Top automobile news of the week: Major car launches, limited-edition BMW & Honda bike, ‘Royal’ X50, & much much more

A lot has happened this week, especially in the Malaysian automobile market. With so many new launches it surely is an exciting time. Let’s check out the major happenings in the market this past week, followed by a few international news.

All-new 2022 Ford Ranger launch: The new Ranger has finally made its Malaysian debut. The stunning Ford pickup is offered in seven variant options namely, XL MT, XL AT, XLT MT, XLT AT, XLT Plus, and WildTrak. With a price range of RM 108,888 to RM 168,888; the Ranger is available in two engine choices - 170hp/405Nm 2.0-litre single-turbo and 210hp/500Nm 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel powertrains.

2022 Mercedes-Benz EBQ350 4MATIC launch: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launched three EQ models in the country this week, one of which is the EQB350 4MATIC with an estimated starting price tag of RM 330,000. The seven-seater SUV is powered by a dual-motor that pumps out a maximum power of 292 PS and 520 Nm of torque. The EV can do a 0-100 kmph sprint in 6.2 seconds and attain a max speed of 160 kmph.

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQC400 AMG Line 4MATIC launch: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia line-up now includes the first-ever, fully-electric EQC. With an estimated price tag of RM 390,000, the EQC400 AMG Line 4MATIC is the first fully electric production car by the automaker. The car’s two-motor setup makes 408hp and 760 Nm of torque and it helps the EV complete the century sprint in 5.1 seconds and max out at 180 kmph.

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS450+ launch: Malaysia now has the first-ever, fully-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS in the EQS450+ version. Priced at RM 698,888 this EV comes with a single e-motor powered by a 107.9kWh lithium-ion battery. On the performance front, the e-motor makes 333hp and 565 Nm; 0-100 kmph: 6.2 sec; top speed: 210 kmph, range: 782 km.

2022 Perodua Alza launch: One of the major launches of the week and probably the quarter is Perodua’s MPV, the Alza. Based on the Toyota Avanza, the new Alza is offered in three variant options - X, H, and AV. With its price starting from RM 68,000 and going all the way up to RM 75,500; all the trims are powered by the same naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine generating 105 hp and 138 Nm of torque.

Limited-edition BMW 320i M Sport & 330i M Sport unveiled: This week BMW Malaysia unveiled two limited-run special edition models - the 320i M Sport and 330i M Sport. The two feature several new features and are locally-assembled. With a two-year standard warranty, the 320i M Sport and 330i M Sport are priced at RM 262,800 and RM 304,800 respectively. Powering the two limited-edition BMWs is a 2.0-litre inline-four turbo engine making 184 hp/300 Nm on the 320i and 258/400 Nm on the 330i. The transmission option remains common with the 8-speed automatic gearbox.

Custom one-off Proton X50: Proton’s special devison, the Automotive Conversion Engineering (ACE) has customised a X50 for HRH Tengku Laksamana Selangor Tengku Sulaiman Shah Al-Haj Ibni Almarhum Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Alha. Decked up in bright golden paint with distinctive twin black strips, the car is fit for royalty.

Indian Motorcycles Malaysia announces provisional prices for two models: Indian Motorcycles has announced provisional prices for the Indian FTR1200 and Indian FTR1200 S Race Replica. They are priced at RM 125,000 and RM 145,000 respectively. The two motorcycles are expected to launch in November this year with booking currently open.

2022 Yamaha NMax gets new colour options: Yamaha Malaysia is offering the 2022 NMax in two striking colours - Matte Green and Matte Blue. Priced at RM 9,498, the new NMax is powered by a 155cc single-cylinder SOHC VVA engine making a maximum power of 14.9 hp and a peak torque of 14.4 Nm.

International updates

All-new Honda Civic Type R unveiled: Celebrating its iconic hot hatch 25 years of existence in the auto industry, Honda has unveiled the new City Type R which showcases a more matured look compared to its predecessor. On the outside, it showcases a big rear wing, vented bonnet, large wheels, red Honda badge, 19-inch matte black alloys, and Type R-exclusive Historic Championship White hue. On the inside, the car features Type R’s signature red trims on the seat and carpet. It is powered by the tried and tested 2.0-litre inline-four turbo engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.

2023 Porsche Taycan gets a software update: Porsche has announced a new software update for the 2023 Taycan. The said update will not only enhance the car’s performance but will also improve its charging efficiency and comfort levels. In case you are wondering, the update is completely free of charge.

All-new Nissan X-Trail launched in Japan: Nissan introduced the 4th gen X-Trail in Japan. The car features a new design language, redesigned platform, and high levels of cabin quietness. Powering it is a 2nd gen e-Power hybrid system with a petrol mill (serves as a generator to produce electricity). Its specs kit includes - Nissan Safety Assist 360, adaptive LED headlights, 12.3-inch Advanced Driver Assist display, Bose premium sound system, a 10.8-inch head-up display and more.

New Suzuki Grand Vitara unveiled: The all-new Suzuki Vitara SUV was unveiled in India this week. Conceptualized, developed, and designed by Suzuki, it will be manufactured in India.
Developed as a global flagship SUV, it showcases the best of the brand's work, be it design, tech, or performance.

Porsche 911 GT2 RS Clubsport sold out: Built in collaboration with Manthey Racing, the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport 25 celebrates the team’s 25th anniversary. Limited to only 30 units, the car is now completely sold out. Powering it is a 3.8-litre twin-turbo flat-six flat-six engine making a maximum power output of 690 bhp. The drive is sent to the rear wheels via a 7-speed PDK box.

That’s all for now. Stay tuned with Zigwheels for the latest updates on local and international auto & motor-related news.

Also Read: 2022 Perodua Alza: Buy or skip?