2023 Recap: Top 10 cars launched in Malaysia

The year 2023 was an outstanding year for the Malaysian automotive industry as several carmakers introduced their latest models. From brand-new additions to upgraded generations of beloved cars, local auto enthusiasts were treated to a series of highly-anticipated and thrilling launches. Here, we curated a list of the top 10 car launches of 2023, have a look -

Proton S70

Proton added a brand-new sedan to its lineup this year, called the S70. The automaker calls it a C-segment sedan and positioned it above the B-segment Persona. Compared to the Honda City, it is 85 mm longer and 72 mm wider. The S70 is a rebadged version of the Geely Emgrand and comes in four variants - Executive, Premium, Flagship, and Flagship X, priced between RM 73,800 and RM 94,800. All are powered by a 1.5-litre turbo MPI three-cylinder that kicks out a maximum power of 150 PS and a peak torque of 226 Nm. The sedan also comes fitted with the latest safety systems and seamless connectivity.

New Honda CR-V

Honda Malaysia launched the sixth-generation CR-V in December this year setting new standards in the crossover segment. The latest model has grown in size and boasts a rugged design with a large hexagonal grille and other design enhancements. It also benefits from an upgraded Honda Sensing system, 12-speaker Bose audio system, Honda Connect, 360° Camera, and new 18-inch alloy wheels. The new CR-V is offered in four variants - S, E, V, and RS; the first three are powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder while the RS features an Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive mild-hybrid system with a 2.0-litre NA Atkinson-cycle engine. The price starts at RM 159,900.

Chery Omoda 5

The Chinese automaker Chery made its highly-awaited comeback to Malaysia in July. It launched two models; one of which is a B-segment SUV, the Omoda 5 that competes with the Proton X50 and Honda HR-V. It is offered in two locally-assembled variants - C and H, priced at RM 108,800 and RM 118,800. Both trims are powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four engine tuned to generate 156 PS and 230 Nm. The SUV received an overwhelming response from customers because of its "Art in Motion" design language, a fully loaded cabin, and competitive price tag.

Chery Tiggo 8 Pro

Another Chery SUV that made its way to Malaysia is the seven-seater Tiggo 8 Pro. It is locally assembled at Inokom's facility in Kedah and comes in a single Luxury variant, priced at RM 159,800. The striking exterior of the SUV features a “galaxy”-inspired front grille, illuminated logo, and all-around LED lights. The premium-looking interior comes packed with several creature comforts. Under the hood, the Tiggo 8 Pro carries a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that kicks out a maximum power of 256 hp and a peak torque of 390 Nm. It rivals the likes of the Mazda CX-8, Kia Sorento, Proton X90, and Toyota Innova Zenix.

Honda WR-V

Honda also introduced a brand-new B-segment SUV this year, called the WR-V (Winsome Runabout Vehicle). This locally-assembled SUV has a compact and well-proportioned exterior design and a spacious and well-appointed cabin. Like other Honda cars, it also comes in four trims - S, E, V, and RS, priced between RM 89,900 and RM 107,900. All the variants are powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder naturally-aspirated DOHC engine that kicks out 121 PS of maximum power and 145 Nm of peak torque. The power is sent to the wheels via a continuously variable transmission.

Proton X90

Proton introduced one more brand-new model in 2023 i.e. the X90. It is a big brother to the X50 and X70 SUVs and marks the brand’s entry into the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) market. The three-row SUV comes in four variants - Standard, Executive, Premium, and Flagship with two captain chairs in the second row exclusively available on the range-topping variant. Based on the Geely Haoyue/Okavango, the SUV boasts a head-turning exterior and an inviting cabin kitted with hi-tech systems. As for mechanicals, it gets a 48V mild hybrid system comprising a 1.5-litre three-cylinder TGDI engine and a Belt Starter Generator. The Proton X90 price ranges from RM 123,800 to RM 152,800.

New Toyota Vios

UMW Toyota introduced the fourth-generation Vios in March this year. The generation upgrade brings on board the new Daihatsu New Global Architecture platform, a new CVT gearbox, several design enhancements, and new comfort and safety features. The new Vios comes in two trims - E and G, priced at RM 89,600 and RM 96,000, respectively. Both trims come equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated Dual-VVT-i engine delivering a maximum power of 106 PS and a peak torque of 138 Nm.

Toyota Innova Zenix

Toyota also brought the fully-imported Innova Zenix to the local shores in June this year. The latest model is the third-generation Innova that bears the “Zenix” suffix to its name. It underpins a new Toyota New Global Architecture with a monocoque structure and is longer and wider than its predecessor. The MPV comes in two variants - V and HEV, the former is powered by a 2.0-litre Dynamic Force naturally aspirated inline-four engine while the latter runs on a hybrid system combining the same engine and an electric motor. The price ranges from RM 165,000 to RM 202,000. Make note that the second-gen locally-assembled Innova continues to be sold alongside the new Innova Zenix.

New Perodua Axia

The all-new second-generation Perodua Axia hit the roads in February this year. Compared to the outgoing model, the upgraded hatchback offers a slew of upgrades making the country’s beloved Perodua hatchback even more desirable. This modern entry-level is offered in four variants - G, X, SE, and AV, all powered by a 1.0-litre naturally aspirated engine producing 67 horsepower and 91 Nm of torque. Sending power to the wheels is a new D-CVT gearbox. The new Perodua Axia price begins at RM 38,600 and goes all the way to RM 49,500.

Hyundai Creta

Hyundai expanded its lineup in Malaysia with the launch of a B-segment SUV, known as Creta. It is offered in a sole 1.5 Plus variant fully imported model from Indonesia at a starting price of RM 149,888. The Hyundai Creta looks sensuous and sporty and reflects a fun-loving driving personality. It comes kitted with connected technology and comprehensive active safety features. In terms of mechanical bits, it equips a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated Smartstream engine that is good for making 115 horsepower and 144 Nm of torque. The power is transmitted to the front wheels via Intelligent Variable Transmission paired with steering paddles.

So, those were the top 10 cars launched in Malaysia in 2023. Which of these impressed you the most? Let us know in the comments.

Also read: 2023 Recap: Top 10 EVs launched in Malaysia