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Toyota is advancing its hybrid technology for performance vehicles under its Gazoo Racing (GR) sub-brand, aiming to meet stringent global emissions regulations while maintaining high performance. According to reports, the next generation of GR sports cars will feature a hybrid powertrain derived from a new engine currently undergoing testing.

At the core of this development is the newly designed 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine, codenamed G20E. This power unit, which was first showcased in the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept, is engineered to support both plug-in hybrid and mild hybrid configurations. Toyota has optimised the G20E with a shorter piston stroke, making it more compact and lightweight than existing engines. While official specifications have yet to be disclosed, sources indicate that the road-going version is expected to deliver over 400hp and 500Nm of torque, while motorsport applications could see outputs exceeding 600hp.

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Porsche is considering the introduction of a new combustion-engine SUV before the end of the decade, potentially serving as a replacement for the internal combustion engine (ICE) Macan. The move comes as the company reassesses its strategy in response to slower-than-expected adoption of electric vehicle (EV), prompting a more flexible product approach that extends the life of combustion and hybrid models well into the 2030s.

Originally, the Macan Electric, launched last year, was set to fully replace the ICE Macan in 2024. The petrol-powered Macan was withdrawn from sale in the European Union in April 2024 due to cybersecurity compliance issues and is expected to cease production entirely by 2026. However, with EV sales not meeting initial projections, Porsche is now evaluating the feasibility of a new ICE and hybrid SUV model to be sold alongside its electric counterpart.

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Proton’s return to the C-segment sedan market after more than a decade has been met with overwhelming success, as the Proton S70 claimed the top spot in its category within its first full year of production and sales. Traditionally dominated by Japanese brands, the segment has seen a shift in consumer preference following the S70’s introduction in November 2023. The model has quickly gained traction among Malaysians, thanks to its combination of cutting-edge features and exceptional value.

Despite a general slowdown in automotive sales in January 2025, following a record-breaking total industry volume (TIV) of 816,747 units in 2024, the Proton S70 maintained its strong momentum, surpassing the 1,000-unit sales mark each month. The sedan recorded 1,143 units in January and 1,197 units in February, continuing its steady performance. In 2024, Proton sold 18,880 units of the S70, outselling its closest competitor by 8,470 units. The model’s best monthly performance was in February 2024, when sales peaked at 2,290 units.

The S70’s success is largely attributed to its ability to offer a premium C-segment experience at a price point typically associated with B-segment models. Equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged engine delivering 150PS and 226Nm of torque, coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the S70 strikes a balance between power, efficiency, and driving excitement. Beyond performance, its spacious interior, advanced driver assistance features, and lower ownership costs compared to Japanese rivals have been key selling points. This combination of attributes also led to the S70 being selected as Proton’s official entry in the 2024 Sepang 1000 KM race.

A Sedan Under RM100k Offering Value and Exclusivity

A recent survey of nearly 200 Proton S70 owners revealed that many buyers saw the model as a unique offering within its class. While some considered Japanese competitors, the S70’s well-rounded package ultimately swayed their decision. In addition to its value-driven appeal, the S70 boasts advanced safety features, including autonomous emergency braking, forward and rear collision warning, lane departure warning, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

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Penang is set to welcome a new direct flight route from another major city in China, further enhancing its connectivity with the Chinese market. The new route is expected to commence during China’s May Day Golden Week, pending final approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM).

According to NST, State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai revealed that discussions had taken place during the Routes Asia 2024 Forum, where Penang Global Tourism engaged with a Chinese airline to finalise the details. Several video conferences had already been conducted before reaching this stage. Once all necessary procedures are completed, the airline is expected to make an official announcement regarding the flight details.

The introduction of this direct connection is anticipated to capitalise on the surge in travel during China’s May Day holiday season, further strengthening Penang’s role as a regional aviation hub and an international tourist destination. Wong expressed confidence that the new route would provide a significant boost to tourism, business exchanges, and cultural interactions between Penang and China.

At present, Penang has direct air links to seven Chinese cities, namely Guangzhou, Xiamen, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, Chongqing, and Xi’an. The upcoming addition will mark the eighth direct flight route between Penang and China, reinforcing the state’s growing appeal as a preferred destination for Chinese travellers.

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Great Wall Motor (GWM) has officially launched the second-generation Haval Xiaolong Max plug-in hybrid SUV, introducing a fresh exterior design and equipping it with the automaker’s self-developed Coffee Pilot Plus advanced driving assistance system.

The latest iteration of the Haval Xiaolong Max embraces the brand’s “rhythmic natural aesthetics” design philosophy, giving the SUV a modern and refined appearance. The headlights incorporate 72 LED crystals, offering an impressive luminosity of 4,000 lumens and an illumination distance of 190 meters. Consumers will have a choice of five exterior colours: Aurora Green, Distant Mountain Gray, Canglang Blue, Ice Crystal White, and Phantom Night Black.

At the rear, the SUV features a distinctive “Bright Galaxy” taillight design, inspired by the Milky Way. The taillights are crafted with over 30,000 crystal reflective surfaces and contain 332 super red-light LEDs operating at 628 nm. From the side profile, the vehicle showcases a floating roof design, complemented by new 19-inch five-spoke petal-shaped rims inspired by flowers. Traditional door handles remain in place.

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Lamborghini remains committed to launching its first all-electric vehicle by 2030, with expectations that it could deliver up to 2,000hp. Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume recently confirmed the development, revealing that the EV will be built on a specialised platform designed by Porsche for the group’s luxury and high-performance brands, including Audi and Bentley.

Blume emphasised that Lamborghini’s EV will feature a “very specific setup,” allowing for up to 980 volts, a significant advancement in electric performance technology. The vehicle will take design cues from the Lanzador concept, which was first unveiled in mid-2023. The concept model featured a raised suspension and a distinctive two-door configuration, elements that will carry over to the final production version.

The Lanzador concept originally debuted with 1,341hp—equivalent to one megawatt of power. Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann has confirmed that the production model will at least match this output, if not exceed it. Equipped with dual electric motors, the vehicle will also offer all-wheel drive, ensuring the high-performance characteristics expected from the Italian marque. Production will take place in Sant’Agata, Italy, alongside Lamborghini’s existing lineup.

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