Weekly wrap-up: Updated BMW 3 Series launched, Denza D9 bookings open, Xpeng X9, Deepal S07 EVs previewed, and more

As we move forward in 2025, the excitement in the Malaysian automotive industry continues to grow. This past week we received the upgraded version of the popular BMW 3 Series and proceeded one step further towards getting exciting EVs like the Denza D9, Xpeng G9, and Deepal S07. In the meantime, the global auto arena also witnessed a few big reveals. Here’s a quick recap of all the top auto news of the week.

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

2025 BMW 3 Series launched in Malaysia

The BMW 3 Series received a subtle upgrade this week. New for 2025 is a refreshed interior featuring a new M Sport steering wheel with a 12 o’clock strap and new geometrical air vents. Adding to the updates are new exterior shades, an enhanced suspension, the latest BMW Operating System 8.5 with QuickSelect touch-oriented menu, and an updated Video Augmented Reality (AR) system. The 2025 BMW 3 Series is offered in four variants -

• 320i M Sport: RM 272,800
• 330i M Sport: RM 308,800
• 330Li M Sport: RM 314,800
• M340i xDrive M Sport Pro: RM 385,800

Denza D9 EV bookings open in Malaysia

Sime Motors has started accepting bookings for the Denza D9. It is an all-electric premium MPV that boasts a sophisticated and futuristic design with a huge, intricate front grille, sleek headlights, and an elongated silhouette. Expected to launch soon, the Denza D9 EV is likely to come in two electric motor setups - FWD and AWD, coupled with the same 103 kWh Blade lithium iron phosphate, offering a range of up to 520 km. In terms of features, we can expect a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, a 15.6-inch infotainment unit, wireless chargers, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and advanced driver-assistance systems.

Xpeng X9 previewed in Malaysia

After the G6 electric SUV, the Chinese automaker Xpeng is set to launch its next EV in Malaysia, called the X9. Previewed this week, the upcoming Xpeng X9 is a large premium MPV that will square up against electric MPVs like the Zeekr 009 and the upcoming Denza D9. The premium features it brings to the table include a Tesla-like 17.3-inch central touchscreen unit, zero-gravity reclining captain seats, a 21.4-inch roof-mounted TV, heated/ventilated seats, and a hot-and-cold refrigerator. The Malaysia-spec model is likely to get a 320 PS/450 Nm front-wheel drive electric motor and two battery options - 84.5-kWh LFP and 101.5-kWh NMC, offering a maximum range of up to 575 km. 

Deepal S07 set to arrive in Malaysia

Another Chinese EV that is set for its Malaysian arrival this year is the Deepal S07. Bermaz Changan Sdn Bhd. the subsidiary of Bermaz Auto, has recently previewed this D-segment electric vehicle. The Deepal S07 is a sporty-looking well-equipped EV that will rival the likes of the Tesla Model Y and BYD Sealion 7. It is expected to get a rear-wheel drive motor paired with either a 66.8 kWh or 79.97 kWh NMC battery pack, offering an NEDC-claimed range of 485 km and 560 km, respectively. 

Perodua signs MoU with UTM for next-gen EVs 

With the aim of developing its own xEV technology, Perodua joined hands with the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia(UTM). Under the signed MoU, both parties will equip future engineers with the skills required for xEV technology development. They will enhance the university’s undergraduate academic curriculum for engineering and other related courses, establish a satellite lab at UTM’s main campus in Johor, and provide academic experts and engineers with exposure to the latest tech. Notably, Perodua is set to launch its first EV this year.

BYD Seal grabs “Overall Car of the Year” award 

BYD Malaysia won big at the recently held Malaysia Car of the Year Awards 2024 (MCOTY) as the Seal EV took home not one, not two, but a total of four awards. It became the first-ever EV to clinch the prestigious Overall Car of the Year (COTY). The awards list is as follows -

BYD SEAL Premium (Extended Range)	Overall Car of the Year 2024
BYD SEAL (Premium Extended Range)	Sedan of the Year - Below RM 200,000
BYD SEAL (Premium Extended Range)	xEV of the Year - RM 150,000 to RM 300,000
BYD SEAL (Performance AWD)	Sedan of the Year - RM 200,000 to RM 500,000

Modenas Kriss 125 Fi up for grabs in Malaysia

Modenas has expanded its lineup in Malaysia with the launch of a new underbone motorcycle, the Kriss 125 Fi. As the name suggests, the latest cub is powered by a 124-cc single-cylinder, Euro 4 compliant engine that makes 8.44 hp at 8,000 rpm and 8.5 Nm at 6,000 rpm. Ideal for urban and suburban riding, the motorbike comes equipped with an LED headlight, daytime running light, a sleek tail light, a dual USB power socket, and 17-inch wheels. The 2025 Modenas Kriss 125 Fi is priced at RM 5,620 (excluding road tax, insurance or registration) and comes in two Glacier Emerald Green and Graphite Grey.

Jaecoo J7 PHEV completed a 1,427 km run without re-fuelling and charging

The Malaysia-bound Jaecoo J7 PHEV recently showcased its impressive real-world performance. The plug-in hybrid SUV undertook a long-distance journey, starting from Singapore, through Malaysia to Hatyai, Thailand, and covered a distance of 1,427.5 km on a single fuel tank and charge. It proudly surpassed the 1,200 km WLTP certified range (combined) and an all-electric range of 90 km. Not only range, the SUV also delivered impressive fuel efficiency of 3.5 litres per 100 km against the standard 6.6 litres per 100 km. 

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

VinFast VF Wild concept breaks cover in India

The Vietnamese automaker VinFast previewed the VF Wild concept at the recently concluded Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 in India. It is an electric pickup truck that boasts rugged styling and a flexible load bed with a powered-folding mid-gate. Aimed at new-gen adventure enthusiasts, the VinFast VF Wild features a chunky gloss black body cladding, massive tyres, and a premium and minimalist layout. Jointly designed by VinFast and GoMotiv (an Australian design studio), the VF Wild will compete against the Tesla Cybertruck, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Rivian RT1.

7-seater MG Majestor SUV unveiled at Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025

MG pulled the wraps off the Majestor SUV at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025. It is a rebadged version of the Maxus D90 facelift and is positioned above the MG Gloster in the brand’s Indian lineup. The MG Majestor is a seven-seater SUV featuring a rugged and boxier design; the automaker claims that it is the longest, tallest and widest SUV in its segment. While no technical details are out yet, the latest MG is expected to get power from a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine.

Zeekr 007 GT wagon official images revealed

Zeekr has officially revealed the images of the all-new 007 GT wagon ahead of its launch in the European market. The upcoming wagon will share the same specifications as its sedan sibling, including the 800V architecture and the world’s fastest Golden-brick battery pack that offers a 10 to 80% SoC in 10.5 minutes only. The Euro-spec Zeekr 007 GT wagon is expected to offer a range of 688 km to 870 km.

Proton eMAS 7-twin Geely EX5 debuts in Indonesia

Geely has made a comeback in the Indonesian market with the launch of the EX5, which is a twin of the Proton eMAS 7. The electric SUV is offered in two variants there - Max and Pro, powered by a single, front-mounted electric motor tuned to deliver 218 PS of maximum power and 320 Nm of peak torque. As for battery, there are two LFP options - a 49.52 kWh or 60.22 kWh battery, offering a range of 345 km and 410 km, respectively. The pricing is yet to be confirmed.

Jetour introduces luxury sub-brand in China

Jetour has introduced its new luxury sub-brand, called Zongheng, in the Chinese market. Under the new badging, the Chinese automaker showcased three off-road vehicles - Zongheng G700 SUV, Zongheng F700 pickup, and Zongheng G900 coupe SUV. While the latter two are currently in the prototyping stage, the Jetour Zongheng G700 SUV is a road-ready model, which was earlier previewed as the T5 Concept. Expected to launch in the second quarter of the year, the G700 features a boxy rugged design with adjustable ground clearance and a 2+2+2 seating layout. It is powered by Chery’s Kunpeng Super Hybrid CDM-O drivetrain capable of generating a whopping output of 761 PS and 795 Nm.

Electric Land Rover Defender phased out for current generation

As per the recent market reports, Jaguar Land Rover has decided not to bring the electric version of the current-generation Defender due to challenges associated with the fitment of the electric drive in the existing D7x architecture. Notably, the ongoing Defender model comes in petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid versions. As for the integration of pure battery technology, the automaker may have to compromise on the space and off-road potential of the SUV. That means, we can expect the electric Defender with the arrival of the next-generation model.

That's a wrap for now. For all the latest updates on the automotive industry, stay tuned with us.

Also read: Why Malaysians love the Perodua Bezza: Unveiling the secrets