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  2026 Honda City Hatchback FL - fr RM96k

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  2026 Mazda CX-5 launched in Malaysia

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  2026 Honda City FL in Malaysia, fr RM90k

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• Mazda CX-5 with Google built-in gets support for Gemini AI assistant – available as a free update via Google Play

  In Cars, International News, Mazda / by Gerard Lye / 28 October 2026 1:38 pm

  

  The third-generation Mazda CX-5 now supports Google’s Gemini AI assistant, which will be rolled out as a free update through Google Play to cars of United States, Canadian, European and Japanese specifications. With this, customers will be able to operate certain vehicle functions and access information hands-free by simply speaking naturally with Gemini.

  According to the Japanese carmakers, customers can ask Gemini for places that meet specific criteria, adjust air-conditioning or request for specific media experiences, among other things. One can also have a free-flowing conversation with the assistant via Gemini Live, although that’s currently in beta.

  

  The latest CX-5 is the first Mazda to have Google built-in that sees deeper integration with the car’s hardware unlike mirroring solutions like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. This system not only allows apps to be downloaded directly to the infotainment system and launched natively, but also enables various vehicle functions to be controlled.

  Mazda is one of several brands with Google built-in cars, with others being Polestar, Volvo, Cadillac, GMC, Chevrolet, Renault, Honda, Acura, Nissan, Infiniti, Lincoln, Ford, Buick, Mitsubishi, BYD (international models) and Alpine.

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• CFMoto teases new sports bike ahead of EICMA 2026

  In Bikes, CFMoto, International Bike News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 October 2026 1:33 pm

  

  CFMoto has teased a new fully faired sports motorcycle ahead of its unveiling at EICMA 2026 in Milan, Italy. The Chinese manufacturer has yet to reveal its name, specifications or production plans.

  The teaser shows the bike’s cockpit, clip-on handlebars and windscreen, but does not confirm whether it is a production version of the V4 SR-RR superbike prototype showcased at EICMA last year. The V4 SR-RR uses a 997 cc, 90-degree V-four engine that CFMoto previously said produces more than 213 hp.

  

  A prototype reportedly reached 315.82 km/h during a speed run in China in June 2026. It remains unclear whether the upcoming model will retain the V4 engine or share the prototype’s performance figures.

  A production V4 sports bike would mark a significant step up for CFMoto as it expands beyond its existing range of road, naked and adventure motorcycles into the high-performance superbike segment. CFMoto has also teased a new scooter for the show, with both models expected to be unveiled during EICMA which runs from from November 3 to 8.

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• Government taking legal action against Zetrix AI for failure to settle RM314 million in arrears – Anthony Loke

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 28 October 2026 12:56 pm

  

  The Malaysian government is taking legal action, including a civil suit against Zetrix AI for its failure to fully settle RM314 million in arrears and penalties, reported New Straits Times.

  Zetrix AI, which is under the MYyEG Group, was suspended as a JPJ collection agent on October 5 this year after failing to remit RM314 million government revenue collected between May 19 and September 30.

  Full settlement of all outstanding payments including late transfer penalties was a pre-condition for any extension or further operational consideration, said transport minister Anthony Loke.

  “Revenue collected on its behalf must not be made part of a company’s operating funds. Any delay in handing over the money is classified as a serious breach of the terms of the agreement,” Loke said.

  

  The transport minister said that the transfer of revenue had been delayed for almost five months, from May 19 to October 4, despite having held four engagement sessions and special discussions, and issuing 35 reminder notices to recover the arrears.

  Zetrix AI had submitted a cheque dated September 30 for RM231 million for the settlement of arrears up to August 17, however the cheque could not be cashed, the transport minister said. On October 23, the transport minister said that Zetrix AI had yet to make any payment towards RM314 million in outstanding remittances.

  To prevent future leakages, the road transport department (JPJ) is revamping its MySikap portal and MyJPJ app to reduce reliance on third-party agents, Loke said.

  The ministry of transport is also discussing a proposed mechanism with the ministry of finance and the Accountant-General’s department to channel government revenue directly into government accounts, bypassing third-party accounts, according to the report.

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• Gov’t considering dynamic insurance pricing for e-hailing to lower costs; drive more, pay more – MoT

  In Local News, Public Transport / by Danny Tan / 28 October 2026 12:24 pm

  

  There could be good news on the way for e-hailing drivers. The government is studying dynamic insurance and takaful models that price coverage based on mileage and driver risk profiles, in an effort to reduce escalating vehicle operating costs.

  The transport ministry, in a written reply yesterday to Bakri MP Tan Hong Pin in the Dewan Rakyat, confirmed that a dedicated Inter-Agency Task Force convened by Bank Negara is leading efforts to restructure e-hailing insurance mechanisms and alleviate financial burden on drivers.

  Under the framework being considered, traditional fixed annual premiums could make way for usage-based policies calculated on a per-kilometre basis, alongside individual risk ratings. MoT explained that aligning pricing directly with actual road time and trip volume is intended to create fairer, more responsive coverage tailored to the varying work patterns of gig-economy motorists, reported by Malay Mail.

  The task force is also evaluating the integration of telematics, which will monitor driving habits such as speed, acceleration and braking patterns, to incentivise safer road behaviour and mitigate crash risks.

  The government is exploring deeper data-sharing protocols between e-hailing platform operators and underwriters to improve risk assessment accuracy and streamline accident claims verification, the ministry said.

  MoT reiterated that valid motor insurance is mandatory under Section 90(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, and is separate from the wider social safety protections for the gig sector under the purview of the Human Resources Ministry. No target timeline or expected percentage drop in premiums were shared, though.

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• Japanese automakers to shorten vehicle development times as they look to catch up with Chinese competitors

  In Cars, Honda, International News, Nissan, Toyota / by Anthony Lim / 28 October 2026 12:11 pm

  

  In a bid to catch up with Chinese carmakers and their speed in deploying vehicle models to the market, Japanese automakers are stepping up efforts to shorten their vehicle development times to better respond to competition as well as changing customer demand, Kyodo News reports.

  The change in delivery speed is crucial, given the current landscape. Toyota, Honda, Nissan and other Japanese carmakers typically spend around four to five years developing a new model, more than twice as long as the less than two years taken by Chinese companies.

  For Nissan, the company is aiming to slash development times under its new family-based vehicle development strategy, speeding up the process by designing a common platform for multiple models of the same size.

  

  For example, it plans to shorten the lead time for developing a new SUV model to three years and one month for launch in North America in 2028. It will then use the same platform for the SUV for its derivative models, enabling it to reduce development time by up to 40% to two and a half years.

  The new product strategy will cover 80% of the company’s global sales and is expected to cut the number of part types by 70%. According to Hidemi Sasaki, deputy general manager of Nissan’s product planning division. this reform will ensure the company responds to changes and delivers good cars in a timely manner.

  Meanwhile, Honda, seeking a V-shaped recovery from its first net loss in the last fiscal year, has introduced the “Triple Half” approach designed to halve the development costs, timeframes and workloads from 2025 levels. Making full use of artificial intelligence and other digital technologies, the new initiatives will begin with new model developments the company will start in 2028.

  

  As for Toyota, the world’s largest carmaker by volume is also working to reduce types of parts, depending on customer needs, as fewer parts will improve productivity and speed up new model development work. Under project Area 35, the automaker aims to improve the use of plant floor space by 35%.

  Elsewhere, Suzuki is planning to halve its current development time to around two years, while Mitsubishi aims to shorten the period by 20% to three years, by around 2030. While we can expect to see more models come about from Japanese automakers in quicker fashion, how they will stack up competitively in terms of cost and scale remains to be seen.

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• MotoGP title fight heads to Malaysia with Marquez 10 points ahead of injured Martín

  In Bikes, International Bike News, MotoGP / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 October 2026 12:03 pm

  

  After the cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix, Marc Marquez heads to the Malaysian MotoGP at Sepang this weekend with a 10-point lead in the 2026 Riders’ Championship, leaving injured rival Jorge Martín with a chance to fight for the title. The Australian GP at Phillip Island was called off on Sunday after heavy rain and poor visibility prevented the medical helicopter from operating safely.

  No championship points were awarded for the main race, leaving the standings unchanged following Saturday’s sprint. Marquez won the sprint to move ahead of Martín, who crashed while fighting for the lead and suffered a fracture to his right wrist with the Aprilia rider declared unfit for Sunday’s race.

  Marquez now leads the championship with 365 points, followed by Martín on 355. Marco Bezzecchi sits third on 315 points, 50 behind the Ducati rider, with four rounds remaining after Malaysia. The cancellation proves significant for the title battle.

  

  Had Marquez won Sunday’s race, his advantage over the injured Martín could have grown to 35 points. Instead, the Spaniard heads to Sepang with a narrower lead that could still be overturned over the remaining rounds. Martín’s immediate priority is recovering sufficiently to return to the track.

  His fracture will need to be assessed before he can be cleared to race, and Sepang’s demanding braking zones and tropical heat will present a considerable physical challenge. Bezzecchi also remains mathematically in contention.

  

  The Aprilia rider is 50 points behind Marquez and could capitalise on any difficulties for the championship leaders, making him another rider to watch at Sepang. With the title still undecided, results in Malaysia could prove crucial to the outcome of the championship.

  The Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia runs at Sepang International Circuit from October 30 to November 1. Malaysia is the fourth to last round int he 2026 MotoGP calendar, with remaining races in Qatar and Portugal before the season ender in Valencia, Spain.

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• Chinese carmakers overtake Japanese brands in Europe for first time in quarterly sales with 12.7% market share

  In International News / by Gerard Lye / 28 October 2026 12:02 pm

  

  For the first time over a full quarter, Chinese automakers outsold Japanese brands in Europe, reports Bloomberg. According to market research DataForce, Chinese-branded cars – mostly hybrids – saw registrations double from a year earlier in September to account for 12.7% of total sales in the region.

  By comparison, Japanese manufacturers had a market share of 11.9%, while European brands continue to dominate both for now. Five years ago, Chinese brands accounted for barely 1% of European sales, but brands like BYD and Chery have rapidly estalibshed their positions since then.

  This year’s Paris Motor Show saw around 20 brands in attendance showing off their models and announcing expansion plans for Europe. With fuel prices surging upwards in recent months, many Chinese brands are leaning heavily on electrified models to grab a bigger slice of the pie.

  The European Union (EU) has tried to protect its automotive industry with tariffs on China-made electric vehicles (EVs) but these do not apply to hybrids (including those that can be plugged in), hence the push by Chinese brands.

  Separately, the EU is considering new rules that favour locally made cars when granting subsidies and incentives, including tax benefits for company cars that tie in with the region’s high number of corporate and fleet customers. In light of this, Chinese automakers are setting up shop in Europe.

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• LPT3 to be implemented via public-private partnership, winning bidder to bear full development cost – Nanta

  In Local News / by Jonathan James Tan / 28 October 2026 11:25 am

  

  Malaysian works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has said that the East Coast Expressway Phase 3 (LPT3) will be implemented through privatisation under a public-private partnership (PPP) arrangement via a competitive bidding process or Request for Proposal (RFP), with the successful bidder bearing the full development cost, Bernama reports.

  The proposed alignment spans 122 km from Terengganu’s Kampung Gemuruh to Kelantan’s Tunjong and will complement LPT1 and LPT2. Nanta said the statement of needs has been submitted to the Public Private Partnership Unit (UKAS) for the RFP documents to be prepared before submission to the cabinet for consideration and a decision.

  “The proposal is currently at the RFP document preparation stage,” he said yesterday in the Dewan Rakyat, adding that the government’s current priority is to ensure that the Central Spine Road and Kota Bharu-Kuala Krai Highway (KBKK) projects progress smoothly and are completed on schedule.

  He said the 70.4-kilometre KBKK project is now at 78.8% progress, with the Pasir Hor-Kadok stretch fully completed. The remaining five packages are under construction and are expected to be completed in 2027. Meanwhile, the Central Spine Road’s Kelantan section, comprising 10 sub-packages worth RM3.08 billion from Kuala Krai to Gua Musang, is expected to be fully completed by 2028.

  

  On delays to the Central Spine Road’s Package 3, involving sections 3B and 3C, Nanta said the appointment of a replacement contractor is in the final stage of the procurement process.

  “The letter of acceptance is targeted for issuance by mid-November 2026, subject to finance ministry approval. This will allow construction work to resume and the remaining work to be completed according to the revised schedule,” he said.

  Regarding the 706-km Sabah Pan Borneo Highway, the works minister said four of the 35 work packages have been completed and the remaining 31 are targeted for completion in stages by 2030. Physical progress has reached 89.54% for Phase 1A and 25.53% for Phase 1B.

  For 2027, the works ministry has been allocated RM1.146 billion for operating expenditure (+5.6% year-on-year) and RM9.736 billion for development expenditure (+3% year-on-year).

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• JPJ eBid: JK_J and PSJ number plates up for bidding

  In Local News / by Danny Tan / 28 October 2026 10:45 am

  

  

  JPJ has announced that JK_J and PSJ are the next number plate series to go up for bidding on its online auction platform, JPJ eBid.

  Johor’s latest running number series is ‘JK_J’, and it will open for tender on November 5. The bidding period on JPJeBid is five days, ending 10pm on November 9. As usual, the results will be out the following day. The whole process is online now, as it has been for some time, and bidders will get the good (or bad) news via email.

  Also available on JPJ eBid is the Penang series ‘PSJ’. The bidding period starts on November 2, and will close at 10pm on November 6. Results will be out the day after the auction closes.

  New car coming soon and want a nice number plate for the new ride? Why not DIY and skip the reseller’s markup and runner fees? If you have never bid for a number yourself, check out our step-by-step guide on how to navigate JPJ eBid and the techniques needed to get your preferred number at “retail price”.

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• Ops Luxury: Most seized luxury cars reclaimed by owners within three days after road tax renewal says JPJ

  In Local News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 October 2026 10:24 am

  

  Most luxury car owners whose vehicles were seized for expired road tax in Penang recover them within one to three days after renewing their road tax and paying the relevant compounds, according to the state Road Transport Department (JPJ). Penang JPJ director Zulkifly Ismail said the process depended on whether the vehicles still had valid motor insurance, with longer delays if their policies had expired.

  “Most of them settle everything within one to three days. They renew their road tax, pay the compound and get their cars back,” he said at the Penang JPJ Media Appreciation Night on Friday. Some owners had opted for six-month road tax despite having insurance coverage valid for a full year.

  This allowed them to renew their road tax promptly after their vehicles were seized, provided their insurance remained valid. However, motorists whose insurance had also expired faced a longer process, as they had to appear before a magistrate and be sentenced for the offences.

  

  “The delay is usually because they have to wait for their cases to be brought before the court. It depends on when they can get a court date,” Zulkifly said. The compounds payable by owners with valid insurance also depended on when they settled their offences.

  As reported by paultan.org in May, Penang JPJ seized 51 luxury vehicles worth approximately RM14 million under Ops Luxury between January 1 and May 21. The vehicles had accumulated around RM175,000 in unpaid road tax.

  

  Some had been driven for years without valid road tax, including a BMW whose road tax had expired in 2020 and a Jaguar that had been without valid road tax since 2021. A Ford Mustang with an annual road tax bill of RM10,900 had not been renewed since 2022. JPJ issued 137 notices and took enforcement action for various offences during the operation.

  While luxury car owners can often reclaim their vehicles within days by settling their offences, the process can take considerably longer for motorcycles seized during operations targeting foreign workers riding without valid licences. Zulkifly said owners of these motorcycles could wait up to three months to recover their vehicles, as the cases also had to be brought before a magistrate.

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• No immediate plans to amend laws on overloaded heavy vehicles; existing provisions sufficient – Anthony Loke

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 28 October 2026 10:20 am

  

  The ministry of transport has no immediate plans to amend laws on overloaded heavy vehicles as existing provisions are sufficient to address the offence, reported New Straits Times.

  The ministry will focus on firm and consistent enforcement, including taking action against repeat offenders to protect road users and to reduce road damage, said transport minister Anthony Loke.

  The land public transport agency (APAD) had strengthened its punitive action matrix for operator offences, which enables it to suspend or revoke vehicle permits and operator licences based on how severe and how often the offences are, the transport minister said.

  

  “Action against overloading covers drivers or vehicle owners, depending on the offence committed, as well as operators who breach licence conditions. For licensed operators, the Land Public Transport Act allows conditions to be imposed so that the weight of goods vehicles does not exceed the maximum limit,” he said.

  Operators who breach the conditions can be fined between RM1,000 and RM500,000, be sentenced to jail for up to two years, or both, upon conviction, and vehicles suspected of involvement in such offences could also be seized under the Land Public Transport Act, said the transport minister.

  “Forfeiture is subject to a court order under the same section. Administrative action on vehicle permits or operator licences can also be taken based on the offence and the company’s record of violations,” Loke said.

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• Omoda | Jaecoo Malaysia strengthens aftersales excellence through National Technical Skills Competition

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 28 October 2026 10:20 am

  

  Skills and experience in a technical vocation are often tucked away behind the scenes, with the fruits of one’s labour typically manifesting themselves in a functioning machine well beyond the confines of a workshop.

  With a competition, comes the opportunity for personnel to showcase their technical prowess, and in the bigger picture this is also part of the broader effort by Omoda | Jaecoo Malaysia towards improving aftersales service and to build stronger customer trust and confidence.

  Enter the Omoda | Jaecoo Technical Skills Competition 2026, which was held at Omoda | Jaecoo Johor, Kulai Supernova Sdn Bhd, where technicians from authorised Omoda | Jaecoo dealerships in Malaysia took part.

  Here, the Omoda | Jaecoo Technical Skills Competition 2026 involved a total of 210 technicians from authorised Omoda | Jaecoo dealerships across Malaysia, of which 30 were selected to advance to the semi-finals. Based on their overall scores and competency, the top 10 technicians were selected to advance to the final round of the competition.

  The 10 finalists were expected to demonstrate both their technical knowledge and their practical skills in a real workshop environment during the final round.

  

  This was comprised of a theory test that covered product knowledge, diagnostics and service processes, while a practical assessment covered hands-on tasks at designated work bays, which focused on real-world troubleshooting, repair quality and efficiency.

  The panel of judges for the competition consisted of members of the Omoda | Jaecoo Malaysia technical and training team, which included the technical support team and master trainers.

  Highly experienced in vehicle diagnostics, repair standards and technical training, the role of these judges was to evaluate each participant on key criteria such as accuracy, diagnostic process, repair quality, and time management, thus ensuring fair and professional assessment throughout the competition.

  The best performers have been amply rewarded; first three places received a cash prize, a trophy and a certificate, with fourth- and fifth-placed contestants having received a cash prize and a certificate, while participants placed sixth through to 10th each received a participation certificate.

  The Omoda | Jaecoo Technical Skills Competition 2026 concluded with an outstanding display of technical expertise, precision, and professionalism from participants across the dealer network.

  

  After a highly competitive Final Round, Wong Sau Seng from Gagner Auto Sdn Bhd (Plentong) emerged as the champion, demonstrating exceptional technical knowledge and practical skills throughout the competition. Muhammad Mukhriz Bin Abd Rahim from Taycn Kredit Sdn Bhd secured second place, while Mohamad Kharmafitri Bin Mohd Said from AJ Premium Motor Sdn Bhd achieved third place.

  Their achievements reflect not only their individual dedication and technical excellence but also the strong commitment of their respective dealerships towards continuous skills development and service excellence. The competition serves as an important platform to recognize outstanding technical talent and further strengthen the capabilities of Omoda | Jaecoo aftersales dealer network.

  In addition to these, the winner of the Omoda | Jaecoo Technical Skills Competition 2026 will represent Malaysia at the Omoda | Jaecoo World Skills Competition in China this November, which will be a memorable milestone for local technical talent.

  Through initiatives like this, Omoda | Jaecoo Malaysia continues to strengthen its aftersales capabilities by developing skilled technicians and expanding its service support through a nationwide network of 54 service centres across Malaysia, with the aim of delivering better service quality and a more reliable ownership experience for customers.

  Find out more about Omoda | Jaecoo in Malaysia, here.

   

• Mazda CX-70 discontinued in the US due to poor demand – CX-90 gets new 2-row variant to serve as replacement

  In Cars, International News, Mazda / by Gerard Lye / 28 October 2026 10:20 am

  

  Mazda CX-90

  Mazda has announced that the CX-70 will be discontinued in the United States for the 2027 model year, with a new two-row variant of the CX-90 being its replacement. This comes around two years after the CX-70 first went on sale there.

  While their names suggest different size classes, both the CX-70 and CX-90 are essentially the same SUV with identical exterior dimensions and wheelbases. The figures are a length of 5,121 mm, a width of 1,971 mm, a height of 1,745 mm and a wheelbase of 3,119 mm. The only difference is that the CX-70 has two rows of seats while the CX-90 only came with three rows previously.

  Combing the history books, the CX-90 was the first to debut in February 2023 and went on sale for the 2024 model year. Meanwhile, the CX-70 was revealed in January 2024, with deliveries commencing for the 2025 model year.

  

  Mazda CX-70

  Data shows the CX-90 outsold the CX-70 by a significant margin in 2025, with the current year-to-date figures for 2026 being no different. On the latter, 34,999 units of the CX-90 were sold from January to September this year compared to just 9,686 units for the CX-70.

  The CX-90 in the US is offered with two powertrains, including a 3.3 litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine with mild hybrid technology as well as a plug-in hybrid system based around a 2.5 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four petrol mill. For the coming model year, the SUV gets four new exterior paint choices, along with updated rear suspension bushings and a revised rear suspension crossmember for better passenger comfort and ride quality.

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• RM270,000 Budi Madani subsidy abuse, Penang petrol station barred from selling subsidised fuel

  In Local News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 28 October 2026 9:47 am

  

  The government has barred a petrol station in Sungai Buaya, Nibong Tebal, Penang, from selling subsidised RON 95 petrol and diesel under the Budi Madani programme. This occurred after uncovering suspected subsidy abuse involving more than RM270,000.

  The Finance Ministry said its investigations, prompted by police reports from affected recipients, uncovered more than 1,000 manual-bypass transactions involving over 100,000 litres of petrol. The suspected abuse allegedly involved customers’ MyKad details being used without their knowledge to obtain subsidised fuel.

  The ministry did not identify the petrol station but said it had suspended the operator’s eligibility to sell subsidised RON 95 and diesel under the programme. It is also withholding subsidy payments amounting to more than RM270,000, with the final sum subject to further adjustments, reports The Malay Mail.

  Nine individuals, including the station owner and family members, have been blocked from using Budi Madani subsidies pending further action. The ministry is reviewing transaction records involving other individuals suspected of being linked to the case and said action would be taken against those found to have abused the subsidy.

  “Any subsidy misuse is a betrayal of the goal of targeting subsidies, even more so while the conflict in West Asia continues to disrupt global energy supply and pressure fuel prices,” the ministry said in a statement. It added that the government would not hesitate to take firm action against petrol stations or consumers found to have breached Budi Madani guidelines.

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• Why trust makes all the difference during a car service at PETRONAS AutoExpert

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 28 October 2026 9:40 am

  

  For many Malaysians, sending a car in for a service can feel like a guessing game. What does the car need? What kind of engine oil is most suitable? Is the workshop properly equipped? Can the mechanics be trusted? These are all questions we’ve asked ourselves more often than not, and they’re all very valid concerns. Fortunately, finding a workshop you can trust doesn’t have to be complicated.

  This is where PETRONAS AutoExpert comes in. Launched in 2019, the nationwide workshop network is a one-stop solution covering servicing, diagnostics, repairs and genuine lubricants under one roof, with the ethos that customers should leave with greater confidence that their vehicle has received the care and service it requires from trained mechanics who understand what their engine needs.

  PETRONAS AutoExpert supports motorists with peace of mind through transparent servicing experience. Mechanics use advanced diagnostic tools and technology to thoroughly and accurately assess vehicle needs and make clear recommendations. So, you can say goodbye to guesswork and make informed decisions with confidence.

  But a quality servicing experience goes beyond technical expertise alone. Having access to the right lubricant is equally important, especially as modern vehicles become more advanced and require specific formulations.

  

  Think of lubricants as the fluid that helps keep our joints moving smoothly. Just as joint fluid helps reduce friction and wear as we move, engine lubricant helps reduce friction, manage heat and protect against wear. Different engines also have different operating demands, which is why hybrid and turbocharged engines require lubricants formulated to meet their specific needs.

  PETRONAS Syntium lubricants, used by PETRONAS AutoExpert workshops nationwide, are blended and manufactured in Malaysia at the Melaka Lubricant Blending Plant, while being developed using PETRONAS’ global lubricant technology and expertise. This helps support consistent and dependable product availability nationwide, allowing mechanics to complete servicing efficiently.

  Moreover, the PETRONAS Syntium range of lubricants has been refreshed to meet the evolving needs of today’s engines, with Supreme, Prime, GLV2 and Hybrid variants, all of which are certified to the highest international level with API SQ and ILSAC-GF7.

  PETRONAS Syntium Supreme features CoolTech+ technology for up to 13% better fuel efficiency, while PETRONAS Syntium Prime offers reliable, long-lasting engine defence for everyday vehicles.

  

  Meanwhile, PETRONAS Syntium GLV2 offers better fuel efficiency for Japanese engines, while PETRONAS Syntium Hybrid is engineered for stop-start cycles and lower hybrid operating temperatures, thanks to CoolTech-H technology.

  PETRONAS Syntium lubricants can be found at PETRONAS AutoExpert workshops, Kedai Mesra at PETRONAS stations and online through PETRONAS Shop via its website, Setel App, Shopee and TikTok.

  End your worries and uncertainties today by treating your car to a PETRONAS AutoExpert service. See for yourself how trained professionals work together with dependable lubricant stock levels to give you greater peace of mind.

  PETRONAS AutoExpert brings together trained mechanics, the right tools and dependable access to PETRONAS Syntium lubricants, making it easier to give today’s engines the care they need.

   

• Yangwang Altior teased – BYD’s 5.5-metre Rolls-Royce rival gets its name, UAE debut in November

  In Cars, International News, Yangwang / by Harvinder Sidhu / 27 October 2026 10:19 pm

  

  BYD’s luxury brand Yangwang has officially named its upcoming flagship sedan, which until now was known by its internal codename HU. It will be called the Yangwang Altior in international markets and Dingyao (鼎曜) in China, and the company has released the first official teaser image to go with the announcement.

  The poster, posted on Yangwang’s official Weibo account, shows the car in profile with a bronze silk sheet draped over its rear half. You can make out the rear-hinged coach doors, a roof-mounted lidar sensor and a front end that follows the “ding” design of the U8 SUV, which takes its cue from an ancient Chinese bronze cauldron. Yangwang calls it an “ultra-luxury executive flagship sedan”.

  Yangwang general manager Hu Xiaoqing said “ding” stands for stability and the ability to carry weight, as well as a belief in constant creation that eventually produces something great. “Yao” means brilliance, or the light of distant stars. Altior comes from the Latin word for “higher”, which ties in with the Yangwang name, meaning “to look up”. Hu has also said the front end alone went through more than 100 design proposals.

  

  

  The Altior will make its world debut in the UAE in early November. Yangwang is already sold in the UAE through local distributor Al-Futtaim, and the U8 recently joined the Dubai Police luxury patrol fleet.

  Technical details have not been announced. The sedan is said to be around 5.5 metres long, and Autohome previously reported that it will be BYD’s first car with a solid-state battery, as we covered when camouflaged images of the car were shared in September.

  The Altior will take on the likes of the Rolls-Royce Ghost, Mercedes-Maybach S-Class and the Maextro S800 from Huawei and JAC, and is tipped to cost around two million yuan (about RM1.2 million) in China.

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• ACE 2026: See the BMW Motorrad R 1300 GS ASA, F 450 GS ERC and R 1300 RT at SCCC, October 31-November 1

  ADVERTORIAL / by Mick Chan / 27 October 2026 6:58 pm

  

  It’s happening this weekend! The paultan.org Auto Car Expo (ACE), powered by Petronas Primax, is taking place from October 31 to November 1 at the Setia City Convention Centre (SCCC), and this is where you will get to take advantage of great deals on a wide variety of vehicles.

  BMW Motorrad will be at the latest edition of the sales-driven expo with a prominent showing of two-wheeled fare, featuring the new BMW Motorrad R 1300 GS with Automated Shift Assistant (ASA), the F 450 GS with Easy Ride Clutch (ERC) and the R 1300 RT. More than just static displays, BMW Motorrad will be at ACE 2026 with test ride units available for your sampling, too, including the F 450 GS, R 1300 GS and the C 400 GT.

  Aiding in making the path to your next BMW Motorrad more accessible is special BMW Credit financing. The BMW R 1300 GS with Adaptive Height Control (AHC) of the 2026 year of manufacture is offered with financing at a flat rate of 2.99% per annum, when you purchase with Service Inclusive for five years or 50,000 km, plus a two-year warranty extension.

  You won’t be left out of the financing benefits should you choose to look beyond the latest iteration of the iconic Gelande-Strasse. All other BMW Motorrad models from the 2026 year of manufacture are offered with financing at a flat rate of 3.30% per annum when purchased with Service Inclusive for five years or 50,000 km, plus a two-year warranty extension.

  There’s more. From now until December 31, 2026, BMW Financial Services financing rates apply to qualifying loans of RM30,000 and above, at financing tenures from three to seven years; these will be subject to approval and campaign terms and conditions.

  

  Along with BMW Motorrad, ACE 2026 will also see the attendance of Audi, BMW, Chery, Dongfeng, GWM, Hyundai, iCaur, Jetour, Leapmotor, Lotus, Mazda, MINI, Mitsubishi, Omoda | Jaecoo, Perodua, Proton, Proton eMas, smart, Volkswagen and Zeekr, among others. Co-sponsors Jacar and Carro will showcase their own products and services. TNB Electron is also a co-sponsor.

  In addition to the promotions from the participating brands, there are RM3,000 worth of vouchers for the first 200 confirmed bookings at the show from us, here at paultan.org.

  Each confirmed booking also enters you into a lucky draw with prizes worth RM57,000, which includes a grand prize holiday package worth RM10,000, three sets of Llumar window tint by Jacar worth RM4,000 each, five smartphones worth RM3,000 each and five DK Schweizer Prestige Leather Upholstery upgrades worth RM4,000 each.

  Goodie bags will also be up for grabs, from V-Kool, Harman Kardon, DK Schweizer, Dodo, The Carage and Kuzig Glanz Detailing.

  All these deals await at ACE 2026, powered by Petronas Primax, taking place at the Setia City Convention Centre (SCCC) from October 31 to November 1, and entry is free of charge. Find out more from the ACE 2026 microsite, here.

  *Terms and conditions apply.

   

• Gov’t allocating RM250m to upgrade roads in Bukit Jalil – Bandar Madani will be built in phases, over 15 years

  In Local News / by Danny Tan / 27 October 2026 6:31 pm

  

  Bukit Jalil residents – who have been against the 17,000-unit Bandar Madani project in their neighbourhood – must have been disappointed to hear the project being touted by PM Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the recent Budget 2027, and the swift opening of registration for units in the future township.

  Well, unfortunately for those concerned, it seems like there’s no stopping Bandar Madani Bukit Jalil. Today, housing and local government minister Nga Kor Ming told parliament that the project will be implemented in phases over a 15-year period

  However, there’s a consolation for current residents – the government is currently in the process of allocating RM250 million to upgrade roads and alleviate traffic congestion in the area. Nga said that the allocation will be used to upgrade existing roads, construct new four-lane roads, and build two bridges to improve traffic flow. We’ll need to wait for more details on the what and where.

  

  The Teluk Intan MP said that there will be a thorough Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Social Impact Assessment (SIA), and the project has secured a development order from DBKL following a technical engagement process with relevant agencies, including PLANMalaysia, health and education ministries, JKR and MBSJ.

  “This project is specifically designed to ensure that the people not only own a home but also enjoy a high quality of life,” he told Dewan Rakyat, explaining that Bukit Jalil was chosen due to its strategic location and excellent connectivity to public infrastructure.

  Many know this, which is why BJ has grown to be one of the property hotspots in the Klang Valley – it went from NA to turbo with the announcement of Pavilion Bukit Jalil a decade ago and condo prices (especially those around the park) have reached levels previously seen only in KL city centre.

  Aside from housing, the ’15-minute walkable city’ will have a ‘vertical school’ integrating preschool, primary, and secondary education within a single complex; a health clinic; and a Madani Hub with space for hawkers, a police kiosk, multipurpose hall, community service areas, surau, transport facilities and a bus stop.

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• ACE 2026: Go nostalgic with the iCaur V23 Retro Edition – get RM3k in vouchers, win up to RM57k worth of prizes

  ADVERTORIAL / by Anthony Lim / 27 October 2026 6:06 pm

  

  The paultan.org Auto Car Expo (ACE), powered by Petronas Primax, is happening soon. Set to take place this October 31 to November 1 at the Setia City Convention Centre (SCCC), ACE 2026 promises plenty of amazing deals on a wide range of vehicles, all under one roof.

  iCaur is one of the companies taking part in the event, and the brand will have its stylish all-electric V23 on show. Now locally assembled, the V23 is presently available in its Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (iWD) form. The great news is that the CKD model retains all the specs of the CBU fully-imported version, without any change in price.

  With 211 PS (155 kW) and 292 Nm available from its dual motors, it’ll do the 0-100 km/h run in 7.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 140 km/h. An 81.76 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery delivers an NEDC-rated range of 430 km, and it can be topped up from 20 to 80% SoC in 42 minutes with 104 kW of DC fast charging power.

  Also on display at ACE 2026 will be the V23 Retro Edition, which adds on a styling kit to give the SUV an even more unique look. The package dresses up the already eye-catching V23 with a chrome front grille and trim strip, fender panels, front and rear chrome bumpers, front and rear chrome wheel arches and side steps, along with a choice of orange or green exterior panel wrapping, so be sure to come check out this novel offering.

  

  In addition to iCaur, ACE 2026 will also feature brands such as Audi, BMW, BMW Motorrad, Chery, Dongfeng, GWM, Hyundai, Jetour, Leapmotor, Lotus, Mazda, MINI, Mitsubishi, Omoda | Jaecoo, Perodua, Proton, Proton eMas, smart, Volkswagen and Zeekr. Co-sponsors Jacar and Carro will showcase their own products and services. TNB Electron is also a co-sponsor.

  Purchasing a car at ACE 2026 brings with it extra benefits beyond just the promotions offered by individual brands, because the first 200 confirmed bookings will also enjoy RM3,000 worth of vouchers from us. Each confirmed booking also enters you into a lucky draw, with prizes worth RM57,000 up for grabs.

  These include a grand prize holiday package worth RM10,000, three sets of Llumar window tint by Jacar worth RM4,000 each, five smartphones worth RM3,000 each and five DK Schweizer Prestige Leather Upholstery upgrades worth RM4,000 each. There will also be goodie bags, courtesy of V-Kool, Harman Kardon, DK Schweizer, Dodo, The Carage and Kuzig Glanz Detailing.

  So, if you’ve been waiting to buy a new car, ACE 2026 is where you’ll find the best deals, so make a beeline for the SCCC this October 31 to November 1. Find out more details at the ACE 2026 microsite. See you there!

   

• Only 33 JPJ-approved workshops for speed limiter retrofits on over 200,000 commercial vehicles, says Loke

  In Local News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 27 October 2026 6:04 pm

  

  Only 33 workshops nationwide have been approved to retrofit speed limitation devices (SLDs) on commercial vehicles, prompting the Transport Ministry to postpone full enforcement of the requirement. Transport Minister Anthony Loke said in Parliament the number of approved workshops was insufficient to handle the more than 200,000 vehicles requiring retrofits, with the ministry giving the industry more time to comply.

  “As of Monday (Oct 26), only 33 SLD retrofit suppliers nationwide have been approved by the Road Transport Department (JPJ), and this number is clearly insufficient,” he said during the Dewan Rakyat question-and-answer session on Tuesday (Oct 27), responding to a supplementary question from Tan Kar Hing (PH-Gopeng). The ministry announced on June 30 that full enforcement, originally scheduled to begin on July 1, would be postponed.

  

  Loke stressed the decision did not mean the requirement had been cancelled or waived. The ministry is also finalising a dedicated legal framework covering SLD installation, verification and enforcement, and a new enforcement date will be announced once these matters have been settled.

  The requirement was introduced in phases from Oct 1, 2025, for designated categories of commercial vehicles as part of efforts to curb speeding and reduce road accidents. As of Oct 26, JPJ had recorded 106,651 verified SLD installations among 207,083 active vehicles manufactured from 2015 onwards, representing a compliance rate of 51.5%.

  

  Compliance was significantly lower among older vehicles requiring retrofits. Only 34,514 out of 202,861 vehicles manufactured before 2015 had recorded SLD installations, equivalent to 17%. Loke said newer vehicles faced fewer installation challenges because SLDs were already required under the vehicle type approval process. However, the actual compliance rate still needed to be assessed.

  Older vehicles present greater difficulties, as some may not be compatible with SLDs, while original equipment manufacturers may be unable to provide the necessary technical support for retrofitting, said a The Star report. The ministry’s decision to delay full enforcement is intended to give vehicle operators and the industry more time to complete installations while addressing the limited availability of approved retrofit workshops.

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