03/05/2026

theSunday Special XVI ON SUNDAY MAY 3, 2026

Yaris Cross hits market, targets budget SUV buyers ORDER BOOKS for the 2026 Toyota Yaris Cross 2026 have offi cially opened in Malaysia, just days after its teaser debut. Priced from RM99,900, the compact SUV will be offered in two variants: the Yaris Cross 1.5S and the hybrid Yaris Cross 1.5 HEV, priced at RM109,900. Both variants come with a five year warranty, while the hybrid model adds an eight-year warranty covering the battery, inverter, and power management control ECU. Compared to its twin, the Perodua Traz, which is priced between RM76,100 and RM82,000, the Yaris Cross sits higher in the range, reflect ing its added features and hybrid technology built on the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) platform. Notably, the Asean-spec model differs from the version sold in Europe. Even the base 1.5S variant is well equipped, offering features such as an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a kick-sensor powered tailgate, and roof rails. The hybrid 1.5 HEV enhances safety with adaptive cruise control and automatic high beam, as part of the Toyota Safety Sense suite. Across both variants, buyers can expect a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 18-inch wheels, ambi ent blue interior lighting, and a 7.0 inch TFT digital instrument cluster with multiple display modes. Under the hood, the 1.5S is pow ered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated 2NR-VE engine producing 106PS and 138Nm of torque, paired with a Daihatsu D-CVT transmission driving the front wheels. The hybrid variant uses a 2NR VEX Atkinson-cycle engine produc ing 91PS and 121Nm, combined with an electric motor delivering 80PS and 141Nm. Together, the system outputs 111PS and includes an EV mode for improved efficiency. Available colour options include Dark Turquoise, Silver Metallic, Attitude Black, Spicy Scarlet SE, and Platinum Pearl White, offering buy ers a range of stylish choices.

MERCEDES-BENZ has offi cially unveiled the all-new 2026 Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV, a direct rival to upcoming electric executive sedans like the BMW Neue Klasse i3. On the design front, the new model adopts a more coupe-like silhouette, with a fastback rear and an illumi nated front grille featuring over 1,000 individual lighting elements. In terms of size, the electric C-Class measures 4,883mm in length with a 2,962mm wheel base, along with a 470-litre boot and an additional 101-litre front trunk. Under the skin, the C-Class EV features a new electric drive unit with a two-speed transmission, aimed at improv ing both low-speed accelera tion and high-speed efficiency. Recuperation has also been increased, with up to 300kW of energy recovery available. At launch, the headline

Mercedes claims up to 325km of range can be added in just 10 minutes, while a 10 to 80% charge takes around 22 minutes. The model also supports bidirectional charging, allowing it to function as an energy source for homes or the grid. Comfort and refinement remain a key focus, with fea tures such as Airmatic air sus pension, rear-wheel steering, advanced noise insulation and a multi-source heat pump sys tem designed to improve effi ciency and cabin comfort. The new electric C-Class also introduces a range of driver assistance systems under the MB.Drive suite, sup ported by up to 27 sensors, alongside over-the-air update capability for continuous fea ture upgrades. More variants, including rear-wheel drive models and additional battery options, are expected to follow.

Mercedes ups EV game

powered by a 94kWh battery, delivering a WLTP-rated range of up to 762km, placing it among the longest-range EVs in its segment. Charging is handled via an 800V architecture, supporting DC fast charging of up to 330kW.

model is the C 400 4Matic electric, featuring dual motors and all-wheel drive. It pro duces up to 360kW (around 490PS) and 800Nm of torque, enabling a 0 to 100kph time of 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 210kph. The new electric C-Class is

Wey doubles down

combined 748PS. Battery options also differ. A 66.6kWh pack provides up to 402km of electric range and 1,632km combined range (CLTC cycle). A smaller 55.4kWh battery delivers 310km electric and 1,656km combined range, while the largest 80kWh pack offers up to 470km electric and 1,700km combined. The V9X features advanced lighting technology, including the Hi Light intel ligent headlight system with projection functions and animated welcome sequences. Inside, the cabin is highly digitalised with dual 17.3-inch displays, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a 21.4-inch rear screen powered by a Qualcomm 8295P chip. A 31-speaker Coffee AI Sound sys tem enhances audio quality. Luxury is emphasised with Nappa leather seats, including a “zero-gravity” second-row seat with massage func tions. Advanced driving tech includes 27 sensors, a high-performance autono mous driving chip, air suspension, adaptive damping, and rear-wheel steering. In China, the V9X is priced between approximately RM214,000 and RM237,000, suggesting competitive positioning when it arrives in Malaysia. road users in general. Thus far, Chery has delivered over 30,073 vehicles nationwide via its ever expanding network of nearly 60 deal erships and aftersales outlets. As for Omoda Jaecoo, the brand sold 17,849 units in 2025 for an impressive 150% year on year growth. Moving forward, Chery and Touch ’n Go will collaborate closely on upcoming marketing campaigns aimed at increas ing public awareness, understanding and usage of RFID. Flagship V9X to boost premium positioning in local lineup

GWM’S premium sub-brand Wey automotive brand is set to expand its Malaysian lineup beyond the current Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV MPV with the upcoming arrival of its flagship SUV, the Wey V9X. This move will effectively double the brand’s offerings in the local market. Built on the new GMW

One platform, the V9X is offered in three plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants, each differing in electric motor outputs and battery capacities. All variants share a 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four

petrol engine producing 238PS, paired with a dedicated 4-speed hybrid transmission. The SUV also features dual electric motors (one on each axle), an 800V electrical architecture, and ultra-fast 6C charging capability. Performance varies significantly across the lineup. The base model com bines a 136PS front motor with a 229PS rear motor for a total of 680PS. The mid-spec variant upgrades the rear motor to 326PS, delivering 693PS. The flagship version pushes perform ance further with a 150PS front motor and 367PS rear motor, producing a

Chery embraces cashless roads

A NEW strategic col laboration agree ment signed between Chery Corporate Malaysia and Touch ‘n Go will see all new cars sold by the group in Malaysia to be fitted with RFID tags.

Aside from Chery models, the agree ment will also include Omoda Jaecoo and iCaur models. Chery views Touch ‘n Go’s push towards a seamless tolling experience as a key factor in reducing congestion. Considering that RFID technology is compatible with the upcoming Single Lane Fast Flow (SLFF) and Multilane Fast Flow (MLFF) systems, the move would be a boon to new owners and