Weekly wrap-up: Perodua QV-E launched, Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV previewed, Kia announces direct operations in Malaysia, and more

This week was kick-started with the arrival of Perodua’s first-ever electric vehicle, the QV-E, in Malaysia, followed by the preview of the upcoming Proton model, the e.MAS 7 PHEV. Along with that, the new Lexus GX and Mercedes-Maybach S580 4Matic Night Series also made their way to the local market. In the meantime, the global auto arena witnessed a few big reveals. In case you missed out on the top auto news of the week, here’s a detailed recap for you.

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Perodua QV-E launched as Malaysia’s first homegrown EV

Perodua has finally pulled the wraps off its first-ever electric vehicle, the QV-E (Quest for Visionary Electric Vehicle). Touted as Malaysia’s first homegrown EV, the vehicle is equipped with a 52.5-kW Lithium Iron Phosphate battery pack, offering a driving range capacity of up to 445 Km (NEDC). The Perodua QV-E is priced at RM 80,000 (without insurance & battery); the battery is leased separately under a mandatory 9-year Battery-as-a-Service contract at RM 275 monthly. Key features include - all-around LED lighting, two 10.25-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, and Perodua Smart Drive Assist.

Mercedes-Maybach S580 4Matic Night Series launched in Malaysia

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has launched the all-new Mercedes-Maybach S580 4Matic Night Series, with a starting price of RM 2,404,888. This bold new version of the S-Class features exclusive darkened design elements, representing the highest standards of exclusivity. Among the exquisite details are dark shadow gloss accents, DIGITAL LIGHT headlamps adorned with rose gold detailing, 20-inch Maybach 7-spoke light-alloy wheels, “Garnet Glow” interior colour scheme, a black crystal-look centre console, and illuminated “MAYBACH Night Series” door sills. It is powered by a 4.0-litre bi-turbo V8 petrol engine with a 48-volt EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox, and 4Matic all-wheel drive.

New Lexus GX launched in Malaysia at RM 780k

Lexus has expanded its lineup in Malaysia with the introduction of the all-new GX. The upgraded model underpins a new GA-F platform and features a striking exterior along with a refined, luxurious interior. It is offered in two fully-imported variants from Japan, priced at RM 780,000 and RM 830,000. Both trims are powered by a 3.5-litre turbocharged V6 engine generating a maximum power of 354 PS and a peak torque of 650 Nm. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic gearbox. The fuel consumption is rated at 12.3 litres per 100 km. 

Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV previewed at Proton Tech Showcase event 

Proton has kicked off an exciting three-day event titled ‘Proton Tech Showcase’ at its Centre of Excellence (COE) facility in Subang Jaya, displaying the brand’s next-gen technologies and offering a sneak peek of its upcoming model, the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV. Set to arrive early next year, the plug-in hybrid vehicle is a rebadged version of the Geely Starship 7. It is powered by a 1.5‑litre naturally aspirated four‑cylinder engine delivering 111 PS/136 Nm, mated to a 12‑to‑1 electrified dedicated hybrid transmission. The event also allows visitors to go for a taxi ride on Proton’s first semi high-speed test track.

Kia shifts to a direct principal-led model in Malaysia

Kia has shifted to a direct principal-led model in Malaysia, concluding its strategic partnership with Bermaz Auto Berhad (Bermaz) after four years. The automaker has established its National Sales Company, Kia Sales Malaysia Sdn Bhd, which will manage nationwide sales, after-sales, training and all wholesale and retail operations for Kia vehicles from January 2026. Hyung Ho Kim will lead Kia Sales Malaysia Sdn Bhd as President and CEO, with Emily Lek as Managing Director. Under the new principal-led move, Kia will enhance its dealer network and after-sales investments, along with new model launches. 

UMW Toyota opens two new centres in Johor

UMW Toyota has upgraded its Kluang facility and has opened a new outlet in Nusajaya. The Toyota Kluang outlet, managed by Hong Huat Automobile Sdn Bhd, now operates as a fully integrated, purpose-built 4S centre, offering sales, service, spare parts and body & paint under one roof. The Toyota Nusajaya centre, on the other hand, is a 3S centre operated by Super Evergreen (Nusajaya) Sdn Bhd, offering a contemporary, welcoming showroom environment and a well-equipped service centre. The Japanese automaker sold a total of 8,574 units in Malaysia, bringing year-to-date sales to 88,133 units. 

New MINI showroom opens in Ipoh 

Tian Siang Premium Auto has opened a new standalone MINI showroom in Ipoh, Perak. It spans across 6,500 sq ft and incorporates a spacious display area that can showcase up to five display units. The new MINI centre is equipped with two 180 kW DC chargers (rates starting at RM 1.70 per kWh) and two 22 kW AC chargers (free of charge). It is located at No. 87, Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 30100, Ipoh, Perak, and operates daily between 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM on Saturdays, and from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sundays and public holidays.

Naza Italia to end Maserati distributorship

Naza Italia has formally notified Maserati S.p.A. of its intention to discontinue the Importership and Distributorship Agreement for Maserati vehicles in Malaysia. The contract termination follows the 180-day notice requirement under the Agreement dated 1 January 2009. Naza Italia ensures to provide all after-sales services and support to existing customers during the transition period. No new Maserati distributor in Malaysia has been officially announced yet.  

HMY launches year-end sales and service campaigns 

Hyundai Motor Malaysia has announced two exciting year-end promotions - the myHyundaiCare service campaign and a year-end sales campaign. Running from 1 December 2025 to 31 January 2026, myHyundaiCare offers complimentary vehicle inspection and 20% off for engine oil and oil filter (exclusive to Shell) to customers upon getting their Hyundai vehicle serviced at any of the brand’s authorised service centres. The Hyundai Motor Malaysia year-end sales campaign, on the other hand, offers up to 10% instant savings or exclusive rewards for long-term ownership value.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

Meet Toyota’s new flagship sports car, the GR GT 

Toyota Gazoo Racing unveiled a brand-new supercar this week, the GR GT. Developed from scratch as a road-legal car, the GR GT is a two-seater vehicle, positioned as a halo supercar. It is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo hybrid V8 engine, kicking out a maximum power of 650 PS and a peak torque of 850 Nm. The supercar is built on an aluminium frame with carbon-fibre-reinforced panels and features an aerodynamic, low-slung, long-hood design. The driver-focused minimalistic interior incorporates bucket-style seats, physical controls, prioritising function over form.

Lexus LFA Concept revealed globally

Lexus has revived the LFA nameplate as a fully electric supercar concept. Based on an aluminium-intensive chassis, the vehicle combines modern structure and an electric powertrain system. It inherits and evolves the LFA’s spirit with a bespoke exterior design and a futuristic cockpit, featuring a race-car-type steering wheel and digital controls. At the core lies a solid-slate battery pack, which is expected to offer higher energy density and greater power and range compared to conventional battery packs.

Kia EV2 teased, debut set for January 2026

Kia is set to launch its highly anticipated EV2 at the Brussels Motor Show on January 9, 2026. Positioned as the entry-level EV in the brand’s lineup, the Kia EV2 features a boxy and compact shape with upright proportions, chunky cladding and a rugged modern stance. The electric crossover is likely to come with a 400V electric platform and 40-50 kWh battery options mated to a single motor setup. The driving range is expected to be around 350-400 km, making it a practical EV for daily commuting. 

Nissan Kait debuts in Latin America as the Kicks replacement 

The all-new Nissan Kait has made its official debut in Latin America as the global successor to the Kicks. While retaining the same platform and engine layout as the Kicks, the SUV features a refreshed design with a larger grille, sharper LED headlights, a new tail lamp design, and several cabin-level upgrades. Under the bonnet lies a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine tuned to deliver 110 hp and 146 Nm of torque. With production already started in Brazil, the Nissan Kait will be exported to over 20 countries. 

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

Also read: 2026 Proton Saga variants explained – Which one should you choose?