The ministry of finance (MoF) today held a media briefing to provide more details about the new Budi Madani Diesel scheme, which will see the price of subsidised diesel be lowered to RM2.10 per litre starting from July 1, 2026. This price will only apply to B10 or higher blends of diesel, while the B7 blend will remain unsubsidised.
Another thing to note is that while the RM2.10 per litre price starts from July 1, there will be an “early access” of sorts, where Malaysians in Peninsular Malaysia can purchase subsidised diesel at the same price as in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan at RM2.15 per litre.
This starts from June 27, so it’s a short window of RM2.15 per litre before the price goes down to the headline RM2.10 per litre. Effectively, the government is standardising the price of subsidised diesel nationwide instead of limiting it to Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan, which have enjoyed RM2.15 per litre diesel for some time.
According to the ministry, the mechanism for accessing subsidised diesel is similar to that of the Budi Madani RON 95 (Budi95) scheme. The basic requirements for Budi95 are that you must be a Malaysian citizen with a valid identity card (MyKad) and driving licence (LMM). Foreigners will of course not get any subsidised diesel.
For Budi Madani Diesel, there is an additional requirement in that that you must personally own a diesel vehicle, meaning it is registered in your name, and it must have a valid road tax (LKM). The finance ministry added that it is pulling data from JPJ to validate this aspect, which means that if you drive a family vehicle that is not registered under your name, you won’t be able to fill up with subsidised diesel, not with your MyKad or fuel apps.
Like Budi95, apps like Setel should be updated with to reflect this new Budi Madani Diesel, which means doing an e-KYC digital identity verification process if you haven’t already
As with Budi95, there is a quota that limits how much subsidised diesel you can buy. Beyond the allotted amount, you’re paying the unsubsidised price at the time. That quota is 200 litres, which is shared with Budi95.
Put simply, you’re not being provided an additional quota of 200 litres of subsidised diesel on top of 200 litres of subsidised RON 95 petrol. It’s a collective 200 litres in total for both fuels, and it’s up to you to decide how you want to use it.
Should you require a higher quota, and you happen to use a pick-up truck or jip for work or business purposes, you can apply for an additional 100 litres per month starting from today via budidiesel.gov.my. Eligibility for the additional quota is determined on a case-to-case basis, meaning you will need a valid reason for your application to be approved.
We should point out that the aforementioned website was where Malaysians applied for the Budi Diesel Individu cash assistance, which was at RM400 at last count, but this scheme will be phased out because the ministry deemed it to be ineffective.
As previously indicated, amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) have been tabled for its first reading in parliament today. The changes that will be brought about by the Road Transport (Amendment) Act 2026 are aimed at strengthening authorities’ regulatory and enforcement powers.
Among the amendments in the bill, which was tabled by transport minister Anthony Loke, is Clause 15, which introduces a new Section 42A that has been brought about specifically to deal with the issue of illegal racing (or “speed trials”) by plugging existing loopholes.
Previously, action could only be taken under the offence of dangerous driving, which required proof of an accident or actual danger. This made it difficult for enforcement to act if there was no accident. With Section 42A, the act of racing or speeding itself will now be considered an offence, even if there is no accident (for example, two or more vehicles speeding competitively on a public road), providing a stronger legal basis to prosecute mat rempit.
As indicated in the bill, it states that any person involved in a race or speed trials between two or more motor vehicles is committing an offence and, upon conviction, is liable to a fine of not less than RM2,000 but not more than RM10,000, or imprisonment of up to two years, or both.
For a second or subsequent offence and conviction, the penalty is a fine of not less than RM5,000, but not more than RM20,000, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or both.
Loke said that the second reading for the amendment bill, which comprises 11 scopes covering 42 provisions or clauses, will be presented within the current parliamentary sitting.
PLUS has announced that the slip road from Persimpangan UPM to the UPM toll plaza, and the exit road from Persimpangan UPM to Kajang will be closed to all traffic every night, from 10pm to 5am. This will be in effect from June 22 (tonight) till June 28.
The E2 highway operator says that this closure is to facilitate the safe cutting of risky trees that line the route. Click on the image above for a better idea on which ramps are affected.
As an alternative, motorists are advised to use state roads to UPM and Kajang. PLUS says that at any one time, only one of the two ramps will be closed to ensure traffic smoothness and user comfort. It advises motorists to plan ahead and follow the signs at the work area.
Share this info with those who use the UPM interchange at night. Drive safe.
Rapid KL has introduced a new monthly pass priced at RM150, offering commuters unlimited rides across its rail and bus networks. Named Rapid Bulanan, this monthly pass can be purchased via the Touch ‘n Go eWallet mobile application on devices that support near-field communication (NFC).
The Rapid Bulanan pass is valid for 30 days and is open to purchase by non-citizens as well as Malaysian citizens, compared to the My50 pass that is exclusively for Malaysian citizens.
MyKad holders (Malaysian citizens) may still purchase the My50 pass after purchasing the Rapid Bulanan pass, according to the Touch ‘n Go eWallet mobile app. Physical passes continue to be available to purchase at Rapid KL station counters.
Users of the Rapid Bulanan pass have access to unlimited travel across LRT, MRT, Monorail, Sunway BRT, Rapid KL bus and MRT feeder services.
Here’s a good gesture for our abang riders. DBKL has introduced the D’Tebing Recharge Rider rest area in KL city for p-hailing riders.
Launched last week by minister in the prime minister’s department in charge of Federal Territories Hannah Yeoh and KL mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun bin Mak Ujud, D’Tebing Recharge Rider is – as its name suggests – located along the banks of KL’s ‘River Of Life’, specifically near Jalan Raja and Dataran Merdeka.
Click to enlarge
The 24-hour facility provides shelter for p-hailing riders, along with surau and toilets. Delivery riders rely on their mobile phones for work, and there’s a phone charging station that operates from 8am to 11pm.
No free food for the riders, but DBKL points out that the D’Tebing Recharge Rider rest area is located close to restaurants that provide Menu Rahmah food items from as low as RM5, so riders can tapau and have meal breaks here. “DBKL is committed to continuously improve this facility to make sure that KL remains as the Bandar Raya Untuk Semua,” the city council said. Good one.
Hongqi has grand ambitions of conquering global markets, and at the International Automotive and Supply Chain Expo in Hong Kong, FAW’s luxury offshoot showcased its Global SUV, first seen at Auto China in Beijing in April. Its debut in the island nation suggests that the car will be offered in right-hand-drive markets, including Malaysia.
First, a bit of background. Hongqi is China’s oldest car brand and was well-known as the maker of the nation’s leaders, including the president. That’s still the case, but today, its most opulent models have been hived off to the Golden Sunflower sub-brand – in fact, those cars have a presence in Malaysia thanks to the first-ever unit of the Guoli (formerly L5) being gifted to Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar.
Its other products, however, are new energy vehicles that are much more pedestrian, and it’s these that will be offered for sale over here. On the eve of Auto China, Hongqi signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Quill Automotive for the importation and distribution of its cars in Malaysia, with a brand launch expected to be held as early as mid-2026. That’s…now, actually.
One of these new energy models is that Global SUV, and eagle-eyed viewers will notice something quite familiar with the car’s styling. The front and rear ends are unique, with Hongqi’s trademark red and chrome bonnet strip being present alongside split headlights with “sparkly” eyebrow-style daytime running lights, downturned centre air intake and full-width taillights sitting above the tailgate-mounted number plate.
But the compact proportions, upright glasshouse and “kinked” rear quarter windows make it quite clear that the Global SUV shares a whole lot with the Leapmotor B10, already on sale in Malaysia. In fact, the Hongqi shares not just the basic body structure but also the bonnet and door mirrors; only the pull-type door handles (the B10 uses flush pop-out units) and a slimmer Hongqi plaque on the front fenders are noticeably different.
That’s not surprising given that late last year, FAW purchased a five per cent stake in Leapmotor, with the first Hongqi-badged model set to be produced starting in the second half of 2026. The Global SUV is slated to be launched in Hong Kong in the fourth quarter of the year and should filter out to other markets in 2027.
Hongqi EHS5
While no details have been revealed just yet, CarNewsChina reports that the Global SUV is rumoured to feature an 800-volt electrical architecture for faster charging, which would be a huge upgrade over the B10. However, it also mentions the option of a range-extender powertrain and a length of 4,750 mm (the B10 is just 4,515 mm long), so this info could be referring to a larger model based on the C10.
As such, you can expect the Global SUV to soldier on with the same powertrain options as the B10 – a single rear motor making 218 PS (160 kW) and 240 Nm, as well as a choice of 56.2 kWh and 67.1 kWh LFP batteries for WLTP-rated range figures of 361 km and 434 km respectively.
The news of a B10-based model would be good news for Hongqi in Malaysia, as the Leapmotor is already set to be CKD locally assembled at the Stellantis plant in Gurun, Kedah within the next few months. If the company can strike a deal with the Netherlands-based conglomerate, that means that the Global SUV could be built here with very minor tooling changes, enabling it to enjoy lower taxes.
Hongqi E-HS9
The Global SUV was shown alongside two other right-hand-drive Hongqi models, including the EHS5 and the E-HS9, the latter already sold in Singapore. The former is a mid-sized SUV that looks surprisingly similar to the Deepal S07, while the latter is a more distinctive luxury model with an upright design more in keeping with the Golden Sunflower cars.
Sold in China as the Tiangong 06, the EHS5’s outputs range from 286 PS and 317 Nm for the single-motor rear-drive model to 560 PS and 623 Nm with dual-motor all-wheel drive. With battery sizes ranging from 62 kWh to 85 kWh for the LFP versions and 98 kWh for the NMC pack, the car offers a range of between 520 km and 780 km on China’s lenient CLTC cycle; expect between 420 km and 640 km on the stricter WLTP standard. Charging reaches up to 454 kW, meaning it can charge from 20 to 80% in as little as 12 minutes.
Underscoring its status as a flagship model, the E-HS9 is offered in Singapore in sole dual-motor AWD form making 492 PS and 606 Nm of torque. With a massive 120 kWh NMC battery, it delivers a claimed WLTP-rated range of 570 km, although with only a 400-volt electrical architecture, the car only supports up to 140 kW of DC fast charging. That means topping up from 10 to 80% takes an agonising 40 minutes.
I know what you’re thinking, because it was on my mind the entire day I was there – what in the blazes is an affordable little Chinese SUV, with not even 180 PS, doing on a track like Sepang, fast and wide enough as it is to make many sports cars feel slow? Are we bringing a knife to a gunfight?
Of course, I knew the event’s objectives – allow journalists to explore the GAC GS3 Emzoom‘s limits in a safe and controlled environment, and position the car as “one of Malaysia’s most engaging and sporty B-segment SUVs”, to quote Warisan Tan Chong Automotif (WTCA). The first objective is a walkover; it’s the second that’s a much bigger question and which we’re here to discuss.
It certainly has the nail hit on the head from a looks perspective. With those slashes, creases, orange bits and dark alloys, the Emzoom is bold, brash and communicates its sporting intent through a megaphone, especially in range-topping RM127k Premium-R form. A lot of the aggression comes from design elements that are so sharp, you worry about getting yourself cut.
Check out those hawk eyes with twin-triangle DRLs (these double triangles are also echoed in the tail lamps), orange front splitter-like side extensions, elaborate mecha-inspired door mirrors, folded paper-like doors, orange roof rails, orange C-pillar triangle, massive sharp reflectors on either side of the tailgate and that almost-comical moustache-shaped rear diffuser with twin circular tailpipes (part of the R-Style Sports Exhaust that’s exclusive to the Premium-R).
The Emzoom does look good – one would think that with so many design elements, the car would wind up looking busy and over-styled, but it somehow doesn’t. The proportions work, and I’ll be the first to admit that despite the car having been in Malaysia for two years already, I still do a double or triple take whenever I see one – there is no bad angle. Then again, extroverted exhibitionists naturally attract attention.
Carpets match the drapes? Somewhat, but in a less dramatic fashion. The sportiest-looking item inside is the steering wheel – chunky, flat bottom, thicker where your thumbs are supposed to rest, perforated sides, floating buttons, a hint of a 12 o’clock marker, twin 6 o’clock spokes. No shift paddles, though.
The dashboard is angled slightly towards the driver, and providing some visual interest are the hexagonal cupholders, contrasting colours on the dash, seats and air vent surrounds, plus textured surfaces on the dash, phone trays, centre console, centre air vents and door cards. Beside the 10.25-inch touch-screen is a clever thin ledge to which you can attach a phone mount – you know, the type that you clip onto your air vents, often making them loose (or if you’re heavy-handed, snap) after some time?
Does it have the go to match the show? Let’s first look at the on-paper numbers. The GAC GS3 Emzoom’s 1.5 litre turbo direct-injected four-cylinder engine sends 177 PS and 270 Nm of torque to the front wheels through a seven-speed wet DCT, propelling it to 100 km/h from rest in eight seconds flat.
How do these figures stand in the B-segment SUV playground? The Proton X50 has a bit more power (181 PS), a little more torque (290 Nm) and accelerates faster (7.6 seconds). The Honda HR-V Turbo makes the same power as the Proton (181 PS), but against the Emzoom, the Japanese car is 30 Nm down (240 Nm) and between seven- and eight-tenths of a second slower to 100 km/h. Everything else in the class trails the GAC where PS, Nm and seconds are concerned.
That day we put all that theory into practice via four activities – a straight-line acceleration, braking and avoidance test, a slalom, a high-speed lane change manoeuvre and a circuit run. Where thrust is concerned, the Emzoom can hold its own, although it’s by no means a barnstormer. The way it picks up speed can best be described as ‘OK’ – however anti-climactic that may be – because no other descriptor is more accurate for its linear, fuss-free and within-expectations acceleration.
Quickening your pulse is the R-Style Sports Exhaust, which is a segment USP. Press a button on the steering wheel and flaps within the exhaust open to give you a louder and more full-bodied aural experience, complete with pops and crackles when you’re in Sport mode. It’s no Golf GTI – the Emzoom’s note is relatively thin and can sound synthesised to some ears, but it’s still enough to make you chuckle… once. Entertains those outside the car more than those inside, that’s for sure.
The track was a little wet earlier in the day, which caused the traction control to intervene in just about every single full-bore start, but throttle response on the move is adequately quick. The same can be said of the steering, while largely wanting in feel, feedback and precision.
The slalom and lane-change parts uncovered body roll that’s par for the course in the segment, although there’s more than enough grip. Hard braking from 100 km/h demonstrated no wriggling, and the vehicle remained able to stably steer to evade obstacles.
In the hands of a professional racing instructor, the GAC GS3 Emzoom managed to lap the 5.543-km Sepang circuit in two minutes and 57 seconds, which compares well to a heavily-modified X50’s 2:47.94 five years ago. Mind you, that Proton had 200 whp, chassis strengthening bars and a big brake upgrade!
Still, we would stop short of deeming the Emzoom a sports-SUV – although it looks the part and then some, its bark is worse than its bite. But by all means, get your John Hancock down on the dotted line if you’re looking for a small SUV with street cred and kerb appeal, and if you do the odd B-road blast every now and again. At RM117k-127k and with up to RM24,500 in rebates, it’s worth at least a look.
GAC GS3 Emzoom at Sepang International Circuit
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2026-update GAC GS3 Emzoom Premium-R in Malaysia
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Pre-2026-update GAC GS3 Emzoom Premium-R in Malaysia
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Pre-2026-update GAC GS3 Emzoom Exclusive in Malaysia
Hyundai is planning the return of a relatively affordable performance model in the next i20 N as the manufacturer aims to bring back entry-level performance cars to its line-up, reported Autocar.
Positioned as the entry point in the N range that previously also included the larger, C-segment i30 N as well as the Veloster N, the range would later on include the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N battery-electric models.
The internal combustion-engined range was discontinued, though now the brand plans to “bring back entry-level cars on the N line-up” to broaden its appeal with younger buyers, Hyundai global research and development chief Manfred Harrer said.
“An i20 N for Europe is a must,” because “the gap is too big” between the brand’s previous, petrol-powered N models and the larger, more expensive BEV models. In Malaysia, the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N are priced at RM443,888 and RM449,888 respectively.
“We need this entry level back for our fans. We are working intensively to do this sooner rather than later,” Harrer said, who added that a debut is not far away, and prototypes of the upcoming performance hatchback are already undergoing tests.
Harrer said that it would makes sense for the upcoming model to “use existing technology” as its basis, suggesting that it would use a revised version of the 1.6 litre, four-cylinder hybrid powertrain in other mainstream Hyundai models.
2021 Hyundai i20 N
The powertrain that goes into the upcoming N model would however be heavily revised for performance, Harrer said. “I want to go to the Nürburgring and do really successful lap times; better than the existing one. But you have to work on the battery management system to get this done,” he said, adding that Hyundai is making sure that the new N model mimics the character of its purely petrol predecessor.
Confirmation of the i20 N’s return comes after N division chief Joon Park stated last year that the N sub-brand would not limit itself to a purely EV line-up, the report wrote.
“The problem that we have is that there is a perception from the media and our fans that Hyundai N is only focusing on the EV world, which is not true. We are not limiting ourselves to EVs,” he said.
Some have questioned the use of diesel trains for the new KTM Shuttle Selatan service that was launched earlier this month in Johor, pointing out that they’re a bit classic, so to speak.
Transport minister Anthony Loke has come out to defend the use of diesel trains, calling it a pragmatic move to ensure commuters have immediate access to transport, rather than face ‘two to three years of waiting’ for new electric multiple unit (EMU) train sets, as used in the Klang Valley.
According to Malay Mail, quoting Sinar Harian, Loke said that the choice was based on a critical timeline. With the Gemas-Johor Bahru Electrified Double Tracking project now complete, the ETS has taken over the primary route, leaving the previous diesel fleet available.
The Seremban MP said that the MoT faced two choices for Shuttle Selatan – wait two to three years for 10 new EMU train sets to be manufactured, or deploy existing assets so Johor residents would not be left stranded. They opted for the latter. “As a result, residents along the Shuttle Selatan route now have a viable alternative, traveling from Kulai to JB Sentral in approximately 30 to 40 minutes,” Loke said.
He added that while the new EMU trains will eventually arrive, there’s no reason to delay service when existing assets can meet current needs. He also revealed a rail milestone for the region – the Kempas Baru-Pasir Gudang route, previously reserved for cargo, is now open to passenger trains for the first time.
Loke said that the train service remains heavily subsidised; the government injects between RM11 million and RM15 million annually to keep it running. Also, the government has already approved RM200 million for the procurement of the 10 new commuter train sets to bolster Johor’s rail public transport system.
Malaysia will take a gradual, safety-first approach to autonomous driving by building the necessary regulatory and infrastructure foundations for the technology before any large-scale deployment comes about. According to works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, the government is not going to simply jump into it.
“We want to take it slow and steady to ensure that the safety aspect is not compromised. We must have regulations in place,” he told the New Straits Times.
“On the regulatory side, focus areas include safety standards, legal liability, cyber security and data governance, while on infrastructure readiness, improvements are ongoing in road markings, signage, road safety standards and digital connectivity. or as some people call it, ‘road furniture’,” he said.
He said the direction of travel system that the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project will utilise is an example of the latter, with dedicated lanes and infrastructure for the autonomous rail transit (ART) trackless trams already being built in the state capital.
It has already been indicated that Malaysia is gearing towards autonomous driving, with deputy minister of investment, trade and industry Sim Tze Tzin saying last month that although the country has not begun looking intently into the topic, the plan is to get Level 3 capability in place by 2030.
As defined by SAE International, autonomous driving is classified on a scale of Level 0, where the driver controls all functions, to Level 5, which represents full driverless capability in all conditions. Level 3 automation allows a vehicle to drive itself in specific conditions, but the driver must remain alert and be ready to take over control of the vehicle when required.
Programmes exploring the tech have come about in the past, but primarily from a pilot on-road evaluation viewpoint. Back in November 2020, the government defined its first autonomous vehicle test routes on public roads in Cyberjaya, with approval coming a month later in December. eMoovit Technology was the first company to receive approval for use of the routes for its autonomous vehicle testbed.
Amanat Lebuhraya Rakyat (ALR) group CEO Muhammad Nizam Alias has stated that the future of land transport in Malaysia lies not just in building more highways, but in rethinking mobility itself, reported New Straits Times.
The firm sees mobility as more important than just building highways to connect point-to-point travel, and instead should be about the “whole travel experience”, he said. “Mobility is about the whole journey. The safety aspect, travel time and experience. It’s not so much of just connecting dots. I see mobility as the way of the future,” he told the news daily.
Nizam stated that public transport services are insufficient particularly in the Klang Valley, and while the initial intention of highways was for them to address the issue of congestion, the highways themselves have become congested.
Reform of mobility should instead consider the optimisation of park-and-ride facilities along major highway corridors, along with stronger coordination between highways and public transport networks, he said.
“Encouraging commuters to shift modes before entering high density corridors can significantly improve traffic distribution and reduce peak hour pressure within city centres. Highways cannot operate in isolation,” Nizam said.
Fairness in terms of fares paid is considered, too, according to Nizam. “Is it fair for people to pay the same price during congestion and also during non-congestion hours? It is not fair. So if we talk about mobility, we need to ensure fairness,” he said.
Amanat Lebuhraya Rakyat is also piloting behavioural interventions to reduce congestion, and the plans include implementing zip-merging at junctions, Nizam said. “We want to explore the behavioural change approach. Congestion is easy to resolve but the challenge is to change the behaviour of the public,” he said.
Mobility reform should also be backed by stronger digital mobility architecture such as the adoption of multi-lane fast flow (MLFF) systems, expanded licence plate recognition capabilities and radio frequency identification (RFID) integration, he continued.
“These technologies form part of the longer-term mobility framework being evaluated to improve traffic efficiency, strengthen enforcement capability and enable better demand management,” he said.
Leapmotor has announced it has delivered a total of 1.5 million vehicles worldwide. This comes just eight months after the Stellantis-backed automaker crossed the one-million-unit mark eight months ago in October 2025.
Prior milestones include hitting 500,000 deliveries in October 2024, a year after Stellantis acquired a 20% stake in Leapmotor and launched Leapmotor International, which is a joint venture 51% owned by Stellantis and 49% owned by Leapmotor.
The Chinese brand delivered its first vehicle in its home market in June 2019, and it took just seven years for it to hit 1.5 million units globally. The formation of Leapmotor International has contributed to this continued growth, with expansions into markets outside China, notably in Europe, enabling access to a wider customer base.
In Malaysia, the C10 led Leapmotor’s entry into our market when it launched here in October 2024. This was followed by the B10 in December 2025, with the C10 Plus joining the line-up in February this year. Based on data from the road transport department (JPJ), 516 Leapmotor vehicles were registered in Malaysia in 2025.
Having initially sold the PV5 in Korea and Europe, Kia has now begun rolling out its funky-looking van to more markets. The company has confirmed the Passenger MPV version will be launched in Australia at the end of the year, according to CarExpert.
The PV5 is set to arrive Down Under in seven-seater form, joining the commercial Cargo variant that was recently launched there. The three-row version is new for the Passenger, which had hitherto been sold only as a five-seater with a big boot, and will complement the best-selling diesel/hybrid Carnival.
Built on the “service” version of the electric Global Modular Platform (e-GMP.S), the PV5 uses standardised batteries, motors, suspension and underbody structures. This allows for up to 16 variants, including not just the aforementioned Passenger and Cargo but also a business-friendly Crew, a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV), high-roof versions and even a chassis cab to be converted to a pick-up, a box van or a motorhome.
At the moment, the seven-seater is only available Long Range trim, equipped with a front motor making 163 PS (120 kW) and 250 Nm of torque. The largest available 71.2 kWh CATL NMC battery comes standard, but the heavier three-row model has an estimated WLTP range of over 390 km, down from 412 km on the five-seater. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80% in under 30 minutes using a 150 kW DC fast charger.
The PV5 looks pretty slick for a commercial-type vehicle, sporting a pleasingly minimalist design with a distinctive wraparound black band that incorporates the bonnet and glasshouse. The low window sill improves outward visibility for the front occupants, while the front end features distinctive S-shaped daytime running lights that are split from the main headlights integrated into the lower grille. The charging port is mounted at the front to prevent obstruction from the (manual or electric) sliding doors.
At the back, the vertical taillights frame the large tailgate, which is a single piece on the Passenger version and split on the Cargo. Lower down, the black plastic body cladding provides added protection, and the wheels are tiny at 16 inches in diameter. The whole car is actually relatively small for its type, measuring 4,695 mm long, 1,895 mm wide and 1,905 mm tall, with a generous 2,995 mm wheelbase.
Inside, the PV5 is practical rather than posh, with the space being mostly made from sturdy hard plastic. The upright centre console opens up floor space and offers plenty of storage, plus a Qi wireless charger. There’s also a floor console and a driver’s armrest above it.
The screens consist of a 7.5-inch instrument display and a 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen that runs on a dedicated Android-based OS, allowing business-specific applications to be installed (no physical air-con controls here, unfortunately).
More storage can be found atop the dashboard, the doors and even below the floor, while the cavernous second-row seats get footrests, numerous USB-C ports and even seat heating. On the seven-seater, the seats are arranged in a 2-2-3 layout, with a kerbside walkway providing uninterrupted access to the third row.
The offering of the PV5 Passenger in a right-hand-drive market close to Asia opens the possibility of it being sold in Malaysia. In fact, the car was recently shown at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) in five-seater form, with Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM) gauging public interest.
If the PV5 does indeed come to Malaysia, it could dovetail with the start of CKD local assembly at the Stellantis Malaysia plant in Gurun, Kedah – the two companies signed a strategic agreement earlier this month – which would allow it to enjoy tax-free prices. Would you like to see it here as an alternative to the Carnival? Let us know in the comments.
The government says that business negotiations among stakeholders regarding the implementation of the multi-lane fast flow (MLFF) tolling system were in their advanced stages, but a final agreement had yet to be reached, the New Straits Times reports.
According to works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, aligning 34 concessionaires to be on the same page was a challenge, unlike in countries where a single body controlled the entire highway network. However, he said the government was not going to interfere in discussions between the highway concessionaires.
“It is a business-to-business model, meaning there is very little government intervention or participation in that. We allow people who are in this business to get together, to work things out, and come out with the best system and for the best pricing,” he told the publication.
He added that the only condition laid out by the government was with regards to pricing, that road users must not be made to pay more for toll. “This is important because the system can be very good, but if we have to charge higher toll, then it’s no good for us because we do not want our road users to be burdened with higher cost,” he explained.
Nanta said that, ultimately, the goal for MLFF was to have a single, seamless system that road users could utilise without confusion, regardless of which highway they used. “What we want is for road users to not be burdened by a fragmented system. They (the concessionaires) must have one complete system, fully integrated, so that road users can use it seamlessly. But it’s not easy for us to tell them to adopt one system. They have to agree among themselves,” he said.
He added that not all concessionaires would necessarily come on board, as some highway alignments might not require the system.
Chery Malaysia posted up a teaser for the Chery Tiggo 9 yesterday, and the graphic says ‘2 days to a class of its own’. This confirms that the brand’s flagship SUV will officially launch on June 23, which is tomorrow.
“Two days away from a drive that will stay with you. The Tiggo 9 is almost within reach, and everything about it was designed to make sure you never forget the moment you first stepped in,” the caption reads.
The Tiggo 9 was previewed exactly a month ago. The number ‘9’ is always reserved for flagships in China (see all those luxury MPVs) and the same applies here – the T9 sits at the top of Chery’s Tiggo SUV range above the Tiggo Cross, Tiggo 7 Pro, Tiggo 8 and Tiggo 8 Pro in the company’s local line-up.
Although Chery Malaysia previously said that the Tiggo 9 will be offered with a CSH plug-in hybrid powertrain, we’re getting only the pure-ICE 2.0T AWD for now. However, the PHEV will surely come at a later date. Chery is already selling CSH variants of the Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8, so it’s just a matter of time before there’s a flagship PHEV in town.
The 2.0T is the Tiggo 8 Pro’s 256 PS/390 Nm 2.0-litre TGDi turbo-four, paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that’s connected to a steering column stalk. While the T8P is front-wheel-drive, the T9 gets AWD with seven modes, which are Eco, Normal, Sport, Sand, Mud, Snow and Off-Road. 0-100 km/h is done in 9.3 seconds.
The T9 rides on 20-inch multi-spoke alloys (so multi, they almost look like wire wheels) – an inch up from the T8P’s rims – and Kumho Ecsta tyres. Same wheel/tyre for the spare, mounted below the car. Ground clearance is 205 mm.
By the way, the seven-seat Tiggo 9 is 4,810 mm long and 1,925 mm wide, which makes it 88 mm longer and 65 mm wider than the Tiggo 8 Pro. Its 2.8m wheelbase is 90 mm longer than the T8P’s. It’s big all right, but a touch smaller in footprint – 10 mm shorter, 5 mm narrower, wheelbase 20 mm shorter – than the massive Jaecoo J8.
Open the powered tailgate and you’ll find 143 litres of space with all three rows of seats up, 448 litres with the third row folded down, and 2,065 with two rows of seats folded flat (50:50 split for the third row, 60:40 for the second row).
Speaking of the Jaecoo J8, the Tiggo 9’s design is less in your face, and more handsome to these eyes – Audi-like, if you like. Also handsome is the Matte Grey finish you see above, which is one of only two paint options for the T9 alongside Carbon Black. It’s as clean as you’d expect a factory matte finish to be, and the T9 is only the second CKD locally assembled car to offer matte after the Omoda C9.
If you’re considering a big SUV from the Chery Group, or any SUV for that matter, it won’t be an easy task with so many options from an array of brands, but if you’re not into the Mercedes-Benz ‘inspired’ cockpit design found in the Jaecoo J8, Omoda C9 and even the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, the T9’s dashboard moves away from the much-copied conjoined screen layout.
It’s largely similar to what we see in the Tiggo 8 PHEV, which by the way is of a newer generation than the Tiggo 8 Pro. Confused? We too have more homework to do when it comes to a Chery launch.
Anyway, the T9’s full black cabin (including headliner) features a 15.6-inch 2.5K central screen powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8155 chip, which sits on the left of the 10.25 inch digital meter panel, supplemented by a head-up display. There’s wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a 50W wireless charger with ventilation.
Luxuries include acoustic glass, synthetic leather, 10-way powered driver’s seat with memory and welcome function (six-way for passenger), front ventilated/heated seats with massage function and even second-row ventilated/heated seats. The front passenger seat has ‘boss switch’ controls on its outer side. Introduced by the Toyota Camry a few generations ago, the latter is a practical little feature that more cars should have.
In the AC department, it’s dual-zone automatic with N95 cabin filter and fan speed control for the second row, which occupants get to enjoy vents on both the centre and B-pillars, plus pull up sunshades. The third row vents are on the roof – there’s no physical control panel for the backbenchers, but fan speed can be changed via the main screen. Also, the centre console box has a cooling function.
All passengers get to enjoy a panoramic sunroof with retractable sunshade and a Sony audio system with 14 speakers, including front headrest speakers. There’s power adjustment for the steering wheel too, which is rare for an ICE car below RM200k. Kit wise, this is a big step up from the Tiggo 8 Pro.
On the safety side, this big SUV is fully loaded with 10 airbags (including rear side, driver’s knee and front centre airbags) and a full ‘Level 2.5’ ADAS suite with 23 features. Parking is assisted by a ‘540-degree’ panoramic camera system, or you can just let the T9 do all the work with automatic park assist. No ASEAN NCAP crash test result yet, but the T9 will most likely score very high.
How much do you need to pay for all that kit? The estimated price is below RM189,000, and there will be an early bird package that will be announced at the launch. For context, the Tiggo 8 Pro retails for RM159,800, while the Jaecoo J8 is priced from RM178,800 for the five-seater 2WD, to RM198,800 for the six-seater AWD. The Omoda C9 goes for RM168,800 for the 2WD and RM188,800 for the AWD. Note that both J8 and C9 come with the same 2.0T engine, but with an 8AT instead of the T9’s 7DCT.
If the warranty package doesn’t deviate from the Chery Malaysia norm, it will be seven years or 150,000 km plus five years of free labour service, but the early bird package is likely to boost this. So, what do you think of the Chery Tiggo 9’s looks and package vis-à-vis its cousins with different badges? We’ll bring you the final price from the launch tomorrow.
Taking his maiden MotoGP Moto3 first place at Automotodrom Brno, Czech Republic, is Hakim Danish, standing proudly on the top step as Negaraku played. It was a hard fought victory for Hakim despite being fastest man in practice, the Terengganu boy breaking the all-time Brno lap record on two occasions.
The AEON Credit-MT Helmets-MSi rider first posted a time of 2:04.938 during Free Practice 1 (FP1) before lowering the benchmark to 2:04.754 during the practice session. However, it was not all good news as Hakim was given a 12-place grid penalty after being found to have ridden too slowly in several sectors of the circuit, disrupting other riders.
This meant Hakim had to start in 14th position, despite qualifying P2 on the starting grid. Not letting this deter him, Hakim carved his way methodically through the field, sitting in the top five by lap[ four. Some lapses of judgement saw him briefly slipping back to seventh place, he clawed his way back to the front, settling into the top three group.
Things heated up in the second half of the race as Hakim battled for position with Brian Uriarte (Red Bull KTM Ajo) and David Almansa (Liqui Moly Dynavolt Intact GP), while chasing race leader Maximo Quiles (CFMOTO Gaviota Aspar Team). The final lap proved to be decisive for Hakim, when Quiles and Uriarte, fighting for position, created a small opening at the front.
Perfectly positioned, Hakim seized the advantage and a perfectly timed move enabled the overtake, placing him out in front. Hakim’s bravery, race craft and decisive judgement enabled the Malaysian rider to cross the finish line in first place, securing a historic victory for Malaysia.
With 25 points in the bag, Hakim now has 73 points in the Moto3 championship standings after this third place finish in Mugello, Italy, last month. Quiles remains at the top of the championship with 186 points, followed by Alvaro Carpe in second on 121 points, while Uriarte occupies third place with 82 points.
According to works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, removing tolls will financially burden the government and divert funds away from things like hospitals, schools and rural infrastructure.
“If you abolish tolls, the government will have to use its funds to maintain the roads, and they cost billions,” he said, as reported by NST. Nanta was responding to a question on whether tolls could ever be entirely abolished.
He also said his preferred model when it comes to tolls is one where concessionaires will no longer need to charge rates high enough to service debt. “It will be this way going forward. Even if the current operators were to hand them over to the government, the government will have to find other operators so that it will not be saddled with the financial responsibility to maintain those tolled roads,” he explained.
On a separate matter, Nanta stated that highways remain a key part of Malaysia’s infrastructure and economic backbone, but fewer will be built in favour of other modes of transport. This is part of plans to establish a smarter, more integrated public transport system aimed at providing Malaysians a genuine alternative to driving that is affordable, convenient and safe.
“We can have those (public transport) systems but if they are not affordable, people will still want to drive their cars or ride their motorcycles,” he said. As per the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) Blueprint 2030, Malaysia is moving away from isolated, siloed systems towards a fully integrated national transport ecosystem.
This has four strategic pillars, with Nanta pointing out that data-driven mobility and transport planning being the main challenges. “You cannot implement something that you hope to be the best at without proper planning, and you cannot plan properly without focusing on data,” he said, adding that synergy across federal agencies, state governments, local authorities, highway concessionaires and enforcement bodies is a greater obstacle than lack of technology.
The Perodua Myvi (updated with a facelift in 2022) is Malaysia’s default smart-money car, and a big part of that appeal is how cheap it is to keep on the road. This is a complete owner’s cost guide: exactly what each scheduled service costs by mileage (straight from Perodua’s official pricing), the service schedule, plus indicative insurance and road tax – so you know the full running-cost picture before and after you buy.
All service figures below are Perodua’s official Peninsular Malaysia prices for the current D-CVT Myvi; East Malaysia is a little higher, and prices can change.
Myvi service cost by mileage
This is the table most owners are looking for – the price of each scheduled service. The current Myvi is serviced every 10,000 km or six months, with the very first service at 1,000 km free of charge. Here’s the full schedule to 100,000 km for both engines:
Perodua Myvi service cost by mileage (official, Peninsular)
Service interval
1.5L
1.3L
What's included
1,000 km (first service)
Free
Free
Inspection only, no parts
10,000 km
RM184.70
RM177.40
Engine oil + oil filter
20,000 km
RM307.98
RM300.68
Above + cabin/air-refiner filter
30,000 km
RM240.86
RM233.56
Engine oil + oil filter
40,000 km
RM438.32
RM431.02
Above + air cleaner filter + brake fluid
50,000 km
RM240.86
RM233.56
Engine oil + oil filter
60,000 km
RM307.98
RM300.68
Above + cabin/air-refiner filter
70,000 km
RM240.86
RM233.56
Engine oil + oil filter
80,000 km
RM438.32
RM431.02
Above + air cleaner filter + brake fluid
90,000 km
RM240.86
RM233.56
Engine oil + oil filter
100,000 km
RM727.96
RM720.66
Above + 4 spark plugs + CVT fluid
Total to 100,000 km
RM3,368.70
RM3,295.70
Roughly five years of servicing
A few things to note. The big-ticket services are the 40,000 km and 80,000 km visits (which add the air cleaner filter and brake fluid) and especially the 100,000 km service, which includes four new spark plugs and a CVT fluid change. Everything else is a straightforward oil-and-filter change.
The Myvi uses fully-synthetic 0W-20 engine oil, which is the single biggest line item on each bill. The 1.3 litre is marginally cheaper to service than the 1.5 (a smaller oil filter), but the difference is only a few ringgit per visit.
The Myvi service schedule – a summary
The Myvi follows a simple, predictable schedule: a free inspection at 1,000 km, then a service every 10,000 km or six months (whichever comes first), measured from the registration date.
The lighter visits are just oil and filters; cabin and air filters come in on a rotating basis; brake fluid is done at 40k and 80k; and spark plugs plus CVT fluid are the 100k-km items. Following this schedule at a Perodua service centre also keeps your warranty intact.
Myvi road tax
Road tax is wonderfully cheap, because both Myvi engines fall under 1.6 litres. In Peninsular Malaysia it’s RM70 a year for the 1.3 litre and RM90 a year for the 1.5 litre – a rounding error in any annual budget.
Myvi insurance
Insurance is the most variable cost, as it’s based on your car’s sum insured (around RM46,000 to RM60,000 when new), your no-claim discount (NCD) and where you live.
As a rough guide, a comprehensive first-year premium typically lands in the region of RM1,000 to RM1,400 for the 1.5, a little less for the 1.3 – and it falls substantially as you build up NCD (up to 55% off at renewal).
You can renew your Myvi insurance (and road tax) with 10% discount with our Paul Tan Insurance service with promo code PAULTAN.
Total cost of ownership
Putting servicing, road tax and insurance together gives you the real annual cost of keeping a Myvi (excluding fuel and any car loan):
Servicing: roughly RM670 a year averaged over five years (more in a 40k/80k/100k year, less otherwise).
Road tax: RM70 (1.3) or RM90 (1.5) a year.
Insurance: indicatively RM1,000-1,400 in year one, dropping with NCD.
That puts all-in ownership (before fuel and financing) at roughly RM1,800-2,200 a year when new, falling as your insurance NCD builds.
Fuel is the other big variable, but the Myvi is famously frugal – Perodua quotes 22.2 km/l for the 1.3 and 21.1 km/l for the 1.5 on the D-CVT.
Myvi tyre replacement cost
Tyres are the other recurring consumable owners ask about, and here the Myvi is cheap to run because it wears small, common sizes.
The 1.3 G rides on 175/65 R14 tyres (14-inch wheels, fitted with Bridgestone Ecopia EP150 from the factory), while the 1.5 X, H and AV use 185/55 R15 (15-inch wheels, with Goodyear Assurance TripleMax as standard).
Going by current Malaysian retailer pricing (prices vary by brand and shop, and aren’t set by Perodua), expect roughly:
1.3 (175/65 R14): about RM140-200 per tyre fitted – think Continental CC6 (~RM150), GT (~RM160), Goodyear (~RM180-195) or Michelin (from ~RM195) – or roughly RM560-800 for a full set of four.
1.5 (185/55 R15): about RM185-310 per tyre – GT (~RM185), Kumho (~RM200), Goodyear (~RM220), up to premium Michelin or Continental at ~RM280-310 – or roughly RM740-1,240 for a set of four.
Factor in a little extra for wheel balancing (around RM10-15 per tyre) and an alignment (around RM30-50) when you fit a full set. Tyres typically last 40,000-60,000 km depending on how you drive, so most owners budget for a fresh set every three to five years.
Frequently asked questions
How much is each Myvi service? From RM177-185 for a basic 10,000 km oil change up to RM728 for the big 100,000 km service – see the full table above. Most visits are between RM185 and RM440.
How often does the Myvi need servicing? Every 10,000 km or six months, after a free first service at 1,000 km.
How much is Myvi road tax? RM70/year for the 1.3 and RM90/year for the 1.5 in Peninsular Malaysia.
1.3 vs 1.5 – is one cheaper to run? Barely. Servicing is within a few ringgit, the 1.3 saves RM20 a year on road tax and sips slightly less fuel; the 1.5 is the better all-rounder for not much more.
How do I reset the service reminder light? It’s normally reset for you at each service. To clear the spanner/maintenance indicator yourself, switch the ignition on (engine off) and hold the meter’s trip-reset button until it resets – or ask your service centre.
The bottom line
The Myvi is about as cheap as a modern car gets to run: around RM3,300-3,400 in total servicing over five years/100,000 km, road tax of RM70-90, and frugal fuel use. Even adding insurance, all-in yearly ownership is modest – which is exactly why the Myvi remains Malaysia’s most sensible everyday buy.
The government has announced that the price of subsidised diesel for Malaysians will be lowered to RM2.10 per litre nationwide from July.
In a statement issued earlier this evening, the finance ministry said that the move will be implemented through a uniform targeting using a MyKad-based mechanism, similar to the approach implemented by the Budi Madani RON 95 (Budi95) scheme.
With this, Malaysians will enjoy the same price and purchasing method nationwide, using MyKad verification, As is the case with RON 95 petrol, non-citizens and ineligible parties will have to purchase diesel at the unsubsidised price. The ministry said that this step is important to reduce leakage and smuggling of the fuel, and to ensure that government subsidies only reach Malaysians.
In line with the move, the retail price of diesel in Sabah and Sarawak, which is presently set at RM2.15 per litre, will be adjusted to the retail price in Peninsular Malaysia, with non-citizens no longer able to enjoy the subsidy. The ministry added that further details of the targeted diesel subsidy reform will be announced by finance minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan tomorrow, June 22.
The Toyota Corolla Cross has quietly become one of the default choices in Malaysia’s busy C-segment SUV class – a no-drama, efficient family crossover that pairs Toyota’s reputation for reliability with a frugal hybrid option. But at around RM134,000 to RM149,000 it sits in one of the most fiercely contested price brackets on the market, up against the Honda HR-V, Proton X50, Mazda CX-30 and a wave of new Chinese rivals.
So is the Corolla Cross the one to buy? This guide lays out the current Malaysian price list, answers the questions buyers actually ask (including the recurring “is it a 5- or 7-seater?”), runs the key specs, and pits it head-to-head against its main rivals.
Toyota Corolla Cross price in Malaysia (2026)
The Corolla Cross is offered in three variants, all five-seaters and all 1.8 litre: one naturally-aspirated petrol and two hybrids, topped by the sporty GR Sport. Here’s the line-up with an indicative monthly instalment.
Toyota Corolla Cross - Malaysia price list (2026)
Variant
Price (OTR)
Powertrain
Est. monthly*
1.8V (petrol)
RM133,800
1.8L NA petrol, 139 PS / 172 Nm
~RM1,366
1.8 HEV
RM140,800
1.8L hybrid, 122 PS combined
~RM1,437
1.8 HEV GR Sport
RM148,800
1.8L hybrid, 122 PS combined
~RM1,519
Prices are on-the-road without insurance. The GR Sport commands an RM8,000 premium over the regular Hybrid for its bodykit, 18-inch turbine alloys, black roof option, red interior accents and GR badging – it’s a cosmetic and trim upgrade, not a mechanical one.
Monthly figures are indicative estimates based on a 10% down payment, 2.5% flat interest and a nine-year hire-purchase tenure; your actual instalment will vary with down payment, rate and tenure.
Is the Corolla Cross a 5-seater or a 7-seater?
This is the single most common question, so to be clear: in Malaysia the Toyota Corolla Cross is a five-seater only. There is no seven-seat version. We’re not kidding about this being a frequently asked question, as it’s a suggested autocomplete on search engines.
If you need three rows from Toyota at a similar size, that’s the Veloz (a seven-seat MPV) or a step up to an Innova Zenix; among rivals here, none of the direct competitors below offer seven seats either.
The Corolla Cross’s appeal is a roomy five-seat cabin and a large, flat 440-litre boot rather than occasional-use third-row seats.
Specs and fuel consumption
Every Corolla Cross shares the same body and footprint – 4,460 mm long, 1,825 mm wide, 1,620 mm tall on a 2,640 mm wheelbase, with 161 mm of ground clearance and a tight 5.2 m turning radius. The real split is the powertrain.
The petrol 1.8V uses a 139 PS/172 Nm 1.8 litre engine with a 7-speed CVT (Sequential Shiftmatic), while the hybrids pair a 98 PS/142 Nm Atkinson-cycle 1.8 with a 72 PS (53 kW)/163 Nm electric motor and an E-CVT for a combined 122 PS, fed by a 201.6V nickel-metal hydride battery. Top speed for the hybrid is 170 km/h.
The GR Sport is mechanically the same as the 1.8 HEV, adding sport-tuned suspension, performance bracing, a Sport ECU steering tune, GR-design 18-inch wheels and the cosmetic GR package – it’s a sportier flavour, not a faster one.
Toyota Corolla Cross - detailed specifications
Specification
1.8V (petrol)
1.8 HEV / GR Sport
Engine
1.8L 4-cyl DOHC 16V VVT-i
1.8L 4-cyl DOHC 16V VVT-i (Atkinson)
Bore x stroke
80.5 x 88.3 mm
80.5 x 88.3 mm
Engine output
139 PS / 172 Nm
98 PS / 142 Nm
Electric motor
None
72 PS (53 kW) / 163 Nm
Combined output
139 PS
122 PS
Transmission
7-speed CVT (Sequential Shiftmatic)
E-CVT
Drive modes
None
Power / Eco / Normal / EV
Hybrid battery
None
NiMH, 201.6 V, 6.5 Ah
Top speed
Not stated
170 km/h
Length x width x height
4,460 x 1,825 x 1,620 mm
4,460 x 1,825 x 1,620 mm
Wheelbase
2,640 mm
2,640 mm
Ground clearance
161 mm
161 mm
Kerb weight
1,405 kg
1,430 kg
Fuel tank
47 litres
36 litres
Boot space
440 litres
440 litres
Tyres & rims
225/50 R18 alloy
225/50 R18 alloy (GR Sport design)
Suspension (F/R)
MacPherson strut / torsion beam
MacPherson strut / torsion beam (sport-tuned on GR Sport)
On fuel, the hybrid is the headline: Toyota’s claimed figure is 23.3 km per litre (about 4.3 L/100km), genuinely frugal for the class and the single biggest reason most buyers step up to the HEV.
The petrol 1.8V is the thirstier choice – it makes its 139 PS by revving to 6,400 rpm and lacks any electric assistance, so expect real-world economy in the mid-teens km/l. Interestingly, the petrol partly offsets this with a larger 47-litre fuel tank (versus the hybrid’s 36 litres), so touring range between fills is closer than the consumption gap suggests – but around town, where the hybrid runs on electric power most often, the HEV’s advantage is decisive.
Every variant gets Toyota Safety Sense as standard – autonomous emergency braking, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane centring, blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert and more – plus seven airbags.
Ownership is backed by Toyota’s five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, with an additional eight-year battery warranty on the hybrids.
How the Corolla Cross compares to its rivals
Here’s the Corolla Cross against its five closest cross-shops, before we go through each in turn.
Corolla Cross vs similarly priced rivals
Specification
Corolla Cross
Honda HR-V
Mazda CX-30
Proton X70
Jaecoo J7
Price (OTR)
RM133,800-148,800
RM115,900-143,900
RM128,400-154,400
RM106,800-119,800
RM138,800-158,800
Powertrains
1.8 NA or 1.8 hybrid
1.5 NA / 1.5 turbo / e:HEV
2.0 / 2.5 NA
1.5 turbo
1.6 turbo or plug-in hybrid
Max power
139 PS (NA), 122 PS (HEV)
up to 179 PS
up to 162 PS
178 PS
up to 279 PS (PHEV)
Hybrid option
Yes (full hybrid)
Yes (e:HEV)
No
No
Yes (plug-in)
Seats
5
5
5
5
5
Prices OTR without insurance; current 2026 figures and max power from carbase.my. All are five-seaters. Power shown is the highest in each range.
Corolla Cross vs Honda HR-V
This is the headline rivalry. The Honda HR-V matches the Corolla Cross almost dead-on on price (RM115,900-143,900) and, like Toyota, offers an e:HEV hybrid at the top.
Where Honda pulls ahead is choice and performance: the HR-V also offers a 179 PS 1.5 turbo that the Corolla Cross has no answer to, and Honda’s packaging (including the clever “Ultra Seats”) is a cabin highlight. The Corolla Cross counters with stronger hybrid economy, Toyota’s resale and reliability reputation, and the bigger boot.
Pick the HR-V if you want turbo performance or Honda’s interior versatility; pick the Corolla Cross if hybrid efficiency and Toyota ownership peace-of-mind top your list.
Corolla Cross vs Jaecoo J7
The Jaecoo J7 (RM138,800-158,800) is the most ambitious of the new Chinese challengers – a larger, more premium-feeling SUV with Land Rover-inspired styling, a big touchscreen-led cabin and a generous kit list.
It also offers powertrains the Corolla Cross simply can’t match: a 197 PS 1.6 turbo (in 2WD or AWD form) or a 279 PS plug-in hybrid with around 88 km of EV-only range (WLTP) for daily commutes on electricity alone. The Corolla Cross counters with Toyota’s unmatched reliability and resale record, a fuss-free full hybrid that never needs plugging in, and a proven local service and parts network.
Pick the Jaecoo J7 if you want maximum space, power and technology for the money – especially the plug-in hybrid if you can charge at home; pick the Corolla Cross for Toyota peace-of-mind, effortless hybrid operation and potentially stronger resale value.
Corolla Cross vs Proton X50
The Proton X50 is the value challenger, starting from just RM89,800 and topping out at RM113,300 – comfortably under the Corolla Cross – while its 1.5 turbo musters up to 178 PS. The trade-offs: it’s a size smaller, there’s no hybrid option, and resale and brand perception sit below Toyota’s.
Pick the X50 if budget and turbocharged performance-per-ringgit matter most; pick the Corolla Cross for the hybrid’s running-cost savings and long-term resale.
Corolla Cross vs Proton X70
In size and segment, the Proton X70 (RM106,800-119,800) is arguably the closest natural rival to the Corolla Cross – a proper C-segment SUV that happens to undercut it by RM15,000 to RM30,000.
Its 1.5 litre turbo musters 178 PS/290 Nm, comfortably more grunt than the Corolla Cross’s petrol, and it serves up a larger 515-litre boot. The trade-offs: there’s no hybrid option, real-world economy trails the Toyota’s HEV, and Proton’s resale sits below Toyota’s.
Pick the X70 if you want a similarly-sized SUV with more turbo torque and a bigger boot for noticeably less money; pick the Corolla Cross for the hybrid’s fuel savings and Toyota’s resale and reliability.
Corolla Cross vs Toyota Yaris Cross
Toyota’s own Yaris Cross (RM99,900-109,900) is a deliberately smaller and cheaper B-segment SUV, also offered with a hybrid. Think of it as the Corolla Cross’s little brother: less rear space and boot, less power (105-111 PS), but lighter on the wallet to buy and run.
Pick the Yaris Cross if you want a smaller, more affordable Toyota hybrid for city use; pick the Corolla Cross if you need the extra space and a more substantial feel for family duty.
Corolla Cross vs Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a size up and a price tier above (RM178,200-195,900), so it’s a stretch cross-shop rather than a direct rival. It’s noticeably bigger inside, with a 1.5 turbo and a 2.0 e:HEV hybrid, but you’re paying RM30,000-plus more.
Pick the CR-V if you genuinely need the extra space and have the budget; the Corolla Cross is the smarter buy if you don’t.
Corolla Cross vs Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 (RM128,400-154,400) is the premium-feel alternative – lovely materials, sharp styling and the best drive in the class. But it’s naturally-aspirated only (up to 162 PS), with no hybrid, a smaller boot and thirstier real-world economy.
Pick the CX-30 if cabin quality and driving enjoyment outrank efficiency; pick the Corolla Cross for the hybrid’s frugality and Toyota’s practicality.
Other rivals worth a look
Beyond the big five, the Corolla Cross also draws cross-shoppers from:
– Perodua Traz (RM76,100-81,100) – the value pick and, in fact, a twin of the Yaris Cross; far cheaper, though a class smaller and petrol-only.
– Mitsubishi Xforce (RM109,980-119,980) – a stylish, well-priced B-SUV, but naturally-aspirated only.
– Chery Tiggo Cross (RM88,800-99,800) – undercuts everyone and offers a hybrid, the value-hybrid wildcard.
Ownership and running costs
Toyota Malaysia publishes fixed-price service packages, which are available for viewing in the images above. The compulsory first service at 1,000 km is RM198 with free labour, after which servicing steps through the schedule at regular intervals, alternating a light “Basic” service with a fuller “Advance” one, plus a bigger “Advance Plus” major service every 40,000 km.
Here’s how the standard (synthetic) packages compare:
Toyota Corolla Cross - service package prices (Jan 2026)
Service package
Petrol 1.8V
1.8 HEV
First service (1,000 km, free labour)
RM198
RM198
Basic service
RM218
RM218
Advance service
RM358
RM358
Advance Plus (major, every 40,000 km)
RM618
RM578
Big-ticket periodic items are few and far between. On the petrol, the CVT fluid and fuel filter are due at 80,000 km and iridium spark plugs at 100,000 km (around RM270), with engine coolant not needed until 160,000 km.
The hybrid is no costlier to keep – its major service is actually RM40 cheaper, its transaxle fluid is due at 80,000 km, spark plugs at 100,000 km (around RM390), engine coolant at 160,000 km and the inverter coolant only at 240,000 km.
Crucially, there is no scheduled replacement for the hybrid battery, which is covered by the eight-year warranty. In practice, that means routine upkeep of roughly RM900-1,200 a year for a typical 15,000-20,000 km annual mileage – genuinely low running costs, and near-identical whether you choose petrol or hybrid.
Backing all this is Toyota’s five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty, plus the additional eight-year (also unlimited-mileage) hybrid battery warranty – and you can prepay a service package for fixed costs.
A big part of the Corolla Cross’s appeal is cheap, fuss-free ownership:
Fuel: the hybrid’s 23.3 km/l claim means real savings at the pump versus turbocharged rivals – the single biggest running-cost advantage here.
Road tax: because the Corolla Cross hybrid is a conventional (non-plug-in) hybrid, road tax is calculated on its 1.8-litre (1,798cc) engine, just like any petrol car – it is not taxed under the EV road-tax scheme. That works out to RM359.40 a year, the same across all three variants.
Insurance: the first-year premium, before any no-claim discount (NCD), is around RM3,791.90 for the 1.8V based on its sum insured; the higher-value hybrids cost a little more, and your accumulated NCD will bring renewals down significantly from there.
Servicing & warranty: Toyota’s reputation for low maintenance costs applies, backed by the five-year/unlimited-mileage warranty and eight-year battery warranty.
Verdict – is the Corolla Cross the one?
The Toyota Corolla Cross wins on the things that matter most to a mainstream family buyer: a genuinely frugal hybrid, a roomy five-seat cabin and big boot, a full safety suite as standard, and Toyota’s unmatched reputation for reliability and resale.
It’s not the sportiest (the HR-V turbo and X50 are quicker), the most premium-feeling (that’s the CX-30), nor the cheapest (the X50, Traz and Tiggo Cross all undercut it) – but it’s the most rounded, and for most shoppers in this bracket that balance is exactly the point.
If your priority is efficiency, peace of mind and resale, the 1.8 Hybrid is the sweet spot of the range – and the one to put at the top of your shortlist.
Video review
What about a used Corolla Cross?
The Corolla Cross only arrived in Malaysia in 2021, so even the oldest used examples are still relatively young, and there’s a healthy supply to choose from.
Going by current Carro Certified listings, used prices run from roughly RM69,000 for an early, higher-mileage 2022 car to around RM128,000 for a near-new 2024-2025 example, with the bulk sitting between RM92,000 and RM113,000. As a rough year-by-year guide, 2021 cars hover around RM88,000, 2022s around RM103,000, 2023s around RM109,000 and 2024s around RM116,000.
The most useful quirk for used buyers is that the hybrid’s new-car premium all but disappears on the second-hand market: used petrol and hybrid Corolla Crosses trade at almost identical money (both around RM104,000 median), so a pre-owned HEV is arguably the smartest pick in the range – you get the fuel savings without paying extra for them.
That said, a near-new 2024-2025 example at RM116,000-125,000 sits close enough to the RM133,800 list price of a brand-new 1.8V that buyers may simply want stretch to new for the full warranty. This simply speaks of how well Toyotas retain their resale value.
Whichever you choose, buy on service history and condition first, and on a hybrid remember the high-voltage battery is covered by Toyota’s eight-year warranty from new.
