Weekly wrapup: Proton X90, 2023 Peugeot 2008 SE, & 2023 Toyota Yaris launch, Honda May 2023 promo

This past week was quite busy for the Malaysian auto industry as we saw quite a few car launches and updates. For instance, Proton Malaysia launched one of the most anticipated models in its lineup, the X90. Peugeot and Toyota also introduced the 2008 SE edition and 2023 Yaris in Malaysia. The motorcycle arena welcomed several models as well, both high-end and mainstream.

Local auto news

Proton X90 SUV launch

One of the major events happening last week was the launch of the Proton X90. The third model in Proton’s X series (after X70 and X50) made its arrival alongside prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Offered in four variant options (Standard, Executive, Premium, and Flagship), of which three are 7-seat (2-3-2) and one in 6-seat (2-2-2) configuration. All the trims are powered by a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged GDI engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system. The total system output rests at 190 PS and 300 Nm of torque. The drive is sent to the wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission with manual mode.

Some of the key highlights are - LED headlights, LED DRL, LED fog lamps, front sequential turn indicators, Drive mode selection (Eco, Comfort, and Sport), Cruise control with speed limiter, 12.3-inch touchscreen central infotainment display, Dual-zone auto air-conditioning with N95 cabin air filter, Rear air-conditioning with second/third-row air vents, and more. The car’s standard safety profile includes six airbags (front, side, and curtain), ABS, EBD, ESC, traction control, brake assist, hill-hold assist, hill descent control, two front & four rear parking sensors, Rear collision warning (RCW), Lane change assist (LCA), Rear cross-traffic alert (RTCA), and more.

2023 Peugeot 2008 SE introduced

Official distributor of Peugeot vehicles in Malaysia recently launched the new 2008 Special Edition (SE) in the local market. Based on the ongoing Allure trim, the SE model adds a stylish package that improves the car's aesthetics. Part of this is a black garnish on the bumpers & sides, 17-inch black wheels, an ‘SE’ badge on the front fenders, and decals on the bonnet & rear quarters. The SE package costs RM 2,900 and includes a 1-year/20,000km warranty. Also part of the kit is keyless entry and engine start, passive cruise control, electronic parking, single-zone climate control, mood lighting, and more.

Toyota bZ4X coming soon to Malaysia

Toyota Malaysia is planning to launch the all-new bZ4X in the country this year and as part of the preparation it has begun testing the car on the local roads. The car will help Toyota support Malaysia’s goal to become a carbon-neutral nation by 2050. Two units of the car are currently on display at UMWT’s Shah Alam office, both featuring a 204 PS/266 Nm e-motor and front-wheel drive. The e-motor is powered by a 71.4 kWh lithium-ion battery which offers a range of up to 500 km.

2023 GAC GS3 confirmed for Malaysia

Starting in April 2024, Malaysia will see GAC cars roll out from the Tan Chong plant in Segambut. With sales commencing in mid-2024, this whole thing is a pretty big achievement for the brand, as it is GAC's first-ever CKD project outside China. The first car to enter the market will be the next-gen GAC GS3 SUV. Sitting on the company’s latest GPMA platform, the car measures 4,410 mm long, 1,850 mm wide, and its wheelbase stretches to 2,650 mm. Powering the upcoming GAC B-segment SUV will be a 1.5-litre turbo mill making 177 hp and 270 Nm of torque. The drive is transmitted to the front wheels via a 7-speed DCT.

2022 Perodua Alza wins Malaysia Good Design Award

The all-new Perodua Alza has been awarded the highest recognition by the government for the design industry, the Malaysia Good Design Award. It is a big achievement for the national automaker, as it is the only automotive brand to receive the award this year.

Honda Malaysia announces May 2023 promo

Honda Malaysia’s “Sambut Bersama Bonus” monthly promo for May 2023 has been announced and concerns Honda cars registered in May 2023. The promo offers total savings of up to RM 6,000 and includes models like City, CR-V, Accord, and City Hatchback. Not all cars will have MY2023 on their certificate.

Hap Seng Smart is Pro-Net’s first authorized dealer

Proton New Energy Technology has announced Hap Seng Smart as its first authorized dealer of smart EVs. Hep Seng Smart’s first smart outlet is scheduled to open its doors in the fourth quarter of 2023 at Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. The next showrooms will open up in Balakong, Selangor; located within the existing Hap Seng Star Balakong Autohaus.

Porsche Malaysia upgrades its high-performance charging facilities

In a move to enhance the country’s electric vehicle infrastructure, Sime Darby Auto Performance has upgraded Porsche Malaysia’s high-performance charger (HPC) facilities. The move has upgraded the output to 350 kW from the new double-output charger units. In addition to uprated DC chargers, new solar panel car port have also been installed to capture solar energy.

Toyota Hilux & Fortuner prices revised in Malaysia

UMW Toyota Motor this past week announced the revised prices for two of its popular models, the Hilux and Fortuner. The Fortuner price has been hiked by RM 5000 for the 2.4 AT 4×4 and 2.8 VRZ AT 4×4 variants. As for the Hilux, the price has gone up by RM 5000 for the 2.4 Single Cab 4×4 MT, and 2.4E 4×4 manual & automatic version. A RM 6000 hike applies to Hilux 2.4V 4×4 AT and 2.8 Rogue 4×4 AT.

GWM Haval previews three cars in Malaysia

At the recently concluded Malaysia Autoshow 2023, GWM unveiled three highly anticipated models, namely the Haval H6, Haval Jolion, and GWM Cannon. Part of the brand's Intelligent New Energy Vehicles, all three come equipped with innovative technology and outstanding craftsmanship.

Ferrari gets a new distributor in Malaysia

Ferrari Malaysia ended its long-term partnership with Naza Italia on April 8 and now after a month of separation, the automaker has a new partner. The Italian automaker in its recent publication announced Ital Auto Malaysia as its new official and authorized importer for its vehicle in the country, effective May 5, 2023.

2023 Toyota Yaris launched in Malaysia

Toyota Malaysia has updated the Yaris hatchback for the model year 2023. The all-new Yaris now drops the base J variant with E now being entry-level and G, the range-topping model. Powering the new Yaris is a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine making 107 PS and 140 Nm of torque. The drive is sent to the front wheels via a CVT unit with a 7-speed Shiftmatic mode. Both the E and G trims now come with Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced driver assistance features.

Three new BYD 3S centers open in Malaysia

BYD’s official distributor in Malaysia, Sime Darby Motors (SDM) has opened three new 3S centers in the Klang Valley; located in Ara Damansara, Glenmarie, and Cheras. The new centers feature several amenities like comfortable lounges, charging bays, complimentary WiFi service, and refreshments.

New motorcycle launches in Malaysia

This week the Malaysia motorcycle arena saw several launches including the 2023 BMW Motorrad R1250R, BMW Motorrad R1250RS, 2023 WMoto Gemma 125 scooter, 2023 Suzuki V-Strom 1050de, 2023 Yamaha ‘Tech Art’ Doxou Y16ZR limited edition, and the 2023 CF Moto XO Papio.

International news

Honda e:Ny1 EV unveiled

Honda has unveiled its all-new electric compact SUV, the e:Ny1. Showcased at a media event in Germany, it is the brand’s second EV in Europe. Built on the all-new e:N Architecture, the EV is powered by a single e-moto making 204 hp and 310 Nm of torque. Part of the pack is a 68.8 kWh battery pack offering 412 km of range.

Aston Martin DBX 707 AMR23 Edition debuts

The British luxury performance automaker, Aston Martin, has revealed a new limited edition luxury SUV, called AMR23 Edition. Under the hood lies a 707 hp/900 Nm 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine paired to a 9-speed automatic gearbox. This configuration allows the car to complete a century sprint in just 3.3 seconds.

VW ID.7 GTX teased

 

After unveiling the all-electric ID.7 sedan in April, Volkswagen has teased its even hotter version, called the ID.7 GTX. Though the automaker has not revealed many details about the new EV, VW has given out just a few details about the car. The ID.7 GTX gets sporty touches including black gloss elements, a black roof, and darkened windows.

Also Read: Malaysia Autoshow 2023: Top Motorcycle/scooter launches