Top auto news of the week: Proton X90 revealed, Jaguar I-Pace, New Audi RS3 Sedan launched, Volkswagen Golf GTI updated, and more

The past week continued the busy momentum in the Malaysian automotive industry with one marque event following another. On one hand, Proton finally unleashed its highly-anticipated three-row SUV, while on the other hand, Jaguar brought its first performance EV to local shores after a long wait. In the meantime, a couple of big unveilings and announcements remain in the headlines in the global market. If you have missed tuning into ZigWheels, we've got you covered in our weekly wrap of top auto news.

Proton X90 revealed: Proton’s third X-series SUV, the X90, has finally come out of the bag. It is a three-row SUV powered by a mild-hybrid system, which comprises a 1.5-litre TGDi engine and an innovative 48V Electric Motor Synergy (EMS) System. The SUV will be offered in four variants - Standard, Executive, Premium, and Flagship with the top-spec version configurable in either a 6- or 7-seater layout. The preview sessions of the X90 will run across six cities commencing on 8 April 2023.

Jaguar I-Pace launched: Jaguar I-Pace, the EV that has more than 80 global awards under its belt has finally arrived on the local shores. It is offered in two versions - Black LE and HSE, priced at RM 460,800 and RM 498,800, respectively. Both are powered by the same Jaguar-designed dual-motor setup generating a total output of 400 PS and a peak torque of 696 Nm. The motors come mated to a 90-kWh battery pack, offering a WLTP-claimed range of 470 km on a single charge.

2023 Audi RS3 Sedan launched: PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), the official distributor of Audi cars in Malaysia, launched the all-new RS3 Sedan this week. Priced at RM 646,990, the power-packed model comes equipped with an award-winning 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine making 400 PS and 500 Nm of torque. It comes with an RS Torque Splitter, RS Torque Rear drive mode, and lots of other RS-specific features.

Updated Volkswagen Golf GTI goes on sale: Volkswagen has updated the beloved Golf GTI hatchback in Malaysia. It gains Volkswagen IQ. Drive ADAS pack, refreshed fog lights on the front, power-adjustable and heated side mirrors, a new wireless charging pad, and an additional centre airbag. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia retails the updated version at RM 246,012.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC teased: Mercedes-Benz is set to bring a new model to our shores next week and has teased its first official glimpse. The upcoming model is expected to be the all-new second-generation GLC that made its global debut last year in June. The revamped SUV features a sleeker and cleaner look, the latest tech, and a full lineup of hybrid propulsions. Here’s what you can expect from the upcoming GLC.

Neta EVs coming to Malaysia: Another Chinese EV brand that is ready to cause a stir in the local electric vehicle space is ‘NETA’. Owned by Zhejiang-based Hozon Auto, the automaker has launched Neta Auto Malaysia’s website and social media pages. It currently offers three EVs in the home market viz - Neta V, Neta S, and Neta U-II. Of these, the Neta V was recently showcased in Thailand where it will be offered at a starting price of THB 549,000 (approx RM 71k). Regarding its launch timeline in Malaysia, nothing is confirmed yet.

2023 Lexus RX launch expected soon: Earmarked to launch in Malaysia this year, the all-new Lexus RX may come as soon as May as reported by one of the brand’s dealers. It is also reported to come in two variants - RX350 Luxury and RX500h F Sport. The tentative price tag of the former ranges from RM 470k to RM 480k, while the latter is estimated to cost around RM 510k - RM 520k.

International news

Lamborghini Revuelto debuts: Lamborghini has pulled the wraps off the all-new Revuelto. It replaces the 12-year Aventador and comes powered by the world’s first plug-in hybrid V12 engine. That comprises a new naturally aspirated V12 mill coupled with three electric motors and a 3.8-kWh lithium-ion battery. The combined output stands at 825 hp and 725 Nm and the century sprint completion time is just 2.5 seconds. The new Revuelto boasts a sharp and edgy exterior and comes loaded with Lamborghini-first advanced driver assistance systems.

2023 Renault Espace revealed: The latest iteration of Renault’s popular MPV, the Espace, also saw the light of the day this week. The new sixth-generation Espace is a long-wheelbase version of the Renault Austral and can be configured in both 5- and 7-seat seating layouts. It is offered in two electrified hybrid powertrain options, including 1.2-litre turbocharged and 1.3-litre turbocharged combustion mills.

2024 Hyundai Sonata facelift unveiled: Hyundai’s D-segment sedan, the Sonata, has received an update in the home market. The latest model features several cosmetic tweaks inside and out and an updated equipment kit, including a BMW-like curved display. The revamped Sonata will soon go on sale in South Korea in both Standard and N-Line variants.

Kia EV9 specs revealed: After releasing the exterior and interior images of the EV9 almost two weeks ago, Kia announced its detailed specifications this week. The brand’s flagship EV comes in both a single and dual electric motor setup paired with either a 76.1-kWh or 99.8-kWh battery pack, offering an estimated driving range of 541 kilometres. 

That’s all for the week. For further updates on the automotive industry, keep reading Zigwheels Malaysia.

Also read: Jaguar I-Pace & its impressive in-car tech