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SMMT data reveals the UK used car market sustained post-pandemic recovery in 2025, with EV transactions surging nearly 50% to represent nearly one in ten sales. The industry faces significant workforce transformation, with almost two-thirds of roles requiring new competencies in battery management, high-voltage systems, and AI within a decade. SMMT showcased automotive apprentices at the House of Lords, highlighting sector commitment to talent development. Additionally, SMMT partnered with the Bus Centre of Excellence to launch "Meet the Bus Operator," facilitating zero-emission bus fleet decarbonisation through targeted investment and supplier engagement at the Commercial Vehicle Show.

The next-generation Lexus ES has been spotted at dealerships ahead of its April market launch. The redesign features the brand's evolved spindle grille—now closed-off for electrification—paired with split-type irregular LED headlamps comprising lightning-bolt DRLs above and integrated main beams within vertical black trim panels. A trapezoidal lower grille with graduated diamond patterning completes the front fascia. The model will debut with both hybrid and battery-electric powertrains, initially offered as CBU imports before transitioning to local production upon completion of Lexus' Chinese manufacturing facility.

Honda has revealed additional production details of the Super-One ahead of its Japanese launch later this year. The hot hatch features a new "Boost Violet Pearl" hero color inspired by blue jet lightning, with wheel diameter reduced from 16 to 15 inches while retaining the eight-spoke two-tone heat-sink design. The interior builds upon the N-One e: architecture with heavily bolstered sport seats, a purple Boost button on the steering wheel, and a dedicated seven-inch instrument display showing battery temperature, power meter, and simulated tachometer. As the first compact Honda to feature a Bose eight-speaker sound system, the Super-One is expected to utilize a 29.6 kWh battery with WLTP range slightly below the N-One e:'s 295 km rating.

The Lepas L4 SUV from Chery's new sub-brand has been spotted in Malaysia during promotional filming, signaling the brand's local market entry in H1 2026. Featuring the "Leopard Aesthetic" design language, the L4 measures 4,406mm in length with a 2,700mm wheelbase, surpassing competitors like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross in interior space. Distinctive elements include a radiating chrome grille and 1.5-liter turbocharged engine (147 PS/225 Nm) paired with a six-speed DCT. The L4 and flagship L8 are slated for South African launch in March, with Malaysian introduction to follow.

Spy shots of the facelifted BMW M5 Touring have emerged, revealing significant front-end design changes for the mid-cycle update. The prototype features a flatter, wider kidney grille inspired by the classic E39 5 Series, paired with slim headlights and a prominent front splitter. Intelligent cockpit upgrades are anticipated, while powertrain options are expected to retain the 4.4T V8 plug-in hybrid system. The high-performance estate is slated for a spring 2027 debut with market launch later that year, signaling BMW M Division's return to classic design elements while maintaining electrified performance credentials in the luxury wagon segment.

Tesla Malaysia has commenced operations in East Malaysia with its first vehicle deliveries in Kuching, following a pop-up showroom launch at Vivacity Megamall. This Borneo expansion represents the brand's sixth local outlet, supplementing existing locations in the Klang Valley, Penang and Johor Bahru. Notably, no service centres or charging infrastructure are currently present in Sarawak. As of early 2026, Tesla operates 18 Supercharging stations (76 Superchargers) and 17 Destination Charging stations (79 connectors) nationwide. Despite the expiration of CBU tax exemptions, Tesla has maintained 2026 pricing and recently introduced the Model Y Premium RWD and Model 3 RWD (formerly Standard), with the latter becoming the most affordable Tesla in Malaysia at RM147,600.