Top auto news of the week: 2022 Honda HR-V launch date announced, 2022 Mazda CX-8 launched, MX-30 bookings open, and more

The Malaysian car showrooms must have enjoyed a great crowd this week, as these were the last few days for car buyers to take advantage of the sales tax exemption. Now, with the ending of the discount, the automakers have started issuing their new price lists that include SST. Besides that, a number of launches and reveals occurred during the week in the local and international markets. In case you've missed out on anything, check out a quick recap here.

2022 Mazda CX-8 launched: The all-new Mazda CX-8 made its way to Malaysia this week. The updated model comes with some meaningful upgrades, including the addition of a new 2.5 T High Plus AWD variant and a few cosmetic and significant tech enhancements. Pricing starts at RM 177,674 and goes up to RM 212,225.

2022 Mazda MX-30 bookings commenced: After a long wait, Bermaz Motor has finally started the MX-30 bookings. It is on offer in two variants - Mid and High, both powered by the same e-Skyactiv powertrain, comprising a 143 hp e-motor and a single-speed transmission. Differentiating the two is the level of equipment and features. The price starts at RM 198,780.

2022 Honda HR-V launch date announced: After holding special customer preview sessions for the new HR-V, Honda Malaysia is now set to launch the revamped model on July 14. Post that, the SUV will be on sale in four variants and three engine options.

2022 Perodua Alza teased again: Perodua continues to tease the upcoming second-gen Alza. In this week’s teasers, glimpses of the revamped MPV’s interior, as well as exterior, were shown. These include the new headlights, tail lights, front grille, wheels, electronic parking brake functionality, and red interior trimmings.

2022 Jaguar F-Pace launched: After introducing the new XF earlier this month, Jaguar Malaysia now launched the new F-Pace. The facelift model features cosmetic enhancements and a few additional cabin bits. It is available in a single 2.0L R-Dynamic, priced at RM 598,800.

Audi gets a new caretaker: PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) is the new official distributor of Audi cars in the country. Wholly owned by Porsche Holding Salzburg (PHS), it is set to oversee the brand’s wholesale, marketing, and after sales services in Malaysia.

2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 and A35 launched: Locally assembled at the brand’s Pekan facility, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLA 35 and A35 are now on sale in Malaysia. New for 2022 is a bigger mill and several AMG-specific performance gears with the GLA 35. The A35 sedan CKD, on the other hand, gets a few tech enhancements. 

2022 Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series launched: The all-new Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series has also arrived on the local shores at a whopping price tag of RM 3 million. However, the imported 13 units of this highly-exclusive supercar have already been booked by wealthy Malaysians.

Mercedes-Benz EQS previewed: The German auto brand also showcased its flagship EV sedan, the EQS, in Malaysia this week. Set for launch on July 22, the electric sedan’s registration of interest (ROI) page is also available on the brand’s official website. However, there is no information available on its specifications yet.

Limited edition BMW 218i Gran Coupe launched: The local BMW dealer Auto Bavaria has put on offer a limited edition BMW 218i Gran Coupe. For an exclusive touch, it comes with three special packages - Aesthetics, Signature Sound, and Best of Both Worlds. The price ranges between RM 227,800 and RM 233,800.

2022 Yamaha YZF-R15M launched: Yamaha has launched its new sports bike, the 2022 YZF-R15M, in Malaysia. Priced at RM 14,998, the bike is powered by a 155-cc liquid-cooled SOHC engine, which kicks out a maximum power of 19.04 hp and a peak torque of 14.7 Nm. Signature M and Monster Energy Edition are the two available colour choices.

International updates

2023 Kia Seltos revealed: The first official images of the upgraded Kia Seltos have been released by the automaker. The new compact SUV features a number of aesthetic changes inside and out. The full reveal will be held at the 2022 Busan International Motor Show in Korea this month.

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 broke cover: After the Ioniq 5, Hyundai has come forward with its next Ioniq model, called the Ioniq 6. Touted as the electrified streamline, the EV is based on the Prophecy concept revealed in 2020. It has an ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.21.

2022 Subaru Forester STI Sport unveiled: Subaru has introduced a new STI Sport trim of its top-selling Forester in Japan. It is based on the existing Sport trim and features a few cosmetic tweaks for a sportier appeal and new STI dampers for more dynamic handling.

Volkswagen ID. AERO revealed: Volkswagen has also revealed its first all-electric sedan concept, the ID. AERO for the Chinese market. Set to go on sale in 2023, the EV is powered by a powerful lithium-ion battery and offers a driving range of 620 km.

Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4 unveiled: The most awaited Lamborghini ever, the Countach LPI 800-4, also broke cover in Japan this week. It pays tribute to the original Countach and is limited to only 112 units.

That’s all for the week. Keep following Zigwheels Malaysia for more updates.

Also read: How safe are cars sold in Malaysia for below RM 99,000?