Top upcoming car launches in Malaysia for 2025: Proton, Citroen, Jaecoo, eMAS PHEV

As 2024 winds down, our gaze naturally shifts to the horizon, scanning for what’s next in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.

This year has been nothing short of electrifying for Malaysia, with EVs taking center stage and Chinese automakers making a resounding statement.

Initially greeted with cautious curiosity, these brands have shattered stereotypes, proving they’re no longer the underdogs. 

 

With cutting-edge technology, solid build quality, plush comfort, and even a touch of luxury, these vehicles are redefining what it means to be a “Chinese car.” They’ve not only shown up but are here to stay, setting a high bar for all newcomers.

Looking ahead, 2025 promises an even more dynamic lineup, with a mix of continued Chinese dominance and exciting debuts from heritage brands we’ve missed.

It’s a year set to be brimming with innovation, nostalgia, and plenty of surprises. Let’s dive into the most anticipated car launches of 2025 and explore why each of these vehicles has us buzzing with excitement.

1. Citroën Basalt: The French Are Back!

2025 heralds the highly anticipated return of Citroën to Malaysia, reintroducing its signature French flair with bold, quirky designs that are sure to spark both admiration and debate 

While we got a teaser earlier with the Citroën C3 Aircross at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, the real headliner is actually the all-new Citroën Basalt. This unique looking SUV wants to captivate urban explorers and design aficionados alike, combining modern practicality with Citroën’s signature quirky design.

Under the hood, the Basalt is expected to pack a punch with a 1.2L PureTech turbocharged engine, delivering 109 bhp and 205 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic torque converter for smooth and efficient performance. 

Inside, Citroën’s penchant for unconventional design shines through, offering a cabin that’s as comfortable as it is quirky.

To further elevate the experience, the Basalt could feature Citroën’s renowned “magic carpet ride” like suspension, delivering good ride comfort that feels like gliding over the road.

With Stellantis Malaysia’s investment in its Gurun plant, it’s highly likely the Basalt will be locally assembled, ensuring competitive pricing.

Early projections suggest it will be priced attractively, but we guess under the RM100k mark, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a blend of uniqueness, practicality, and French approach in an SUV.

2. Jaecoo J7 PHEV: Affordable Plug-in Power

Jaecoo Malaysia has already teased us with the J7 PHEV, and it’s safe to say this one’s set for an early 2025 debut. The J7 PHEV is particularly exciting as it marks one of the first truly affordable plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) in Malaysia.

Designed for drivers that want to go the distance in one full tank of petrol and those that don’t want to compromise on performance, the J7 PHEV combines a petrol engine with a powerful electric motor, delivering both efficiency and punchy acceleration. 

Coupled with Jaecoo’s signature rugged-yet-premium aesthetics, this SUV is primed to make PHEVs mainstream, appealing to families and young professionals alike.

The SUV features a robust hybrid powertrain that combines an 18.3 kWh battery with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering an impressive 341 hp and 525 Nm of torque. 

With an estimated 1,300 km range on a full tank and charge, the J7 PHEV is ideal for long journeys, while its DC fast charging support (up to 40 kW) ensures quick and convenient recharging. 

Estimated to be priced between RM170,000 and RM180,000, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV aims to make hybrid technology more accessible to the average consumer, breaking the norm of PHEVs being prohibitively expensive. Available in two variants—2WD and AWD—the SUV caters to both city drivers and adventure enthusiasts.

3. Proton X50 Facelift: A Fresh Take on a Crowd Favourite

Wait, didn’t Proton just update the X50 in 2024? Yes, but here’s the twist: 2025 might bring us a proper facelift. Rumour has it that this update goes beyond minor tweaks, with significant changes expected in both design and features.

Fans of the X50 can look forward to sharper styling cues, possibly inspired by Geely’s latest models, and enhanced tech features such as improved ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and a more intuitive infotainment interface. 

It's reasonable to assume that the Proton X50 Facelift, could be influenced by the new "Energy Storm" design language seen on the Geely Binyue, featuring an aggressive front grille and bumper reminiscent of the Emgrand L and Boyue X.

Sharp, slimmer headlamps with redesigned LED DRLs and a more sculpted hood with added air vents suggest a sportier and more premium appearance. Changes to the rear, such as thinner taillights spanning the entire hatch and a revamped bumper with vertically aligned reflectors, might also be carried over to give the X50 a fresher, more modern appeal.

Under the hood, the most recent Geely Binyue debuted a new 1.5L four-cylinder turbo engine producing an impressive 181 hp. However, will this engine replace the current three-cylinder setup in the flagship Proton X50? Given Proton’s current reliance on the 1.5L three-cylinder turbo across its lineup, it seems unlikely. 

Still, if this upgrade were to materialize, it would not only boost performance but also position the X50 more competitively within the global compact SUV market, aligning it with rising expectations for refinement and power.

In terms of tech, the X50 facelift is likely to adopt several advanced features from the updated Binyue. A 10.25-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch central infotainment screen, along with a 15W wireless charging pad integrated into the center console, could very well be included, elevating its interior appeal. 

These additions would ensure the X50 remains at the forefront of technology, offering a more premium and connected driving experience for its growing fan base. If Proton plays its cards right, the facelifted X50 could once again cement its position as Malaysia’s favourite compact SUV.

4. eMAS PHEV: Proton’s Green Revolution Continues

Proton’s new electric-focused eMAS sub-brand is shaping up to be a game-changer. After the eMAS 7’s debut, insiders suggest a PHEV variant is next on the docket for 2025. Speculations point to it being based on the Geely Galaxy Starship 7, which is a plug-in hybrid sibling to the Geely E5 (aka eMAS 7).

Expect a potent combination of a 1.5L turbocharged engine and a high-capacity battery, offering impressive electric-only range alongside reduced emissions. For Malaysians hesitant to go full electric, this PHEV could strike the perfect balance between innovation and familiarity.

The Geely Galaxy Starship 7 is plug-in hybrid SUV equipped with the innovative NordThor EM-i powertrain, combining a 1.5L 4-cylinder petrol engine with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (E-DHT). 

The setup delivers a combined 218 PS and 262 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 7.5 seconds with a top speed of 180 km/h. With the 19.09 kWh (120 km EV range) setup—the vehicle offers a total driving range of up to 1,420 km when combined with its 51L fuel tank, while maintaining an impressive fuel consumption rate of 3.75 L/100 km.

Inside, the PHEV boasts a cabin with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 13.8-inch head-up display. Other highlights include a 50W wireless charger, full-width air vents, and physical air-con controls for added convenience. The SUV combines practicality with futuristic styling, featuring a bold light bar, redesigned taillights, and multi-spoke wheels. 

With DC fast charging capabilities (30-80% in 20 minutes) and vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, the Starship 7 is engineered for versatility, making it an ideal hybrid SUV for both city commutes and long-distance travel.

As a plug-in hybrid, the vehicle wouldn’t qualify for the full EV tax exemptions available in Malaysia. Consequently, its pricing is expected to be positioned higher than the fully electric eMAS 7 EV, which currently carries an estimated price tag of RM120,000.

5. All-New Proton Saga: Reinventing an Icon

Few cars hold as much cultural weight in Malaysia as the Proton Saga, and whispers of an all-new model launching by the end of 2025 are enough to send waves of excitement through the community.

Proton is reportedly developing this new iteration at its R&D facility in Hangzhou Bay, China. Sources hint at a modernized platform paired with a new-generation 1.5L naturally aspirated (NA) engine, likely mated to a CVT for improved fuel efficiency and smoother performance. 

With Proton’s focus on quality and affordability, the next-gen Saga could very well redefine what a budget sedan should be in the modern era. 

After all, the current Saga is a bit long in the tooth so it’s high time that a replacement is due. Above all the X and other models, the Saga is Proton’s most important vehicle as the sales of the Saga makes up approximately around 50% of the company's transactions. 

6. Honda Civic Facelift: Elevating a Segment Leader

Set to debut in January 2025, the Honda Civic facelift is already generating buzz with its fresh updates to style, performance, and connectivity.

Honda Malaysia has opened bookings for the new Civic, which continues the brand’s legacy of delivering a refined driving experience in the C-segment sedan market.

The facelift introduces redesigned front and rear bumpers, a hexagonal honeycomb grille, and updated 18-inch matte grey alloy wheels for the sporty e:HEV RS variant, while the Petrol RS receives aggressive black-painted grille extensions for a bolder appearance.

Performance enhancements include two powertrain options: the e:HEV RS hybrid with a 2.0L engine producing 184 PS and 315 Nm of torque, and the Petrol RS powered by a 1.5L VTEC Turbocharged engine delivering 182 PS and 240 Nm of torque.

Inside, the Civic facelift offers wireless Android Auto, a 12-speaker Bose Premium Audio system (for the e:HEV RS), and a suite of advanced safety features under Honda SENSING.

As Malaysia’s top choice in the non-national C-segment for eight consecutive years, the refreshed Civic aims to maintain its 70% market share and redefine the benchmark for its class.

Wrapping Up: A Year to Remember

The lineup for 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet, blending the best of global automotive ingenuity with local sensibilities.

From French elegance to cutting-edge Chinese technology and beloved homegrown icons, these launches promise to cater to every kind of driver.

Buckle up, Malaysia—2025 is going to be one heck of a ride!