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  2025 Zeekr 7X launched in Malaysia, from RM179.8k

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  BYD Seal updated in Malaysia, from RM172k

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  Ford Ranger WildTrak 3.0 V6 TD launched, RM193k

Latest Stories

• 2025 Nissan Navara X-Tremer in Malaysia – new exterior trim, more premium interior, from RM135k

  In Cars, Local News, Nissan / by Mick Chan / 29 August 2025 8:01 pm

  

  Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has introduced the Nissan Navara X-Tremer, the latest addition to the brand’s pick-up truck range in Malaysia.

  The Navara X-Tremer brings an exterior and interior trim package that is available in three variants; the 2.5L Turbo V at RM134,800 (RM136,850 in East Malaysia), the 2.5L Turbo VL at RM146,900 (RM148,950), and the 2.5L Turbo Pro-4X at RM154,800 (RM156,850). Prices are on-the-road without insurance for private individual registration.

  This would appear rather similar in terms of darkened elements specified on the Black Edition variant of 2023 at first glance, though there are differences; incidentally, X-Tremer prices match those of the of the V and VL variants of the Black Edition.

  The X-Tremer gets a black grille and “X-formation” black bumper cladding that brings the darkened sections higher up to join the front grille, while the black over-fender elements are joined by carbon-fibre-look fender garnish. Also on are the shark fin antenna, black rear bumper and tailgate decal for the X-Tremer.

  Inside, the cabin gains soft-touch material for the dashboard with double stitching, and the leather-trimmed steering wheel gets a smooth-grain finish. Quole Modure stain-resistant upholstery features for the Zero Gravity front seats and rear seats in selected variants, while the eight-inch infotainment unit supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

  

  

  Powertrain for the V, VL and Pro-4X variants that offer the basis for the X-Tremer continues to be the YD25 2.5 litre inline-four cylinder turbodiesel engine that outputs 190 PS at 3,600 rpm and 450 Nm at 2,000 rpm, with outputs going to the driven wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual override, plus an electronically-locking rear differential.

  Chassis specifications for the X-Tremer is standard NP300 Navara fare, bringing a double-wishbone layout in front and coil-sprung multi-link rear layout for the rear; braking is by disc brakes in front and drum brakes at the rear.

  For ADAS kit, the Navara X-Tremer gets front collision warning, AEB, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, among others. Also on are ABS, EBD, brake assist, stability control and traction control, hill start assist, hill descent control and trailer sway assist.

  Edaran Tan Chong Motor is currently offering the Nissan Navara X-Tremer – across the aforementioned V, VL and Pro-4X variants – with a cash rebate of RM8,000.

  To recap, the Navara X-Tremer starts from the 2.5L Turbo V at RM134,800 (RM136,850 in East Malaysia), the 2.5L Turbo VL at RM146,900 (RM148,950), and the 2.5L Turbo Pro-4X at RM154,800 (RM156,850). Prices are on-the-road without insurance for private individual registration.

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• Motor insurance claims process will now be fairer, quicker and more transparent for all motorists – BNM

  In Local News / by Anthony Lim / 29 August 2025 7:43 pm

  

  Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) says that enhancements that have been made to the Policy Document on Claims Settlement Practices (PDCSP) will make the motor insurance claims process fairer, quicker and more transparent for all motorists.

  These revisions were outlined by Lailatul Akma, deputy director of BNM’s Consumer & Market Conduct Department, in a BFM Morning Run programme broadcast earlier today. She said the changes were aimed at simplifying procedures, improving service standards and accelerating approvals for motor insurance claims.

  She said the central bank has been working closely with insurers, the transport ministry, JPJ, Puspakom as well as repairers to make the process simpler and more user-friendly.

  “One of the key improvements consumers can expect from the revised claims settlement practices policy document is a faster turnaround time, which sets clearer expectations for insurance providers to simplify the claim process so that consumers can benefit from fair, transparent and a timely claims outcome,” she said.

  “The revised policy has reduced the timelines for each stage of the claims process from claims notification until claims payment, including how quickly insurers have to get back to you so that you are not left waiting in the dark,” she added.

  

  “For example, the time taken for own damage claims have been reduced by 20 working days and the time to claim for theft has been reduced for about 80 working days. So we expect this will help to cut the average time taken to settle motor claims by about half,” she continued.

  Lailatul said that motorists who are not at fault in a vehicle accident can claim their own insurance without risk of losing their no claim discount (NCD) under the Own Damage Knock-For-Knock (ODKFK) policy.

  She said that motorists with a comprehensive policy can claim directly from their own insurer without having to fork out the repair costs or wait for the other party’s insurer to process the claim. This will allow vehicle owners to carry out repairs to their vehicles quickly. All a motorist has to do is submit a police report and other required documents to their insurer to facilitate a claim.

  However, she said the ODKFK policy doesn’t apply in blanket fashion, and if the accident involves a bus or taxi or results in any injury, the affected motorist will have to claim from the party at fault’s insurer. “But for most everyday cases in accidents involving vehicles, ODKFK is a much smoother way to get your car fixed and back on the road,” she said.

  She also said that all insurance companies are now required to provide 24/7 roadside assistance services, be it through their mobile applications or websites. The move is aimed at helping motorists by limiting the engagement they usually have with unauthorised tow trucks following an accident.

  

  Lailatul said that the policy has also introduced a new requirement, where insurers are expected to establish a motor customer service charter, which should provide greater certainty and transparency to consumers on the claims process.

  This, she said, spells out very clearly what kind of service you can expect when making a claim, and consumers should be able to access the charter easily as insurers are required to publish it on their website. “For example, you can find the service standard and turnaround time for the entire claim process in the charter, including applicable criteria and thresholds for expedited or fast track claims,” she said.

  “So with the charter, you can hold your insurer responsible and accountable if they do not adhere to their own standards and timelines or fail to keep you informed. So at the end of the day, the charter takes the uncertainty out of ‘how long will this take’ or ‘what can I expect’ and that really empowers consumers when dealing with claims,” she added.

  In cases where consumers are dissatisfied with their insurance decision, she said there were options to help address this. “The first thing you can do is complain to the insurer’s complaints unit. Their contact should be published clearly on their website as required by the complaints handling policy which we issued,” she said.

  “Your insurer should also respond to you within 14 working days, and the good news is that we are shortening this to five working days from April next year,” she said.

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• EKVE East Klang Valley Expressway – Section 1 Sg Long-Ampang opens 6am August 30; FOC til Sept 30

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 29 August 2025 6:47 pm

  

  The East Klang Valley Expressway (EKVE) has been launched today by Malaysian prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, with works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi. The Section 1 alignment of the highway will be open to public from 6am tomorrow, August 30, 2025, and passage along the highway will be toll-free from its opening until 11:59pm, September 30, 2025.

  The EKVE is a dual-carriageway with two lanes in each direction, and includes four interchanges. These are the Sungai Long interchange, Bandar Mahkota Cheras interchange, Hulu Langat interchange and the Ampang interchange. The highway also features four toll plazas and two lay-bys.

  This highway employs a closed-toll system, and each of the four toll plazas is equipped with radio frequency identification (RFID) and automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems, in line with plans for the future implementation of multi-lane fast flow (MLFF) highway operation in the future, said LLM.

  

  This highway alignment is part of the Kuala Lumpur Outer Ring Road (KLORR) that aims to disperse traffic around the fringes of the Klang Valley without requiring motorists to enter the city centre, according to the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM). This is anticipated to shorten travel times from Ampang to Kajang to 20 minutes compared to currently available routes, LLM added.

  The opening of this highway alignment offers motorists an easier alternative route from Kajang and Semenyih to Hulu Langat, Bandar Mahkota Cheras and Ampang, and vice versa. This also provides connectivity to the Kajang-Silk Highway and the Sungai Besi-Ulu Kelang Elevated Expressway (SUKE) on Jalan Ampang, LLM stated.

  

  

  Section 1 of the EKVE is comprised of 16.8 km of the main carriageway and 8.4 km of connecting roads for the four interchanges, beginning at the Sungai Long interchange and ending at the Ampang interchange. The two lay-bys are located in Hulu Langat, and facilities offered include surau, toilets, food trucks and RFID fitment centres.

  Section 2, which will connect the Section 1 route to Ukay Perdana, is currently under active development and it will complete the full 39 km route as laid out in the original development plan, Nanta said.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• Hyundai Motor Malaysia sponsors Selangor FC – club’s Official Mobility Partner hands over Staria MPV

  In Cars, Hyundai, Local News / by Danny Tan / 29 August 2025 4:24 pm

  

  Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) is now the official mobility partner of Selangor FC after the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) and the handover of a Hyundai Staria to the Malaysia Super League team this morning.

  The documents were signed by HMY president Eric Lee and Selangor FC’s CEO Dr Johan Kamal Hamidon, witnessed by Raja Muda Selangor Tengku Amir Shah Ibni Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj. The MoU formalises the collaboration announced earlier this month.

  Eagle-eyed fans would have noticed Hyundai’s logo on the Red Giants’ polo tees at the team’s season opener against JDT (which is sponsored by Toyota) on August 8. Fans can look forward to seeing this presence expand across training jerseys and matchday experiences in the months ahead, HMY says.

  

  

  “Globally, Hyundai’s belief in evolving alongside sport and its communities is reflected through decades of investment in football. Our involvement goes beyond performance, it’s about people, stories, and progress. Football reflects resilience, teamwork and unity, values that mirror our own,” said Jahabarnisa Haja Mohideen, HMY’s MD.

  “Here in Malaysia, this vision takes on a greater meaning as we join hands with Selangor FC, a club whose legacy and ambition embody the very spirit of our brand vision Progress for Humanity,” she added.

  “We are delighted to welcome Hyundai Motor Malaysia as our official mobility partner. This partnership is not just about brand visibility – it’s about aligning with a global leader in mobility solutions that share our values of performance, innovation, and passion. As we compete in both the Malaysia Football League and the ACC Shopee Cup, Hyundai’s support will be instrumental in helping us elevate Selangor FC to greater heights on and off the pitch,” Hamidon said.

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• BYD Atto 2 Review – best affordable EV in M’sia yet?

  In BYD, Car Reviews, Cars, Video Reviews, Videos / by Paul Tan / 29 August 2025 4:23 pm

  The BYD Atto 2 is one of the most interesting propositions for the electric SUV market in Malaysia. Although the list price is officially RM100k, an early bird package, valued at up to RM13,000, brings the effective price down to the RM85,000 range.

  The Atto 2 is a compact electric SUV, smaller than the Atto 3. Its exterior design is described as simple and unadventurous, which can be considered a good thing to ensure it has mass appeal. Full LED lighting at the front and a stylish full-width taillight at the rear give it a modern presence.

  While it may not turn heads with radical styling, its sensible proportions and neat lines create an impression of a mature and well-thought-out vehicle.

  Under the hood is a front-wheel-drive electric motor that produces 177 PS and 290 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds.

  The 51 kWh battery pack offers a real-world range of around 370 km. The vehicle supports both AC and DC fast charging. A full charge at home takes just under 8 hours, while a DC fast charge from 30% to 80% takes 28 minutes.

  On the interior, the layout is clean, dominated by BYD’s signature 13-inch rotating screen, now with seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

  For Malaysia, the BYD Atto 2 is sold with complimentary accessories including a vehicle-to-load (V2L) adapter and a Type 2 to three-pin plug cable. Warranty for the Atto 2 in Malaysia is six years or 150,000 km for the vehicle overall, eight years or 160,000 km for the high-voltage battery, and eight years or 150,000 km for the drive unit.

  In the end, the BYD Atto 2 is an excellent “starter EV” and a strong competitor in the Malaysian market. It offers a well-rounded package of speed, comfort, handling, and range for its price, setting a high bar for upcoming competitors. Watch the video review for Hafriz Shah’s full thoughts.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  
  

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• 2025 Audi Q3 Sportback unveiled – 29 mm lower roofline, offered with petrol, diesel, PHEV powertrains

  In Audi, Cars, Global Car Launches, International News / by Jonathan James Tan / 29 August 2025 3:58 pm

  

  Hot on the heels of the third-gen Audi Q3, which was revealed in June, is the version with the sportier roofline – the Audi Q3 Sportback. Technically in its second generation, the ‘coupe SUV’ offers the same petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains as its more upright sibling.

  That means a 150 PS/250 Nm 1.5 litre TFSI mild-hybrid with cylinder deactivation, a 2.0 litre TFSI in 204 PS/350 Nm and 265 PS/400 Nm states of tune (both with quattro all-wheel drive), a 150 PS/360 Nm 2.0 litre TDI and a PHEV (branded ‘e-hybrid’) that brings together a 130 PS/250 Nm 1.5 litre petrol and a 115 PS/330 Nm electric motor for 272 PS and 400 Nm of torque altogether. All get a seven-speed S tronic twin-clutcher.

  The PHEV’s 25.7 kWh (net 19.7 kWh) battery can charge at up to 50 kW DC and yield up to 118 km of EV-only range (one kilometre less than the non-Sportback Q3). The battery’s under the boot, so cargo volume is 375 litres, down from 488 in the non-hybrids.

  Notably, the Q3 and Q3 Sportback share the same boot volume with all seats up, despite the latter’s 29 mm lower roofline; it’s only when you fold the back seats down that the Q3 swallows 1,386 litres compared to the Sportback’s 1,289. We would expect less rear headroom in the Sportback, though.

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, detail view front

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, interior, detail view cockpit

  

  Madeira brown metallic, static shot, interior, detail: MMI touch display

  Looks wise, it’s all as per the Q3 – wider and slimmer Singleframe grille, segmented ‘digital’ DRL eyes, plus fake side air intakes which house the headlamps. Even the back has the same treatments – full-width rear light bar (although this is not standard across the range), ornamental rear bumper ‘vent’ and diffuser-like element.

  As with the Q3, you can spec your Sportback with matrix LED headlamps with micro LED technology (25,600 individual diodes), customisable OLED tail lamps, alloys ranging from 17 to 20 inches, acoustic front side windows, and standard, sports or adaptive suspension, with twin-valve adaptive dampers being optional.

  It’s also very much Q3 inside – curved ‘digital stage’ widescreen display panel (11.9-inch instrument cluster + 12.8-inch centre touch-screen), right-stalk column gear selector and left-stalk combined lights, indicators and wipers. We’d love to give this novel arrangement a try to see how intuitive, or otherwise, it is to operate.

  The new Audi Q3 Sportback is set to launch in November; a month after the Q3. It’ll start from 46,450 euros (RM229k), which is 1,850 euros more than the non-Sportback. The PHEV will cost 51,150 euros (RM252k) – the same premium over the Q3 SUV.

  2025 Audi Q3 Sportback

  

  Madeira brown metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, frontal view

  

  Madeira brown metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, sideview

  

  Madeira brown metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, frontal view

  

  Madeira brown metallic, static outdoor-shot, exterior, rear view

  

  Madeira brown metallic, static shot, interior, detail: MMI touch display

  
  

  

  Static shot, exterior, three-quarter view

  

  Sage green metallic and Progressive red metallic, exterior, three-quarter view from the rear

  

  Progressive red metallic, exterior, three-quarter view from the rear

  

  Static shot, exterior, sideview

  

  The illustration shows the function of the emergency assistant in the Audi Q3 Sportback.

  
  

  

  The illustration shows the active damping forces in the two-valve damping system whilst driving on an uneven road surface.

  

  The illustration shows the position of the cameras and sensors for the driver assistance systems. The detail view shows the location of the mid-range radar, which is mounted hidden from view behind the Audi rings.

  

  The illustration shows the function of the progressive steering in the Audi Q3 Sportback.

  

  The illustration shows the location of various controls and switches on the dashboard of the Audi Q3.

  

  The illustration shows the location of the acoustic glazing in the Audi Q3 Sportback, and a detail to show the layered construction of the acoustic glass.

  
  

  

  The illustration shows how the rear seat bench can be moved forward by 130 mm in the Audi Q3 Sportback.

  

  The illustration shows the design of the quattro drivetrain in the Audi Q3 Sportback TFSI quattro 195 kW.

  

  The illustration shows the layout of the quattro drivetrain in Audi Q3 Sportback TFSI quattro 195 kW with a detailed view of the electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch.

  

  The illustration shows the features of the center console in the Audi Q3 Sportback.

  
  

  2025 Audi Q3 Sportback e-hybrid PHEV

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, front three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor-shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, top view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, front three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, front three-quarter view

  
  

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, front three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, frontal view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, rear detail

  
  

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio-shot, exterior, front three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, frontal view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, rear view

  
  

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, side view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, frontal view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, detail view trunk lid

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, detail view front

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, detail view rear

  
  

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, detail view luggage compartment,

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, exterior, detail view wheels

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, interior, detail view front seats

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, interior, detail view front seats

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, interior, detail view rear seats

  
  

  

  Glacier white metallic, static studio shot, interior, detail view cockpit

  

  Glacier white metallic, dynamic outdoor shot, exterior, front three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, dynamic outdoor shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, dynamic outdoor shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, dynamic outdoor shot, exterior, front three-quarter view

  
  

  

  Glacier white metallic, dynamic outdoor shot, exterior, front three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, dynamic outdoor shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, dynamic outdoor shot, exterior, rear view

  

  Glacier white metallic, dynamic outdoor shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  

  Glacier white metallic, static outdoor shot, exterior, rear three-quarter view

  
  

  

  The illustration shows the design of the quattro drivetrain in the Audi Q3 Sportback e-hybrid 200 kW

  
  

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• Isuzu Malaysia opens Kuantan 3S centre by Dynamic Motors – full range of products, services covered

  In Isuzu, Local News / by Mick Chan / 29 August 2025 3:54 pm

  

  Isuzu Malaysia has announced the opening of its new 3S (sales, service and spare parts) centre in Kuantan, which is operated by Dynamic Motors.

  Located in the Semambu industrial area on the outskirts of Kuantan, the brand’s latest outlet features a 1,700 square-metre building situated on a 3,500 square-metre plot of land, and the Isuzu Kuantan 3S centre has been designed to the manufacturer’s latest corporate identity.

  The ground floor of the newly-opened 3S centre is dedicated to welcoming customers, with the mezzanine level housing the outlet’s administrative office. At ground level, customers arrive into a covered driveway, while within the building is a lounge with a drinks chiller and coffee machine.

  

  

  The showroom of the Isuzu Kuantan 3S centre accommodates room for two display vehicles in the facility, with e-brochure and virtual reality conveniences in addition to test drive opportunities that are offered for Isuzu vehicles.

  In addition to the D-Max range of pick-up trucks, the 3S centre by Dynamic Motors is a certified Isuzu Medium Heavy Duty (BHD) outlet, which enables the location to sell and service the full range of Isuzu vehicles, including the medium-duty Forward range and the heavy-duty Giga range of trucks.

  “With new and comprehensive outlets such as this latest Isuzu 3S Centre in Kuantan, we hope that our customers will be able to enjoy an elevated level of attention and service,” said Isuzu Malaysia CEO Tomoyuki Yamaguchi.

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• Celebrate Merdeka with the ultimate car care bundle from The Carage, priced at RM162 from Aug 31-Sept 16

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 29 August 2025 3:52 pm

  

  One-stop car care specialist The Carage has launched its own in-house range of car care products, crafted to heighten your car care experience to new levels of quality. Whether it’s a long road trip, or the daily hustle and bustle that you’re preparing for, The Carage has just the car care bundle for your needs.

  Building upon their experience from offering a wide selection of trusted brands from under one roof, the team at The Carage now takes the next step by developing and expanding its own product line-up. From essential wash solutions to smart detailing touches, the new collection delivers quality and convenience, bundled into one complete set in time for the nation’s Merdeka celebrations.

  Here’s what you’ll find in the new Car Care Bundle by The Carage:

  The Carage Golden Tangerine shampoo and conditioner (2L):
  Gently cleanses your vehicle while conditioning the paint for a smoother, glossier finish. Safe on all paint types.

  The Carage Double Wax Show Car Wash & Shine (500ml):
  Perfect for quick clean-ups without water. This dual-action formula lifts dirt and leaves a protective wax layer; ideal for busy lifestyles.

  The Carage Anti-Mist Glass Cleaner (500ml):
  Cleans without streaks and prevents misting; great for Malaysia’s humid conditions and rainy weather.

  The Carage All Surface Interior Cleaner With Anti-Dust Formula (500ml):
  Suitable for all interior surfaces including dashboards, screens, panels, and trims. Keeps your cabin dust-free and looking fresh.

  The Carage Premium Microfiber Towels in Tissue-Box Packaging (20pcs/Box):
  Smartly packed for convenience; just pull one out whenever you need it. No mess, no clutter.

  All of the above products come neatly packed in a reusable, recyclable bag, ensuring that your purchased bundle is practical and eco-conscious. Normally priced at RM230, the complete set is now being offered at a RM68 discount in conjunction with the nation’s 68th year of independence, bringing a price of RM162 from August 31 until September 16, 2025.

  Explore the latest from The Carage on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, and products by The Carage can be purchased from official Shopee and Lazada outlets. Head to the official The Carage website to find out more.

   

• 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance debuts – top-spec Juniper packs 460 hp; 0-100 in 3.5s, 250 km/h, 580 km

  In Cars, International News, Tesla Motors / by Gerard Lye / 29 August 2025 2:54 pm

  

  As teased previously, the latest Tesla Model Y Performance has made its debut as the top-spec variant in the Juniper facelift line-up. Launching in Europe, the Middle East and Africa first, the Model Y Performance shares quite a bit in common with the current-day Model 3 Performance while also gaining some improvements in other areas.

  Like its sedan stablemate, the fast SUV gets Tesla’s Performance 4DU drive system that sees two electric motors – one for each axle – provide a total output of 460 hp (343 kW). As such, the Model Y Performance needs 3.5 seconds to get from 0-100 km/h and has a top speed of 250 km/h.

  For context, the Long Range AWD variant we currently get here needs 4.8 seconds and maxes out at 201 km/h. Range is the price to pay for the added grunt, with the Performance providing up to 580 km following the WLTP standard instead of 600 km that you get from the Long Range AWD.

  According to Top Gear, the Performance gets an upgraded battery pack that doesn’t weigh more than what’s found in the standard Model Y, but is fitted with new cells that offer higher energy density.

  

  In addition to the electric motors, another piece of tech that the Model Y Performance takes from its Model 3 equivalent is the latter’s adaptive damping, which is paired with new springs, roll bars, bushings and improvements to the rear body structure for increased torsional stiffness.

  New options in the drive mode system enable drivers to choose from Standard or Sport settings for the adaptive suspension. Meanwhile, the car’s stability assist can be placed in Standard or Reduced modes, with the second option serving to reduce traction control interventions but keeps traction and vehicle dynamics controls active as safety nets if limits are exceeded.

  The Model Y Performance is identified by its new front and rear bumpers that reduce drag and lift, along with a carbon-fibre rear spoiler, all of which result in 10% less drag and 64% reduced lift for a 27% improvement overall in front-to-rear lift balance compared to previous model. Other touches include gloss black accents, red brake callipers, new 21-inch ‘Arachnid 2.0’ forged wheels, “not-a-Plaid” badge on the rear tailgate and Performance puddle lamps.

  As for the interior, there are aluminium pedals, carbon-fibre trim on the dashboard and door cards, and the front seats are of a Performance-specific design (check the badge on the seatback) with power-adjustable thigh support as well as heating and ventilation functions. The infotainment screen has also grown in size to 16 inches (from 15.4 inches), mimicking the unit found in the long-wheelbase Model Y L that launched in China recently. The new screen is said to pack nearly 80% more pixels.

  

  

  

  

  While the Model Y Performance will initially be launched in selected markets, we expect it to inevitably make its way to Malaysia. Expect it to cost more than the Long Range AWD variant, which is currently going for RM242,450. To extrapolate, the Model Y Performance in the United Kingdom is listed at 61,990 pounds (about RM354k), which is 10,000 pounds (RM57k) or 19% more than the one-step-below Long Range AWD at 51,990 pounds (RM297k).

  This represents the single largest jump in price between variants, as the price gap between the three options below the Performance is either 4,000 pounds (from the 44,990-pound RWD to the 48,990 pound Long Range RWD) or 3,000 pounds (from the Long Range RWD to the Long Range AWD), with the increments in percentage being 9% and 6% respectively.

  In Malaysia, the Model Y in Long Range AWD guise sells for RM242,450, which is RM47,000 or 24% more than the base RWD at RM195,450 – there are only two options currently. If we apply the UK’s 19% increase from the Long Range AWD to the Performance, we’re looking at a projected asking price of around RM288,500 for the Performance.

  For further context, if we look at the Model 3 sold here, the step up from the base RWD (RM181,000) to the Long Range AWD (RM210,000) is RM29,000 or 16%. From the Long Range AWD to the Performance is an additional RM32,000 or 15.2%.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  
  

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• 2026 Volvo XC70 officially debuts – extended-range PHEV; up to 212 km EV range, from RM177k in China

  In Cars, International News, Volvo / by Gerard Lye / 29 August 2025 2:01 pm

  

  Volvo has officially revealed the new XC70, which is now open for pre-orders in China (production has already started there) and will be introduced in Europe at a later stage. Recycling a nameplate it has used in the past, Volvo’s latest model is built on its new Scalable Modular Architecture (SMA) platform and is designed to meet the demand for longer-range plug-in hybrids (also referred to as range-extended plug-in hybrids or RE-PHEVs), particularly in China.

  Powertrain details are limited if we refer to the company’s global release, which merely mentions a CLTC-rated electric driving range of over 200 km, a hybrid range of over 1,200 km with the range-extender engine in play, and the ability to fast charge the battery from 0-80% in 23 minutes – the last bit is a first for a Volvo plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model.

  Thankfully, Volvo’s China website has more information about the XC70’s powertrain, which features up to three electric motors and comes in two configurations. On the latter, the (presumably) base setup has two electric motors at the front, with one being linked to the combustion engine to generate electricity for a 21.2-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.

  The battery powers a second electric motor that actually drives the front wheels and is rated at 318 PS (314 hp or 234 kW), enabling a 0-100 km/h time of eight seconds. This variant, known as the ‘Two-wheel drive long-range’ when translated directly, provides a CLTC-rated range of 116 km and returns a WLTP-rated fuel consumption of 1.27 litres per 100 km.

  

  Meanwhile, the second variant’s name directly translates to ‘Four-wheel drive long-range’ and comes with a higher-capacity 39.6-kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery for more electric-only range at 212 km (CLTC). The (presumably) top-spec option also gets a third electric motor in the rear for all-wheel drive, bringing its total system output to 462 PS (456 hp or 340 kW).

  With more grunt, the 0-100 km/h time is reduced to 5.3 seconds, and fuel consumption is reduced to 0.98 litres per 100 km (WLTP). This variant also gets an additional Off-Road drive mode in addition to Hybrid, Sport and Electric.

  CarNewsChina reports the XC70 features a 1.5 litre turbocharged engine mated to a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (3DHT). The engine outputs 163 PS (161 hp or 120 kW) and 255 Nm of torque, while the electric motors are rated at 82 PS (80 hp or 60 kW), 145 PS (143 hp or 107 kW) and 212 PS (209 hp or 156 kW).

  As for charging, Volvo says that with a 7 kW AC charger, it’ll take four hours to fully charge (0-100%) the 2WD Long Range’s 21.2-kWh battery, with the 4WD Long Range’s 39.6-kWh battery requiring seven hours.

  

  

  

  With DC fast charging at 87 kW, the 4WD Long Range’s battery can get from 0-80% in about 23 minutes. Meanwhile, it’s 39 minutes for the 2WD Long Range to do the same, although Volvo’s disclaimer did not indicate the charger output – we assume it accepts a lower rate. It’s also revealed that both powertrains are based on a 400-volt electrical architecture and includes a 60-litre fuel tank

  On the matter of pricing, the pre-sale figure for the 2WD Long Range in China is 299,900 yuan (about RM177k), while the 4WD Long Range is 329,900 yuan (RM194k). Early birds will also enjoy four pre-sale benefits worth over 20,000 yuan (RM12k), and there are seven exterior colours to choose from.

  Positioned between the XC60 and XC90, the XC70 measures 4,815 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, 1,650 mm tall and has a wheelbase spanning 2,895 mm. The five-seat model offers 408 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,456 litres with the rear seats down.

  On the mention of the interior, the XC70 sports a simple dashboard design that has zero physical controls. Accessing the climate system and other vehicle functions is done via a large 15.4-inch central touchscreen, which is in a landscape orientation instead of portrait as it is in other Volvo models.

  

  

  

  

  Joining the big infotainment display is a configurable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a head-up display with augmented reality. Other noteworthy features include a dual-tier centre console that has tactile media controls, cupholders, a lower covered storage area and wireless charging pad. Triple-zone climate control with rear vents and control panel, a panoramic glass roof, mood lighting themes and a Harman Kardon sound system are also present.

  As for the exterior, the XC70 wears the Swedish brand’s iconic Iron Mark and diagonal bar at the front, flanked the Thor’s Hammer daytime running light signature that is now separated from the main headlamps that sit further down – similar to the EM90 electric MPV.

  Along the sides, the window line that tapers upwards towards the rear is a nod to the EX90, while the rear end features one-piece vertically oriented tail lamps with accompanying light bars extending into the tailgate.

  “The new XC70 is a very attractive choice for customers who want the benefits of electric driving but are not yet ready to go fully electric. It is a cornerstone of our electrified product portfolio, a bridge to fully electric cars for our customers, and it will strengthen our presence in the world’s largest car market,” said Hakan Samuelsson, president and CEO of Volvo Cars.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  
  

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• Transport ministry reviewing vehicle safety standards in Malaysia for assistance and detection systems

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 29 August 2025 12:29 pm

  

  New international vehicle safety requirements are being considered for possible implementation in Malaysia, said the transport ministry, reported The Star.

  The road transport department (JPJ) has been tasked with assessing the suitability of these safety requirements for domestic application, and the proposed regulations are from United Nations (UN) standards, the transport ministry stated.

  These standards include UN R139 for brake assist systems, UN R151 for blind spot information systems for detecting bicycles, UN R157 for automated lane keeping systems and UN R166 for the detection of vulnerable road users in close proximity to the vehicle.

  The transport ministry made the statement in response to Merbok member of parliament Mohd Nazri Abu Hassan, who asked if the latest vehicle safety technology would be made mandatory for all heavy vehicles in the country, in light of concern for incidents involving heavy vehicles.

  High-profile incidents this year which involved heavy vehicles included the Gerik bus crash that claimed 15 lives, while another incident involving two heavy vehicles resulted in the deaths of nine Federal Reserve Unit (FRU) members.

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• Robot vacuum maker Dreame going into EVs – first model to be Veyron-rivalling “world’s fastest car”

  In Cars, International News / by Jonathan James Tan / 29 August 2025 12:24 pm

  

  Suzhou-based home cleaning equipment maker Dreame has announced that it’s going into EVs, and its first model, expected in 2027, will be something ultra-luxurious in the vein of the Bugatti Veyron – in other words, it aims to be the fastest car in the world, reports CnEVPost. Talk about plunging into the deep end!

  “Today, Dreame officially announces its entry into automotive manufacturing to build the world’s fastest car. We may not be the earliest to embark on this journey, but we will be the most determined,” the company said, adding that the car will be powered by Dreame’s super motors and be integrated seamlessly with users’ smart homes and mobile devices.

  Dreame acknowledges that China’s automotive industry is now extremely competitive, but it says it has put together a nearly-1,000-strong automotive team (and counting) and that its plans to venture into cars date back to 2013. Highlighting its leadership in China’s cleaning sector, Dreame says it will use the right products, strategy and pace to bring China-made products to the world’s high-end markets.

  Lalamove, Xiaomi, Huawei, Sony Honda, even the old Renault Samsung – any more non-car brands involved in car-making you can think of?

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• Works ministry to expand MyJalan app into a national database for road infrastructure management, repairs

  In Local News / by Anthony Lim / 29 August 2025 11:04 am

  

  The works ministry (KKR) has announced that the MyJalan application will be expanded from its scope as a public complaints platform for reporting road damage into a comprehensive national database for road infrastructure management across Malaysia, as Bernama reports.

  According to works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, the move is aimed at addressing the critical challenge of there being no standardised and holistic data in current road management systems, with the idea that an integrated approach would allow for better coordination of road maintenance.

  He said that comprehensive data would enable more accurate and efficient maintenance intervention to be made across all road networks. “With structured and comprehensive data, only then can we plan how to ensure that roads, regardless of which agency they fall under, are safe and comfortable for all road users,” he said.

  At present, federal roads are under KKR jurisdiction, and those not under it are municipal, village, agricultural, state and private roads managed by local councils, the housing and local government ministry (KPKT), the rural and regional development ministry (KKDW) and state governments.

  

  As reported earlier, since the app’s launch in August 2023, a total of 40,938 road-related complaints had been received from 54,330 users as of July 31 this year, Federal roads accounted for 30.4% of these complaints, while state-administered and other roads comprised the remaining 69.6%.

  Working towards that expansion, the ministry held an engagement session, which brought together various stakeholders including federal ministries and agencies, state agencies in Sabah and Sarawak, state secretary offices, land and mines offices, local authorities and concession companies.

  Nanta said the dialogue received positive feedback from all state governments and local authority representatives present during the session. He said additional engagement sessions will be conducted to refine the system’s implementation before presenting it to the cabinet at the end of the year.

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• Nissan GT-R production has ended after 18 years – 48,000 units; final car is a Premium Edition T-Spec

  In Cars, International News, Nissan / by Gerard Lye / 29 August 2025 10:56 am

  

  With its departure from several markets over the past few years, it was already known that the R35 Nissan GT-R was on its way out. This has now happened, as Nissan recently announced that production of the GT-R for the Japan domestic market – the final sales region for the model – has officially ended.

  Over the 18 years it has been in production, approximately 48,000 GT-Rs rolled off the line at Nissan’s Tochigi plant, with the final unit being a Premium Edition T-Spec variant finished in Midnight Purple that will be handed over to a customer in Japan.

  “After 18 remarkable years, the R35 GT-R has left an enduring mark on automotive history. Its legacy is a testament to the passion of our team and the loyalty of our customers around the globe. Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey. To the many fans of the GT-R worldwide, I want to tell you this isn’t a goodbye to the GT-R forever, it’s our goal for the GT-R nameplate to one day make a return,” said Ivan Espinosa, president and CEO of Nissan.

  The production version of the GT-R was first unveiled at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show and marked a departure from past GT-R models that were part of the Skyline line-up. In the time it has been on sale, the GT-R has received several technical updates and facelifts, the latest of the latter introduced in 2023.

  

  The VR38DETT has been at the heart of the 2+2 sports car/grand tourer for nearly two decades, with a core group of just nine Takumi (a Japanese word that means artisan or master craftsman) responsible for assembling every single 3.8 litre twin-turbo V6 that went into the 48,000 cars produced – it takes around six hours to assemble each engine by hand. Initially producing 480 PS, continuous updates saw peak output rise to 570 PS, with the newest Nismo versions packing 600 PS.

  The GT-R announced itself to the world in grand fashion when it set a lap time of seven minutes and 38 seconds at the Nurburgring Nordschleife in 2007, returning a year later to shave nine seconds. In 2009, the GT-R returned to The Green Hell again to set an even faster lap time of seven minutes and 26 seconds.

  Three years after that, the GT-R improved its time again to seven minutes and 18 seconds in October 2012, with another run taking place in November 2013. This final-ever attempt saw a GT-R Nismo equipped with track options and a tuned suspension system manage a time of seven minutes and 8.679 seconds, the R35’s best-ever time at the iconic circuit.

  In its home country, a GT-R Nismo broke the production car lap record at the Tsukuba Circuit in December 2019 with a time of 59.361 seconds. A newer version of the car would return for another attempt in January 2024, breaking the record with a time of 59.078 seconds.

  

  

  

  Like its predecessors, the GT-R dabbled in motorsports and found success, with its list of achievements including five GT500 class and three GT300 class wins in Japan’s Super GT Championship, victory in the 2013 Blancpain GT Series Pro-Am class, a Bathurst 12-hour victory in 2015 and five Super Taikyu Japanese endurance racing series victories.

  The GT-R also remains the Guiness World Record holder for the fastest vehicle drift, with a specially-prepared example going sideways at a speed of 304.96 km/h and 30-degree angle – this record was set in 2016 at special event that took place at Fujairah International Airport, UAE.

  While the sun has set on the GT-R, Nissan says it remains committed to the nameplate with a vision to reimagine it for a new generation. An all-new GT-R has been talked about for many, many, many years, although there have been no official details for now and there won’t be for some time.

  “We understand the expectations are high, the GT-R badge is not something that can be applied to just any vehicle; it is reserved for something truly special and the R35 set the bar high. So, all I can ask is for your patience. While we don’t have a precise plan finalised today, the GT-R will evolve and re-emerge in the future,” Espinosa said.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  
  

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• PLUS Malaysia expects up to 2.2 million vehicles on highways for Merdeka weekend; mobile app updated

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 29 August 2025 10:48 am

  

  PLUS Malaysia expects traffic on its highways to reach 2.2 million vehicles daily on the long weekend of the 68th Merdeka celebration, New Straits Times has reported.

  Highway users have been advised to plan their journeys ahead of time to ensure smoother travel during the period from today until Monday, September 1.

  PLUS Malaysia stated that unlike during festive seasons when peak travel days are pre-determined, the highway operator will continuously monitor traffic and update peak-period traffic advice to offer motorists the most relevant highway travel information.

  Meanwhile, the highway operator has also announced an update for the MyPLUS-TTA feature within the PLUS mobile application. This enables users to save favourite routes to the app for quicker access, and a real-time alert display that will provide traffic updates directly on the search results page, according to PLUS Malaysia.

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