<div class="container" style="display: flex;"><amp-img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/2376/3855765/dayone-visual-2500px-w768xh384-cutout-full.jpg" width="1100px" height="550px" layout="responsive" style="width: 100%"></amp-img></div> Mercedes-Benz AG announces their new Chief Strategy Officer, Paul Gao effective immediately on July 1, 2022. In his previous working history, Paul Gao was a Senior Partner at McKinsey and Company in Hong Kong having Chinese and global industry as clients. According to chief executive of Mercedes-Benz AG Ola Kallenius, he stated that Paul is an excellent addition to the team and a proven strategist with exceptional analytical skills who had 30 years of in automotive industry. Also, the newly appointed Chief Strategy Officer know all the importation information about China and other Asian growth market. <div> </div>

<link rel="preconnect" href="https://fonts.googleapis.com">
<link rel="preconnect" href="https://fonts.gstatic.com" crossorigin="">
<link href="https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Poppins:ital,wght@0,300;0,400;0,500;0,600;0,700;1,400&amp;display=swap" rel="stylesheet">

<div style="font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; color: #333; line-height: 1.6; width: 100%; box-sizing: border-box;">

 <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/22514/17314663/thumb-vw-group-crisis.png" style="width: 100%; display: block; height: auto;" data-media-id="17314663" alt="thumb-vw-group-crisis.png"> 

 If you’re a fan of iconic German engineering, you might want to sit down for this. Volkswagen, the giant that’s been a household name for generations, is facing what many analysts are calling its biggest crisis in decades. Behind closed doors, the company is planning a massive overhaul that could see up to 100,000 jobs cut worldwide.

 Here is the breakdown of why one of the world’s biggest automakers is making these drastic moves and what it means for the future of your favourite cars.

 <div style="background-color: #fdfbf7; padding: 20px; border-left: 5px solid #d9534f; margin: 25px 0; font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; color: #333; line-height: 1.6;">
 <h3 style="font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; margin-top: 0; margin-bottom: 8px; color: #d9534f; font-size: 1.2rem; text-transform: uppercase; font-weight: 700;">THE CRITICAL COST GAP</h3>
 
 Why is this happening? The situation is a "triple bind" of global pressure. VW’s CEO, Oliver Blume, recently flagged in an internal memo that the company’s manufacturing overhead costs are roughly 20% higher than its primary rivals. Because personnel costs make up half of those overheads, closing that gap requires massive structural reductions.
 
 </div>

 The main headaches driving this cost crisis include:
 <ul style="font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; padding-left: 20px;">
 <li style="margin-bottom: 8px;">Stiff Competition: Chinese carmakers like BYD and Geely are aggressively eating into VW's market share, especially in China, once the brand's most reliable profit engine.</li>
 <li style="margin-bottom: 8px;">Economic Headwinds: High tariffs, sluggish global demand, and the massive costs of shifting to electric vehicles (EVs) are eating into the company’s bottom line.</li>
 <li style="margin-bottom: 8px;">Efficiency Issues: VW’s German manufacturing core is struggling with high operational costs and excess capacity.</li>
 </ul>

 <h2 style="font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; font-weight: 700; font-size: 1.5rem; margin-top: 30px; margin-bottom: 15px; color: #1a1a1a;">The "100,000" Figure: What’s at Risk?</h2>

 While the company hasn't officially confirmed the final layoff count, the 100,000 figure surfaced in an internal memo. This proposal reportedly includes the potential closure of four major German plants: Emden, Hanover, Zwickau, and Audi’s Neckarsulm site.

 Unions and worker representatives are already pushing back hard, staging protests at 18 sites across Germany, calling the restructuring "a wake-up call" for the entire European automotive industry.

 <div style="background-color: #f4f6f8; padding: 20px; border-left: 5px solid #0056b3; margin: 25px 0; font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; color: #333; line-height: 1.6;">
 <h3 style="font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; margin-top: 0; margin-bottom: 8px; color: #0056b3; font-size: 1.2rem; text-transform: uppercase; font-weight: 700;">SIMPLIFYING THE LINE-UP</h3>
 
 Which models are on the chopping block? As part of the plan to simplify the business, VW is looking to cut its global model line-up by up to half. While the company hasn't released an official "hit list," reports suggest several iconic nameplates could be discontinued to drastically reduce complexity:
 
 <ul style="font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; margin: 0; padding-left: 20px;">
 <li style="margin-bottom: 6px;">Volkswagen: Models like <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/cars/volkswagen/volkswagen-touareg" target="_blank" style="color: #0056b3; text-decoration: underline; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Touareg</a>, Touran, Jetta, and Taos are rumoured to be candidates for the axe.</li>
 <li style="margin-bottom: 6px;">Porsche: Enthusiasts might be heartbroken to hear that the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/cars/porsche/porsche-taycan" target="_blank" style="color: #0056b3; text-decoration: underline; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Taycan</a> sedan and future gas-powered <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/cars/porsche/porsche-718-cayman" target="_blank" style="color: #0056b3; text-decoration: underline; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">718</a> Boxster and Cayman models may not get replacements.</li>
 <li style="margin-bottom: 0;">Audi: Several models, including A1, Q2, TT, R8, and the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/cars/audi/audi-q8-e-tron" target="_blank" style="color: #0056b3; text-decoration: underline; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Q8 e-tron</a>., are also reportedly being considered for discontinuation.</li>
 </ul>
 </div>

 <h2 style="font-family: 'Poppins', sans-serif; font-weight: 700; font-size: 1.5rem; margin-top: 30px; margin-bottom: 15px; color: #1a1a1a;">TL;DR: Is this the end of an era?</h2>

 VW is trying to become "more efficient, robust, and simpler" to survive the current market climate. Whether they actually go through with all 100,000 cuts remains a subject of intense negotiation. Analysts suggest that management might be using these high figures as a negotiating tactic to pressure unions into agreeing to necessary changes.

 What’s your take? Do you think VW can reclaim its glory, or is this the start of a permanent shift in the automotive world?&nbsp;
 
 Source: <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.motor1.com/news/801413/vw-group-discontinue-10-cars-report/" target="_blank" style="color: #0056b3; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;">Motor1</a>

</div>

100,000 jobs at risk as Volkswagen plans its biggest crisis overhaul. Find out why VW is axing 50% of its Audi, Porsche, and VW model lineup.

VW in Crisis: 100,000 Jobs at Risk, Half Its Models Face the Axe [Explained]

<p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/22249/17257278/Ferrari-Luce-EV-6.jpg" data-media-id="17257278" alt="Ferrari-Luce-EV-6.jpg" style="box-sizing: inherit; max-width: 100%; color: rgb(30, 36, 47); font-family: Roboto, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0.15px; width: 100%;"><p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">The internet has been tearing the new <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2026/05/please-dont-buy-this-car-why-ferrari-is-telling-its-hardcore-fans-to-stay-away-from-luce-ev" target="_blank">Ferrari Luce</a> apart since the day it was unveiled.<p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">Design purists have called it everything from "a glorified smartphone" to "the most boring Ferrari ever built." When Ferrari’s stock price dipped 6% following the launch, many analysts were ready to write the Luce off as a <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2026/06/ferraris-16-year-marketing-chief-stepped-downbut-was-it-really-his-choice" target="_blank">massive misstep by the Italian legend</a>.<p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">But while the rest of the world was busy posting memes about Jony Ive’s minimalist design, 88 people in Shanghai had a very different reaction: They bought every single unit available.<p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <h2 style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">The "Ugly" Ferrari That Won China</h2><p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/22410/17292891/Enrico-Galliera.png" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="17292891" alt="Enrico-Galliera.png"> <h6 style="text-align: center; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;">Ferrari’s "Dr. No"—long-time marketing chief Enrico Galliera, has officially stepped down as the brand grapples with the Luce EV backlash. (Photo: Harold Cunningham/AFP via Getty Images)</h6><p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">Despite the global backlash, the Ferrari Luce, the brand’s first all-electric, four-door GT sedan, sold out its entire Chinese allocation almost instantly.<p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">At a retail price of 3.988 million yuan (~RM2.4 million), the Luce isn't just a car; it's a massive status symbol. In a country where owning a Ferrari is the ultimate "I’ve made it" statement, the Luce proves that for the ultra-wealthy, the badge will always outweigh the design sketches.<p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">But why the rush to buy a car that the internet currently loves to hate?<p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">Read:&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2026/05/please-dont-buy-this-car-why-ferrari-is-telling-its-hardcore-fans-to-stay-away-from-luce-ev" target="_blank">"Please Don’t Buy This Car" — Why Ferrari Is Telling Its Hardcore Fans To Stay Away From Luce EV</a><p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <h2 style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">Is It Just The "Ong"?</h2><p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/22249/17257277/Ferrari-Luce-EV-13.png" data-media-id="17257277" alt="Ferrari-Luce-EV-13.png" style="width: 100%;"> <p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">There’s a theory making waves in the industry: Ferrari’s marketing genius.<p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">Ferrari didn't just dump a random number of cars into the market. They specifically allocated 88 units for China. In Chinese culture, the number 8 is synonymous with wealth, luck, and prosperity. By carefully curating the scarcity and tapping into local superstition, Ferrari essentially turned a "controversial" car into a "lucky charm" that the 1% couldn't afford to pass up.<p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <h2 style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">The "Loyalty Test"?</h2><p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">Of course, there’s a darker side to the story. Rumors have been circulating that Ferrari is using the Luce as a "loyalty test", a mandatory "entry fee" for collectors who want to secure a spot in line for the brand's next limited-edition hypercar.<p class="p2" style="text-align: justify; margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 15px;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">Ferrari’s Chief Marketing Officer has officially slammed these rumors as "unpleasant and completely false," but the speculation persists. After all, if you’re a billionaire who wants the next big thing, what’s another RM2.4 million to ensure you’re on the "VIP List"?<p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;"> <p class="p1" style="margin: 0px; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-alternates: normal; font-variant-position: normal; font-variant-emoji: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-language-override: normal; font-kerning: auto; font-optical-sizing: auto; font-feature-settings: normal; font-variation-settings: normal; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;">Read:&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2026/06/ferraris-16-year-marketing-chief-stepped-downbut-was-it-really-his-choice" target="_blank">Ferrari’s 16-Year Marketing Chief Stepped Down—But Was It Really His Choice?</a>

The world called it 'ugly,' but China’s elites snapped up every Ferrari Luce in seconds. Discover the truth behind the 'hated' EV and the number 88 mystery.

Ferrari Sold Out Its 'Hated' Luce EV in China—But Was It All Thanks to the Number 88?

Chery's new LEPAS brand debuts at Auto China 2026! Discover the L6 & L4 EVs featuring "Leopard Aesthetics," a Super AI Agent, and valet parking tech.

Tech Meets Elegance: LEPAS Just Dropped L6 & L4 Globally, Coming To Malaysia Soon?

10,000 orders in just 29 minutes?! We dig into why the world's fastest hybrid SUV, the Zeekr 8X, is causing a total frenzy.

How Did Zeekr 8X Get 10,000 Orders In 30 Minutes? Here Are The "Mindblowing" Reasons

Geely consolidates in Thailand with a new assembly plant and the "One Geely" strategy. Is the RM32b AHTV enough to keep Proton as the RHD hub for ASEAN?

Geely’s Thai Assembly Move: The Final Nail in the Proton Export Coffin?

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21681/16889788/Caricarz-TA-GWM-Ora-GoodCat-GT-8-full.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16889788" alt="Caricarz-TA-GWM-Ora-GoodCat-GT-8-full.jpg">


Great Wall Motor (GWM) chairman Wei Jianjun has acknowledged that <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/05/review-gwm-tank-300-driven-a-game-changer" target="_blank" style="">Chinese automakers still face a very large gap compared to established global manufacturers, despite rapid industry growth and rising exports.</a>
Speaking during a recent annual meeting in early February, Wei cautioned that Chinese brands, including GWM, should not overestimate their competitiveness as the country’s automotive industry expands in scale in 2026.He said <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2026/02/gwm-wey-g9-receives-800-bookings-within-first-week-of-launch" target="_blank" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; white-space-collapse: preserve;">manufacturers from Germany, Japan, South Korea, and the United States continue to hold advantages in manufacturing experience and technical depth</a>. Chinese companies, he stressed, must continue learning from these regions and conduct internal reviews to address weaknesses.

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21681/16889789/Caricarz-MBA-GWM-Tank300-Ext-13-full.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16889789" alt="Caricarz-MBA-GWM-Tank300-Ext-13-full.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21681/16889790/Caricarz-MBA-GWM-Tank300-Ext-21-full.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16889790" alt="Caricarz-MBA-GWM-Tank300-Ext-21-full.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21681/16889791/Caricarz-MBA-GWM-Tank300-Ext-27-full.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16889791" alt="Caricarz-MBA-GWM-Tank300-Ext-27-full.jpg"> 

Wei also referenced Toyota as an example of how major automakers manage product quality issues. While Toyota frequently carries out recalls, it maintains customer trust by addressing problems transparently and communicating clearly with users.On the domestic front, Wei warned that aggressive price competition in China, including heavy discounting, could create long-term risks if not supported by sustainable operations and strong product quality. Short-term sales gains, he suggested, should not come at the expense of brand strength.He added that although Chinese vehicle exports have surged in recent years, overseas strategies still rely heavily on price competitiveness. Depending mainly on lower pricing, he said, could limit brand development and long-term positioning in global markets.<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2026/01/launched-2026-gwm-wey-g9-hi4-phev-ckd-rm269800" target="_blank">Great Wall Motor reported global sales of 1.3237 million vehicles in 2025, including 403,700 new energy vehicles (NEVs) and 506,100 overseas deliveries</a>. The company posted annual revenue of 222.79 billion yuan (USD 30.77 billion) and net profit of 9.912 billion yuan (USD 1.37 billion), based on figures released in early 2026.

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21681/16889792/web_MA_SN_CariCarz_GWM-Wy-G9-Hi4-PHEV-launch_-3-full.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16889792" alt="web_MA_SN_CariCarz_GWM-Wy-G9-Hi4-PHEV-launch_-3-full.jpg"> 

NEVs accounted for about 30% of GWM’s total deliveries, with the majority of sales still coming from petrol-powered and hybrid models. This differs from competitors such as BYD, which has shifted fully to new energy vehicle production and no longer sells pure internal combustion engine vehicles.As Chinese automakers continue expanding production and exports this year, Wei emphasised the need to prioritise product quality, technology development, and long-term competitiveness over rapid scale alone.

GWM’s chairman says Chinese automakers must focus on quality and long-term competitiveness despite rising exports and sales growth.

Chinese Carmakers Still Lag Global Leaders - GWM Chairman

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888952/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-4-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16888952" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-4.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">The all-new Audi RS5 breaks cover as the brand's first high-performance plug-in hybrid model with up to 630 hp.</h6><a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/audi-r26-concept-previews-marques-2026-formula-1-contender" target="_blank">Audi</a> has followed in the footsteps of fellow German rivals by succumbing to the electrification bandwagon, as it revealed its first high-performance plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model, the all-new 2026 Audi RS5. This latest creation of Audi Sport arrives in both sedan and Avant wagon forms, where it now becomes the direct replacement for both the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2022/10/2023-audi-rs4-avant-rs5-now-with-new-competition-packages" target="_blank">previous-gen RS4 Avant and RS5 saloon</a>.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888953/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-2-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888953" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-2.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888954/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-3-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888954" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-3.jpg"> Being Audi Sports’ first-ever high-performance PHEV model, the new RS5 adopts the same 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 heart from its predecessor, which is capable of producing 503 hp and 600 Nm by itself. Audi, however, thinks that is not enough for the new model, so it adds a 174 hp-rated electric motor into its eight-speed automatic gearbox for a combined output of 630 hp and 825 Nm.This makes the new RS5 157 hp more powerful than the already potent BMW M3 Competition xDrive, with Audi claiming a quick century sprint time of just 3.6 seconds and a limited V-max of 285 km/h for this electrified behemoth.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888956/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-3-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888956" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-3.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888955/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-14-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888955" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-14.jpg"> Juicing the electric motor is a sizable 22 kWh battery pack that Audi claims is good for up to 80 km of pure electric range. As with any other PHEVs out there, you can charge up the pack using the engine itself or plug it in to an 11 kW AC charger, although no DC charging abilities were mentioned.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888960/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-27-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888960" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-27.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888962/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-14-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888962" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-14.jpg">Beyond the new V6 PHEV setup, the new RS5 also benefits from tons of mechanical upgrades, including a new version of Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system that now integrates a central differential. There’s also the new Dynamic Torque Control, which is essentially an electromechanical torque vectoring system at the rear axle that can shuffle torque between the rear wheels in milliseconds.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888963/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-1-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16888963" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-1.jpg" style="width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888964/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-1-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888964" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-1.jpg"> Not to forget, there’s also the new RS Torque Rear mode, which is Audi’s lingo for a ‘drift mode’ for this electrified behemoth, while stopping power is provided by 420 mm front and 400 mm rear steel disc brakes, which can be upgraded to optional RS carbon ceramic brakes that weigh 30 kg less despite featuring bigger diameters of 440 mm at the front and 410 mm at the rear.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888965/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-5-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888965" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-5.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888966/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-5-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888966" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-5.jpg"> Speaking of weight, the new RS5 is certainly not a lightweight car, thanks to both its new electrified powertrain and all the mechanical complications it carries. Audi says the sedan model tips the scale at 2,355 kg with a driver, while the Avant wagon version adds another 15 kg for a total of 2,370 kg, thus bringing them closer to the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/06/launched-g90-bmw-m5-from-rm1188800" target="_blank">G90 BMW M5</a>’s weight territory.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888968/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-10-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888968" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-10.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888967/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-17-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888967" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-17.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888991/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-9-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888991" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-9.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888992/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-15-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888992" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-15.jpg"> In terms of design, both the RS5 sedan and Avant are based on the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/07/third-gen-audi-a5-bows-in-as-the-a4-replacement" target="_blank">third-gen Audi A5</a>, which saw the Ingolstadt-based marque combining both the A4 and A5 into a single nameplate.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888969/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-13-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888969" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-13.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888988/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-18-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888988" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-18.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888989/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-6-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888989" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-6.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888990/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-16-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888990" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-16.jpg"> As with any other RS models, the new RS5 ups the ante over its standard twin with the addition of a sportier RS bodykit with a large honeycomb front grille, special chequered flag lighting signatures, a large rear diffuser with vertical fins, an RS sport exhaust system with dual oval exhaust tips finished in a dark matte hue, 21-inch two-tone diamond-cut phantom black wheels with matte accents, bronze-hued RS brake callipers, and many more.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888993/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-22-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888993" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-22.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888996/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-24-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888996" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-24.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888994/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-25-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888994" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-25.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888995/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-21-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888995" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-21.jpg"> Inside, the new RS5 gets the same triple-screen setup seen on its non-RS siblings, plus several additional RS-specific parts around the car. This includes the RS sports steering wheel, the RS sport seats with honeycomb quilting and ventilation function, dark metallic vanadium trims, and many more. And just like any other Audi RS model, customers can select from an array of interior customisation options, ranging from the upholstery colour to trim materials and more.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888998/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-28-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888998" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Avant-PHEV-28.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16888999/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-29-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888999" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-Sedan-PHEV-29.jpg"> European buyers can already place a booking for their new 2026 Audi RS5, with deliveries expected to commence later in summer this year. The new models will be built at Audi’s Neckarsulm plant in Germany, with no pricing details unveiled for now.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21674/16889000/conversions/2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-5-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16889000" alt="2026-Audi-RS5-PHEV-5.jpg">

The all-new Audi RS5 breaks cover as the brand's first high-performance plug-in hybrid model with up to 630 hp.

2026 Audi RS5 Unveiled as Brand’s First High-Performance PHEV

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888706/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-9-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16888706" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-9.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">Toyota has completed the sixth-gen RAV4 lineup in Japan by debuting the PHEV version along with the GR Sport variant.</h6>It has been months since the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/05/sixth-gen-toyota-rav4-bows-includes-new-phev-and-gr-sport-guises" target="_blank">sixth-gen Toyota RAV4</a> made its debut in the US, and <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2026/02/2027-toyota-highlander-ev-debuts-in-the-us-three-row-ev-suv-with-515-km-range" target="_blank">Toyota</a> has finally completed this model’s lineup in Japan with the introduction of the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant in its native market. The new RAV4 PHEV only comes in two variants in Japan, including a souped-up GR Sport trim that adds sporty additional features to this popular SUV.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888721/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-6-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888721" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-6.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888738/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-31-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888738" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-31.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV Z Trim</h6>We’ll start with the non-GR Sport Z trim of the JDM-spec RAV4 PHEV, where no significant differences can be seen compared to the global model. It features several gloss black accents to help it differentiate from the standard hybrid (HEV) version, while retaining key design cues such as the hammerhead front face with C-shaped LED headlights, slim LED taillights, black alloy wheels with a dual five-spoke design, and more.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888739/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-4-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888739" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-4.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888740/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-33-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888740" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-33.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888741/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-22-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 25%;" data-media-id="16888741" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-22.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888745/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-20-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16888745" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-20.jpg" style="width: 25%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888746/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-18-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 25%;" data-media-id="16888746" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-18.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888747/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-21-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 25%;" data-media-id="16888747" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-21.jpg"> The GR Sport version, on the other hand, ups the ante with tons of GR-branded parts, including a more aggressive bodykit with a bigger front grille, GR-specific alloy wheels with a two-tone finish, red-hued GR Sport brake callipers, and a more prominent rear spoiler.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888762/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-29-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888762" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-29.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888763/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-27-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888763" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-27.jpg"> Beyond those cosmetic bits, the GR Sport treatment also adds some minor mechanical upgrades for the RAV PHEV, coming in the form of performance dampers, additional bracings, and sharper tuning for both the suspension and the electric power steering (EPS).<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888764/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-32-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16888764" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-32.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888765/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-13-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16888765" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-13.jpg" style="width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888766/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-11-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888766" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-11.jpg"> Inside, both the JDM-spec RAV4 PHEV variants share the same standard equipment as their overseas twins, and this includes the 12.9-inch central infotainment screen that runs Toyota’s Arene software platform, joined by a smaller 12.3-inch digital metre cluster with a coloured head-up display.Other key amenities primed here include the “Electro Shiftmatic” shifter, wireless charging, a hands-free tailgate, heated and ventilated seats, an optional panoramic moonroof, and many more.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888769/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-34-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888769" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-34.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888767/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-5-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888767" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-5.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888768/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-25-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888768" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-25.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888770/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-28-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888770" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-28.jpg"> Typically, the GR Sport version gets some additional GR-branded bits, such as the GR Sport steering wheel, GR embossing on the front seats, contrasting red piping on the black leather upholstery for all seats, sporty metal pedals, GR-branded door sill plates, and a GR-badged key fob, to name a few.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888775/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-12-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888775" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-12.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888776/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-8-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888776" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-8.jpg"> Beneath the hood, both the JDM RAV4 PHEV Z and GR Sport share the same powertrain setup as the overseas-spec models, featuring a 2.5-litre 4-cyl petrol engine that is mated to two electric motors and a sizable 22.7-kWh battery pack. And just like the US-spec version, the combined output for the JDM RAV4 PHEV is rated at 324 hp (242 kW), and drive is sent to all four wheels (AWD) via an e-CVT gearbox.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888784/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-1-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16888784" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-1.jpg"> Toyota Japan claims this setup is good enough to provide up to 150 km of pure electric range under the WLTC cycle, thus putting it ahead of both its European and American siblings at 100 km (WLTP) and 84 km (EPA), respectively. Of course, the differences lie in the testing protocols rather than the hardware, as all RAV4 PHEV variants share the same powertrain setup.On top of that, the Japan-spec RAV4 PHEV also comes standard with Toyota’s own “Power Supply Time Priority Mode," which coordinates the battery and combustion engine to provide electricity to your home for up to seven days at a constant 400-watt load.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888812/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-14-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16888812" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-14.jpg" style="width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888813/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-15-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16888813" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-15.jpg"> Additionally, the RAV4 PHEV can also power up your devices from an internal socket located in the luggage area, and if equipped with a power connector that plugs into the charging port, it can provide up to 1,500 watts of electricity via a 100-volt external socket.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888814/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-2-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16888814" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-2.jpg"> The all-new, sixth-gen Toyota RAV4 PHEV is now available for booking in Japan, with prices starting at JPY 6 million (RM151,312) for the Z trim and JPY 6.3 million (RM158,877) for the sportier GR Sport variant.As of now, it remains to be seen whether the sixth-gen RAV4 will ever make its way into our market, given that the previous-gen model received a rather lukewarm reception due to the premium asking price put by <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2026/02/umw-toyota-records-slower-january-sales-down-12-to-4700-units" target="_blank">UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT)</a> for a fully-imported (CBU) version.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21673/16888815/conversions/2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-10-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16888815" alt="2026-Toyota-RAV4-Japan-10.jpg">

Toyota has completed the sixth-gen RAV4 lineup in Japan by debuting the PHEV version along with the GR Sport variant.

Mercedes-Benz AG Announces Paul Gao as Chief Strategy Officer

Share This Article

Latest News

VW in Crisis: 100,000 Jobs at Risk, Half Its Models Face the Axe [Explained]

100,000 jobs at risk as Volkswagen plans its biggest crisis overhaul. Find out why VW is axing 50% of its Audi, Porsche, and VW model lineup.

Sofea Najmi

15-07-2026

Ferrari Sold Out Its 'Hated' Luce EV in China—But Was It All Thanks to the Number 88?

The world called it 'ugly,' but China’s elites snapped up every Ferrari Luce in seconds. Discover the truth behind the 'hated' EV and the number 88 mystery.

Sofea Najmi

29-06-2026

Tech Meets Elegance: LEPAS Just Dropped L6 & L4 Globally, Coming To Malaysia Soon?

Chery's new LEPAS brand debuts at Auto China 2026! Discover the L6 & L4 EVs featuring "Leopard Aesthetics," a Super AI Agent, and valet parking tech.

Sofea Najmi

28-04-2026

How Did Zeekr 8X Get 10,000 Orders In 30 Minutes? Here Are The "Mindblowing" Reasons

10,000 orders in just 29 minutes?! We dig into why the world's fastest hybrid SUV, the Zeekr 8X, is causing a total frenzy.

Sofea Najmi

21-04-2026

Geely’s Thai Assembly Move: The Final Nail in the Proton Export Coffin?

Geely consolidates in Thailand with a new assembly plant and the "One Geely" strategy. Is the RM32b AHTV enough to keep Proton as the RHD hub for ASEAN?

Sofea Najmi

25-03-2026

Chinese Carmakers Still Lag Global Leaders - GWM Chairman

GWM’s chairman says Chinese automakers must focus on quality and long-term competitiveness despite rising exports and sales growth.

Anis

20-02-2026

2026 Audi RS5 Unveiled as Brand’s First High-Performance PHEV

The all-new Audi RS5 breaks cover as the brand's first high-performance plug-in hybrid model with up to 630 hp.

Mukhlis Azman

20-02-2026

2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV Debuts in Japan with Special GR Sport Version

Toyota has completed the sixth-gen RAV4 lineup in Japan by debuting the PHEV version along with the GR Sport variant.

Mukhlis Azman

20-02-2026