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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.

Mercedes-AMG has acknowledged its four-cylinder downsizing strategy as a mistake, launching the new GLC53 to replace both GLC43 and GLC63 variants. Powered by the CLE53-sourced M256M 3.0-litre inline-six producing 449 PS and 600 Nm, paired with a 48V ISG mild-hybrid system, the SUV accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. The key attraction is the "powerful, sonorous" exhaust note, augmented by optional AMG Real Performance Sound. Standard AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive features rear-biased torque distribution and Drift mode with the Dynamic Plus Package. A limited Golden Accents launch edition debuts Obsidian Black with techgold detailing.

Zeekr Malaysia has announced its 2026 product roadmap featuring three new models: a compact luxury SUV (expected facelifted Zeekr X), a luxury MPV (likely the Zeekr 009 Grand Collection four-seat executive variant with 43-inch rear entertainment screen and dual Snapdragon 8295 chips), and the flagship Zeekr 9X ultra-luxury range-extended electric SUV. The 9X, dubbed "China's Rolls-Royce Cullinan," offers dual-motor (897 PS) and tri-motor Hyper (1,400 PS) variants, with 55/70 kWh batteries paired to a 2.0T range-extender delivering up to 1,250 km CLTC range. The flagship features 900V architecture with 6C ultra-fast charging (20-80% in 9 minutes) and G-Pilot H9 autonomous driving system with five LiDAR sensors.

Zeekr Malaysia has confirmed local assembly (CKD) of the Zeekr 7X electric SUV, establishing Malaysia as the brand's first overseas production hub outside China. Managing Director Lu Jiamin emphasized this strategic move demonstrates Zeekr's long-term commitment to the market. The CKD operation will enhance supply chain integration, pricing competitiveness, and delivery efficiency. Zeekr targets cumulative sales of 10,000 units between 2025-2027, with an annual sales goal of 10,000 units from 2028 onwards. The brand plans to expand its network to 18 showrooms, 12 service centers, and 9 body and paint shops to support the local assembly initiative.

Honda has announced organisational changes effective April 1, 2026, to sharpen its response to a rapidly evolving global automotive landscape. Honda R&D Co. will absorb Automobile Development Operations and the SDV Business Development Unit, creating an integrated flow from technology selection through market launch. Automobile Operations will reorganise into new Business Strategy and Regional Business Units, dissolving the current SDV unit. Additionally, Motorcycle and Power Products Operations will merge electric and ICE model functions across sales, strategy and product development to optimise resource allocation and enhance mid- to long-term competitiveness and profitability.

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.