GIIAS 2025

2025 Hyundai Palisade on display at GIIAS – second-gen, seven-seat SUV with 2.5T hybrid; from RM286k

In Cars, Hyundai, International News / By Gerard Lye / 1 August 2025 5:58 pm / 0 comment

The second-generation Hyundai Palisade was launched in Indonesia in June 2025, just a little over six months after its initial reveal in December 2024. The seven-seater is currently on display at the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), so here’s a live gallery of the brand’s flagship SUV.

Available in three variants there, the latest Palisade starts at 1.105 billion rupiah (about RM286k) for the base Signature 2WD. This is followed by the mid-range Calligraphy 2WD at 1.274 billion rupiah (RM330k) and the range-topping Calligraphy AWD at 1.359 billion rupiah (RM352k).

All variants get the same Smartstream G2.5T Hybrid powertrain, which features a 2.5 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine making 262 PS (258 hp or 193 kW) at 5,800 rpm and 353 Nm of torque from 1,800 to 4,500 rpm. This is augmented by an electric motor rated at 73 PS (72 hp or 54 kW) and 264 Nm, resulting in a total system output of 334 PS (329 hp or 246 kW) and 460 Nm.

It should be noted the previous-generation Palisade facelift launched in Indonesia in 2022 was a diesel-only affair that had a lower starting price. Malaysia got this model later in January 2023 with a choice of turbodiesel and naturally-aspirated petrol engines – the Palisade is currently absent from Hyundai Malaysia’s website.

The hybridised engine is paired exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission, with drive going to either the front or all four wheels – the variant names are clear indicators. Selectable drive modes come as standard, with the sole AWD variant gaining an additional Multi Terrain Mode system.

In terms of equipment, the Signature 2WD comes with 20-inch wheels, LED projector headlamps, LED taillights, a panoramic curved display with dual 12.3-inch screens (infotainment and instrument cluster), leather seat upholstery, powered front seats with driver’s side memory function, dual-zone air-conditioning with rear vents and controls, a wireless charging pad, a hands-free powered tailgate, a Bose sound system and Bluelink telematics.

The seven seats are arranged in a 2-2-3 layout with captain seats in the second row and a 60:40 split-folding bench in the third row, all of which are manually operated. The third-row seats are two-way adjustable for recline only, while the two captain chairs can be folded down from the boot.

Meanwhile, the Calligraphy improves upon the base option by sporting larger 21-inch alloys and variant-specific styling package. The latter includes a six-sided grille that differs from the rectangular-shaped one on the Signature, while the new-profile front bumper better emphasises the SUV’s width and comes with chrome inserts. The side rocker panels, wheel arch garnish and tailgate back panel also have a different design and/or finish to them.

Other improvements over the Signature include Nappe leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display and an in-car fingerprint authentication system. Of more significance are the seat upgrades, with the driver getting the brand’s Ergo Motion seat with internal air pockets.

The front seats also offer more adjustability (18-way driver vs 12-way; 12-way front passenger vs eight-way), while the remaining seats are all power operated (six-way for the second row and four-way for the third row). As such, the first and second rows get a Premium Relaxation mode, while the second and third rows can be folded or unfolded using switches in the boot.

As for safety and driver assistance systems, the entire Palisade range comes standard with six airbags (front, side and curtain), ESC, ABS, hill start assist, trailer stability assist, multi-collision brake, high beam assist, forward collision-avoidance assist 2.0, driver attention monitoring, manual speed limit assist, active cruise control with stop and go, lane keep assist, lane following assist, blind spot collision avoidance asst, a surround view monitor, blind spot view monitor, safe exit assist and all-around parking sensors. The AWD variant gets an additional downhill brake control system.

In its second generation, the Palisade is larger than its facelifted predecessor by measuring 5,065 mm long (+70 mm), 1,980 mm wide (+5 mm), 1,805 mm tall (+55 mm) and with a wheelbase spanning 2,970 mm (+70 mm).

Buyers of the Signature will have Shimmering Silver Metallic, Creamy White Pearl, Ecotranic Gray Pearl and Abyss Black Pearl as available colour options. The Calligraphy variants get an additional Robust Emerald Peal hue. A four-year, 100,000-km warranty comes standard with each purchase along with a four-year, 60,000-km service package and eight-year, 160,000-km hybrid battery warranty.

GALLERY: 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy at the 2025 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show

GALLERY: 2025 Hyundai Palisade Indonesian brochure

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2026 Honda Prelude launching in Japan in Sept – hybrid coupé shown in Indonesia, coming to Malaysia?

In Cars, Honda, International News / By Jonathan Lee / 31 July 2025 3:19 pm / 10 comments

After years of teasing, Honda has finally confirmed that the new sixth-generation Prelude will be launched in Japan in September – nearly two years after it was revealed at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show. Returning to market some 24 years after the departure of the previous car, the sporty coupé is being reborn as a hybrid with some interesting new technologies.

Looking pretty much identical to the show car, the new Prelude features an “Unlimited Glide” design, obviously inspired by the weightless look of a glider. Nowhere is this more evident than in the front end, which features a “wing” framed by L-shaped headlights and slim grille. The upswept shoulder line, downwards-sloping flanks and sweeping low-slung roof emphasise the car’s rear, which gets full-width taillights.

Elsewhere, you’ll find flush door handles, and what appears to be a small boot lid is actually a large tailgate to aid cargo bay access; luggage space can be expanded by folding the split rear seats. Another cue taken from the concept are blue highlights on the split front air intake, rear valance and brake callipers.

Buyers can choose from four colours, including Moonlit White Pearl, first seen on the Acura Performance EV Concept, along with Meteoroid Grey Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl and Flame Red. The Prelude will launch in Japan in a limited-run Honda On special edition in Moonlit White Pearl with a black roof, similar to the concept.

Inside, the Prelude is very similar to the Civic – not surprising, given that it is based on the sedan. You get the same 10.25-inch digital instrument display and nine-inch freestanding infotainment touchscreen, similar three-spoke steering wheel and buttons, mesh-covered air vents and chunky physical air-con control knobs.

There are some subtle differences, of course. Unlike any 11th-generation Civic (not even the hot Type R), the Prelude uses a flat-bottomed steering wheel, replete with a 12 o’clock marker. The air vents are also smaller and hexagon-shaped instead of taking up the entire width of the car.

But it’s on the tall centre console where the biggest difference lies. Here, you’ll find a push-button gear selector that’s typical of Honda hybrids overseas (not here), running right down the middle. It’s flanked by a parking brake button on the right and the drive mode selector and a massive S+ button on the left, with the cupholders placed further aft. Also fitted are what appear to be nicely supportive bucket seats with distinctive high shoulders, upholstered in either black or a fetching two-tone white and dark blue.

Not much is yet known about the Prelude, but Honda has revealed that the car will get the company’s latest e:HEV hybrid technology, consisting of new, more efficient 1.5 litre and 2.0 litre direct injected engines and a smaller electric drive motor.

The centrepiece technology is a new S+ Shift mode, which simulates gearshifts in a similar fashion to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. It’s also been reported that the car will get the Civic Type R’s torque steer-reducing dual-axis MacPherson strut front suspension and adaptive dampers.

Interestingly for us Malaysians, Honda is currently showing the Prelude at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), hinting that it could be sold in ASEAN. Honda Malaysia is, of course, no stranger to selling special models here, most notably a succession of Civic Type R generations starting with the FD2. Are you excited at the prospect of being able to buy the new Prelude? Sound off in the comments.

GALLERY: Honda Prelude at GIIAS 2025

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Citroen Basalt launched in Indonesia – CBU India; 1.2T, 6AT; Kia Seltos/Hyundai Creta rival; priced from RM93k

In Cars, Citroën, International News / By Gerard Lye / 30 July 2025 4:29 pm / 3 comments

While we wait for the Citroen Basalt to arrive in Malaysia – it has been a year – the coupe-styled SUV has already been launched in Indonesia. Making its debut at the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), the Basalt is priced at 359.9 million rupiah (about RM93k).

That figure is for a monotone finish, with two-tone versions retailing for more at 364.9 million rupiah (RM94k). There’s also a Dark Edition being offered that comes with a Perla Nera Black exterior and various black accents for 370.9 million rupiah (RM96k).

The Basalt comes fully imported (CBU) from India and is powered by a PureTech 1.2 litre turbocharged inline-three petrol engine making 110 PS (109 hp or 81 kW) and 205 Nm of torque, with drive going to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of size, the French SUV measures 4,352 mm long, 1,765 mm wide, 1,593 mm tall and has wheelbase spanning 2,651 mm. To put that into context, the Basalt is similar in size to the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, both of which are also sold in Indonesia.

A full spec sheet isn’t currently available on Citroen Indonesia’s official website at the time of writing, but Indonesian media outlets report the Basalt will come with six airbags, ESP, hill hold assist, ABS, EBD, a tyre pressure monitoring system, a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, automatic air-conditioning (with rear vents) and a wireless charging pad.

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Lexus LX 700h launched in Indonesia – 3.5T V6 luxury hybrid SUV with 464 PS; 4 or 7 seats; from RM875k

In Cars, International News, Lexus / By Gerard Lye / 29 July 2025 5:35 pm / 4 comments

Indonesia has welcomed the first-ever electrified Lexus LX with the launch of the LX 700h at this year’s Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS). Unveiled as a new variant of the LX that got updated last October, Indonesia gets the LX 700h in two variants.

The first is the seven-seat LX 700h 4×4 A/T priced at 3.392 billion rupiah (about RM875k), which is followed by the four-seat LX 700h VIP 4×4 A/T at 3.928 billion rupiah (RM1.012 million). Both share the same powertrain based around a V35A-FTS 3.5 litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

A motor generator (MG) with a clutch is positioned between the engine and transmission, contributing to a total system output of 464 PS (457 hp or 341 kW) and 790 Nm of torque. The electric motor is linked to a 288-volt hybrid battery located in the vehicle’s rear floor near the 12-volt battery.

Completing the powertrain is a full-time four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case, while the alternator and a starter are retained as standard components, which is different from the brand’s previous parallel hybrid models.

The output figures are good for a 0-100 km/h time of 6.5 seconds, which is impressive for a vehicle that isn’t an EV and has a kerb weight of up to 2,840 kg, while also measuring 5,100 mm long, 1,990 mm wide, 1,895 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,850 mm.

Revisions made to the LX range are present here too, including a more rigid radiator support, strengthened instrument panel reinforcement, revised cab mount cushions and a redesigned valve structure for the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) actuator. The interior gets a configurable 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster a new Electro-Shiftmatic system (a first for a Lexus off-road 4WD vehicle), new air bladder-based front seats and increased output for cabin wireless charger.

Standard equipment for the base LX 700h with seven seats are 22-inch aluminium wheels in a glossy finish, a leather and wood steering wheel, a head-up display, paddle shifters, powered seats (all rows), leather seat upholstery, a 25-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, a seven-inch air-conditioning touch control panel, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, a front wireless charging pad, a digital rear-view mirror, a moon roof and four-zone climate control.

The list continues with heating and ventilation for the front and second-row seats, massaging front seats, a panoramic view monitor, automated parking and Lexus Safety System+ 3. The last is an ADAS suite with lane departure assist, lane trace assist, pre-collision system (with AEB), blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and parking AEB.

Lexus LX 700h Indonesian spec sheet

The VIP is differentiated from the base option by its Ash Open Pore Sumi Black interior trim (vs Artwood Takanoha) and massaging function for the second-row seats. The four-seat layout catered to taukes, with two plush individual seats in the second row that are separated by a centre console that has a dedicated control panel for certain comfort settings. The rear-left seat across from the driver has a “boss mode” that puts the front passenger seat as far front forward as possible to maximise legroom and has a foot rest on its seatback.

Meanwhile, the more family-friendly base variant’s seven seats are arranged in a 2-3-2 layout with a split-folding bench for both the second and third row. It’s not as fancy and you do lose out on boot space because of the third-row seats, but you can bring more people with you.

The Lexus 700h is offered in five colours (Sonic Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Manganese Luster, Graphite Black Glass Flake and Terrane Khaki Mica Metallic), while the interior colours are Black or Sun Flare for the four-seater. The seven-seater’s options are Black, Crimson, White and Dark Sepia as well as Hazel.

GALLERY: Lexus LX 700h 4×4 A/T (seven-seater) at 2025 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show

GALLERY: Lexus LX 700h Indonesian brochure

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GWM Haval Raptor previewed at GIIAS – 5-seater SUV with petrol, Hi4 PHEV options; coming to Malaysia?

In Cars, GWM, International News / By Jonathan Lee / 29 July 2025 3:11 pm / 10 comments

At the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), GWM is previewing its next possible global Haval model, the Raptor (or Menglong in Chinese, not to be confused by Ford’s high-performance Ranger and F-150 models). Appearing like a shortened H9 – although it really isn’t, as you’ll find out later – the five-seater SUV is being previewed for the first time outside China.

The angular design is very similar to the aforementioned H9’s, with a large upright grille (with three bars instead of its sibling’s four), round LED headlights sitting within square buckets, prominent horizontal shoulders, squared-off wheel arches, distinctive quad square taillights and a sideways-opening tailgate with a full-sized external spare tyre.

In China, the petrol model (the car you see here is the Hi4 plug-in hybrid) has been redesigned to provide some distance to its larger sibling, now sporting rectangular head- and taillights, a “waterfall” grille with vertical slats, and Allen bolt heads in the wheel arches.

In terms of size, the Raptor is slightly narrower and quite a bit lower than the H9, but the main difference is in the wheelbase, which is 112 mm shorter at 2,850 mm, with a corresponding 270 mm decrease in length to 5,070 mm. Despite this, the boot still measures a fairly commodious 586 litres, expandable to 1,404 litres with the rear seats folded.

As the car you see here is trapped in a glass box, we have no access to the interior, but we’ve seen the car before at Auto Shanghai earlier this year and can tell you that the cabin is very similar to the H9’s. That includes the bluff dashboard with chunky rectangular air vents, a digital instrument display (actually larger here at 12.3 inches across) and a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen running on the latest Coffee OS.

Down below is a wide centre console with a 50-watt Qi wireless charger, two rows of physical buttons and a rotary drive mode selectors for the up to nine settings. Unlike the H9, which has a conventional pistol-grip shifter, the Raptor’s gear selector is on the steering column like so many Chinese cars nowadays.

Buyers can opt for power-adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory and heating and ventilation functions, along with a panoramic sunroof, up to ten speakers and a boot light that even has a mosquito-repelling mode. Safety-wise, the car comes with six airbags and a suite of driver assists, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centring assist.

The biggest departure from the body-on-frame H9 is under the skin – the Raptor instead uses a unibody construction with independent MacPherson strut front and multilink rear suspension. Despite this, the car is still pitched as a light off-roader with a maximum water-wading depth of 580 mm.

Power comes from a 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 238 PS and 385 Nm of torque, mated to a nine-speed wet dual-clutch transmission – unlike the ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox found in the longitudinal-engined H9. You also get a choice of either front- or all-wheel drive, the latter with an electronic locking rear differential.

Again, this particular unit uses GWM’s Hi4 system, powered by a 167 PS/243 Nm 1.5 litre turbocharged Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine, a 95 PS/160 Nm electric motor and a two-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) managing the two power sources at the front. Meanwhile, the rear motor churns out 204 PS and 350 Nm of torque, resulting in a total electric output of 299 PS and 510 Nm, or a whopping 378 PS and 750 Nm with the engine included.

Haval Raptor at Auto Shanghai 2025

That’s with the standard 19.1 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) that delivers a range of 102 km on China’s admittedly lenient CLTC cycle. Opt for the 27.5 kWh pack – which also boosts range to 145 km – and the system power swells to 383 PS. Despite this, the doubtlessly heavier pack means the more powerful version is actually slower, hitting 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds (versus 6.0 seconds for the 19.1 kWh variant).

Fuel consumption is rated at just 1.68 litres per 100 km for the 19.1 kWh model and an even more impressive 1.15 litres per 100 km with the 27.5 kWh battery. Even with a low charge, those figures only rise to 6.0 and 6.1 litres per 100 km respectively. Both will also support 33 kW of DC fast charging and can be specced with the locking rear diff.

Is the Haval Raptor coming to Malaysia as a more rugged alternative to the H6? It remains to be seen – GWM Malaysia had previously revealed plans to bring in the H9 instead; given that the company has its hands full preparing for the launch of the Wey 80 MPV, expect either car to arrive next year at the earliest.

GALLERY: GWM Haval Raptor at Auto Shanghai 2025

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Suzuki eVitara previewed in Indonesia ahead of launch in early 2026 – brand’s first EV with up to 500 km range

In Cars, International News, Suzuki / By Gerard Lye / 29 July 2025 3:02 pm / 1 comment

According to a report by CNN, Suzuki will begin selling the eVitara in Indonesia in early 2026. This will be the brand’s first electric vehicle (EV) to go on sale in the country, but before that happens, the electric SUV is being previewed at the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS).

The eVitara was first revealed back in November last year and has a twin in the form of the Toyota Urban Cruiser. Built on the company’s HEARTECT-e platform it measures 4,275 mm long, 1,800 mm wide, 1,635 mm tall and has a wheelbase spanning 2,700 mm. The Suzuki SUV is offered with two battery capacities: 49 kWh and 61 kWh.

The smaller of the two is paired with a front electric motor rated at 144 PS (142 hp or 106 kW) and 189 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the 61-kWh battery comes with a more powerful electric motor serving up 174 PS (172 hp or 128 kW) but with the same amount of torque.

The higher-capacity battery can also be had with all-wheel drive (marketed as ALLGRIP-e), which adds a 65 PS (64 hp or 48 kW) rear electric motor for a total system output of 184 PS (181 hp or 135 kW) and 300 Nm. Suzuki is claiming a range of up to 500 km with the 61-kWh battery, although it has yet to reveal official range figures.

The eVitara is a global model that will be produced at the company’s Gujarat plant in India, reports Autocar India, with 50% of production designated for export to European and other global markets. The EV will first go on sale in India, with pricing expected to be announced in September this year.

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Daihatsu Rocky Limited Edition at GIIAS – production Crossfield, two-tone Ativa twin, only 10 units, RM64k

In Cars, Daihatsu, International News / By Jonathan Lee / 29 July 2025 10:56 am / 2 comments

Fans of the Daihatsu Rocky Crossfield shown at last year’s Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) now have the chance to buy essentially that at the ongoing 2025 show with the launch of the new Rocky Limited Edition. Based on the mid-spec 1.2X CVT variant, the more rugged-looking variant receives the show car’s distinctive two-tone look and a few other accoutrements.

Offered exclusively in Energetic Orange, the LE comes with matte black bumpers that are giving base model Proton Wira. That’s not exactly a desirable association, so it’s a good job Daihatsu also added a grey grille bar (with the “Daihatsu” script, which is pretty cool) and matte black “Rocky Limited Edition” graphics. A gloss black finish for the roof, door mirrors and 16-inch turbine-style alloys completes the look.

Inside, the LE gets some gloss black trim on the steering wheel, air vents, door grab handles and gear lever surround. Otherwise, the car is identical to the 1.2X CVT variant, powered by a 1.2 litre WA-VE naturally-aspirated three-cylinder engine pushing out 88 PS and 115 Nm of torque. You get LED headlights, fabric seats, a digital instrument display and a seven-inch touchscreen head unit, but just two airbags and no Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) features – not even autonomous emergency braking.

By the way, when Daihatsu says the car is limited, they mean it – just ten units are being made available exclusive at GIIAS. It’s priced at 248.8 million rupiah (RM64,400), making it 4.3 million rupiah (RM1,100) more expensive than the regular 1.2X CVT. We should point out that the Perodua Ativa starts from RM62,500, and while it doesn’t get the LE’s cool looks, even the base model comes with a turbo engine, six airbags and ASA.

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Wuling Cortez Darion MPV shown at GIIAS 2025 – EV and PHEV, up to 1,000 km combined hybrid range

In Cars, International News, Wuling / By Mick Chan / 28 July 2025 7:05 pm / 5 comments

Wuling has unveiled the Cortez Darion duo of MPVs at the 2025 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), these models will be offered in battery-electric (EV) as well as plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants. This marks the return of the Cortez nameplate, which was worn by a 129 hp/174 Nm 1.8 litre petrol-powered MPV that was shown at the 2018 iteration of GIIAS.

The duo will be produced at the Wuling manufacturing facility in Cikarang, West Java, said the manufacturer. According to Kompas, the Wuling Cortez Darion range will be priced from 400 million rupiah to 500 million rupiah (RM103,435-129,293) in the republic.

2025 Wuling Cortez Darion EV

In terms of exterior dimensions, the Cortez Darion measures 4,910 mm long, 1,850 mm wide and 1,770 mm tall with a 2,910 mm wheelbase. Powertrain for the Cortez Darion EV is by a single 150 kW (204 PS) electric motor; according to an Indonesian source, this is powered by a battery with a 61 kWh capacity.

Wuling states that DC charging can recharge the Cortez Darion EV from 30-80% in 30 minutes, and offer a total range of 540 km on the Chinese domestic CLTC test cycle.

2025 Wuling Cortez Darion PHEV

Joining the battery-electric MPV is its plug-in hybrid stablemate, the Cortez Darion PHEV. The plug-in hybrid variant gets a 1.5 litre dedicated hybrid engine, along with a motor rated at 145 kW (198 PS) that sends drive to the wheels through a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT).

Pure electric range for the Cortez Darion PHEV is a claimed 125 km on the CLTC test cycle, while combined range is claimed to be in excess of 1,000 km. The battery in the Cortez Darion PHEV can be recharged via DC, and this, too is capable of a 30-80% recharge in 30 minutes.

For both versions, access to the second and third rows of seats are via a pair of powered sliding doors, while the second row of the seven-seater features a pair of captain chairs. Also included here is an electric sunroof. According to Wuling, pre-orders for the Cortez Darion MPV have opened in Indonesia.

Wuling Cortez Darion MPV, EV variant

Wuling Cortez Darion MPV, PHEV variant

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Toyota bZ4X facelift previewed in Indonesia: now CKD, FWD only, 224 PS, 573 km range, will be much cheaper

In Cars, International News, Toyota / By Jonathan Lee / 28 July 2025 1:34 pm / 6 comments

Revealed back in March, the facelifted Toyota bZ4X is now being previewed at the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) ahead of a local launch at the end of the year. Another prohibitively expensive EV for the archipelago? Not so fast, because this one will actually be CKD locally assembled.

The move, PT Toyota Astra Motor said, is part of the carmaker’s pledge to support the government’s policy of accelerating EV adoption while “strengthening the empowerment of the national industry.” The company is also promising a more affordable bZ4X as part of the localisation (along with greater availability of spare parts), meaning it should cost a damn sight less than the 1.19 billion rupiah (RM307,400) asked by the outgoing model.

It will also be a better EV than the last one. According to Antara News, the new bZ4X will be offered solely in front-wheel-drive form, with power now up 20 PS to 224 PS (165 kW); a commensurate increase in battery capacity (marginally increased to 73.1 kWh) also bumps up the range by 73 km to 573 km on the WLTP cycle.

Meanwhile, the bZ4X’s polarising design has been ever so slightly homogenised. Toyota’s distinctive “hammerhead” horizontal front blade has been retained, but the LED daytime running lights are now C-shaped, while the main headlight projectors have been cast off, integrated into the vertical air curtains. Elsewhere, the massive angular plastic wheel arch trims are now painted either in gloss black (shown here) or body colour. New wheels are also on, measuring 20 inches in diameter here.

Inside, there’s a redesigned dashboard, sporting a new 14-inch touchscreen that incorporates the air-con controls and physical temperature control knobs, similar to what you’ll find on Lexus’ models. You also get a completely revised centre console featuring twin 15-watt Qi wireless chargers for the first time.

Under the skin, the revised suspension settings and adjustments to the bodywork have delivered lower noise and vibration levels and improved comfort and driving dynamics. The available Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of driver assists include adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centring assist for Level 2 semi-autonomous driving.

With CKD local assembly in ASEAN now a viable option, could Malaysia follow suit? Remember, UMW Toyota Motor previewed the car several times (we’ve even driven it) ahead of an expected local launch last year, but appeared to have pulled the plug at the last minute, likely due to uncompetitive pricing next to the advancing Chinese opposition.

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2025 Nissan X-Trail e-Power launched in Indonesia – 4th-gen finally in ASEAN, RM205k, Malaysia next?

In Cars, International News, Nissan / By Jonathan Lee / 28 July 2025 10:43 am / 12 comments

We’ve been awaiting the arrival of the fourth-generation X-Trail ever since its North American counterpart, the Rogue, was revealed way back in 2020. And while Malaysians will have to wait a while more, the C-segment SUV has finally been launched in Indonesia at the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), marking the first time it’s being sold in ASEAN outside of Singapore.

Available solely as an e-Power hybrid with e-4orce all-wheel drive, the seven-seater X-Trail looks to be fully-imported in Japan because it’s not cheap, priced at 795 million rupiah (RM205,300). That makes it slightly more expensive than the CR-V, which starts at 759 million rupiah (RM196,000), but significantly cheaper than the RS e:HEV hybrid version, which costs a whopping 825.8 million rupiah (RM213,300).

That money buys you dual electric motors – the front one makes 204 PS (150 kW) and 330 Nm of torque, the rear churning out 136 PS (100 kW) and 195 Nm. This being an e-Power vehicle, of course, both are juiced by a petrol engine, in this case a 1.5 litre KR15DDT turbocharged three-cylinder with VC-Turbo variable compression. The mill functions solely as a generator to charge the 1.8 kWh battery, with zero mechanical connection to the wheels, and you also get e-Pedal one-pedal driving.

As we’ve seen years before, the X-Trail sports a fairly modern design with dual-tier headlights, a large V-motion grille, prominent front and rear haunches, a kinked D-pillar, reverse-direction C-shaped taillight graphics and optional contrasting black roof.

Inside, there’s a clean horizontal dashboard with a tall centre console, a low pebble-like gear selector, a split-opening armrest and twin 12.3-inch displays for the instrumentation and infotainment. A rotary selector on the centre console lets users choose between Auto, Eco, Sport, Off-road and Snow drive modes. The boot measures 485 litres with the third-row seats folded.

The single variant comes fully equipped with full-LED lighting, 19-inch five-spoke two-tone alloy wheels, triple-zone auto air con, ten-way power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a 10.8-inch head-up display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 15-watt Qi wireless charger, a 360-degree camera system with Moving Object Detection (MOD) and a nine-speaker Bose sound system.

Driver assists include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, a driver attention monitor and auto high beam.

With the X-Trail finally making its way to other Southeast Asian markets, might we see it arriving in Malaysia next? Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) already previewed the car way back at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) in December, so here’s hoping we see some movement soon.

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2025 Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz launched in Indonesia – from RM70k, Cartenz X fr RM94k; 1.5L NA, IVT/6MT

In Cars, Hyundai, International News / By Gerard Lye / 25 July 2025 5:40 pm / 4 comments
Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz

The Hyundai Stargazer MPV and its crossover alter ego, the Stargazer X, have been given a facelift in Indonesia to now become the Stargazer Cartenz and Stargazer Cartenz X. According to the South Korean automaker, the refresh is part of its strategic move in realising “the real Indonesian car” specifically designed for Indonesia’s roads. To that extent, the name ‘Cartenz’ is a reference to Puncak Cartenz, the highest peak in Indonesia.

Buyers will have four variants (Trend, Style, Smart HSS and Prime HSS) to choose from if they go with the Stargazer Cartenz, whereas there are just three options (Trend, Style, Prime Package) with the Stargazer Cartenz X. Every variant features the same engine, a Smartstream 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four MPI petrol unit developing 115 (113 hp or 84.4 kW) at 6,300 rpm and 143.8 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm.

Hyundai’s IVT, which is a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that uses a chain belt rather than a push belt, is the only transmission available with the Stargazer Cartenz X. As for the Stargazer Cartenz, the Trend and Style can be had with either a six-speed manual or IVT, while the Smart HSS and Prime HSS are IVT only. Pricing for each variant is as follows:

Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz
- Trend: 6MT at 269.9 million rupiah (about RM70k); IVT at 279.9 million rupiah (RM72k)
- Style: 6MT at 289.9 million rupiah (RM75k); IVT at 299.9 million rupiah (RM78k)
- Smart HSS: 332.9 million rupiah (RM86k)
- Prime HSS: 350.4 million rupiah (RM91k)
Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz

Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz X
- Trend: 361.9 million rupiah (RM94k)
- Style: 374.9 million rupiah (RM97k)
- Prime Package: 391.9 million rupiah (RM101k)
In terms of design changes, the most obvious is seen at the front, where there’s now a longer bonnet and regular headlamps that are positioned higher up. The latter replaces the previous split setup and is accompanied by more expressive daytime running lights that form a ‘H’ if you look from afar.

The significantly larger front grille is also hard to ignore with its generous amounts of rectangular structures, while the lower apron gets prominent faux side intakes bookending the functional central intake. At the rear, the taillights mimic the H-shaped motif at the front, which should appease those who weren’t a fan of the pre-facelift’s large triangles.

Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz (left), Stargazer (right)

The X version of the Stargazer Cartenz gets these general changes, but its grille takes up even more real estate, extending all the way down to meet the lower central intake. Additionally, the crossover-inspired model is fitted with chunkier front and rear bumpers, a larger spoiler, more robust roof rails and its wheel arch surrounds are in black instead of body-coloured units on the non-X offering.

With the new bodies come revised dimensions, and the Stargazer Cartenz measures 4,575 mm long, 1,780 mm wide, 1,695-1,710 mm tall and its wheelbase spans 2,780 mm (unchanged from the Stargazer). Compared to the Stargazer (no Cartenz), the new model is only 115 mm longer and 15 mm tall, the latter with 17-inch wheels fitted (lesser variants get 16-inch units).

With its rugged appearance, the Stargazer Cartenz X is larger than its non-X stablemate, coming in at 4,610 mm long, 1,820 mm wide and 1,740 mm tall (including the roof rails), but with the same wheelbase of 2,780 mm (also unchanged from the Stagazer X). Placed alongside the older Stargazer X, the new model is 115 mm longer, 5 mm wider and 30 mm taller.

Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz X (left), Stargazer X (right)

While there are notable differences on the outside, the interior of both models is pretty much identical and improved from before. Gone is the large frame that houses the recessed instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen, which is now replaced with a neater and more modern dual-screen layout.

This also sees an overhauled dashboard with slimmer air vents that no longer have tubular decorative trim, while the area ahead of the front passenger has been dug into to create a useful storage cubby. Other changes include a new glove box with silver trim around the latch, while the digital air-conditioning controls are on a rectangular panel that is slightly angled just above the power ports.

Coming to available equipment, the Stargazer Cartenz can be had with MFR (multifaceted reflector) LED headlamps, 16- or 17-inch wheels, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster (alternative is analogue dials with a 4.2-inch display), automatic AC (alternative is a manual system, both with rear vents), a wireless charging pad, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen (alternative is an eight-inch unit), up to six speakers, Bluelink telematics, a tyre pressure monitor, up to six airbags and the usual mix of passive safety systems.

Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz X (left), Stargazer (right)

Variants with ‘HSS’ in their name get the Hyundai SmartSense ADAS suite that includes functions such as blind spot collision-avoidance assist, forward collision-avoidance assist (AEB), lane following assist, lane keeping assist, rear cross traffic collision-avoidance assist, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, safe exit warning, high beam assist, driver attention warning and lead vehicle departure alert.

Given the higher price point of the Stargazer Cartenz X, all variants of the model are much better equipped than their non-X counterparts. Every variant of the crossover-inspired model come with MFR LED headlamps, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, front and rear parking sensors and Bluelink telematics.

Higher-end variants get further goodies such as a powered driver’s seat with ventilation function and an eight-speaker Bose sound system. SmartSense is limited to the Style and Prime Package, the latter with additional functions such as a blind spot view monitor and surround view monitor.

2025 Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz Indonesian spec sheet (left), Stargazer Cartenz X (right); click to enlarge

All variants of both new models come with three-row seating, with the second row being a 60:40 split-folding bench or optioned with two captain chairs (not available for the Stargazer Cartenz Trend), while the third row has a 50:50 split-folding bench. There is 185 litres of boot space behind the third row and 585 litres behind the second row.

Finally, colours. The Stargazer Cartenz comes in Titan Gray Metallic, Magnetic Silver Metallic, Creamy White Pearl and Midnight Black Pearl, with its interior available in either Black or Beige (Prime HSS only). The Stargazer Cartenz X only gets black interior and its exterior colours are identical to the non-X, but with Optic White Matte and Gravity Gold Matte being additional options.

In Indonesia, the Stargazer Cartenz competes against the Toyota Veloz (297.2 million to 322.4 million rupiah; RM77k to RM83k) and Mitsubishi Xpander (270.1 million to 337.8 million rupiah; RM70k to RM87k), while the X version takes on the Mitsubishi Xpander Cross (338 million to 364.2 million rupiah; RM87k to RM94k). What do you think of the Cartenz duo? Should they be sold here?

GALLERY: 2025 Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz at the 2025 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show

GALLERY: 2025 Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz Indonesian brochure

GALLERY: 2025 Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz X at the 2025 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show

GALLERY: 2025 Hyundai Stargazer Cartenz X Indonesian brochure
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Kia EV4 sedan shown at GIIAS 2025 – 204 PS FWD; two battery sizes, up to 630 km range WLTP

In Cars, International News, Kia / By Mick Chan / 25 July 2025 2:13 pm / 4 comments

The Kia EV4 is shown at the 2025 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), following its debut in February this year. Shown in Indonesia in sedan guise, this is one of two bodystyles for the EV4, the other being the hatchback.

The EV4 uses a 400-volt electrical architecture of its stablemates the EV3 and EV5, rather than the 800-volt architecture of the manufacturer’s E-GMP vehicle platform.

Two battery variants feature in the EV4 range, starting with the Base that packs a 58.3 kWh battery that offers up to 430 km of range on the WLTP testing standard, while the Long Range variant brings a 81.4 kWh battery that yields up to 630 km of range (WLTP).

Both battery variants are mated to the same powertrain specification that is a single 204 PS drive motor, enabling 0-100 km/h acceleration times of 7.4 seconds for the Base variant and 7.7 seconds for the Long Range variant; both reach a top speed of 170 km/h.

Charging for the EV4 via 305 kW DC brings a 10-80% state of charge in 29 minutes for the Base, or 31 minutes for the Long Range with the larger battery. AC charging is supported at up to 11 kW, bringing a 10-100% full charge in five hours and 20 minutes for the Base, or seven hours and 15 minutes for the Long Range. Conversely, vehicle-to-load (V2L) is rated at 3.6 kW, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) at 10 kW.

In terms of exterior dimensions, the EV4 sedan measures 4,730 mm long, 1,860 mm wide and 1,480 mm tall with a 2,820 mm wheelbase. Here, the display example of the EV4 sedan is fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels, shod in tyres measuring 215/50R19. For luggage capacity, the EV4 sedan gets 490 litres.

Inside, the EV4 gets a trio of displays within a single housing, namely a 12.3-inch instrument panel, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 5.3-inch climate control touchscreen in the middle.

According to local Indonesian news sources, the EV4 sedan gets a Harman Kardon sound system, along with front seats with relaxation functionality, as well as ventilation, heating and position memory.

For driving assistance systems, the EV4 sedan gets a Highway Driving Assist 2, Driver Attention Warning, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2, Lane Following Assist 2, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Remote Parking Assist Entry. Meanwhile, the customisable i-Pedal 3.0 is made to work across all levels of adaptive Smart Regenerative Braking function, including in reverse.

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2025 Subaru Forester launched in Indonesia – sole 2.5L variant with 185 PS, EyeSight ADAS; from RM190k

In Cars, International News, Subaru / By Gerard Lye / 25 July 2025 12:39 pm / 9 comments

The sixth-generation Subaru Forester has been launched in Indonesia, where it is offered in a sole 2.5i-S EyeSight variant priced at 735.5 million rupiah (about RM190k).

That makes the latest Forester, which was first revealed back in November 2023, more expensive than the Mazda CX-5 (from 647.7 million rupiah or RM167k) but cheaper than the Honda HR-V (from 759 million rupiah or RM196k). As part of a GIIAS promo, the SUV is being offered at an introductory price of 695.5 million rupiah (RM180k).

In terms of specifications, the Forester is powered by a 2.5 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder boxer petrol engine making 185 PS (182 hp or 136 kW) at 5,800 rpm and 247 Nm of torque at 3,700 rpm. This is mated to a Lineartronic CVT and all-wheel drive system to enable a 0-100 km/h time of 9.7 seconds and top speed of 205 km/h.

Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps, roof rails, a hands-free powered tailgate, a powered driver’s seat, a power-sliding glass roof, a wireless charger, dual-function X-Mode, Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) as well as an 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support. There’s also EyeSight hardware in the form of stereo cameras, a wide-angle monocular camera and radar sensors.

On the driver assistance front, the Forester comes equipped with LED cornering lights, steering-responsive headlamps, rear cross traffic alert, a multi-view rear-view camera, front and rear autonomous emergency braking, high beam assist, lane departure prevention, autonomous emergency steering, adaptive cruise control, lead vehicle start alert, lane centring control and pre-collision throttle management.

Buyers will have a choice of six exterior colours, including Crystal White Pearl, Crystal Black Silica, Daybreak Blue Pearl, Autumn Green Metallic, Brilliant Bronze Metallic and River Rock Pearl. Leather seats are standard and come in two colours, with black offered as standard. There’s also a brown option, although this requires the car be painted in Crystal Black Silica or Brilliant Bronze Metallic.

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Daihatsu Ayla Retro Future at GIIAS – Perodua Axia with round headlights, turbofans, air suspension!

In Cars, Daihatsu, International News / By Jonathan Lee / 25 July 2025 11:46 am / 7 comments

Aside from launching the Rocky e-Smart Hybrid, PT Astra Daihatsu is also showcasing a unique take on the Ayla (badged as the Perodua Axia in Malaysia) at the ongoing Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS). Created in collaboration with local YouTuber and former radio announcer Gofar Hilman, the Ayla Retro Future is a refreshing departure from the aggressive approach of most tuning houses, taking on more of a surfer vibe.

The entry-level hatchback now sports a two-tone white and turquoise colour scheme with some exquisite pinstriping on the bonnet and C-pillars. But it’s the mods that impress the most – the Retro Future gains a whole new front fascia with a different bonnet and headlights (surely lifted from another Daihatsu) and a simple front bumper with a slim grille and an upturned air intake.

Meanwhile, the head- and taillights have been turned into buckets for retro-style round lamps (bringing to mind Japan’s popular Mira Gino), while the wheels are white 15-inch five-spoke items from Gofar’s Turbo Bastard brand, with the front rollers getting turbofan covers with a cartoon design. The rear bumper has also been smoothened and features a round reverse light, and the car is even lowered on Airgen air suspension, with a canister in the boot!

Inside, the Ayla has been retrimmed by Vertue Concept and features turquoise fabric and vinyl seats with an interesting brown gradient panels, as well as a turquoise finish for the plastic door armrests. The Retro Future is built on the bones of the base 1.0 M, evident in the bargain-basement single-DIN head unit, featureless steering wheel with plenty of blank buttons, lack of rev counter and air-con direction knob, and five-speed manual gearlever.

Power comes from the Axia’s 1.0 litre naturally-aspirated VVT-i three-cylinder engine, here producing 67 PS and 89 Nm of torque (2 Nm less than the Perodua’s). Would you like to see an Axia getting the same treatment over here? Sound off in the comments after the jump.

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2025 Honda StepWGN e:HEV launched in Indonesia – 3-row MPV with 2.0L hybrid system; from RM163k

In Cars, Honda, International News / By Gerard Lye / 25 July 2025 10:11 am / 10 comments

The sixth-generation Honda StepWGN e:HEV has made its launch debut at this year’s Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) following the start of order taking in June. The hybrid MPV was previously previewed at last year’s GIIAS and now gets an official price: 629 million rupiah (about RM162.7k).

That figure makes the StepWGN the fifth most expensive on Honda model on sale in Indonesia, with the Honda Civic RS, CR-V, Accord and Civic Type R (in ascending order of priciness) have higher starting prices.

For the money, the StepWGN e:HEV comes with Honda’s Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system featuring a 2.0 litre Atkinson-cycle inline-four petrol engine making 145 PS and 175 Nm of torque. This primarily serves to generate electricity for a front electric motor rated at 184 PS and 315 Nm, although the engine can also directly drive wheels via a lock-up clutch at higher speeds for better efficiency. This setup is similar to what you’ll find in the hybrid versions of the Civic and CR-V.

The Indonesian-spec StepWGN has a 2-2-3 seat layout, with the second-row being individual captain chairs that can moved sideways and slid forwards and backwards, both with leg rests. As for the third row, it is a (rather tight) 50:50 split-folding bench that can be stowed into the floor for flat boot, which is accessed via a conventional upswinging tailgate – the previous Waku Waku Gate (a tailgate with a small sideways-opening door) is no more.

In terms of dimensions, the StepWGN measures 4,829 mm long, 1,752 mm wide, 1,840 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,888 mm. That makes it larger than the competition in Indonesia, namely the Nissan Serena e-Power and Toyota Voxy, while also costing less – the Voxy starts at 630.3 million rupiah (RM163k) and the Serena from 655 million rupiah (RM169k).

The ‘Spada’ badge at the back refers to one of several trim level offered in Japan, with standard equipment here being 16-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, power-sliding doors, LED headlamps and a Honda Sensing ADAS suite (AEB, lead vehicle departure notification, traffic sign recognition, adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist auto high beam).

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