Weekly wrap-up: smart #5 previewed, iCaur 03 launch date confirmed, New Tesla Model Y Performance AWD unveiled and more

Just like in previous weeks, the Malaysian automotive industry remained busy this week, with electric cars taking most of the attention. Smart Malaysia previewed its largest electric SUV, the #5, while iCaur opened its first global dealership in Glenmarie ahead of the iCAUR 03 EV launch. Zeekr also expanded its footprint with the opening of two new showrooms in partnership with Carro. In the meantime, the global auto arena also witnessed a few big reveals. 

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

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

smart #5 EV previewed ahead of launch

The Geely–Mercedes-Benz Smart joint venture is set to launch its third EV in Malaysia, called the #5. After its preview at MAS 2025, the automaker showcased the EV once again this week, hinting at its imminent arrival. The smart #5 is the first Smart EV to feature an 800V electrical architecture, offering ultra-fast charging from 10% to 80% in just 15 minutes. It will be offered in three variants - Pro, Premium, and high-performance Brabus model. The latter is powered by a dual-motor setup, delivering 639 PS and 710 Nm, with 0 - 100 kmph in just 3.8 seconds.

iCAUR opens first dealership; 03 launch date confirmed 

Chery-owned iCAUR has opened its first-ever dealership in the world, in Glenmarie, ahead of launching its first EV, the iCAUR 03. The showroom spans over 18,912 sq ft and features a large display area, after-sales facilities, EV charging bays, and even a dedicated gaming zone called the iCAUR Arcade. Bookings of the iCAUR 03 are currently underway in the country, with the launch set to happen on September 9. The estimated price ranges between RM 145,000 and RM 155,000. 

Carro opens two Zeekr centres in Malaysia

Zeekr appointed Carro as its latest authorised dealer in Malaysia back in June. According to the plan, Carro opened two Zeekr showrooms in Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur and Juru Autocity, Penang this week. The first is located at 79, Jalan Maarof, Bangsar, Kuala Lumpur, while the other is at 1684, Jalan Perusahaan, Auto-City, Prai, Penang. The new Zeekr centres display the brand’s exciting lineup of electric cars, including the 009 and 7X. Carro is set to open the next two showrooms in Mutiara Damansara and Seremban later this year. 

Mazda CX-80 launching soon in Malaysia

Mazda Malaysia recently dropped the CX-80 teaser on its social media handles, hinting at the soon arrival of the SUV earlier previewed at the KLIMS 2024. Based on the brand’s Skyactiv Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture, the CX-80 is a three-row SUV that will rival the likes of premium SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5, and Hyundai Santa Fe in Malaysia. While local powertrain details are yet to be revealed, the CX-80 comes in several engine options in the global market, including petrol, diesel, mild hybrids and plug-in hybrids.

Proton, Leapmotor loan electric cars to MOT, supporting EV adoption

Several automotive brands, including Proton and Leapmotor, have loaned their EVs to the Ministry of Transport (MOT), enabling them to study performance, practicality, and readiness of EVs in Malaysia’s transport sector. This move supports the government’s efforts to promote sustainable transportation and advance the nation’s low-carbon mobility agenda. PRO-NET, the distributor of Proton e.MAS and smart EV, handed over a fleet of EV while the Chinese automaker Leapmotor loaned two units of its C10 electric SUV. 

Bufori CS8 revealed in Malaysia; starts from RM 2,188,000

The Australian-Malaysian coachbuilder, Bufori, introduced the all-new Bufori CS8 in Malaysia this week. Redefining the art of bespoke motoring, the Bufori CS8 is a ultra high performance grand tourer, engineered with the finest components and materials available. This world-class creation is based on a carbon-Kevlar monocoque body with adaptive suspension and Brembo brakes. It runs on a 6.4-litre supercharged V8 engine delivering 810 horsepower and 0-100 kmph sprint time of 3.0 seconds. The Bufori CS8 combines Malaysian craftsmanship with global appeal and features a luxurious cabin with full customisation and bespoke finishes, making each car unique.

Jetour expanding its footprint across Malaysia

Launched earlier this year, the Chinese automotive brand Jetour has been expanding rapidly in the Malaysian market. The company began its local assembly operations in June and within just three months, it has bagged more than 2,000 bookings and delivered more than 1,000 units. Jetour Malaysia currently operates 20 authorised dealerships strategically located across Peninsular Malaysia, and it is set to open 30 new dealerships by the end of 2025.

2025 Honda CRF250 Rally launched in Malaysia

Honda launched the upgraded version of its lightweight, dual-sport bike, the CRF250 Rally, in Malaysia this week. Priced at RM 28,599, the latest model is sprayed with Extreme Red hue and features a bold multi-tone bodywork with rally-style graphics and a new navy-blue seat. At the core lies the same 249-cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder, DOHC engine producing a maximum power of 24 PS and a peak torque of 23 Nm. Other key highlights include - a six-speed gearbox, a slip and assist clutch, twin-lens LED headlights, LCD instrument panel, a 12.8-litre fuel tank, Showa suspension and a two-channel ABS.

2025 Ducati Panigale V2, Multistrada V2 launched in Malaysia 

Ducati has launched the all-new Panigale V2 and Multistrada V2 in the Malaysia market. The 2025 Ducati Panigale V2 is priced at RM 125,000 while the 2025 Ducati Multistrada V2 costs RM 112,000 in Malaysia. Both are powered by a 890-cc liquid-cooled V-twin engine, which offers smooth torque delivery at low revs, sharper throttle response and a strong pull at high revs. Feature highlights include - LED lighting, riding modes, a 5-inch TFT display, and advanced Ducati electronic technologies like Cornering ABS, Ducati Traction Control, Ducati Wheelie Control, Engine Brake Control and Ducati Quick Shift 2.0.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

2025 Tesla Model Y Performance AWD breaks cover in Europe

Tesla has unveiled the all-new Model Y Performance AWD as the most powerful iteration of its best-selling SUV. The new model gets a bunch of upgrades, including adaptive suspension, faster acceleration (0-100 kmph in 3.5 seconds), a higher top speed (250 kmph), larger 21-inch alloy wheels, and multiple driving modes. The range has also been improved, thanks to a new high-voltage battery pack with higher-capacity cells, offering a WLTP-rated driving range of 580 km. The deliveries of the new Model Y Performance AWD will begin in Europe next month,

All-new 2025 Peugeot 308 debuts in Europe 

The upgraded version of the third-gen Peugeot 308 made its official debut in the European market this week. Both hatch and station wagon trim gets cosmetic tweaks, new technology, and electrified options, including BEV, plug-in hybrid, petrol-electric hybrid, and diesel. The all-electric model comes powered by a 156 PS front-mounted electric motor and a 58.4 kWh battery pack, offering a WLTP-claimed driving range of 452 km. While prices are yet to be announced, the all-new Peugeot 308 is expected to hit the European showrooms later this year. 

Suzuki Motor begins EV production in India

Suzuki Motor has finally commenced the production of electric cars in Gujarat, India. The first Suzuki EV set to roll out from the Indian plant is the e-VITARA; alongside India, the EV will be exported to more than 100 countries, including Japan and Europe. Suzuki has plans to invest over 700 billion rupees (RM 33.9 billion) in India; this investment will happen over a period of five to six years.

Jetour Dashing SUV gets facelift in China

The 2025 Jetour Dashing facelift has made its official debut in China with aesthetic tweaks and minor feature updates. The changes include a front fascia featuring a new grille, new headlights and bumper. Also part of the upgrade are new 18- and 19-inch wheel options and a sportier rear design with quad exhaust tips. The interior has a cleaner layout with a column-mounted shifter, an updated digital interface and a larger infotainment screen. Under the hood, the new Dashing houses a re-tuned 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that comes mated to a 7-speed DCT and delivers higher output.

Hyundai teases new EV concept ahead of debut

Hyundai is set to introduce a new small concept EV at the upcoming Munich Motor Show, expected to be called the Ioniq 2. Ahead of that, the South Korean automaker dropped an official teaser of the concept, which will showcase the brand’s latest ‘Art of Steel’ design language. Positioned between the Inster and Kona Electric, the upcoming Hyundai EV will be built on the E-GMP platform and is likely to come with a 204-hp front-mounted motor and 58.3-kWh and 81.4-kWh battery options, offering up to 600km range.

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

Also read: First Impressions: Chery Tiggo Cross (Hybrid up, Turbo back) - Are they any good?