Weekly wrap-up: Malaysia Autoshow 2025 concluded, Honda’s first EV launched, and more

It’s been quite an exciting week for automotive enthusiasts, with the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 bringing all the thrills, from exciting launches to interactive exhibits and innovative technologies. This was followed by the launch of the highly anticipated Honda e:N1 electric SUV, which targets the urban mobility landscape. Meanwhile, the global auto industry enjoyed a few big reveals and exciting scoops on the upcoming models. 

Here’s a recap of all the major happenings from last week that you could have missed out on:

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Malaysia Autoshow 2025 concluded

Began on May 9, the adrenaline-filled Malaysia Autoshow 2024 has drawn to a close this week. At this 7-day long event, major car brands showcased their newest and most exciting vehicles, attracting more than 200,000 visitors. Some of the key highlights include - 

• ​​Proton: Proton took centre stage with its second electric car, the e.MAS 5. Positioned below the e.MAS 7, the new Proton SUV is an electric hatchback, expected to launch in Q4 2025.
• Perodua: Perodua teased the final prototype version of its first-ever EV in a half-cut form at the event. Set to launch later this year, the Perodua EV is expected to cost less than RM 100k.

• Jetour: Jetour took the MAS 2025 as an opportunity to launch its second model, the VT9. It is a 7-seater D-segment SUV, offered in two variants - Comfort and Prime, priced at 119,350 and RM 124,350. The Jetour T2 and eVT5 SUVs were also previewed.
• Audi: PHS Automotive has finally launched the new Audi Q7 CKD in Malaysia. It is offered in a sole S-Line 3.0 TFSI quattro, priced at RM 482,422.
• GWM: Great Wall Motors launched its full-size hybrid SUV, the Tank 500, at the event. Priced at RM 328,800, the 7-seater model combines premium features, off-road capability, and better fuel efficiency.

• Zeekr: Geely’s premium sub-brand Zeekr previewed its upcoming electric SUV, the Zeekr 7X and introduced a new variant of the 009 MPV, called 009 Executive.
• Jaecoo & Omoda: Jaecoo announced its refreshed brand image at the MAS 2025. It will now be recognised and known as Omoda | Jaecoo. The automaker also previewed the upcoming Omoda C7 PHEV during the event.
• Chery: Chery steals the spotlight with its newest SUV, the Tiggo Cross. Set to launch later this year, it is a hybrid SUV that promises to offer an impressive mileage of 19 kmpl.

• Smart: Smart’s largest and most advanced electric SUV, the #5, made its Malaysian debut at MAS 2025 along with the smart #1 BRABUS Limited Edition.
• Wuling: SAIC GM’s Wuling brand made its first public appearance at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025. It previewed the Bingo compact electric SUV, set to launch in Q4 2025.
• Volkswagen: Volkswagen introduced the Wolfsburg Edition versions of the Arteon R-Line, Tiguan Allspace Elegance, and Tiguan Allspace R-Line, along with the Golf GTI Black Edition.
• GAC: GAC Motor and Aion captivated visitor’s attention with the GAC M8 plug-in hybrid MPV and Aion V and Hyptec HT electric cars.

• iCAUR: A new Chinese EV brand called iCaur (known as iCar in China) also grabbed the attention at MAS 2025. Born from a partnership between Chery and Smartmi Tech, iCaur previewed three models - iCaur 03, iCaur 03T, and iCaur V23.
• BMW & MINI: BMW Malaysia launched the all-new BMW 330Li M Sport, featuring a refreshed design, reimagined interior elements and enhanced features. MINI showcases the three stunning John Cooper Works (JCW) models along with the new Cooper Convertible. 

Along with these car models, a number of exciting two-wheelers were also launched at Malaysia's premier automotive event. These include - 

• BMW R 1300 GS Adventure
• Royal Enfield Bear 650 & Classic 650
• Modenas MEV-2 and MEV-1 
• Kymco DTX 250 
• Kawasaki Ninja H2SX SE 
• Honda CB1000 SP
• Vespa Sprint Tech
• New Yamaha XMax and TMax Tech Max 
• Zontes 368D, 368E and 703F 
• Lambretta X300 GT and G350 Series II 

Honda e:N1 launched in Malaysia 

Honda has finally brought its first electric car, the e:N1 on the Malaysian shores. Built by Dongfeng Honda Automobile in China, the Honda e:N1 is offered as a CBU unit here, priced at RM 149,900 (on the road without insurance). With dimensions identical to the Honda HR-V, the EV underpins the brand’s front-wheel drive e:N Architecture F platform. It is powered by a single electric motor producing a maximum power of 204 PS and a peak torque of 310 Nm. Feeding the motor is a 68.8 kWh NMC battery that offers a WLTP-claimed driving range of up to 412 km.

MG S5 EV launch date announced

After previewing the S5 EV at the recently concluded MAS 2025, MG Motor Malaysia is finally ready to launch the electric SUV on May 20. The MG S5 will be offered in two variants here - Com and Lux, both powered by a 170 PS/250 Nm electric motor driving the rear wheels (touted as the only RWD EV in its class). As for the battery pack, there are two options available - a 49 kWh unit offering up to 340 km of WLTP-rated range, or a larger 62 kWh unit capable of 430 km. The MG S5 EV estimated price tag reads RM 115,000.

Stellantis Malaysia offers affordable Eurorepar car parts

Stellantis has introduced its in-house multi-brand aftermarket parts range, Eurorepar, at the ongoing Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2025. It offers a comprehensive selection of over 17,000 automotive product references, including tyres, spare parts, accessories, oils and other consumables. Along with that, the automaker also introduced Eurorepar Car Service, a multi-brand workshop network. Operating in over 30 countries with around 6,500 service outlets, it provides expert repair and maintenance solutions for both Stellantis brand vehicles and those from various other manufacturers.

Proton Xchange Programme rolls out for sustainable mobility

Proton has rolled out a vehicle scrappage programme to support the government’s initiative of enhancing road safety and promoting sustainable mobility. Called the Proton Xchange, the initiative encourages owners of old vehicles (15 years or older, which are deemed uneconomical to repair) to exchange them for a new Proton model. The automaker joins hands with Car Medic Sdn Bhd, an authorised automotive treatment facility (AATF), to run this programme. It offers an RM 2,000 rebate to eligible owners towards purchasing a new Proton, including the e.MAS 7 EV. Notably, the programme is open to owners of all cars regardless of brand.

PRO-NET teams up with Shell Recharge to enhance EV charging convenience 

PRO-NET has joined hands with Shell Recharge to simplify EV charging for Malaysian drivers. Through this collaboration, Proton e.MAS and smart EV users can now locate and pay for EV charging at Shell Recharge stations nationwide via the Proton e.MAS and Hello smart apps.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

Nissan reveals its bold Re:Nissan recovery plan 

Nissan has been facing some challenging times recently, from decreasing sales to job cuts and management restructuring. But now it seems that the Japan-based automaker is ready to make a strong comeback. It has announced a bold recovery plan, called Re:Nissan, which aims at total cost savings of JPY 500 billion (approx. RM14 billion) to earn profits and free up cash flow by 2026. The company will reduce its workforce by 20,000 and plants from 17 to 10 by FY 2027.

2026 Toyota bZ Woodland EV revealed

Toyota has introduced an all-new bZ Woodland EV for adventure lovers in the US market. It is touted as the brand’s toughest electric SUV ever, featuring all-wheel drivetrain, all-terrain tyres and X-MODE terrain management. The EV delivers a combined system output of 375 PS and cruises up to 418 km on a single charge. The ground clearance measures 210 mm while the towing capacity is estimated at 1,588 kg. Set to hit the US showrooms next year, the Toyota bZ Woodland EV will be offered in a single variant.

Chery to develop national BEV brand in Thailand

Chery has partnered with the Thai government to develop a national battery electric vehicle brand, in line with the country’s aim to become a BEV production hub in the ASEAN region. Under this collaboration, the proposed BEV brand will promote domestic BEV technology capabilities, support domestic parts manufacturers and target domestic and export markets. The manufacturing facility will be established in Rayong province, with an annual production capacity of 50,000 vehicles initially.

Aston Martin launches Apple CarPlay Ultra

Aston Martin has become the world’s first car brand to introduce Apple CarPlay Ultra, setting a new benchmark for in-car smartphone integration. Along with the central touchscreen, the latest tech extends the interface to the digital instrument cluster, offering a familiar iOS-style layout across multiple displays. The new DBX, DB12, Vantage, and Vanquish are now offered with the next-gen interface in the USA and Canada. The global rollout of the Aston Martin Apple CarPlay Ultra is expected over the next 12 months.

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

Also read: Jetour VT9 vs Proton X90: Spec-to-spec comparison