Weekly wrap-up: Honda Prelude hybrid previewed, Denza B8 Malaysian launch confirmed, Chery Tiggo 9 teased, and more

The Malaysian automotive industry has just concluded another busy week full of excitement and major updates. It started with Denza confirming the debut date for its upcoming B8 SUV, followed by the preview of the Honda Prelude and the teaser release of the Chery Tiggo 9. In the meantime, a couple of big unveilings and announcements remain in the headlines in the global market. 

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

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Denza B8 set to make Malaysian debut on May 21

BYD’s premium arm, Denza, has opened registrations for its new plug-in hybrid SUV, the B8, ahead of the official debut slated for May 21, 2026. The rebadged version of the Fangchengbao Bao 8, known as the B8, is a three-row off-road SUV that boasts a boxy and muscular stance with full-size proportions. It is powered by a plug-in hybrid drivetrain, comprising a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, dual electric motors, and Blade Battery technology. The setup delivers a combined output of 450 kW and 760 Nm and a combined range of up to 1,040 km (including 115 km pure EV range).

Honda Prelude previewed again in Malaysia, debut set for June 2026

After previewing the upcoming Prelude in April, Honda Malaysia has now brought its two-door hybrid coupe to Sepang International Circuit, giving us a chance to enjoy a test drive. The Prelude can be best described as a grand tourer that prioritises refined, comfortable long-distance driving while offering genuine driving engagement. It is powered by a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine mated to a two-motor hybrid system, delivering a combined output of 203 PS and 315 Nm and a 0 to 100 kmph acceleration time of 8.2 seconds. The Honda Prelude is set to make its Malaysian debut next month.

Chery Tiggo 9 teased in Malaysia, ROI opens

Chery is gearing up to bring its new SUV to Malaysia, called the Tiggo 9. While the official launch date is yet to be announced, the automaker has started accepting registrations for the upcoming model. The Tiggo 9 is a premium three-row SUV, offering plenty of space for the whole family. The Malaysia-spec version will come powered by a 2.0T all-wheel drivetrain, which is expected to generate a maximum power of 254 PS and a peak torque of 390 Nm. Key features include 7 driving modes, a 15.6-inch infotainment unit, a 10-way powered driver’s seat, a head-up display, ventilated seats, a 14-speaker Sony audio system, 10 airbags, and 23 ADAS systems.

Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC 43 Coupé Nightfall Edition launched in Malaysia

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has launched the Nightfall Edition of the AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupé in the local market. The locally assembled luxury coupe is priced at RM518,888 (on-the-road, excluding insurance). The Nightfall Edition sets itself apart from the standard model with the AMG Night Package Exterior II, adding dark chrome detailing to the radiator trim slats, fender and rear badges, and rear badge. Furthermore, it comes with the AMG Real Performance Sound system that adjusts the engine sound character inside the cabin. Under the bonnet lies a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder paired with a 48-volt belt-driven starter generator.

Foton Aumark S Euro 5 AMT launched in Malaysia

Angka-Tan Motor Sdn Bhd (ATM), the authorised distributor of Foton trucks in Malaysia, launched the Foton Aumark S Euro 5 AMT this week at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo 2026. It is a light-duty truck powered by a Cummins ISF 3.8-litre Euro 5 engine producing 154 PS and 500 Nm of torque and a ZF six-speed Automated Manual Transmission.

KTM launches four new models in Malaysia

KTM has made a strong comeback to the Malaysian market with the introduction of four new models - KTM 390 Enduro R, KTM 390 SMC R, KTM 390 Adventure R, and KTM 390 Adventure X.

All are powered by a 399-cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine tuned to deliver a maximum power of 45 PS and a peak torque of 39 Nm. The engine comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox and a chain-final drive system. Prices are as follows -

• KTM 390 Enduro R - RM 27,300
• KTM 390 SMC R - RM 27,300
• KTM 390 Adventure X - RM 29,300
• KTM 390 Adventure R - RM 33,300

Proton e.MAS Proton hits 20,000-unit sales milestone

Proton’s new energy vehicle arm, PRO-NET, has delivered a total of 20,509 units so far in the Malaysian market. The brand’s first EV, the e.MAS 7 has continued to see strong demand in the country with a total of 10,067 units delivered. It is followed by the e.MAS 5, Proton’s best-selling EV, has achieved a total registration of 8,687 units. The automaker’s recently launched PHEV, the e.MAS 7 PHEV, has also gained strong traction amid rising fuel costs in the country. It has emerged as Malaysia’s best-selling PHEV in 2026 with 1,755 units registered year-to-date.

UMW Toyota reveals April 2026 sales numbers

UMW Toyota has revealed its sales numbers for April 2026. During the fourth month of the year, the Japanese automaker sold a total of 6,464 units. The company’s year-to-date total sales stand at 21,924 units. Among the brand’s best-selling models are the Hilux, Vios, and Alphard. In April, UMW Toyota introduced three EVs - the bZ4X, Urban Cruiser EV, and Hilux EV, followed by the launch of the Yaris Cross in May. 

Mercedes-Benz opens new 4S Kuantan Autohaus in Pahang

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has opened a new Autohaus outlet in Kuantan, in association with its dealer partner Asbenz Stern. Located in the Indera Mahkota area, the new facility has a built-up area of 65,340 sq ft, featuring a spacious display section accommodating up to six vehicles, a Star Lounge, and a Mercedes-Benz Lifestyle Collection showcase. The service centre is equipped with 16 work bays manned by Mercedes-Benz-trained and certified technicians. Along with B&P services, DC fast charges are also available at Mercedes-Benz’s new outlet.

Kia Malaysia hosts ownership event in Glenmarie 

With an aim to build closer relationships with its customers, Kia Sales Malaysia has been organising a service and ownership event at the Glenmarie 3S centre in the Klang Valley. Running from May 11 to 17, the week-long event is open for existing Kia owners and the general public, with a Family Day segment scheduled from 15 to 17 May covering vehicle maintenance sessions, product displays, kids' activities, and promotions. The company has also launched a new Kia Maintenance Plan, currently available for selected Sportage and Carnival variants. It is a prepaid servicing package that locks in costs over a set period regardless of future price movements on labour, parts, or engine oil.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

Honda plans to launch 15 new hybrids by 2030

After cancelling its 0 Series EV lineup, Honda has announced its plans to introduce 15 new hybrid models in the global market by the end of 2030. The company unveiled two hybrid prototypes this week - the Honda Hybrid Sedan and the Acura Hybrid SUV, which are scheduled to go on sale within the next two years. Honda has also been working on a new hybrid system, which will improve fuel economy, reduce hybrid system costs, and deliver a unique driving experience.

MG 07 launching soon in China with BEV and PHEV options

To compete against the BYD Seal and Tesla Model 3, MG will soon be rolling out a new fastback sedan in China, named MG 07. Built on SAIC‘s NEV platform, the MG 07 will be offered in both electric and plug-in hybrid powertrain options. It features a low-slung, wide-body stance, a long wheelbase, and short overhangs, with two-tone sport wheels and colored brake callipers. Underpinning 800-volt architecture, the MG 07 will come equipped with a roof-mounted LiDAR system and Momenta R7 “Enhanced World Model” solution, offering advanced driving assistance features.

Three-row Audi Q9 debut confirmed for July 2026

After plenty of speculations, Audi has finally confirmed the arrival of its new three-row SUV, the Q9. Underpinning the same Premium Platform Combustion as the new Q5 and A5, the upcoming Audi Q9 will be offered in 7-seat and 6-seat layouts. In terms of features, it will have a split-headlight setup, illuminated Audi logos, a rear LED light bar, 23-inch alloys, triple interior displays, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The Audi Q9 full reveal is slated for July 29, 2026. 

Jaguar confirms the name of its upcoming electric GT

Jaguar has officially revealed the name of its upcoming all-electric four-door GT, the Type 01. Inspired by the earlier Type 00 concept, the name combines heritage (“Type”) with its zero-emission plans (“0”) and signifies the first model of its next-gen range (“1”). Expected to debut later this year, the Jaguar Type 01 will feature a futuristic design and a tri-motor setup delivering a maximum power of 1000 hp and a claimed driving range of 700 km.

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

Also read: What makes the new Audi Q5 a well-rounded luxury SUV