Detail

The first major update to the current-generation Land Rover Defender since its 2019 debut has been spied testing, featuring evolutionary exterior revisions and a groundbreaking interior configuration. The iconic boxy silhouette is retained with a redesigned front bumper incorporating larger fog lamps and a wider lower air intake, while a new integrated roof spoiler improves aerodynamic efficiency. The most significant innovation is the introduction of a 2+2 four-seat independent configuration, previously exclusive to the Defender 130, now expected to be available on the Defender 110. Powertrain updates are anticipated alongside these enhancements. The updated Defender is expected to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, strengthening its position in the premium off-road segment.

Horse Powertrain, the Geely-Renault joint venture, unveiled its X-Range ultra-compact 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine family at Auto China Beijing. Designed to convert battery electric vehicles into hybrid, plug-in hybrid or range-extender configurations, the lineup includes the F15 direct-drive system with integrated single-speed transmission and flexible motor layouts (P1+P3 or P2), and the C15 flat-mounted rear-drive variant optimized for NVH and floor space utilization. Available in 95 PS naturally-aspirated and 163 PS turbo forms with over 200 kW of electric output, the powertrains offer automakers adaptable electrification transition solutions amid shifting global EV strategies.

The Cadillac XT5 plug-in hybrid has appeared in MIIT homologation filings as an addition to the current ICE lineup. The PHEV variant features a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with front and rear electric motors, retaining the signature shield grille and split-headlamp design while adding a roof-mounted LiDAR module indicating advanced driver assistance capabilities. Exterior details include active grille shutters, fender-mounted sensors, conventional door handles, multi-spoke wheels, and a concealed exhaust system. Dimensions are 4,888/1,957/1,685(1,688)mm with a 2,863mm wheelbase. The XT5 PHEV expands Cadillac's electrified portfolio in the mid-size luxury SUV segment, where the current ICE range is priced between RMB 379,900 and RMB 459,900.

BMW Group Malaysia has launched the all-new J01 MINI Cooper SE, featuring a front-mounted electric motor producing 218 PS and 330 Nm, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. The 54.2 kWh battery delivers a WLTP range of 402 km with 95 kW DC fast charging capability. The cabin features a 9.4-inch OLED center display with HUD projection replacing traditional instrumentation, plus Harman Kardon audio. Safety equipment includes AEB, LKAS and BSM, with ACC available via the optional Driving Assistant Plus package. Pricing starts from RM193,888 with five color options.

Martin Schulz, newly appointed president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, outlined the brand's product offensive in his first media engagement. The company will selectively introduce models from a global lineup of 40 new products over the next two to three years, beginning with the all-electric C178 CLA. Future arrivals are expected to include the GLC EQ, W520 C-Class EV, EQS and GLE facelifts, and an entry-level G-Class. Schulz emphasized agile product planning to respond to Malaysia's dynamic market environment.

The new Audi A5L Sportback has launched with six variants priced from RMB 259,900 to RMB 382,900 under limited-time offers. Built on the PPC platform, the fastback features dimensions of 4,903/1,883/1,427mm with a 2,922mm wheelbase—74mm longer and with 22mm more wheelbase than the global A5. Power comes from the fifth-generation EA888 engine with MHEV plus mild-hybrid technology, E3 1.2 electrical architecture, and Huawei Qiankun intelligent driving system. Configuration changes see tire pressure monitoring moved from standard to optional equipment on the Luxury, Premium quattro, Intelligent, and Intelligent quattro variants, with the Luxury variant additionally losing matrix LED headlights. The 200kW flagship variants remain unchanged. The pricing and configuration strategy reflects Audi's approach to optimizing product competitiveness through tiered equipment offerings in the premium sedan segment.