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Zeekr 9X PHEV SUV Debuts in China with 1,381hp and Up to 1,250km Range

Geely’s premium brand Zeekr has unveiled its latest flagship, the Zeekr 9X, in China—a full-size plug-in hybrid SUV packing some jaw-dropping numbers. Launched on September 29, the 9X comes with as much as 1,381hp, advanced air suspension, and a claimed mixed driving range of up to 1,250km.

The reception has been explosive: during its presale, the brand racked up more than 42,000 orders within the first hour.

For context, Zeekr was introduced in 2021 as Geely’s luxury battery-electric brand, but this year marks a big pivot. The company has shifted its strategy to include plug-in hybrids, with the 9X being the first of its kind. Positioned as a halo model, it shows how seriously Zeekr intends to compete in the high-end SUV space.

Measuring 5,239mm long, 2,029mm wide and 1,819mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3,169mm, the 9X is actually longer and wider than a Mercedes-Benz GLS. The design follows current Chinese luxury trends with C-shaped LED headlights, a bold grille, and active air intake shutters.

At the back, there’s a large circular taillight unit, and the SUV sits on 22-inch alloys available in different designs. Buyers can choose from five exterior colours: black, white, silver, grey and purple.

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Could Malaysia See a 2026 Toyota Hilux with Standard 2.8-L Turbo-Diesel and Mild-Hybrid?

The Toyota Hilux has long been a familiar sight on Malaysian roads, whether it’s serving as a rugged workhorse for businesses or doubling as a reliable family and lifestyle truck. Toyota Malaysia markets it with the usual emphasis on toughness, durability, and a servicing network that stretches across the country—qualities that explain why it continues to be one of the best-selling pickups in the market.

But if recent leaks from Australia are anything to go by, the next-generation Hilux due in 2026 could be very different from what Malaysians are used to. Documents filed for homologation reveal changes that point to a more powerful and tech-laden truck, though they may come with higher costs and fewer body style options.

According to Drive, the filings, listed under new “GUN2” model codes (the current Hilux runs under “GUN1”), suggest a major reshuffle in the powertrain line-up. Central to this is the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, which could become the standard across the range.

In contrast, the 2.7-litre petrol engine looks set to be dropped, particularly from the lower trims. Another notable omission could be the extra-cab body style, leaving buyers with only single-cab and double-cab choices.

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Toyota and Mazda Reportedly Teaming Up on Next-Generation MX-5 and GR86

Japan’s leading car magazine Best Car has reported that Toyota and Mazda may be co-developing the next generation of the Mazda MX-5 and Toyota GR86. If true, the collaboration would mark a major shift in Toyota’s sports car strategy and ensure the continued future of two of the world’s best-known affordable performance cars.

Toyota and Mazda first entered into a formal partnership in 2015, later strengthening it into a capital alliance in 2017. Beyond vehicle supply arrangements, the two companies have collaborated on electric vehicles and software-defined vehicle development.

Best Car’s October issue notes that the close ties between Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda and Mazda President Masahiro Moro have helped strengthen the relationship. Both executives are long-time drivers with experience in competitive racing, which has shaped their shared perspective on building sports cars.

The MX-5 holds a unique position in the global car industry. Since its introduction in 1989, it has been the world’s best-selling roadster and a catalyst for other two-seat sports cars such as the Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, and Audi TT. Meanwhile, the GR86 has carried Toyota’s reputation in the affordable sports coupe segment, originally developed in partnership with Subaru.

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Chery Malaysia Prepares to Launch TIGGO 7 and TIGGO 8 Plug-in Hybrids – Bookings Open

Chery Malaysia is gearing up to expand its line-up with the arrival of two new plug-in hybrid SUVs – the TIGGO 7 PHEV and the TIGGO 8 PHEV. Both models will feature the brand’s latest Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) technology, which blends efficiency, performance, and safety in a package designed to appeal to Malaysian drivers.

The timing of these new models fits neatly with the government’s ongoing push for greener mobility, backed by policies such as the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), the National Automotive Policy (NAP), and the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR). By introducing these hybrids, Chery is aligning its efforts with the country’s plans to move towards cleaner and more energy-efficient vehicles while encouraging industrial transformation in the automotive sector.

At the heart of both SUVs is Chery’s dedicated hybrid system, which brings together three major components. The first is the latest ACTECO 1.5 TGDi fifth-generation engine, which boasts a thermal efficiency of 44.5%, helping to deliver both fuel savings and strong power.

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Allianz Rolls Out Cash Rewards for Low-Mileage EV Drivers

Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad has introduced a new way for electric vehicle (EV) owners to turn their green habits into extra cash. Through its newly launched Allianz EV EcoMiles programme, policyholders who drive fewer kilometres in their Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) will be rewarded with up to 15% of their insurance premiums back in cash.

The programme is available to those who insure their BEVs under the Allianz Private Car Comprehensive policy for private use. Once activated via the MyAllianz app, customers can start earning tangible rewards simply by driving less.

Allianz General’s Chief Executive Officer, Sean Wang, said the idea behind EcoMiles was to back customers who have already made the switch to electric by recognising their eco-friendly driving habits. He explained that driving a BEV is already a step towards lowering carbon emissions, and with EcoMiles, those who use their cars sparingly—whether working from home or just driving on weekends—will be rewarded even more.

The initiative is designed to encourage sustainable lifestyles while giving something back to drivers who contribute to reducing their carbon footprint. According to Allianz, customers driving up to 10,000 kilometres per year will receive 15% of their net basic premium as cash, while those covering between 10,001 and 15,000 kilometres will get 10%. The net basic premium refers to the premium amount after the No Claim Discount (NCD) has been deducted.

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MACC Probes Alleged Irregularities in Malaysia’s Tyre Industry

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has launched a probe into possible misconduct within the tyre industry, with investigators said to be looking at issues ranging from suspected price manipulation to the importation of unsafe tyres.

According to a report by Berita Harian, the investigation is centred on the annual import of up to 300 containers of tyres. Some of these tyres are believed to be unsuitable for local road conditions, raising concerns about public safety.

At the heart of the probe is an estimated RM70 million in lost government revenue each year. This shortfall is linked to unpaid import duties, which include a 40% tariff on tyres shipped in from non-Asean Free Trade Area (AFTA) countries and a 10% Sales and Service Tax (SST). Authorities believe roughly 100,000 heavy vehicle tyres brought into Malaysia annually may have bypassed these duties.

When asked about the matter, MACC’s Special Operations Division senior director, Datuk Mohamad Zamri Zainul Abidin, confirmed that the commission is investigating but declined to disclose further details.

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