Top auto news of the week: Toyota Veloz, Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid launched, Rolls Royce Spectre revealed, and more

The Malaysian auto arena was quite busy this week with the launch of the highly-anticipated Veloz, followed by the introduction of the Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid and BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport. In the meantime, the global platform also witnessed several big unveilings and snippets about upcoming models. Here, we bring a quick recap of all the top auto news that stole the spotlight during the week.

Toyota Veloz launched: UMW Toyota has finally launched the highly-anticipated Veloz MPV this week. Known as the upmarket twin of the new Perodua Alza, the Veloz is offered in a single trim in the local market, priced at RM 95k. The seven-seater car comes with a bold and sporty exterior, a 1.5-litre VVT-i engine, a tech-laden cabin, and the advanced Toyota Safety Sense suite.

Also read: Check out the new Toyota Veloz in these detailed images

2022 Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid arrived: Bentley’s second electrified model, the Flying Spur Hybrid, has also made its Malaysian debut this week. Priced at RM 945,000 (without taxes and duties), the luxury vehicle is powered by a 2.9-litre V6 mill paired with an electric motor, combinedly generating 544 hp and 750 Nm.

2022 BMW xDrive40i M Sport now on sale: BMW now offers not one but two variants of the X7 SUV in Malaysia. The newly added trim is called the X7 xDrive40i M Sport, which is priced at RM 728,800 (with an extended warranty). I.e. RM 20k pricier than the Design Pure Excellence variant. The M Sport model comes equipped with the M Aerodynamics package, M Sport brakes, M Sport steering wheel and more.

Extended warranty for used Proton cars: Proton announced a one-year extended warranty for its Certified Pre-Owned cars retailed through its authorised used car outlets. Underwritten by Allianz General Insurance, the extended warranty covers the engine parts and transmission found defective under normal wear and tear for the first 25,000 km or 12 months.

2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R special preview: Kawasaki Malaysia is previewing the upcoming Ninja ZX-25R at Sepang International Circuit. Among the key highlights of the quarter-litre screamer are a race-inspired Trellis frame, 249-cc inline-four DOHC engine, advanced ride-enhancing techs, and Dunlop GPR300 radial tyres. The bike will hit the local roads next year.

New ELW plans for Mercedes-Benz cars: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has rolled out an upgraded Extended Limited Warranty (ELW) programme offering extended warranties for the fifth and sixth years. Two different types of plans offered under the programme are Essential and Comprehensive. These can be bought at a price ranging between RM 1,488 and RM 17,888.

Malaysia Motor Expo 2022 dates announced: With all pomp and show, the Malaysia Motor Expo is set to make a return this year. The event will be held from 11 Nov to 13 Nov, 2022 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. 

International updates

2024 Rolls Royce Spectre broke cover: One of the most exciting highlights of the international auto industry this week was the Rolls Royce Spectre reveal. This ultra-luxury electric super coupe is a two-door fastback model inspired by the Phantom. It features the brand’s rich heritage combined with modern EV-specific touches, including the brand’s widest front grille ever, new Spirit of Ecstasy, Starlight Headliner, 23-inch wheels, new ‘Spirit’ digital software and more. It will hit the roads in Q4 2023.

2024 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV made its debut: The new model of the Mercedes-Benz fast-growing EV segment is the EQE SUV. It underpins the brand’s dedicated new EV platform and will initially be offered in three different variants - EQE 350+, EQE 350 4MATIC, and EQE 500 4MATIC. A high-performance AMG model will join the lineup in 2024.

2023 Hyundai Grandeur revealed: Hyundai has introduced the seven-generation Grandeur, known as ‘Azera’ in markets outside Korea. The upgraded sedan benefits from several cosmetic enhancements with new front fascia reminiscent of the Staria MPV. While the interior design gets a major departure from the sixth-gen version, the technical specifications of the new Grandeur have not yet been confirmed.

Renault 4EVer Trophy EV concept unveiled: After Renault 5 EV prototype, the French automaker has come up with yet another electric concept, called the 4EVer Trophy. Based on the Renault 4, the EV is fitted with an aggressive off-road-themed body kit and powered by a 134-hp electric motor and a 42-kWh NMC battery pack. It will hit the roads in 2025.

Mitsubishi XFC concept introduced: Mitsubishi has unveiled a new B-segment SUV concept in Vietnam, called the XFC. Earmarked for ASEAN markets, the SUV is based on a muscular design language with chunky bumpers, claddings, and bulging arches. It will rival the likes of the Kia Seltos, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Creta and Mazda CX-3.

Mazda CX-60 made its Australian debut: After launching the all–new CX-60 in the home market, Mazda has now introduced the SUV in Australia. Set to launch early next year, the SUV will be offered in three variants - Evolve, GT, and Azami in the Land Down Under. No information as to when the CX-60 will come to Malaysia is available yet.

That’s all for the week. For more local and international auto updates, stay tuned to Zigwheels Malaysia.

Also read: Top 5 luxurious seven-seater in Malaysia