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Kia Sales Malaysia takes over distributorship from Bermaz Auto – names ex-Jaecoo Emily Lek as MD
InCars,Kia,Local News /byGerard Lye/
Kia Corporation has announced it is moving to a principal-led model in Malaysia, with Kia Sales Malaysia set to manage the brand’s sales, aftersales, training as well as all wholesale and retail operations in our market effective January 1, 2026.
Established on November 3 this year, Kia Sales Malaysia is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kia Corporation and would be the equivalent of Honda Malaysia, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and other OEMs directly controlled by their respective HQs –Hyundai went through a similar transition in June this year. Kia Sales Malaysia will be led by Hyung Ho Kim as its president and CEO, with ex-Omoda | Jaecoo vice president Emily Lek set to formally become its managing director effective January 2026.
“Kia is excited to reinvigorate our brand presence in Malaysia. We believe our innovation- and customer-centric strategy will enhance how fans experience the brand as we continue to support the growth of Malaysia’s economy and automotive industry. We are here to stay and, aligned to our ‘Movement That Inspires’ brand vision, we are dedicated to building a future that inspires new experiences and sustainable mobility,” said Ki Seok Ahn, president and CEO of Kia Asia Pacific.
“Among the milestones the automotive industry and fans of the brand can anticipate from the new principal-led move include enhancements to the Kia dealer network, investments in aftersales service and new model launches,” the company wrote in its release.
If you’re wondering why the company isn’t just called ‘Kia Malaysia’, that’s because there’s already a company by that name here – KMSB – that manages Kia’s local assembly operation in Kulim, Kedah. KMSB was formed afterKia Motors partnered with Bermaz Auto (BAuto) in April 2021, which also saw the appointment of BAuto’s subsidiary Dinamikjaya Motors as the South Korean brand’s official distributor in Malaysia.
The Kia-BAuto partnership has since been concluded and the transition process is currently ongoing. At present, customers can continue to engage with authorised Kia service centres for their aftersales needs, and all vehicle bookings made before November 30 will continue to be fulfilled. However, new bookings will be temporarily paused for the entire month of December 2025.
“We thank Bermaz Group for their dedication to the Kia brand over the past four years and the seamless handover during this transition period. The return of Kia operations to a principal-led model is timely as the market remains hungry for new experiences and value from automotive brands,” commented said Hyung Ho Kim.
“We are grateful to our loyal fans for staying with us through the years and look forward to curating an inspiring ownership experience that proves why a Kia is designed to meet the unique lifestyle needs of both existing and new fans alike,” he added.
New Perodua QV-E teaser shows more of exterior; brand’s first electric vehicle to be launched next week?
InCars,Local News,Perodua /byMick Chan/
Perodua has released another teaser for its upcoming EV, which we now know to beconfirmed to be called the QV-E.
The latest video is a brief one, just nine seconds long, and like thevideo teasers that have come before, this one aims to emphasise the homegrown aspect of the carmaker’s first EV. “Because no one builds for Malaysians like Malaysians do”, reads the text.
The latest video reveals an exterior that wears angular shapes on its side, complementing those of the front fascia of the vehicle as revealed in ascreengrab from an earlier Perodua video. Certain, now-popular design cues can be found here, such as the full-width light bars at the front and rear of the QV-E.
Perodua president and CEO Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad has said earlier that the carmaker holds the intellectual property (IP) for the EV’s design and platform, even it it usesLFP batteries supplied by CATL. The QV-E will also be launched with a battery leasing scheme, the first passenger car in Malaysia to do so.
On that subject, battery capacity for the QV-E has been disclosed to be 52.5 kWh, and the EV’s real-world range can be expected to be between 400 km and 410 km. In terms of rivals from fellow Malaysian brand Proton, the QV-E is more closely comparable to theeMas 7, which has a claimed range of 410 km (WLTP).
Performance targets for the QV-E is a 0-100 km/h time of between six to seven seconds, and a top speed of around 160 km/h, whereas the recently-launchedProton eMas 5 has an acceleration time quoted in the 0-50 km/h measure instead, which is elapsed in 4.4 seconds.
From our earlier look at a cross-section display example of the QV-E, this upcoming model has been observed to be significantly larger than a Myvi, and rather closer to the B-segment Proton X50 in exterior size, though the QV-E wears a lower, sportier roofline.
Its observed size makes it larger than the Proton eMas 5, and the upcoming battery-electric Perodua is certainly not priced to undercut the eMas 5, as the QV-E is expected to be priced around the RM80k mark. Perodua is not targeting the masses with this model, and thus ultimate affordability isn’t the main goal.
Perodua’s first electric vehicle will be a big deal, not just for the carmaker; this will be made an ‘important national agenda’ in line with the government’s efforts to strengthen governance, social responsibility and protection of the environment, said prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim earlier this month.
“I will instruct the cabinet that the launch of Perodua’s new EV is made to be a big national agenda. It’s not just a product launch, but it combines governance, social responsibility dan environmental protection,” Anwar said.
GALLERY: Perodua QV-E cross-section at GATE 2025
GALLERY: Perodua eMO final prototype at MAS 2025
Toyota GR GT supercar teased with 2000GT and Lexus LFA in Japan commercial ahead of December 5 debut
InCars,International News,Toyota /byGerard Lye/
At this year’s Japan Mobility Show (JMS), Toyota announced that it would reveal its newGR-branded supercar on December 5, 2025, with a public debut set for next year’s Tokyo Auto Salon. Set to be called the GR GT, the brand’s upcoming flagship road car has now been teased in a commercial that aired in Japan recently.
In the video, we are first introduced to the 2000GT and its inline-six engine before it is overtaken by a Lexus LFA, the latter with its howling V10. Next comes the GR GT without any camouflage and the words ‘The Soul Lives On’, followed by a reminder of the December 5 debut date and a rear shot of the supercar.
The GR GT was previewed by theGT Concept, with a camouflaged prototype participating at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. The event also saw the motorsport-focused GT Racing Concept – previewed by theGR GT3 Concept – taking part in the famous hillclimb.
By brightening up screencaps of the video, we can make out some of the details of the GR GT like its vented bonnet and high-mounted side intakes that are a reference to the LFA. The aggressive LED headlamps with integrated L-shaped daytime running lights are reminiscent of those on the GR86, while other cues are a slim grille, large front intakes and a long, sculpted hood.
As for the view from the rear, the full-width taillights are joined by large outlets, wide shoulders as well as an integrated ducktail spoiler. The exhaust pipes aren’t visible, although it is reported they will be integrated into the diffuser (the race version will get side-exit exhausts instead).
We don’t get a shot of the interior in the commercial but the official livestream of the Goodwood event showed a large infotainment display set above a row of physical controls. The prototype’s cabin is a mix of red leather and Alcantara, with the hide material being used for padding on the carbon-fibre bucket seats.
In terms of the powertrain, the GR GT will have a new twin-turbo V8 that is expected to benefit from hybrid assistance. This system is also expected to be retuned for use in the production version of theLexus Sport Concept that made its debut at The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering event held in August – it also appeared at JMS.
Proton bought RM3.2 billion worth of parts and components from Malaysian vendors this year – Zafrul
InCars,Local News /byJonathan James Tan/
Investment, trade and industry ministerTengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz revealed in his speech atlast night’s 2026 Proton Saga MC3 launch that Proton has bought RM3.2 billion worth of parts and components from Malaysian vendors this year,Bernama reports.
The report adds that Proton’s localisation programme has introduced 18 new technologies and forged joint ventures in areas such as fuel pumps, electronic gearshift modules andCVTs.
“Beyond producing cars, Proton is continuing to strengthen our automotive industrial backbone, from EV platforms and powertrain testing to localisation of key components, deepening the nation’s competitiveness. These commitments also drive investments that generate jobs and national economic value,” he said.
“Proton’s work in EV platforms and advanced manufacturing is a vital contribution to this vision, including through theAutomotive High-Tech Valley in Tanjong Malim, the opening of itsfirst EV plant, and its partnership with theMalaysia Automotive, Robotics & IoT Institute (MARii) to establish theNational Automotive Test Centre (NATC).
“Policies under the investment, trade and industry ministry (MITI), such as theNational Automotive Policy (NAP) and theNew Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), have played a significant role in strengthening local industry players, including Proton,” he added.
Comparatively, with ahigh localisation rate across its entire line-up, Perodua has purchasedover tens of billions of ringgit in components from local suppliers over the past couple of years, withRM10.8 billion expected this year. P2 has also collaborated with MARii (known then as the Malaysia Automotive Institute) on theNational Emission Test Centre (NETC).
2026 Yamaha Ego Gear Pro for Malaysia, RM6,198
InBikes,Local Bike News,Yamaha /byMohan K Ramanujam/
Now in Malaysia is the 2026 Yamaha Ego Gear Pro Hybrid for Malaysia, priced at RM6,198. Targetted towards the budget conscious Malaysian scooter rider, pricing for the Ego Gear Pro Hybrid does not include road tax, insurance and registration, and comes with a two-year or 20,000 km warranty against manufacturing defects.
New for the Ego Gear Pro Hybrid is the Power Assist function, that automatically provides extra power when accelerating from a stop, especially when riding with a passenger or starting uphill, up to a maximum speed of 30 km/h. Combined with the Smart Motor Generator (SMG) for stop-start riding and single-push on the start button, the Ego Gear Pro Hybrid provides a smoother riding experience.
Power comes from Yamaha’s Blue Core Hybrid single-cylinder engine, with SOHC and air-cooled, displacing 125 cc. The Ego Gear Pro Hybrid delivers 8.4 PS at 6,500 rpm, with a maximum torque of 9.9 Nm at 5,000 rpm, going to the rear wheel via CVT automatic gearbox.
Wheel sizing is symmetrical on both ends of the Ego Gear pro Hybrid, with 110/70 tyres mounted on 12-inch alloy rims. Braking is done with a single hydraulic disc brake in front and mechanical drum brake in the rear, while suspension uses conventional telescopic forks and single preload-adjustable shock absorber at the back.
A monochrome LCD panel displays all the necessary riding information and features Yamaha Y-Connect with connectivity to the rider’s smartphone, with call and message notifications, maintenance reminders, fuel-usage data and last location, as well as answer back for locating the Ego Gear Pro Hybrid in crowded parking areas.
5.1-litres of fuel is carried in the tank while an 18.3-litre volume storage compartment is located under the seat, with two front cowl pockets for holding miscellaneous items. Seat height on the Ego Gear Hybrid Pro is set at 750 mm while weight is listed at 95 kg, and there are three colour options available – Stellar White, Navy Green, and Cosmic Blu.
Euro NCAP 2026 protocol targets annoying ADAS warnings, interventions; physical buttons’ availability
InInternational News,Safety /byMick Chan/
Euro NCAP has announced what it calls the largest revision of its assessment programme since the introduction of its rating system in 2009, and the update will take effect in 2026.
These changes involve an overhaul of vehicle testing and scoring procedures, said Euro NCAP, and a new rating methodology is built around four pillars of safety. These are safe driving, crash avoidance, crash protection, and post-crash safety.
Several changes to the Euro NCAP testing programme have been made in response to consumer feedback, it says, such as in the case of driving assistance systems which have been criticised for their annoying warnings or intrusive interventions, and these will be evaluated not just for their ability to prevent crashes, but also for real-world driving in order to improve consumer acceptance.
For the highest ratings, priority will be given to vehicles with continuous tracking of the driver’s eyes and head, and link information of the driver’s state to the sensitivity of assistance systems.
Assessment of the human-machine interface (HMI) will be introduced, and this will evaluate the placement, clarity, and ease of use of essential controls, including the availability ofphysical buttons for commonly-used functions; this has been suggested through consumer feedback to reduce distraction, says Euro NCAP.
Higher scores will also be awarded to vehicles which are able to detect when seatbelts are correctly worn, and for vehicles which are able to optimise restraint and airbag systems for occupants of different physiques.
Test scenarios will be expanded to “improve the robustness of crash-prevention systems”, in particular for conditions which are more representative of real-world conditions, Euro NCAP said. The new focus on real-world effectiveness of systems will see a more rigorous approach to the testing of systems, such as AEB and lane support (lane keep assist) systems.
These will “reflect real-world accident patterns” including urban situations where cyclists and motorcyclists are encountered, and these systems will also be rated for their “smoothness and intuitiveness”, in response to user criticism of intrusive and unpredictable intervention.
Vehicles capable of reducing the risk of pedal misapplication will be awarded more points, and this will be assessed as part of a new set of low-speed collision tests that include “cyclist dooring” risk, or the risk of doors being opened in the path of an approaching cyclist.
Crash protection evaluation will be expanded to include a wider range of occupant body sizes, from children to shorter and taller adult occupants. This will employ full-scale crash tests, laboratory sled tests and advanced virtual simulations to improve accuracy and promote more adaptive restraint systems, it said.
For post-crash safety, the new standards will requireelectrically-powered exterior door handles to continue functioning for easier rescue of vehicle occupants, and proper high-voltage battery isolation in electric vehicles will be mandated, among other updates aimed at assisting first responders.
Vehicles with automated emergency notifications will be required to provide the number of occupants in the vehicle involved in an incident, even when seatbelts are not fastened, in order to support quicker, more accurate emergency response following a collision, Euro NCAP stated.
For electric vehicles, post-crash safety measures to be required of them will include the ability to correctly manage the isolation of the high-voltage battery, and be able to communicate the risk of battery fire and issue the warning in a timely manner, if the battery fire occurs during charging, or after a crash.
Lotus to launch first PHEV in China in Q1 2026 – 900V platform, over 1,000 km range, 952 PS, air suspension
InCars,International News,Lotus /byGerard Lye/
Lotus Technology has announced its new product roadmap that will see the launch of its first plug-in hybrid next year. This was revealed by CEO Feng Qingfeng during the company’s third quarter 2025 earnings conference call earlier this week.
Lotus’ first PHEV model will go on sale in China in the first quarter of 2026, with a preview set to take place sometime in January the same year. Expected to be aversion of the Eletre SUV, it will be built on the company’s Hyper Hybrid platform and is said to deliver over 1,000 km of combined hybrid driving range.
Said platform features a 900-volt electrical architecture for ultra-fast charging and will come equipped with dual-chamber air suspension as well as a 48-volt active roll stabilisation to deliver “ultimate handling.” No shortage of power too, with the PHEV model claimed to provide 952 PS (939 hp or 700 kW), which is more than the current-day Eletre 900 with 918 PS (905 hp or 657 kW).
A second PHEV model, currently dubbed Vision X, will also be introduced, although this will happen after the first – possibly from 2027 – with the timeline yet to be decided. The company says it is introducing PHEVs to provide buyers with more options, including in regions with slower EV adoption.
At present, Lotus has three electric vehicles (EVs), namely the Evija, Eletre, Emeya, along with one internal combustion engine (ICE) model, theEmira, in its line-up. Referring to the roadmap, the Emira, which got an updated this year, will receive a facelift in 2027 and looks set to remain on sale on through 2030. Meanwhile, global distribution of the sold-out Evija is ongoing and is expected to be completed by 2028. The mainlineEletre and Emeya were also updated this year.
Lotus Technology is based in Wuhan, China and is not to be confused with Lotus Advance Technologies, which is headquartered in Hethel, England. The former produces the Eletre and Emeya, while the latter is responsible for the Evija and Emira. In July 2025, it was announced that Lotus Technology will acquire 100% of the equity interest of Lotus Advance Technologies, with all business operations integrated under the Lotus brand – this is expected to be completed in 2026.
Geely EX2 priced at RM51k-55k equivalent in Thailand – top model is cheaper than base Proton eMas 5
InCars,Geely,International News /byJonathan James Tan/
Pics fromAutolifeThailand TheGeely EX2‘s Thai prices are out – 399,990 baht (RM51k) for the Pro and 429,990 baht (RM55k) for the Max, reportsAutolifeThailand. That’s quite a bit cheaper than our RM57k-70kProton eMas 5, so it’s comparison time. Thailand gets their car CBU from China – so do we currently;our CKD will come later.
Before you all get yoursarongs in a twist, bear in mind that Thailand’s entry-level EV market is very crowded, competitive and cut-throat.Geely entered Thailand comparatively late, when there were already a lot of established brands, so the EX2 is priced accordingly. Whereas in Malaysia, the eMas 5 is the first and only sub-RM100k EV (so far), so it’s in a class of its own. It was also well received withover 10,000 bookings so far, unprecedented for an EV here.
In Thailand, both Pro and Max variants get a 116 PS/150 Nm rear electric motor (like our eMas 5 Premium); there seems to be no lesser option like our eMas 5 Prime’s 79 PS/130 Nm unit. Same story with the battery – the Thai EX2 gets only one 39.4 kWh choice yielding a 395 km NEDC range (compared to the eMas 5’s 30.12/40.16 kWh and 225/325 km WLTP). 39.4 kWh is likely the net figure to the 40.16 kWh’s gross, meaning that the EX2 gets the bigger battery as standard.
Pics fromAutolifeThailand Equipment-wise, the specs are largely the same, but the EX2 does add on a few things not available on the eMas 5, such as a wireless phone charger, a powered driver’s seat and a tonneau cover, which Pro-Net may offer laterà la eMas 7.
Also, the base EX2 Pro already gets automatic LED projector headlamps and a leather steering wheel, both of which we need to buy the eMas 5 Premium to enjoy. The Proton fights back with instantly-available Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (only supported from 2Q25 for Thai buyers) and a powered tailgate, which the Geely doesn’t get in Thailand.
Another difference is the EX2’s passenger-side dashboard and door cards have a cityscape ambient lighting motif instead of theshooting stars on the eMas 5.
On to colours – the Thai car can be had in Nebula Beige, Comet Grey, Star Silver and Moon White (the top-spec Max additionally gets an Aurora Green choice; all Max cars have black roofs), while the interior is either Skyline White or Horizon Grey depending on the variant.
Meanwhile, our eMas 5 can be had in Moonstone White, Graphite Silver and Slate Grey (the top-spec Premium additionally gets Marble Cream and Quartz Rose choices; all Premium cars have black roofs). The interior is Alabaster White if the exterior is either Marble Cream or Quartz Rose; otherwise it’s Flint Grey.
Warranties? Thai Geely distributor Thonburi Neustern is offering six years/160,000 km for the vehicle, eight years/180,000 km for the battery and eight years’ free 24-hour roadside assistance, while Proton’s package consists of a six-year/unlimited mileage vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000 km battery and powertrain warranty.
Geely EX2 in Thailand
Proton eMas 5 Premium in Malaysia
2025 Mercedes-Benz S580e in Malaysia – full gallery of updated luxury PHEV sedan with 60 kW DC, RM739k
InCars,Local News,Mercedes-Benz /byJonathan James Tan/
TheW223 Mercedes-Benz S580e wasupdated in Malaysia in September, and here we bring you a comprehensive gallery of the luxury PHEV sedan that’s yours forRM738,888, OTR before insurance.
Still locally-assembled (CKD), the updated S580e wears 20-inch forged and polished multi-spoke alloys (previously 19s) and new EQ Hybrid badges on the front wings to signify the repositioning of Stuttgart’s EV and PHEV models – the latter now carrying the embarrassingly long ‘with EQ Hybrid Technology‘ suffix.
Inside, the S580e’s centre console receives crystalline-look trim with dotted lines instead of the usualpiano black, which should hopefully make fingerprints less noticeable. More importantly, the front seats are finally ventilated to match the rears, addressing our main gripe with theoutgoing model.
Perhaps the biggest news is that the S580e now supports DC fast charging at up to 60 kW, meaning that a full charge for the 28.6 kWh battery now takes as little as 30 minutes. As before, the car has a pure electric range of 100 km on the WLTP cycle and can be charged through AC power at up to 11 kW, so topping up to 80% charge takes around two to two-and-a-half hours.
No change to the rest of the mechanicals, led by an M256 3.0 litre turbo straight-six, producing 367 PS from 5,500 to 6,100 rpm and 500 Nm of torque between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm. Sandwiched between it and the 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic gearbox is a 150 PS/440 Nm electric motor, contributing to a total system output of 510 PS and 750 Nm and getting it from zero to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. Airmatic air suspension still comes as standard, but rear-wheel steering has been added, albeit only at the halfway-house 4.5 degrees.
As befits a true flagship, the kit list remains long and includes Digital Light headlamps, flush pop-out door handles, soft-close doors, keyless entry, a panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, power-adjustable seats with memory and cushion headrests, a 12.3-inch 3D-effect instrument display, a 12.8-inch portrait OLED touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Qi wireless charging front and rear and a 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system. Bizarrely, this car still does not offer a head-up display.
Meanwhile,towkays at the back luxuriate in powered executive seats with a passenger-side ottoman, replete with a massage function that extends to the calves. They also get their own 7.4-inch tablet, wireless headphones and dual 11.6-inch touchscreens as part of the MBUX High-End Rear Entertainment package, as well as powered rear and side sunshades, seat belt feeders, illuminated belt buckles and active ambient lighting to match the front. A powered boot lid with independent locking opens to a 350-litre boot.
Safety-wise, the S580e continues to come as standard with park assist, a 360-degree camera system, a built-in dash cam function and the full complement of 14 airbags, including a centre airbags and rear front and side airbags, plus belt bags and rear seat cushion airbags to prevent submarining.
You also get the Driving Assistance package, which includes autonomous emergency braking with improved cross traffic detection, adaptive cruise control with stop and go (preventing collisions at up to 130 km/h) and lane centring assist for Level 2 semi-autonomous driving. Pre-Safe and Pre-Safe Impulse Side – the latter raising the car up to better protect occupants in a side impact collision – are also fitted. Warranties are four years with unlimited mileage on the vehicle and eight years/160,000 km on the battery.
MyDigital ID replaces password-based method as sole login method for MyJPJ app starting February 1, 2026
InLocal News /byGerard Lye/
The road transport department (JPJ) has announced that MyDigital ID will be thesole login method for the MyJPJ app beginning February 1, 2026.
This replaces the current method of entering your 12-digit identification card (IC) number and password, although users under the age of 18 as well as MyPR card holders will continue to use this method.
In an official release, the department said users that have not registered for the MyJPJ app are already able log in using MyDigital ID, which is important to prevent unauthorised access and fake accounts.
It added that as of November 27, 2025, around 13 million users have downloaded or registered for the MyJPJ app. From that figure, 1.3 million users are already using their MyDigital ID to log into the app, while 11 million users will need to undergo the pre-registration process via facial recognition to register for MyDigital ID.
You can download the MyDigital ID app via theGoogle Play Store,Apple App Store orHuawei AppGallery.
Fallen tree reported by KLCCC at Carcosa exit of Jalan Damansara – traffic flow slow; use alternative routes
InLocal News /byGerard Lye/
Traffic flow is slow on Jalan Damansara from the Duta tunnel direction due to a fallen tree at the Carcosa exit that is blocking the left lane, reports the Kuala Lumpur Command and Control Centre (KLCCC).
UPDATE:As of 11.52am, KLCCC reports the work of cutting and removing the fallen tree has been completed.
As of 9.17am, the Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) emergency team are at the location to assist traffic police, traffic warden and DBKL ranger teams that first responded to the incident at around 8.48am.
If plan to head towards KL Sentral or Bangsar and plan to use Jalan Damansara, it’s best to find another route until the tree is cleared. Heavy rainfall is likely the cause of the fallen tree, as a similar incident happened at the exact location in September this year, as reported byThe Star.
Jalan Damansara: Terdapat pokok tumbang dilokasi susur naik Carcosa dari arah Terowong Duta, lorong kiri terhalang, aliran trafik perlahan dilokasi. Polis Trafik, Warden Trafik dan Ranger KLC3 02 di lokasi.#kltu@DBKL2u@kwp_mypic.twitter.com/te0pQO0vo5
— KLCCC DBKL (@KLCCC_DBKL)November 28, 2025
2026 Proton Saga MC3 full ASEAN NCAP report – four-star rating awarded under outgoing 2021-2025 protocol
InCars,Local News,Proton,Safety /byMick Chan/
The ASEAN NCAP (New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries) has released the full assessment report for the2026 Proton Saga MC3 that was launched earlier today, reiterating that the latest model from the national carmaker has achieved a four-star rating under the outgoing 2021-2025 protocol, following theearlier announcement that was made in October.
With the Standard as the variant tested here, the newly-launched sedan model achieved 23.72 out of a possible 32.00 points in the adult occupant protection (AOP) assessment, 38.17 from a possible 51.00 points in the child occupant protection (COP) assessment, 14.00 from a possible 21.00 points in the safety assist assessment, and 7.00 from a possible 16.00 points in the motorcyclist safety (MS) assessment.
In the adult occupant protection (AOP) assessment, the front occupant compartment of the Saga was deemed to have remained stable in the frontal offset impact test, however of note was the marginal protection observed for the driver’s chest, for which marginal protection was also observed in the side impact test.
Safety assistance systems in the Proton Saga MC3 included autonomous emergency braking (AEB), forward collision warning, lane departure warning and blind spot detection, along with two airbags, ESC, ABS, seatbelt reminders for both front occupants, and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
In the motorcyclist safety assessment, the 2026 Saga MC3 obtained a bonus point for offering advanced motorcyclist safety technology through the AEB for motorcycle functionality as optional equipment.
Across the AOP, COP, safety assist and motorcyclist safety assessment categories, the Saga MC3 achieved a maximum star rating of four stars for each respective category, thus with a weighted score of 66.70 points, it arrives at the overall ASEAN NCAP rating of four stars.
Proton AMA platform to spawn new models beyond Saga, to be brand’s key weapon for export expansion
InLocal News,Proton /byMick Chan/
At today’slaunch of the 2025 Proton Saga MC3, DRB-Hicom group managing director Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar has announced that future models from the national carmaker will emerge from the Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA) that underpins the latest iteration of the Saga.
Being modular in nature, the AMA can be stretched or shortened to suit the vehicle to emerge from the platform, thus offering the potential forseveral new Saga bodystyles to emerge, including a hatchback, an MPV and an SUV.
In terms of the just-launched Saga MC3, Proton’s latest model gets hot-press-formed (HPF) steel B-pillars and floor cross member, along with an advanced-high-strength steel roof cross member and high-strength steel door bars. These updates have made the body stiffer to the extent that the new model is able to do away with the old car’s strut brace, and thus retain itsfour-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating.
Proton Saga hatchback, Saga Cross rendered by Theophilus Chin According to Proton, the AMA is “flexible, scalable and future-ready” and it is designed to meet international safety, performance and efficiency standards, and that Proton owns the full intellectual property rights to the platform, which reinforces its “growing engineering capability,” it said.
Proton has also said that it is open to collaboration across the wider Geely group, “potentially positioning Malaysia as a regional engineering hub for future model development,” it had said. The broadening of product offerings based on the AMA platform will go towards Proton’s growth ambitions, including on the international level.
The national carmaker is present in 18 export markets currently, and it is expecting to see a 10-fold increase in sales volume in the next five years through growth in international markets, minister of investment, trade and industry Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Aziz said at today’s launch of the 2026 Proton Saga MC3.
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium
2026 Proton Saga MC3 launched – Standard RM38k, Executive RM44k, Premium RM49k, 120 PS 1.5L 4-cyl
InCars,Local Car Launches,Local News,Proton /byJonathan Lee/
At long last, after months of spyshots, leaks, teasers and previews, thenew Proton Saga has been launched in Malaysia – just in time to celebrate its nameplate’s 40th anniversary. We already know everything that’s new about the evergreen budget sedan, from its revitalised design to the all-new engine and controversial transmission choice, but now we finally get to know the price as it officially goes on sale.
It goes without saying that the Saga is a hugely important new product, not just within the historical context (first Proton model, over2.1 million units sold), but also the fact that it competes with Perodua’s top-selling model. Building a (mostly) successful line of SUVs is one thing, but if the national carmaker reallywants to be Malaysia’s #1 car brand, it will by definition have to steal sales from the current top dog at some point.
Where better than from theBezza, whichsold over 100,000 units last year, making up nearly a third of all Perodua sales, compared to the less than 70,000 Sagas that left dealer lots. With this new model, Proton has a car that is claimed to be at last almost as frugal, all while being much more powerful and offering a higher level of kit and technology – and it has already secured 20,000 bookings for it. Let’s take a closer look.
Prices slightly lower than expected, from RM37,990
Let’s get straight to the most important part. The new Saga is available in Standard, Executive and Premium versions, streamlining the rather confusing previous lineup that consisted of the Standard M/T, Standard Lite A/T, Standard A/T, Premium A/T and Premium S A/T.
Prices start fromRM38,990 for the Standard, rising up toRM44,990 for the Executive andRM49,990 for the Premium. Proton is also offering an RM1,000 rebate for early-bird buyers, valid until the end of the year. With this, the official pricing is as follows:
- Proton Saga 1.5 Standard A/T –RM37,990
- Proton Saga 1.5 Executive A/T –RM43,990
- Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT –RM48,990
All figures are on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of the usual five-year/150,000 km warranty and free labour for the first three service intervals. The Saga was estimated to retail from RM40,000 to RM50,000, and if you were one of the over 10,000 people that pre-ordered one before today, you will receive a special edition Touch ‘n Go card and a full year of free service (including parts and labour).
These go on top of a launch package that includes either RM1,500 in additional trade-in value or RM2,000 for traded-in vehicles older than 15 years. There’s also financing interest rates from as low as 2.6% per annum and an upgraded insurance programme with special perils coverage, up to RM2,000 in upgraded flood relief and personal accident coverage for passengers at up to RM1,500 per person. Again, these are only valid until December 31 this year.
By comparison, theoutgoing model started at RM34,800 for the Standard M/T, rising up to RM38,300 for the Standard Lite A/T, RM38,800 for the Standard A/T, RM41,800 for the Premium A/T and RM44,800 for the Premium S A/T. We should point out, however, that Proton has discontinued both the Standard Lite and the manual transmission (rest in peace) with this new model, which at least partly explains the jump in starting price. The national carmaker also claims buyers of the new car get up to RM12,000 worth of extra kit.
How does this compare to the Bezza? Well, that car’s entirely automatic range is priced at RM36,580 for the 1.0 G, RM43,980 for the 1.3 X and RM49,980 for the 1.3 AV. Keep in mind that the base model offers only a 1.0 litre three-cylinder engine from theAxia, whereas the Saga comes as standard with a 1.5 litre mill.
Proton is promising customers fast basic servicing as well as a 24-hour turnaround for more involved servicing and repair. For instances in which repairs take more than three days, the company says it will provide a courtesy car and one free service. It also claims lower service costs than before, partly due to the elimination of the 1,000 km break-in service; maintenance intervals remain at 10,000 km.
A bunch of accessories are being offered for the new Saga, including security window tint at RM1,500, a dash cam at RM549, door visors at RM150, coil mats at RM130 and a boot tray at RM135. There are also noise-insulating panels for the bonnet (RM70) and all four doors (RM435).
Buyers can also purchase prepaid maintenance plans that cost RM1,834 for three years/60,000 km and RM2,994 for five years/100,000 km. These prices are slightly higher for the Premium (RM1,936 for three years, RM3,094 for five years), presumably due to the CVT.
Revised AMA platform set to spawn new Saga variants
As we discussed previously, the new Saga is effectively a heavy facelift of the third-generation model. Proton may market this car as the all-new, fourth-generation Saga, but the car is internally referred to as the Minor Change 3 (MC3) of the third-gen 2016 model, and you can even spot this tag on stickers on some of the components. In fact, you can trace the car’s lineage all the way back to the second-genBase Line Model (BLM) Saga from 2008 – itself derived from theSavvy hatchback from 2005.
Nevertheless, the Saga has received a substantial reengineering job to accept new technologies and safety equipment. The platform is now dubbed the Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA); it can be stretched or chopped to suit the car being developed (hence the “modular” in its name), and it also incorporates a brand-new electrical architecture. More on that later.
Additionally, the structure has been strengthened using hot-press-formed (HPF) steel B-pillars and floor cross member, along with an advanced-high-strength steel roof cross member and high-strength steel door bars. This has enabled the Saga to maintain itsfour-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, despite being tested on a protocol that is two generations newer (and stricter), on the final year of the 2021-2025 protocol. The changes have made the body so much stiffer that the new model is able to do away with the old car’s strut brace.
Handling, a key Proton strength, has been improved through a redesigned cross member and stiffer bushings on the rear subframe, as well as a new anti-roll bar, also with stiffer bushings. The new Saga also rides slightly higher than before to protect the new engine, which sits lower in the engine bay. Also upgraded is the power steering, going from hydraulic to electric assistance.
Proton claims that AMA is “flexible, scalable and future-ready” and is designed to meet international safety, performance and efficiency standards. It adds that it owns the full intellectual property rights for the platform, reinforcing its “growing engineering capability.”
The company is open to collaboration across the Geely Group, it says, “potentially positioning Malaysia as a regional engineering hub for future model development.” Again, this begs the question – could we see Proton-based Geely models instead of the other way around?
Since theinitial preview, it’s been rumoured that the Saga will spawnseveral new body style variants, including a hatchback, an MPV and even an SUV. To this writer, it’s more likely that Proton will create a Saga sub-brand for its range of indigenously-designed models to cash in on the sedan’s continued success, retaining the AMA platform and powertrain but being otherwise unrelated. We’ll see which idea prevails.
And speaking of the powertrain…
Goodbye CamPro, hello all-new 1.5 litre BHE15PFI four-cylinder
We’ve talked about this at length several times before, but we’ll say it again – the new Saga marks the demise of Proton’s long-serving, in-house-developed CamPro engine family. In its place sits an all-new, Geely-derived 1.5 litre BHE15 four-cylinder engine that we first saw in turbocharged form in thefacelifted X50, here in BHE15PFI guise with natural aspiration and port fuel injection.
The BHE15PFI was introduced on the plug-in hybridGeely Galaxy Starship 7/Starray EM-i/EX5 EM-i, which itself is set to becoming theProton eMas 7 PHEV, withcamouflaged test prototypes already roaming our roads. In pure petrol form, however – burdened with the need to drive the wheels alone, rather than being augmented with electrical power – it has been retuned for more power and torque.
This high-output BHE15-CFN tune is very new, having only been added to the Chinese market’sGeely Emgrand (known to you and me as theProton S70) this year to replace the direct-injected BHE15-AFD. This is presumably to cut down on carbon deposits and reduce maintenance – a key consideration for budget-friendly models like the Emgrand and Saga.
Benefitting from new technologies – and a sizeable increase in swept volume, up from the old 1.3 litre mill – the new Saga gets a big boost in outputs, now producing 120 PS at 6,100 rpm and 150 Nm of torque between 4,000 and 5,000 rpm. That’s 25 PS and 30 Nm up over the outgoing model, and a similar margin over its arch nemesis, the Bezza 1.3 (95 PS and 121 Nm). In fact, the new car damn near matches theHonda City‘s 1.5 litre i-VTEC engine in power (121 PS) and beats it in torque (145 Nm).
Proton claims the new engine not only delivers more power than before, but also reduces the Saga’s fuel consumption by up to 14.04%, thanks to it running on an Atkinson cycle – something usually reserved for hybrid vehicles. Further helping its cause is the fitment of dual variable valve timing (DVVT) and an electric water pump, while a dual-mass flywheel cuts vibration and noise, the latter by up to 25.24%.
Last but not least is news that will be music to the ears of those who frequent our comments. Yes, the Saga will finally come with a timing chain instead of a belt, reducing the maintenance needed. It’s also a toothed chain, cutting down on NVH versus a regular roller chain. Proton says the new engine has racked up a total of 9,000,000 km of global testing mileage and over 50,000 hours of dyno testing to ensure reliability.
Aisin 4A/T or Punch CVT, 4.9 litres per 100 km fuel consumption
Much has been made about the transmission choice for the Saga. Again, there’s no longer a manual version (still a shame, especially given the relatively strong engine outputs), and the Standard and Executive models use the same Aisin-sourced four-speed automatic as before.
The Premium, on the other hand, goes back in time to the Punch VT3+ clutch-based CVT – the very same one Protonditched in 2019 in favour of a slush ‘box. It will likely have been retuned for the application and incorporate learnings from the newerIriz and Persona to further optimise response and reliability.
Despite the stepless transmission’s reputation for being inefficient, it’s actually the Premium that saves the most fuel, with a combined consumption figure of 4.9 litres per 100 km on the Malaysian Driving Cycle (MDC) – achieving the aforementioned 14.04% improvement.
That compares well with the auto’s 5.1 litres per 100 km (10.53% lower than before) and even the Bezza 1.3’s 4.8 litres per 100 km (without Eco Idle start/stop, which most people turn off anyway) – despite the Saga offering significantly more power and torque. It should travel further on a tank, too, thanks to it having a larger 40 litre fuel tank versus the Perodua’s 36.
The choice to return to a CVT – and a Punch unit as well – is a bizarre choice, not just given Proton’s turbulent history with the transmission, but also Geely’s own drivetrain strategy. In China, the Emgrand uses a more modern CVT with a simulated eight-speed mode, while in other markets, the direct-injected mill (with similar outputs, let’s not forget) is paired with a six-speed automatic. Why not here, too?
Heavy facelift with all-new front end, LED lighting standard
By now you will have seen the new Saga from all angles – and made your mind up about that polarising front end. The massive grille, likely needed to cool the new engine and featuring pins said to be inspired bysongket embroidery, spans the entire front end and envelops the headlights. This leads to a face that appears to be about two sizes too big for this tiny car.
No matter what you think of this new design, however, you’ll have to admit that it is, at the very least, fairly modern. The now full-LED headlights feature rectangular projectors for low and high beam and a cascade of indicators – and just like the Bezza, these are standard across the range. As an added bonus, the projectors can be seen as an upgrade on the X50, X70 and X90, and of course the Bezza – all of which use reflectors.
What aren’t standard are the L-shaped LED daytime running lights that lead neatly to the chrome Ethereal Bow grille bar, which are only offered on the Executive and Premium; the Standard at least retains silver strips to maintain the look. With the deletion of the bumper-mounted DRLs, the air intakes now look fairly plain, made slimmer to fit the larger grille and finished entirely in black plastic.
The bonnet is also new, with a taller and wider central bulge for “an expression of power,” says Proton. This plus the myriad front fender changes have necessitated a mild re-profiling of the front fenders, with bonnet shutlines that drop down towards the front for a sleeker appearance. The wipers that come from the factory are now single-piece “aeroblade” units, replacing the old metal frames.
Along the side, one can clearly see that the cabin section and rear fenders are visually unchanged from the previous Saga. This is borne out by the dimensions, retaining the 2,465 mm wheelbase and width of 1,690 mm – although the new car is 55 mm longer at 4,390 mm. The height has also increased by 10 mm to 1,525 mm as a result of the raised suspension.
Eagle-eyed viewers will be able to spot the chrome strips on the door handles that aim to provide a classier look, as well as the gloss black “aerodynamic” door mirror caps from the Lotus Evora 400, featuring a protruding leading edge for greater shape. There’s also a new shark fin aerial that replaces the old bee-sting unit, oddly also finished in gloss black.
The Premium loses the bodykit and red accents that were offered on the old Premium S, but it does get side skirts (of a different design) that provide a fuller look versus the other variants. Also exclusive to the Premium is a matte black finish for the B-pillars.
The rear end sees another wholesale change, with LED taillights joined together by a central bar with the Proton script, providing a familial resemblance to the larger S70. Diagonal segments perform the main lighting function, joined by indicator strips at the top and the brake and reverse lamps at the bottom. Unfortunately, the third brake light continue to use a slower-reacting bulb, which isn’t good for safety.
On the Premium, these taillights are joined together by an illuminated strip, which also houses an external boot lid release. The other variants don’t have this luxury, which not only leads to a disjointed look but also means you’ll either have to press a key fob button or pull a lever on the inside to open the boot.
The “aero” boot lid itself rises slightly higher than before, negating the need for a separate lip spoiler as before. The rear bumper contains a simple diffuser-like black valance and dispenses with the old car’s slightly ostentatious fake corner vents. As for badging, the Saga script uses a more angular typeface that harks back to the original, and there’s also an “i-GT” badge to denote the new Intelligent Green Technology engine.
Colour options include the returning Ruby Red, Armour Silver and Snow White, plus two new ones – Marine Blue from the X90 and Space Grey from thepre-facelift X70. As for the wheels, the Standard model receive the same 14-inch silver alloys wheels as before, while the Executive and Premium gain new 15-inch “Arrow” eight-spoke rollers wrapped in 185/55 R15 Atlas AS380 tyres; the Premium adds a two-tone finish.
New interior, twin displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
A similarly comprehensive makeover has occurred on the inside, where you’ll find a new dashboard with a modern horizontal design, a beach-inspired wavy pattern on the decor, pill-shaped air vents said to be inspired bycongkak boards (and can now be closed) and returning fake stitching – all rendered in hard plastic, as is typical for this price range. Of course, your eyes will be drawn to the widescreen display panel that houses two screens, including a digital instrument display for the first time.
The seven-inch unit is fitted even to the base model and comes with two display options – a “traditional” theme with two (oddly unmarked) analogue dials for revs and speed, and “digital” with a minimised rev counter bar and an instant fuel consumption readout. Users can adjust various settings such as the overspeed warning and trip computer reset, all using the new flat-bottomed steering wheel from the X50.
On the left is a nine-inch infotainment touchscreen on the Executive and Premium models, running on on a simplified version of the Atlas operating system – still with a media player, Bluetooth connectivity and a “Hi Proton” voice control system. Despite being marketed to a wider audience, the Saga loses out on its sibling’s new Bahasa Malaysia option for the menus and voice control (despite the instrument display being available in BM), making do with just English.
Better news is the fact that wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be made available from launch, making the new Saga the first A-segment car to offer this feature. There’s no denying that this display setup has thoroughly modernised the car’s cabin, even if the large bezels necessitated by the relatively small and narrow screens are a touch unsightly. The Standard uses a conventional radio/Bluetooth player instead; its integration into the widescreen panel will likely make it more difficult to install aftermarket units.
The air-con controls are also new, continuing to feature two dials for adjusting the temperature and fan speed. Once again, there are no directional controls, so no airflow for the feet or the windscreen – an odd omission in this day and age. In the middle are two rows of buttons that streamline the functions of the old car’s upper and lower button rows, although the lower row is conspicuously all blank.
Lower down, the centre console is still narrow but now houses a new gearlever (now made more upmarket with a stitched boot) and cupholders arranged diagonally, enabling them to fit larger cups while still squeezing into the same cramped space. There’s still no armrest, of course, and the redesign does mean that the sole USB-A front port has had to be relocated to an awkward spot by the driver’s left knee – although that’s less of a problem now that there’s wireless smartphone mirroring.
The Premium’s front seats (left) versus the Executive Elsewhere, the door panels are also new and repeat the dashboard’s wavy texture, although the door handles are carried over (and are hopefully more durable than those on Proton’s first wave of Geely-derived products). The seats remains identical, but the upholstery changes depending on the grade – standard fabric on the, um, Standard, wavy fabric on the Executive and black and grey faux leather on the Premium.
There’s another small but significant change on the Premium – the driver’s seat now adjusts by height using a more ergonomic ratchet lever, rather than the old car’s twist knob. It also moves the full seat instead of just the seat cushion.
Combined with the new Saga’s higher-mounted (still only tilt-adjustable) steering wheel, this makes for a much more comfortable driving experience. The other models weirdly still use the knob adjuster, which is sub-optimal. Front occupants still sit very high up relative to the rest of the car, as there is a cross member on the floor that prevents the seats from being mounted lower.
Moving to the rear, passengers there continue to receive twin USB-A ports at the back of the centre console, along with a storage compartment said to be big enough to house an iPhone 16 Pro Max. The headrests are fixed on the Standard as before, but the Executive and Premium gain adjustable units to improve comfort and safety; the centre occupant still does without any kind of headrest.
There are also no rear air vents or armrest, and the bench still folds in one piece. Proton touts wider seats (+1 cm at the front, +6 cm at the rear) with longer bases (+4 cm front, +1 cm rear) over the Saga’s “direct competitor”, which we take to mean the Bezza. One more thing – the fitment of curtain airbags on the Premium means that the headliner is thicker on the sides, impinging on headroom.
The boot remains a decent 420 litres (albeit much smaller than the Bezza’s 508 litres, and that car has 60:40 split-folding rear seats), and there’s still a space-saver spare tyre. The boot lid features a noise-reducing “NVH Guard” that used to be part of a RM545 Comfort Package but is now fitted as standard across the range. However, the insulators for the bonnet and doors that also were part of the package are not included.
Six airbags and ADAS now on, but only on Premium
Safety is another area where the Saga has taken a massive leap forward. The new electrical architecture has enabled the fitment of six airbags and numerous advanced driver assistance systems, the latter finally bringing it on par with the Bezza. These include autonomous emergency braking and front departure alert, along with features that are not offered on its rival, such as lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, rear collision warning, a door opening warning and automatic high beam.
The company is particularly proud of its AEB system, which can detect motorcycles and either prevent or mitigate collisions with them. Despite being tested on the 2021-2025 protocol, the Saga is claimed to be the first Malaysian car to pass ASEAN NCAP’s new AEB test for motorcycle detection, which will only be used officially starting with the forthcoming 2026-2030 protocol.
As expected for the price, these features are only fitted to the top-of-the-range Premium. Standard and Executive models receive only two airbags and no ADAS features, although ABS and stability control are thankfully offered across the range.
With the launch comes the full ASEAN NCAP crash test report. The new Saga scored 23.72 points of of 32 for adult occupant protection (AOP), 38.17 points out of 51 for child occupant protection (COP), 14 points out of 21 for safety assist features and seven points out of 16 for motorcycle safety features.
The agency found that the car provided only marginal protection for the driver’s chest for both offset frontal impact and side impact (the car was tested in Standard trim, without side and curtain airbags), which will have undoubtedly dragged the score down. The AOP score contributes 40% to the overall score, and with a weighted overall percentage score of 66.70%, the Saga’s performance was firmly in the four-star bracket.
Standard versus Executive versus Premium
Proton Saga 1.5 Executive A/T All models have seen a significant spec bump – aside from all the new bits we’ve detailed earlier, including LED head- and taillights and a digital instrument display, the Standard also gains a push-button starter. Keyless entry is not included, however, so you’ll still have to thumb the key fob to unlock the doors, then put it back in your pocket to start the car. This is similar to older entry-level BMWs without Comfort Access (or, if you remember, thePrevé andSuprima, albeit without a key slot). There are also just two speakers.
To get keyless entry, you’ll have to stump up for the Executive, which also adds the infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four speakers, bigger wheels and LED DRLs. For the full experience, however, the Premium is the place to be, with all the safety kit, faux leather trim, external boot lid release and auto-folding mirrors. There are even a few things reserved for the top spec that you’d think would be standard on all cars today, such as an auto-down driver’s-side window (no auto up, I’m afraid).
Click to enlarge The full variant breakdown is as follows:
2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Standard – RM37,990
Gets as standard:Mechanicals
- 1.5 litre DOHC i-GT PFI engine
- 1,499 cc naturally-aspirated dual-VVT four-cylinder petrol
- 120 PS at 6,100 rpm, 150 Nm of torque at 4,000-5,000 rpm
- Aisin four-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- MacPherson strut suspension (front), torsion beam (rear)
- Electric power steering
- Ventilated disc brakes (front), drums (rear)
- 5.1 litres per 100 km combined fuel consumption (MDC)
Exterior
- LED projector headlights
- Chrome Ethereal Bow grille bar
- LED taillights
- Chrome door handle strips
- 14-inch silver alloy wheels with 185/60 R14 tyres
Interior
- Push-button start
- Black interior
- Grey headliner
- Manual air conditioning
- Manual seats
- Driver’s side seat base height adjuster
- Fabric upholstery
- Urethane multi-function steering wheel with tilt adjustment
- 7-inch digital instrument display
- Bluetooth/MP3/radio head unit
- One front USB port (USB-A)
- 2 speakers
- Folding rear bench
- 420 litres boot space
Safety
- Two airbags
- ABS with EBD and brake assist
- Traction control and stability control
- Hill start assist
- Rear seat reminder
- Rear parking sensors
2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Executive – RM43,990
Adds on:Exterior
- Automatic headlights with follow-me-home function
- LED daytime running lights
- 15-inch silver alloy wheels with 185/55 R15 tyres
Interior
- Keyless entry
- Discrete height-adjustable rear headrests
- Textured fabric upholstery
- 9-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- “Hi Proton” voice control
- Two rear USB ports (USB-A)
- 4 speakers
Safety
- Reverse camera
- Front parking sensors
2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium – RM48,990
Adds on:Mechanicals
- Punch Powertrain continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- 4.9 litres per 100 km combined fuel consumption (MDC)
Exterior
- Full-width LED taillights
- 15-inch two-tone alloy wheels
- Side skirts
- Black B-pillar trim
- External boot release button
Interior
- Black and dark grey interior
- Driver’s side full-seat height adjuster
- Faux leather upholstery and steering wheel wrap
- Driver’s side auto-down window
- Auto-folding door mirrors
Safety
- Six airbags (front, side, curtain)
- Autonomous emergency braking with motorcycle detection
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot monitoring
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Rear collision warning
- Door opening warning
- Automatic high beam
The Saga is the first in the nameplate’s four-decade history not to be built in Shah Alam, production having been moved to Tanjung Malim since October. The engine is also built there at an adjacent facility, which previously made the GEP3 three-cylinder mills. Want to know how the car drives? Read ourbrief first drive impressions here.
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT MC3
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Executive A/T MC3
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Executive
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT MC3 in Ruby Red
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT MC3 in Marine Blue
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT MC3 in Space Grey
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT MC3 in Armour Silver
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga 1.5 Premium CVT MC3 in Snow White
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga MC3 official launch photos
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga MC3 official photos
- Space environment, ready for comp of your characters.3d rendering
GALLERY: 2026 Proton Saga MC3 brochure2,916 summonses issued to foreign drivers for failing to register for mandatory VEP, says transport ministry
InLocal News /byGerard Lye/
According to transport minister Anthony Loke, a total of 2,916 summonses has been issued to foreign vehicles entering Malaysia since enforcement of the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) system at the Malaysia-Singapore borderstarted in July this year.
Loke noted that enforcement outside the Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) and the Sultan Abu Bakar Complex (KSAB) targets foreign vehicles that fail to register for the mandatory VEP. “As of September 21, the road transport department (JPJ) has issued 2,916 summonses to foreign vehicles that did not register under the VEP system,” he said in a written parliamentary reply on Wednesday (November 26, 2025).
He added that routine inspections were conducted on foreign vehicles entering and leaving the country, particularly at major entry points in Johor and Perlis, with support from the police and customs department.
Through the VEP system, authorities are able to check outstanding fines or offences linked to each foreign vehicle at the point of entry or exit. “This enables more efficient and effective enforcement while reducing the risk of motorists evading legal responsibility,” Loke said.
Vehicles with outstanding fines are required to settle them immediately before they are allowed to leave Malaysia, and under Section 63 of the Road Transport Act 1987, JPJ officers are empowered to detain vehicles with unpaid summonses or order them to turn back until the fines are paid.
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Eyeing a Porsche Taycan? Here’s why it’s better to buy an official unit rather than a recon or grey import car
Fifty years of the BMW 3 Series – sports sedan icon’s family gathering featuring E21, E30, E36, E46, E90, F30
Car Reviews
2025 Honda HR-V facelift review in Malaysia – are the minor changes enough to keep its many rivals at bay?
2025 BMW M5 review – G90, RM1.2 million, PHEV, 727 PS/1,000 Nm, nearly 2.5 tonnes but can it still thrill?
BYD Atto 2 review – best affordable EV in Malaysia?
2025 G60 BMW 530i M Sport review in Malaysia – RM400k; is it a better car than the W214 E-Class?
2025 Denza D9 EV MPV review in Malaysia – RM259k-309k, should the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire be worried?
2025 Porsche 911 facelift sampled in Chiang Mai – new GTS with hybrid tech, a step in the right direction?
2025 Volvo EX90 review in Malaysia – everything good and bad about the flagship electric SUV, on video
2025 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe review – first 2GC did better than expected; easy win for second-gen F74?