Sleek and Stylish : Test Driving Malaysia’s 10 Popular New Car Arrivals
In Malaysia, the automotive market is abuzz with excitement as car enthusiasts eagerly await the latest models of new cars. Whether you’re looking to invest in your dream car or replace your old one, the choices are diverse to meet different budgets and needs. The market offers a spectrum of options, from sleek and stylish sedans to practical and family-friendly MPVs. For those who prioritize sustainability, there’s a growing interest in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids, which are not only premium and chic but also energy-saving and fuel-efficient.
Safety is a paramount concern, and the latest models boast cutting-edge features to ensure a secure driving experience. From smart technology that assists in parking and lane-keeping to innovative engine designs that prioritize both speed and mileage, these cars are engineered for better comfort and a thrilling drive. Additionally, many come with generous warranties, reflecting the confidence manufacturers have in their quality and design. So, whether you’re a spec-savvy buyer looking for a popular model or a family in search of a reliable vehicle, the Malaysian market offers an array of choices, making it an exciting time to test drive the newest additions to the automotive scene.
BYD Dolphin
Sime Darby Beyond Auto has introduced the BYD Dolphin to the Malaysian market. This remarkable vehicle embraces the innovative ‘Ocean Aesthetics’ design philosophy, characterized by its sleek bodywork, sharp crease lines, and fluid contours, resulting in a confident and elegant appearance driven by an all-electric powertrain. The BYD Dolphin prioritizes safety with its advanced blade battery technology and state-of-the-art safety features, ensuring a secure driving experience. Moreover, it offers a spacious interior akin to that of C-Segment vehicles, ensuring a comfortable journey for all passengers. For further information, please visit their official website.
Advantages of the BYD Dolphin include:
- Spacious, almost a C-Segment car.
- Relatively affordable price.
Drawbacks of the BYD Dolphin encompass:
- Slow charging.
- Pricy service fee.
Details of BYD Dolphin:
| Car Type: | Full EV car |
|---|---|
| Range : | Dynamic Standard Range, Premium Extended Range |
| Max. Power: | 70 – 150kW |
| Max. Torque: | 180 – 310 Nm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | 340 – 427 km |
| Charging Time: | 32 A, 50 km of range per hour |
| Engine/Motor Type: | Permanent magnet synchronous motor |
| Drivetrain: | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Colors : | Grey and blue |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | 7.0 s |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM100,530.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | 6 years or 150,000km |
| Service Package: | Starting from RM 1,688.00 |
Click here to find out more
BMW i7
The BMW i7 represents the pinnacle of fully electric automobiles, seamlessly merging electric performance with a captivating multisensory entertainment experience, resulting in an unforgettable journey on the road. In the new BMW i7, you’ll discover driving pleasure redefined for the next generation. With a staggering 400 kW of power propelling you forward and an impressive 795 Nm of torque for exhilarating acceleration, you can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. The innovative eDrive propulsion system ensures near-silent operation and zero local emissions, providing a serene driving environment.
The BMW i7 boasts an impressive electric range of up to 615 kilometers, making it ideal for everyday destinations. It achieves this with remarkable efficiency, consuming only 19.7 to 18.9 kWh/100km, thanks to cutting-edge technologies like energy recuperation during braking. To craft your very own BMW i7, we invite you to explore the customization options on our official website. Contact your nearest dealer to arrange a test drive and experience the future of electric mobility firsthand.
Advantages of the BMW i7 include:
- Fast charging and long driving range.
- Fast acceleration.
- Easy service.
Drawbacks of the BMW i7 encompass:
- Downpayment is required.
- Higher range car.
Details of BMW i7:
| Car Type: | Full EV car |
|---|---|
| Range : | M Sport |
| Max. Power: | 195 kW |
| Max. Torque: | 795 Nm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | 615 km |
| Charging Time: | 32 A, 72.5 km of range per hour |
| Engine/Motor Type: | Electric engine with automatic transmission |
| Drivetrain: | All-Wheel Drive |
| Colors : | Black Sapphire, Mineral White, Oxide Grey, M Brooklyn Grey, Aventurine Red, BMW Individual Dravit Grey, BMW Individual Tanzanite Blue |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | 4.7 s |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 729,800.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | 5 Years / Unlimited Mileage |
| Service Package: | 5 Years / 100,000 km |
Click here to find out more.
Chery Tiggo 8 Pro
The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, a 7-seater SUV, boasts lavish detailing and design, along with a host of cutting-edge comfort, safety, and convenience features. It stands as a premium SUV tailored for the ambitious businessperson and their entire family. Prepare to embark on a new era of automotive technology with the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro. From its advanced infotainment system to its intelligent safety features, this SUV seamlessly weaves innovation into every facet of your driving experience. It keeps you connected, entertained, and safeguarded while on the road. Notably, the entire vehicle exterior is constructed from galvanized steel plates, while the body comprises multiple blocks of Bentler ultra-high strength thermal forming steel with a remarkable yield strength exceeding 1500 Mpa.
Advantages of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro include:
- Safe and comfortable 7-seaters vehicle suitable for family traveling.
- All variants get stability control and 7 airbags
- Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity
Drawbacks of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro encompass:
- Slow acceleration.
Details of Chery Tiggo 8 Pro:
| Car Type: | Petrol (7.4L/100km) |
|---|---|
| Range : | – |
| Power : | 256 hp |
| Max. Torque: | 390 Nm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | – |
| Charging Time: | – |
| Engine/Motor Type: | 2.0L Petrol Engine, In-line 4 Cylinder 16 valve |
| Drivetrain: | Front Wheel Drive |
| Colors : | Dark Black, Khaki White |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | 8.4 s |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 159,800.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | 7 Years / 150,000 km |
| Service Package: | Free for the first 1000km service, service fee around RM 351.45 – RM 1227.90, depending on mileage. |
Click here to find out more.
Honda WR-V
The Honda WR-V, a compelling offering in the A-segment/small B-segment SUV category, combines cutting-edge style with remarkable performance. You’ll experience the unparalleled power and exhilarating acceleration of its extraordinary 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engine. Enhancing visibility and safety, the Honda LaneWatch feature effectively minimizes blind spots during lane changes. Moreover, it is equipped with a range of advanced safety features, including rear seat reminder, walk-away auto lock, ISOFIX I-SIZE compatibility, a multi-angle reverse camera, emergency stop signal (ESS), G-Force control (G-Con), vehicle stability assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), and the unique Honda Sensing system, ensuring a secure drive.
Advantages of the Honda WR-V include:
- Affordable price.
- Good warranty and service package.
- Fuel saving car.
Drawbacks of the Honda WR-V encompass:
- The CVT exhibits a noticeable lack of vigor during overtaking maneuvers.
Details of Honda WR-V:
| Car Type: | Petrol (6.0L/100km) |
|---|---|
| Range : | 1.5L S, 1.5L E, 1.5L V, 1.5L RS |
| Power: | 6,600rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 4,300rpm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | – |
| Charging Time: | – |
| Engine/Motor Type: | 4 Cylinder, 16 valve, DOHC i-VTEC |
| Drivetrain: | Front Wheel Drive |
| Colors : | Platinum White Pearl, Stellar Diamond Pearl, Meteoriod Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Ignite Red Metallic |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | 11 s |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 89,900.00 – RM 107,900.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | 5 Years / Unlimited Mileage |
| Service Package: | Free Labour Service applicable up to 5 times within 100,00km or 5 years |
Click here to find out more.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
Hyundai Ioniq 6 is the winner of the 2023 World Car Awards and has swept the triple categories which are World Car of the Year, World Electric Vehicle and World Car Design of the Year. The aesthetic and functional blend harmoniously in the streamlined silhouette of Ioniq 6. Evoking the naturally sculpted beauty of a river stone with a simple, aerodynamic, and sensuous silhouette design, the Electrified Streamliner offers optimized spatiality and new typology to lead the EV mobility era. Ioniq 6 is designed to give you stress-free driving because it can travel 614 km on a single charge. It only needs 18 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% with its ultra-fast charging. Driving Ioniq 6, you will experience dynamic driving with a top speed of 185 km/h and powerful acceleration that reaches 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds.
Advantages of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 include:
- Fast charging and long driving range.
- Fast acceleration.
- Relatively affordable.
Drawbacks of the Hyundai Ioniq 6 encompass:
- Relatively higher service fee.
Details of Hyundai Ioniq 6:
| Car Type: | Electric car |
|---|---|
| Range : | Max RWD, Max AWD |
| Power: | 168 – 239 kW |
| Max. Torque: | 350 – 605 Nm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | 519 – 614 km |
| Charging Time: | 7.1 hours (AC 11 kW) |
| Engine/Motor Type: | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) |
| Drivetrain: | Single rear-wheel-drive electric motor |
| Colors: | Abyss Black Pearl, Gravity Gold Matte, Biophilic Blue Pearl, Nocturne Grey Matte, Dive Blue Solid |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | 5.1 – 7.4 s |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 289,888.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | Standard Warranty Package (24 months/ 50,000 km); Extended Warranty Package (60 months/ 300,000 km) |
| Service Package: | RM 140.00 – RM 2202.40 depending on mileage. |
Click here to find out more.
Nissan Serena
The new Nissan Serena embodies premium design, meticulously crafted down to the smallest detail. This thoughtfully designed vehicle exudes a premium allure, seamlessly blending true MPV character with style, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.
A majestic chrome Nissan V-Motion front grille seamlessly connects to the redesigned LED headlamps, giving the New Serena a bold and assertive stance. Confidence takes center stage with the latest Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies, particularly the 360-degree Safety Shield, ensuring the safety of you and your family on the road while creating memorable moments together.
Whether you’re navigating the city during the day or embarking on a weekend road trip, Nissan’s 2.0L Twin CVTC (Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control) engine, coupled with the X-Tronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) featuring Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), provides a potent drive with class-leading fuel efficiency. The S-Hybrid system incorporates an energy control (ECO) electric motor, managing the idling stop system and offering additional torque assist during start-up acceleration. The Dual Arm Tensioners (DAT) within the engine maintain optimal belt tension, reducing friction, power loss, and boosting fuel efficiency. Additionally, the ECO mode guides the driver in achieving improved fuel efficiency.
Advantages of the Nissan Serena include:
- Spacious 7-seaters MPV).
- Relatively low fuel consumption.
Drawbacks of the Nissan Serena encompass:
- Slow acceleration.
Details of Nissan Serena:
| Car Type: | Hybrid car (7.0 L/100 km) |
|---|---|
| Range : | 2.0L Highway Star, 2.0L Premium Highway Star Package |
| Power : | 6000 rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 4400 rpm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | – |
| Charging Time: | – |
| Engine/Motor Type: | DOHC with Twin CVTC (Continuously VAriable-valve Timing Control), 4 Cylinder, 16-valve, direct fuel injection |
| Drivetrain: | Front Wheel Drive |
| Colors : | Dark Metal Grey, Diamond Black, Brilliant White, Radiant Red, Tungsten Silver |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h) : | – |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 149,888.00 – RM 163,888..00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | 3 years/ 100,000 km whichever comes first |
| Service Package: | 6 sessions of service are given FOC (1000 km, 10,000 km, 30,000 km, 50,000 km, 70,000 km & 90,000 km), RM 170.30 – RM 1145.70 depending on mileage |
Click here to find out more.
Kia Niro EV
The Kia Niro EV arrives with a commanding and confident exterior design. Inside, it offers a spacious yet minimalist environment adorned with eco-friendly materials. It showcases innovation in advanced technology, connectivity, and safety features. Together with cutting-edge advancements in electrical powertrains, the all-new Niro EV represents a substantial leap forward in sustainable driving technology.
Powering the all-new Niro EV is a 64.8 kWh lithium-ion battery linked to the electric motor, providing an estimated range of up to an impressive 460 km on a full charge. Moreover, it offers the convenience of powering your electrical devices, both inside and outside the car. With its vehicle-to-load feature delivering up to 3.6 kW of power, it can easily support various lifestyle accessories such as coffee machines, electric kettles, or even projectors. This makes the all-new Niro EV the ideal choice for those who relish road trips and camping adventures.
Advantages of the Kia Niro EV include:
- Suitable for road trips and camping lovers.
Drawbacks of the Kia Niro EV encompass:
- Less compatible price.
Details of Kia Niro EV:
| Car Type: | Electric car |
|---|---|
| Range : | – |
| Power: | 201 Hp |
| Max. Torque: | 255 Nm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | 460 km |
| Charging Time: | 6 hr 20 min (10 – 100%), 11 kW |
| Engine/Motor Type: | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) |
| Drivetrain: | 2WD |
| Colors : | Snow White Pearl, Cityscape Green, MIneral Blue |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | 7.8 s |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 256,000.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | 5 years/ 150,000 km whichever comes first |
| Service Package: | – |
Click here to find out more.
Proton X70
The Proton X70 boasts a refined design and redefined connectivity, but its most alluring feature is its responsive performance. It is equipped with a 1.5L TGDi Engine that delivers a potent yet efficient drive, offering 130 kW of power and 255 Nm of torque. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, featuring a manual mode, ensures a swifter, smoother, and more responsive gear-shifting experience. You have the choice of three drive modes—normal, eco, or sport—to tailor your driving style.
For your safety while on the road, the Proton X70 is equipped with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW), which automatically alert and apply brakes when a potential frontal collision is detected. Its Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC) seamlessly switches between high and low beams when oncoming vehicles approach, enhancing your safety and nighttime driving comfort.
Advantages of the Proton X70 include:
- Relatively affordable.
- Under category 1.5.
Drawbacks of the Proton X70 encompass:
- Relatively high fuel consumption.
Details of Proton X70:
| Car Type: | Petrol (7.8 L/100 km) |
|---|---|
| Range : | 1.5 TGDI Standard 2 WD, 1.5 TGDI Executive 2 WD, 1.5 TGDI Executive AWD, 1.5 TGDI Premium 2 WD |
| Power : | 550 rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 255 Nm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | – |
| Charging Time: | – |
| Engine/Motor Type: | 3 Cylinders In-Line 12 Valve DOHC, TGDi |
| Drivetrain: | 2WD / All-Wheel Drive |
| Colors: | 6 colors available |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | 9.5 s |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 98,800.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | 5 years/ unlimited mileage |
| Service Package: | 3 times free labour service |
Click here to find out more.
Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y has been meticulously engineered to epitomize safety within its class. Its design incorporates a low center of gravity, a robust body structure, and expansive crumple zones, ensuring an unparalleled level of protection. Beyond safety, the Model Y offers remarkable versatility, accommodating up to five passengers alongside their cargo. Each second-row seat can independently fold flat, delivering adaptable storage for items like skis, furniture, luggage, and more.
The Model Y’s liftgate opens to reveal a low trunk floor, simplifying the process of loading and unloading with effortless speed. Beneath the surface, two ultra-responsive electric motors act independently, digitally managing torque distribution to both the front and rear wheels. This precise control enhances handling, traction, and stability across various terrains, including rain, snow, mud, and off-road conditions.
When it comes to long-distance travel, the Tesla Model Y excels. A single overnight charge empowers it to cover impressive distances of up to 533 kilometers. Even more impressively, rapid charging at supercharger locations can replenish up to 261 kilometers of range in just 15 minutes. Tesla is actively expanding its Supercharger network in Malaysia, ensuring convenient access for all.
Advantages of the Tesla Model Y include:
- Upgraded safety features.
- Fast charging and long driving range.
- Tesla is in progress setting up more supercharging locations in Malaysia.
Drawbacks of the Tesla Model Y encompass:
- The low car body may cause problems when you drive over bumps.
Details of Tesla Model Y:
| Car Type: | Electric car |
|---|---|
| Range : | Performance, Long Range AWD, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Power: | 201 Hp |
| Max. Torque: | 250 Nm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | 455 – 533 km |
| Charging Time: | AC Charging (0 – 100%), 9 hours |
| Engine/Motor Type: | Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) |
| Drivetrain: | Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Colors: | Solid Black, Pearl White Multi-Coat, Midnight Silver Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic and Red Multi-Coat |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | 3.7 – 6.9 s |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 199,000.00 – RM 288,000.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | Basic Vehicle – 4 years/ 80,000km, whichever come first; Battery & Drive Unit – 8 years/ 192,000 km, whichever come first (Performance & Long Range AWD); Basic Vehicle – 4 years/ 80,000km, whichever come first; Battery & Drive Unit – 8 years/ 160,000 km, whichever come first (Rear-Wheel Drive) |
| Service Package: | – |
Click here to find out more.
Toyota Innova Zenix
The all-new Innova Zenix is available in both hybrid electric and conventional engines. The new 2.0L dynamic force gasoline engine enhances fuel efficiency while delivering dynamic performance. Its new hybrid electric engine is designed with cutting-edge hybrid technology, offering improved fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. The 5th generation hybrid system includes an EV mode, electrifying your drive and taking you the distance with the all-new Zenix Hybrid Electric. Experience the new 5th generation hybrid system that provides better fuel efficiency, handling, quietness, and responsive acceleration.
This car comes equipped with the Toyota New Global Architecture, which maximizes your driving experience with technological advancements that seamlessly integrate the driver and the vehicle. The Innova Zenix offers best-in-class safety features, powered by the all-new Toyota Safety Sense 3.0. This advanced safety feature offers a wide variety of functions that assist passengers in avoiding future collisions.
Advantages of the Toyota Innova Zenix include:
- Affordable 7-seaters MPV.
- High fuel efficiency.
- Can enjoy both Hybrid EV Systems while no need to worry about charging points.
- Great warranty coverage.
Drawbacks of the Toyota Innova Zenix encompass:
- No information on time needed for acceleration 0 – 100 km/h.
Details of Toyota Innova Zenix:
| Car Type: | Hybrid (4.6 L/ 100 km) or conventional (6.7 L/ 100 km) |
|---|---|
| Range: | 2.0 HEV, 2.0 V |
| Power: | 6000 – 6600 rpm |
| Max. Torque: | 4400 – 5200 rpm |
| Driving Range (WLTP): | – |
| Charging Time: | – |
| Engine/Motor Type: | 4-cylinder, In-line, 16-valve DOHC, Chain Drive (M20A-FXS / M20A-FKS), Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (Hybrid) |
| Drivetrain: | E-CVT / 10-speed Direct Shift CVT with Sequential Shiftmatic |
| Colors: | Platinum White Pearl Mica, Grey Metallic, Attitude Black Mica, Silver Metallic, Avant-garde Bronze Metallic |
| Acceleration (0-100km/h): | – |
| On-The-Road Price : | Starting from RM 165,000.00 (without insurance) |
| Vehicle Warranty: | 5 years warranty from the date of first registration with unlimited mileage. 8 year unlimited mileage hybrid electric warranty |
| Service Package: | RM 235.00 – RM 605.00 |
Click here to find out more.
In today’s ever-evolving automotive landscape, the demand for new cars spans a wide spectrum, from sleek sedans to versatile 7-seaters, driven by the individual needs of consumers. However, what truly propels us into the future is the transition from conventional vehicles to hybrids and fully electronic cars. This shift is more than just a trend; it’s a fundamental step towards a cleaner, more sustainable tomorrow. The emergence of solar and clean energy sources is shaping the automotive industry’s future, creating a robust EV ecosystem that aligns with global environmental goals.
Malaysia recognizes this pivotal moment and is poised to invest in this green revolution.
Yet, while the advantages of electronic cars are evident in their reduced environmental impact, a key challenge remains – the infrastructure for charging. The lack of charging stations poses a significant hurdle for the growing market, particularly for commercial EVs that traverse long distances or interstates on tight schedules.
However, innovative solutions such as battery swapping are on the horizon. As investment in the EV sector continues to grow, purchase costs are expected to decrease, making these vehicles more affordable and accessible to everyone. Ultimately, the key to success lies in providing sufficient charging infrastructure to support the surging EV market, ensuring that our journey towards a cleaner, greener automotive future is a smooth and well-powered one.
