Weekly wrap-up: Hyundai Stargazer, New Dongfeng models showcased at KLIMS 2026, Perodua QV-E price slashed, and more

After an exciting opening of KLIMS 2026 last week, the Malaysian automotive industry remains busy this week as well, with Hyundai showcasing the Stargazer MPV and Dongfeng previewing three upcoming models - Voyah Dream, M Hero II, and 008. Additionally, Volkswagen Malaysia launched the all-new Golf R Mk8.5, the most powerful production Golf currently in the market. 

In the meantime, the global industry enjoyed a few big reveals, alongside scoops on upcoming models. Here we bring a quick recap of all the top auto news of the week -

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Hyundai Stargazer previewed at KLIMS 2026, bookings open

Alongside the launch of the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N, Hyundai Motor Malaysia also previewed its upcoming B-segment MPV, the Stargazer, at KLIMS 2026. It will be offered in three variants - Style (7-seater), Prime (7-seater) and X (6-seater), with estimated pricing ranging from RM 99k to RM 121k. All variants are powered by a 1.5-litre Smartstream G1.5 MPI engine producing 115 PS of maximum power and 143.8 Nm of peak torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission and 2WD. Bookings for this people-hauler are now underway in the local market.

Three new Dongfeng models showcased at KLIMS 2026

Dongfeng Malaysia previewed three new models at the 2026 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show, including the Voyah Dream, M Hero II, and 008. The Voyah Dream is a premium plug-in hybrid MPV, the Dongfeng M Hero II is a luxury off-road REEV, and the Dongfeng 008 is a six-seater electric SUV. Regarding their pricing and launch timelines, Dongfeng Malaysia has not confirmed anything yet.

2026 Volkswagen Golf R launched in Malaysia at RM 337,790

The all-new Volkswagen Golf R Mk8.5 has made its way to the Malaysian market. Priced at RM 337,790 (on-the-road, without insurance), the upgraded hatchback benefits from significant design enhancements, more advanced technology and the most powerful production Golf engine to date. The sharper, bolder, and more aggressive exterior features an illuminated Volkswagen logo, IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights, new IQ.LIGHT 3D LED tail light clusters, and 19-inch ‘Estoril’ Alloy wheels. Inside, there is a bigger 12.9-inch infotainment unit powered by the latest MIB4 operating system. Under the hood lies a new 2.0 TSI turbocharged engine generating 333 PS of maximum power and 420 Nm of torque. 

Perodua QV-E EV price slashed, now starts from RM 63,499

Perodua has slashed the QV-E price, following increased localisation in its manufacturing process. The EV now costs RM 93,999 to own outright or RM 69,999 with the Battery as a Service (BAAS) package at RM 215 monthly battery subscription fee for 9 years. The special limited-time promo, valid till 30 September 2026, brings down the outright purchase price to RM 87,499, while the BAAS model is priced at RM 63,499. 

New Chery 3S outlet opens in Kulai, Johor

Chery Malaysia has opened a new 3S centre in Johor, in association with its dealer-partner, Autohub Mobility Sdn Bhd. Located at No. 4, Jalan SME 1, Kawasan Perindustrian SME in Kulai, the centre offers customers a comprehensive and seamless experience, from vehicle viewing to aftersales support. It incorporates Chery’s Gen 4.0 showroom design concept, a fully functional service centre with four service bays, and a comfortable customer lounge. The showroom operates daily from 8.30 am to 6.00 pm (Mon – Sun), including public holidays, while the service centre is open from 8.00 am to 5.00 pm (Monday to Saturday).

New BYD Atto 3 hits 1,000 bookings in 10 days

The newly-launched BYD Atto 3 has secured over 1,000 bookings within just 10 days, repeating the success it achieved during its initial launch in 2022. This milestone highlights the continued popularity of the Atto 3 among Malaysian buyers. The upgraded BYD EV is offered in two variants - Ultra and Premium, priced at RM 125,800 and RM 138,800, respectively. While the Ultra variant features the same front electric motor as before, the Premium trim is the talk of the town as it comes with an RWD setup, offering 313 PS of power, 0 to 100 kmph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds and a driving range of up to 600 km.

Perodua cuts vehicle servicing cost by 10% 

Alongside revising its EV’s price, Perodua also reduced the service maintenance parts cost and labour charges by 10% this week, to help Malaysians cope with the rising cost of living. The campaign applies to the brand’s entire lineup, including the QV-E, ranging from inspection, parts replacement, as well as labour costs relating to vehicle maintenance.

MG Car Club Gathering held at KLIMS 2026

SAIC Motor Malaysia organised the MG Car Club Gathering at KLIMS 2026, bringing together 39 privately owned vehicles (34 modern MG electric vehicles and 5 classic MG models). The event also united members of Kelab MG Malaysia and MG EV Club Malaysia, reflecting the growing and increasingly diverse community of MG owners. It showcased the brand’s modern EVs, including MGS5 EV, MG ZS, MG4 and Cyberster, along with Classic MG models from the 1960s and 1970s, including the MG TD, MG YT (Tourer), MG Midget, MGB GT, and the MGA.

Suzuki previews the SV-7 GX touring bike at KLIMS 2026

Suzuki Malaysia previewed the SV-7 GX middleweight touring motorcycle at KLIMS 2026. Inspired by the legendary SV650, the SV-7 GX features a bold, refined silhouette with a sharp half-cowl, premium finishes, and sculpted side panels. It is powered by a 645 cc 90-degree V-twin engine that generates a maximum power of 73 PS at 8,500 rpm and a peak torque of 64 Nm at 6,800 rpm. Key features include - an adjustable windscreen, LED projector headlight, LED rear combination lights, 4.2-inch TFT display, USB-C charging port, Suzuki Intelligent Ride System, Suzuki Traction Control System, a six-speed gearbox and a Quick Shift System.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

All-new 2026 Nissan Kicks launched in Japan

Nissan has launched the all-new second-gen Kicks in the Japanese market. Based on the US-spec model, the upgraded SUV is built on the automaker’s CMF-B platform and features the third-gen e-Power hybrid system paired with the e-FORCE all-wheel drive system. The new Nissan Kicks also gets a stiffer body and upgraded suspension for more stable handling with a new Snow drive mode, especially for slippery surfaces. In terms of appearance, the SUV benefits from a larger grille, a split lighting setup, and Resonance Blue, which represents its clean character. 

Freelander 8 First Edition debuts in China 

Freelander, a new standalone premium SUV brand born from a collaboration between Chery and Jaguar Land Rover (on a 50:50 basis), made its global debut earlier this year. The company has now officially unveiled its first model, the Freelander 8 First Edition, in China as a premium hybrid off-roader SUV. It is a mid-to-large six-seater SUV, with a length exceeding 5,100 mm and a wheelbase greater than 3,000 mm. Based on a dedicated new architecture, the SUV features an 800V range-extended powertrain mated to a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine and a 60.331 kWh battery pack, offering an all-electric range of 221 km. After launching the Freelander 8 in China later this year, the automaker has planned a rapid global rollout. 

2027 Honda Prelude Limited Edition debuts in Japan

Honda has introduced a special Limited Edition version of the Prelude coupe in Japan. Slated to go on sale in August 2026, the special model is sprayed with a Premium Crystal Garnet Metallic exterior shade, paired with red styling accents for a sportier look. Inside, there are Bordeaux-coloured accents on the centre console and door armrest pads, along with two-tone leather seats with ‘Prelude’ embroidery on the front headrests. The Honda Prelude Limited Edition retains the same hybrid drivetrain and chassis setup, with no exclusive upgrades. The price starts from JPY 6,306,300 (approx RM 162k), making it slightly dearer than the standard model. 

Leapmotor hits 1.5 million sales milestone globally

Leapmotor has achieved a big milestone in its global development journey, reaching a total of 1.5 million cumulative vehicle deliveries worldwide. This achievement highlights the brand’s rapid expansion and growing international footprint. Established in June 2019, the automaker has maintained strong and consistent momentum, hitting the 500,000 units milestone in October 2024 before crossing the 1 million mark in October 2025.

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

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