Weekly wrap-up: 2023 Lexus RX new variant, 2023 Yamaha Y15ZR SE launched, Neta V launch confirmed for September, and more

This week Malaysia’s premium vehicle space welcomed the new Lexus RX 500h F Sport while the two-wheeler category received the new Yamaha Y15ZR Special Edition. Alongside these two launches, a few important announcements were also made in the local market. Globally, several new models made their official debut at the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show 2023. In case you've missed out on anything, check out all important auto news here.

Local news

2023 Lexus RX 500h F Sport launched

After launching the RX 350 Luxury in May this year, Lexus has now introduced the range-topping RX 500h F Sport in Malaysia. Priced at RM 498,888, the fully-imported premium SUV is equipped with a hybrid powertrain, which combines two electric motors and a 2.4-litre turbocharged inline-four engine. The combined output of the setup is rated at 371 PS and 550 Nm. Design-wise, the new RX variant gets exclusive F-Sport touches like a new black-coloured Spindle Body grille, aggressive bumpers, matte black 21-inch light alloy wheels, and body-coloured side skirts. Inside, it gets sports seats with the F Sport logo, a variant-specific instrument panel, an F Sport steering wheel, and aluminium pedals.

2023 Yamaha Y15ZR SE launched

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor launched the new Y15ZR Special Edition in Malaysia this week. The special model exudes a sportier and dynamic appearance with a striking blue tone and an exclusive aero kit. The latter includes a visor located on top of the front cowl. And air scoops positioned on the sides of the front and rear cowls. At the core of the special Y15ZR lies the familiar 149.7 cc liquid-cooled, SOHC engine which makes 15.4 PS of power and 13.8 Nm of torque. The 2023 Yamaha Y15ZR SE is priced at RM 9,498.

Neta V Malaysia launch confirmed for September 2023

After the photo of the Neta V carrying a price tag of RM 79,800 went viral on social media, the local official distributor of the brand, Intro Synergy, issued a statement clarifying that the mentioned price is not accurate. The company also announced that the Neta V will have its official launch in September, during which the EV's retail price will be unveiled, along with exciting packages.

Sime Darby Swedish Auto to install Volvo EV chargers at the golf club

Volvo and Sime Darby Swedish Auto team up with the Kota Permai Golf & Country Club to offer free EV charging to club members. Under the collaboration, two units of free-to-use 22kW AC charging stations will be strategically located at the club.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia appointed new CEO

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia welcomed Amanda Zhang as the new CEO and President this week. Zhang has achieved several notable accomplishments throughout her career, which include the execution of the “Journey to China” international project. She succeeded Sagree Sardien, who will now handle the role of Head of Region Overseas, Mercedes-Benz Cars in Stuttgart.

Goodyear Malaysia to launch new tyres next month

One of Malaysia’s leading premium tyre makers, Goodyear celebrates its 125th anniversary this year. To mark the occasion, the company will be introducing its latest innovative tyre range next month. Goodyear claims that the range has been “meticulously designed to meet the evolving needs of customers and provide an unmatched driving experience in terms of performance, precision, and safety.”

International news

Toyota Rangga breaks cover at GIIAS 2023

Toyota unveiled some amazing concept models at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show 2023, including Rangga and Fortuner Flex Fuel. The former is a multi-purpose truck concept that can be customised according to the customers’ needs. Some of the possible iterations of the truck mentioned by Toyota are - Mobile Café, Ambulance, EV Mobile Service, and Pace Car. While the automaker did not reveal anything about the mechanical specifications of the truck, it confirmed that the vehicle will enter into production in the near future.

Toyota Fortuner Flex Fuel revealed

The other exciting Toyota model on display at the show was the Fortuner Flex Fuel. It is an environment-friendly version of the popular Fortuner that runs on bio-ethanol fuel made up of organic materials. The modified 2.7-litre, four-cylinder engine of the vehicle generates a maximum power of 161 bhp and a peak torque of 243 Nm. Toyota confirmed that the Fortuner Flex Fuel is currently in the prototype stage.

Chery introduces the Omoda 5 electric SUV

Chery also pulled the wraps of the Omoda 5 EV at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show. It is a right-hand drive version of the model revealed in China earlier this year. Powering the electric Omoda 5 is an electric motor generating 221 hp. It is paired with a 61 kWh battery pack that lets the EV cruise up to 450 km on a single charge. The EV is slated to launch in Indonesia in early 2024.

MG4 EV XPower debuts in Indonesia

MG introduced the all-new MG4 EV XPower during the auto show in Indonesia. Based on the brand’s Modular Scalable Platform, the MG4 EV XPower is a high-performance version of the standard MG4 EV. It is powered by a dual-motor setup combinedly producing 435 PS and 600 Nm. The motors are fed by a 64-kWh battery pack, offering a range of 452 km.

Aston Martin DB12 Volante unveiled

Aston Martin introduced the drop-top version of its first super-tourer DB12 revealed three months ago. Dubbed as the DB12 Volante, the new convertible model comes equipped with an electrically-operated fabric roof that takes 14 seconds to open and 16 seconds to close when driving at a speed of up to 50 kmph. Touted as Aston Martin’s most powerful V8 convertible GT, the new DB12 Volante comes powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 cranking out a maximum power of 680 hp and a peak torque of 800 Nm.

That’s all for the week. For further updates on the auto industry, stay tuned with us.

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