Weekly wrap-up: Ford Everest Platinum teased for Malaysia, Ferrari Luce EV revealed, Next-gen Mitsubishi Pajero debut confirmed and more

The Malaysian automotive industry was a bit quiet this week, with no major launches, fewer announcements, and fewer activities. However, Ford and Suzuki kept enthusiasts excited by teasing their upcoming Everest Platinum and the all-new Suzuki Jimny variant. The global arena, on the other hand, saw the unveiling of Ferrari’s first EV along with several other new models. In case you missed out on any of that, we have covered you with this quick recap of important auto news of the week. So let’s get started.

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

New Ford Everest variant coming to Malaysia

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, is set to bring a new variant of the Everest SUV. The company has teased the upcoming model on its social media handles, which is expected to be the Everest Platinum, positioned above the Wildtrak in the global lineup. The new variant may offer cosmetic exterior upgrades such as an exclusive front grille and matrix headlamps, along with a more luxurious cabin experience featuring quilted leather upholstery, heated/ventilated seats, and Bang & Olufsen speakers. At the core, it is likely to retain the same 2.0-litre bi-turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine as other variants, producing a maximum power of 210 hp and a peak torque of 500 Nm. 

New Suzuki Jimny variant teased for Malaysia

Suzuki Malaysia has teased a new model on its social media channels this week, featuring a boxy silhouette that strongly suggests that a new Suzuki Jimny variant could soon arrive on local shores. While no official details have been revealed yet, the post’s caption - “Elevated safety, uncompromised value and adventure redefined” - does hint at what’s to come. Based on this, the new Suzuki Jimny is expected to come with a range of safety upgrades.

Royal Enfield Goan Classic 350 arrives in Malaysia

Didi Group launched a new Royal Enfield motorcycle in Malaysia this week, called the Goan Classic 350. It features a bobber-inspired look with ape-style handlebars, chopped fenders, a low-slung seat, and a stylish rear silhouette. The bike is powered by a 349-cc air-oil-cooled single-cylinder engine that churns out 20.2 hp of maximum power at 6,100 rpm and 27 Nm of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. It is offered in four bold colour tones inspired by Hippie Goan culture and lifestyle, including Shack Black, Purple Haze, Trip Teal, and Rave Red. The price ranges from RM 25,200 to RM 25,500.

2026 Kawasaki Z650S launched in Malaysia

Kawasaki has expanded its lineup in Malaysia with the launch of the all-new Z650S. It features updated Sugomi-inspired styling with a wider and more aggressive streetfighter design. At the core lies a 649-cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine generating a maximum power of 68 PS at 8,000 rpm and a peak torque of 64 Nm at 6,700 rpm. Key highlights include two-channel ABS, a 4.3-inch TFT-LCD screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a six-speed gearbox with assist and slipper clutch. The 2026 Kawasaki Z650S is priced at RM 35,600 (excluding road tax, insurance, and registration).

Aveta Malaysia opens a new Technical Service Centre for advanced concerns

Malaysia's home-grown motorcycle brand, Aveta, has opened the doors of a new Technical Service Centre for Aveta and Peugeot motorcycle owners nationwide. The new after-sales service facility is designed to handle major repairs and advanced technical concerns, which cannot be resolved at the dealer level. Set to work in conjunction with Aveta Care On Wheels (ACOW), the new centre houses a fully fitted workshop with dedicated service bays and a customer lounge. It is located at 10, Jalan Astana 1E, Bandar Bukit Raja, 41050 Klang, Selangor. 

Proton donates 8 engine units to TVET institutions

Proton has donated 8 advanced engine units to selected Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions and higher learning centres to nurture the country's young talent. The donated machinery will help students in learning a wide range of technical applications, including engine assembly and disassembly, diagnostics, ECU familiarisation and practical maintenance exercises. With this initiative, Proton aims to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world automotive technology experience, developing industry-ready graduates.

New Honda BigWing showroom opens in Senai

Boon Siew Honda has expanded its footprint in Malaysia with the opening of a new Honda BigWing showroom in Senai. Located at No. 451, Jalan Persiaran Scientex Utama 1, Taman Scientex Utama, 81400, Senai, Johor, the centre has a minimalist design focused on customer comfort and premium service. It displays the brand’s full 2026 Big Bike range, including the latest models equipped with Honda E-Clutch technology. The well-equipped service centre promises faster and smoother maintenance with an optimised parts supply chain.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

Ferrari Luce EV revealed - 1.050 hp output, 0-100 kmph in 2.5 secs

Ferrari has finally pulled the wrap off its first-ever electric car, the Luce. Designed by former Apple design chief Jony Ive, the Ferrari Luce is a four-door, five-seater electric grand tourer built on a new bespoke platform developed in Maranello. It is powered by four electric motors producing a whopping output of 1,050 hp and 990 Nm, enabling the EV to run from 0 to 100 kmph in 2.5 seconds and 0 to 200 kmph in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 310 kmph. Packed with a 122-kWh battery pack, the Ferrari Luce EV is estimated to offer a driving range of 530 km on a single charge.

New Mitsubishi Pajero debut confirmed for 2026

After being discontinued globally in 2021, the iconic Mitsubishi Pajero nameplate is ready to make a comeback. The Japanese automaker has confirmed that the all-new fifth-gen Mitsubishi Pajero will make its world premiere later this year. The upcoming iteration of the SUV will be based on the ladder-frame platform of the Triton pickup truck. It is expected to come with a new front-end design and upgraded suspension setup offering better comfort and off-road capabilities. Under the hood, it may get a 2.4-litre turbo-diesel engine generating a maximum power of 204 PS, mated to the automaker’s Super Select II four-wheel drive system. 

Lotus Emira 420 Sport breaks cover

Lotus has introduced the most powerful and lightest version of the Emira supercar, named Emira 420 Sport. It is packed with a Mercedes-AMG-sourced 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that kicks out a maximum power of 420 hp and a peak torque of 500 Nm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission, enabling the vehicle to hit the century sprint in 3.9 seconds. The new Lotus Emira also benefits from aerodynamic upgrades, a Lightweight Handling Pack, and revised suspension settings, offering sharper handling than the standard model. The supercar will be offered in a wide range of exterior colour options, including an exclusive Tangelo Orange shade.

All-new 2026 Honda City facelift debuts in Thailand

The all-new 2026 Honda City facelift has arrived on the shores of Thailand, shortly after making its grand launch in India. The upgraded model will continue to come in both sedan and hatchback bodystyles. Exterior upgrades include a wider honeycomb front grille, redesigned bumpers, and new ‘Blade-Eye’ LED headlights with a connected lighting signature. Inside, you get a larger 10-inch infotainment unit along with other new features like ambient lighting and a 360-degree camera. The new Honda City is offered in a 1.0-litre VTEC Turbo petrol engine and a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder DOHC i-VTEC petrol hybrid engine in Thailand.

MG 4X launched in China with a liquid-solid state battery

MG introduced a new compact electric SUV in China this week, called the MG 4X. Based on SAIC’s “Nebula” electric architecture, the latest model is one of the world’s first mass-market models that features semi-solid state battery tech. The said technology is supposed to be safer, more thermally stable, and more energy-dense than traditional batteries. The EV is offered in two RWD drivetrain options, generating a maximum power output of 168 hp and 201 hp. Battery choices include 53.9 kWh manganese-based lithium-ion liquid-solid state and 64.2 kWh LFP, offering a range of 510 km or 610 km. The MG 4X price in China ranges from CNY 99,800 (RM 58k) to CNY 116,800 (RM 68k).

AUDI E7X electric SUV launched in China

AUDI and SAIC have launched the AUDI E7X electric SUV in the Chinese market. Built on a 900V architecture, the EV is offered with both single- and dual-motor drivetrain options. The top-spec iteration, equipped with two motors, delivers a maximum power output of 680 PS and a 0-100 kmph sprint time of 3.9 seconds. Battery options include - 100 kWh and 109 kWh, offering a maximum range of 751 km (on the CLTC cycle). Other key highlights include an illuminated front lighting signature, a huge 27-inch display, a 26-speaker Bose sound system, a rear entertainment screen, multiple cameras, and LIDAR sensors. 

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

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