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New Volvo EX90 and Updated XC90 SUVs Launched in Malaysia – Prices Start at RM418,888

Volvo Car Malaysia has unveiled its latest flagship electric SUV, the Volvo EX90, marking a significant milestone in the brand’s electrification journey. Introduced in the high-spec Ultra Twin variant, the EX90 is touted as Volvo’s most advanced and safest vehicle to date, offering cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, and premium Scandinavian design.

The EX90 represents several industry firsts for Volvo. It is the company’s first model equipped with built-in lidar technology and the first to be entirely software-driven, laying the foundation for future full autonomous driving. Designed with efficiency in mind, its aerodynamic profile incorporates features such as flush glazing and integrated door handles, contributing to a low drag coefficient of 0.29 without compromising its robust SUV stance.

Powered by dual motors and Performance all-wheel drive software, the EX90 Ultra Twin produces 517hp and 910Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds. Its energy comes from a 111 kWh lithium-ion NMC battery (107 kWh usable), which provides a WLTP-certified range of up to 623km. Ultra-fast DC charging allows the battery to be replenished from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes.

Inside, the EX90 offers a refined, spacious cabin inspired by the principles of Scandinavian design. It features a laminated panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera system with 3D visualisation, and a powered tailgate. Four-zone climate control and third-row folding seats add practicality to its luxury-focused offering. The Ultra variant further elevates the experience with active air suspension, massage-equipped front seats with power side bolsters, soft-close doors, and 21-inch Aero wheels. Laminated side and rear windows enhance both insulation and comfort.

Customers may select from four exterior colours: Onyx Black, Crystal White, Vapour Grey, and the newly introduced Sand Dune. Interior options include Charcoal or Cardamom Nordico upholstery, paired with sustainably sourced FSC™-certified Birch wood trim.

Volvo has placed a strong emphasis on safety with the EX90, declaring it the safest vehicle it has ever produced. The Safe Space Technology suite integrates lidar, radar, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras to provide a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings. The system supports advanced collision prevention with automatic steering and braking, alongside Pilot Assist with Lane Change Assist. A Driver Understanding System monitors driver alertness and can bring the vehicle to a stop in emergencies, while Occupant Sensing technology detects children or pets left inside. Additional features include door opening alerts to protect pedestrians and cyclists, and adaptive headlights with 1.3 million pixels per module for precision lighting.

Cabin comfort has also been redefined. The ultra-quiet interior benefits from laminated acoustic glass and comprehensive sound insulation, while a Bowers & Wilkins 25-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos ensures an immersive listening experience. Orthopaedic-style seating, ventilation, and massage functions provide long-distance comfort, and SunLike LED lighting reduces eye strain by mimicking natural daylight. The vehicle’s advanced air purification system filters over 95% of PM2.5 particulates and more than 97% of airborne viruses. A one-pedal drive mode improves control and energy regeneration, and digital key technology enables access through a smartphone or smartwatch, automatically loading the driver’s personalised settings.

The Volvo EX90 is priced at RM442,888 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM442,648 in Sabah and Sarawak. It comes with five years of complimentary digital services, an eight-year high-voltage battery warranty, unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, and 24-hour roadside assistance. The first 50 customers will receive a complimentary wallbox charger and sunshade package worth RM5,000.

Updated Volvo XC90 Also Makes Its Debut

Alongside the launch of the EX90, Volvo Car Malaysia also introduced the refreshed 2025 Volvo XC90, aimed at customers who prefer plug-in hybrid or mild hybrid options. The new XC90 features updated styling, a redesigned dashboard, and expanded digital interfaces, including an 11.2-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital driver cluster, and a head-up display.

The Ultra T8 Plug-in Hybrid variant offers 462hp and 709Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in 5.3 seconds while achieving an impressive fuel consumption of 1.8L/100km. The Ultra B5 Mild Hybrid delivers 263 hp and 390 Nm of torque, with a 0–100 km/h time of 7.7 seconds.

Standard features across both variants include a panoramic sunroof, ventilated Nappa leather seats with memory and massage functions, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, four-zone climate control, and Pilot Assist with adaptive cruise control. Customers can choose from colours including Onyx Black, Crystal White, Vapour Grey, and Denim Blue, complemented by Charcoal Grey Ash wood interior décor.

Pricing for the updated XC90 remains unchanged. The Ultra T8 is priced at RM434,888 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM434,457 in Sabah and Sarawak. The B5 Mild Hybrid is available at RM418,888 and RM418,457, respectively.

Bookings and test drives for both the Volvo EX90 and the updated XC90 are now available at authorised Volvo Car dealerships nationwide and through the official Volvo Car Malaysia website.

Bermaz Unveils Striking Mazda3 Concept Prototype

Bermaz Motor Trading Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles in Malaysia, has lifted the covers on an eye-catching new prototype, the Mazda3 Concept, at the Bermaz Auto Showcase. Developed by the company’s dedicated MazdaSports Division, the concept pays homage to the original Mazda3 MS Edition introduced in 2016, while charting a bold new direction for the brand’s approach to design and driver-focused innovation.

Reviving the spirit of the original MS Edition — which was engineered to reignite the passion of Mazda enthusiasts with its sporty character — the 2025 Mazda3 Concept goes several steps further. It redefines the Jinba-Ittai philosophy of unity between car and driver through a more aggressive evolution of the Kodo design language, and a series of enhancements that reflect Bermaz’s commitment to personalised, performance-oriented vehicles.

Visually, the Mazda3 Concept commands attention. It rides on Enkei Tuning SC22 wheels finished in Matte Gunmetal, contributing not only to its assertive stance but also enhancing handling characteristics that align with Mazda’s dynamic driving ethos. Braking performance is significantly elevated through the use of Endless Super Street S-Sports Brake Pads, which offer improved stability under pressure, high fade resistance, and everyday comfort — underscoring the concept’s suitability for discerning drivers who value control and confidence.

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Stellantis Faces Crisis as Tariffs Hit Alfa Romeo and Maserati Hard

Stellantis is in troubled waters. After a year marked by declining sales and falling revenue, the company is now grappling with the abrupt resignation of CEO Carlos Tavares. 2024 was meant to be a rebuilding year, but with steep U.S. tariffs now firmly in place under former President Trump’s renewed policies, things could soon spiral further out of control.

Among the most vulnerable brands under Stellantis are Alfa Romeo and Maserati, both of which are struggling to survive in a hostile market. In response to the escalating crisis, Stellantis has reportedly brought in management consulting giant McKinsey & Company to assess the situation, with a specific focus on the impact of tariffs.

A Stellantis spokesperson told Automotive News Europe that McKinsey was “asked to provide its considerations” for the two marques, though no further details were provided. Still, the move suggests that drastic changes may be on the horizon.

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Proton Records Strong Q1 Growth with EV and ICE Sales Boosting Market Share

Proton has reported a robust close to the first quarter of 2025, buoyed by a sharp rebound in March sales that saw 13,918 units registered. This marks a 23.9% increase over February’s performance and a 9.6% improvement compared to the same month last year. The figures position Proton’s estimated market share at 19.4%, based on a Total Industry Volume (TIV) of 71,596 units for March.

Over the course of the first three months of 2025, Proton recorded total sales of 35,068 units, securing a market share of 18.9% against a TIV of 184,652 units. The company’s performance has been bolstered by strong demand across its product range, growing export contributions, and the positive reception of its new energy models. Leading this charge is the Proton e.MAS 7, which has quickly become Malaysia’s top-selling electric vehicle within its first quarter on the market.

The brand’s internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles also delivered encouraging results. Notably, the Proton S70 retained its lead in the C-segment sedan category with March sales of 2,125 units, up 77.5% from the previous month, bringing its year-to-date (YTD) total to 4,465 units. The model’s strong showing reflects its appeal to a broad consumer base, combining sporty design, refined performance, and a spacious, technology-laden interior suited for both individuals and families.

The larger X90, Proton’s flagship D-segment SUV, maintained its dominance in its segment with a 73.6% increase in sales over February, delivering 302 units in March and pushing its YTD figure to 679 units. Despite this, the X50 continued to be Proton’s best-selling SUV with 1,858 units sold in March, bringing its quarterly total to 5,117 units.

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Berjaya Assets and Jetour Malaysia Forge Strategic CKD Partnership

In a landmark move set to reshape Malaysia’s automotive landscape, Berjaya Corporation Bhd’s Founder and Advisor, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Vincent Tan Chee Yioun, joined Mr. Ke Chuandeng, Vice President of Jetour Auto, to officiate the signing of a strategic agreement between Berjaya Assembly Sdn Bhd (a wholly owned subsidiary of Berjaya Assets Bhd) and Jetour Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone, focusing on Completely Knocked Down (CKD) projects and the introduction of Jetour’s next-generation vehicles to the Malaysian market. The agreement is poised to catalyse local assembly operations and position Malaysia as a key hub for Jetour’s expansion across Southeast Asia.

Advancing Industry 4.0 Manufacturing

Central to the partnership is a shared commitment to Industry 4.0 principles, incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics into the manufacturing ecosystem. This integration aims to optimise productivity, boost flexibility, and support Malaysia’s ambitions to become a leader in smart, sustainable automotive manufacturing.

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Jetour Enters Malaysian Market with Launch of All-New Dashing SUV – Pricing Starts From RM109,800!

Jetour Malaysia has officially marked its debut in the country’s competitive automotive landscape with the unveiling of the all-new Dashing SUV, introduced in an elegant launch ceremony at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

The Dashing represents Jetour’s first foray into Malaysia’s SUV segment, embodying a contemporary design philosophy, refined features, and a commitment to delivering high-value mobility solutions tailored to Malaysian preferences.

Crafted as a five-seater SUV with striking proportions, the Dashing features a sleek 3D coupe fastback silhouette measuring 4,590mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,685mm in height, slightly smaller than a Proton X70.

Among the Dashing’s standout exterior highlights are intelligent invisible sensing door handles that extend upon detecting the smart key, enhancing both aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal. Split matrix LED headlamps offer intelligent illumination, automatically activating 100 metres before tunnel entrances, and include adjustable height settings along with follow-me-home functionality. Meanwhile, the ‘Mecha-Eyes’ inspired daytime running lights and checkered flag-themed rear lights reinforce the SUV’s futuristic and sporty styling cues.

The Dashing is equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels designed to provide superior road grip and stability, contributing to assured driving across varying road conditions. Enhancing the open-cabin atmosphere is a panoramic 75-inch sunroof, offering a connection to the outdoors while preserving the comfort expected of a premium SUV.

Inside, Jetour has employed a minimalist yet intelligent approach to cabin design. Customers can choose between two elegant interior colour schemes — off-white or a dual-tone black and red finish. The interior omits the conventional centre rear hump, ensuring optimal comfort even for passengers seated in the middle. The boot space is tailored to accommodate leisure equipment such as camping gear or outdoor BBQ sets, underlining the vehicle’s lifestyle appeal.

A key technological highlight is the intelligent voice command system, which enables control over various functions including climate settings, windows, navigation, and entertainment. The system features position-specific voice recognition, enhancing convenience and interaction.

Comfort and wellness have also been prioritised. The cabin air is filtered through a CN95-level purification system, delivering clean, allergen-free air to all occupants. Higher trim levels benefit from customisable ambient lighting, while dedicated rear air vents ensure consistent temperature control throughout the vehicle.

The electrically powered tailgate is both programmable and equipped with anti-pinch safety features, and connectivity options include wireless smartphone charging, along with seamless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Jetour has embedded a comprehensive suite of safety technologies into the Dashing, including blind spot detection using millimetre wave radar, which becomes active at speeds above 15 km/h. The SUV also features lane change warnings, rear cross traffic alert systems, and door opening warnings to protect occupants from oncoming vehicles.

Under the bonnet, the Dashing is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 156PS and 230Nm of torque. This powertrain delivers responsive urban acceleration and composed highway cruising, catering to everyday driving demands.

The Dashing will be offered in two variants — Comfort and Prime — with the Comfort variant priced at RM109,800, and the Prime variant goes for RM116,800. Both variants will be available in five exterior finishes: Carbon Black, Khaki White, Aurora Green, Phantom Grey, and Hematite Red. These are complemented by dual-tone interior treatments with red accents.

Standard packaging will include five times free service, seven years/150,000km vehicle warranty coverage and 10 years/1,000,000km engine warranty coverage. Additionally, the first 500 customers get a RM2,000 cash rebate.

In preparation for its Malaysian rollout, Jetour has already established more than 30 sales and service outlets across the country, with over 30 additional 3S and 4S centres set to open by the end of 2025. These centres will span both Peninsular and East Malaysia, including key regions such as Selangor, Penang, Johor, Sabah, Sarawak, Melaka, Seremban, and Ipoh. The company has also committed to a nationwide spare parts inventory to ensure dependable after-sales support.

The All-New Jetour Dashing will be available for viewing and purchase at all authorised Jetour showrooms nationwide beginning April 2025, setting the stage for what promises to be a dynamic new chapter in Malaysia’s SUV market.