Perodua introduces app-based car rental service at selected local universities under its “Mobility as a Lifestyle” initiative

Earlier today, Perodua announced that it has partnered with three local universities, Universiti Utara Malaysia, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (Malaysia-Japan International Institute of Technology) to introduce an app-based car-rental service designed specifically for students and university staff. The application,  called UCar-e (pronounced as ‘You Car”), is Perodua’s latest initiative under its “Mobility as a Lifestyle” concept, which focuses on transforming the driving experience from conventional vehicle ownership into a more service-oriented mobility solution.

Recently, Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad. launched UCar-e initiative at Inasis Perodua, UUM, in a ceremony also attended by UUM Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Ahmad Martadha Mohamed. He explained that the UCar-e application enables users to locate vehicles parked at designated locations within the campus. Users are also provided with specific parking zones where the vehicles can be returned after use. 

140 Years. 140 Places.” The facelifted S-Class global tour celebrating the enduring legacy of Mercedes-Benz has made its Malaysian stop

The recently launched, facelifted Mercedes-Benz S-Class has made is to Malaysia. However, this isn't the official launch of the model here but three S-Classes that are going on a 140-location global drive marking 140 Years of Innovation since Carl Benz’s patent, which is also the first automobile in the world.. Mercedes-Benz calls the journey that commemorates a legacy built on innovation, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to shaping the future of mobility. Personally, I call it a grand tour that intends to showcase the reliability and continent crushing ability of the newly facelifted W223 S-Class, and I do believe that it will succeed in doing so.

The event, which was graced by the presence of HRH Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, the Sultan of Selangor. showcases the brand's past and current cars. Being the first country outside Germany to locally assemble the iconic Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a stop in this global tour is a testament to Malaysia’s world-class talent and its strategic place in the global Mercedes-Benz family.

Denza B8 hybrid SUV launched - Its First-Ever Dual Mode Off-Road (DMO) Super Hybrid SUV in Malaysia - 2 Variants with Prices Starting from RM458,800

DENZA Malaysia today officially launched the new DENZA B8, priced at RM518,800 for the Premium variant and RM458,800 for the Dynamic variant, marking the brand’s first-ever DMO Super Hybrid model introduction in Malaysia. Yes, the price is on the higher side of things even when compared to the RM300,000 thereabouts Denza D9 MPV. But one must note that Denza is a premium brand and you' re actually getting a MASSIVE 600HP and 760Nm torque. It is the most affordable brand new SUV that you can do 0-100kmh in under 4.8 seconds and also have a fully electric range of about 115km and a total of 800km combined range.  Bloody impressive for a hybrid SUV if you ask me.

Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2026 - 12 to 21 June 2026 at MITEC, KL

I attended the media briefing for the upcoming Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show 2026 (KLIMS 2026) and it will be on for ten (10) days starting 12 to 21 June 2026. The venua fir this is at MITEC, the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), in Kuala Lumpur.

From what I gather, this is an automotive/ mobility themed lifestyle experience with everything from a car show featuring vehicles from at least 18 car brands including Malaysian brands Perodua, Proton (featuring Proton & also Smart) as well as brands from China and Japan. Unfortunately, it seems the European car brands will not be participating so it's very much an Asian only car show. 

JAC N90 Euro 5 Light Truck launched in Malaysia

JAC Auto (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd has officially launched the all-new JAC N90 light-duty truck, engineered to meet the evolving needs of modern logistics and transport operations. Unveiled at the recently held Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo 2026 at the Mines International Exhibition & Convention Centre (MIECC), the event was graced by Transport Minister YB Anthony Loke, who officiated the launch during his visit to the JAC Auto Malaysia booth. 

Angka-Tan Motor Launches the Foton Aumark S Euro 5 AMT at MCVE 2026

Angka-Tan Motor Sdn Bhd (ATM), the official distributor of Foton trucks in Malaysia, had launched the Foton Aumark S Euro 5 AMT at the recently held Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo 2026 (MCVE 2026). This marks a milestone as the first Chinese light-duty truck in Malaysia equipped with an Automated Manual Transmission (AMT). The system is engineered to deliver seamless gear shifts, reduce driver fatigue, and enhance fuel efficiency particularly in demanding stop-and-go city operations.  The Foton Aumark S Euro 5 AMT is priced at RM128,800 and comes with a six-year/300,000 km warranty.

The launch, which was officiated by Transport Minister YB Anthony Loke, responds directly to rising pressures in last-mile delivery, the need for fuel-efficient and driver-friendly vehicles, and the demand for high uptime and reliability. Built under the Super Truck Global Innovation Alliance, the truck’s rigid body structure meets international standards such as UN ECE R29, ensuring cab occupant protection. Its reliability has been proven through over 3 million km of real-world testing across diverse conditions.

The Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE 2026 opens, and will be ongoing till this Saturday 16th of May - This year is a spotlight on ESG and I also think this edition marks the start of China brands taking over the Commercial Vehicle sector like the Passenger Car sector

The Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Exhibition (MCVE) has returned for its seventh edition, opening with its most impressive line-up of seminars, presentations, and talks to date. This year’s event has drawn a whole lot of participation from Chinese brands, making a shift in the usual parcipants which were usually the European and Japanese brands.. Many of the brands are seizing the opportunity to debut new products, while others are using the platform to spark vital industry discussions. Personally, I was surprised with the lack of those traditional big brands and this could be the start of a revolution in the commercial vehicle sector here in Malaysia. Mark my words folks (more thoughts at the end of this article)

As Malaysia’s first and largest commercial vehicle expo and probably  the biggest in Southeast Asia, MCVE continues to set the benchmark for future-focused transport solutions. The three-day exhibition was officially launched by YB Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport.

Kia Sales Malaysia launches Kia Maintenance Plan and a Ownership Experience event at the Glenmarie 3S Centre- Kia Tasman Pick up viewed at the centre

Today, we spent the morning with Kia Sales Malaysia (KSM) at their flagship Glenmarie 3S centre in Selangor. KSM is strengthening its commitment to an even more customer-focused ownership experience through the first-ever Kia Ownership Experience event, held from 11 to 17 May 2026 exclusively at the Glenmarie centre only . Right now, the response has been great according to them as even older vehicles sold by the previous distributors and dealers are also included in this Ownership Experience initiative. This includes models as old as the Kia Sephia and older Kia Sportages too.

Kia Sales Malaysia appoints Cycle & Carriage as their authorised dealers - Leveraging the long established dealer to support Kia's growth in Malaysia

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 Kia Sales Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (KSM) recently appointed of Cycle & Carriage (C&C) as its latest authorised dealer partner, marking a significant milestone in Kia’s long-term growth strategy and network expansion in Malaysia. The collaboration between Kia Sales Malaysia and Cycle & Carriage unites twomajor forces within the Malaysian automotive landscape, offering Kia customers enhanced customer touchpoints, improved aftersales support, and elevated ownership experiences in line with Kia’s latest global standards.

The Toyota Yaris Cross SUV finally makes it to Malaysia - 1.5l and 1.5l hybrid variants from a competitive RM99,900 onwards

Finally, the all-new Toyota Yaris Cross B segment SUV gets launched in Malaysia. This has been loooong awaited and we finally get this new Toyota compact SUV here.  I managed to attend UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd's (UMWT) launch of the all-new 2026 Toyota Yaris Cross, which is available in both 1,5liter Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and 1.5liter Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) variants. The model is offered from RM99,900.00 for the 1.5S ICE variant and RM109,900.00 for the 1.5S HEV variant.

Peugeot Motorcycles, in partnership with Aveta International launches in Malaysia - Currently with a 4 Model lineup targeting the more affluent urban segment

So, Peugeot Motocycles has made its official entry into Malaysia.,The launch of the more premium oriented motorcycle brand is in partnership with Aveta International and they have positioned Malaysia as a strategic hub for the brand’s Southeast Asian expansion. According to the parties, this introduction reflects growing demand for stylish, lifestyle-oriented urban mobility solutions especially here in Malaysia where there is a demand for premium products as the income for Malaysians have improved in the past two decades or so. 

All-New Audi Q5 Launches in Malaysia -Two 2.0 TFSI variants from RM352,990 onwards

PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), the folks who are the official distributors of Audi here have announced the launch of the all-new Audi Q5 Advanced (in Red above and herein) and Audi Q5 Sportback S line (in green above and herein). This is the third-generation Audi Q5 (GU series) and made its debut in November 2024 for the 2025 model year. Malaysia gets the = Audi Q5 Sportback S line and more entry equipped Audi Q5 Advanced variants for the recommended retail price of RM352,990 for the Q5 Advanced, and RM421,990 for the Q5 Sportback S line.

MG Motor Malaysia celebrates 2 years in Malaysia - Expect more from the marque and a slightly improved CKD MGS5 EV SUV this year onwards

As part of its 2nd Anniversary: Passion To Drive event was held at Bamboo Hills in Kuala Lumpur. This was a small gathering for members of the media where , MG Motor Malaysia celebrated a strong start to 2026, mentioned key product milestones, growing customer engagement, and continued expansion plans as the brand strengthens its presence in the Malaysian market. While they have been somewhat quiet in terms of news releases over the past couple of months, this highlighted what they have been doing, mentioning future plans as well as announcing some changes to the latest, 2026 MG S5 EV in its locally assembled, CKD form.

Refreshed GAC GS3 EMZOOM launched - Minor enhancements notably a new front grille and two tone exterior option for Premium R variant

 

WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), the official distributor and assembler of GAC vehicles in Malaysia, has released a refreshed GAC GS3 EMZOOM.  “Refreshed, Ready, Revved Up,” - the update brings minor design enhancements, natably including a redesigned Flowing Diamond Star front grille and a new two-tone exterior option for the Premium R variant. The EMZOOM is now available in four colour options: Graphite Grey with Black Roof, Super Star Silver with Black Roof, Frost White with Black Roof, and Asphalt Black.

Own a Volvo Selekt Certified Used Car at exceptional value. For a limited time, 100 premium pre- owned vehicles has been released to all Volvo showrooms nationwide

Following the overwhelming response to previous Selekt sales events, Volvo Car Malaysia is again offering customers the opportunity to own a Volvo Selekt Certified Used Car at exceptional value. For a limited time, a curated collection of 100 premium pre-owned vehicles has been made available to all Volvo showrooms nationwide.

Unlike traditional pre-owned offerings, this exclusive 100-unit fleet is sourced directly from Volvo Car

Malaysia’s executive corporate fleet and dealership demo units. For customers seeking Volvo’s latest

models, this release provides a 'fast-track' route for customers to secure a well cared-for vehicle without the typical waiting period. This is basically slightly used Volvo cars, run and maintained by Volvo Car here according to their standards. Since it is pre-owned, it should also be priced lower than a brand new one but with decently low mileage on their clocks.

Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 6 N are now officially open for bookings here in Malaysia. Now on display at the Penang Autoshow 2026 from 1-3 May

 Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) recently announced at the Penang Autoshow 2026 that the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 6 N are now officially open for bookings here in Malaysia. Also on display at the motorshow (which is happening this weekend and ongoing at the time of writing) are the cars mentioned, so visitors to the show will be treated to a special showcase of the IONIQ 5 N, allowing enthusiasts to get up close with the 2024 World Performance Car winner at the Penang Autoshow 2026 from 1–3 May 2026. (note - all photos here are of the Ioniq 5 N)

JETOUR Malaysia set to launch the T1 compact SUV soon. Bookings open and estimated prices from RM143k onwards

JETOUR Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the 2026 JETOUR T1 SUV. This is a smaller sized SUV compared to the recently launched T2 and will he even more competitively priced in the Rm150,000 vehicle segment. If you like squared off, chunky looking SUVs, this should be something for you to look at.

Porsche Malaysia updates the Cayenne for 2026 with enhanced styling (new colour and 21inch wheels as standard) and connectivity - Also Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupe and Manufaktur Packages available

Kuala Lumpur. Porsche Malaysia, represented by Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), has revealed the 2026 model year locally-assembled Porsche Cayenne which now features a new exterior colour option, expanded connectivity and more standard equipment specified exclusively for the Malaysian market. The improved equipment are larger 21-inch RS Spyder wheels as standard, a new exterior colour option in Arctic Grey and Extended Porsche Connect services for enhanced user experience

Lotus Cars Malaysia Celebrates 30 Years of Legacy, Community and the Road Ahead with a memorable get together of those that brought the marque here

 Lotus Cars Malaysia Celebrates 30 Years of Legacy, Community and the Road Ahead with a gathering of owners, enthusiasts and the media.  Held under the theme “3 Decades. 1 Future.”, the milestone celebration brought together legacy icons, owners, partners, media, and members of the Lotus community to honor the people and defining moments that have shaped Lotus’ journey in Malaysia since 1996. I had to attend it of course. This was something different from the usual and a milestone for Lotus Cars.

Michelin Primacy 5 tyre range expanded in Malaysia

Michelin Malaysia recently announced that the ‘MICHELIN Primacy 5’ tyre range is now extended to equip SUVs, which are now the most popular range of cars here in Malaysia. Beyond premium driving comfort, lasting safety, and EV compatibility, the extended line also delivers peace of mind even on rough road conditions.