Weekly wrap-up: Hyundai Ioniq 6 new variants, 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 CKD launched, Volvo PHEVs updated, and more

This week, the Malaysian automotive market welcomed two new affordable variants of the stunning Hyundai Ioniq 6 EV, along with the locally-assembled version of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic. Additionally, Volvo Cars Malaysia revealed the updated versions of its plug-in hybrid models. Meanwhile, the international auto industry witnessed the unveiling of several new models such as the new 2024 Peugeot e-3008, Volkswagen ID.X Performance, 2024 Ford F-150, and 2024 Nissan Frontier. Here’s a quick recap of the top auto news of the week. 

Local News

Hyundai Ioniq 6 gets two new variants 

Hyundai has expanded the range of its award-winning Ioniq 6 EV in Malaysia with the addition of two new variants - Lite RWD and Lite Plus, priced at RM 219,888 and RM 249,888, respectively. The new models are more affordable than the existing Max versions and come equipped with a single 151 PS/350 Nm RWD motor and a 53 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack. The new Hyundai Ioniq 6 variants offer a WLTP-claimed range of 429 km. 

Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic CKD launched

Launched in Malaysia back in April, the new Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic has now arrived in the locally-assembled version. Priced at RM 378,888, the CKD model is 51,000 cheaper than the fully imported model. The SUV benefits from a hands-free access tailgate system and a panoramic sunroof with other specifications remains unchanged.

Volvo PHEVs get a nip and tuck

Volvo Cars Malaysia has launched the updated versions of its plug-in hybrid lineup, which include the XC90, XC60, S90, S60, and V60. The latest models get new wheels and an upgraded onboard charger for enhanced performance, a new exterior colour option i.e. Vapour Grey, and the added luxury of a standard panoramic sunroof.

2023 Toyota Vios safety rating released

ASEAN NCAP awarded the 2023 Toyota Vios with a 5-star rating under the more comprehensive 2021-2025 assessment protocol. The B-segment received a total of a total score of 78.70 points, including 35.25 points in Adult Occupant Protection, 16.64 points in Child Occupant Protection, 16.08 points in Safety Assist, and 10.73 points in Motorcyclist Safety. The car comes equipped with 6 airbags, an anti-lock braking system, electronic stability control, pedestrian protection technology, and several safety assist technologies.

Smart Malaysia launched a mobile application

The German EV maker smart is ready to roll out its first electric car in Malaysia, the smart #1. Ahead of that, the brand launched the “Hello smart app” to provide its customers with a seamless buying and ownership experience. The app contains four notable features - a Live Charging Map and navigation System, a Vehicle Booking and financing Loan Application, a One-Stop Service Home Charging Solution, and Community Engagement. These features are new to the electric vehicle market in Malaysia. Interested folks can download the “Hello smart app” from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, and Huawei App Gallery.

Proton recalls the X90 SUV

A team of experts from Proton and Geely thoroughly investigated the X90 fire incident that happened back in August to find out its root cause. According to the team, the fire was caused by the grounding connection of the vehicle's body. The connection can lead to overheating when a continuous large current passes through it and can result in a thermal incident. To rectify the issue, all Proton X90 owners are required to bring their vehicles for inspection, and if necessary, corrective actions will be undertaken to eliminate any potential risk.

International News

2024 Peugeot e-3008 electric fastback SUV revealed

Peugeot has unveiled the all-new electric fastback SUV, the e-3008. It is based on Stellantis' brand new STLA Medium platform and comes loaded with either a 73-kWh battery pack or a 98-kWh battery, offering a driving range of up to 700 km. The EV has a dynamic and aerodynamic design, a high-tech front fascia, newly designed 19- or 20-inch wheels, a new curved 21-inch HD panoramic screen, a compact steering wheel with new controls, and several other modern creature comforts.

Volkswagen ID.X Performance breaks cover

Volkswagen has pulled off the wraps of the all-new ID.X Performance sedan concept, which is based on the ID 7. The one-off car is powered by two electric motors (one on each axle) together generating a maximum power of 566 hp. The motors are hooked with a robust drive battery, supporting a charging capacity of up to 200 kW. The EV features 20-inch centre-locking alloy wheels, carbon-fibre front splitter and rear diffuser, and carbon-fibre front bucket seats.

2024 Ford F-150 debuts in the US

Ford US has updated its best-selling pickup truck, the F-150. The upgraded model benefits from cosmetic tweaks, new colours, new wheel packages, and a new Pro Access Tailgate system. The pickup truck also gets a new standard engine i.e. 2.7-litre EcoBoost with higher horsepower and torque numbers. Other familiar engine options include - a 5.0-litre V8 and 3.5-litre V6. The new Ford F-150 will hit the US showrooms early next year.

2024 Nissan Frontier Hardbody Edition made its official debut

Nissan has introduced a new special edition version of the Frontier pickup, called the Frontier Hardbody Edition. The special model pays tribute to the beloved Nissan hardbody pickup from the 1980s. Based on the Crew Cab SV 4x4 model, the 2024 Nissan Frontier Hardbody Edition features heritage-inspired design elements such as retro-looking 17-inch alloy wheels, an aluminium skid plate, a black side rail, black over-fenders, and a bed-mounted bar. It is powered by a 3.8-litre direct-injection V6 engine capable of generating a maximum power of 310 hp. The power is sent to the wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission. 

That concludes our weekly report. For further updates, stay connected with us.

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