Weekly wrap-up: MG S5 EV teased, Jetour Dashing launch date announced, Honda 0 SUV revealed, and more

With the beginning of the second quarter of the year, the automakers are ramping up their plans to launch new models slated for 2025. Jetour Auto Malaysia has finally announced the late date of the Dashing SUV while SAIC Motor dropped the first teaser of its upcoming MG S5 EV. In the meantime, the global automotive industry also enjoyed some noteworthy reveals and exciting scoops on the upcoming models.

In case you missed out on any of that, we've got you covered in our quick recap of all the major auto news of the week. 

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Jetour Dashing launching in Malaysia on April 9

Chery-owned Jetour is finally ready to launch its first model in Malaysia, called Dashing. Ahead of launch, the first shipment of this highly anticipated SUV has arrived in Port Klang, Selangor. The Dashing is a C-segment SUV that boasts a striking, futuristic design and is equipped with several advanced technologies. It is likely to be offered in two variants locally - Prime, and Signature, both powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine generating 156 PS and 230 Nm of peak torque. Notably, the Dashing will be initially sold as a fully-imported CBU unit, with local assembly set to begin in late May 2025. 

MG S5 EV teased ahead of next month launch

The local distributor of MG cars in Malaysia, SAIC Motor, has started the teaser campaign for its upcoming EV, the S5. Set to launch in May 2025, the MG S5 is a C-segment electric SUV, slotted above the MG 4 in the brand’s local lineup. It features a rear-wheel drivetrain with a horizontal layout battery. The EV will support up to 150 kW DC fast charging, offering 10 to 80% SoC in less than 30 minutes. Notable features include - racing flag-themed daytime running lights, a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 12.8-inch infotainment unit, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel. 

Porsche Malaysia road safety awareness campaign launched

Sime Darby Auto Performance (Auto Performance), the local distributor of Porsche cars in Malaysia, has launched a road safety awareness campaign for students, in association with the Motorsports Association of Malaysia. Under the campaign, titled “Students Today. Drivers Tomorrow,” Porsche Malaysia and MAM conduct engaging and interactive workshops in selected schools with motorsports instructors, simulation driving techniques, and interactive quizzes. This nationwide road safety awareness campaign has reached over 1,600 participants between the ages of 7 to 17 years old. 

Proton, Chery & others support Putra Heights fire victims

A tragic fire incident happened this week at Putra Heights due to a gas pipeline rupture, displacing families and disrupting the daily lives of those in the area. Soon after knowing the difficulties of the affected residents, the government announced financial aid for them. Automakers are also extending their support in several ways, including 

• Proton has donated RM 250,000 for those sheltered at temporary evacuation centres (PPS) and is offering free inspection for affected Proton cars at its six service centres.
• Chery has pledged to lend 50 vehicles to affected families, helping them with essential daily activities such as commuting, attending medical appointments, and caring for their families. 
• Used car marketplace Carro also pledged to loan 30 vehicles to affected residents. The company is working closely with the Ministry of Transport, Selangor state government, and local authorities to coordinate relief efforts.

New Tesla Model Y Launch Series no longer on sale

Tesla Malaysia has discontinued the Launch Series of the all-new Model Y Juniper introduced in February. That means the American EV is now available in the standard RWD and AWD variants, priced at RM 195,450 and RM 242,450, respectively. Deliveries of the new Tesla Model Y are set to commence soon in Malaysia.

All-new Porsche 911 facelift debuts in Malaysia

Porsche Malaysia has started accepting orders for the all-new 911 facelift, with prices starting at RM 1.43 million. The upgraded model boasts several design and tech upgrades inside and out. In terms of mechanical setup, the top-spec Carrera 4 GTS is equipped with a new 3.6-litre T-Hybrid six-cylinder boxer engine mated to an eight-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission. 

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

New Hyundai Ioniq 6 facelift revealed globally

Hyundai has pulled the wraps off the Ioniq 6 facelift at Seoul Motor Show 2025. The upgraded EV features new a front and rear design with new alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. Interior enhancements include a new 3-spoke steering wheel, a larger climate control display, new materials and door trims. There is also a new N Line variant, incorporating sportier cosmetic elements. The new Ioniq 6 comes with the same 53-kWh and 77.4kWh battery packs as earlier.

BYD teases new electric, the e7

BYD is set to expand its exciting lineup of electric vehicles with the launch of an electric sedan, the e7. The automaker officially teased the BYD e7 this week, revealing its silhouette and sleek proportions. According to the MITI regulatory filings, it will come powered by a 136 PS front-mounted single e-motor and two LFP Blade battery pack options - 48 kWh or 57.6 kWh, offering a range of 450 km or 520 km (on the CLTC cycle), respectively. 

Yangwang U7 ultra-luxury sedan launched in China

BYD’s luxury sub-brand Yangwang has launched the U7 electric sedan in the Chinese market. The EV is offered in plug-in hybrid as well as all-electric versions, powered by four e-motors. The U7 has the lowest drag coefficient among mass-produced cars in the world, measuring at Cd 0.195. Some of its impressive features are - DiSus-Z suspension system, tank turn, 23.6-inch instrument panel, dual 12.8-inch rear screens, 23-speaker DYNAUDIO system, “God’s Eye” ADAS pack, and 720 km driving range. Price begins at CNY 628,000 (approx RM 383k) and goes up to CNY 708,000 (approx RM 432k).

Hyundai INSTEROID concept car breaks covers

Hyundai has introduced a gaming-inspired version of the Inster EV, called the INSTEROID. It is a concept car featuring an extended, widened body, a prominent wing spoiler, and track-optimized wheels. The cabin has a stripped-down layout and is equipped with a specialized instrument cluster, bucket seats, and a roll cage. Other exciting features include - Drift Mode, Beat House sound system and a Message Grid. No technical details have been provided, hinting that a road-ready version may not be in the works.

Honda 0 SUV prototype makes global public debut

Honda unveiled two 0 Series EV concepts at the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this year.  Now after almost 3 months, a prototype of the Honda 0 SUV made its global public debut at the Red Bull Showrun x Powered by Honda event in Tokyo, Japan. The road-going model of the EV features new headlights with familiar pixel-like accents and gloss black cladding on the front fenders. Based on a new dedicated EV platform, the Honda 0 SUV is expected to enter production next year.

 2026 Toyota GR Supra MKV Final Edition, GR86 Yuzu Edition unveiled

Toyota introduced two new models this week -  the 2026 Toyota GR Supra MKV Final Edition and the 2026 Toyota GR86 Yuzu Edition. The unique highlights of these special edition sports cars, differentiating them from standard versions, are as follows - 

Specs	GR Supra MKV Final Edition	GR86 Yuzu Edition
Exterior	Carbon-fiber aerodynamic components, including a front spoiler and a swan-neck rear wing	Distinctive Yuzu (yellow) exterior paint Black mirror caps and a black rear spoiler 18-inch Satin Black forged alloy wheels
Interior	Recaro Podium CF carbon-fiber bucket seats and red seatbelt accents	Unique trims and yellow contrast stitching
Performance	3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine producing higher output of 435 PS and 583 Nm (35 PS and 94 Nm more than the standard version) Six-speed manual gearbox as optional	Retuned dampers and enhanced Electronic Power Steering
Production	Limited to 150 units	Limited to a specific number of units

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

Also read: Toyota & Family: A legacy of trust that drives through generations