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The BMW Group has unveiled its latest high-performance test vehicle, the BMW Vision Driving Experience, a prototype designed to push the limits of driving pleasure. While not intended for mass production, this Vision Vehicle serves as a rolling test platform for the advanced drivetrain and driving dynamics technology developed for BMW’s next-generation electric models under the Neue Klasse banner.

At the heart of this prototype is the “Heart of Joy,” an advanced control system engineered to redefine electric driving. BMW recently put the system through a rigorous endurance test at the BMW Performance Driving Center in Spartanburg, USA, where it demonstrated its full potential. As part of an exclusive preview presentation, the company provided insights into how the Heart of Joy will shape the electric driving experience in the Neue Klasse models, set to launch later this year from BMW’s Plant Debrecen in Hungary.

The Heart of Joy introduces a new dimension to BMW’s core philosophy of Sheer Driving Pleasure, complementing the Neue Klasse’s focus on electrification, digitalization, and sustainability. The small black control unit at the core of this system is set for series production, even though the Vision Vehicle itself will not enter the market.

Enhancing Driving Pleasure and Efficiency

BMW’s Head of Development, Frank Weber, highlighted the transformative impact of the Heart of Joy, stating that it elevates driving pleasure to unprecedented levels while also enhancing efficiency. The system significantly improves regenerative braking, allowing the vehicle to rely almost entirely on energy recuperation, reducing the need for conventional braking. This efficiency boost aligns with BMW’s Efficient Dynamics strategy, maximizing range and sustainability.

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Toyota Motor Corporation has introduced its latest innovation in hydrogen technology with the unveiling of its third-generation fuel cell system (3rd Gen FC System). The new system represents a major step forward in Toyota’s vision for a hydrogen-powered future, with advancements in durability, efficiency, and cost reduction.

Designed specifically to meet the needs of the commercial sector, the 3rd Gen FC System offers durability on par with conventional diesel engines while delivering improved performance and efficiency. Toyota has significantly enhanced fuel efficiency and reduced costs compared to the previous generation, making the new system more viable for widespread adoption. The company plans to roll out the system primarily in Japan, Europe, North America, and China, with commercial availability expected after 2026.

Toyota has scheduled the official unveiling of the 3rd Gen FC System for February 19, 2025, at the H2 & FC EXPO in Tokyo, Japan. The event will mark the first public display of the new technology, highlighting its potential applications in various industries.

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The Kia Sportage has come a long way since its debut in 1993. Originally designed as a compact SUV, it has evolved over the years to become a global best-seller, known for its blend of style, performance, and value. The fifth-generation NQ5 model, introduced in 2021, represents a significant leap forward in terms of design, technology, and engineering.

While Malaysia is currently receiving the pre-facelift version, the Sportage’s core strengths remain intact. Its global success is a testament to Kia’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, and the NQ5 continues this legacy with its modern features and competitive pricing.

After spending some quality time behind the wheel, we can confidently say that this SUV is a serious contender in the crowded C-segment market. With four locally assembled (CKD) variants priced between RM147,218.60 and RM186,899, the Sportage offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and technology. But how does it fare in real-world driving?

Bold and Eye-Catching

From the moment we laid eyes on the Sportage, its bold and modern design stood out. The pre-facelift version we’re getting in Malaysia may not be the latest iteration, but it still looks fresh and contemporary. The tiger-nose grille, flanked by sleek LED headlamps and DRLs, gives the front end a futuristic and aggressive stance. The base 2.0G 2WD variant comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, which are decent, but the 18-inch alloys on the higher trims add a more premium and sporty touch.

The side profile is equally impressive, with sharp character lines and a slightly raked roofline that gives the Sportage a dynamic appearance. The rear design is clean and modern, with full-LED taillights on the turbocharged variants that look particularly striking at night. Some test units were finished in Astra Blue, a vibrant shade that turned heads wherever we went. Overall, the Sportage’s exterior design strikes a great balance between sophistication and sportiness.

A Tech-Savvy and Comfortable Cabin

Sliding into the driver’s seat, we were immediately impressed by the Sportage’s well-thought-out interior. The base 2.0G 2WD variant comes with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 4.2-inch TFT-LCD instrument cluster, which are functional but feel a bit basic compared to the higher trims. However, stepping up to the 1.6T High variants transforms the cabin into a tech-lovers paradise.

The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen in the turbocharged models are the stars of the show. The crisp displays and intuitive interface make it easy to access navigation, media, and vehicle settings.

Material quality is solid across the board, with soft-touch surfaces and leatherette upholstery in the higher trims. The Harman Kardon sound system in the 1.6T AWD High variant is a standout feature, delivering rich and immersive audio quality that made my commute much more enjoyable. The cabin feels spacious and airy, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The 60:40 split-folding rear seats add to the practicality, making it easy to carry larger items when needed.

Smooth and Capable

The Sportage offers two engine options, and we had the chance to test both during our time with the SUV. The 2.0G variants are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine that delivers 154hp and 192Nm of torque. While it is not the most powerful engine in its class, it is perfectly adequate for city driving and highway cruising. The six-speed automatic transmission is smooth and predictable, though it can feel a bit sluggish when you need quick acceleration.

The 1.6T variants, on the other hand, are where the Sportage truly shines. The turbocharged 1.6-litre engine produces 177hp and 265Nm of torque, giving the SUV a much more spirited and engaging driving experience. The seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is quick to respond, and the availability of all-wheel drive in the top-tier model adds an extra layer of confidence, especially in wet or slippery conditions.

During the test drive, we took the 1.6T AWD High variant on a mix of city roads, highways, and winding country lanes. The turbocharged engine felt punchy and responsive, making overtaking and merging onto highways a breeze. The AWD system provided excellent traction, even on loose gravel roads, and the differential lock came in handy during a brief off-road excursion. The Sportage may not be a hardcore off-roader, but it is more than capable of handling light trails and rough terrain.

Comfortable and Refined

One of the first things we noticed about the Sportage is how comfortable and refined it feels on the road. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections, making it an excellent choice for daily commuting and long-distance trips. The steering is light and precise, offering good feedback without being overly heavy, which makes it easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces.

The turbocharged variants offer a more engaging driving experience. The 1.6T engine’s ample torque ensures strong acceleration, and the DCT transmission delivers quick and smooth shifts. The inclusion of drive modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport) allows you to tailor the driving dynamics to your preferences. In Sport mode, the throttle response becomes sharper, and the steering feels more weighted, adding a touch of sportiness to the driving experience.

Practical and Family-Friendly

The Sportage is a highly versatile SUV, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike. The cabin offers plenty of space for five occupants, with generous legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. The 60:40 split-folding rear bench seat adds to the practicality, allowing you to expand the cargo space when needed.

The powered tailgate, which is available in higher trims, made loading and unloading a breeze, while the roof rails in the AWD variant provide additional utility for carrying extra gear. The inclusion of rear air vents and dual-zone climate control ensures that all passengers stay comfortable, even on longer journeys.

Packed with Features

Safety is a key focus for the Sportage, with all variants coming equipped with six airbags, ABS, ESC, hill start assist, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. The higher trims add a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including forward collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.

During our drive, we found the ADAS features to be incredibly useful, especially on busy highways. The adaptive cruise control made long-distance driving less fatiguing, while the blind-spot collision warning and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist provided added peace of mind when changing lanes or reversing out of parking spaces. 

The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment system in the turbocharged variants provide a high-tech driving experience, while the blind-spot view monitor enhances safety by displaying a live feed of your blind spots in the instrument cluster.

A Strong Contender with a Few Quirks

After spending time with the Sportage, we came away impressed by its overall package. It’s a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and technology. The turbocharged variants stand out for their spirited performance and premium features. However, there are a few quirks worth noting.

The base 2.0G variants feel a bit underpowered compared to the competition, and the lack of advanced safety features in the entry-level model is a letdown. Additionally, while the digital control panel for the climate system looks sleek, it can be distracting to use while driving. These minor drawbacks aside, the Sportage is a strong contender in the C-segment SUV market.

A Smart Choice for Buyers

The fifth-generation Kia Sportage NQ5 is a well-rounded SUV that offers excellent value for money. While it may not be the newest model on the block, it still holds its own against competitors like the Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5. With its bold design, comfortable interior, and impressive list of features, the Sportage is a smart choice for Malaysian buyers.

If you’re in the market for a C-segment SUV, the Sportage is definitely worth considering. Whether you’re looking for a practical family car or a stylish daily driver, the Sportage delivers on all fronts. So, will you pick the Kia Sportage over its rivals? Based on my experience, the answer might just be a resounding yes.

Specifications:

2.0-litre

Engine: 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four

Power: 154PS @ 6200rpm

Torque: 192Nm @ 4500rpm

Gearbox: Six-speed automatic transmission

Top speed: 181km/h

Price (as tested): RM157,218

We like: Comfort, space and practicality.

We don’t like: A little bit underpowered

 

1.6-litre

Engine: 1.6 litre turbocharged inline-four

Power: 177PS @ 5500rpm

Torque: 265Nm from 1500 to 4500rpm

Gearbox: Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission

Top speed: 201km/h

Price (as tested): RM186,899

We like: Comfort, space, practicality and power

We don’t like: The digital control panel for the climate system

When thinking of an angle for this review, there was one song that kept coming to mind, the classic “anything you can do (I can do better)”. A song that was composed by Irving Berlin for the 1946 Broadway Musical – Annie Get Your Gun.

If you have never heard of it, you can click here to watch it and that should set the tone for the rest of this article.

Over the years, there have been many iterations of the song, and it was popularised in car culture nearly two decades ago in a Mercedes-Benz video advertisement. The video featuring Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso and Mika Hakkinen showcased the three Formula One legends duelling against each other in a series of challenges.

Fast forward to today and the song once again comes to mind to describe the current automotive scenario, particularly the electric vehicle (EV) segment.

Trump himself would not deny that the segment is dominated by Chinese marques. And while the world argues over how the Americans, Japanese and Europeans are going to keep up, the South Koreans have been silently churning out cars that not only impress with their technology but also offer stunning designs.

The KIA EV9 you see sprawled on this page is one such stunner from South Korea. It may not look like it when seen in photos, but it is a massive car, about the size of the latest generation Range Rover. And it is quite imposing as well, with a neck cramming presence everywhere it goes since not many have seen one on our roads.

We love it, sort of.

In terms of design, it will not look out of place in a Star Wars movie. In fact, while Chinese cars and Tesla’s have started to look the same with their front and rear lightbars and gigantic infotainment systems inside, there is nothing else quite like the KIA EV9.

But you have to wonder why it has not become an instant sensation among the wealthy.

Yes, the wealthy. Because the EV9 is priced at RM370,000 for the seven-seater variant and RM375,000 for the six-seater. So, you can’t expect regular folks to be flocking to it.

It’s price is one of the few thorns on its side because when it comes to spending over a quarter million Ringgit, most Malaysians would still pick a European brand over a Korean. You know, to make a statement at the next family gathering that you have “arrived in life”, and nothing makes a statement better than a European marque.

So, this means then that the KIA EV9 sits in a very peculiar spot. It is way too expensive for the regular joe, and for those who can afford it, well they either do not want to spend that much on a KIA or would rather spend it on a luxury marque. Except for a few oddballs to whom I am grateful to for if it wasn’t for them we wouldn’t be having such cars in Malaysia.

So, what is it about the EV9 that we love?

Apologies for getting distracted, but the EV9 is a stylish machine and that’s the first thing we like about it. In fact it makes you go wow the first time you see it. It makes the cooks in a Chinese restaurant come out just to look at it. I can personally testify to that.

There’s a saying that goes, “if you don’t look back at your car after you have parked it, you bought the wrong car,” and I just could not stop staring at it though I am far from buying one.

How KIA has made seemingly straight lines and vast empty spaces look this good may be beyond most of us non-designers, but we can collectively breathe a sigh of relief that the automotive world can still churn out such good-looking cars.

Then there is the interior. KIA has again shown that they are not followers of the herd. There are no gargantuan infotainment screens inside, just one that measures in at a regular 12.3-inch and another of equal proportions for the instrument cluster.

And thankfully there are still physical controls for everything from the air-conditioning to the radio. You can even adjust the air-conditioner blowers manually, just as you always could before some brands started over engineering them.

The rear passengers get their own set of air-conditioning controls but not only that they also get their own sunroof as well.

The interior space and seats deserve their own special mention

Considering the size of the car, it should come as no surprise that interior living space is vast.

It is also comfortable for the kids and shorter adults in the third row, which positions the EV9 as a capable option for large families.

The seats themselves could put more expensive cars to shame in terms of comfort. They are so good that there’s an entire section dedicated to the seats in the EV9’s specification sheet.

The driver’s side seat gets a massage function which turns on after an hour of driving while the seat itself is adjustable in multiple ways. Both driver and passenger seat also have a feature called Premium Relaxation, this is where the seat can recline in such a way that it almost feels like you’re in a hammock.

So, what are the other thorns you may ask?

After raving about the seats, I must say that the mesh headrests for the front two seats are unbecoming for a car of this price range, like they were taken from the office chairs of KIA’s design centre.

The other thing that I am particularly concerned about are the digital side view monitors. Instead of using regular mirrors, KIA has chosen to use cameras instead. They protrude out awkwardly and look weird.

On top of that, monitoring the sides of the car can take some getting used to as well because you can never gauge the distance. It is already difficult to tell the distance with a mirror, what more a monitor. And what more, we have thousands of motorcyclists to share the road with daily and the occasional swipe with a handlebar does happen. One must wonder how much it costs to replace the camera.

But what about the powertrain?

That responsibility falls on dual motors, one for each axle, which effectively makes the EV9 an all-wheel-drive SUV.

Providing juice to the motors is a 99.8kWh battery pack and that gives the car 380hp, 700Nm of torque as well as a WLTP range of 505km. But after spending a couple of days with the EV9, we returned the car with an average energy usage of 21.4kWh, and that gave the car a real-world range of 466km.

Energy usage gets higher on the highway and that drops the range like an anchor, which is typical of EV’s. So, to sustain a decent range, driving between 90-100km/h was the only way, which is a shame.

As for charging, the EV9 supports an 800V electrical architecture which allows for ultra-fast charging. To recharge, the car can take 350kW of DC charging which lets the car hit 80% state of charge from 10% in just 24 minutes.

While that may be impressive, the EV9 is only capable of 11kW of AC charging, and that is the real stick in an otherwise great show because it will need 10 hours and 30 minutes to hit 100% from near zero.

So why do we like it so much?

While the car may not be able to go very far and in all honesty would have greatly benefited from 22kW AC charging, it is still a great car to drive.

Refinement levels are arguably at near Rolls-Royce levels at regular speeds. The car does not come with adaptive suspension which is available in some other markets, but the MacPherson struts and Multi-Links do a fantastic job nonetheless.

The fact that it does not come with the more expensive adaptive suspensions means that long term ownership may be easier on the pocket, so that may just be a good thing.

We also like its versatility as a family car, offering space and comfort for all three rows. And ensuring the car remains safe in all situations are multiple levels of technologies ranging from everything to Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist systems to Smart Cruise Control.

But the real star is of course the one thing that we have been harping about all along, its design which particularly stands out in the colour you see here, Ocean Blue.

Is it worth it?

Well, that would depend on which side of the divide you stand on. If you like nice cars and don’t mind the badge they come with then for sure the EV9 is worth it. But if you are the type that is concerned about making a statement, just keep in mind that the KIA badge has come a long way from its Spectra days.

Specifications
Motor: Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor
Power: 380hp
Torque: 700Nm
Battery: 99.8kWh Lithium-Ion
Price (As tested): RM369,668 (7-seater)

We like: Design, Refinement, Features
We don’t like: No 22kW AC charging

BMW is preparing to launch the latest version of its best-selling Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), the BMW X3, in China. The updated model, developed specifically for the Chinese market, is expected to arrive at dealerships within days and will officially go on sale later in February 2025.

The new BMW X3 will be available with two four-cylinder petrol engine options. The entry-level BMW X3 xDrive 25L Luxury delivers 190hp and 310Nm of torque, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in 8.7 seconds and a top speed of 214km/h. A more powerful alternative, the BMW X3 xDrive 30L, is available in two equipment variants—Pioneering MSP and Exclusive MSP. This version generates 258hp with 400Nm of torque, achieving 0 to 100km/h in just 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 239km/h.

China represents a crucial market for BMW, with the outgoing X3 model emerging as the brand’s top global seller in 2023. In China alone, 156,000 units were delivered, accounting for nearly 40% of all BMW X model sales in the country. To cater to the growing demand for premium midsize SAVs, BMW has introduced a China-specific extended-wheelbase version of the X3, ensuring enhanced interior space and passenger comfort while maintaining the brand’s signature 50:50 weight distribution for balanced handling.

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BYD has unveiled its latest advanced driver assistance system (ADAS), known as “God’s Eye,” in a move that aims to integrate high-end intelligent driving technology across its vehicle lineup, including budget-friendly models like the BYD Seagull. The system, available in three variants with up to three LiDAR sensors, represents a significant leap forward for the company, which had previously faced criticism for lagging behind competitors in autonomous driving technology.

During the launch ceremony, BYD highlighted its vast engineering resources and data-driven approach to ADAS development. The company, which maintains the largest car cloud database in China, employs 110,000 engineers, with 5,000 dedicated to intelligent driving research and development. In 2024, the company’s ADAS training mileage reached 72 million kilometres per day, a scale that has contributed to the evolution of its latest driving assistance technology.

BYD’s new ADAS system is divided into three distinct levels. The entry-level variant, called “God’s Eye C,” is designed for standard BYD models and operates using a three-camera cluster positioned behind the windshield. This system, powered by the DiPilot 100 processor with a peak computing capacity of 100 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second), incorporates 12 cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors.

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Tesla has aggressively pursued legal action against critics in China, targeting car owners, bloggers, and media outlets that question the safety and quality of its vehicles. The company has won nearly all its lawsuits, benefiting from strong government backing and China’s pro-business legal environment. Tesla’s legal victories highlight the growing influence of foreign firms in China’s judicial system, where consumers and critics face significant challenges in holding corporations accountable.

Zhang Yazhou’s Case: A Battle Against Tesla

One of Tesla’s most widely publicised legal disputes in China involves Zhang Yazhou, a car owner who became a vocal critic of the company. The case dates back to February 2021, when Zhang’s father was driving their Tesla Model 3 in Henan province and allegedly experienced brake failure, leading to a crash. While local traffic police attributed the incident to speeding and driver error, Zhang insisted that the car’s brakes had malfunctioned. She demanded full access to the crash data, but Tesla refused to provide it in its entirety, further fueling her suspicions.

Zhang Yazhou sits on her Model 3 with a banner that reads “Tesla Brake Failure”

Zhang’s Protest & Tesla’s Response

In April 2021, frustrated by Tesla’s refusal to disclose complete data, Zhang staged a high-profile protest at the Shanghai Auto Show. She climbed onto the roof of a Tesla car, wearing a T-shirt that read “Tesla brake failure”, and shouted slogans, drawing widespread media attention. The protest went viral on Chinese social media, sparking heated debates about Tesla’s reliability and corporate ethics.

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BMW Group Malaysia has officially announced the pricing of the All-New Locally Assembled BMW 530i M Sport and MINI Countryman S ALL4, both now available at all authorised BMW and MINI dealerships nationwide.

The All-New Locally Assembled BMW 530i M Sport

Continuing the legacy of the BMW 5 Series as the world’s most successful premium business sedan, the petrol-powered BMW 530i M Sport expands the Power of Choice for Malaysian customers. The model features the signature proportions of the 5 Series, enhanced with striking visual elements that redefine its character. Following the introduction of the locally assembled BMW 520i M Sport in 2024, the BMW 530i M Sport offers a higher power output and an upgraded equipment package.

Dynamic Financial Programme

BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia offers two financing options for the BMW 530i M Sport:

  • Easy Drive Financing Plan: Monthly instalments start from RM4,178 (80% loan, five-year tenure, 20,000 km mileage per annum).

  • Straight-Line Financing Plan: Monthly instalments start from RM4,442 (80% loan, seven-year tenure).

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Malaysia’s hybrid vehicle segment is set to welcome a new contender with the arrival of the Jaecoo J7 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) SUV by the end of February 2025. In anticipation of the official launch, Jaecoo Malaysia has confirmed that the first locally assembled units of the J7 PHEV have begun rolling off the production line at its Shah Alam facility.

According to Jaecoo Malaysia Vice President Emily Lek, the J7 PHEV is strategically positioned as a viable alternative between the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and fully Electric Vehicle (EV) segments. “We believe the Jaecoo J7 PHEV perfectly aligns with market demand by offering the best of both worlds through its advanced Super Hybrid System (SHS). As Malaysia’s EV ecosystem continues to evolve, we are committed to providing consumers with a seamless transition to hybrid mobility,” she stated.

Lek also highlighted Jaecoo’s preparedness in after-sales service, ensuring a robust support network for PHEV owners. “Beyond delivering a premium SUV, our Jaecoo network is fully equipped to support PHEV customers, ensuring longevity and satisfaction throughout their ownership journey.”

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Following a record-breaking year in 2024 with Total Industry Volume (TIV) reaching 813,521 units, the Malaysian automotive market experienced a downturn in January 2025. The decline was attributed to high sales in December 2024 and the impact of the Chinese New Year festive period. An estimated 50,278 vehicles were sold in January 2025, marking a 38.7% drop from the 81,987 units sold in December 2024 and a 24.9% decline from the 66,925 units recorded in January 2024.

Proton Reports Market Share Growth Despite Industry Slowdown

Amid the overall decline, Proton’s total sales for January 2025—including domestic, export, Proton e.MAS, and smart car models—stood at 9,914 units. This figure compares to 12,882 units of internal combustion engine (ICE) cars sold in January 2024. Despite the lower volume, Proton’s estimated market share rose to 19.7%, up from 18.7% last year. The company credited the performance to strong sales of the Proton e.MAS 7, a surge in exports, and three Proton models leading their respective segments.

Proton e.MAS 7 Emerges as Malaysia’s Best-Selling EV

The Proton e.MAS 7, launched on December 16, 2024, has gained significant traction in Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) market. Over 4,000 units have been booked, prompting Proton to release an additional 3,000 units with launch package benefits. Deliveries began in early 2025, with 421 units reaching customers in January, making it Malaysia’s best-selling EV with a 25% share of the total EV market.

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