SsangYong Torres has been unveiled in South Korea displaying ruggedness bodyshell which will be available in electric powertrain soon.&nbsp;&nbsp;<div class="container" style="display: flex;"><amp-img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/2236/3789948/ssangyong-torres-full.jpg" width="1100px" height="619px" layout="responsive" style="width: 100%"></amp-img></div> As for the price, it costs from RM92,400 (26.9 million won) to RM104,400 (30.4 million won).&nbsp;Debuted in South Korea recently, Torres or its codename J100 has been revealed with a unique front looks highlighting six vertical slats between the headlights and LED daytime running lights.<div class="container" style="display: flex;"><amp-img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/2236/3789949/ssangyong-torres-(1)-full.jpg" width="1100px" height="619px" layout="responsive" style="width: 100%"></amp-img></div> Moving at rear, the side profile of Torres shows a muscular and angular wheel arch with massive bumper underneath the vehicle.&nbsp;Click here to watch the <a href="https://youtu.be/Si12cxEi7Hc" target="_blank">video</a>.&nbsp;<div class="container" style="display: flex;"><amp-img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/2236/3789951/conversions/ssangyong-torres-(6)-full.jpg" width="1100px" height="619px" layout="responsive" style="width: 100%"></amp-img></div> Cabin wise, it has a modern interior with three screens integrated on the dashboard. There is the digital meter cluster, 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system that merges with 8-inch touchscreen at below which is used to control the HVAC system.&nbsp;Engine wise, the model is using 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo engine mated to a six-speed auto transmission that churns out 168 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque power.&nbsp;<div> </div>

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634174/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Chery-Tiggo-Cross-HEV-Ext-20-full.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16634174" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Chery-Tiggo-Cross-HEV-Ext-20.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">With 1,344,020 units exported in 2025, Chery has retained its position as top Chinese auto exporter for 23 consecutive years.</h6><a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/chery-tiggo-7-phev-earns-5-star-asean-ncap-score" target="_blank">Chery</a> has retained its position as the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/08/chery-becomes-first-chinese-automaker-to-export-5-million-vehicles" target="_blank">top Chinese auto exporter</a> for 23 consecutive years by exporting 1,344,020 units of vehicles in 2025—an equivalent of one vehicle in 23 seconds throughout the year. This came after the Wuhu-based automaker sold a total of 2,806,393 vehicles last year, marking a significant year-on-year (YoY) growth of 17.4%.This stellar export volume has cumulatively brought Chery’s total export volume to 5.85 million vehicles, with monthly exports now exceeding 140,000 units for the first time in 2025.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634175/conversions/Chery-Tiggo-8-NextGen-China-3-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16634175" alt="Chery-Tiggo-8-NextGen-China-3.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634176/conversions/2025-Chery-Arrizo8Pro-Luxury400T-16-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16634176" alt="2025-Chery-Arrizo8Pro-Luxury400T-16.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">Chery Tiggo 8 (left) &amp; Chery Arrizo 8 (right)</h6>Breaking down the sales volumes into sub-brands, it comes as no surprise that the Chery brand itself leads the sales figure, with a total of 1,700,940 Chery vehicles sold in 2025. Among the top-selling models is the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/2026-chery-tiggo-8-pro-debuts-in-china-fifth-gen-model-two-exterior-styles" target="_blank">Tiggo 8</a>, which became China’s best-selling midsize ICE-powered SUV for nine consecutive years, while the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/2025-chery-arrizo-8-pro-gains-new-400t-luxury-variant-in-china" target="_blank">Arrizo 8</a> maintained a monthly sales figure of above 10,000 for 16 consecutive months.<h6 style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634177/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Chery-Exeed-RX-17-full.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16634177" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Chery-Exeed-RX-17.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634178/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Chery-Exeed-RX-18-full.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16634178" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Chery-Exeed-RX-18.jpg">Exeed RX (also known as Exeed Yaoguang/Omoda C9)</h6>Moving on to its premium arm, the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/chery-exeed-es7-gt-es8-shooting-brake-duo-revealed-in-china" target="_blank">Exeed</a> brand has recorded 120,369 deliveries, with the Yaoguang SUV (also known as the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/10/previewed-exeed-rx-vx-suvs-coming-to-malaysia-in-2025" target="_blank">Exeed RX</a> or <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/12/launched-omoda-c9-by-jaecoo-2-ckd-variants-from-rm168k" target="_blank">Omoda C9</a>) becoming one of the brand’s most important models. Available in both full combustion and <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/08/previewed-omoda-c9-phev-up-to-605-ps-1100-km-range-est-rm220k" target="_blank">plug-in hybrid</a>, this midsize SUV is now on sale in more than 19 countries worldwide and ranked top three in its category in key European markets such as Spain and Italy.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634180/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Jetour-T2-MAS2025-1-full.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16634180" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Jetour-T2-MAS2025-1.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634181/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Jetour-T2-MAS2025-11-full.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16634181" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Jetour-T2-MAS2025-11.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">Jetour T2 (Traveller) previewed in Malaysia</h6>As for the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/10/jetour-zongheng-g700-debuts-in-china-off-road-phev-suv-with-1400-km-range" target="_blank">Jetour</a> brand, Chery’s off-roading arm also saw positive growth in 2025, with a total of 622,590 vehicles delivered last year, with its cumulative sales surpassing one million units after seven years since its inception. Among the key models for the brand is the Jetour Traveller, which is also known as the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/jetour-t2-marks-rhd-debut-in-malaysia-est-rm178888" target="_blank">T2</a> in several markets, including Malaysia.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634182/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-iCaur-03-iExperience-8-full.jpg" data-media-id="16634182" alt="Caricarz-MBA-iCaur-03-iExperience-8.jpg" style="width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634183/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-iCaur-03-iExperience-2-full.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16634183" alt="Caricarz-MBA-iCaur-03-iExperience-2.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">iCaur 03 EV SUV</h6>Next in line is <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/auto-guangzhou-2025-chery-icar-v27-reev-revealed-with-up-to-1000-km-range" target="_blank">iCar</a>, which is also known as <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/launched-icaur-v23-2-variants-up-to-430-km-range-from-rm119800" target="_blank">iCaur</a> in overseas markets, which has just recorded a sales volume of 96,989 units in 2025. Among the top-selling models for the brand is the iCar 03, which is now sold in several overseas markets like Malaysia, Russia, and Thailand either as the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/09/launched-icaur-03-2-variants-up-to-426-km-range-from-rm119800" target="_blank">iCaur 03</a> or the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/05/mas-2024-jaecoo-j6-ev-suv-previewed-279-hp-500-km-range" target="_blank">Jaecoo J6</a>.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634201/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Luxeed-R7-China-CIUS2025-1-full.jpg" data-media-id="16634201" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Luxeed-R7-China-CIUS2025-1.jpg" style="width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21058/16634202/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Luxeed-R7-China-CIUS2025-2-full.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16634202" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Luxeed-R7-China-CIUS2025-2.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">Luxeed R7 EV SUV crossover</h6>Last but not least, the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/08/huawei-and-chery-previews-new-tesla-model-3-rivalling-luxeed-ev" target="_blank">Luxeed</a> brand sold 90,493 vehicles in 2025, with its monthly deliveries now exceeding 10,000 units for three consecutive months from Oct to Dec last year. Formed in partnership with tech giant <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/07/huawei-baics-stelato-s9t-ev-wagon-unveiled-in-china" target="_blank">Huawei</a>, the Luxeed brand now comprises two models, namely the Luxeed R7 crossover and the sportier <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/08/huawei-and-chery-previews-new-tesla-model-3-rivalling-luxeed-ev" target="_blank">Luxeed S7 fastback sedan</a>.Source: <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://carnewschina.com/2026/01/02/one-chery-vehicle-was-exported-every-23-seconds-in-2025-maintaining-its-lead-position-for-23-years/" target="_blank">CarNewsChina</a>

With 1,344,020 units exported in 2025, Chery has retained its position as top Chinese auto exporter for 23 consecutive years.

Chery Retains Position as Top Chinese Vehicle Exporter for 2025

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633045/conversions/Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-1-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16633045" alt="Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-1.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">Subaru’s lineup for the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 will include a special WRX STI S4, possibly with a manual gearbox.</h6>Besides <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/honda-teases-sportscar-studded-lineup-for-tokyo-auto-salon-2026" target="_blank">Honda</a>, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/nissan-teases-new-nismo-concept-ahead-of-tas-2026-debut" target="_blank">Nissan</a>, and <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/suzuki-set-to-showcase-five-special-builds-for-tas-2026" target="_blank">Suzuki</a>, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/sixth-gen-subaru-forester-wins-japan-car-of-the-year-2025-2026" target="_blank">Subaru</a> is also heading to the Tokyo Auto Salon (TAS) 2026 show with a series of sporty builds and racing concepts. But what might draw attention to Subaru's foyer at Makuhari Messe next week is the mysterious <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/01/this-subaru-wrx-s4-sti-sport-is-a-500-unit-jdm-only-special" target="_blank">WRX</a> model shown in a short video teaser.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633046/conversions/Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-5-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16633046" alt="Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-5.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633047/conversions/Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-4-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16633047" alt="Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-4.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">Subaru WRX &amp; Levorg STI Sport R-Black Limited II STI Performance Edition</h6>We’ll start with the six confirmed vehicles first, with both the bright yellow-hued WRX and Levorg STI Sport R-Black Limited II STI Performance Edition headlining the brand’s lineup this year. The standout feature for both these WRX and <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2020/12/subaru-levorg-wins-the-coveted-car-of-the-year-japan-202021-award" target="_blank">Levorg</a> specials is the new Sunrise Yellow paint they come standard with, which is then paired with 18-inch matte black aluminium wheels and a slew of blacked-out details around the exterior.Inside, the STI Sport R-Black Limited II STI Performance Edition duo is dressed with Recaro sporty seats with yellow perforated upholstery, black stitching, and suede-like inserts. That said, there are no confirmed mechanical changes, but Subaru did note that both of them will be equipped with a selection of genuine accessories and STI Performance parts.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633057/conversions/Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-3-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16633057" alt="Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-3.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">Subaru Impreza ST-H STI Performance Edition</h6>Next in line is yet another mouthful model, namely the Impreza ST-H STI Performance Edition with the Plus Package, which is essentially a souped-up version of the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2022/11/new-sixth-gen-subaru-impreza-bows" target="_blank">sixth-gen Impreza hatch</a>. Based on the ST-H trim, this special model has been enhanced with several STI Performance parts to make it look more aggressive and, at the same time, increase handling performance.Although the official press photo showcased the special Impreza in the classic Subaru blue, the actual model that will be displayed at TAS 2026 will be dressed in a special black hue instead, featuring contrasting red hues and accents on the inside.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633064/conversions/Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-2-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16633064" alt="Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-2.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633065/conversions/Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-6-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16633065" alt="Subaru-TAS2026-Lineup-6.jpg"> <h6 style="text-align: center; ">Subaru BRZ GT300 (left) &amp; Subaru WRX VBH rally car (right)</h6>The lineup continues with several racing cars, with the most prominent one being Subaru’s new model for the upcoming 2026 Super Taikyu Series that will run on carbon-neutral fuels. The mystery racer will be joined by two existing racecars, namely the updated BRZ GT300 that will compete in the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/06/super-gt-malaysia-2025-rocks-sic-after-decade-plus-hiatus" target="_blank">Super GT Championship</a>, alongside the upgraded WRX VBH rally car that has been tuned for the JN-1 class of the All Japan Rally Championship.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633069/conversions/Subaru-WRX-TAS2026-Teaser-3-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16633069" alt="Subaru-WRX-TAS2026-Teaser-3.jpg"> Last but not least, TAS 2026 will also witness the debut of a mysterious model shown in two <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://x.com/SUBARU_CORP/status/2004145626116931843?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2004145626116931843%7Ctwgr%5E6f7fa18b86b03e23234c332e7a4a509d6a4b81a4%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.carscoops.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fsubaru-2026-tokyo-salon-lineup-performance-sti-mystery-cars%2F" target="_blank">short teaser videos</a>. From those, we can tell that the model will be based on the current WRX STI S4 performance sedan, possibly with a manual gearbox over the standard CVT.<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633070/conversions/Subaru-WRX-TAS2026-Teaser-2-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16633070" alt="Subaru-WRX-TAS2026-Teaser-2.jpg"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21051/16633071/conversions/Subaru-WRX-TAS2026-Teaser-1-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 50%;" data-media-id="16633071" alt="Subaru-WRX-TAS2026-Teaser-1.jpg"> The first video showcases a blue-coloured WRX STI S4 driving with the distinct sound of a manual transmission, while the second video shows parts of the car’s interior, where the CVT’s paddle shifters are gone.As of now, the WRX STI S4 is sold with the CVT automatic as standard for the Japanese market, with the manual option only available in markets like the US, Canada, and Australia. That said, it won’t be long before we get to see this mysterious model in the flesh, as it will debut next week on Jan 9, 2026, in conjunction with the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 show.

Subaru’s lineup for the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 will include a special WRX STI S4, possibly with a manual gearbox.

Subaru Announces TAS 2026 Lineup, Teases Manual WRX STI S4

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21047/16632078/conversions/web_BYD-SEAL-DYNAMIC-RWD-LAUNCH_WA_1-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16632078" alt="web_BYD-SEAL-DYNAMIC-RWD-LAUNCH_WA_1.jpg"> Ever wondered why Chinese car brands, including those already <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/08/china-goes-global-as-geely-chery-and-byd-plant-roots-in-malaysia" target="_blank">established overseas (Malaysia included)</a>, seem to be launching new models at a relentless pace? Part of the answer lies in how aggressively these companies set – and chase – their annual sales targets back at home.Year-end figures compiled by <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://carnewschina.com/2026/01/01/overachievers-and-underperformers-chinese-car-manufacturers-2025-sales-results-revealed/" target="_blank" style="">CarNewsChina</a> show that Chinese automakers posted wildly different results in meeting their 2025 goals, revealing a growing gap between ambition and actual market performance. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21047/16632079/conversions/Caricarz-MBA-Geely-Galaxy-E5-MYDrive-10-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16632079" alt="Caricarz-MBA-Geely-Galaxy-E5-MYDrive-10.jpg"> <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/byd-nears-one-million-vehicle-exports-in-2025" target="_blank">BYD</a> remained China’s largest automaker by volume, delivering 4.6 million vehicles during the year. However, this still amounted to just 83.7% of its ambitious 5.5 million-unit target, highlighting the pressure even market leaders face to sustain rapid growth.<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/geely-opens-worlds-largest-automotive-safety-centre-in-china" target="_blank">Geely</a> closed 2025 with just over 3.02 million vehicles sold, narrowly surpassing its revised 3 million-unit target. The milestone came after the company raised its original goal of 2.71 million units mid-year, making its performance appear more modest when judged against the higher benchmark. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21047/16632107/conversions/Photo-2-_-Chery-x-AISSE-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16632107" alt="Photo-2-_-Chery-x-AISSE.png"> <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/08/report-chery-ranks-as-third-best-non-national-carmaker-in-malaysia" target="_blank">Chery</a> recorded 2.63 million vehicle sales, reaching roughly 80.7% of its 3.26 million-unit target. While volumes remained strong, the brand still fell short of its internal expectations.<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/gwm-malaysia-accelerates-localisation-drive-to-strengthen-supply-chain" target="_blank">Great Wall Motor (GWM)</a> posted the largest shortfall among major players. With 1.32 million vehicles sold, it achieved only 33% of its highly ambitious 4 million-unit target, according to the CarNewsChina data.In contrast, several EV-focused brands comfortably outperformed their goals. <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/04/stellantis-set-to-establish-malaysia-ckd-for-leapmotor-ev-brand" target="_blank">Leapmotor</a> delivered nearly 597,000 vehicles, beating its target by close to 20%. <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/xpeng-names-epmb-as-assembly-partner-in-malaysia" target="_blank">Xpeng</a> also exceeded expectations, selling over 429,000 units to surpass its target by more than 22%. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21047/16632108/conversions/BYD-Seal-6-delivery-caricarz-(9)-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16632108" alt="BYD-Seal-6-delivery-caricarz-(9).JPG"> <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/xiaomi-rolls-out-500000th-ev-eyes-400000-deliveries-before-year-end" target="_blank">Xiaomi Auto</a> stood out in its first full year of production. The company delivered more than 400,000 vehicles, exceeding its 350,000-unit target, with Dec 2025 sales alone topping 50,000 units, although precise figures were not disclosed.Others struggled to keep pace. HIMA achieved just under 59% of its one-million-unit target, while Li Auto delivered 406,343 vehicles, reaching around 63.5% of its full-year goal. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21047/16632109/conversions/web_LJJ_CariCarz_Xiaomi-SU7-in-Malaysia_-9-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16632109" alt="web_LJJ_CariCarz_Xiaomi-SU7-in-Malaysia_-9.jpg"> Nio ended the year on a stronger note, with December deliveries rising more than 30% month-on-month. Even so, its total 2025 sales of 326,028 units meant it reached only 74.1% of its annual target.Taken together, the figures compiled by CarNewsChina illustrate an industry under intense pressure to grow, where aggressive targets, rapid model rollouts, and global expansion are increasingly becoming survival tools rather than optional strategies.

China’s 2025 Auto Sales reveal how ambitious targets pushed brands to move faster and launch more models.

Inside China’s 2025 Auto Sales Playbook

<h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21045/16631236/conversions/Toyota-GR86-6MT-Rolling-6-full.jpg" data-media-id="16631236" alt="Toyota-GR86-6MT-Rolling-6.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21045/16631237/conversions/2025-Subaru-BRZ-Japan-2-1536x864-V2-full.jpg" data-media-id="16631237" alt="2025-Subaru-BRZ-Japan-2-1536x864-V2.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Though renowned as a track and drift car base, a lifted, all-terrain redux based on the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ is indeed rare - almost unheard of.</div></h6> With the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/02/review-toyota-gr86-6mt-the-new-jdm-poster-boy" target="_blank">Toyota GR86</a> – and its <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/subaru-brz-sti-sport-type-ra-unveiled-in-japan-as-a-300-unit-only-special" target="_blank">Subaru BRZ</a> twin, for that matter, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/05/gallery-gr86-cup-cars-arrive-ahead-of-super-gt-malaysia-2025" target="_blank">track</a> and drift car builds are indeed a dime in a dozen to say the least. What is rare – borderline unheard of, even – is a <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/11/toyota-gr86-rally-legacy-concept-pays-tribute-to-the-famed-celica-gt-four" target="_blank">lifted, off-road build</a> that looks almost fit to be a recce car in the Dakar Rally.This week, Japanese tuners <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://kuhl-japan.com/kuhloutroad/" target="_blank">Kuhl</a> made waves online with its unique ‘<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/11/porsche-sends-off-the-911-dakar-with-special-sounderwunsch-one-off" target="_blank">Dakar’</a> or <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2022/11/1988-porsche-911-carrera-coupe-safari-style-an-alternate-to-the-911-dakar" target="_blank">‘Safari’ </a>style build based on the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/08/2024-toyota-gr86-now-open-for-booking-from-rm295000" target="_blank">affordable (relatively speaking) rear-wheel-drive (RWD) sports coupe</a> shared by both Toyota and Subaru&nbsp;– aptly christened as the Kuhl Outroad GR86. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21045/16631238/conversions/completecar-slider-4-full.jpg" data-media-id="16631238" alt="completecar-slider-4.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Japaneses tuners Kuhl have brought that vision to life with its Outroad GR86 tuning kit, and the firm is set to show this build publicly at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 (TAS 2026) this month.</div></h6> If you always fancied sporty off-road specials like what the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2022/11/porsche-911-dakar-unveiled-all-terrain-performance-465-hp-just-2500-units" target="_blank">Porsche 911 Dakar</a> and <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2022/11/lamborghini-huracan-sterrato-debuts-a-v10-powered-off-road-supercar" target="_blank">Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato</a> are, then this build by Kuhl arguably makes that vision a whole lot more attainable – sans all-wheel-drive (AWD), of course.Set to debut publicly at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 (TAS 2026) happening later this month, the Kuhl Outroad GR86 brings more than just an aesthetic makeover – it has the beefed up chassis and powertrain tune-up to match, in fact. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21045/16631239/conversions/detail-main-full.jpg" data-media-id="16631239" alt="detail-main.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Critical here is a custom coil-over suspension set that brings a massive 3-inch (76.2 MM) ride height lift. An optional hydraulic lifters furhter adds 1.5 inches (38.1 MM) for a total lift of 4.5 inches (114.3 MM).</div></h6> Firstly, Kuhl attained a 3-inch (76.2 MM) ride height lift through a custom coil-over suspension system. Additional 1.5-inch (38.1 MM) of ground clearance also comes from an optional hydraulic lifter, which brings a total lift of 4.5 inches (114.3 MM) when fitted.Besides the suspension, the basic Outroad GR86 kit devised by Kuhl includes a rugged-looking new front and rear bumper set matched with 25 MM-wide wheel arch fender extensions, customary side steps, rear under-spoiler, as well as a rear spoiler. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21045/16631240/conversions/reg1-slider-1-full.jpg" data-media-id="16631240" alt="reg1-slider-1.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Optional items even include forged 18-inch wheels, beefed up brakes, roof rack carrier, as well as the boot glass spoiler set pictured.</div></h6> Other tasty bits available in the catalogue include forged 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, roof rack carrier and boot glass spoiler.&nbsp;However, take note though that the items listed in this para are cost-options – you’ll have to pay more for each.Optionally available too is a turbo kit with matching tuned ECU, uprated oil cooler and oil pan. This brings output up to 290 hp from the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/02/review-toyota-gr86-6mt-the-new-jdm-poster-boy" target="_blank">stock figure of 228 hp.</a> This option also stands as the priciest in said catalogue at a reported sum of ¥1.26 million (RM32,520). <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21045/16631242/conversions/completecar-slider-6-full.jpg" data-media-id="16631242" alt="completecar-slider-6.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21045/16631243/conversions/reg2-slider-1-full.jpg" data-media-id="16631243" alt="reg2-slider-1.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21045/16631244/conversions/reg2-slider-2-full.jpg" data-media-id="16631244" alt="reg2-slider-2.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Optionally available too is a bolt-on turbo kit complete with ECU, oil-cooler and oil pan. This bumps up the output from stock 228 hp to a meatier 290 hp figure.</div></h6> Sans powertrain tune, the basic kit and aesthetic options noted reportedly costs about ¥4.16 million (RM107,722). Factor in the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/07/2025-toyota-gr86-debuts-in-japan-with-special-ridge-green-limited-edition" target="_blank">GR86 model’s starting RRP of about ¥2.94 million in Japan,</a> and the total cost for to build one starts at ¥7.1 million (RM183,976).It will probably cost over triple that in Ringgit terms, but that’s still a drop in the ocean versus the multi-million Ringgit figures commanded by the arguably comparable&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2022/11/porsche-911-dakar-unveiled-all-terrain-performance-465-hp-just-2500-units" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(31, 61, 208);">Porsche</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2022/11/lamborghini-huracan-sterrato-debuts-a-v10-powered-off-road-supercar" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(31, 61, 208);">Lamborghini&nbsp;</a>off-road specials mentioned.<div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><iframe frameborder="0" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/bSbU4zeVKKU" width="640" height="360" class="note-video-clip"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div>

This lifted ‘Dakar’ or 'Safari' style Toyota GR86 build by tuners Kuhl is arguably way cooler than any track or drift car build!

This Lifted ‘Dakar’ Style GR86 Build Is Unpredictably Cool Indeed!

<h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21032/16626501/conversions/006erglugy1i8rhcj8jpej32bc334e84-1441x900-full.jpg" data-media-id="16626501" alt="006erglugy1i8rhcj8jpej32bc334e84-1441x900.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">XPeng have revised the export version of its sleek and sophisticated P7+ saloon, and it sees both EV and REEV versions available.</div></h6> Chinese NEV-makers <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/xpeng-reaches-1-million-units-production-milestone" target="_blank">XPeng</a> announced a revised 2026 model year version for its <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/11/xpeng-p7-debuts-in-china-sleek-ev-fastback-with-up-to-725-km-of-range" target="_blank">P7+</a> saloon model. Specifically, the updated iteration announced was for the model’s overseas export version, and there no less than 104 upgrades endowed into it. Both a fully electric (EV) and range-extended EV (REEV) options are <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://carnewschina.com/2025/12/29/2026-xpeng-p7-global-model-will-be-worlds-longest-pure-electric-range-erev-sedan-launch-in-36-countries/" target="_blank">reportedly </a>available.Starting with the former, it underpins an 800-volt platform boasting ultra-fast 5c charging that sees full recharges attained in just 12 minutes. This EV version also boasts either 245 PS and 313 PS outputs, a sizeable 74.9 kWh LFP battery pack and a CLTC-rated 725 KM maximum range.Over to the REEV option, it pairs a 1.5-litre turbo petrol mill rated at 150 PS with an e-motor that brings an additional 245 PS into the mix. The latter also comes brimmed with a 49.2 kWh battery pack that promises a 200 km/h V-max, as well as CLTC-rated EV-only and combined range figures of 430 KM and 1,550 KM respectively. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21032/16626548/conversions/1000035674-1-800x335-full.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16626548" alt="1000035674-1-800x335.jpg"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Exterior visual changes are minor, but does bring a 15 MM stretch to the P7+'s total length. Note also the revised front end and new rolling stock here.</div></h6> Visually, this revised 2026 XPeng P7+ remains as <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/11/xpeng-p7-debuts-in-china-sleek-ev-fastback-with-up-to-725-km-of-range" target="_blank">sleek as before,</a> though it does now rock a revised front bumper design now brimmed with active air intakes plus a chrome splitter. Up front, it also gains a revised one-piece LED DRL strip, followed by new Y-shaped 20-inch rolling stock.At the rear, there’s a revised tailgate design, updated taillights that now encircles the XPeng script badge, and gloss black lower bumper trim now deleted. As for footprint, the 2026 XPeng P7+ sits 15 MM longer at 5,071 MM. Width, height and wheelbase figures of 1,937 MM, 1,512 MM and 3,000 MM respectively continue unchanged. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21032/16626521/conversions/1000035677-1-800x684-full.jpg" data-media-id="16626521" alt="1000035677-1-800x684.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21032/16626522/conversions/1000035679-800x643-full.jpg" data-media-id="16626522" alt="1000035679-800x643.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Changes at the rear are equally mild, and does include revised taillights. Deleted now though are the gloss black lower bumper element seen in the previous version.</div></h6> Moving on board and there are minor design revisions for the cabin too like the concealed air cond vents, new powered glovebox, followed by a downsized new 8.8-inch (from 10.25-inch)&nbsp; digital instrument panel, as well as a newly added 29-inch Augmented Reality (AR) heads-up display (HUD).Retained on board are the steering wheel, centre console design, as well as the massive 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen. That last feature is also paired with a 20-speaker audio suite. Sources online also indicate new zero-gravity passenger seat, soft-close doors, active noise cancellation (ANC), as well as a microfibre headliner, amongst others. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21032/16626526/conversions/1000035681-800x599-full.jpg" data-media-id="16626526" alt="1000035681-800x599.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21032/16626527/conversions/1000035680-800x599-full.jpg" data-media-id="16626527" alt="1000035680-800x599.png" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21032/16626549/conversions/updated_2026_xpeng_p7_dealer-3-800x450-full.jpg" data-media-id="16626549" alt="updated_2026_xpeng_p7_dealer-3-800x450.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">On board, overall space remains unchanged, though there are some design tweaks reported by Chinese sources online.</div></h6> Like the bulk of its range, the P7+ harnesses XPeng’s sophisticated Turing AI chips – a trio of which – that deliver up to 2,250 TOPS of computing power. This, in turn, enables autonomous driving (urban and highway) on top of intelligent navigation.With the 2026 XPeng P7+, the automaker <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://carnewschina.com/2025/12/29/2026-xpeng-p7-global-model-will-be-worlds-longest-pure-electric-range-erev-sedan-launch-in-36-countries/" target="_blank">reportedly</a> seeks to introduce it across 36 markets globally, and there’s a chance Malaysia could be one of which. We’ll point out that the marque are in the midst of <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/xpeng-names-epmb-as-assembly-partner-in-malaysia" target="_blank">finalising plans for local assembly (CKD) here in Malaysia for 2026.</a>Given what we’ve detailed, would you indeed fancied this sleek and sophisticated EV/REEV saloon offering over contemporaries should it be offered locally? Hit the comment below with your take on things…<div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div>

Revised 2026 XPeng P7+ revealed in EV and REEV forms, will be offered globally across 36 markets – Malaysia possibly included.

Updated 2026 XPeng P7+ Announced – EV/REEV Coming To Malaysia?

<h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21019/16621335/conversions/Caricarz-TA-Leapmotor-B10-EV-35-full.jpg" data-media-id="16621335" alt="Caricarz-TA-Leapmotor-B10-EV-35.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Leapmotor hasn't sat idle despite the year coming to an end, evident through its recent new business partnership and the debut of its first MPV.</div></h6> The year may be ending, but that hasn’t stopped upstart new energy vehicle (NEV) makers <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/leapmotor-shifted-over-500000-cars-in-2025-eyes-1-million-in-2026" target="_blank">Leapmotor</a> from chasing further growth and development. In fact, in recent weeks, the firm made a significant business deal and previewed a first in terms of new metal.We’ll start with the former which occurred earlier this week, and it saw <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/leapmotor-shifted-over-500000-cars-in-2025-eyes-1-million-in-2026" target="_blank">Leapmotor</a> agreeing to sell a minor 5% stake to state-owned Chinese automaker FAW. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21019/16621336/conversions/0074fpvtgy1i8rmemnwnpj339s1uox6r-1500x849-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16621336" alt="0074fpvtgy1i8rmemnwnpj339s1uox6r-1500x849.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Firstly, Leapmotor inked a new business partnership with state-owned rivals FAW Group. The latter has agreed to acquire a 5% stake in Leapmotor and collaborate in PHEV and EREV/REEV vehicles.</div></h6> Parent company FAW Group initially announced plans to invest up to RMB3.74 billion (RM2.16 billion) into the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/leapmotor-shifted-over-500000-cars-in-2025-eyes-1-million-in-2026" target="_blank">Leapmotor</a> brand. Both firms have inked a domestic share subscription agreement on Dec 28, prompting Leapmotor to issue nearly 75 million new shares to FAW’s investment arm – FAW Equity Investment.Through which, said investment arm of FAW Group has reportedly acquired a 5% equity in the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/leapmotor-shifted-over-500000-cars-in-2025-eyes-1-million-in-2026" target="_blank">Leapmotor</a> brand at the cost of RMB50.03 (RM28.90) per share. In turn, Leapmotor brand founder Zhu Jiangming sees his stake drop from 23.8% to 22.6% instead.Concurrently, global automakers <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/09/stellantis-debuts-breakthrough-ibis-ev-battery-tech" target="_blank">Stellantis</a> see their equity stake in the brand reduced to 19%. As a refresher, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2024/05/leapmotor-international-established-jv-with-stellantis-to-enter-malaysia-in-q4-2024" target="_blank">Leapmotor had previously courted Stellantis in late 2023,</a> which saw the latter acquire an initial equity stake of 20% - the new deal with FAW sees their stake reduced slightly by 1%.Naturally, with their newfound cross-investment, both Leapmotor and FAW Qixin Power are also set to collaborate on plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and range-extended/extended-range EV (REEV/EREV) vehicles. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21019/16621337/conversions/e59bbee78987-154-e1766927802326-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16621337" alt="e59bbee78987-154-e1766927802326.png" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Leapmotor also revealed new metal in the form of the D19 large SUV and D99 MPV - the latter marking the brand's first. (Image: AutoHome China)</div></h6> Besides this new business partnership,&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/leapmotor-shifted-over-500000-cars-in-2025-eyes-1-million-in-2026" target="_blank">Leapmotor</a>&nbsp;had also previewed its first MPV model offering alongside a new large SUV model. Christened as the D99 and D19 respectively, both were revealed during the Leapmotor brand’s 10th anniversary celebrations held in Hangzhou&nbsp;this week on Dec 28.Both the D99 MPV and D19 SUV offerings&nbsp;now form the marque’s D-series line-up. In terms of styling, the D99 shares a front fascia design with D19 featuring a distinct three-segment DRL and split headlamps. Brimmed in the front bumper too are active intake grilles. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21019/16621362/conversions/2025122813421828-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16621362" alt="2025122813421828.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21019/16621363/conversions/2025122813395173-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16621363" alt="2025122813395173.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Both the D19 (left) and D99 (right) don't just share similar styling cues, they also share the same BEV and REEV powertrain choices underneath.</div></h6> Other notable visual traits include an angled A-pillar incorporating triangular windows that integrate with the roof seamlessly, followed by a two-tone exterior colourway and the presence of a roof-mounted laser radar system.Closer inspection also shows the D99 sporting a short front overhang with both an extended wheelbase rear overhang, silver exterior accents, dual sliding doors with concealed rails, and 19-inch rolling stock. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21019/16621385/conversions/2025122813394654-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16621385" alt="2025122813394654.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Leapmotor's first MPV offering features high-tech touches like a roof-mounted laser radar system plus active intake grilles in the front bumper.</div></h6> Only the exterior of the D99 was revealed, not the interior. However,&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/leapmotor-shifted-over-500000-cars-in-2025-eyes-1-million-in-2026" target="_blank">Leapmotor</a>&nbsp;did confirm that the D99 and D19 share the same two powertrain choices. First comes an electric option with a 1,000-volt platform packing a 115 kWh CATL hybrid cell battery pack.Next to which comes an REEV choice and this one packs a smaller yet respectable 80.3 kWh battery pack encased in an 800-volt platform. For this variant specifically,&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/leapmotor-shifted-over-500000-cars-in-2025-eyes-1-million-in-2026" target="_blank">Leapmotor</a>&nbsp;touts fast-charging abilities that translates to 30-80% recharge times of 15 minutes.Little else is known about the new Leapmotor D99 and D19 models, but more details are expected to be released in the coming months ahead of their market entry and commencement of sales across China. <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21019/16621386/conversions/2025122813373956-full_normal.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16621386" alt="2025122813373956.jpg">

Upstart Chinese NEV-makers Leapmotor sells minor 5% stake to state-owned firm FAW, previews its first MPV model too.

Leapmotor Sells 5% Stake To FAW, Previews First MPV Offering Too

<h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619976/conversions/CariCarz_SN_Honda-Prelude_KLIMS-2024-20-full.jpg" data-media-id="16619976" alt="CariCarz_SN_Honda-Prelude_KLIMS-2024-20.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yearning for a hotter version of the Prelude? Perhaps with either a Type S or Type R badge? Sadly, Honda has quashed any notions of such a plan.</div></h6> Japanese automaker <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/honda-teases-sportscar-studded-lineup-for-tokyo-auto-salon-2026" target="_blank">Honda</a> has somewhat come out to address rife speculation and rumours online about the possibility of developing a razor-sharp Type R variant of its new <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/09/2026-honda-prelude-goes-on-sale-in-japan-mugen-parts-now-available" target="_blank">Prelude</a> premium hybrid sports coupe. Simply put, the firm has no plans for which.Recently, a Honda spokesperson was quoted by <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carscoops.com/2025/12/the-prelude-type-r-rumors-got-big-enough-for-honda-to-respond/" target="_blank">sources online</a> saying “There are no current plans to sell either a <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/04/2024-acura-integra-type-s-debuts-with-a-320-hp-civic-type-r-heart" target="_blank">Type S</a> or Type R version of the Prelude.” Neither the spokesperson nor the firm elaborated further from which. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619979/conversions/web_MA_Launch_CariCarz_2025-Honda-Civic-FL_-3-full_normal.jpg" data-media-id="16619979" alt="web_MA_Launch_CariCarz_2025-Honda-Civic-FL_-3.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619980/conversions/web_CariCarz_2023-Honda-Civic-Type-R_launch_TA_-17-full.jpg" data-media-id="16619980" alt="web_CariCarz_2023-Honda-Civic-Type-R_launch_TA_-17.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619982/conversions/CariCarz_SN_Honda-Prelude_KLIMS-2024-04-full.jpg" data-media-id="16619982" alt="CariCarz_SN_Honda-Prelude_KLIMS-2024-04.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">The denial comes despite the Prelude sharing largely the same bones and key hardware as the current-gen Civic and its Type R performance flagship - hotter version are theoretically possible.</div></h6> The denial comes even though the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/09/2026-honda-prelude-goes-on-sale-in-japan-mugen-parts-now-available" target="_blank">new sixth-generation Prelude (chassis code: BF1)</a> largely shares the same underpinnings as the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/01/launched-2025-honda-civic-fl-4-variants-from-rm133900-onwards" target="_blank">current eleventh-gen (FE/FL) Civic saloon and hatch,</a> the latter boasting a coveted <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/09/launched-honda-civic-type-r-fl5-limited-allocations-priced-rm399k" target="_blank">Type R performance flagship variant.</a>In fact, the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/09/2026-honda-prelude-goes-on-sale-in-japan-mugen-parts-now-available" target="_blank">Prelude</a> shares several key hardware with the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/09/launched-honda-civic-type-r-fl5-limited-allocations-priced-rm399k" target="_blank">Civic Type R,</a> namely its specially-tuned suspension components and high-end Brembo anchors. Given which, it didn’t take long before enthusiasts online began connecting dots on their own. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619986/conversions/1.5L-VTEC-Turbocharged-Engine-(RGB)-full.jpg" data-media-id="16619986" alt="1.5L-VTEC-Turbocharged-Engine-(RGB).jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">One rumour alleged that the hotter Type S could adopt the 1.5-litre 4-cyl turbo petrol heart from the Civic RS pictured, which makes just 179 hp and 240 Nm.</div></h6> Adding to which was a rumour of such a plan insinuated online by a renowned Japanese motoring title. We’ll however point out that said title in question isn’t exactly renowned for both verifiable sources it quotes and eventual accuracy with speculations as such.Said rumour alleged that the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="http://carz.com.my/2025/09/2026-honda-prelude-goes-on-sale-in-japan-mugen-parts-now-available" target="_blank">Honda Prelude</a> could gain a <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/04/2024-acura-integra-type-s-debuts-with-a-320-hp-civic-type-r-heart" target="_blank">hotter Type S</a> plus an <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/09/launched-honda-civic-type-r-fl5-limited-allocations-priced-rm399k" target="_blank">extreme Type R</a> guises. The former would’ve alleged adopted the 1.5-litre 4-cyl turbo petrol heart from the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/01/launched-2025-honda-civic-fl-4-variants-from-rm133900-onwards" target="_blank">Civic RS,</a> which offers just 179 hp and 240 Nm.Such a plan doesn’t seem plausible given the fact that said turbo mill has lower outputs versus what the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="http://carz.com.my/2025/09/2026-honda-prelude-goes-on-sale-in-japan-mugen-parts-now-available" target="_blank">Prelude</a> currently packs – a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre 4-cyl petrol mill paired with a hybrid e-motor unit outputting 200 hp and meatier 315 Nm of twist. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619987/conversions/web_CariCarz_2023-Honda-Civic-Type-R_launch_TA_-35-full.jpg" data-media-id="16619987" alt="web_CariCarz_2023-Honda-Civic-Type-R_launch_TA_-35.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619988/conversions/web_CariCarz_2023-Honda-Civic-Type-R_launch_TA_-33-full.jpg" data-media-id="16619988" alt="web_CariCarz_2023-Honda-Civic-Type-R_launch_TA_-33.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 50%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">The same rumour also alleged the Prelude Type R could share ditch its hybrid heart for the manic 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo heart and 6-speed manual pairing from the Civic Type R, which offers 325 hp and 420 Nm.</div></h6> As for the alleged&nbsp;Type R treatment for the <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="http://carz.com.my/2025/09/2026-honda-prelude-goes-on-sale-in-japan-mugen-parts-now-available" target="_blank">Prelude,</a> said rumour alleged that the hybrid setup mentioned would’ve been replaced instead with the manic 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo mill from the current <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2023/09/launched-honda-civic-type-r-fl5-limited-allocations-priced-rm399k" target="_blank">Civic Type R,</a> which outputs up to 325 hp and 420 Nm.The latter would’ve also seen the matching 6-speed manual transmission transplanted along as well. However, despite how desirable such as setup would be in a sleek coupe, the next fact we’re about to convey might just shut this pipe dream down too. <h6 style="text-align: justify;"><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619989/conversions/CariCarz_SN_Honda-Prelude_KLIMS-2024-35-full.jpg" data-media-id="16619989" alt="CariCarz_SN_Honda-Prelude_KLIMS-2024-35.jpg" style="font-size: 0.8125rem; background-color: transparent; width: 100%;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">Historically, Honda has NEVER developed an 'extreme' Type R rendition of past generation Prelude models.</div></h6> We’ll point out the metaphorical ‘elephant in the room’ key fact that many seem to ignore – Honda has NEVER built a hot Type R version of the Prelude, not eve in past generations. In other words, don’t hold your breath yet in the birth of the first ever Type R-badged&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="http://carz.com.my/2025/09/2026-honda-prelude-goes-on-sale-in-japan-mugen-parts-now-available" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(31, 61, 208);">Prelude</a>.In fact, the only ‘extreme’ version of the&nbsp;<a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="http://carz.com.my/2025/09/2026-honda-prelude-goes-on-sale-in-japan-mugen-parts-now-available" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(31, 61, 208);">Prelude</a>&nbsp;we’ll see arguably comes in the form of Honda’s new GT500-spec racecar for <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/06/super-gt-malaysia-2025-rocks-sic-after-decade-plus-hiatus" target="_blank">Super GT</a> racing duties. You can get up to speed on which in our previous report of it by <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/10/honda-prelude-gt500-racecar-for-super-gt-revealed" target="_blank">clicking here.</a>Instead, we’d rather put our chips down on the prospects of seeing the new Honda Prelude being launched officially here in Malaysia in 2026. The notion of which was teased recently by Honda Malaysia, and you can read up on which by <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/11/honda-malaysia-teases-prelude-in-anniversary-video-coming-soon" target="_blank">clicking here</a>… <img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21017/16619990/conversions/CariCarz_SN_Honda-Prelude_KLIMS-2024-04-full.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16619990" alt="CariCarz_SN_Honda-Prelude_KLIMS-2024-04.jpg">

Honda says it has no plans to build a razor-sharp Prelude Type R variant that’s subject to rife online speculation and rumours.

Honda: Prelude Type R Not On The Cards… Yet

<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21001/16615662/XWWVYTWYSVGCBI526LTHACJQR4.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16615662" alt="XWWVYTWYSVGCBI526LTHACJQR4.jpg"> 

Starting Jan 1, 2026, <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/china-ev-sales-slow-smaller-brands-face-exit" target="_blank">all new pure-electric passenger cars in China must meet mandatory energy efficiency standards.</a> This is the first time the country is enforcing legal limits on EV electricity consumption, replacing the old voluntary guidelines.It is officially called Energy Consumption Limits for Electric Vehicles Part 1 Passenger Cars. Unlike the old recommended rules, this one has real legal force, meaning <a rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.carz.com.my/2025/12/toyota-honda-sales-hit-by-china-ev-subsidy-pullback" target="_blank">automakers must comply or face consequences.</a>The new standard sets clear electricity usage limits based on vehicle weight and design. For example, a two-tonne electric car can now use no more than 15.1 kWh per 100 km.&nbsp;


<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21001/16615666/64a23dbf-d3c1-493a-bb8f-2ada7eb1cac9_847c1f4a.jpg" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16615666" alt="64a23dbf-d3c1-493a-bb8f-2ada7eb1cac9_847c1f4a.jpg"> 

Officials say that after making technical upgrades, cars of the same battery size could drive about 7% further on a full charge thanks to better efficiency.&nbsp;The rules are about 11% stricter than the old guidelines and include flexibility for different driving styles and special vehicle types.It’s important to note that this applies only to pure-electric cars while plug-in hybrids or extended-range models aren’t included. Efficiency improvements come from smarter engineering, not bigger batteries, so automakers will need to focus on system-level upgrades to meet the new targets.


<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21001/16615667/image-picsart-aiimageenhancer-21-1500x891.png" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16615667" alt="image-picsart-aiimageenhancer-21-1500x891.png"> 

These rules also tie directly to financial incentives. To qualify for purchase tax exemptions in 2026 and 2027, vehicles must meet the new energy limits.&nbsp;Cars already on the current tax-exemption list that comply will continue to qualify, while those that don’t may lose their tax benefits. Plug-in hybrids and extended-range cars also face stricter thresholds, including longer minimum electric-only ranges to earn incentives.Chinese authorities, including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the Ministry of Finance, and the State Taxation Administration, have been pushing for this move for a while, linking energy efficiency standards directly with fiscal rewards to drive innovation.For big Chinese automakers like BYD and Geely, the new rules mostly formalize targets that many of their recent EVs already meet.&nbsp;


<img src="https://static-content-live.caricarz.com/media_library/post/21001/16615668/172008745529963.png" style="width: 100%;" data-media-id="16615668" alt="172008745529963.png"> 

Cars that comply can continue production with little change, while non-compliant models may need upgrades or risk being dropped from production and losing tax perks.&nbsp;Heavier two-tonne-class vehicles are most affected, so expect automakers to prioritize efficiency improvements across all models to stay competitive.<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Arial,sans-serif;color:#000000;background-color:transparent;font-weight:400;font-style:normal;font-variant:normal;text-decoration:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:pre;white-space:pre-wrap;">

Source: CarNewsChina

All new EVs in China must meet mandatory energy efficiency standards, marking a world-first move for EV regulations.

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