Weekly wrap-up - Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV, new Dongfeng EVs launched, Mitsubishi Xforce, new Proton S70 bookings open, and more

The past seven days continued the busy momentum in the Malaysian automotive industry, with a slew of launches, including the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV, Dongfeng 007, Dongfeng Vigo and new Volkswagen Golf R-Line. Additionally, bookings opened for the Mitsubishi Xforce and the new Proton S70. As for the international market, a few big reveals and major announcements kept the show running.  

Here, we bring a quick recap of all the top auto news that stole the spotlight during the week.

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV launched in Malaysia

After disrupting Malaysia's BEV market in 2025, Proton has entered the hybrid category with the launch of the e.MAS 7 PHEV. The latest model is offered in three variants - Prime, Premium, and Premium Plus, priced between RM 109,800 and RM 129,800. At the core lies a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine combined with a front-mounted e-motor, generating a combined system output of 262 PS and 262 Nm.  Depending on the variant, the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV comes equipped with an 18.4 kWh or 29.8 kWh battery pack, offering an all-electric range of 105 km and 170 km, respectively.

Dongfeng 007 and Vigo EVs arrive in Malaysia

Dongfeng has expanded its lineup in Malaysia with the launch of the two new EVs - 007 electric sedan and the Vigo electric SUV. It marks the beginning of a new phase in the brand’s local journey as Volt Auto partners with Central Auto Distributors Bhd. Key highlights are -

• Dongfeng 007: It is a mid-size sedan, featuring a sleek liftback silhouette, futuristic design, and long driving range (up to 650 km). Rivalling the likes of the BYD Seal, the 007 is offered in two variants -  Premium and Prime, priced at RM 169,888 and RM 195,888, respectively. The top-spec version, powered by a dual-motor all-wheel drive setup, completes the century sprint in 3.9 seconds. 

• Dongfeng Vigo: It is a C-segment electric SUV that boasts a rugged yet modern design. Priced at RM 108,888, the Vigo is powered by a FWD electric motor tied with a 51.87 kWh LFP battery pack that delivers a CLTC-rated range of 471 km. 

New Volkswagen Golf R-Line launched in Malaysia

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia has launched the all-new Golf R-Line, locally assembled in Pekan. The new hatchback is priced at RM 185,990 (inclusive of the Volkswagen Assurance Package); however, an early bird promo, available for the first 50 owners, brings the price down to RM 179,990. It is powered by a 1.5 eTSI mild-hybrid turbo engine tuned to make 150 PS and 250 Nm, paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch DSG, driving the front wheels. 

Mitsubishi Xforce previewed in Malaysia, bookings open 

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia has started accepting orders for its upcoming B-segment SUV, the Xforce, expected to launch in April 2026. The Mitsubishi Xforce is offered in two variants - Urban and Ultimate, with estimated pricing of RM 110,000 and RM 120,000, respectively. The automaker has also announced an early bird promo, offering a cash rebate of RM 5,000 (first 1,000 customers), along with a buy-one-free-one contest campaign. Powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, the first Mitsubishi Xforce has officially rolled off the assembly line in Pekan, Pahang.

2026 Proton S70 revealed ahead of launch

Proton has revealed the all-new S70 ahead of the official launch scheduled for February 11. The upgraded sedan benefits from a new 1.5-litre turbocharged i-GT 1.5-litre engine, generating a maximum power of 181 PS (+ 31 PS) and a peak torque of 290 Nm (+ 64 Nm). Also new for 2026 are new wheels, a new sport body kit, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Interested folks can book the all-new Proton S70, starting from February 7, 2026, with a booking fee of RM 500, at authorised Proton 3S/4S showrooms nationwide. 

Jetour gets a new logo in Malaysia, T2 launching soon 

Ahead of launching the T2 all-terrain SUV, Jetour has unveiled a new logo for Malaysia, marking a new phase in the brand’s evolution. Inspired by the Chinese character “行” (xing), the refreshed logo symbolises “moving forward steadily.” Currently, the brand has a total of 31 dealerships across 13 key states and regions in the country, and this will be expanded to 50 outlets by the end of 2026. Expected to launch in Q1 2026, bookings of the Jeotour T2 are already open at all authorised Jetour dealerships nationwide with an estimated starting price of RM 178,888.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia welcomes Martin Schulz as new CEO

Martin Schulz is the new CEO & President of Mercedes-Benz Cars Malaysia, effective from February 1, 2026. He succeeded Amanda Zhang, who remains on the company’s Board of Directors as a Senior Adviser. Martin will also lead a newly integrated Mercedes-Benz Cars Southeast Asia region, covering Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Proton reveals January 2026 sales numbers

Proton has revealed its group sales figures for January 2026. During the first month of the year, the national automaker sold a total of 19,833 units, marking the company’s best monthly sales in 15 years. This represents a month-on-month increase of 35.3% over December 2025 and a 100% year-on-year growth over 9,918 units sold in January 2025. Proton’s market share is estimated to be 30.6%, another high point since January 2012. The Saga made a new monthly sales record of 10,285 units. 

Brixton Storr 500 launched in Malaysia

Malaysia welcomed a retro adventure-styled motorcycle this week, called the Brixton Storr 500. Dubbed as “The Iron Grasshopper,” the latest Brixton motorcycle boasts a tough and purposeful look with an upright and aggressive silhouette and a tall stance. It comes equipped with a 486-cc twin-cylinder engine (producing 46.9 hp and 43 Nm), modern electronics, and three storage boxes. Priced at RM 29,888, the Brixton Storr 500 is offered in three hues -Black, Green, and Yellow. 

Malaysia gets a new 150-cc scooter, the WMoto Island 150

Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd has expanded the WMoto range in Malaysia with the introduction of a new scooter, called the Island 150. Priced at RM 6,688, the two-wheeler is powered by a 150-cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine, delivering a maximum power of 15.4 hp and a peak torque of 14.2 Nm. Key highlights include - CVT gearbox, all-around LED  lighting, a digital instrument panel, keyless entry system, tyre pressure monitoring system, and a two-channel ABS. Colour options include Aura Black, Action Blue, and Prime Grey.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

Bentley Bentayga-Based X Concept breaks cover

Bentley has introduced a new off-road-focused concept based on the Bentayga Speed, called the Bentayga X Concept. With a raised ground clearance and an increased water-wading depth, the vehicle is equipped with a wider track and bespoke 22-inch wheels wrapped with high-profile all-terrain tyres. It runs on a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol mill (producing 650 hp) mated to an all-wheel drive setup. The Bentayga X Concept will participate in the upcoming FAT Ice Race in Austria. 

Xpeng GX first images revealed in China

Xpeng is set to introduce a new flagship crossover in China, the GX. Expected to make its official debut at the 2026 Auto Beijing event, the GX is a six-seater crossover SUV based on the brand’s advanced SEPA 3.0 platform. In terms of design, it draws strong inspiration from the Land Rover Range Rover SUV with no conventional front grille. Under the skin, the Xpeng GX will carry a range-extender electric powertrain, promising a combined range of over 1000 km. The EREV is said to be an AI-powered vehicle, offering a tech-forward, comfortable and engaging driving experience.

New BYD ride-hailing sub-brand Linghui announced

BYD has introduced its new sub-brand Linghui in China, focusing on ride-hailing taxis and corporate vehicles. As reported by CarNewsChina, the Linghui range will comprise cost-efficient cars for the B2B market. It includes -  e5, e7, e9, and M9, based on the automaker’s existing models.  Linghui will have its own identity and operate through its independent sales channels.

Volkswagen Tayron set to launch in India soon 

Volkswagen is set to introduce a new three-row SUV, the Tayron, in the Indian market. It is a 7-seater version of the Tiguan R-Line, powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, kicking out a maximum power of 204 hp and a peak torque of 320 Nm. Expected to launch in February 2026, the Volkswagen Tayron will compete against the Toyota Fortuner, Skoda Kodiaq, and Jeep Meridian.

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

Also read: Toyota Vios Hybrid vs Honda City Hybrid: Choosing the right hybrid sedan