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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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  Proton S70 MC2 NA – CVT, RM57k-RM60k

Latest Stories

• ACE 2026: Discount of up to RM2,000 with Jacar – Llumar tint from RM999, Pecca leather seats fr RM1,699

  ADVERTORIAL / by Gerard Lye / 19 October 2026 6:24 pm

  

  The paultan.org Auto Car Expo (ACE), powered by Petronas Primax, returns this year to the Setia City Convention Centre from October 31 to November 1. As with previous editions, ACE is where you can find great automotive deals beyond just purchasing a new ride.

  If you’re looking to rejuvenate your car, co-sponsor Jacar will be at ACE 2026 and is offering discounts up to RM2,000 as part of its year-end bonanza. With over a quarter of a century of experience in making leather interiors, the Kepong-based, Bursa-listed automotive upholstery specialist is more than capable to fulfil your desires.

  Pecca leather seats need to experienced first-hand to be appreciated, and you can do just that at the Jacar booth at ACE 2026. Once you’re convinced, take advantage of the event promotion where you can get Pecca leather seats from just RM1,699 (usually RM3,000).

  Jacar also offers window tinting services using quality Llumar tint, which are also being offered from just RM999 for the Diamond 4 (usually RM3,000+) or from RM1,599 for the Prestige Lite (usually RM4,000). More budget-conscious customers can look forward to a nano-ceramic standard tint from just RM599.

  In addition to these promos, Jacar also offers a membership programme where you can earn cashback. You’ll also be able to mix and match different packages that are tailored for your car from RM1,099 (usually RM3,000) and there’s even a spin and win contest with prizes worth up to RM30,000.

  

  If that isn’t enough, booking a car at ACE 2026 will put you in the running to win a Llumar window tint set worth RM4,000 from Jacar – there will be three winners. There are further benefits when you book a car at ACE 2026, as the first 200 confirmed bookings will enjoy RM3,000 worth of vouchers on us. Each confirmed booking also enters you into a lucky draw with prizes worth RM57,000.

  That 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. Also up for grabs are goodie bags courtesy of V-Kool, Harman Kardon, DK Schweizer, Dodo, The Carage and Kuzig Glanz Detailing.

  Of course, ACE 2026 will also be home a wide range of brands with plenty of cars to check out. The attendance list includes Audi, BMW, BMW Motorrad, Chery, Dongfeng, GWM, Hyundai, iCaur, Jetour, Leapmotor, Lotus, Mazda, MINI, Mitsubishi, Omoda | Jaecoo, Perodua, Proton, Proton eMas, smart, Volkswagen and Zeekr, among others. Co-sponsor Carro will also be there showcasing their own products and services, while TNB Electron is also on board as a co-sponsor.

  So, if you’re looking to upgrade your car’s interior, which is where you spend most of your time, Jacar has got you covered at ACE 2026, which is also where you can check out some new cars as well. Once again, ACE 2026 takes place at SCCC from October 31 to November 1. Find out more at the ACE 2026 microsite. We’ll see you there!

   

• KL police operation sees 111 motorcycles seized, 945 summonses issued

  In Bikes, Local Bike News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 19 October 2026 6:17 pm

  

  A joint enforcement operation in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, saw 111 motorcycles seized and 945 traffic summonses issued as police, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK) stepped up action against road hooliganism. The operation, dubbed Op Samseng Jalanan, was conducted by the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) from 3 am to 7 am on Sunday, October 18.

  Involving 117 officers and personnel from the three agencies, a total of 1,635 motorcycles were inspected during the four-hour operation, with the JSPT Kuala Lumpur issuing 257 of the 945 summonses. The remaining summonses were issued under the overall operation, although the breakdown by agency was not specified.

  JPJ Kuala Lumpur also issued 387 notices for various offences, while 111 motorcycles were seized for further action. One individual was arrested for investigation under Section 29(1) of the Minor Offences Act 1955 and Section 108 of the Road Transport Act 1987, according to the police.

  

  Meanwhile, the AADK conducted urine screening tests on 14 individuals, with all 14 returning negative results. The operation was attended by Kuala Lumpur JSPT chief ACP Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa and deputy chief Supt Suffian Abdullah.

  The three agencies said the integrated operation formed part of ongoing efforts to curb road hooliganism, improve compliance with traffic laws and protect the safety of other road users. Kuala Lumpur JSPT added that enforcement operations would continue to be intensified to deter road offences that could endanger the public.

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• 2026 MotoGP: Martin leads Marquez by two points

  In Bikes, International Bike News, MotoGP / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 19 October 2026 5:35 pm

  

  Setting up a title showdown with five rounds remaining in the season, Jorge Martin leads Marc Marquez by just two points in the 2026 MotoGP World Championship standings. The Aprilia Racing rider’s narrow advantage matches the closest championship gap after 17 rounds since 2022, when Fabio Quartararo led Francesco Bagnaia by two points following the Thai GP.

  Martin is chasing a second MotoGP world title, having become champion for the first time in 2024. Riding for Pramac Racing on a Ducati that season, the Spaniard secured the title at the final round in Barcelona, finishing ahead of factory Ducati rider Bagnaia in the standings.

  

  His triumph made him the first rider from an independent team to win the MotoGP premier-class championship in the modern era. Martin and Marquez now face another tight battle, with the championship entering its decisive phase at the Australian GP at Phillip Island before heading to Malaysia, Qatar, Portugal and Valencia.

  Martin has recorded nine podium finishes and four pole positions this season, including victory at the French GP, to establish himself as a leading contender for the championship. Marquez, meanwhile, has mounted a remarkable comeback since returning from injury at the Italian GP.

  

  The Ducati Lenovo Team rider has claimed six victories and three pole positions, cutting what was once a 102-point deficit to Martin to just two points. A championship victory for Marquez would represent the biggest comeback in MotoGP history, surpassing the previous benchmark set by Bagnaia in 2022.

  Bagnaia at that time overcame a 91-point deficit after the German GP that year before going on to secure the championship, demonstrating how quickly the standings can change over the course of a season. With five rounds left, Martin and Marquez have little room for error as the battle moves to Phillip Island, followed by the Malaysian GP at Sepang.

  

  The remaining races will then take the field to Qatar before the European leg concludes with the Portuguese GP and the season finale at Valencia. With only two points separating the championship leader from his closest rival, every race and sprint could prove decisive in determining the 2026 MotoGP world champion.

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• Proton exported 7,370 cars in first nine months of 2026, exceeding 2025 full-year export volume of 6,000 units

  In Local News, Proton / by Mick Chan / 19 October 2026 3:01 pm

  

  Proton has announced its export figures for the first nine months of 2026, during which it has exported a total of 7,370 units comprised of both Proton and Geely-branded vehicles.

  This figure exceeds the 6,000-unit figure for the full year of 2025 recorded for the export of vehicles from the Tanjong Malim plant, and Geely export vehicles have contributed to the bulk of this increase, according to Proton.

  Proton’s export volume for this year had in fact breached the 6,000-unit mark earlier, with export sales reaching 6,059 units in August when Proton exported 2,477 units that month, the highest monthly export figure since January 2011, according to the company.

  Also part of the carmaker’s export plans is the 2026 Geely Okavango, which is being assembled at Proton’s Tanjong Malim plant for export. Might we see a facelifted Proton X90 for Malaysia soon?

  

  The carmaker’s export volume thus far comes after it revealed its sales figures for the month of September 2026 when it sold 19,465 units, which brought its year-to-date tally to 160,886 units as of earlier this month, surpassing its 2025 full-year sales volume of 157,976 units with the final quarter of the year still to go.

  Leading the volume contribution for the carmaker is the Saga, which saw 8,701 units delivered in September for a total of 68,237 units delivered year-to-date as of earlier this month, representing a 34.5% gain over last year.

  Topping the B-segment SUV sales chart is the X50 with 1,995 units sold in September and 20,163 units sold in the year to date, while the X90 had 430 units delivered last month for 3,250 units in the year to date, with the three-row SUV also exceeding its own 2025 full-year sales performance.

  For the Proton eMas line-up, comprised of the eMas 5, eMas 7 and eMas 7 PHEV, the brand’s range of BEV and PHEV models surpassed the 40,000-unit mark in sales, 21 months since the eMas 7 was launched in December 2024.

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• 2026 Geely Okavango confirmed to be built at Tanjong Malim for export – Proton X90 facelift coming soon?

  In Cars, Geely, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan James Tan / 19 October 2026 2:55 pm

  

  Remember when we saw the 2026 Geely Okavango with the Proton logo on the windscreen at July’s Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS)? Well, it’s now official, because the above photo is among those accompanying Proton’s latest release.

  “The Geely Okavango is another model produced by Proton at Tanjong Malim and shares many similarities with the company’s own Proton X90,” goes the caption. Indeed, Tanjong Malim is currently the only plant making this car in right-hand drive. So are we getting an X90 facelift soon?

  

  

  

  Don’t know about you, but I find this new face (first seen on the China-market Haoyue L facelift in November 2025) a lot easier on the eye, which could help things for what is currently the slowest-selling Proton.

  The unit we saw in Indonesia did not have the latest Okavango’s minimalist cabin – instead, the dashboard is similar to our current X90‘s, and so are the wheels (Okavango FL gets new alloys). It also had ADAS, which was controversially removed in March with the MC – let’s hope it makes a comeback. What do you think of the bolder new face and rear end?

  2026 Geely Okavango at GIIAS

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  China-market 2026 Geely Haoyue L facelift

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  Current Proton X90 Prime X MC

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• Sept 2026 Malaysian vehicle sales declined 2.5% – MAA

  In Local News, MAA Vehicle Sales Data / by Gerard Lye / 19 October 2026 1:03 pm

  

  The Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) has released vehicle sales data for the month of September 2026, with 69,609 units recorded for the month. This represents a decline of 1,819 units, or 2.5%, from the 71,428 units reported for August 2026.

  According to the association, the drop can be attributed to consumers adopting a wait-and-see approach ahead of the Budget 2027 announcement on October 9. It also predicted that sales should pick up for this month due to year-end promotions being offered by companies.

  Looking at the year-to-date (YTD) total, the first nine months of 2026 saw vehicle sales hit 602,633 units, a 4% increase from 579,336 units recorded during the same period last year. The YTD tally for passenger vehicles specifically saw an increase in sales (5%), while commercial vehicles dipped considerably (-13%).

  Over on the production side of things, 64,482 vehicles were produced in September 2026, which is slightly less than the 64,549 units recorded for the August. However, the September 2026 production figure is 10% more than the same month last year. In terms of YTD numbers, production from January to September this year reached 562,207 units, which is 2% more than the 555,129 units recorded in 2025.

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• 2026 Honda City Hatchback facelift launched in Malaysia – S, E variants cut; V, RS petrol, RS hybrid at RM96k-113k

  In Cars, Honda, Local Car Launches, Local News / by Jonathan James Tan / 19 October 2026 12:04 pm

  

  The 2026 Honda City Hatchback facelift has been launched in Malaysia – RM95,900 for the V, RM100,900 for the petrol RS and RM112,900 for the e:HEV (hybrid) RS, OTR before insurance. Yup, just three variants here – the facelifted City sedan dropped the base S but this drops the E as well. Variant-to-variant, the hatchback is RM1k dearer than the sedan.

  You get an eight-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, a 10-year unlimited mileage hybrid battery and component warranty for the e:HEV, five times’ free labour service within five years/100,000 km, a RM4,000 cash reward upon registration, a RM2,000 rebate if you trade in your Honda through the Honda Certified Used Car programme and a RM1,000 rebate if you’re trading in any car brand.

  Like the September-launched facelifted City sedan, this is the second facelift for the City Hatchback, which was first facelifted in 2024 after its late-2021 debut. Over 51,000 units have been sold in Malaysia to date.

  Like the 2026 City sedan, this guy introduces a new face and some minor cosmetic exterior changes as well as a few interior upgrades. The hatch gets the same sharper front end as the sedan, including slimmer bi-LED projector headlamps and a new front bumper.

  

  The rear section features a new design for the diffuser, and the five-door also gets the updated wheel designs as per the sedan, including the new 16-inch two-tone alloy wheels in Berlina Black with a dark machined finish.

  The cabin also receives the same upgrades seen on the City facelift. Revisions include a larger 10-inch Display Audio infotainment touch-screen and a new, textured 3D silver finish (with a red accent line) for the dashboard trim, complete with ambient lighting, along with a new seat upholstery design.

  Other new bits include auto-folding side mirrors, an auto-dimming rear view mirror and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, the latter working with the existing LaneWatch camera to now provide alerts to the driver on both sides. There’s also a 360-degree camera (RS only) which has been updated with multi-view and moving object detection.

  As before, the hatchback continues to prioritise functionality and comfort with its signature Ultra Seats (rear seat bases can be folded up), with four versatile configurations allowing owners to optimise cabin space according to their preferences and needs.

  

  

  

  No changes to the powertrains and outputs. The petrol versions feature the familiar L15Z 1.5 litre DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder, offering the same 121 PS at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm at 4,300 rpm, paired with an Earth Dreams CVT.

  Likewise, the i-MMD system on the e:HEV hybrid. The system consists of a primary electric traction motor with 109 PS and 253 Nm providing drive through a single-speed transmission, with an Atkinson-cycle version of the 1.5 litre mill acting as a generator to recharge the battery. The engine, which has 98 PS from 5,600 to 6,400 rpm and 127 Nm between 4,500 and 5,000 rpm, can also clutch in to provide mechanical drive at higher speeds.

  Colours mirror the City sedan – Blazing Red Pearl (+RM400), Platinum White Pearl (+RM400), Meteoroid Gray Metallic and Stellar Diamond Pearl (this colour is not available on the hybrid).

  Accessories mirror the City sedan’s too – here the Modulo RS bodykit (for RS variants only) costs RM388 more than on the sedan at RM3,398, while the regular Modulo bodykit (for the V variant only) costs RM1,459 more at RM4,489. However, the Urban Package (door visors, rear panel lining covers, LED side steps) is RM45 cheaper here at RM1,269. All other accessories are priced the same as with the City sedan.

  2026 Honda City Hatchback facelift Malaysian brochure and price list

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  City Hatchback 1.5L V, RM95,900

  • 1.5 litre NA i-VTEC, 121 PS/145 Nm, Earth Dreams CVT
  • Bi-LED projector headlamps (up from halogen projectors)
  • Body-coloured door handles
  • Shark fin antenna
  • 16-inch two-tone Berlina Black alloys with 185/55 tyres
  • New 10-inch Display Audio touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Six airbags, ISOFIX
  • Smart entry with push start, remote engine start, walk-away auto lock
  • Single-zone auto air-con with rear vents
  • Paddle shifters, seven-inch TFT meter
  • Auto-folding side mirrors
  • Auto-dim rear-view mirror
  • Door pocket, footwell and door handle illumination
  • Ambient lighting
  • Four speakers and four tweeters
  • Combination leather upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob
  • Honda Sensing – AEB, adaptive cruise control, lane centring assist, road departure mitigation, front departure alert, auto high beam
  • New blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, plus LaneWatch
  • 289 litre boot, tyre repair kit (no more spare tyre)
  • Stellar Diamond Pearl colour option (V and petrol RS only)
  • Eight-year, unlimited-mileage warranty (all variants)

  City Hatchback 1.5L RS, RM100,900 – adds:

  • RS bumpers with upturned central intake, light bar across the grille
  • Auto front wipers
  • Black exterior door handles
  • Sport pedals
  • 360-degree multi-view camera with moving object detection
  • Honda Connect telematics (you can have it on the V for RM2,450; three-year subscription)

  City Hatchback 1.5L e:HEV RS, RM112,900 – adds:

  • i-MMD hybrid – 109 PS/253 Nm electric traction motor with 98 PS/127 Nm 1.5 litre Atkinson-cycle engine
  • Low-speed follow for the adaptive cruise control
  • Wireless phone charger
  • Electric parking brake with auto brake hold
  • Deceleration selector paddles instead of shift paddles
  • 10-year hybrid battery and component warranty
  • 0-100 km/h in 9.4 seconds and 3.7 l/100 km (petrol: 10.7 seconds, 5.6 l/100 km)
  • No Stellar Diamond Pearl option

  2026 Honda City Hatchback facelift rolls off Melaka plant

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• MIROS chairman proposes raising minimum motorcycle licence age to 18 to curb illegal racing in Malaysia

  In Bikes, Local Bike News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 19 October 2026 12:00 pm

  

  Malaysia should raise the minimum age for a motorcycle licence from 16 to 18 to curb illegal street racing, says Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) chairman Prof Dr Wong Shaw Voon. He said children as young as 12 are already riding motorcycles without licences, with underage riders ranging from primary to secondary school pupils exposed to accident risks and illegal racing.

  However, Wong cautioned that raising the age limit to 18 or even 21 would have little effect if existing laws against underage riding were not enforced effectively, speaking to Utusan Malaysia. “Many underage children do not care whether the minimum age is raised because they are already riding illegally. If this group is not dealt with first, any change to the age limit will achieve little,” he said.

  He added that allowing children to break the law from an early age was particularly worrying as it could erode their respect for the law and the authorities. Wong also stressed that parents and other stakeholders must share responsibility for addressing the problem, rather than leaving the government to tackle it alone.

  

  The proposal comes after amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) came into force, introducing tougher penalties for traffic offences, including illegal street racing and reckless motorcycle riding. Under the Road Transport (Amendment) Act 2026, those offences can attract fines of up to RM10,000. The amendments also aim to strengthen enforcement against tonto syndicates involved in monitoring enforcement operations, while improving enforcement powers and the digitalisation of Road Transport Department (JPJ) services.

  Meanwhile, Malaysian Institute of Transport and Logistics Charter (CILTM) president Prof Dr Muhammad Zaly Shah Muhammad Hussein said raising the minimum motorcycle licensing age from the current 16 should be evaluated using data on those involved in illegal racing before it is treated as a primary solution. Zaly said raising the age limit could reduce young riders’ exposure to road risks, provided they complied with the law.

  

  However, reducing road accidents and curbing illegal racing were two separate outcomes that needed to be assessed independently. “We need data on the offenders before determining how far this measure can help. We do not yet have sufficient evidence to promise a specific percentage reduction,” he said, adding that any increase in the minimum licensing age should be supported by evidence that its road safety benefits outweigh the potential impact on access to education.

  What do you think? Would delaying access to motorcycle licences meaningfully reduce illegal riding, and how to enforce existing laws against children who ride without licences regardless of the legal minimum age?

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• 2026 Aveta Falcon 180 launched in Malaysia at RM9,798, gets 7-inch TFT, traction control, three colours

  In Aveta, Bikes, Local Bike News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 19 October 2026 11:13 am

  

  Aveta Malaysia has launched the new Falcon 180 adventure-style scooter at the Aveta Mega Gathering at Setia City Convention Centre yesterday, priced at RM9,798, excluding insurance. The Falcon 180 is available in three colours: Sahara Bronze, Alpine White and Storm Grey.

  Power comes from the same 174 cc single-cylinder, SOHC engine found in the Aveta Vanguard 180 (RM9,398) and Viper 180 (RM8,998), paired with an automatic CVT transmission. The engine produces 18 hp at 8,500 rpm and 17.2 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

  Suspension consists of an upside-down (USD) front fork and twin rear shock absorbers with external gas reservoirs. The scooter rides on 14-inch front and 13-inch rear aluminium rims, shod with CST tyres.

  

  Equipment highlights include a seven-inch TFT display showing riding information and can replay footage recorded by the front-mounted camera. Safety features include dual-channel ABS and traction control, both of which can be switched off using buttons on the left handlebar.

  Practicality is addressed by underseat storage, a storage compartment beneath the handlebar with USB-A and USB-C charging ports, and a smart key system. The Falcon 180 also gets a 14-litre fuel tank, all-LED lighting including fog lamps, an adjustable windscreen and mounting points for a top box.

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• Isuzu D-Max 2.2 completes East Malaysia journey from Sandakan to Kuching using one tank of fuel – 1,605 km

  In Cars, Isuzu, Local News / by Gerard Lye / 19 October 2026 11:03 am

  

  After using just one tank of fuel to successfully complete a loop of Peninsular Malaysia, the 2026 Isuzu D-Max headed to East Malaysia and managed to achieve a similar as part of the ‘D-Max One Tank. One Nation Challenge’.

  This time, the journey using just one tank of the fuel was from Sandakan in Sabah to Kuching in Sarawak. Similar to the first outing, the challenge involved two variants of the latest D-Max, including the 2.2L 4×4 AT Premium and 2.2L 4×2 Auto Plus. Both use the RZ4F-TC 2.2 litre inline-four turbodiesel engine, which was introduced in March this year to replace the previous RZ4E-TC 1.9 litre unit.

  A new environment presented new challenges for the pick-up trucks, with East Malaysia’s rugged terrain and extreme elevations, the latter including the climb over the Crocker Range, having a huge effect on fuel consumption.

  According to Isuzu Malaysia, the pick-up trucks began their journey at its showroom in Sandakan before heading Telupid where construct of the Pan Borneo Highway remains on-going. Next came the ascend up to Kundasang en route to Kota Kinabalu, with the convoy next making its way towards Sarawak via Brunei.

  

  Stops at Miri, Bintulu, Sarikei and Sibu were also planned, some including visits to Isuzu dealer outlets. By the end of the trip, the pick-up trucks covered 1,605 km and achieved their mission of completing the trip on one tank of fuel.

  “It is easy to claim that a vehicle is fuel efficient by driving it along a smooth and quiet highway. But for us, the Isuzu D-Max’s superiority is best showcased by keeping it real on roads our customers drive on daily. This means traversing narrow trunk roads choked with lorries, roads under construction, and even crossing the Crocker Range at Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest mountain rather than avoiding it,” said Kenichi Kudo, Isuzu Malaysia’s COO for light commercial vehicles.

  “Besides the obvious savings customers gain through the vehicle’s amazing fuel efficiency, the new Isuzu D-MAX 2.2L offers lower operating costs through greater durability, higher productivity and lower road tax making it the compelling pick-up truck choice of in today’s economic climate,” he added..

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• 2026 Peugeot XP400 revised pricing for Malaysia – now RM33,900, down from RM43,990 launch price

  In Bikes, Local Bike News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 19 October 2026 10:55 am

  

  Peugeot Motocycles Malaysia has revised the pricing of its XP400 adventure scooter in Malaysia to RM33,990, with an Adventure Package bringing the total price to RM35,990, excluding insurance, road tax and registration. The XP400 is imported as a completely built-up (CBU) unit, with the revised pricing a reduction of RM10,000 launch price following Peugeot Motorcycles’s official arrival in Malaysia.

  The XP400 is available in two colour options, Mad Black and Satin Technium, in limited numbers and subject to availability. The Adventure Package comprises a genuine Peugeot top box and crash bars, valued at RM2,000 and available in limited quantities.

  

  Power comes from a 400 cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder PowerMotion engine producing 36.7 hp at 8,150 rpm and 38.1 Nm of torque at 5,400 rpm. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and belt final drive.

  Designed to combine everyday scooter practicality with adventure-inspired styling, the XP400 features a 17-inch front wheel and 15-inch rear wheel, shod with 110/70 and 160/60 tyres respectively. Suspension consists of a 41 mm upside-down front fork with 140 mm of travel and a rear monoshock.

  

  Braking is handled by twin 295 mm front discs and a 240 mm rear disc, with dual-channel ABS fitted as standard. The XP400 has a seat height of 815 mm, a wheelbase of 1,545 mm and a kerb weight of 231 kg. Its fuel tank holds 13.5 litres.

  Equipment includes LED lighting, a TFT-LCD instrument display with twin analogue-style meters, and Peugeot i-Connect Bluetooth connectivity with smartphone-based turn-by-turn navigation. Under-seat storage is also found under the seat.

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• Rapid Bus to acquire 1,600 EV buses by 2031 – Loke

  In Local News, Public Transport, Videos / by Jonathan James Tan / 19 October 2026 10:42 am

  

  Transport minister Anthony Loke has revealed that Rapid Bus plans to acquire 1,600 EV buses in stages by 2031 to replace some of Rapid KL‘s and Rapid Penang‘s diesel buses, Bernama reports.

  He said the first phase would involve the acquisition of 250 EV buses – 175 for Rapid KL and 75 for Rapid Penang – for RM200 million.

  “The first stage involves the acquisition of 150 electric buses, with 40 allocated to Rapid Penang and 110 to Rapid KL. Deliveries began in June 2026 and are scheduled to take place in stages until the end of this year.

  “The second stage involves the remaining 100 buses, with 35 allocated to Rapid Penang and 65 to Rapid KL. Deliveries for this stage are expected to begin in stages in January next year and are targeted for completion by March 2027,” Loke said after launching the Rapid Penang EV buses on Saturday.

  He added that in the first stage, 150 chargers would be installed at nine depots, including three in Penang. In the second stage, a further 100 units would be provided at six depots, including two in Penang.

  As of October 13, Rapid Bus had received 52 EV buses – 37 in KL and 15 in Penang – under the first phase. Penang’s 14 8.25-metre buses and one 12-metre bus would serve the island and Seberang Perai.

  “Of course, Rapid Penang, as the provider of stage bus services in Penang, needs to play a supporting role to ensure that first-mile and last-mile connectivity and other aspects can be improved, complementing this transport system,” he said.

  Meanwhile, Loke said Rapid Penang would play an important role in complementing the Mutiara Line LRT project once it was completed, particularly in strengthening public transport connectivity in the state.

  Launch of Rapid Penang EV buses

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• Enjoy BYD’s year-end deals with savings up to RM16,000 off Atto 3, Sealion 7 – limited final CBU units available!

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 19 October 2026 10:41 am

  

  Wow, the year sure went by fast, huh? The final few months are always the best time to buy a new car, and with BYD Year-End Deals, there is no better time than now to benefit from big savings from the world’s best-selling electrified vehicle brand.

  Enjoy exclusive promotions across the lineup, with the BYD Atto 3 available starting from as low as RM109,800 – an overall saving of up to RM16,000. Also on offer is the larger BYD Sealion 7 with total savings of up to RM7,000, with prices now starting from RM159,800.

  Both of these models have been recently updated with larger batteries, delivering a NEDC-rated range of up to 600 km for the Atto 3 and around 650 km for the Sealion 7. That’s enough to theoretically get from Johor Bahru to Ipoh, and if do you need to stop for a top up, it’ll be quick thanks to the availability of an 800-volt electrical architecture, dropping DC fast charging times from 10 to 80% to around 25 minutes on both models.

  And that is not all – BYD is also bundling a complimentary portable charging cable and V2L adapter with every purchase. For extra peace of mind, every BYD comes with a six-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000 km warranty for both the battery and the drive unit.

  Interested? You better hurry, as there is a limited allocation of final CBU fully-imported units available across the country, so do not miss your last chance to own one of these vehicles. Head on over your nearest BYD showroom and take advantage of these BYD Year-End Deals; for more information, visit the official BYD Sime Motors website or its socials on Facebook and Instagram.

   

• Sabah Pan Borneo Highway – actual progress of project is higher than reported 11.4% completion: Deputy CM

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 19 October 2026 10:33 am

  

  The 11.4% completion rate for the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway project highlighted in the recent Auditor-General’s report does not reflect the actual physical progress on the ground, said Sabah deputy chief minister Datuk Seri Joachim Gunsalam, reported Bernama.

  The completion rate figute quoted by in the recent Auditor-General’s report only measured the number of fully handed-over packages, which accounted for just four of the 35 packages under Phase 1 of the project, Joachim said.

  “Although the 11.4% figure is correct in terms of handed-over packages, it does not reflect overall progress as other packages are actively being built, with some alignments recording between 90-93% physical progress,” the Sabah deputy chief minister said.

  Construction works on the project continued to show positive progress, with eight packages spanning 179 km proposed to be opened to motorists in stages before the end of this year, Joachim said.

  Regarding the variation order issue which was reported to have exceeded RM514 million, the deputy chief minister said that the approval for the additional cost falls under the jurisdiction of the federal works ministry and finance ministry, and not the state government.

  

  The variation order was necessitated by technical factors such as the state’s unpredictable hilly topography, which involves slope stability issues, as well as swampy and peat soil structures that change every 1-1.5 km, he said.

  “The state government views the audit findings positively and has taken steps to address them, supported by the excellent cooperation between the state and federal governments,” Joachim said.

  Regarding project delays, Joachim said that the implementation of the Sabah Pan Borneo Highway was affected by the termination of the previous project delivery partner (PDP) model, which forced a shift to the conventional method, making the project reliant on annual federal allocation approvals.

  Most contractor appointments for new packages could only be finalised between February 2024 and January 2026 after the federal government reconsidered the implementation method, in addition to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic before that, he added.

  The delays also arose from a time-consuming land acquisition process, said Joachim, adding that the the government did not take a draconian approach but instead allowed landowners to appeal for compensation, while also acknowledging challenges related to the performance of some contractors, he said.

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• KPDN seizes RON95 petrol samples from seven stations over water contamination complaints in Selangor

  In Local News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 17 October 2026 5:10 pm

  

  After reports of fuel with alleged water contamination in Penang and Kedah, KPDN has seized 27 samples of RON95 petrol from seven Selangor petrol stations, This action was taken following 10 complaints that water-contaminated fuel had damaged vehicles.

  The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Selangor said the inspections were conducted yesterday following public complaints and reports circulating on social media. State director Muhamad Hanif Asa’ari said the samples would be sent to the Malaysian Chemistry Department for laboratory analysis.

  Initial inspections found that all seven premises held valid Controlled Scheduled Articles (CSA) licences and licences under the Petroleum Development Act 1974 (PDA), Hanif said in a press statement. KPDN has issued notices under Section 32 5(1)(c), 6(1)(d) and 7 of the Trade Descriptions Act 2011, requiring the operators to submit documents and information to assist the investigation.

  

  The probe is examining possible offences involving alleged misrepresentation of the petrol supplied. KPDN also reminded petrol station operators to ensure their underground storage tanks are regularly maintained and meet safety and quality standards.

  The ministry warned that strict action would be taken against parties found to have committed offences that jeopardise consumer interests and safety. Affected motorists are advised to retain petrol purchase receipts and workshop inspection reports to support complaints and assist the investigation.

  All photos courtesy of Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) Selangor and used for illustration purposes.

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• Tesla Model 3 updated in Malaysia – 16-inch screen, V2L, Zen Grey; Performance now 600 km WLTP

  In Cars, Local News, Tesla Motors / by Paul Tan / 17 October 2026 8:48 am

  

  The Tesla Model 3 has been updated in Malaysia, following the same update in China earlier this month. The sedan gets a larger 16-inch touchscreen, vehicle-to-load (V2L), a new Zen Grey interior option and darker 19-inch wheels.

  The Performance All-Wheel Drive also gets a new front motor, and with it, a longer range.

  Performance now does 600 km

  The new front motor is the TL2, which is believed to be behind the Model Y L’s acceleration upgrade earlier this month. Unlike the Model Y L, the Model 3 Performance gets no increase in power. Instead, the more efficient motor has helped push its WLTP-rated range up to 600 km.

  That’s 29 km more than the 571 km it was rated at after its last range increase in October 2025, and 72 km more than the 528 km it was quoted at when it launched here in 2024. Back then, Tesla quoted 460 hp, 0-100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 261 km/h.

  Zen Grey interior, 16-inch screen

  

  Inside, the Zen Grey interior replaces the black and white option. It’s priced the same, at RM5,000 over the standard all-black cabin, and it’s the same light grey colour the Model Y switched to in April.

  Zen Grey comes with a black headliner, and the standard black interior now gets one too.

  The central touchscreen grows from 15.4 to 16 inches, matching the Model Y, which got the bigger screen in Malaysia in January. In China, Tesla says the new screen has a higher resolution and a faster refresh rate.

  On the outside, the optional 19-inch Nova wheels now come in a dark finish instead of silver, and are called Dark Nova. They’re a RM7,500 option.

  V2L with a RM350 adapter

  

  

  The Model 3 can now also power external devices from its battery, which Tesla calls Powershare. To use it, you need the Tesla Outlet Adapter, which plugs into the charge port and has a three-pin socket on the other end. It’s priced at RM350, but it’s out of stock at the moment.

  Tesla says the adapter works with all Model Y L units, plus all Model 3 and Model Y trims produced from October 2026 onwards, so Model Y units built from this month get the feature too. Owners can check for “Powershare Support: Enabled” under Software > Additional Vehicle Info on the touchscreen.

  Tesla also notes that the vehicle warranty doesn’t cover damage caused by third-party bi-directional adaptors or chargers.

  Tesla Malaysia doesn’t list a power output, but in China, the same feature supplies up to 2.2 kW (220V, 10A).

  Model 3 line-up and prices

  Prices are unchanged. Here’s the Model 3 line-up in Malaysia, with WLTP-rated ranges:

  • Rear-Wheel Drive: RM149,000 (534 km)
  • Premium Rear-Wheel Drive: RM171,000 (520 km)
  • Premium Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive: RM187,000 (750 km)
  • Performance All-Wheel Drive: RM232,000 (600 km)

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• Luxeed R7 spotted in Malaysia again, now in camo, on a regular plate – Huawei-Chery EV coming?

  In Cars, Local News, Luxeed, Spyshots / by Harvinder Sidhu / 16 October 2026 7:57 pm

  

  The Luxeed R7 has been spotted on Malaysian roads again, and this time it’s wearing camouflage. Earlier sightings of the Huawei-backed electric coupe-SUV here showed it completely undisguised, but this one, filmed on a highway and shared on Threads by @sashitahran, is wrapped in zebra-pattern camo from nose to tail. Only the slim headlights and the full-width tail light are left uncovered.

  View on Threads

  

  

  Screenshots from a video by @sashitahran on Threads

  It also carries a regular Malaysian registration plate rather than a trade plate. That fits with what we found in the road transport department’s (JPJ) data. As we reported earlier this week, nine Luxeed R7s were registered in Malaysia between September 10 and 17, six of them on September 17 alone, all as EVs and in four different colours.

  

  

  

  Earlier sightings of the undisguised Luxeed R7 in Malaysia, by paultan.org FB group members Yh Liew and La Obe

  Luxeed is a brand run by Chery and Huawei as part of Huawei’s Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA). Chery develops and builds the cars, while Huawei supplies the software, driver assistance and other key tech.

  The R7 is a large electric coupe-SUV, measuring 4,956 mm long with a 2,950 mm wheelbase. It sits on an 800-volt platform, and in China it’s offered with either a 292 PS rear-mounted motor or a 496 PS dual-motor all-wheel drive setup.

  Neither Chery nor Huawei has announced Luxeed for Malaysia yet. But with nine R7s already registered and the car now being seen on local roads in camouflage, it looks like more than a passing visit.

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• Amendments to the Road Transport Act comes into effect – illegal street racing now a specific offence in Malaysia

  In Local News / by Anthony Lim / 16 October 2026 7:40 pm

  

  The transport ministry has announced that that the Road Transport (Amendment) Act 2026, which amends the Road Transport Act 1987 [Act 333], has now come into force as of today, October 16. The amendments were passed in parliament on June 24 following the second and third readings of the bill.

  The updated act 2026 comprises 42 amendment clauses, includes several key improvements, as initially in June. The amendments cover four broad categories, these being digitalisation of services and enforcement, an increase in fine and compound rates, the introduction of new provisions and the strengthening and harmonisation of existing provisions.

  They include a new Section 42A, which is aimed at tackling the issue of illegal racing by imposing heavy penalties on offenders, by establishing the act of racing or testing speed on public roads as a specific offence. This provision enables enforcement action to be taken without the need to wait for an accident, injury or loss of life to occur.

  

  For a first conviction, an offender may be subject to a fine of between RM2,000 and RM10,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both. For a second or subsequent conviction, the penalty increases to a fine of between RM5,000 and RM20,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both, the ministry said in a statement.

  Meanwhile, the introduction of Section 110B provides new provisions to make “tonto” activity – in which individuals or groups help lorry drivers evade enforcement by disrupting JPJ field operations – a criminal offence, with authorities being able to take action and mete out strict penalties in the form of fines and/or imprisonment.

  The ministry said that convicted offenders may face a fine of between RM10,000 and RM50,000, imprisonment for a term of one to five years, or both. This offence is also classified as an arrestable one.

  

  Elsewhere, an amendment to Section 53B will reinforce the accountability of registered owners regarding offences detected via enforcement cameras, including automated enforcement systems. This amendment aims to close legal loopholes that could allow certain parties to evade responsibility for offences committed using their vehicles.

  The updated act also contains several provisions to strengthen the legal framework for the use of electronic licenses, documents, records and notices. This includes streamlining vehicle and driver licensing processes and enabling digital accident reporting, subject to established procedures.

  It also strengthens the regulations surrounding motor vehicle safety, covering electric vehicles, modified vehicles, vehicle components, and micro-mobility vehicles.

  

  As for the falsification of vehicle documents, an amendment to Section 108 increases penalties for such offences, including activities related to “cloned” vehicles and the manipulation of vehicle identities. For certain offences, penalties may include a fine of up to RM200,000, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.

  The ministry also reiterated that the implementation of the maximum compound limit for compoundable offences will be increased — from a cap of RM300 to a cap of RM500 — from January 1, 2029, to provide road users with an adequate transition period.

  It however added that the increase in the maximum compound limit does not mean that all traffic offences will automatically incur a RM500 compound, and said that the amount of the compound will depend on the nature of the offence and the regulations established under act. It stressed that the move is not aimed at burdening the public or increasing government revenue collection.

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• 2027 Ducati Panigale V4 gets 218 hp, revised chassis

  In Bikes, Ducati, International Bike News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 16 October 2026 6:18 pm

  

  Getting updates for next year is the 2027 Ducati Panigale V4 superbike, raising output to 218 hp and revising the chassis, aerodynamics and electronics for improved track performance. The latest model recorded an average lap time 0.4 seconds quicker than its predecessor at Italy’s Vallelunga circuit.

  The updates draw on Ducati’s racing experience, with changes aimed at improving corner entry, front-end grip and acceleration out of turns. Revised gearing also reduces the number of gear changes required per lap.

  The new Panigale V4 arrives at European Ducati dealerships from March 2027, followed by North America in April. Availability in other markets, including Malaysia, will follow in subsequent months.

  

  Both the Panigale V4 and V4 S use the 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale 90-degree V4 engine, producing 218 hp at 13,500 rpm and 120.6 Nm of torque at 11,000 rpm — an increase of 2 hp over the previous model. A revised exhaust, enlarged air intake and updated lubrication system improve airflow and reduce mechanical losses. Ducati claims an additional 3.5 hp at 13,000 rpm, while the intake increases air pressure by 0.6% at 300 km/h.

  Longer final-drive gearing, changing from 16/41 to 17/42, and a 15,000 rpm rev limit in second through fifth gears reduce the need for shifts. Ducati says this saves two gear changes per lap at Vallelunga while the optional Akrapovic Full Racing Exhaust Pro adds 11 hp and 7 Nm of torque while cutting weight by 6.6 kg.

  The monocouque frame’s lateral stiffness has been reduced by 12% to improve front-tyre contact at high lean angles, delivering better front-end feel and more precise turn-in. Revised gearing also shortens the effective wheelbase by 8 mm, improving agility, while new biplane wings feature enlarged side endplates.

  

  The V4 S adds adjustable clip-ons that can be raised by 10 mm for track use; the standard V4 retains fixed clip-ons. New Dynamic Engine Brake (DEB) adjusts engine braking according to rear-tyre load, while Race Brake Control (RBC) increases the rear wheel’s contribution during deceleration, together improving stability on corner entry and allow later braking.

  Both Panigale V4s get a six-axis inertial measurement unit, cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control DVO, Slide Control, Wheelie Control DVO, Power Launch DVO and Quick Shift 2.0. Five riding modes are available – Race A, Race B, Sport, Road and Wet.

  A 17-litre aluminium fuel tank, Brembo Hypure monobloc brake calipers, Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa V4 tyres with a 200/60 rear, and 6.9-inch full-TFT dashboard is shared in common between the V4 and V4S. Both also feature full-LED lighting and ready to install Ducati’s Data Logger and Multimedia System.

  

  The Panigale V4 S weighs 187 kg without fuel and features Ducati Electronic Suspension 3.0, with Ohlins NPX-30 forks, a TTX 36 rear shock and steering damper controlled by Ohlins Smart EC 3.0 software. It also gets forged aluminium wheels, lithium battery and adjustable track clip-ons.

  The standard Panigale V4 weighs 191 kg without fuel and comes with a fully adjustable 43 mm Showa Big Piston Fork, Sachs monoshock and steering damper. It rides on five-spoke light-alloy wheels, a lead-acid battery and has fixed clip-ons and both come in single-seat form, with a passenger kit available as an accessory.

  

  For the first time, the Panigale V4S joins Ducati’s Factory Made programme, allowing buyers to specify colours, liveries and selected components during production in Borgo Panigale, Italy. Colour choices include Ducati Red and Ducati Yellow under the Icon collection; Thrilling Black and GP19 Red under Style; and Aviator Grey and Arctic White Silk under Sophistication.

  Five additional colours come from Automobili Lamborghini’s Ad Personam programme – Arancio Xanto, Giallo Belenus, Verde Scandal, Viola Pasifae and Blu Uranus while Performance and Corse liveries are also available. Factory-fitted options include Front Brake PRO and PRO+ packages, an STM dry clutch and adjustable footpegs. The standard Panigale V4 comes in Ducati Red with an Urban Grey frame and black wheels.

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• Zeekr 7X facelift for global markets – still with 800V architecture but with more power, up to 627 km WLTP

  In Cars, International News, Zeekr / by Jonathan Lee / 16 October 2026 6:00 pm

  

  Nearly a full year after the Zeekr 7X was given a facelift in China, the refreshed electric SUV is now being offered in other markets, starting in Europe. The continent gets all of the visual updates but barely any of the mechanical ones.

  On the outside, the 7X remains a handsome beast, with only minor changes that include a new front bumper. This mirrors the sportier design of the 007 GT’s, with corner air inlets flanking the (now no longer active) centre air intake.

  The tailgate is also new and incorporates the rear number plate recess, with the cleaner bumper features a greater use of body colour. Unlike in China, you don’t get chrome trim all around, and Europe continues to lose out on the optional Stargate customisable light curtain available elsewhere due to stricter regulations.

  

  Inside, the 7X has been left well alone, save for a redesigned centre console with a neater-looking sliding storage cover. You still get a 13-inch instrument display, a 16-inch infotainment touchscreen, powered, heated, ventilated and massaging front seats, and power-reclining and heated rear seats, albeit without China’s built-in ottoman and rear touchscreen.

  Unfortunately, the global 7X does without the significant power bump offered in the Middle Kingdom, although outputs do get boosted by 34 PS (25 kW) and 80 Nm to 455 PS (335 kW) and 520 Nm of torque for single-motor rear-wheel drive variants, and 680 PS (500 kW) and 790 Nm for the dual-motor all-wheel drive version. This takes half a second out of the zero-to-100 km/h sprint for the former (5.5 seconds) but only a tenth for the latter (3.7 seconds).

  The new motor(s) must also be more efficient, because despite using the same 75 kWh LFP and 100 kWh NMC batteries as before, the 7X’s WLTP-rated range has seen a marginal uptick to 482 km (+2 km) for the 75 kWh RWD model, 627 km (+12 km) for the 100 kWh RWD variant and 545 km (+2 km) for the 100 kWh AWD car.

  

  Also not making it out of China is the 900-volt electrical architecture, with the global facelift sticking with an 800-volt system. That means the 75 kWh battery continues to support up to 450 kW and can be topped up from 10 to 80% in 10.5 minutes, while the 100 kWh pack drops this down to 420 kW and takes 15 minutes to be charged to the same level.

  In fact, the biggest change is actually the fitment of a new driver assistance system, here developed by Bosch instead of parent Geely as is the case in China. This enables improved adaptive cruise control and updated park assist that lets users select a parking space by simply dragging and dropping a box on the touchscreen. Still no sign of highly-autonomous driving functionality, however, as other rivals have already promised.

  Pricing in Europe will start at €52,990 (RM242,300), and Zeekr promises two new colours – Glacier Silver and Mystic Lilac – and new 21-inch alloy wheel designs will be available to order once deliveries start in the first quarter of next year. Given that the 7X sells relatively well in Malaysia, expect this facelift to also arrive here sometime next year.

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