Top auto news of the week: 2022 Perodua Alza, Toyota Veloz bookings open, 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300e launched and more

At the start of the week, the government announced the expiry of the SST rebate with a midpoint solution benefitting the consumers as well as the government. This was followed by a significant spike in bookings by the customers looking to save some cash. Perodua and Toyota also took it as an opportunity and opened the bookings for their highly-awaited MPVs. Here are all the major happenings from last week that you may have missed out on -

2022 Perodua Alza bookings open: Perodua has finally opened the ordering bookings for the second-gen Alza that is based on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture. The upgraded MPV is on offer in three variants - X, H and AV, powered by a new 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine. The tentative price starts at RM 62,000 and goes all the way up to RM 75,000 (without insurance and pre-sales tax).

Also read: 7 Interesting features of the 2022 Perodua Alza you should know

2022 Toyota Veloz bookings open: UMW Toyota has also started accepting the reservations for the new Veloz, replacing the long-running Avanza. Compared to the predecessor, It is said to be bigger, bolder, and better and promises better driving performance with the new front-wheel-drive platform. It is on offer in a sole 1.5 A/T trim estimatedly priced at RM95k (on-the-road, excluding sales and service tax and insurance). 

2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e launched: The locally-assembled plug-in hybrid X5 xDrive45e M Sport received an update in Malaysia. Among the new features are BMW Laserlight headlights, rear side airbags, larger alloy wheels, and an Active Protection safety gear. On account of the updates, the price of the SUV has increased to RM 457,498.

2022 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300e launched: After teasing the plug-in hybrid GLC twice, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has finally launched the GLC 300e coupe this week. Priced at RM 374,074, the electrified model is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol mill, an electric motor, and a 13.5-kWh battery pack. Rest all the specs are almost identical to the 300 Coupe 4Matic.

Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 gets an update: Along with the new GLC 300e, Mercedes-Benz also pulled the wraps off the updated GLB 35. The latest version differentiates itself from the predecessor with a new AMG Performance steering wheel, 360-degree camera system, an MBUX Interior Assistant, and a surround lighting system. It is priced at RM 392,582. 

New Mercedes-Benz Autohaus store launched: Hap Seng Star Group launched a new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus store in Setia Alam this week. This 7-storey facility offers you sales, servicing, and a number of other modern amenities like a self-service cafe, a luxurious ladies powder room and more.

BMW Malaysia's i Charging prices announced: This week, BMW Malaysia also confirmed the updated pay-per-use pricing structure for paid ChargEV members. One can become a ChargEV member by paying RM 240 annually and get the benefits of preferential charging rates and complimentary access to all AC Charging stations nationwide.

International updates

2023 Honda CR-V interior teased: Honda US dropped another teaser for the 2023 CR-V, which previews the upcoming SUV's interior. Set to make its debut next month, the new CR-V will feature an upmarket cabin with new premium craftsmanship and touches and new technologies like a new freestanding infotainment unit, a new instrument panel, and Qi wireless charger, etc.

2023 Peugeot 408 revealed: Peugeot also introduced its funky and electric crossover in the global market this week. Dubbed as the 408, the latest model underpins the Stellantis' EMP2 platform and the hottest design trend of the moment. It is expected to launch in Europe next year with three engine options (one petrol and two PHEVs).

BMW M3 Touring broke cover: To take on the likes of the Mercedes-AMG C63 and Audi RS4 Avant, BMW has revealed the all-new M3 Touring in the international market. The car is based on the M3 xDrive Competition saloon and underpins the same 3.0-litre straight-six mill, automatic transmission and AWD system. It will first go on sale in the UK and Germany.

Vauxhall Corsa-e Anniversary Edition unveiled: To mark the completion of its 40 years in the automotive industry, Vauxhall introduced the Corsa-e Anniversary Edition this week. Priced at £31,000 (RM 167,806), the production of this special model is limited to just 100 units to be sold exclusively in the UK.

Ford Focus to be discontinued: After discontinuing the Ford Mondeo, the American automaker is now set to end the production of the long-running Focus in Europe. As per the reports, the model will be discontinued in 2025 due to a shift towards crossover over conventional body styles.

That's all for now. Stay tuned with us for all the important industry updates.

Also read: Buy the Toyota Corolla Cross or book the 2023 Honda HR-V?