Weekly wrapup: 2024 Mazda CX-3, Mazda 2, Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 500 4MATIC launched, Jaecoo J7 AWD arrival confirmed, and more

This week, the Malaysian automotive landscape welcomed the updated versions of two Mazda cars, the CX-3 and 2, along with the SUV iteration of the Mercedes-Benz EQE. Additionally, Chery Malaysia launched its first 4S facility on the East Coast and Lexus Malaysia opened a new centre in Kota Kinabalu. In the meantime, the global auto industry witnessed the debut of several new models like the 4th-gen Suzuki Swift, Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe, Toyota Hilux Hybrid 48V, and more. Here’s a quick recap of the top auto news of the week. 

Local news

2024 Mazda CX-3 arrives in Malaysia

Bermaz Motor has introduced the all-new 2024 Mazda CX-3 in Malaysia. The latest version of the fully imported Mazda car is offered in three trims - 1.5G 2WD Plus, 2.0G 2WD Plus, and 2.0G 2WD High, priced between RM 115,720 and RM 139,159. As for the 2024 model year, the crossover SUV gets an upgraded standard equipment pack, comprising LED headlamps, LED DRLs, auto-folding side mirrors, wireless Apple CarPlay, six airbags, parking sensors, and an i-Activsense ADAS suite. The previously available Core variants are replaced by the Plus variants.

2024 Mazda 2 launched in Malaysia

The Mazda 2 sedan and hatchback have also received an update in Malaysia for 2024. Priced at RM 108,670, both models now come with a restyled black honeycomb grille, a fresh pair of 16-inch black and chrome alloy wheels, automatic LED headlights, new dashboard trims, new upholstery, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and cruise control. A new AirStream Blue colour is exclusively available for the new Mazda 2 hatchback. 

Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 500 4MATIC up for grabs in Malaysia

A new Mercedes-Benz EQ model also made its way to the local shores this week, called the EQE SUV 500 4MATIC. It is the SUV iteration of the EQE sedan, which was launched in Malaysia last year. The EV is powered by a dual-motor setup that churns out 408 PS and 858 Nm. It is hooked with a 90.6 kWh battery pack offering a drive range of up to 552 km on a single charge. The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV 500 4MATIC price tag reads RM 485,888.

 

Lexus Malaysia opens a new centre in East Malaysia

Toyota’s luxury arm Lexus has expanded its footprint in Malaysia with the launch of its second showroom in the Eastern region. Located at Mile 5.5, Tuaran Road, Kota Kinabalu, the new Lexus centre is operated by Borneo Mobility Sabah Sdn Bhd. It promises a new experience to car enthusiasts in Sabah by offering exclusive services closer to their homes. The centre incorporates traditional elements like batik-inspired flooring and intricately carved wooden fittings to honour Malaysia's artistic heritage.

A new Chery 4S centre opens in Kuantan

The Chinese automaker Chery also inaugurated its new flagship 4S centre in Malaysia this week. Located in Kuantan, the new facility is the brand’s first and largest showroom in the East Coast. It is operated by Evenergy Auto and caters to the vibrant populations of Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan.

BMW Group Malaysia appoints new Managing Director and CEO

BMW Group AG has appointed Benjamin Nagel as the new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BMW Group Malaysia. Succeeding the current managing director Hans de Visser, Nagel will take official charge on January 1, 2024. He brings over 20 years of remarkable experience within the BMW Group, specialising in the brands BMW and MINI.

Jaecoo J7 AWD arrival confirmed

Chery-sub brand Jaecoo is set to enter into the Malaysian market with the launch of the J7 all-wheel-drive SUV. The first two units of the Jaecoo J7 AWD have arrived in Malaysia for road testing and exclusive previews for potential dealers. The launch is expected to be held next year.

Proton November 2023 sales report released

Proton sold a total of 12,296 cars (domestic plus export) in the month of November 2023, which takes the total yearly sales to 141,900 units, surpassing last year's annual sales volume of 141,432 units. Proton Saga remains the brand’s best-selling model during the month with deliveries of 6,349 units.

International news

Toyota Hilux Hybrid 48V debuts in Europe

Toyota has introduced the first electrified version of its popular workhorse vehicle, the Hilux, in Europe. The Toyota Hilux Hybrid 48V is powered by a mild-hybrid setup, incorporating a 2.8-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, an electric motor, a 48-volt lithium battery (mounted under the rear seats) and a six-speed automatic transmission. The total system output is rated at 204 PS at 3,400 rpm and 500 Nm between 1,600 rpm to 2,800 rpm. The hybrid Hilux will first hit the European market in mid-2024.

Fourth-gen Suzuki Swift revealed globally

The new Suzuki Swift, first shown as a concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, is now ready for the road and made its world debut. The upgraded model features a host of changes, including cosmetic and mechanical. It benefits from a 12V Mild hybrid system that has a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder engine linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission. The all-new Suzuki Swift will reach the UK dealerships next year in spring.

New Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ coupe breaks cover

Mercedes-Benz has rolled out the performance version of the CLE-Class, called the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ coupe. It is equipped with a 48V mild hybrid setup comprising a 3.0-litre M 256M inline-6 engine, an integrated starter generator, an AMG Speedshift 9G transmission, and 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system. The setup kicks out a maximum power of 449 hp and a peak torque of 560 Nm.

Fiat Titano pickup truck unveiled

Fiat has unveiled the rebadged version of the Peugeot Landrek, named “Titano“. Exclusive to the Algerian market, the new Fiat Titano is offered in both single-cab and double-cab configurations. Powering the pickup truck is a 1.9-litre turbo diesel engine making 110 kW and 350 Nm. It has a payload capacity of 1,210 kg.

That’s all for the week. For further updates, stay tuned with us.

Also read: A closer look at Proton S70’s safety features