Weekly wrap-up: Jetour T2 Dark Warrior Limited Edition launched, New Volvo EX90 ROI opens, GWM Ora 5 HEV previewed and more

This week was kick-started with the preview of the GWM Ora 5 HEV, followed by the announcement of the Volvo EX90’s upcoming arrival and the launch of the Jetour T2 Dark Warrior Limited Edition. In the meantime, the global market also saw a number of debuts, along with snippets of upcoming models. Here, we bring a quick recap of all the top auto news of the week.

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Jetour T2 Dark Warrior Limited Edition launched in Malaysia 

Jetour Malaysia launched a new special edition of the T2 this week, called the Jetour T2 Dark Warrior Limited Edition. Limited to only 69 units, this special Jetour T2 features an exclusive matte-black exterior finish with blacked-out Jetour logos and T2 badging. The Dark Warrior Package includes a guard rail, a bespoke front grille, a modular side ladder, a Warrior roof rack, stealth emblems, and a side hanging plate. The Jetour T2 Dark Warrior Limited Edition is priced at RM 167,600, making it RM 10,800 dearer than the standard model.

GWM ORA 5 HEV previewed again in Malaysia ahead of Q4 launch

After giving us a detailed look at the Ora 5 HEV during the 2026 KLIMS event, Great Wall Motors Malaysia previewed the upcoming compact crossover once again this week. While the full local specifications and pricing have yet to be announced, the automaker has confirmed the model will use the brand’s new Hi2 Intelligent Hybrid Technology, combining a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT). The setup will deliver a combined output of 223 PS and 476 Nm and consume just 4.4 litres per 100 km, enabling the vehicle to run for more than 1,100 km on a single tank. The GWM Ora 5 features an award-winning design inspired by nature and a wide range of intelligent technologies.

Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram Series debuts in Malaysia

The more luxurious and exclusive version of the Mercedes-Benz SL roadster, the Mercedes-Maybach SL680 Monogram, made its way to Malaysia this week. The Maybach SL680 Monogram is initially offered in two Maybach two-tone colour combinations - White Ambience and Red Ambience, with an estimated price of RM 2.25 million. This ultra-exclusive two-seater model features extensive Maybach detailing and a quieter, handcrafted interior. It comes equipped with a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine generating 585 hp and 800 Nm of torque, enabling the vehicle to hit the century sprint in 4.1 seconds. Also part of the kit is a 4matic+ all-wheel-drive system, a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Maybach-tuned suspension system.

All-new Volvo EX90 ROI opens in Malaysia

Volvo Car Malaysia has started accepting registrations of interest for the upgraded EX90. Expected to launch soon, the new Volvo EX90 will bring a range of meaningful upgrades, including the new 800V electrical architecture, which supports faster 350 kW DC charging (up from 240 kW with the 400V setup). Along with that, it offers more power, better acceleration and the latest active safety systems inside and out. The Twin Motor AWD trim now churns out 680 PS (up from 517 PS) and accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.2 seconds (0.7 seconds quicker)

Maserati appoints Atlantis Automobili as its new distributor in Malaysia

Maserati has started a new chapter in Malaysia, with Atlantis Automobili now taking care of the Italian luxury automaker in the country. Atlantis Automobili is a part of Atlantis Motor Group, which also handles the distribution of Alfa Romeo in Malaysia. It will assume full responsibility for Maserati's operations in Malaysia, covering sales, aftersales, customer experience, brand development, and network operations. The company will be making a series of strategic investments, including a new product portfolio, new facilities, and customer initiatives to further strengthen the brand’s presence in Malaysia. It is also committed to providing ongoing support and assistance to existing Maserati owners throughout the transition period. 

New Hyundai 4S centre opens in Penang

Hyundai Motor Malaysia has opened a new 4S centre in Juru, Pulau Pinang. Operated by Goh Brothers Motor Sdn Bhd, the new facility offers a comprehensive range of services (sales, service, spare parts, and body & paint) under one roof. It features a spacious display area showcasing Hyundai’s full core lineup, including the Santa Fe, Tucson, and Staria, and the brand’s N lineup, including the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N.

New MG 3S centre opens in Rawang

SAIC Motor Malaysia has strengthened MG’s growing sales and aftersales network in the country, with the opening of its first MG 3S centre in Rawang. Operated by SNS Kembara Utama, the new facility is strategically located within the Rawang Hi-Tech Industrial Area. It initially provides sales services, with aftersales services to be introduced once the service centre is completed and fully operational. The centre houses a spacious vehicle display area and a dedicated customer lounge with Wi-Fi, coffee, and snacks. 

PRO-NET to open e.MAS branded EV charging stations soon

Proton’s NEV arm, Pro-Net, has entered into strategic partnerships with three leading EV charging point operators in Malaysia - DC Handal, JomCharge and chargEV, to introduce e.MAS-branded charging stations across the country. The nationwide rollout of e.MAS branded charging stations is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026. The stations will be located at strategic, high-traffic public locations, where customers regularly travel and spend time. The Proton e.MAS owners will enjoy discounted charging rates at participating stations.

Kymco XCITING VS 400 scooter launched in Malaysia

 Malaysia gets a new sport-touring maxi-scooter in the form of the Kymco XCITING VS 400. Designed for both city commuting and weekend adventures, the latest Kymco model is priced at RM 27,988. It features a modern and dynamic look combining futuristic styling with advanced engineering for a premium riding experience. At the core lies a 400-cc, liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine that generates 33.4 hp at 7,250 rpm and 37.5 Nm at 5,750 rpm. Key highlights include - LED lighting, an adjustable windscreen, a sport-styled LED digital display, 15-inch front and 14-inch rear wheels, a traction control system, and a dual-channel ABS.

New MODA Sporter-S SKII up for grabs in Malaysia 

MODA has expanded its lineup in Malaysia with the launch of a new maxi-scooter, the Sporter-S SKII. It is an upgraded version of the Sporter-S, featuring a more aggressive appearance, improved technology, comfort and practicality. The scooter is powered by a 244-cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, which generates 24.8 hp at 8,500 rpm and 22.5 Nm at 6,500 rpm. Key upgrades include - new aerodynamic winglets, alloy racing-style side mirrors, an improved rear shock suspension system, a new 7-inch TFT touchscreen, an electronically adjustable windshield, and a new HD front dashcam. The MODA Sporter-S SKII is priced at RM 17,998 (excluding road tax, insurance or registration) in Malaysia. 

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

Road-Legal Defender Dakar unveiled, to be offered in limited quantity  

Defender introduced a road-legal version of its Dakar Rally-winning D7X-R competition car, called the Defender Dakar at Monterey Car Week. Based on the high-performance Defender Octa, the road-going model retains the rally car’s body architecture, a 635 hp 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and transmission. It benefits from rally-inspired chassis upgrades, including a wider track, increased ride height, 25-inch all-terrain tyres, Bilstein Advanced dampers, and new Dunes, Gravel and Flight modes. Registrations for the limited-run Defender Dakar will open in early 2027, with pricing and full specifications to be announced closer to launch.

2027 Hyundai Tucson revealed with a range of upgrades

Hyundai has pulled the wraps off the next-gen Tucson in the global market. Based on the new ‘Art of Steel” design language, the upgraded model looks boxier and more rugged than the predecessor. It features an upright profile, H-shaped lighting signatures, body cladding, skid plates and prominent wheel arches. The fifth-gen model is also longer and wider and has a stretched wheelbase, which promises more cabin space and improved second-row headroom. The interior gets a cleaner dashboard layout with a slim driver display, a large central touchscreen, and practical storage solutions. As for drivetrain specifications, Hyundai has not confirmed anything yet, but we can expect petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. 

Aston Martin Valen breaks cover

The Aston Martin Valen has made its official debut as the brand’s most powerful front-engined production car at the 2026 Monterey Car Week. Limited to just 150 units nationwide, the supercar features carbon-fibre bodywork, magnesium wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, Bilstein adaptive dampers and a specially tuned titanium exhaust. It is powered by a 5.2-litre twin-turbo V12 engine, producing up to 850 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission, enabling the vehicle to run from zero to 100 kmph in just 3.1 seconds. The deliveries of the Aston Martin Valen are expected to begin in the second quarter of 2027.

Mitsubishi Ralliart wins at Asia Cross Country Rally in Thailand

Mitsubishi Ralliart has just won one of Asia’s toughest off-road competitions, the Asia Cross Country Rally, demonstrating the Triton's off-road capabilities. The 31st edition of the Asia Cross Country Rally was held in Thailand from August 9 to 15, where Team Mitsubishi Ralliart marked its second consecutive victory, following its 2025 win. The rally covered a total distance of 2,145.19 km, including 921.80 km of Special Stages. The Japanese driver Katsuhiko Taguchi and co-driver Takahiro Yasui secured the overall victory, becoming the first Japanese driver and co-driver pair to win the AXCR overall. They completed the competitive sessions in 12 hours, 58 minutes and 20 seconds, grabbing the title by a margin of 2 minutes and 25 seconds. 

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

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