Top auto news of the week: BYD Dolphin EV, Aston Martin DB12 super tourer launched, Smart #1 EV previewed, and more

This week Malaysia welcomed one more new EV in the form of the BYD Dolphin, expanding the country's growing lineup of electric vehicles. Along with that, Aston Martin’s super-tourer DB12 also made its way to the local market. In the meantime, the international auto industry saw the unveiling of the highly-awaited 2024 Mitsubishi Triton, 2024 Kia Sorento facelift, and Subaru BRZ tS. 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. 

Local news

BYD Dolphin EV launched 

After a long teaser campaign, BYD finally launched the Dolphin electric hatchback in Malaysia this week. The EV is offered in two variants - Dynamic Standard Range and Premium Extended Range, priced between RM 100,530 and RM 125,530. The former is powered by a 94 PS/180 Nm electric motor and a 44.9 kWh Blade Battery pack while the latter comes equipped with a more powerful 204 PS/310 Nm motor and a bigger 60.48 kWh battery unit. The WLTP-claimed driving range is up to 427 km.

Aston Martin DB12 launched

The ultra-luxury Aston Martin super tourer, the DB12, has arrived in Malaysia. Priced from RM 1,088,000, this 2+2 supercar is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine that generates a whooping power of 680 hp and a maximum torque of 800 Nm. The power is sent to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission enabling the car to run from zero to 100 kmph in 3.6 seconds and hit a top speed of 325 kmph. Performance-enhancing features include - Electronic Power Assisted Steering system, Electronic Rear Differential paired with the industry-leading Electronic Stability Control, 21-inch forged alloy wheels shod with Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres, Carbon Ceramic Brakes, and five selectable Drive Modes - Wet, GT, Sport, Sport Plus, and Individual.

Smart #1 EV previewed

Set to enter the Malaysian market in collaboration with Proton, the German EV marque “smart” previewed the #1 electric SUV. The EV is based on the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) 2 platform and underpins the “sensibility and sharpness” design philosophy. The smart #1 launch is expected to be held in the fourth quarter of the year.  

Sime Darby Motors teamed up with AstraZeneca

Sime Darby Motors has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AstraZeneca biopharmaceutical company to gear up the adoption of EVs among AstraZeneca’s employees. Under the collaboration, the EVs (particularly BMW, BYD, and Hyundai) will be offered to AstraZeneca’s employees at corporate rates. The signing of the MoU took place at AstraZeneca's corporate headquarters and was witnessed by delegates from the British High Commission, InvestKL Malaysia, and The British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce.

International news

2024 Mitsubishi Triton revealed

Mitsubishi finally introduced the new Triton pickup in Thailand this week. The upgraded pickup truck underpins a newly developed ladder frame chassis and a new high-efficiency clean diesel engine which produces 204 PS of maximum power and 470 Nm of peak torque in the highest-output form. Also, parts of the upgrade are - a new suspension system, a new ‘Beast Mode’ design concept, a more hi-tech interior, and a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Pricing for the new Triton starts at THB 699,000 (RM 92,849) and goes up to THB 1,027,000 (RM 136,419) in Thailand.

2024 Kia Sorento facelift broke covers

The fourth-gen Kia Sorento is ready for a mid-cycle update in South Korea. Ahead of the full reveal slated for August, Kia released a few images of the facelifted model revealing the new front fascia, which houses a new tiger-nose grille and slimmer and boomerang-shaped LED headlights. Inside, the SUV boasts a more streamlined dash layout with a new Panoramic curved display incorporating dual 12.3-inch displays. Also, parts of the upgraded kit are - a new fingerprint authentication, a new ambient lighting bar, and redesigned climate controls.

Subaru BRZ tS debuts in the US

Subaru BRZ sports car gets a new performance-oriented tS variant in the US market. Developed by Subaru Tecnica International division, the BRZ tS features a number of performance upgrades over the standard model, including an STI-tuned suspension setup with Hitachi dampers, high-performance Brembo braking system, and 18-inch wheels shod with 215/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres. Powering the new BRZ variant is a 2.4-litre naturally-aspirated flat-four engine generating 228 hp and 249 Nm of torque.

2023 Mazda CX-60 launched in Indonesia

The Mazda CX-60 SUV landed on Indonesian shores this week. It is offered in two variants - Elite and Kuro, both priced at IDR 1,188,800,000 (RM 358,836). Differentiating the two variants are exterior and interior trims; the Elite features a bar grille, 20-inch diamond-cut wheels, and a Pure White Nappa Leather cabin whereas the Kuro has a honeycomb grille, 20-inch black wheels, and a Tan Nappa Leather interior. Both variants are powered by the same 3.3-litre inline-6 e-Skyactiv G mild-hybrid engine, capable of generating 280 PS and 450 Nm. 

2024 Mercedes-Benz mid-size van lineup updated

Mercedes-Benz has updated its complete mid-size van lineup in the global market, which includes the EQV, V-Class, V-Class Marco Polo camper, Vito, and eVito. All revamped models feature a refreshed look with new front designs and new wheels. The interior benefits from hi-tech instrument clusters and infotainment units.

That’s all for the week. For further exciting updates on the automotive industry, stay tuned with Zigwheels Malaysia.

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