Weekly wrap-up: iCAUR 03, New Chery O5, New Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line launched, New Volvo XC60 bookings open and more

The second week of September has been a busy one for the Malaysian automotive market, with iCAUR launching its first model and Chery introducing the O5 as the facelifted Omoda 5. The luxury car segment welcomed the new Mercedes-Benz C200 AMG Line and two new Mercedes-AMG coupes.

In the meantime, a couple of big unveilings and announcements remain in the headlines in the global market. If you have missed tuning into Zigwheels, we have got you covered in our weekly wrap of top auto news. 

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

iCAUR 03 launches as Malaysia’s first off-road EV

Born from a strong collaboration between Chery and SmartMi Tech, iCAUR, finally launched its first EV in Malaysia, called the iCAUR 03. It is an off-road electric SUV offering rugged off-road capability, solid performance and advanced technology. The EV is offered in two variants - 2WD and iWD, priced at RM 119,800 and RM 129,800, respectively. The 2WD uses a 65.7 kWh battery for 426 km range, while the iWD variant gets a 69.8 kWh pack with up to 418 km. iCAUR Malaysia also offers the special Black Phantom Edition trim at an additional cost of RM 20,000. The early bird package offers 1 year unlimited charging, a Lifestyle pack and a free wallbox charger.

2025 Chery O5 launched in Malaysia

Chery Malaysia has launched the facelifted version of the Omoda 5, as the Chery O5. The upgraded model is offered in a single variant, priced at RM 116,800, which is slightly lower than the predecessor. The updates include - new front grille, new bumpers, a multi-link suspension replacing the torsion beam setup, an updated 540° camera system, and new cabin features. Under the hood lies a new 6-speed dual-clutch transmission paired with the same 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine found in the previous model. The early-bird package worth RM 6,000 adds 3 years of free service, and a 10-year/1,000,000 km engine warranty worth RM 2,000.

Malaysia gets the all-new Mercedes-Benz C 200 AMG Line 

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has expanded the lineup of its popular C-Class sedan, with the launch of the all-new C 200 AMG Line trim, priced at RM 292,888. The new C 200 AMG Line sports a more aggressive AMG Line exterior package, AMG Line-specific interior elements and an upgraded braking setup with larger, perforated front discs. Under the bonnet lies a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with mild-hybrid assist, delivering 204 hp and 300 Nm, plus an extra 23 hp and 200 Nm from the electric motor.

2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 and CLA 45 S Final Edition launched in Malaysia 

Alongside the C 200 AMG Line, two new AMG coupés also made their way to the local shores this week - 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupé and the 2025 Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé Final Edition. Priced at RM 722,888, the CLE 53 is a fresh nameplate that mixes C-Class agility with E-Class proportions. The CLA 45 S Final Edition, on the other hand, marks the end of the current generation and comes with exclusive MANUFAKTUR alpine grey paint, AMG Night Package II with dark chrome trim, and edition-specific details. It retails for RM 538,888.

2025 Volvo XC60 bookings now open in Malaysia

Volvo Car Malaysia has started accepting bookings for the all-new XC60, which is expected to hit the local shores soon. The automaker offers the new XC60 in two variants - T8 AWD Plug-in Hybrid and B5 AWD Mild Hybrid, both cater to the evolving demands of Malaysian drivers. Upgrades include striking cosmetic tweaks such as a new diagonal mesh front grille, new wheels and new colour options. Also new for the 2025 model year is a new air suspension system, redesigned seats, and a new 11.2-inch unit running on Google built-in system. The estimated price begins at RM 333,888 and goes up to RM 367,888. 

New BYD EV on the horizon for Malaysia

BYD Malaysia has begun the teaser campaigning for its upcoming EV on social media handles, dropping cryptic clues to generate buzz among enthusiasts. The teasers prominently feature the number “6” and show a tail light design that closely resembles the BYD Qin L EV that launched in China earlier this year. Rivalling the likes of the Tesla Model 3, the Qin L is an all-electric midsize sedan that features an 800V high-voltage system and a RWD motor. Two LFP Blade battery options are - 46.08 kWh and 56.64 kWh, offering a driving range of 470 km and 545 km, respectively. The EV comes equipped with BYD’s DiLink 100 smart cockpit system and “God’s Eye” C three-camera solution.

Sime Motors celebrates 45th anniversary with special initiatives

Malaysia’s number one automotive retailer, Sime Motors has completed its 45 years of operations. From introducing advanced technologies to providing premium ownership experiences and driving Malaysia’s electric mobility transition, the company has always been at the forefront. Among the special initiatives rolled out by Sime Motors to commemorate its 45th anniversary are a sales carnival at Sime Motors City, lucky draw prizes, an orchestra concert, a 45-hour anniversary sales marathon, and community engagement programs.

Proton reveals August 2025 sales performance 

Proton sold a total of 15,228 units (domestic and export) in August 2025, representing a growth of 12.65% over July numbers. August marked the brand’s highest monthly sales volume in the previous 36 months, bringing its year-to-date (YTD) total to 100,902 units. While the Saga continues to be Proton's best-selling model, the X50, X90, and S70 remain leaders in their respective segments. The Proton e.MAS 7 maintained its lead in the Malaysian EV market with total deliveries of 852 units (domestic + export) during the month, representing an increase of 20.7% over July.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

All-new second-gen BMW iX3 revealed globally

BMW has unveiled the second-generation iX3 that marks the debut of its all-new Neue Klasse platform. The EV features a new design, sixth-gen BMW eDrive tech, and the most advanced driver orientation with the BMW Panoramic iDrive system. It runs on the new “Super-Brains,” offering 20 times more processing power than current BMW cars. Built on an 800V architecture, the new iX3 is equipped with a 108.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which offers a WLTP-claimed range of up to 805 km. BMW confirmed that all the latest technologies of the new architecture will be featured in the upcoming 40 BMW models set to arrive by 2027.

Jetour G700 hybrid off-road SUV debuts in the UAE

Jetour has introduced a new luxury hybrid off-road SUV, the G700, in the Middle East market, marking its official entry into the premium hybrid off-road segment. This is the brand’s first model based on its new GAIA platform, which is specifically designed for next-gen smart, electrified SUVs. Built to tackle the extremes, the G700 is based on a durable body-on-frame chassis and features a plug-in hybrid drivetrain (2.0TD engine and two electric motors) and a full-time electric 4WD system. The luxurious interior is surrounded by smart technology and offers two seating configurations - 2+3 and 2+2+2.

All-new Ferrari 849 Testarossa breaks cover 

After a hiatus of 29 years, Ferrari has brought back its Testarossa nameplate for its new successor to the SF90. Touted as the most powerful production Ferrari to date, the new Ferrari 849 Testarossa comes in both coupe and spider versions. It packs an upgraded 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 plug-in hybrid drivetrain with three electric motors, generating a total output of 1,050 hp. The supercar takes just  2.3 seconds to complete the century sprint and maxes out at 330 kmph. Other key highlights include sharp geometric surfaces, strong cab-forward proportions, aggressive aerodynamic elements and active rear spoiler, underbody sculpting, and a stiffer suspension setup.

All-electric Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV debuts in Europe

Mercedes-Benz has pulled the wraps of the all-new GLC electric SUV at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich, called the Mercedes GLC with EQ Technology. Based on the automaker’s MB.EA platform, the latest EV comes in RWD and AWD versions, offering a maximum range of up to 713 km (on the WLTP cycle). The GLC EV features an illuminated 942-pixel front grille, star-shaped running lights, and tiny star-shaped LED signatures in the tail lights. It also houses a 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, the largest screen ever fitted in a Mercedes car.

‘Hyundai Concept Three’ compact EV concept unveiled 

At IAA Mobility 2025, Hyundai’s sub-brand Ioniq revealed its first compact EV concept, the Hyundai Concept Three. It is an innovative compact EV concept that represents the next step in the company’s electrification journey. With an anodised-effect exterior finish, the EV concept features Parametric Pixel lighting, an Aero Hatch profile, and a vertical tailgate. The interior incorporates soft yellow and grey tones, sustainable materials, Modular ‘Bring Your Own Lifestyle (BYOL)’ widgets, and Mr. Pix, which is a symbolic character integrated throughout the car for a playful vibe. 

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

Also read: Hilux, Corolla Cross, and Corolla GR-S – The sporty side of practicality