Weekly wrap-up: 2023 Mazda 3 facelift, 2023 Mazda 6, 2023 BMW X1 CKD launched, Second-gen BMW X2 revealed, and more

This week has been quite busy for the Malaysian automotive industry, as it received several new models, including - the 2023 Mazda 3 facelift, 2023 Mazda 6, and 2023 BMW X1 sDrive20i xLine. The two-wheeler segment welcomed the limited-edition 2023 Yamaha YZF-R15M Monster Energy, whereas the commercial vehicle space received new UD trucks - Quester and Croner. In the meantime, the global industry also witnessed the unveiling of several exciting models. Here’s a quick recap of all the major happenings of the week.

Local news

2023 Mazda 3 facelift launched

Bermaz Motor has launched the 2023 Mazda 3 in Malaysia. The latest version of the car is offered in both sedan and hatchback (aka Liftback) body styles, priced between RM 156,059 and RM 175,059. It benefits from several advanced technology features, including a 10.25-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay, Qi wireless charging pad, USB-C ports, 12-speaker Bose sound system, updated Mazda Radar Cruise Control, and Cruising & Traffic Support. The new Mazda 3 is powered by a 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G, DOHC, 16-valve, VVT engine, which is good for making 162 hp of maximum power and 213 Nm of peak torque.

2023 Mazda 6 launched

The all-new 2023 Mazda 6 has also made its way to the local market in three versions - 2.0L Sedan, 2.5L Touring, and a new 2.5L 20th Anniversary Edition. The price begins at RM 180,359 and goes all the way to RM 240,848. Depending on the variant picked, the new Mazda 6 comes kitted with an 8.0-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay, 4 USB ports, a wireless charging system, an 11-speaker Bose audio system, a 360-degree surround view camera, and new i-Activsense safety features. The Mazda 6 20th Anniversary Edition comes with unique styling and an exclusive Artisan Red Premium exterior shade.

Locally-assembled BMW X1 sDrive20i xLine up for grabs

BMW Malaysia has rolled out the locally assembled X1, priced at RM 238,900 (on the road without insurance). The latest model sports a large kidney grille with high-gloss black slats, new slender wraparound adaptive LED headlights, xLine bumpers, and new 19-inch light alloy wheels. The updated cabin is kitted with a new BMW Curved Display comprising a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 10.7-inch central touchscreen display, powered by the BMW Operating System 8. Under the hood lies a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder Twin Power Turbo delivering 204 PS and 300 Nm of torque.

2023 Yamaha YZF-R15M Monster Energy Edition arrived

Hong Leong Yamaha Motor has launched the all-new Yamaha YZF-R15M Monster Energy Edition in Malaysia. Priced at RM14,998, the special edition model is offered in a limited quantity of 600 units. It features the new Monster Energy drink livery in Yamaha’s M racing colours and is powered by a 155 cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, SOHC, variable valve actuation engine capable of generating 19.04 hp of power and 14.7 Nm of torque.

New Euro 5 Quester and Croner revealed

UD Trucks and TCIE have unveiled the new Euro 5 heavy-duty Quester and medium-duty Croner in Malaysia. The upgrade includes new features that will improve uptime and efficiency, and optimise the total cost of ownership, all while lowering the vehicle’s environmental impact. The new Quester and Croner are UD Trucks’ first models designed specifically for markets outside of Japan. 

UMW Toyota September 2023 sales report released

UMW Toyota has revealed its September 2023 sales report. In the previous month, the Japanese automaker managed to sell a total of 9,228 units (9,020 Toyota and 208 Lexus). With this, the brand’s year-to-date sales reached 76,511 units. In comparison to the first nine months of the last year, it represents a growth of 8.0%.

Bang & Olufsen Ferrari Collection in Malaysia

Bang & Olufsen has introduced the Ferrari Collection in Malaysia. This collection is the outcome of a collaboration between the Danish audio specialist and the renowned Italian automaker. The line-up includes the Beosound 2 Home Speaker, Beoplay H95 wireless headphone, Beoplay EX wireless earphones, and Beosound Explore portable speaker.

International news

Toyota Crown Sport SUV debuts In Japan

Toyota has pulled the wraps off an all-new five-seater SUV in Japan, called the Crown Sport. It is offered in a sole Sport Z trim, priced at JPY 5,900,000 (approx RM 187k). The SUV features a “hammerhead shark look” with a double-layered nose, C-shaped LED daytime running lights, and 21-inch tyres and aluminium wheels. The interior offers a luxury feel with premium finishes and dual 12.3-inch displays.

2024 BMW X2 and iX2 made their official debut

BMW has introduced the second-gen X2 in the global market along with its electric version, the iX2. The latest model has grown in size and boasts fresh styling inside and out and multiple new technologies, including the latest BMW Operating System 9. The non-electric model will be available in three drivetrains globally, including a 2.0-litre Inline-4 turbo diesel, a 1.5-litre Inline-3 Turbo MHEV, and a 2.0-litre inline-4 turbo. The all-electric BMW iX2 is equipped with a 313 hp/494 Nm dual motor setup and a 64.8-kWh battery pack offering a driving range of up to 449 km (on the WLTP cycle).

Kia EV3, EV4, and EV5 electric cars unveiled

Kia unveiled three new electric models at its recently held annual EV Day in Korea, including the Kia EV5, the Kia EV4, and the Kia EV3. The Kia EV5 is a compact electric SUV, which underpins the brand’s dedicated EV platform, E-GMP, and introduces a new era of electric mobility. The production of the new EV5 will take place in both China and Korea. The Kia Concept EV4 is a Cerato-sized electric sedan that boasts a futuristic exterior design and a minimalist interior whereas the new Kia Concept EV3 is a “Compact CUV”, that aims to deliver the EV9's benefits in a compact form.

2024 Isuzu D-Max gets an upgrade in Thailand

The Isuzu D-Max has received an upgrade in the Thai market. The latest pickup truck sports a sleeker-looking front end, new 18-inch alloy wheels, and a new exterior colour i.e. Namibu Orange Mica. Dimensionally, the new D-Max is 15 mm longer and 5 kg heavier. The powertrain choices include - a 1.9-litre turbo diesel producing 150 hp and 350 Nm and a 3.0-litre turbo diesel with a rated output of 190 hp and 450 Nm. The pickup is offered in both single-cab and double-cab configurations, priced between THB 917,000 (RM 116k) and THB1,257,000 (RM 163k).

Mitsubishi’s new electrified MPV concept teased

Mitsubishi aims at showcasing a slew of new off-road concept vehicles at the upcoming 2023 Japan Mobility Show. One of them is an ‘electrified crossover MPV concept car’ that looks like the Delica MPV. According to Mitsubishi, the upcoming concept combines SUV and MPV features for eco-friendly adventures with a roomy cabin and good driving performance.

That’s all for the week. For further updates, stay tuned with us.

Also read: 7 Upcoming electric cars in Malaysia 2023-2024