Weekly wrap-up: 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper, Denza D9 launched, 41,000 cars recalled, and more

The Malaysian automotive industry saw a busy momentum this week with a slew of launches followed by the opening of new showrooms. BYD-owned Denza finally made an entry into the Malaysian automotive arena while Tesla introduced the all-new Model Y facelift. In the meantime, some important reveals were held in the international market. In case you missed out on any of that, we have covered you with this quick recap of important auto news of the week. 

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Denza D9 EV up for grabs in Malaysia

Denza has launched the 7-seater electric MPV, the D9, in Malaysia. It is offered in two variants - Advance and Premium, priced at RM 259,000 and RM 309,000, respectively. Both trims are equipped with the same 103.36 kWh Blade LFP battery pack, which provides a driving range of up to 600 km. The Denza D9 launch package, available for the first 800 buyers, includes a complimentary 22kW wall box, a 6-year/120,000 km servicing, and exclusive gifts such as a luggage bag and neck and waist pillow set. 

2025 Tesla Model Y facelift launched in Malaysia

Tesla has rolled out the all-new Model Y (aka Project Juniper) in the Malaysian market just a month after its global debut. The upgraded electric is offered in two versions - Rear-Wheel Drive and Long Range All-Wheel Drive, priced at RM 195,450 and RM 242,450, respectively. The former offers a driving range of 466 km, while the latter cruises up to 551 km on a single charge. New for 2025 is a new “Cyber Design” exterior, newly designed lighting units, and wheels. Inside, it benefits from a larger 15.4-inch infotainment unit, an 8-inch rear touchscreen, a conventional indicator stalk on the steering wheel, and double-glazed Acoustic Glass.

JPJ recalls 41,000 vehicles 

JPJ (Road Transport Department) has issued a recall notice for 41,000 vehicles from six different car manufacturers, including Honda, Kia, Ford, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz. The reason behind the recall is structural, equipment, and system flaws. The list includes - 

• Honda (Civic, Civic Type R, CR-V) - Steering and noise issues
• Kia Sorento (2010-2015) - Fire risk and engine faults
• Ford Everest (2022-2024) - Battery and window mechanism issues
• Audi e-Tron GT & RS e-Tron GT (2022-2024) - Brake and battery concerns
• Mercedes-Benz (various models) - Engine control and wiring defects

Denza Z9 GT debuts in Malaysia

Alongside launching the D9, Denza previewed the Z9 GT, which is earmarked to launch in Malaysia soon. It is a four-door cruiser with a hatchback-style opening, powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain. The setup comprises a 2.0-litre turbo engine and three electric motors, dishing out a combined output of 870 PS. The electrified Z9 GT offers a total range of 1100 km on a single tank and charge, however, it runs for 201 km on all-electric mode. It is priced between CNY 334,800 (RM 204,120) and CNY 414,800 (RM 252,894).

2025 Aveta Nova series launched in Malaysia

The Malaysian-born bike maker Aveta, has expanded its diverse lineup of mopeds and super mopeds with the introduction of a new Nova series. It includes two affordable scooters - Nova 125 and Nova 160, which target the practical needs of urban riders with all essential features on board. The key specs are as follows - 

Models	Aveta Nova 125	Aveta Nova 160
Price	RM 5,188	RM 7,988
Engine	125-cc air-cooled, single-cylinder, SOHC, two-valve	154.4-cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder
Max power	9 hp at 8,000 rpm	15.8 hp at 8,500 rpm
Max torque	8.8 Nm at 6,500 rpm	14.7 Nm at 6,500 rpm
Key features	Full LED headlights, dual USB port, 3.7-inch digital LCD display, CBS braking system, 14-inch wheels, telescopic fork (front), swing arm (rear)	Full LED lights, USB charging port, modern meter panel, keyless control system, idling stop system, disc brakes, Gas-charged shock absorbers, 14-inch wheels
Colour	Berry Peach, Grey Lemon, Blue Lemon	Aveta Blue, Raven Red, Copper Blaze

Zeekr Space Petaling Jaya now opens

Geely’s premium sub-brand Zeekr opened its first showroom, called Zeekr Space, in Malaysia this week. Operated by Sentinel Automotive, this 1S facility is located at Petaling Jaya. The showroom spans 660 sq metres, displaying the brand's latest EVs - Zeekr X and Zeekr 009. It also incorporates a comfortable lounge area and a delivery bay. 

New GAC, Aion centre opens in Penang

WTC Automotif (WTCA) has opened a new 3S centre in Malaysia. Located at Bayan Lepas, Penang, the new facility is operated by WariTan Automobile. It incorporates a 2,045-sq ft showroom displaying a full range of GAC and Aion models and a 5,897-sq ft service centre featuring 10 fully equipped service bays with certified technicians & a comprehensive inventory of genuine spare parts. A 7kW EV charger for convenient on-site charging is also available at the new Aion 3S centre.

Naza Automania Carnival 2025 set to be held this weekend

Naza Automania Carnival is set to bring some seriously tempting deals on cars and bikes with a three-day exciting event beginning today. It offers major discounts on top brands, including Mercedes-Benz, Maserati, Toyota, Suzuki Pre-Owned Cars and Ducati Apparel. The event will be held at Naza Automall, Petaling Jaya, from February 21 to 23, 2025.

Bosch Mobility Aftermarket unveils new products

Bosch Mobility Aftermarket has introduced an exciting new range of essential automotive products. Aim at improving vehicle performance, safety, and efficiency, the new range includes -  ClearAdvantage TL Wiper, EFB Battery (M42R), C70B Battery Charger, EVO Spark Plug, Bosch Engine Oil, Ceramic Brake Pad, Compound Brake Disc, ENV6 Brake Fluid. All these products are now available at https://shopee.com.my/boschautoparts.os

Audi Q7 launch confirmed for Malaysia 

The all-new Audi Q7 is slated to launch in Malaysia in May this year. Built at the Pekan, Pahang facility, the SUV will be the first locally assembled Audi in Southeast Asia. The facelifted SUV boasts styling enhancements, an upgraded MIB 3 infotainment system, and OLED tail lights. It comes in multiple engine options globally, however, it is likely to get the 3.0-litre turbocharged in Malaysia just like the Volkswagen Touareg CKD. 

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

Kia EV4 revealed in two body styles

Kia has pulled the wraps off a new electric car, the Kia EV4, in sedan and hatchback body styles. Targeting a broad demographic, the latest Kia EV looks absolutely stunning and incorporates advanced technologies. It is expected to borrow the electric drivetrain from the Kia EV3. The EV4 will make its official debut on February 27, 2025, with production expected to begin by the end of 2025.

Mercedes-Benz to launch 36 new cars by 2027

Mercedes-Benz has announced its ‘Mastering Transformation’ roadmap, under which the German automaker will introduce 36 new vehicles by 2027, including 19 ICE-powered vehicles and 17 battery-operated vehicles. The rollout will begin later this year with the next-gen Mercedes CLA incorporating electric and hybrid powertrains. Other upcoming launches include - a major S-Class upgrade, an all-electric C-Class, a "baby G-Class" and new AMG models.

All-new 2025 BYD Atto 3 breaks cover

BYD has revealed the exterior images of the all-new Atto 3 facelift in the international market. The upgraded model features sportier bumpers, new wave-like tail lights, and a new boot lid spoiler. The automaker has also repositioned the front camera, hinting at the inclusion of the brand’s new God’s Eye ADAS suite. No changes are expected in terms of drivetrain setup.

Toyota Innova EV concept more details out

Toyota introduced the upgraded version of the Innova EV concept at the ongoing Indonesia International Motor Show in Jakarta. The latest version features a redesigned LED headlight, new wheels, and other cosmetic enhancements. It is equipped with a 179 hp/700 Nm electric motor and a 59.3-kWh lithium-ion battery pack that supports both AC and DC charging systems. Toyota confirmed that the EV is not going to enter production anytime soon.

Rolls-Royce Spectre Black Badge revealed

The all-new Rolls-Royce Spectre Black Badge made its global debut this week. It is a high-performance iteration of the standard Spectre, which sets itself apart with enhanced output, black accents, and tweaked chassis, offering improved handling and ride comfort. The EV delivers a maximum power of 659 hp and a peak torque of 1,075 Nm, enabling the vehicle to hit the century sprint in 4.1 seconds. It boasts a 102-kWh battery pack, offering a range of up to 530 km.

Volvo XC60 gets an upgrade for 2025

Volvo has unveiled the upgraded version of the XC60. The latest model features an enhanced exterior, new colour options, and new tech features. The latter includes an upgraded 11.2-inch infotainment unit that runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processor. The mechanical setup remains the same as earlier, including a 455-hp plug-in hybrid and a 250-hp mild-hybrid unit. The new Volvo XC60 is set to go on sale internationally later this year. 

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

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