Top auto news of the week: 2023 BMW X1 teased, Mercedes-Benz E-Class Night Edition revealed and more

This week, we did not see much momentum in the Malaysian automotive industry, with just a few updates from the two-wheeler category. However, the global markets enjoyed some special edition cars and new teasers at the same time. Check out all the major happenings of the whole week in this detailed report.

2022 QJMotor SRK600 bookings open: The sole distributor of QJMotor motorcycles in Malaysia, MForce Bike Holdings Sdn, introduced the SRK 600 street sportbike this week. Bookings of this new hunk are now underway at a price of RM 35,888 (excluding road tax, insurance and registration).

Two Suzuki quarter-litre models confirmed: Suzuki Malaysia has confirmed the arrival of two new motorcycles in 2023. These are the popular Gixxer SF 250 and Gixxer 250, powered by a 249-cc four-stroke, single-cylinder engine delivering 26.5 PS and 22.2 Nm of torque.

Porsche Taycan's waiting period extends up to 13 months: Those who are willing to buy the new Porsche Taycan will have to wait over a year. And the reason for this extra-long waiting period is none other than the shortage of parts required for the production.

Ducati bikes price update: Ducati Malaysia announced the updated price list for 2022. Almost all Ducati models have become costlier due to increased material, logistics and production costs. You can check the new prices here.

International Updates 

2023 BMW X1 first teaser out: The first official teaser of the next-gen BMW X1 was also released this week. Set to make its debut this year, the upcoming X1 is likely to get comprehensive exterior and interior design upgrades along with new powertrain options.

McLaren NFT Drop: McLaren is launching its first rare and ultra-exclusive NFT drop on May 11. This is an ultra-limited-edition "Genesis Collection" featuring the brand's iconic P1 car. It will offer 2,012 NFTs of the McLaren P1 and P1 GTR supercars. 

Bentley's upcoming model teased again: Bentley once again teased its upcoming model via a short video showing the car's fancy purple door panel and Airline Seats. The latter will have a 22-way adjustment and advanced postural adjustment tech. The car will be unveiled on May 10.

Ferrari confirms the new V12 engine: When all the automakers are embracing electrification, Ferrari is planning to roll out the brand new V12 engine. The new mill is expected to power the brand's upcoming Purosangue SUV.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Night Edition: Mercedes-Benz has introduced the E-Class Night Edition for European markets in Coupe and Cabriolet versions. The special model looks meaner and unique, with several dark trim accents inside out. One can grab it by paying an extra cost of €5,295 to €9,222 (RM 24,238 to 42,215).

Land Rover Defender 30th Anniversary Edition: Land Rover has revealed the Defender 30th Anniversary Edition exclusively for the North American market. Based on the Defender 110 S, the special SUV pays tribute to the 1993 Defender 110 First Edition. Its quantity is limited to 500 units.

Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO2 unveiled: Lamborghini added one more exclusive variant to the Huracan lineup called the GT3 EVO2. It shares vital design aspects and mechanical setup with the Huracan STO. Its deliveries will begin in the second half of 2022.

GasGas on-road bikes revealed: The Spanish off-road motorcycle brand, GasGas (owned by KTM) has finally unveiled its first set of on-road bikes. These include a big-bore Supermoto called SM 700 and a dual-sport motorcycle named ES 700. Both are equipped with KTM's 692-cc big-bore single-cylinder engine.

That's all for the week. Stay tuned with Zigwheels Malaysia for all the latest industry updates.

Also read: 10 New cars, SUVs to launch in Malaysia this year