Weekly wrap-up: Tesla Cybercab previewed, New MG ZS CKD launched, BYD Flash Charging coming soon to Malaysia, and more

The past week continued the busy momentum in the Malaysian automotive industry, with Tesla previewing the autonomous Cybercab EV and MG introducing the all-new ZS. In the meantime, the global auto industry also had several noteworthy reveals and updates about upcoming models. In case you missed out on any of that, here we bring a quick recap of all the top auto news of the week from Malaysia and around the world.

Malaysia automotive market: Key updates

2026 MG ZS launched in Malaysia

SAIC Motor Malaysia has officially launched the all-new, locally assembled ZS in the local market. It is offered in two variants - 1.5 Turbo and Hybrid+, priced at RM 103,900 and RM 109,90 (on the road, without insurance). The former uses a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 170 PS and 275 Nm, while the latter combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to deliver a claimed 215 PS and 465 Nm. Key features include - dual 12.3-inch displays, ventilated front seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, panoramic sunroof, MG iSMART connected-car technology, and MG PILOT with 16 driver assistance functions.

Tesla Cybercab autonomous vehicle previewed in Malaysia

Tesla introduced the Cybercab autonomous vehicle in Malaysia this week, signalling the automaker’s interest in bringing driverless mobility to the country. Designed specifically for autonomous ride-hailing, it is a two-seat vehicle with no steering wheel, pedals, or traditional side mirrors, relying on cameras and AI to navigate. Inside, it gets a 21-inch touchscreen, while the luggage compartment can accommodate two check-in suitcases and two carry-on bags. Notably, the Tesla Cybercab is currently being showcased in Malaysia and is not available for public ride-hailing services. Also, there is no confirmed local launch date as of now. However, you can catch its preview at selected locations in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang between October 29 and November 22, 2026.

JAC T9 PHEV pick-up truck launching soon in Malaysia, est price announced

The T9 PHEV pick-up truck is ready to launch in Malaysia soon. Evolvelectric Motors, the official distributor of JAC vehicles in the country, has announced its estimated price via a social media post, which is RM 162,000. Touted as Malaysia’s first plug-in hybrid truck, the JAC T9 is expected to come with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine (218 PS, 370 Nm) paired with two electric motors (177 PS and 204 PS), offering a combined output of 523 PS and 1,000 Nm. Also part of the drivetrain setup is a four-speed dedicated hybrid transmission and a 31.2 kWh LFP battery, offering a pure EV range of 100 km and a combined range of up to 1,000 km.

Denza Z9GT gets new Fjord Green colour in Malaysia

Denza has introduced a new exterior colour option for the Z9GT. Malaysia’s most advanced luxury grand tourer is now available in a new Fjord Green shade, joining the existing Rime Gold and Obsidian Black. The latest colour can be paired with a Perg Beige interior, an all-Black interior featuring suede seats with yellow stitching, or a Red Velvet interior. The Denza Z9GT is offered in a single fully imported variant, priced from RM 358,800 (excluding registration, insurance, and road tax).

BYD’s ultra-fast Flash Charging coming soon to Malaysia

BYD’s ultra-fast Flash Charging is coming soon to Malaysia, as confirmed by the brand’s recent social media post. The ultra-fast DC chargers operate at up to 1,500 kW and take 5 minutes for 10% to 70%, 9 minutes for 10% to 97%, and 12 minutes for 20% to 97%, in conditions as cold as -30°C, which can drastically reduce charging speeds. Earlier this month, the automaker signed a memorandum of understanding with Gentari to identify suitable locations for the high-power EV chargers. Initial BYD Flash Charging will be available at selected Denza showrooms.

BMW Malaysia returns as official E-Mobility Partner for Maybank Championship 2026

BMW Malaysia has announced its return as the official E-Mobility Partner for the Maybank Championship 2026, which will occur from 29 October to 1 November 2026 at the prestigious Kuala Lumpur Golf and Country Club. This marks the brand’s fourth consecutive year of partnership with this world-class tournament, bringing together elite golfers and fans from around the world. BMW Malaysia, along with Auto Bavaria and Performance Motors, will deploy an exclusive fleet of 40 BMW vehicles (including the i7, iX and 530i M Sport) to provide premium transportation for players, officials, and distinguished guests throughout the event. 

New Denza 4S centre opens in Balakong

Denza has expanded its footprint in Malaysia, with the opening of a new centre in Balakong. Operated by Wing Hin Elegant, the latest Denza facility is a 4S centre offering sales, service, spare parts, and B&P (body and paint) under one roof. It features a two-floor display area, a separate delivery room, seven servicing bays, a comfortable lounge, and will add BYD Flash Charging facilities in the future.  Valid until 31 December 2026, the Denza Balakong opening promo offers an exclusive gift to customers who place a booking for a Denza model during the campaign period. 

2026 KTM 990 RC R and 1390 Super Adventure series launched in Malaysia

Eurotech Group (ETG), the official importer and distributor of KTM bikes in Malaysia, has launched the all-new KTM 990 RC R and three Adventure Series models - KTM 1390 Super Adventure S, KTM 1390 Super Adventure R and KTM 1390 Super Adventure S Evo.  

• KTM 990 RC R (RM 113,000): It is a fully street-homologated, road-legal supersport that features MotoGP-inspired aerodynamics and delivers an exhilarating performance. At its core is a 947 cc LC8c parallel-twin engine tuned to produce 127.84 PS of maximum power and 103 Nm of peak torque. 
• KTM 1390 Super Adventure S (RM 144,000): Engineered for high-speed touring, with the ability to handle gravel roads, the bike features muscular styling and an improved windshield. Power comes from a 1,350-cc V-twin engine delivering 173 PS of maximum power and 145 Nm of torque.
• KTM 1390 Super Adventure R (RM 146,500): It offers class-leading performance on the most demanding off-road terrains. The bike is powered by a 1,350 cc V-twin engine delivering 175 PS and 145 Nm of torque. It features 21-inch front and 18-inch rear tubeless wire-spoked Wheels wrapped with aggressive adventure-knobby tyres.
• KTM 1390 Super Adventure S Evo (RM 153,000): It offers an exciting adventure touring experience with advanced technology and a 1,350 cc V-twin engine delivering 173 PS and 145 Nm of torque. It is the first KTM model to get the revolutionary Automated Manual Transmission, offering a clutchless riding experience.

Global automotive market: Key international launches and updates

Chery Tiggo X7 breaks covers in China

Chery introduced its first Tiggo X series model this week in the Chinese market, called the Tiggo X7. It is a  C-segment SUV that features a rugged and boxy design with an upright octagonal-shaped front grille, sleek LED headlights, protective-looking body cladding, prominent roof rails, all-terrain tyres, and elevated ride height. As per the reports, the Chery Tiggo X7 will be offered in two petrol engine options - 1.5 litre turbocharged and 1.6-litre turbocharged. Depending on variant configuration, the engine comes paired with a front- and all-wheel-drive system mated to three drive modes (Eco, Sport and Normal) or six off-road modes (Snow, Mud, Sand, Mountain, Rock and Water Wading).

Lepas AURA shooting brake concept revealed in China

Chery-owned Lepas has revealed its first-ever concept vehicle in China, called ‘AURA.’ Inspired by the brand's “Natural Energy” philosophy, the AURA is a two-door shooting brake with a long wheelbase, short overhangs and a wide stance. It features a distinctive front-end design with Leopard-inspired headlamps, a front digital lighting panel and a rear elliptical screen that can display customised tail light patterns. Lepas has not yet confirmed production plans, technical specifications or a powertrain for the AURA concept car.

Aston Martin Valhalla Spider debuts as the brand’s fastest convertible model

Aston Martin has unveiled its fastest open-top model, the Valhalla Spider, in the global market. It features a removable fabric roof (carbon-fibre hardtop available as an option) along with a revised roof scoop, a wind deflector to improve cabin comfort during open-top driving, and frameless dihedral doors. The Valhalla Spider gets the same plug-in hybrid powertrain (4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and three electric motors) as the coupe model, which delivers a combined output of 1,079 hp and 1,100 Nm and accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in a claimed 2.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 350 kmph, even with the roof removed.

Honda to introduce new pickup truck based on Mitsubishi Triton

Honda and Mitsubishi have signed a memorandum of understanding for the development of a new Honda model based on the Mitsubishi Triton, which is scheduled to go on sale in the ASEAN market in 2028. The Triton is one of Mitsubishi’s global strategic models that is in high demand, particularly in the ASEAN region. 

Lexus LBX gets an update in Japan

Lexus has rolled out a series of minor upgrades for the LBX in the Japanese market. The upgraded model benefits from an improved chassis with a thicker centre cross member, offering enhanced ride and handling. Also new for the 2027 model year is a re-tuned electronic power steering, a new colour option called Sou, a colour head-up display, and a dashcam now offered as standard across all variants. The engine options remain unchanged, with a 1.5-litre petrol hybrid setup making a combined output of 136 PS.

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

Also read: New Honda City Hatchback: Variants explained - Which one should you choose?