Weekly wrap-up: 2026 Honda Prelude previewed, Toyota Yaris Cross teased, KLIMS 2026 tickets now available, and more

This week was full of excitement for auto enthusiasts, with Honda previewing its production-ready Prelude coupe and Proton launching the X70 Sport Edition. The buzz was continued with the teasers of the Toyota Yaris Cross, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, and Ioniq 6 N models, along with the opening of KLIMS 2026 ticket sales. In the meantime, a couple of big unveilings and announcements remain in the headlines in the global market. 

Here’s a quick recap of all the top auto news of the week -

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

2026 Honda Prelude previewed in Malaysia ahead of launch

Honda Malaysia is ready to expand its lineup with the launch of the Prelude. Ahead of the official launch, scheduled for Q2 2026, the hybrid coupe was previewed in its production-ready form this week, offering an early glimpse of its sleek design and innovative features. The upcoming two-door coupe is powered by a hybrid drivetrain similar to that found in the Civic e:HEV and CR-V e:HEV, generating a combined system output of 203 PS. It features Honda-first ‘S+ Shift control’ tech that makes the driving experience more sporty and engaging. The customer preview sessions will begin from May 2 2026, at selected dealerships around Malaysia.

2026 Proton X70 Sport Edition launched in Malaysia 

Proton has rolled out the Sport Edition version of its popular SUV, the X70. Based on the Premium variant, the special X70 is sprayed with an exclusive Quartz Black colour and features an aerokit (including front, side, and rear skirts), black 19-inch alloy wheels, exclusive Sport Edition badging inside and out, and red stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and front armrest. Limited to 600 units, the Proton X70 Sport Edition is priced at RM 115,300.

2026 Toyota Yaris Cross teased in Malaysia, launch expected soon 

After introducing three pure electric cars (Hilux BEV, bZ4X, and Urban Cruiser) earlier this month, UMW Toyota is now gearing up for its next launch, the Yaris Cross. The Japanese automaker has started teasing the upcoming model on its social media handles, which is said to be the rebadged version of the Perodua Traz. Built on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA), the Toyota Yaris Cross is a B-segment SUV that comes in both pure ICE and hybrid models in the global markets. That said, Malaysia is expected to get the hybrid version of the SUV, considering UMW Toyota’s recent push towards electrification.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, Ioniq 6 N teased ahead of Q2 launch

Hyundai will reintroduce its N brand in Malaysia this year, marking a powerful new chapter in its performance offering. The brand’s N lineup will include - Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N performance EVs. Compared to their standard counterparts, these models feature sportier exteriors, N-specific interiors, high-performance powertrains with N-specific electronic systems, reworked suspension and chassis tuning, offering sharp handling and performance driving. The automaker has begun the upcoming N models teaser campaign, with the launch expected to happen in Q2 2026. 

2026 Land Rover Defender bookings open in Malaysia

Globally introduced in May 2025, the all-new Land Rover Defender facelift is ready to make its way to Malaysia. Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia has started accepting bookings for the upgraded version, featuring subtle design tweaks and cabin upgrades. Globally, the new Defender is offered with an Adaptive Off‑Road Cruise Control system that can adjust the speed automatically to maintain the desired level of comfort over undulating surfaces. For variants and powertrain details, we need to wait for the official specs to drop.

KLIMS 2026 tickets are now available 

The Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show is set to return for its 11th edition from 12–21 June 2026 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre. In anticipation of the event, MAA has announced the inaugural KLIMS Run 2026, taking place on 17 May 2026 at Dataran Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur, held during KL Car-Free Morning. Tickets for KLIMS 2026 are also now available for purchase, with a special early bird promo -

Category	Weekdays (Mon–Thu) 10 AM to 8 PM	Fri, Weekend & Public holidays 10 AM to 10 PM	Early-bird pricing (until 10 May)
Child (below 12 yrs)	Free	Free	Free
Adult (12 yrs & above)	Free	RM 30	RM 15
Senior Citizen (60+)	Free	RM 15	RM 8
OKU	Free	RM 15	RM 8
Student (with ID)	Free	RM15 flat rate	RM 15 flat rate

Jetour T2 bags over 4k bookings in one month

Launched in March this year, Jetour’s new rugged SUV, the T2, has grabbed 4,089 bookings in just one month, reflecting strong demand and growing confidence in the Chinese brand. This boxy-looking SUV is offered in a single variant priced at RM 156,800 (on the road, without insurance). Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged AWD engine, the Jetour T2 offers light-to-mid off-road capabilities and comes equipped with 8 terrain drive modes, a 540-degree panoramic camera, and an off-road crawling mode. The Jetour T2 early bird package, offering a RM 2000 cash rebate, has now been extended to 5,000 buyers.

Chery Malaysia organises the first Super Hybrid Battery Safety Challenge

Chery Malaysia held its first Chery Super Hybrid Battery Safety live challenge in Malaysia this week, showcasing how its plug-in hybrid battery pack holds up under extreme heat and direct flame exposure. The battery remained stable throughout the test, with no fire escalation, no electrical failure and no uncontrolled deformation, thus highlighting the brand’s continued focus on battery safety through real-world demonstrations. It was attended by more than 100 people, including government officials and members of the media.

Proton Golden Test Drive campaign announced 

Proton has announced the Golden Test Drive campaign for its electric vehicle owners. Running nationwide from 13 April to 17 May 2026, the campaign offers a chance to win gold and other prizes to those who test drive and book selected Proton e.MAS models. Alongside the test drive campaign, the automaker has announced a Golden Roadshow across several locations outside the Klang Valley, starting from April 15. 

Aveta Nova 200, Serra 125 and VS115 V3 launched in Malaysia 

Aveta launched three new models in the Malaysian market this week, reflecting its commitment to bringing products relevant to the needs of today's riders. These include - 

• Aveta Nova 200: Priced at RM 8,488, it is a sporty sub-200cc urban scooter, powered by a 183-cc liquid-cooled engine delivering 18 hp and 17.6 Nm. Key highlights include - LED Headlight with Progressive Illumination, LCD display metre, dual USB charging ports, 14-inch wheels, telescopic front forks, disc brakes, ABS system and a traction control system.

• Aveta Serra 125: Priced at RM 5,088, the Serra is the brand’s first flat-floor scooter, suitable for riding with all types of clothing. This entry-level scooter is powered by a 124-cc single-cylinder engine, which produces 8.1 hp and 10 Nm. Key features include- all-round LED lights, dual USB charging ports, LCD display meter, 14-inch wheels, telescopic front forks and a front disc brake.

• Aveta VS115 V3: This is Aveta’s new entry-level underbone motorcycle, priced at RM 3,488. It is powered by a 113-cc single-cylinder engine that delivers 8.8 PS and 9 Nm. Key features include - 17-inch alloy wheels, dual USB charging ports, a telescopic front fork, and drum brakes.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS facelift revealed globally

Mercedes-Benz has pulled the wraps off the all-new EQS facelift in the global market. The upgrades bring on board a higher range, better efficiency, and advanced technology. The EQS 450+ now delivers a range of up to 926 km, which is approx 13% more than the outgoing model, making it one of the longest-range electric sedans available in the market. The EV now supports DC fast charging of up to 350 kW, adding up to 320 km of range in 10 mins. Beyond the drivetrain, the electric luxury saloon boasts subtle cosmetic tweaks and a more premium cabin with new technology features. 

Leapmotor D19 launched in China with EREV and BEV options

Leapmotor has expanded its lineup in the Chinese market, with the launch of the D19 full-size SUV. It features the world’s largest EREV battery, featuring a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine, dual motor setup and 80.3-kWh battery pack, offering a pure electric range of 500 km and a combined range of up to 1,300 km. The BEV trim, on the other hand, is equipped with a 115-kWh battery, which allows the SUV to cruise up to 720 km on a single charge. The 5.2-m SUV is priced at CNY 219,800 (approximately equal to RM 127k).

GWM Tank 500 Black Warrior introduced in China, limited to 500 units 

Great Wall Motors has revealed a special limited-edition version of the Tank 500 in China, dubbed as the Tank 500 Black Warrior. Limited to 500 units initially, the SUV features an all-black styling package with a blacked-out grille, wheels, roof rails, and trim, along with red brake callipers and red-black interior. It is offered in two PHEV drivetrain options combining a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and single or dual electric motors; the latter generates a maximum power of 865 hp and an all-electric range of 201 km. 

All-electric Nissan Juke debuts in Europe

Nissan has revealed the all-new all-electric Juke, marking a major step forward in its electrification strategy in Europe. Based on the CMF-EV platform (shared with the Nissan Leaf and Nissan Ariya), the latest Juke features the brand’s signature ‘love-it-or-hate-it” quirky design with a coupe-like roofline, slim daytime running lights, and bug-eye headlamps. While the drivetrain specs have yet to be released, the new Nissan Juke EV is expected to borrow its setup from the Leaf, with likely outputs of up to 218 PS and an estimated range of between 400-600 km (WLTP).

That's a wrap for now. For the latest automotive updates, stay tuned with us.

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