Jaecoo Malaysia is reinforcing its presence as a challenger SUV brand with the preview of the Jaecoo J8, the fourth model to join its expanding portfolio. The J8, a premium off-road SUV, is designed to offer a combination of style, luxury, and high-performance capabilities tailored for the Malaysian market.
Power and Performance
The Jaecoo J8 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection inline-four engine, producing 246hp and 385Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and features twin exhaust pipes, delivering enhanced efficiency and performance.
Variants and Capabilities
The J8 will be available in two variants: the Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) model configured as a five-seater and the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model, which offers a six-seater layout. Designed to handle both urban and off-road environments, the J8 AWD variant is equipped with Jaecoo’s Continuous Damping Control (CDC) technology for enhanced suspension performance. Additionally, it boasts a 450mm wading depth, making it well-suited for rugged terrains.
Interior and Features
The Jaecoo J8 offers a spacious and luxurious interior with advanced technological features. The 2WD model provides a boot capacity of 738 liters, while the AWD variant offers 200 liters. Both variants come equipped with a 12.3-inch media display and a 540-degree panoramic camera, along with variant-specific premium features.
The J8 2WD is fitted with a 12-speaker Sony sound system, six airbags, ambient lighting, and faux leather upholstery. Meanwhile, the AWD variant upgrades to a 14-speaker Sony sound system with headrest speakers, 10 airbags, power doors, and an automatic fragrance system.
Advanced Technology and Comfort
The SUV incorporates NFC (Near Field Communication) technology for seamless keyless entry. The driver’s seat is ventilated, ensuring greater comfort during long drives. Additionally, driver visibility and safety are enhanced with a built-in digital video recorder (DVR) and auto-park capabilities. To further elevate passenger comfort, both the front and second-row seats in the J8 are electronically adjustable with massage functionality and curtain shades. The AWD variant also features genuine leather upholstery and suede panel trimmings for a more refined experience.
Pricing and Availability
The Jaecoo J8 2WD is estimated to be priced around RM195,000, while the AWD six-seater variant is expected to be available at approximately RM220,000. The 2WD model is offered in single-tone colour options, including Carbon Crystal Black, Khaki White, and Olive Grey, while the AWD variant features dual-tone versions of the same colours.
Jaecoo J8 Preview Roadshow
Jaecoo Malaysia is showcasing its latest technology, including its Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) advancements, at the Jaecoo J8 Preview Roadshow. The event, held from 27 March to 31 March at the 1Utama Shopping Centre (GF Luxe), allows visitors to explore the J8 firsthand. Following this, the roadshow will move to Queensbay Mall in Penang from 9 April to 13 April and later appear at the Malaysian Autoshow from 8 May to 15 May. Interested buyers can register their interest at these events.
With the introduction of the Jaecoo J8, the brand continues to solidify its position in Malaysia’s competitive SUV market, offering consumers a sophisticated blend of off-road capability and premium comfort.
BYD has officially launched its new flagship plug-in hybrid SUV, the Denza N9, in China, with prices ranging between 389,800 and 449,800 yuan (approximately RM253,370 to RM292,370). The SUV introduces BYD’s cutting-edge e3 “Yisanfang” technology, which enhances manoeuvrability with features such as crab walking, tank turns, and stability control at speeds of up to 180 km/h in the event of a tyre burst.
The Denza N9 is available in four exterior colours—black, silver, grey, and green. It measures 5,258 mm in length, 2,030 mm in width, and 1,830 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,125 mm. A panoramic sunroof, spanning 3.2 square meters, extends across all three rows, offering an open and spacious cabin experience.
Built on BYD’s e-Platform 3.0, the N9 is powered by a tri-motor system that includes a front AC asynchronous motor and two rear permanent magnet synchronous motors. The front motor delivers 268hp and 315Nm of torque, while the rear motor produces 322hp and 360Nm of torque. This system is paired with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that generates 204hp and 325Nm of torque. The SUV is equipped with a 46.9 kWh Blade battery pack, which provides a pure electric range of 202km under the CLTC cycle and a combined range of 1,302 km. With a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 3.9 seconds, the Denza N9 is one of the quickest SUVs in its segment. The vehicle has a minimum turning radius of 4.65 metres, while fast charging capabilities enable a 30% to 80% charge in just 19 minutes.
Toyota dan Subaru bersedia untuk memperkenalkan dua model SUV elektrik kompak baharu menjelang tahun 2026, sekali gus memperkukuh kerjasama mereka dalam industri kenderaan elektrik (EV) yang semakin berkembang. Kedua-dua syarikat sebelum ini telah bekerjasama dalam pembangunan Toyota bZ4X dan Subaru Solterra, dan model terbaharu ini dijangka menarik lebih ramai pengguna dengan reka bentuk yang lebih konvensional.
Berbeza dengan bZ4X dan Solterra yang menampilkan reka bentuk futuristik dan ketinggian rendah, SUV baharu ini dijangka lebih menyerupai Toyota RAV4 generasi akan datang. Beberapa sumber industri menyatakan bahawa model ini mungkin akan menampilkan bahagian hadapan yang lebih tajam, rel bumbung yang lebih menonjol serta reka bentuk belakang yang lebih tegak. Walaupun Toyota dan Subaru akan berkongsi platform dan komponen utama, setiap model akan menerima penggayaan bahagian hadapan yang berbeza untuk mengekalkan identiti jenama masing-masing.
SUV baharu ini akan dibangunkan menggunakan platform e-TNGA Toyota, yang turut digunakan dalam barisan kenderaan elektrik syarikat itu. Dengan berkongsi seni bina ini, kedua-dua pengeluar dapat menggunakan pek bateri, motor elektrik dan komponen utama yang sama, sekali gus mengurangkan kos pengeluaran dan mempercepatkan pembangunan. Pendekatan ini membolehkan Toyota dan Subaru memberi tumpuan kepada pembangunan projek EV lain sambil mengekalkan daya saing dalam segmen SUV kompak.
Volvo Car Malaysia kini menerima tempahan untuk Volvo EX90 dan XC90 baharu, dua model SUV tujuh tempat duduk yang bakal menyertai rangkaian model elektrifikasi Volvo.
Malaysia merupakan antara pasaran pertama di Asia Pasifik yang memperkenalkan Volvo EX90 selepas pelancarannya di Thailand tahun lalu. Untuk pasaran tempatan, harga runcit bagi kedua-dua model ini dijangka sekitar RM450,000, dengan perincian mengenai varian dan spesifikasi akan diumumkan kemudian.
Volvo EX90 ialah model elektrik sepenuhnya pertama Volvo dengan konfigurasi tujuh tempat duduk untuk pasaran global. Sebagai SUV paling premium Volvo, ia menetapkan penanda aras baharu dengan seni bina pengkomputeran teras, teknologi keselamatan terkini di dalam dan luar kenderaan, serta keupayaan perisian yang akan terus berkembang sepanjang pemilikan.
Volvo Car Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the Volvo EX90 and the newly updated XC90, two flagship seven-seater SUVs set to expand the brand’s electrified lineup in the country.
Malaysia is among the first markets in the Asia Pacific region to introduce the Volvo EX90 following its initial launch in Thailand last year. Retail prices for both models are expected to be around RM450,000, with detailed specifications and trim levels to be announced at a later date.
The Volvo EX90 marks the brand’s first fully electric, seven-seater SUV designed for global markets. Positioned as Volvo’s most advanced SUV, it features a core compute architecture, cutting-edge safety technologies both inside and outside the vehicle, and a software-driven system that continuously enhances its capabilities throughout its lifespan. The EX90 offers more than 600km of electric range, accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in under five seconds, and is equipped with a Bowers & Wilkins High Fidelity audio system. It also provides a spacious seven-seater cabin with powered folding seats, allowing for expanded luggage space at the touch of a button.
Great Wall Motor (GWM) China secara rasmi melancarkan SUV hibrid plug-in generasi kedua, Haval Xiaolong Max, yang menampilkan reka bentuk luaran serba baharu serta dilengkapi dengan sistem bantuan pemanduan termaju, Coffee Pilot Plus.
SUV ini menerapkan falsafah reka bentuk “rhythmic natural aesthetics,” yang memberikan penampilan moden dan sofistikated. Lampu hadapan kenderaan ini diperkaya dengan 72 kristal LED, menghasilkan kecerahan sehingga 4,000 lumen dengan jarak pencahayaan mencapai 190 meter. Model ini turut hadir dengan lima pilihan warna menarik: Aurora Green, Distant Mountain Grey, Canglang Blue, Ice Crystal White dan Phantom Night Black.
Bahagian belakang kenderaan menampilkan reka bentuk lampu belakang “Bright Galaxy” yang diinspirasikan daripada Bima Sakti. Dengan lebih 30,000 permukaan pemantul kristal dan 332 LED lampu merah super yang beroperasi pada 628 nm, ia menampilkan pencahayaan yang menawan. Dari sudut sisi, Xiaolong Max generasi kedua mengekalkan reka bentuk bumbung terapung dan rim bersaiz 19 inci, yang diinspirasikan daripada bentuk bunga. Pemegang pintu tradisional turut dikekalkan bagi kemudahan pengguna.
Great Wall Motor (GWM) has officially launched the second-generation Haval Xiaolong Max plug-in hybrid SUV, introducing a fresh exterior design and equipping it with the automaker’s self-developed Coffee Pilot Plus advanced driving assistance system.
The latest iteration of the Haval Xiaolong Max embraces the brand’s “rhythmic natural aesthetics” design philosophy, giving the SUV a modern and refined appearance. The headlights incorporate 72 LED crystals, offering an impressive luminosity of 4,000 lumens and an illumination distance of 190 meters. Consumers will have a choice of five exterior colours: Aurora Green, Distant Mountain Gray, Canglang Blue, Ice Crystal White, and Phantom Night Black.
At the rear, the SUV features a distinctive “Bright Galaxy” taillight design, inspired by the Milky Way. The taillights are crafted with over 30,000 crystal reflective surfaces and contain 332 super red-light LEDs operating at 628 nm. From the side profile, the vehicle showcases a floating roof design, complemented by new 19-inch five-spoke petal-shaped rims inspired by flowers. Traditional door handles remain in place.
The Porsche Macan, first introduced in 2014, was born out of Porsche’s ambition to combine the practicality of an SUV with the performance DNA of its iconic sports cars. As the younger sibling to the Cayenne, the Macan was designed to appeal to a new generation of drivers seeking a smaller, more agile luxury SUV without compromising on Porsche’s signature driving dynamics.
The name “Macan” is derived from the Indonesian word for “tiger,” symbolising agility, power, and elegance – qualities that define the vehicle. From the outset, the Macan stood out in the crowded compact SUV market with its sporty design, luxurious interior, and impressive performance. It quickly became a best-seller for Porsche, accounting for a significant portion of the brand’s global sales.
In 2024, Porsche took a bold step by transitioning the Macan to an all-electric platform, marking a new chapter in its history and the Macan Turbo EV is the crown jewel of the lineup.
As Porsche’s first all-electric SUV, the Macan Turbo EV combines the brand’s legendary performance with cutting-edge EV technology, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike.
After a recent drive experience in Malaysia, organised by Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), it’s clear that the Macan Turbo EV is more than just an electric SUV – it’s a statement of Porsche’s commitment to the future of mobility.
A Modern Evolution
The Macan Turbo EV retains Porsche’s iconic design language while embracing a futuristic aesthetic. The coupe-like flyline, split headlight design, and four-point daytime running lights give it a distinctive presence on the road. The optional off-road design package adds a rugged touch, with a modified front bumper for increased approach angles and 21-inch off-road wheels in Vesuvius Grey.
Inside, the cabin is a blend of luxury and technology. The 12.6-inch curved digital instrument cluster, 10.9-inch central touchscreen, and optional 10.9-inch passenger display create a high-tech environment. The augmented reality head-up display and ambient lighting that syncs with the exterior colour further enhance the driving experience. There are physical buttons for your climate control which make things easily accessible and not complicated.
Although, the only thing that annoyed us about this SUV is the gear selector placement because we kept hitting it everytime we reached for the indicator lever.
Performance That Thrills
The Macan Turbo EV is powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that delivers a staggering 639PS and 1,130Nm of torque when overboost is engaged. This translates to a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 260 km/h. These figures put it firmly in supercar territory, yet it retains the practicality and versatility of an SUV.
During the drive experience at Sepang International Circuit, the Macan Turbo EV showcased its agility and precision. The Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) system and adaptive air suspension ensured exceptional handling, even during high-speed manoeuvres. The slalom exercise highlighted the SUV’s sharp steering response, which is 15% more direct than its predecessor, while the kick-plate exercise demonstrated the electronic Porsche Traction Management (ePTM) system’s ability to maintain stability in low-traction scenarios.
Macan 4
Practicality Meets Speed
The Macan Turbo EV is equipped with a 100 kWh NMC battery (95 kWh usable), offering a WLTP-rated range of 591 km. During the drive, the Macan’s efficiency was evident, with ample charge remaining even after a day of spirited driving. The 800V electrical architecture enables ultra-fast DC charging at up to 270 kW, allowing the battery to go from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes. For daily use, an 11 kW AC charger can fully replenish the battery in about 10 hours.
We started the drive from M Resort KL and headed to the Estate at Federal Hill then to Sepang where we did countless rounds of gymkhana and then headed back to the resort all in a single charge. We had a total of 490km of range, so we can confidently say that range anxiety with this is something to not worry about because the total amount of range available for the Macan Turbo EV is 591km.
Driving Experience: From City Streets to the Track
The drive experience began in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, where the Macan Turbo EV effortlessly navigated bustling city streets. Its Power Steering Plus and Surround View with Active Parking Support made tight manoeuvres a breeze, while the four-zone climate control and Bose Surround Sound System ensured a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
On the highway, the Macan Turbo EV’s adaptive air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) provided a smooth and composed ride. The transition to Sepang International Circuit allowed the SUV to stretch its legs, with the rear-axle steering and ePTM system delivering precise handling and stability at high speeds.
In addition to a slalom test, we also carried out a kick plate test. What is a kick plate test you ask? It is a system that features a hydraulic plate that shifts sideways to replicate the sensation of rear-wheel traction loss, enabling drivers to experience controlled skids or spins in a safe training environment. Its low-friction surface accurately simulates hazardous road conditions, such as oil spills or slippery surfaces, providing a realistic scenario for skill development. This tool is specifically designed to help drivers improve their ability to maintain stability and control when faced with sudden loss of grip, equipping them with the confidence and expertise to handle real-world driving challenges effectively.
With the assistance of Porsche Stability Management (PSM), we had no issues controlling the car and getting back to a straight line.
Sustainability Meets Performance
Porsche has always been about performance, but the Macan Turbo EV adds a layer of sustainability. The 100 kWh battery not only delivers impressive range but also supports energy recuperation of up to 200 kW, further enhancing efficiency. Over five years, Porsche estimates that the Macan Turbo EV could reduce 460 metric tons of CO2 emissions, equivalent to planting 7,808 trees.
The Future of Performance SUVs
The Porsche Macan Turbo EV is a masterclass in blending performance, luxury, and sustainability. Its blistering acceleration, precise handling, and cutting-edge technology make it a true Porsche, while its electric powertrain positions it as a leader in the EV space. Whether you’re navigating city streets or pushing the limits on the track, the Macan Turbo EV delivers an exhilarating and refined driving experience.
For those seeking a high-performance SUV that doesn’t compromise on practicality or environmental responsibility, and if you have RM680k laying around, the Macan Turbo EV is a compelling choice.
Volvo has officially introduced the ES90, a new all-electric model that defies traditional vehicle categories. Neither sedan nor SUV, the ES90 stands in a class of its own, though its sleek, elevated design and generous ground clearance suggest strong crossover influences. Regardless of what you call it, Volvo sees the ES90 as a flagship model, sharing top-tier status alongside the EX90 SUV.
At first glance, the ES90 exudes familiar Volvo styling. The front is defined by signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights, while vertical driving lamps and a minimalist grille complete the look. Around back, C-shaped taillights stretch into the sharply sloped rear glass of its hatchback design, which provides easy access to 733 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded (or 495 liters with them upright), plus an additional 48-litre frunk.
Built on the same SPA2 platform as the EX90, the ES90 is slightly longer in wheelbase (310 cm) but shorter overall at 5 meters. With 20.3 cm of ground clearance and a total width of 212 cm, it strikes a balanced profile between sportiness and practicality. Inside, the focus is on spaciousness, offering 10.7 cm of knee clearance and 96 cm of rear headroom for passengers.
The ES90’s interior reflects Volvo’s commitment to minimalism and technology. The centerpiece is a 14.5-inch portrait touchscreen that controls nearly every function, from the four-zone climate system to the premium 25-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system. A slim 9.0-inch digital driver display is mounted ahead of the steering wheel, supported by a head-up display for vital driving information. Beyond a few physical controls on the steering wheel and doors, the cabin is fully digital, with seamless Google integration built-in.
While the ES90 impresses with performance, Volvo emphasizes its computing power just as much. Using dual Nvidia Drive AGX Orin processors, the ES90 can handle over 500 trillion operations per second, supporting advanced safety systems, AI features, and over-the-air updates.
“This allows us to further raise the bar on safety and overall performance through data, software, and AI,” explained Volvo Chief Engineer and Technology Officer Anders Bell.
With its 800-volt architecture, the ES90 is designed for fast charging, supporting rates up to 350 kW. This enables it to recover 300 km of range in just 10 minutes, with a 10-80% charge in as little as 20 minutes. Depending on the version, the ES90 can deliver up to 700 km of range (WLTP), aided by its sleek 0.25 drag coefficient, the best in Volvo’s history.
The ES90 will launch in three configurations: the Single Motor variant, featuring rear-wheel drive, a 329hp output, a 92.0 kWh battery, and up to 644km of range; the Twin Motor variant, offering all-wheel drive, 442hp, a 106.0 kWh battery, and a range of up to 700km; and the Twin Motor Performance variant, which boasts all-wheel drive, 670hp, a 106.0 kWh battery, a 0-97 km/h acceleration time of 3.9 seconds, a top speed of 180 km/h, and a range of up to 700km.
The Volvo ES90 is currently available to order in select European markets. Availability in other markets is expected in the near future, though no official timeline or pricing has been announced.
When it comes to choosing your next family SUV, the array of options available can leave you feeling overwhelmed about which brand and model truly stand out. Especially in these days and age, where a new model hits the market on a near monthly basis.
But to help you make a purchase decision, we are here to tell you that the new Jaecoo J7 Plug-in-Hybrid (PHEV) is one that demands to be experienced firsthand. From its refined driving dynamics to its efficiency, cutting-edge technology and safety features, the J7 PHEV is designed to impress.
Here’s why you should book a test drive today and see for yourself what makes this SUV stand out.
Refinement You Need to Feel to Believe
The Jaecoo J7 PHEV redefines what it means to drive in comfort. Its hybrid powertrain ensures a remarkably smooth and quiet ride, whether you’re cruising on the highway or navigating city streets. The absence of engine noise and vibrations when driving in EV mode creates a serene driving environment that you truly need to experience to appreciate.
Unmatched Efficiency for Long-Distance Travel
One of the standout features of the J7 PHEV is its exceptional fuel efficiency and impressive range. Powered by a 1.5-litre hybrid-specific engine, this SUV prioritises fuel economy without compromising performance.
In fact, the J7 PHEV recently proved its endurance by completing a 1,200 km journey from Singapore to Hat Yai, Thailand, on a single charge. This remarkable feat highlights its capability as a reliable companion for road trips, offering significant fuel savings and reducing your carbon footprint.
It also takes away any range anxiety and allows you to go on spontaneous trips at any time without worrying about recharging as you can rely on the internal combustion engine to get you to your destination.
Power That Excites
Don’t let its focus on efficiency fool you – the J7 PHEV delivers impressive power when you need it. The hybrid powertrain provides a seamless blend of electric and petrol power, offering a responsive and exhilarating driving experience. With 342hp and 525Nm of torque, it’s built for both daily commutes and long journeys. Whether you’re overtaking on the highway, getting up to speed or simply love to feel the gentle shove into the seat, the J7 PHEV’s performance will leave you impressed.
Spaciousness Your Family Will Love
Bring your family along for the test drive and let them experience the J7 PHEV’s spacious interior. With ample legroom, headroom, and a 500-litre boot capacity (expandable to 1,265 litres with the rear seats folded), this SUV is perfect for family adventures. Despite housing a large battery pack, Jaecoo has cleverly optimised space, ensuring practicality without compromise.
Safety Features That Watch Over You
Safety is at the core of the Jaecoo J7 PHEV. Equipped with advanced driver assistance systems, this SUV is designed to keep you and your loved ones protected. Features like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centring Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring ensure that the J7 PHEV always has an eye on the road.
Additional safety highlights include:
Intelligent Evasion System (IES) for avoiding collisions
Rear Cross Traffic Alert with automatic braking
Driver Attention Monitoring to prevent fatigue
Eight airbags and a 360-degree camera system for all-around protection
Cutting-Edge Technology for a Connected Drive
The J7 PHEV is packed with tech features that enhance convenience and entertainment. The 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 14.8-inch portrait infotainment touchscreen provide a modern and intuitive interface. With wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, Qi wireless charging, and an eight-speaker Sony sound system, every journey is as enjoyable as it is connected.
Peace of Mind with Comprehensive Warranties
The J7 PHEV is priced at RM158,800, a figure that makes it an absolute steal considering the premium features and advanced technology it offers, especially when compared to its competitors in the market.
In addition to that, Jaecoo backs the J7 PHEV with confidence, offering a seven-year engine warranty (up to 150,000 km) and an eight-year warranty on the battery, power motor, and controller unit (up to 160,000 km). The battery warranty even includes a 1-to-1 exchange if its state of health (SOH) falls below 70% during the warranty period.
The Jaecoo J7 PHEV is more than just an SUV—it’s a statement of refinement, efficiency, and innovation. From its spacious interior and powerful hybrid engine to its advanced safety features and cutting-edge technology, this vehicle is designed to exceed expectations.
Don’t just take our word for it. Book a test drive today and experience the Jaecoo J7 PHEV for yourself. Bring your family along, keep an eye on the fuel consumption, and feel the power and safety features in action. Once you drive it, you’ll understand why the J7 PHEV is the better choice for modern families.
