Weekly wrap-up: Proton e.MAS 5 EV, Tank 500 Black Edition launched, New Proton Saga revealed, and more

This week was packed with one big automotive moment after another. From Proton finally launching Malaysia's most affordable EV to GWM rolling out a special edition of the Tank 500, it’s been eventful. We also witnessed the previews of the all-new Saga and the iCaur V23, along with several other exciting updates. Meanwhile, the global auto industry also witnessed several noteworthy reveals at the Japan Mobility Show 2025.

Here’s a quick recap of all the top auto news of the week.

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Proton e.MAS 5 EV launched at RM 56,800

The much-awaited Proton e.MAS 5 has finally hit the roads with an aggressive price tag ranging from RM 59,800 and RM 72,800. With an introductory rebate of RM 3,000 (valid until 31 December 2025), prices are lowered to RM 56,800 and RM 69,800. The EV is offered in two variants - Prime and Premium, equipped with a rear wheel drive motor and a 30.12 kWh or 40.16 kWh battery pack, offering a driving range of 225 or 325 km. The e.MAS 5 is currently offered as a fully imported model from China, with the CKD version set to arrive soon.

All-new 2026 Proton Saga previewed; launch expected soon

Alongside the e.MAS 5, Proton also unveiled the all-new Saga without any camouflage at the 47th ASEAN Summit this week. The upgraded Saga is the first model to be fully designed, engineered, and validated by Malaysian talent with technical collaboration from Geely. It boasts a new Advanced Modular Architecture, refreshed styling, new interior displays and advanced technology. Expected to launch later this year, the 2026 Proton Saga is expected to get a new 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine replacing the long-running 1.3-litre VVT unit.

GWM Tank 500 HEV Black Edition arrives in Malaysia

GWM Malaysia has rolled out an exciting black iteration of the Tank 500. This exclusive model takes premium ruggedness to a darker, more distinctive level while delivering a commanding new look exuding sophistication and strength. Extensive blacked-out exterior trims include - black grille, black badges, black roof rails, black side steps, and black 20-inch wheels. The GWM Tank 500 HEV Black Edition is priced at RM 336,800, which makes it RM 8,000 dearer than the standard iteration. 

GAC M8 PHEV MPV launched in Malaysia

Previewed at the 2025 MAS event, the GAC M8 has made its way to local roads as Malaysia’s first flagship PHEV MPV. It is offered in two variants - Premium and Luxury, priced at RM 328,800 and RM 388,800, respectively. The MPV features a powerful and boxy design and a luxurious interior with high-quality leather, soft-touch surfaces, captain chairs in the second row, and tons of creature comforts. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and a 25.57 kWh battery pack, offering a pure EV range of 120 km.

iCAUR V23 off-road EV debuts in Malaysia; bookings open

iCAUR Malaysia previewed its latest all-electric off-road SUV, the V23, at the vibrant Starhill, Kuala Lumpur, this week, and started accepting its bookings. Set for launch in Q4 2025, the iCAUR V23 is offered in both rear-wheel-drive and intelligent all-wheel-drive (iWD) configurations, estimatedly priced at RM 145,000 and RM 155,000, respectively. The SUV features a retro-inspired modern design, adventure-ready capability, and intelligent technology packages, making it ideal for both urban commutes and adventurous escapes. The 2WD can go up to 401 km (CLTC), on a single charge, while the iWD variant promises up to 501 km (CLTC).

2025 Subaru Forester launched in Malaysia

Subaru Malaysia has launched the all-new sixth-gen Forester in a sole 2.5i-S EyeSight CBU variant, priced at RM 221,500 (on-the-road without insurance). The upgraded model underpins an enhanced Subaru Global Platform, offering better ride comfort and reduced noise. The exterior features a bolder and boxier appearance with cleaner bumper designs and rugged fenders, while the interior benefits from a redesigned dashboard incorporating an 11.6-inch Starlink infotainment unit and EyeSight 4.0 safety suite. The new Forester runs on a 185 PS/247 Nm 2.5 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder boxer engine paired to Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT gearbox, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, and dual-function X-Mode. 

MG5 X Edition and MG4 101 Edition debut in Malaysia

MG introduced two new special edition models in Malaysia this week - the MG5 X Edition and the MG4 101 Edition. Priced at RM 96,388, the MG5 X Edition features gloss black exterior accents, “X Edition” scuff plates and a dashcam (with a 64 GB SD card). The quantity is limited to 300 units. The MG4 101 Edition, on the other hand, celebrates the brand’s 101st anniversary with exclusive highlights like Union Jack roof design, exclusive “One of one” decal, and a white ‘101 Edition’ decal under the side mirror.

Ferrari 296 Speciale launched in Malaysia

Ferrari has launched the all-new ultra-exclusive 296 Speciale in Malaysia, carrying a whopping price tag of RM 4,288,000 including import duties (excluding options, registration and insurance). The supercar features several exciting upgrades, such as race-derived aerodynamics, revised suspension setup, carbon-fibre body components, and an advanced braking system with a 6D sensor. It is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 880 hp. Performance numbers include - 0 - 100 kmph in 2.8 seconds, 0-200 kmph in 7.0 seconds, and a top speed of 330 kmph. All the units of this limited-series model are already snapped up.

MG S5 EV price slashed in Malaysia

SAIC Motor has also revised the MG S5 pricing in Malaysia, making it RM 8,000 more affordable than before. The MG S5  is now priced at RM 107,900 for the COM, RM 117,900 for the COM Long Range, and RM 127,900 for the LUX Long Range. Customers buying the EV can further save up to RM 10,000, with the “MG Ultimate Ownership Package,” offering a free 7kW AC Wall box charger or the option to select charging credits. This price reduction reiterates the brand’s confidence in the local EV market as it accelerates towards local assembly in 2026.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

New Toyota concepts revealed at Japan Mobility Show 2025

Toyota has introduced several exciting concept models at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, offering a glimpse into its future direction. Some of the important ones are - 

• 2026 Toyota RAV4: Toyota showcased the latest generation of the RAV4 mid-size SUV, featuring its latest TNGA platform, new electrified mills and Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 with advanced driver-assist functions.

• Toyota Corolla Concept: Toyota introduced the Corolla Concept, hinting at a significant refresh of the long-running nameplate. It represents a more personalised, “for you” philosophy and supports Toyota’s multi-pathway approach, with options for battery electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid, and internal combustion powertrains.

• Toyota “To You” Concept: Toyota also unveiled the “To You” Concept, which is a next-generation take on the Hiace/van segment designed to serve individuals and small businesses through modular flexibility. 

Lexus LS Concept breaks cover with six wheels 

Lexus has rolled out a radically reimagined  LS concept, featuring six wheels (two front and four smaller rear wheels) and a whole new luxury vision. Inside, it boasts a “luxury lounge sanctuary”-style cabin with a minimalist dashboard, a yoke-type steering wheel, ottoman seats, and wide glass surfaces. While Lexus has not yet confirmed production plans, the LS Concept serves as a preview of the brand’s future design and technology direction.

New Mazda Vision concepts debut in Japan

Two new Mazda vision concepts, the Vision X-Coupe and the Vision X-Compact, made their official debut at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show. The Mazda Vision X-Coupe is a sports coupe, while the Vision X-Compact is a small crossover with dimensions similar to the Mazda 2. While the coupe is equipped with a plug-in hybrid system, combining a two-rotor rotary turbo engine and an electric motor, there are no drivetrain specs yet available for the compact model. Both concepts feature carbon-neutral fuel derived from microalgae, combined with “Mazda Mobile Carbon Capture” tech that helps reduce the vehicle’s overall carbon footprint.

This is BYD’s first Kei car made for Japan, the Racco 

BYD has pulled the wraps off its first-ever kei-car for Japan, named Racco. Designed for urban commuters, the vehicle measures 3.4 m in length and 1.48 m in width, and features a tall, boxy design with sliding doors. While official specs are yet to be announced, the EV is likely to come equipped with a 20 kWh LFP “Blade” battery, offering a WLTC range of about 180 km. Set to launch next year, the BYD Racco will be sold exclusively in Japan (for now), showing the brand’s long-term commitment to the market.

Honda 0 Alpha EV prototype revealed in Tokyo

Honda also made waves at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 by unveiling a cyberpunk-styled SUV prototype, called the Honda 0 Alpha. It is a part of Honda’s 0 Series electric vehicle lineup and focuses on blending urban practicality with outdoor versatility. Instead of conventional grille and headlamps, the front end of this striking prototype incorporates an integrated screen-like panel with a charging port lid and an illuminated Honda badge. Touted as a “gateway model,” the Honda 0 Alpha will be launching globally in 2027 (initially in Japan and India)

Mitsubishi Elevance concept showcased at Japan Mobility Show 2025

Mitsubishi also took the centre stage at the Tokyo auto show with the unveiling of the Elevance plug-in hybrid SUV  concept. Built for adventure, the SUV is equipped with a quad-motor electric drive system combined with a petrol mill that can run on carbon-neutral fuel. The SUV has a bold and rugged exterior design with a strong body architecture and high ground clearance. Inside, there are three rows of seating, a wide dashboard screen setup, and an “AI Co-Driver” system. While production plans are yet to be confirmed, the Mitsubishi Elevance shows the brand’s commitment to electrified, adventure-ready SUVs.

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

Also read: Toyota Hilux – Malaysia’s Undefeated Pickup Legend