Latest

More than a decade after the discontinuation of the Honda CR-Z, Honda Malaysia is making a return to the hybrid sports car segment with the all-new sixth generation 2026 Honda Prelude. Fully imported (CBU) from Japan, the Prelude is priced from RM 278,000.

For reference, the FL5 Civic Type R is priced from RM 399,900.

Where the Type R is a time-attack machine built to set lap records, the Prelude, like all previous generations of model, is a casual sports car. Actually, the Prelude’s comfort-biased character is closer to that of a grand tourer, albeit a rather compact one.

Unlike mild-hybrid CR-Z, the Prelude combines the best of the full-hybrid Civic e:HEV RS’ 2.0-litre engine (203 PS total system output) with chassis control hardware from the FL5 Civic Type R (steering rack, dual-axis strut suspension, Brembo brakes, engine bay’s structure).

The Prelude also debuts Honda’s S+ Shift virtual gearbox feature in Malaysia. It simulates the driving experience of an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, not just with synthesized engine noise, but complete with shift shock and rev matching. The latter two are only possible because under the Prelude’s hood is a revving engine and a lock-up clutch.

With the Drive Mode set to Sport, S+ Shift reverses the logic of hybrid cars. When you lift off the throttle to brake and dive into a cambered corner, a hybrid drivetrain will by default, cut the engine to switch into regenerative braking mode.

In this scenario, S+ Shift will keep the engine’s rpm high, holding to a pre-set virtual gear ratio as steer into a corner. S+ Shift builds on Honda’s Cornering Logic control to delay upshifts only you are powering out.

The software intelligently manipulates the engine’s rpm and even retards the drive motor for very brief period, thus amplifying the difference in rotational speed between the drive motor and engine. When the lock-up clutch engages, this difference in rotational speed results in the ‘shift shock’ that Prelude drivers appreciate.

It’s not meant to be a full-on Type R experience, because that’s not what Prelude buyers are looking for. The goal is to deliver an engaging enough experience in a casual drive with your partner.

Unlike the Civic, the all-new Prelude uses a button-type ‘gear’ selector, similar to the one seen in the fully electric e:N1.

The door handles are flushed but don’t assume this to be the same as Chinese EVs.This is a mechanical door handle that you simply press on the handle’s trailing edge to flip it out. There is a motorized retractor but the door's opening and closing are purely done by mechanical latches. It doesn't rely on motors to pop open so there's no worry about you getting trapped in the car in an accident.

Key features in the all-new 2026 Honda Prelude are:

• Full suite of Honda Sensing ADAS functions, with Blind Spot Monitor (replaces LaneWatch)
• 19-inch black alloy wheels
• Brembo brakes
• Button-operated ‘gear’ selection
• 9-inch central infotainment touchscreen with Google Built-In
• 8-speaker Bose audio system
• White leather seats with embossed Prelude logo

Four colours are available – Rallye Red, Crystal Black Pearl, Moonlit White Pearl. The Racing Blue Pearl colour, which is available in Indonesia, is not offered here.

Like all recent Honda hybrid models, the all-new 2026 Honda Prelude’s hybrid battery and other hybrid-related components are covered by a 10-year unlimited mileage warranty.

The all-new 2026 Mazda CX-5 is set to make its first public appearance in Malaysia at KLIMS 2026, where Bermaz Auto will showcase the third-generation model alongside the updated Mazda CX-60 lineup.

The preview will give Malaysian visitors an early opportunity to experience the new SUV ahead of its official local launch, which has been confirmed for Malaysia in 2026 as a fully imported (CBU) model before local assembly to follow later.

The third-gen Mazda CX-5 marks one of the most comprehensive overhauls of the model since its debut, bringing significant changes in size, technology and cabin design.

In terms of dimensions, the new CX-5 is larger across the board. It now measures approximately 4,690 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width and 1,695 mm in height, riding on a longer 2,815 mm wheelbase.

This translates to improved rear passenger space, wider rear door openings, and a more usable cabin overall, addressing one of the key criticisms of the outgoing model.

Boot space has also increased to around 583 litres, a gain of 61 litres over the previous generation, making it more practical for family use.

Mazda has also redesigned the interior with a strong focus on a cleaner layout and improved usability. Higher variants now feature a large central touchscreen of up to 15.6 inches, paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

A major shift for Mazda is the introduction of Google built-in, making the CX-5 the first Mazda model to feature native Google services such as Google Maps, voice assistant functionality and app integration.

The system is designed to reduce reliance on traditional smartphone mirroring, although Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support remain.

Under the bonnet, the new CX-5 introduces a simplified and more modernised powertrain lineup. The previous mix of 2.0-litre, 2.5-litre and diesel engines has been replaced in many markets by a single core unit, the 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G petrol engine with 24V mild hybrid assistance.

This engine produces around 141 PS and 238 Nm in front-wheel drive form, paired with Mazda’s 6-speed Skyactiv-Drive automatic transmission. Power delivery remains smooth and linear, with fuel consumption rated at approximately 7.0L/100km for FWD variants under WLTP testing.

All-wheel drive (AWD) is available as an option, with slightly higher consumption at around 7.5L/100km. The AWD system is paired with Mazda’s updated chassis tuning and revised suspension setup aimed at improving ride comfort and stability.

Beyond powertrain and technology changes, the new CX-5 also introduces a more practical and safety-focused package. Key improvements include wider-opening rear doors, a flatter loading floor, and a 40:20:40 split-folding rear seat arrangement for added flexibility.

Higher specification variants are expected to feature premium equipment such as a Bose sound system, panoramic sunroof, and a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and emergency braking functions.

Bermaz Auto has yet to confirm anything regarding the new CX-5's pricing details, but a recent research note from RHB Investment Bank has indicated that pricing for the fully imported (CBU) model could be positioned below RM170,000.

While the third-generation model is on its way, the current Mazda CX-5 remains on sale locally with a full range of petrol variants (and one diesel) starting from RM134,300 to RM177,200, depending on powertrain and variant.

BYD Sime Motors has officially launched the new 2026 BYD Atto 3 facelift here in Malaysia.

This also marks Malaysia as the first country in Asia Pacific to debut the updated BYD Atto 3, with over 12,000 units sold so far within the country.

Interested parties can opt between two variants - Ultra and Premium. The base 2026 BYD Atto 3 Ultra is priced at RM125,800, while the range-topping Premium variant kicks it up to RM138,800.

To quickly sum up the new exterior design updates, the facelifted BYD Atto 3 comes with a new design for the front and rear bumpers, new taillights, and a redesigned rear spoiler which now houses the third brake light.

To spot the visual differences between the new and old BYD Atto 3, CLICK HERE.

Starting with the Ultra, its single electric motor powering the front wheels is retained with 150kW (204PS) and 310Nm of torque. 0-100km/h century sprint on paper is also the same as the pre-facelifted model at 7.3 seconds.

Despite maintaining the 60.48kWh BYD Blade battery pack with a range of up to 480km (NEDC), its maximum DC fast charging capability has been upgraded from 88kW to 110kW. For AC charging, it's set at 7kW.

Moving up to the BYD Atto 3 Premium variant, this rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant kicks it up a notch to 230kW (313PS) and 380Nm of torque. As mentioned before, the 0-100km/h on paper is at 5.5 seconds.

Equipped with a 74.88kWh BYD Blade battery pack, the max range is bumped up to 600km (NEDC). Being the new range-topping variant of the Atto 3 line-up, even its maximum DC fast charging capability is doubled to 220kW. AC-wise, that's raised to 11kW.

Step inside the cabin and the two variants carry the same specs and features. The 15.6-inch centre touchscreen remains, but the digital instrument panel is now bigger at 8.8 inches.

Since its gear selector has been moved to the steering column that holds the new steering wheel design, it has freed up some space in the centre console, which now features a 50W wireless charger between the front seats.

Speaking of front seats, the Ultra variant comes with a six-way power adjustment for the driver seat and a 4-way for the front passenger seat. The Premium gets 6-way power adjustment for both seats, plus lumbar adjustment for the driver.

Safety-wise, the Atto 3 Ultra gets six airbags and the standard ADAS features, while the Premium gets 7 airbags and an 'Enhanced' ADAS safety suite.

The new 2026 BYD Atto 3 facelift is available in four different colour options - Ski White, Atlantis Grey, Harbour Grey, and Cosmos Black. To commemorate the launch, there's also the Exclusive Launch Package that consists of a choice between a wall charger with standard installation or a 6-year standard service package.

There's also an early-bird overtrade worth RM10,000 for the first 500 customers.

After spending the last year or so as a one-car brand with the popular D9 MPV, Denza has finally expanded its local line-up with something even more imposing: the all-new B8. And make no mistake, this thing is enormous. 

Priced from a hefty RM458,800 for the 7-seat Dynamic variant and RM518,800 for the flagship 6-seat Premium, the B8 immediately positions itself at the very top end of the Chinese SUV market in Malaysia, taking the top spot as the most expensive car sold here by a Chinese brand - at least, for now. 

But the B8 is not merely trying to compete with traditional luxury SUVs. It arrives with serious hardware, serious performance and enough technology to make even established luxury staples take notice.

Essentially, what Malaysians are getting is a rebadged version of the Fangchengbao Bao 8 sold in China under BYD’s more off-road-focused Fangchengbao sub-brand. While the name may change for export markets, the recipe remains the same: a massive body-on-frame electrified SUV designed to blend luxury, brute strength and a modern PHEV powertrain into one rather substantial package.

Dimensionally, the B8 is dwarfs most other cars on our roads. Measuring 5,195 mm long, 1,994 mm wide and 1,905 mm tall, with a generous 2,920 mm wheelbase, it even eclipses the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 in overall length and width. It is also larger than the GWM Tank 500 in nearly every measurable aspect.

From the outside, the B8 strikes a surprisingly restrained appearance for something this large. Unlike many modern SUVs that lean heavily into exaggerated styling cues, the Denza adopts a cleaner, more mature design language. The squared-off proportions, upright stance and relatively uncluttered surfaces give it genuine road presence without appearing overly aggressive.

There are still modern touches, of course. Hidden door handles and gloss black body cladding add a more urban-friendly vibe, while the locally-specced black 20-inch Y-spoke wheels wrapped in 275/55 Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres provide a nice contrast against the body. Mind you, China’s Bao 8 rides on larger 21-inch wheels. 

Underneath all that sheet metal lies the real headline act. The B8 uses BYD’s Dual Mode Off-road, or DMO, 'Super Hybrid' system; a plug-in hybrid powertrain specifically engineered for heavy-duty off-roaders. The setup combines a longitudinally-mounted 2.0 litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 197 PS and 350 Nm with dual electric motors and a dedicated hybrid transmission.

The front electric motor contributes 272 PS and 360 Nm, while the rear motor delivers a substantial 408 PS and 400 Nm. Combined system output stands at a staggering 612 PS and 760 Nm of torque.

For a vehicle weighing well into 3-tonne territory, or 3,290 kg, those figures translate into genuinely shocking performance. Denza claims a 0-100 km/h sprint time of just 4.8 seconds, which is frankly absurd for something this large and heavy.

Like many Chinese-developed plug-in hybrids, the B8 prioritises electric driving as much as possible. The 36.8 kWh Blade lithium iron phosphate battery powers the vehicle almost exclusively until the state of charge drops to around 25%, at which point the combustion engine seamlessly steps in to sustain the battery and optimise efficiency.

The system intelligently transitions between Pure EV, series hybrid and parallel hybrid driving modes without the driver really noticing. On paper, the B8 can travel up to 115 km on electric power alone under the less strict NEDC cycle, translating to roughly 100 km in more realistic WLTP conditions.

Total combined driving range is rated at 1,040 km NEDC, thanks partly to an enormous 91-litre fuel tank that's significantly larger than the Tank 500’s 75 litre unit. Fuel consumption is claimed at as 'low' as 9.89 litres per 100 km under NEDC testing. 

Charging performance is equally solid for something this size. DC fast charging maxes out at 120 kW, enabling a 30-80% top-up in just 16 minutes. AC charging supports up to 11 kW, while vehicle-to-load functionality is also included, offering up to 6.6 kW of external power output. 

One of its standout features is Denza’s DiSus-P hydraulic suspension system, which provides up to 140 mm of adjustable ride height. Besides improving ground clearance, the system boosts the SUV’s wading depth from an already substantial 800 mm to 890 mm.

Approach and departure angles also improve significantly when fully raised, increasing from 30 and 29 degrees to 34 and 35 degrees respectively. There’s even a “Leopard Turn” function that's essentially Denza’s version of a tank turn, allowing the SUV to pivot tightly in confined terrain. 

Inside, the B8 shifts focus from ruggedness to outright luxury. Both variants come lavishly equipped with four soft-close doors (the boot also has a soft-close function), a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a massive 17.3-inch central touchscreen. Malaysia does miss out on the front passenger display available in China, but there is still plenty of tech onboard.

Other standard features include dual 50W wireless charging pads, a cooled and heated armrest storage compartment, tri-zone climate control and powered front seats with ventilation, heating and massage functions. Audio duties are handled by an 18-speaker Devialet sound system, marking the first time the French high-end audio brand has appeared in a Malaysian-market vehicle.

Rear passengers are also treated to thoughtful convenience features, and rear seat appointments can rival that of a luxury MPV with its lounge-like ambiance. A multifunction switch on the rear doors allows occupants to control the opposite-side window or even operate the sunroof blind. There is also a one-touch relaxation function that automatically moves the front passenger seat forward to maximise rear legroom. Both the second and third row seats can be electrically folded and raised as well. 

The Dynamic features a conventional 2-3-2 seven-seat layout, complete with a powered middle-row bench seat featuring heating and ventilation. Meanwhile, the Premium adopts a far more luxurious 2-2-2 arrangement with captain chairs, massage functionality, ventilation and Ottoman leg rests. It also gains full Nappa leather upholstery.

Boot capacity stands at 920 litres in the seven-seater and 902 litres in the six-seater with the rear-most seats folded, while both offer 147 litres with all rows upright. The Premium further separates itself with additional high-end features including infrared night vision, front and rear locking differentials, a digital rear-view mirror, a head-up display and dynamic side bolsters for the front seats.

Customers can choose from 5 exterior colours: Alpine White, Emerald Green, Nebula Blue, Dawn Gold and Eclipse Black – paired with either Jasper Brown or Onyx Black interior themes. Safety equipment is comprehensive too, with 9 airbags, including a front-centre airbag, alongside a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems featuring autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

Warranty coverage entails 6 years or 150,000 km for the vehicle, plus 8 years or 160,000 km for the high-voltage battery and hybrid drive unit components. Buyers also receive 7 complimentary maintenance services over 6 years worth RM10,000, along with a complimentary V2L adapter.

It's worth noting that the launch vehicles shown here were Australian-spec units, explaining the inclusion the rear tow hitch, which won't be available here. On a brighter note, the Premium variant for Malaysia does sound like one of the highest-spec export versions available globally outside China, where the Bao 8 also receives LiDAR technology.

Whether Malaysians are ready for a RM500k Chinese luxury off-roader remains to be seen, but one thing is certain, the Denza B8 does not arrive lacking ambition.

Mercedes-AMG has never exactly been known for subtlety, and its first bespoke high-performance EV looks set to continue that tradition in spectacularly ostentatious fashion. Unveiled ahead of its market launch, the all-new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe marks a dramatic shift into the electric era for Affalterbach, bringing with it up to 1,153 horsepower, a tri-motor powertrain, active aerodynamics, and perhaps the most controversial feature of all - an always-on simulated V8 soundtrack complete with fake gearshifts. Could it work? 

Let's get into the nitty gritty. Both of how this was sprung up on an unsuspecting automotive media fraternity, and its rather outrageous specs. On the design, we'll bite our tongues for the time being. 

First of all, Mercedes invited media to Germany primarily to sample the facelifted 2027 S-Class and its updated V8 engine, but tucked away during the program was an exclusive preview of the new electric AMG GT 4-Door Coupe. While the car’s outrageous performance figures immediately grab attention, a larger talking point is AMGFORCE Sport+, a new drive mode designed to recreate the sensory drama of a combustion-powered AMG. Colour us cautious, but open-minded.

This isn’t some half-hearted spaceship soundtrack pumped through the speakers, though that would be more tasteful. Instead, AMG says the sounds were developed using audio signatures derived from the legendary C190 AMG GT R, and the results are apparently shockingly convincing, if you can suspend disbelief sufficiently. The system doesn’t just play noise inside the cabin either, but projects externally as well, delivering a loud, aggressive idle and revving character intended to mimic a large-capacity AMG V8. Mimic.

Combined with simulated upshifts, haptic feedback and carefully engineered sound layering, the experience aims to make the EV feel less like a silent appliance and more like a traditional AMG monster. Early impressions suggest AMG’s sound engineers may have genuinely cracked the code on emotional EV theatre. 

Of course, the technology raises many questions. After all, if the same sound system were fitted to a regular EV crossover, it too could theoretically sound like a fire-breathing AMG GT R. But whether enthusiasts embrace it or not, Mercedes-AMG claims to understands something many brands still struggle with: emotion.

The mixed reception to the four-cylinder Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance showed just how important engine character remains to AMG buyers. But whether emotion can be evoked by merely the surface-level stimuli of expertly synthesised sounds and haptics remains a big unknown. Again, colour us cautious by open-minded.

Thankfully, the numbers backing up this EV are every bit as outrageous as the supposed soundtrack.

Built on the new AMG.EA dedicated electric platform, the GT 4-Door Coupé launches initially in GT 55 and GT 63 forms, both using a triple axial-flux motor setup supplied by YASA technology, the British EV motor specialist Mercedes-Benz acquired back in 2021. 

Compared to traditional radial-flux motors, axial-flux designs are significantly more compact and power-dense, allowing AMG to package immense performance into a relatively low-slung body. The rear drive unit integrates two axial-flux motors with a single-stage planetary gearbox, while the front motor can decouple entirely during low-load cruising to improve efficiency, creating a fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system.

The flagship GT 63 4-Door Coupé 4MATIC+ develops a staggering 1169PS and up to 2,000Nm of torque, enough for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint in just 2.4 seconds, or an even more absurd 2.1 seconds using the industry-favoured one-foot rollout measurement. Meanwhile, the “entry-level” GT 55 still produces 816PS and 1,800Nm, dispatching 0-100km/h in 2.8 seconds. So, far from a slouch. 

Both variants share a 106kWh battery pack running on an 800-volt electrical architecture, with Mercedes-AMG claiming a top speed of 300km/h when equipped with the optional Driver’s Package.

Despite the performance focus, Mercedes-AMG is also making huge charging claims. The battery pack contains 2,660 cylindrical cells across 18 modules, with each cell directly cooled using a non-conductive oil-based coolant to maintain thermal consistency during repeated hard driving and ultra-fast charging sessions.

On sufficiently powerful DC infrastructure, the company claims the GT 4-Door Coupé can recover more than 460km of WLTP driving range in just 10 minutes. It can also reportedly add 70kWh in 10 minutes or 41kWh in five minutes, although achieving those figures will naturally require access to chargers capable of delivering the necessary power.

Official WLTP range figures are impressive too, with the GT 55 rated between 597km and 700km depending on specification, while the GT 63 manages between 596km and 696km.

Underneath, AMG hasn’t skimped on chassis technology. The GT 4-Door Coupé receives AMG Active Ride Control air suspension with semi-active roll stabilisation, active rear-wheel steering and multi-link suspension front and rear.

Rear-wheel steering can angle up to six degrees. Below 80km/h, the rear wheels steer opposite the fronts to improve agility, while above that speed they turn in phase for greater high-speed stability.

Braking performance is handled by carbon-ceramic front brakes paired with steel rear units, supported by regenerative braking systems.

Aerodynamics also play a major role in the car’s performance and efficiency. The GT features active front air panels, deployable underbody venturi elements, an extendable rear spoiler and an active rear diffuser. Mercedes-AMG claims a remarkably slippery drag coefficient of just 0.22, while wheel options ranging from 19 to 21 inches can also influence aerodynamic efficiency and range.

Inside, the cabin blends luxury and track-focused functionality, but pretty much goes wild with screen real estate. Drivers get a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a 14.0-inch central infotainment display, with an optional 14.0-inch passenger screen also available. Physical AMG Race Engineer rotary controls remain on the centre console, allowing direct adjustment of response settings, traction characteristics and cornering behaviour.

Series production of the new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe is scheduled to begin in mid-2026 at Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen plant in Germany, while the axial-flux motors will be built separately in Berlin-Marienfelde. As always with new models from that corner of the world, we won’t expect its arrival in Southeast Asia to be a real priority in its global rollout timeline. Still, we would be very curious to drive one.