Top auto news of the week: 2022 Honda HR-V launched, next-gen Honda CR-V revealed, and more

This week, the Malaysian automotive industry was a bit quiet with just the highly-awaited HR-V launch as an important event. However, the global markets kept the show running smoothly with a bunch of new car launches, debuts, and teasers. If you have missed out to tune into ZigWheels Malaysia, check out our quick recap of the top handpicked auto news of the week.

2022 Honda HR-V launched: After previewing the new HR-V last month, Honda has finally launched the upgraded B-segment SUV in Malaysia. The Proton X50 rival is now available in four variants - S, Turbo E, Turbo V, and RS e:HEV, priced between RM 114,800 and RM 140,800. Among the available engine options are a 1.5L NA, 1.5L VTEC turbo, and a hybrid setup.

2022 Honda CBR150R Repsol Edition launched: Boon Siew Honda Sdn.Bhd has introduced a new variant for the CBR150R in Malaysia, the Repsol Edition. Decked up with Honda Racing Corporation MotoGP colours, the special version retails for RM13,499. It has a limited production run of 800 units.

2022 Perodua Alza teased again: This week, we enjoyed some more teasers of the upcoming Perodua Alza, which previews the comfort offered by the MPV’s rear conditioning vents and convenient ingress and egress by its low ride height.

2022 Toyota Veloz interior teased: We also get an interior glimpse of the Toyota Veloz, which is a sister model to the Alza. The teaser showcases the leather-wrapped steering wheel, 9-inch infotainment unit, and the blue ambient lighting of the upcoming MPV.

Isuzu Malaysia made a new sales record: The growing popularity of pickup trucks made it possible for Isuzu to make a sales record in Malaysia. The Japanese truck giant sold a total of 4,237 trucks in the first half of the year with a sparkling year-on-year growth of 143%. 

International updates

2023 Honda CR-V revealed: While we enjoyed the new HR-V launch this week, North America gets the all-new sixth-gen Honda CR-V. The latest model is completely revamped inside and out and loaded with more advanced technologies and a new two-motor hybrid engine. It will hit the US showrooms this summer, followed by other international markets.

Honda ZR-V revealed: Along with the new CR-V, Honda also introduced the new ZR-V this week. Set to hit the Japanese market next month, the ZR-V has so much in common with the US-spec HR-V, including exterior design, cabin layout, and features. 

Chery Omoda 5 launched in China: The Malaysian-bound Chery Omoda 5 compact SUV has finally hit the Chinese dealerships this week. It is on offer in seven variants - priced between RMB 92,900 (RM 61k) and RMB 128,900 (RM 85k). It is expected to arrive soon in Malaysia to rival the likes of the Honda HR-V and Proton X50.

Geely Radar RD6 revealed: The Chinese auto giant has introduced the world to its new brand called RADAR. The first model that came out under the new badge is the RD6 electric pickup truck, which targets young urban professionals who love to visit mountains and beaches on the weekends.

2022 Aprilia SR MAX 250 HPE introduced: This week, the Italian motorcycle brand Aprilia also introduced its new maxi-scooter, the SR MAX 250 HPE, in China. Based on the same platform as the SR MAX 300, the new model runs on a 244-cc, single-cylinder, fuel-injected engine making 25 hp and 21.6 Nm of torque.

Hyundai Ioniq 6 specs confirmed: After revealing the new Ioniq 6 last month, Hyundai has now confirmed its drivetrain specs. The EV will be offered in two battery sizes - 53.0 and 77.4-kWh mated either to a single motor or a dual-motor setup. In the top-spec form, the Ioniq 6 will offer a driving range of 610 km.

Hyundai new N models introduced: As part of its 2022 N Day, Hyundai unveiled two ‘rolling lab’ concepts - RN22e and N Vision 74. Based on the Ioniq 6, the former is a high-performance testbed for the brand’s E-GMP platform, whereas the latter is a hydrogen-powered coupe paying homage to the company’s 1974 Pony concept.

2023 Honda Civic Type R teased: While Honda has teased the new Civic Type R prototype a number of times in the past, it has now unveiled the first official shot of the road-ready version. The dark front view of the car previews the new LED headlights, a red Honda badge, and a Type R emblem on the redesigned grille. The full reveal will happen on July 20. 

2023 Kia XCeed design sketches unveiled: The design sketches of the all-new 2023 Kia XCeed were also revealed this week ahead of the debut. The crossover appears super stylish in the latest avatar and will now be powered by an electrified drivetrain.

2023 Porsche 911 GT3 R teased: We also get a glimpse of the redesigned Porsche 911 GT3 R race car in the form of some official images and a brief video clip. The latter teases the sound of the upcoming model as it lifts the jacks and rockets on the racing track.

That’s all for the week. Stay tuned with us for more updates on the auto industry.

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