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• Hyundai Stargazer Malaysia launch confirmed, Sept 22 – Style, Prime and 6-seater X; 1.5L NA CVT; fr RM99k est

  In Cars, Hyundai, Local News / by Danny Tan / 18 September 2026 3:30 pm

  

  The Hyundai Stargazer’s Malaysia launch date is now confirmed, and the MPV will debut on September 22, which is next Tuesday. “The new Stargazer is here! The WEhicle made for moments together is coming your way on 22nd of September. Stay tuned,” Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) posted on social media, showing rows of the three-row car waiting at the port.

  The Stargazer was first previewed at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2026 in June, before we got up close to the Stargazer X – a six-seater with middle row captain seats – last month. The affordable MPV rival to the Mitsubishi Xpander, Toyota Veloz (and by extension, the Perodua Alza) is a CBU import from Indonesia, where ‘Low MPVs’ as such are core models.

  The Hyundai is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine producing 115 PS at 6,300 rpm and 143 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm. The Smartstream G four-cylinder unit is mated to a chain-driven CVT that Hyundai calls Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), with drive sent to the front wheels. This is the class norm.

  

  Size wise, the Stargazer is 4,575 mm long and 1,780 mm wide, with a 2,780 mm wheelbase. That’s 20 mm shorter than the Xpander but a full 100 mm longer than the Veloz. With an almost one-box shape, the Hyundai is closer in design to the Xpander than the two-box Veloz/Alza with a prominent bonnet – which style do you prefer?

  By the way, we’re getting the Stargazer in its latest facelift form, which surfaced in Indonesia last year as the Stargazer Cartenz. We’ve detailed the all the visual changes here, with side-by-side pics.

  HMY opened order books for the Stargazer at KLIMS, with estimated pricing of RM99,XXX for the Style, RM109,XXX for the Prime and RM121,XXX for the range-topping X. It was announced then that the first 800 customers will receive a RM4,600 value package that includes an eight-year/160,000 km warranty, four years of free service and a booking fee of only RM88. Existing Hyundai customers get an additional RM1,000 rebate.

  

  The base Style rides on 16-inch wheels, an inch smaller than the others, with a different design and a black finish on the X you see here, which also gains beefier bumpers, silver decorative skid plates, wheel arch extensions and black badging for a tougher, more SUV appearance. The top model gets an exclusive Gravity Gold Matte paint on top of the regular Titan Gray Metallic, Creamy White Pearl and Midnight Black Pearl options.

  Inside, there’s a widescreen panel with two screens, which on the base model consists of a calculator-style seven-segment LCD instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch multi-info display, as well as an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. The other variants get twin 10.25-inch displays.

  The centre console houses either manual or auto air-con controls with physical switchgear, along with a conventional T-shaped gear selector down below. The latter is missing from the X, which instead gets a twist shifter from the latest Tucson and Santa Fe (on top of steering paddles), freeing up space for extra storage on the unique stitched centre console. Upholstery is fabric on the Style, part faux leather on the Prime and full faux leather for the X.

  

  

  

  The Stargazer comes with seven seats as standard, with the X only offered as a six-seater with second-row captain’s chairs. All but the base model get fold-out tables on the front passenger seat back. There are roof-mounted air vents with dedicated blower controls, of course. With all seats up, the boot can hold just 182 litres, but it’s expandable to 1,892 litres with the second and third rows folded.

  Safety wise, the Stargazer comes with just two airbags as standard – you’ll have to step up to the Prime and X to get six airbags and the full list of SmartSense driver assists, which include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, rear cross traffic alert with auto brake, front departure alert, driver attention monitor, door opening warning and auto high beam.

  Again, the estimated pricing is RM99,XXX for the Style, RM109,XXX for the Prime and RM121,XXX for the X, with a RM4,600 value package for early birds. Lower final pricing to be announced at the launch? We’ll see. For now, what do you think of the Hyundai Stargazer’s looks and package as a family machine?

  GALLERY: Hyundai Stargazer X in Malaysia

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  GALLERY: Hyundai Stargazer Prime in Malaysia

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• Jetour T2 i-DM amasses 2,137 bookings ahead of Malaysian launch tomorrow – 1.5T PHEV, RM169k est

  In Cars, Jetour, Local News / by Jonathan James Tan / 18 September 2026 3:13 pm

  

  As of yesterday, the Jetour T2 i-DM has collected 2,137 bookings since the order books opened on June 11 at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2026. That’s an average of over 21 orders a day, and the car isn’t even due to be launched until tomorrow!

  RM168,888 is the estimated price (let’s see how much lower the final price will be), and what you get is a 1.5 litre turbo direct-injected engine, two electric motors and a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT). The combined output is 360 PS and 610 Nm of torque, versus its ICE sister‘s 245 PS/375 Nm.

  

  

  

  EV-only and combined ranges are claimed to be over 100 km and 1,200 km respectively (likely NEDC figures), and we can expect Level 2 ADAS, six airbags, a panoramic view monitoring system and “a comprehensive ownership and warranty package”, according to Jetour Malaysia.

  For context, the RM157k T2 ICE comes with a seven-year/150,000-km vehicle warranty, a 10-year/one-million-km powertrain warranty and five times’ free service (parts and labour). Excited? Not long now! You can read our buyer’s guide in the meantime.

  Jetour T2 i-DM PHEV at KLIMS 2026

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  Jetour T2 i-DM PHEV official images

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• Royal Enfield Flying Flea C6 e-bike debuts in Europe

  In Bikes, Electric motorcycles, Royal Enfield / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 18 September 2026 1:30 pm

  

  Royal Enfield’s Flying Flea C6 electric motorcycle has officially gone global, with bookings now open in Europe and the UK ahead of deliveries starting in October. The retro-styled C6 is priced from 5,990 Euros (RM28,126) in Europe and 5,300 Pounds Sterling (RM28,968) in the UK, with the initial rollout covering Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Berlin and London.

  The C6 is the first production model from Flying Flea, Royal Enfield’s dedicated electric motorcycle brand, first unveiled in 2024. Power comes from a 3.91 kWh battery and electric motor producing 15.4 kW (20.6 hp) and up to 60 Nm.

  Top speed is 115 km/h, while European-specification models have a WMTC range of 104 km. Weighing 124 kg, the C6 takes around 65 minutes to charge from 20% to 80%.

  

  Equipment fit out includes a forged-aluminium frame, magnesium battery casing, girder-style front suspension, belt drive, lean-angle-sensitive ABS and traction control, as well as connected electronics. The C6 is positioned as a lightweight urban electric motorcycle, with its pricing reflecting Royal Enfield’s positioning of the Flying Flea brand above lower-cost electric motorcycles.

  There is currently no confirmed launch date or pricing for other regions, although the Flying Flea website says US pricing will be announced later. For now, the European and UK launch marks the first major export expansion for Royal Enfield’s new electric motorcycle brand.

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• Pre-owned Lotus Eletre and Emeya EVs from RM399k – great deals boosted with a pair of F1 grandstand tickets!

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 18 September 2026 1:29 pm

  

  The Lotus Emeya Hyper-GT and Eletre Hyper-SUV for below RM400k? That is insane levels of performance and car for the money, and they’re now available from RM399k pre-owned with very low miles on the clock. You’re a car guy, you do the math.

  What’s even better is that this good deal comes with a truly limited-time carrot in the form of a pair of Formula 1 main grandstand tickets. Now, if you’ve somehow missed it, F1 is coming back to Sepang, but only as a one-off ‘Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia’ in October due to unforeseen events. This ‘strange but true’ race will be iconic, and tickets are understandably hard to come by, but now you know…

  Check out the Eletre and Emeya at two locations this month – The Waterfront, Desa Park City, September 16-20; and Concourse, Level 2, Pavilion Damansara Heights, September 22-27. Get to know the cars better, check out the details and take them for a spin to feel the performance on tap.

  Place a booking in September and score a pair of grandstand tickets for the wildcard F1 race everyone will be talking about for years to come. Limited tickets are available on a first come first served basis.

  Speaking of performance, these ‘600’ models feature a dual-motor, all-wheel drive powertrain delivering 612 PS and 710 Nm of torque. The 0-100 km/h sprint times are 4.15 seconds for the Emeya 600 and 4.5 seconds for the Eletre 600 – impressive figures for luxurious EVs capable of providing up to 600 km of WLTP range.

  Active air suspension is standard, and MY27 models get larger wheels (21-inch for Emeya, 22-inch for Eletre), Pirelli P Zero tyres made specifically for Lotus vehicles, six-piston brake calipers and an active rear spoiler for extra downforce. The interior is boosted by Nappa leather and a 15-speaker KEF premium audio system, among other goodies.

  By the way, Lotus might no longer be on the grid today, but Team Lotus is still one of the most successful teams in F1 history, winning no less than seven constructors’ titles and powering six drivers’ champions including Jim Clark, Graham Hill, Emerson Fittipaldi and Mario Andretti.

  Die hard and/or older F1 fans would have heard of them before, but even if your memory doesn’t stretch so far back, you’d know Aryton Senna just by walking pass a watch shop in the mall. The departed legend scored his first F1 win in 1985 with Team Lotus, and in iconic style too – the black-gold John Player Special livery has to be one of the coolest ever. Senna scored more wins in the the yellow ‘Camel’ livery Lotus 98T the following year.

  You can have that same logo on your wheel – check out the roadshow dates above. Both Emeya and Eletre will be available for test drives throughout the weekend at the two locations. Register for a test drive today and claim an exclusive gift from Lotus, while stocks last.

   

• 2026 Hyundai Staria facelift in Thailand – CBU Korea petrol hybrid replaces CKD Malaysia diesel, fr RM257k

  In Cars, Hyundai, International News / by Jonathan Lee / 18 September 2026 1:27 pm

  

  Image from Autolifethailand

  Revealed late last year, the facelifted Hyundai Staria has made its way to Thailand, offering a new hybrid powertrain. This is significant because this new Korean-built model replaces the old diesel van that was assembled in Malaysia in Kulim, Kedah.

  That switch has predictably brought a sizeable increase in price, because even the base Modern variant retails at 2,099,000 baht (RM257,400), slightly higher than the outgoing 1,999,000 baht (RM245,200) top-spec Premium that remains on sale for now.

  The like-for-like replacement Premium, meanwhile, now costs a heady 2,399,000 baht (RM294,200). Both are 11-seater models, with Thailand being the first country to get the facelift in this configuration, per Autolifethailand.

  

  Image from Autolifethailand

  As previously reported, Hyundai ditched the 2.2 litre turbodiesel with this latest refresh, replacing it with the Tucson and Santa Fe Hybrid’s 1.6 litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine making 180 PS at 5,500 rpm and 265 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 4,500 rpm. This is mated to a 73 PS/304 Nm electric motor and a six-speed auto for a combined 245 PS and 367 Nm – 68 PS up but still 64 Nm down on the old oil burner.

  Under the skin, the Staria’s front subframe gets a more rigid connection and more responsive bushings, the latter providing better body control. The Premium’s rear suspension switches to hydro bushings to improve shock absorption and reduce vibration. There’s thicker sound insulation material in the bulkhead, and more sound-absorbing materials have been added to the vehicle’s rear and lower sections.

  Beyond that, the visual changes for this futuristic space shuttle are fairly minor. The distinctive upper daytime running light bar is now a single piece that is standard across the range, stamped with the Staria script on the side. The Premium also gets slimmer vertical projector LED headlights that makes space for a big, toothy new grille with chrome “dashes”.

  

  

  Image from Autolifethailand

  The strip underneath it is also now in chrome and has been subtly reprofiled with a slit on either side, and this is repeated at the rear. The Modern retains the same bumpers and reflector LED headlights as the previous regular Staria. Wheel options include a carryover 17-inch design for the Modern and a new 18-inch turbine-style one for the Premium.

  Much larger revisions can be found on the inside. There’s a whole new dashboard that features a more angular design and a more conventional waterfall-style centre console that places the air-con vents directly below the infotainment touchscreen.

  Speaking of which, both the instrument and infotainment displays are larger, now measuring 12.3 inches across (up from 10.25 and eight inches respectively). There’s also a new steering wheel with four dots – Morse code for the letter H – taken straight off the Santa Fe.

  

  Image from Autolifethailand

  Elsewhere, the Premium gains a steering column-mounted gear selector, ditching the centre console buttons. Last but not least, the Staria has gained support for Hyundai’s Bluelink smartphone-based remote vehicle functionality, with the addition of Internet connectivity also enabling over-the-air updates.

  Standard kit is vast and includes Panoramic Pixel LED taillights, keyless entry with remote start, push-button start, a heat-insulating windscreen and front side windows, paddle shifters, power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, front and rear auto air con, rear sunshades, six speakers, a 360-degree camera system and a hands-free powered tailgate.

  The Premium adds a acoustic front glass, suede trim, a stitched console panel, dual sunroofs, heated and ventilated front seats, aluminium pedals, side sill scuff plates, ambient lighting, a Qi wireless charger and a 12-speaker Bose sound system.

  

  

  

  Images from Autolifethailand

  Safety kit is identical on both models and include six airbags, stability control and a full complement of SmartSense driver assists.

  The latter include autonomous emergency braking with intersection collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring with collision avoidance, rear cross traffic alert with auto brake, front departure alert, a driver attention monitor, a door opening warning, a rear seat reminder and auto high beam.

  The fact that Thailand has had to source its facelifted Staria means that it likely won’t be offered in Malaysia so soon; hopefully we will receive it next year. That should coincide with a switch to a hybrid powertrain, although that’s less crucial for our market now that diesel fuel is back to being subsidised. No word on the new electric model as yet.

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• Pekema urges gov’t to assist Bumiputera automotive entrepeneurs make the transition from ICE to EVs

  In Local News / by Anthony Lim / 18 September 2026 12:54 pm

  

  For the upcoming Budget 2027, parallel importer association Persatuan Pengimport dan Peniaga Kenderaan Melayu Malaysia (Pekema) has urged the government to focus on assisting Bumiputera automotive entrepreneurs in transitioning from businesses dealing in imported, used internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem.

  According to Pekema president Datuk Mohamed Nazari Noordin, the shifting landscape of the national automotive industry requires appropriate policy support for Bumiputera entrepreneurs to enable them to adapt their business models and remain competitive, as Utusan Malaysia reports.

  He said Pekema has submitted three key requests to the government for Budget 2027, which is to carry out reforms to the tax and import duty structure, offer specific incentives for the transition to EVs, and priced easier access to financing and credit guarantees for Bumiputera small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

  “We hope Budget 2027 focuses on refining the tax and import duty structures to ensure fairness and competitiveness for industry players. These structural improvements would have the potential to transform Malaysia into a more competitive regional automotive hub, while enabling the government to balance national revenue needs with the business viability of Bumiputera importers,” he told the publication.

  

  He stated that the issue is particularly crucial for dealers of reconditioned vehicles, who are facing a shifting market landscape driven by government efforts to strengthen local vehicle assembly. He said that Pekema is ready to engage with the government to discuss the industry’s issues and challenges, including finding approaches that ensure the automotive sector’s transformation benefits all stakeholders.

  He added that the government needs to provide specific incentives to assist Bumiputera entrepreneurs in transitioning from an ICE business model to an electric one. “Pekema supports the national automotive policy (NAP), which focuses on developing a sustainable automotive ecosystem, including the transition to EVs and new technologies,” he said.

  “However, Bumiputera entrepreneurs require appropriate support so they are not left behind amidst shifts in technology and business models,” he added.

  Necessary support would include assistance for CKD local assembly of EVs and component manufacturing, the development of charging infrastructure as well as workforce training and certification. He said the government should provide grants or tax incentives for workforce training in EV technology, in addition to helping entrepreneurs develop service and 3S centres equipped to handle new-generation vehicles.

  

  

  “Entrepreneurs need not only change the products they sell but also invest in equipment, workforce skills, and service facilities to meet the demands of EV technology. Therefore, flexible financing facilities are crucial to help entrepreneurs make this transition,” he said.

  To this end, Pekema urged the government to provide special financing schemes with low or flexible interest rates for Bumiputera automotive SMEs, specifically for equipment purchases, training, and business expansion.

  He added that credit guarantees through government agencies, such as the Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan (SJPP), are also vital to facilitate entrepreneurs in securing financing from financial institutions.

  With regards to the ending of tax incentives for fully-imported CBU EVs, Pekema acknowledged that the move is part of the government’s effort to encourage local assembly. Mohamed Nazari said that while the measure could pose short-term challenges, particularly concerning consumer demand and the ability of entrepreneurs to adapt to market changes, the transition would strengthen the local industry and attract more investment into the EV ecosystem in the long run.

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• BAIC still coming to Malaysia – Arcfox T1 EV to launch year-end, BAIC BJ30 Hybrid in 1Q27, both CKD from start

  In Arcfox, BAIC, Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News / by Jonathan James Tan / 18 September 2026 12:08 pm

  

  BAIC’s Malaysian entry has got to be one of the longest gestation periods ever in the nation’s automotive history. Can you believe the Beijing-based state-owned carmaker took a chance here as early as 2015? At that time it wanted to make Malaysia an ASEAN EV hub, and in late-2016, showed the EV200 EV sedan and D20 petrol hatch – both looking a lot like the original Mercedes-Benz B-Class.

  Nothing then really happened until mid-2023, when BAIC and EP Manufacturing (EPMB) signed an MoU for X55 and BJ40 Plus local assembly (CKD). In May 2024, both SUVs were previewed in right-hand drive form (we even got them both for a few days) and were supposed to be launched later that year, but 2024 became 2025 and 2025 became 2026.

  

  

  

  Three months ago, BAIC sub-brand Arcfox listed Malaysia on its website and activated its Malaysian Facebook, Instagram and Threads pages, and it transpired that GoAuto Group’s Intro Synergy (yup, of Neta Malaysia fame) would be the distributor.

  The company has now confirmed to paultan.org BM that its Malaysian plans are alive and well – final brand launch preparations are being done, backed by a more structured and clear plan. The Arcfox T1 and BAIC BJ30 will launch first as CKD models from the start, as soon as year-end and in the first quarter of next year respectively.

  

  Recently launched in Indonesia as a BAIC for Rp 393 million (RM90k), the T1 is 4,337 mm long, 1,860 mm wide, 1,572 mm tall and has a 2,770 mm wheelbase. In Indonesia, the smart #1-sized EV has a 95 PS/176 Nm front motor, a 42.3-kWh LFP battery, a 310-km WLTP range, a 5.2-second 0-100 km/h time and a circa-150 km/h top speed. Max charging rates are not divulged, but 30-80% DC charging takes around 25 minutes and 0-100% AC charging takes eight hours.

  Meanwhile, the BJ30 has already been on sale for over a year in Indonesia, where’s it’s available only as a hybrid for Rp 529-589 million (RM122k-135k). There exists a pure petrol version, but we understand that Malaysia is expected to get the hybrid first.

  

  

  

  Length, width, height, wheelbase and ground clearance are respectively 4,730, 1,910, 1,790, 2,820 and 215 mm. In Indonesia, the BJ30 Hybrid’s 158 PS/235 Nm 1.5 litre turbo engine is married to either one 177 PS/315 Nm motor on the FWD or that plus a 75 PS/135 Nm rear motor on the AWD, through a two-speed dedicated hybrid transmission. Combined outputs are 334 PS/550 Nm and 409 PS/685 Nm respectively.

  We understand that for Malaysia, the Arcfox badge is set to adorn EV SUVs and crossovers, while the BAIC badge will be reserved for boxy off-roaders. What are your thoughts? Will the BAIC who cried wolf finally pull through?

  Indonesian-market Arcfox T1, sold there as a BAIC

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  Indonesian-market BAIC BJ30 Hybrid

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• KL city centre road closures tomorrow, Sept 19 for the Malaysia Sarong Music Run (MSMR) 2026 event

  In Local News / by Danny Tan / 18 September 2026 12:02 pm

  

  

  Click to enlarge

  Those planning to head to KL city centre tomorrow, take note. There will be road closures around the KLCC and Bukit Bintang areas this Saturday, September 19, to make way for the Malaysia Sarong Music Run (MSMR) 2026 running event.

  Affected roads include Jalan P Ramlee, Jalan Pinang, Jalan Kia Peng, Jalan Stonor, Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan Bukit Bintang, Jalan Sultan Ismail and Jalan Ampang. Some of these roads will be fully closed to traffic while some will be shared between runners and traffic – click on the image above for details.

  The run starts tomorrow evening, so the road closures will start from around 2pm. However, some areas will be closed from today for the event set up near KLCC. Any changes to the closures or timing is at the discretion of the authorities, the event organiser says.

  Race pack collection is at Hotel Royale Chulan on Jalan Conlay, and today is the last day for the REPC. Tomorrow, runners can park at KLCC, the open car park beside NZ Curry House, Avenue K and the open car park behind the AmBank building. If you’re not taking part, it’s best to avoid driving to KL city centre tomorrow. Take the train instead.

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• Volvo plans 13 new models by 2030 – seven models for United States, European markets; six models for China

  In Cars, International News, Volvo / by Mick Chan / 18 September 2026 11:26 am

  

  2027 Volvo XC60 facelift

  Volvo Cars has revealed its plans to launch 13 new cars between now and 2030, which the carmaker calls the “largest and most ambitious” product expansion plan in its history.

  This product plan is comprised of seven new cars for Western markets and six new cars for China, with which Volvo plans to increase its market share in the BEV market, as well as with its third-generation hybrid models for customers who prefer not to go fully electric.

  Most recently emerged from Volvo are the 2027 XC60 facelift and XC90 facelift, which saw their respective plug-in hybrid variants get upgraded with larger batteries that offer up to 200 km of EV range in the case of the XC60, and up to 160 km for the XC90.

  

  

  According to Autocar, the seven new models for Western markets will use the firm’s existing SPA2 and SPA3 architectures – the former used in the EX90 and ES90, and the latter in the EX60 – and will be split between models for the United States and for Europe.

  For the latter, Volvo will offer a full BEV line-up by 2030, with the range to be comprised of new low- and high-body types”, which is taken to mean sedans and station wagons for the low-body type, and SUVs for the high-body type.

  Volvo chief technology officer Alexander Petrofski told the publication that different countries in Europe are adopting electrification at different rates, and as a result “an individual car will be offered with a BEV propulsion, a PHEV propulsion and a HEV (hybrid) propulsion”.

  

  

  While Volvo’s future models destined for European and American markets will use the SPA2 and SPA3 platforms with the HuginCore computing platform, investments toward the technology stack and manufacturing of these models “will decrease from today’s levels.”

  By contrast for China, Volvo Cars and Geely will collaborate to develop shared platforms, a dedicated tech stack for China and a shared parts and supply chain for cost-efficient development of cars for this region.

  Development of the upcoming models will require less investment than was needed previously because they will be based on existing architecture, which will help towards its goal of strong growth and drive EBIT beyond 8%.

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• Score great value from Cycle & Carriage this Malaysia Day season with a pre-owned Peugeot 3008, from RM78k!

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 18 September 2026 11:25 am

  

  Enrich your Malaysia Day celebrations this year even further with the great value on offer from Cycle & Carriage, where pre-owned examples of the Peugeot 3008 are on offer.

  Originally priced at RM169,888, the Peugeot 3008 is sold in pre-owned form at RM88,000. Even greater value comes with the Malaysia Day rebate of RM10,000, bringing the price of the pre-owned Peugeot 3008 to start from RM78,000!

  This brings you savings of more than RM90,000 compared to purchasing brand-new, which is more than 50% off the original MSRP. Be quick to enjoy this price, however, as the offer stands for a limited time only.

  Just as Malaysia Day follows the nation’s celebration of independence, this offer from Cycle & Carriage promises the freedom of motoring in your own automobile with the reassurance of support from a trusted network.

  The vehicles on offer in this promotion are ex-management and demonstrator vehicles, therefore there is a limited supply of vehicles of this kind. Be assured that these vehicles are inspected and refreshed before resale to customers, in order to provide the level of quality and condition you can trust. These will be available exclusively from Cycle & Carriage.

  Not only are these pre-owned vehicles from Cycle & Carriage priced attractively, they are also eligible for financing on monthly instalments comparable to some entry-level, national compact SUVs. Selected units are even eligible for interest rates at new-car levels!

  Book your test drive today with Cycle & Carriage at the following locations:

  • Cycle & Carriage George Town
  • Cycle & Carriage Cheras
  • Cycle & Carriage Kempas

  When you buy your Peugeot from Cycle & Carriage, you’ll get more than just renowned European automotive engineering; being a Cycle & Carriage customer also means access to trusted after-sales service you can rely on.

  Be sure to take advantage of this offer for your chance to own a proper, premium C-segment SUV at highly attractive prices. Explore Cycle & Carriage on Facebook and Instagram to find out more.

   

• Celebrate Malaysia Day with Wheelcorp Premium Setia Alam: certified pre-owned BMW, MINI cars from RM152k!

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 18 September 2026 11:24 am

  

  Looking for exceptional Malaysia Day offers on certified pre-owned BMW and MINI vehicles? Visit Wheelcorp Premium Setia Alam from September 18-20 to explore a wide selection of BMW Premium Selection models at attractive prices.

  These are not your run-of-the-mill used BMWs and MINIs. These approved pre-owned cars have gone through 360-degree technical and optical checks to ensure they’re in top condition, and with a full-service history, you’re covered by however many years of warranty is left. Nothing like leaving it to the experts, and in this case, the very brand itself.

  Let’s start with the BMWs on offer, many of which are very lightly used. The entry-level BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe is a popular sight on our roads, and you can have a 2025 BMW 218 from as low as RM152,000 or a 2026 BMW 218 M Sport for RM194,000. Fans of the evergreen BMW 3 Series will delight at a 2023 BMW 320i M Sport for just RM190,000.

  Want an SAV? How about a 2025 BMW X1 from as low as RM209,800 or a 2023 example from just RM178,800? There’s also a delivery-mileage 2024 (registered 2025) BMW X3 for just RM260,000. If you want an EV, a 2025 BMW i4 is going for RM209,000.

  MINI fans, you haven’t been forgotten – there’s a 2021 MINI Clubman S going for RM158,000 and a 2023 MINI Countryman for RM169,800.

  You may also want to check out the brand new cars – among these is the BMW X4, which is being offered with a cash rebate of up to RM60,000. How’s that for a deal?

  If you need yet another reason to be at Wheelcorp Premium Setia Alam over the September 18-20 weekend, there’s going to be a lucky draw that could see you take home a brand-new iPhone Duo! More on the event at Wheelcorp Premium’s website, Facebook and Instagram pages, or you can get in touch via WhatsApp.

  *Terms and conditions apply.

   

• H special number plate series – over RM25 million in bids recorded in first two days, bidding still open until Sept 20

  In Local News / by Anthony Lim / 18 September 2026 10:10 am

  

  On the evening of September 14, the road transport department (JPJ) launched the “H” series of number plates in conjunction with Malaysia Day 2026. As per the usual, the special series, of which the letter stands for Harmoni, spans registration numbers 1 to 9999.

  Today, the department announced that the response to the special plate series has been overwhelming, with the total bid value having exceeded RM25 million in the first two days since bidding opened on September 16.

  Early indications are that the series could see the highest price ever being paid for a vehicle license plate in Malaysia, surpassing the RM1.75 million recorded for the registration number FFF 1 in Junw 2024.

  

  Bidding for the H series, which the department says will be the final, single-letter series of registration plates to be issued, remains open online via the JPJeBid online bidding system until 10om on Sunday, September 20. Bidding results will be announced within 24 hours on September 21, JPJ said.

  Bids start from RM20,000 for golden numbers, from RM5,000 for premium numbers, from RM2,500 for attractive numbers, from RM500 for popular numbers and from RM300 for regular, running numbers. Like all other registration plates, the series is subject to terms and conditions on JPJeBid, and successful bids must be registered to a vehicle within a period of 12 months from the issuance of official bid results.

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• Electricity bill protection raised to 800 kWh for Sept-Dec 2026 – no AFA, retail charge, SST

  In Local News / by Paul Tan / 17 September 2026 11:04 pm

  

  The government has expanded the electricity bill protection threshold for domestic users from 600 kWh to 800 kWh a month, effective for usage from September until December 31, 2026. The announcement was made today by prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who described it as an immediate measure to ease cost of living pressures.

  Under the temporary measure, domestic users consuming up to 800 kWh a month are exempted from three bill components – the Automatic Fuel Adjustment (AFA), the RM10 monthly retail charge (Caj Peruncitan) and sales and service tax (SST). Previously, all three kicked in once monthly usage crossed 600 kWh.

  Anwar said the recent haze and hotter weather have pushed up electricity consumption in some households, taking their monthly usage past the 600 kWh mark and resulting in unusually high bills. That’s a real effect of how the tariff structure works – as explained in our guide to the TNB tariff introduced in July 2025, the AFA exemption is all-or-nothing, so a household that crosses the threshold pays the surcharge on its entire month’s usage, not just the excess – plus the RM10 retail charge and SST on top.

  With September’s AFA rate set at +3.67 sen/kWh, a household using 700 kWh would have paid around RM25.70 in AFA, RM10 in retail charge and about RM3.50 in SST – roughly RM39 now removed from the bill. At 800 kWh, the saving works out to about RM47. The timing matters too: our September AFA report noted projections of +3.36 sen/kWh for October, +2.81 for November and +5.48 for December, so the exemption covers what are expected to be the most expensive AFA months of the year, December especially.

  The prime minister credited TNB, the energy transition and water transformation ministry (PETRA) and the Energy Commission for enabling the measure to be implemented quickly, and said the government will continue to monitor fuel costs and energy market conditions to ensure tariff decisions balance the rakyat’s cost of living against supply security and the sustainability of the energy sector.

  Note that the protection applies to usage from September 2026, so it should already be reflected in bills covering this month’s consumption, and the threshold reverts to 600 kWh from January 1, 2027. Based on the government’s infographic, the 800 kWh figure replaces the 600 kWh limit across all three components; for households using more than 800 kWh, we understand the charges apply as per the existing structure at the higher threshold.

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• Proton eMas 5, eMas 7 EV and PHEV to undergo PDRM police car testing – Gentari to provide free charging

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan Lee / 17 September 2026 8:13 pm

  

  Proton has announced it handed over its eMas 5, eMas 7 EV and eMas 7 PHEV to the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) last week. This is so that the latter can evaluate the usability of electrified vehicles across different fleet and operational requirements under real-world conditions.

  The cars, each being Premium versions (top-spec Premium Plus in the case of the PHEV), will be tested for their drivability, practicality and charging requirements among others. This, the national carmaker said, will provide PDRM with practical insights into how EVs and PHEVs could fit its fleet needs. Gentari will provide free charging to streamline the process.

  “We are pleased to support PDRM through this evaluation, which will provide valuable insights into the usability and suitability of electrified vehicles for their requirements,” said deputy CEO Abdul Rashid bin Musa. “As more government agencies explore electrified mobility, Pro-Net [its new energy vehicle subsidiary] remains committed to working closely with our government partners and supporting Malaysia’s transition towards a more sustainable mobility ecosystem.”

  

  Proton stated this deepening of Pro-Net’s relationship with PDRM could open the door for its eMas models to be adopted for routine police operational duties – including crime-prevention patrols (i.e. a cop car) – subject to the outcome of the evaluation and future government considerations.

  It added that the evaluation comes amid growing interest among government ministries and agencies in exploring adding EVs and hybrids into their fleet, and that it aims to provide these agencies with first-hand experience of its models to support their assessments. The collaboration, it said, would also help provide “valuable insights into the requirements of institutional and fleet users.”

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• Volvo EX30 now priced at RM198,888 for MY2027 in Malaysia – sole Ultra variant renamed to P5 Long Range

  In Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News, Volvo / by Jonathan James Tan / 17 September 2026 7:49 pm

  

  The Volvo EX30 is now priced at RM198,888 for the 2027 model year in Malaysia, which is RM10k less than the one-motor Ultra we had before (the RM228,888 two-motor Ultra Twin Performance has been replaced by the recently-launched RM218,888 EX30 Cross Country), and rebates up to RM10,888 can be had currently.

  The variant has changed its name from Ultra to P5 Long Range (although the tailgate badge, funnily enough, says Extended Range). Otherwise, it’s pretty much unchanged, being still locally-assembled (CKD) in Shah Alam.

  The 272 PS/343 Nm one-motor RWD SUV retains its 69 kWh NMC battery, 5.3-second 0-100 km/h time and max 175 kW DC rate, but there are extremely minor changes to the claimed WLTP range and 10-80% charging time – 475 km versus 476 before, and 27 minutes versus 28 before.

  

  

  

  You can have your 2027 EX30 in Cloud Blue, Crystal White, Vapour Grey or Onyx Black (this black was dropped with the 2025 CKD car; now it’s back). Interior’s the same Indigo affair with fabric and Nordico upholstery, accompanied by recycled denim decor panels and blue air vents.

  The kit list continues to feature 19-inch five-spoke alloys with 245/45 tyres, full ADAS including Pilot Assist ACC, dual-zone air-con, powered front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 360 camera, a power tailgate, Digital Key Plus, Harman Kardon sound and a 12.3-inch touch-screen with built-in Google.

  The Volvo EX30 first hit our shores in September 2024, fully imported (CBU) from China. At launch there were three variants priced between RM189k and RM229k, but local assembly (CKD) in early 2025 dropped the base Plus variant. MY2026 then jettisoned the range-topping Ultra Twin Performance, whose reincarnation is the RM10k-cheaper Cross Country, launched just days ago.

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• Superbiker overshoots corner, rams into Audi in Jelebu

  In Bikes, Cars, Local Bike News, Local News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 17 September 2026 7:14 pm

  

  A video has surfaced on social media showing a superbike rider overshooting a corner and flying like a rag doll. User Zarul who uploaded the video recounted the crash, said the incident, which took place in Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, unfolded within seconds.

  According to the Audi driver who remains unnamed, the motorcyclist suffered a broken rib in the crash and is currently receiving treatment in hospital. “It could’ve been much worse,” the driver said, while reminding other road users to remain vigilant even when they are driving or riding safely.

  

  A second rider, presumably a compatriot of the first, also came a cropper, braking hard and losing traction just before he fell in front of the now stationary Audi. “Sometimes it’s not even you. You can be minding your own business and suddenly someone else’s mistake becomes your situation too,” the driver said, urging motorists to anticipate potential hazards, maintain sufficient space and pay attention to surrounding traffic.

  The incident also serves as a reminder that road crashes can happen within seconds, even when one party is simply going about their journey. “Cars can be repaired. What matters today is that everyone is still here and sometimes it’s not about being right. It’s about making it home,” the driver said, while thanking those who stopped to assist following the crash.

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• Watching videos whilst driving a hazard to road safety, regulations needed to curb dangerous trend – experts

  In Local News, Safety / by Anthony Lim / 17 September 2026 6:39 pm

  

  Mobile devices have become a way of life, their use seemingly perpetual, even inside a vehicle. While laws and enforcement aim to curb drivers’ direct use of them (wherever possible), the hands-free route now has a new issue to contend with, that of Malaysian drivers using devices – as well as built-in vehicle displays – to view entertainment content on them, as The Star reports.

  Road safety experts all agree that this growing trend – which also includes the use of aftermarket screens for such viewing – poses a hazard to road safety on a level equal to, or even greater than mobile phone use, given the higher level of distraction in such cases.

  According to Universiti Putra Malaysia road safety research centre head Law Teik Hua, watching entertainment content while driving required sustained visual and mental engagement. While drivers might look back at the road periodically when watching a film, part of their visual attention would inevitably remain focused on the screen.

  He said even brief glances at a screen could be dangerous in rapidly changing situations such as at intersections, in heavy ­traffic or at high speeds. “Mental distraction is also a concern as drivers could remain visually focused on the road but have their minds occupied by the film. Film-viewing driver distraction can therefore pose comparable levels of road safety hazards as mobile phone use, or even greater hazards under certain circumstances,” he said.

  Law said regulations should specifically prohibit drivers from watching entertainment content, rather than restricting the use of onboard displays for navigation, safety information, reversing cameras and other legitimate driving functions.

  

  Road safety council of Malaysia executive council member Datuk Suret Singh agreed that specific regulations and guidelines should be introduced to govern the use of built-in screens on vehicles. “Entertainment content should be meant solely for passengers, not drivers” he said.

  Citing a transport ministry study, which found that 45% of drivers involved in road accidents were using mobile phones while driving, he said that it only took a two-second loss of full focus on the road for a deadly road crash to occur.

  Concurring with the views of the duo was Malaysian Road and Transport Safety Association president Md Hairolzaman Muhamed Nor, who said watching videos could cause severe visual and cognitive distraction, including “inattentional blindness”, in which a driver might look towards the road but fail to process what was happening.

  He said unlike navigation, which generally required only a brief glance, videos required a person to follow moving images continuously. He added that the combined visual, ­cognitive and auditory distractions from videos potentially reduce a driver’s awareness levels. “This could delay braking by 1.5 to two seconds. At 90 km/h, a two-second delay means the vehicle has travelled about 50 metres before the brakes are applied,” he said.

  Hairolzaman called for existing road traffic laws to be expanded to cover “digital distraction,” and suggested higher mandatory fines, demerit points under the Kejara system or suspension of driving licences for those found guilty of installing bypass software allowing videos to be watched on vehicle screens while driving.

  

  Meanwhile, Bukit Aman traffic investi­gation and enforcement depart­ment (JSPT) director Datuk Seri Muhammed Hasbullah Ali said that Malaysia already prohibits non-hands-free phone use while driving, under Rule 17A(1) of the Road Traffic Rules 1959.

  He said that motorists should not assume that watching entertainment content while driving is acceptable simply because the law did not specifically name a particular gadget or type of screen in regulations.

  He said using a screen for entertainment is not an offence if it is meant for the front passenger or rear passengers, provided it did not obstruct or distract the driver. “From an enforcement perspective, we will consider its positioning, manner of use and whether it affects the driver’s vision, attention or control of the vehicle,” he said.

  “If a driver is distracted by a screen and drives without proper care and attention, the case can also be investigated under relevant provisions of the Road Transport Act 1987, including Section 43(1) for careless and inconsiderate driving, depending on the circumstances and evidence,” he told The Star.

  “The crucial point is hands-free does not mean attention-free. Even if a device is mounted or a screen is built into the vehicle, drivers should not watch entertainment content while driving. Technology will continue to evolve but the fundamental responsibility of the driver remains the same. Whatever the device, the driver’s attention must remain on the task of driving with the utmost safety. Your eyes and attention should be on the road, ensuring your safety and that of other road users,” he said.

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• 2027 Volvo ES90 in Malaysia – 662 km WLTP, 21-inch alloys, Nappa leather, wireless Android Auto; RM340k

  In Cars, Local News, Volvo / by Mick Chan / 17 September 2026 5:40 pm

  

  Volvo Car Malaysia has revealed the ES90 that has received a range of updates for the 2027 model year, not long after the battery-electric crossover sedan was launched in Malaysia in January this year.

  For Malaysia, the ES90 update was announced at the launch of the updated, 2027 EX90 electric SUV earlier this month.

  Key mechanical specifications of the ES90 continues unchanged for the 2027 model year, this being the Ultra Single Motor Extended Range variant that packs a single, rear-axle mounted motor delivering 333 PS and 480 Nm, propelling the crossover sedan from 0-100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and to a limited top speed of 180 km/h.

  

  

  

  

  This draws from a 92 kWh nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) battery pack that can be charged at up to 350 kW DC for a 10-80% recharge in 22 minutes, or via AC at up to 11 kW to get a 0-100% charge in 10 hours.

  Battery range is 662 km WLTP, increased by 11 km from before, likely due to the new wheels measuring 21 inches in diameter compared to the previous 22-inch specification.

  Updates also apply to the interior of the ES90, where Nappa leather upholstery is found (succeeding the Nordico synthetic upholstery of before). This is offered in Charcoal or Cardamom colour schemes, paired with birch wood interior trim; both leather colours are also found in the updated 2027 EX90.

  

  

  

  

  These are accompanied by an updated exterior colour palette, with the new additions being Mulberry Red as seen here, and Aurora Silver. The two new exterior colours join the existing selection comprised of Onyx Black, Crystal White and Vapour Grey, while Denim Blue has been discontinued.

  Also updated is the ES90’s infotainment system, which now supports wireless Android Auto to go with the already-wireless Apple CarPlay.

  Finally, price. the 2027 Volvo ES90 is tagged at RM339,888 on-the-road without insurance, which is unchanged from before, though it does come with cash rebates of up to RM17,600, as well as a Volvo wallbox worth RM3,990 for a total value of up to RM21,590.

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• Desaru Coast to get new RM10m karting circuit end 2026

  In Local News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 17 September 2026 4:53 pm

  

  A new RM10 million karting circuit is being built at Desaru Coast in Johor, with the facility targeted to open by the end of 2026 under a lease-and-build investment by Singapore-based Arina International Holding. Construction is underway at Riverside, where the circuit will form part of The Sports Arina, an integrated sports and leisure development.

  The facility will feature a competitive karting track with professional-grade karts and an electronic timing system, alongside an air-conditioned KF Kiddy Circuit for children aged four to 12. Spectator seating, dining areas and merchandise outlets are also planned, according to a press release on Arina’s website.

  The circuit will cater to recreational drivers, corporate groups and motorsport enthusiasts, with race packages and organised events planned. The kiddy circuit will offer individual sessions and birthday packages, complementing three outdoor pickleball courts which opened at Riverside in July, with three more courts and padel facilities planned for a later phase.

  

  Arina International chairman Richard Tan said Desaru Coast’s accessibility and established tourism infrastructure made it a suitable location for the facility, with the company targeting visitors from Malaysia and Singapore. The company operates the KF1 Karting brand, five kiddy karting outlets across Johor and Kuala Lumpur, and The Sports Arina facility at Jalan Kayu in Singapore.

  It has also supported the Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix since 2008. At Desaru Coast, the new facility will add to existing attractions including Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast and The Els Club Desaru Coast’s 45-hole golf offering.

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• Chery Tiggo Cross update for Malaysia – new face?

  In Cars, Chery, Local News / by Jonathan James Tan / 17 September 2026 4:27 pm

  The Chery Tiggo Cross has only been on sale in Malaysia for a little over a year, but it looks like we could be getting an update soon. “‘Sporty’ just got a new face”, says the teaser above. This suggests that there could be some changes to the front end at the very least, although that’s not immediately apparent from the still above.

  In fact, earlier this month, user Wen Jie posted a dashcam video on the paultan.org Automotive/Car Discussion Group, showing a trade-plated Tiggo Cross with prominent (possibly chromed) rectangular tailpipe surrounds, which the current car doesn’t have. That aside, it’s hard to ascertain how much the lower rear bumper has changed, if at all.

  

  This one’s a bit of a mystery, as globally, there isn’t (yet) a facelift newer than the car we have now, as far as we know. It’s worth noting that our Tiggo Cross is already the culmination of a few facelifts – it can actually trace its roots all the way back to 2017 in China.

  As it stands now, the Turbo costs RM89k and the Hybrid RM100k, although there are limited-time deals that could bring the starting price down to RM81k. Both have 1.5 litre four-cylinder engines, but they couldn’t drive more differently from each other. Dive deep via our comprehensive video review here. What updates do you think we’ll get?

  (Current) Chery Tiggo Cross Turbo in Malaysia

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  (Current) Chery Tiggo Cross Hybrid in Malaysia

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