Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 Returns to Australian Market at AUD$89,000
2025/03/12
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Paul Tan
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Leapmotor B03 Launching August 10, International Version of A05 with 510 km Range
Leapmotor has launched the all-new B03, essentially the international version of the A05, with the brand recently restructuring its naming strategy. As a B-segment electric hatchback targeting global markets, the B03 will open bookings in China on August 10. Visually, it's essentially the B03X (known as A10X in China) without raised ride height and black plastic wheel arch claddings. Two powertrain variants are offered: the base model produces 95 PS (70 kW) with 405 km range, while the higher-end variant delivers 122 PS (90 kW) and 510 km, both on the CLTC cycle using 39.8 kWh and 53 kWh LFP batteries. The interior mirrors the B03X almost identically, featuring an 8.88-inch instrument display, 14.6-inch central touchscreen, pill-shaped air vents, a robot mascot, and a fold-flat front passenger seat. All but the base model get Level 2 driver assists, while top variants gain lidar and highly autonomous driving. Given the B03X is already confirmed for Malaysia, the B03 could reach overseas markets soon.
Proton eMAS 5 Launches in Nepal, Starting from RM81,000 After Early Bird Discount
Proton's eMAS 5 has officially launched in Nepal through local partner Kathmandu by Jagdanda Motors, becoming the second Proton EV sold in the country after the eMAS 7 in March. Two variants are offered: the Prime with a rear motor producing 79 PS and 130 Nm, 30.12 kWh battery, and 225 km WLTP range; and the Premium upgraded to 116 PS and 150 Nm with a 40.16 kWh battery delivering 325 km range. Official pricing is NPR 3.5 million (approx. RM94,300) for Prime and NPR 4 million (approx. RM108,000) for Premium. Early bird discounts bring prices down to NPR 3 million (approx. RM81,000) and NPR 3.5 million respectively. The vehicles are imported from Malaysia.
XPeng G9L Official Images Released, Global Flagship SUV Slated for Malaysia
XPeng has released official images of the G9L, its new flagship SUV to replace the original G9 launched in 2022. Based on the GX's design language with smoother lines, it features connected LED light strips (480 LED sources), hidden window frames, and pop-out door handles. Dimensions measure 5120/1999/1782mm with a 3,100mm wheelbase, positioning it as a full-size five-seater competing against the Zeekr 9X. Interior features include AI-adjusting seats with 91 pressure sensors per seat, a car refrigerator, and a 33-speaker audio system. Two powertrains are offered: pure EV with RWD (367 PS) and AWD (585 PS), CLTC range 672-805 km, 800V platform enabling 450 km in 9 minutes of DC charging; and the PowerX extended-range variant with a 1.5L turbo engine as generator. It debuts the VLA 2.0 AI driving system, planned for global rollout including Malaysia. Developed from inception for global export, the G9L is highly likely to be the large SUV Bermaz Auto confirmed importing in the second half of this year.
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Mazda NE Next-Gen MX-5 to Offer Pure EV Option, Drawing from Iconic SP Concept
Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro has revealed that the next-generation MX-5, internally codenamed NE, will offer a pure electric version alongside a possible hybrid variant. The hybrid could pair a new 2.5L Skyactiv-Z engine. To prepare for potential future bans on internal combustion engines in some markets, Mazda is electrifying the MX-5 while maintaining its lightweight philosophy, targeting under 1,200 kg without relying on expensive composite materials. In terms of design, the new MX-5 will heavily draw from the Iconic SP concept unveiled in 2023. Additionally, Mazda plans to create a flagship sports car positioned above the MX-5, potentially hand-built to reinforce the brand's image.
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Spy Shots Reveal Redesigned Mercedes-Benz C-Class for China, New Grille and Plug-in Hybrid Powertrain
Spy shots have emerged showing a redesigned Mercedes-Benz C-Class testing in China. The new model features a larger shield-shaped grille with three-pointed star motifs and horizontal chrome trim, aligning with Mercedes' latest design language. The headlights and taillights also incorporate the signature three-pointed star elements. The test mule is a plug-in hybrid variant, with the current C 350 e L priced at 408,800 yuan as a reference. Official launch timing remains undisclosed.
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2026 Kia Carnival Facelift Launches in Malaysia with Three Seating Configurations
The 2026 Kia Carnival has launched in Malaysia offering seven, eight, and 11-seat configurations at RM248,888, RM238,888, and RM188,888 respectively. The top-spec seven-seater features a 2-2-3 layout with second-row captain seats, 12 Bose speakers, 19-inch alloys, and ADAS. The eight-seater uses a 2-3-3 layout with detachable and slidable middle-row seats. The 11-seater adopts a 2-3-3-3 arrangement. All variants share a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and touchscreen, eight airbags, three-zone climate control, and 360-degree camera. Power comes from a 2.2L Smartstream turbodiesel producing 199 PS and 440 Nm, mated to an eight-speed auto with a claimed WLTP range of 900 km and combined fuel consumption of 6.5 L/100 km. Kia Malaysia Unity Rewards offers up to RM25,000 in benefits including cash rebate, eight years' free servicing, seven-year warranty, and free first-year insurance for registrations by August 31.