Cruise Control

Daniel returned from the Beijing Auto Show 2026 with plenty to share! Due to the limited time spent there, he decided to focus on the most interesting showcases relevant to the Malaysian market. Some of the models that he will be highlighting in this episode include Denza's rugged compact SUV, the B3, Huawei's luxury wagon, the Stelato S9T, Lotus's foray into the world of plug-in hybrids with a redesigned Eletre, and Hyundai's China-only release, the Ioniq V, among others. Tune in for a peek into what's next in the automotive world.Photo credit: dsf.my

Perodua launched its latest model, the Traz, in an environment that is vastly different from what it once was. The landscape has become much more competitive, with various SUVs flooding the market at similar prices. Despite sitting at the lower end of the price spectrum, does the Traz offer enough for prospective buyers? Daniel shares his thoughts after taking the car out for a ride.In our discussion segment, we talk about the importance of maintaining a tidy driving cabin and what you can do to achieve that.In our news segment, we talk about Mitsubishi's new Xforce, the MINI 1965 Victory Edition, Quartz Black Proton X50, Tom's Racing Toyota AE86 and Kia's plans for the future.Photo credit: dsf.my

The world of off-road-capable SUVs is being shaken up, as Jetour enters the market with the T2 - despite being dubbed the "Baby Defender," the SUV is aiming to face its competition head-on, with a competitive price, without compromising on quality. Tune in to hear Daniel's thoughts on the car.In our discussion segment, we forecast EV sales this year after they've enjoyed a great year in 2025. Will the industry replicate its performance in 2026, taking into account the rising oil prices caused by the conflict in the Gulf region?In our news segment, we talk about SAIC's two new upcoming EVs that have a promised range of up to 905 km, Mercedes-Maybach retaining its V12 variant, the return of Freelander, as well as the demise of AC Schnitzer Tuning.Photo credit: dsf.my

Daniel got the chance to review another luxury MPV this week, as he took the GAC M8 out for a spin, both as a driver and as a passenger. Priced above RM300,000, the GAC M8 is looking to challenge the more established players in the luxury MPV segment. Is it able to do so? Daniel shares his thoughts.In our discussion segment, we react to ASEAN NCAP's decision to give the new Proton X90 a 1-star rating, after Proton removed its Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) safety feature, consequently lowering the price of the car. For context, the previous version of the Proton X90 was given a 5-star rating by ASEAN NCAP. Was this a fair move by ASEAN NCAP?In our news segment, we talk about the new Jetour T2, Ferrari Amalfi's debut in Malaysia, as well as Honda's decision to cancel its EV plans in North America, among others.Photo credit: dsf.my

We feature another hybrid car this week, albeit from a totally different price bracket. The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS is a supercar that, compared to its direct competitors, the McLaren Artura and Ferrari 296 GTB, is relatively cheaper. More importantly, it is a supercar that can be driven every day, unlike the other two. That's what Daniel thinks after taking the car out for a quick test drive. Tune in to hear more of his thoughts.In our discussion segment, we highlight the rise in cases of luxury cars caught not having a proper road tax, or worse, using a fake road tax.In our news segment, we talk about BYD's new hybrid car, the Seal 5 DM-i, the new Volvo EX30, Lamborghini's decision to go full PHEV, and crashes involving Tesla's Robotaxi.Photo credit: dsf.my

As a purist, it's rare for Daniel Fernandez to be genuinely impressed by an electric car, yet that's exactly the vibe we got when he spoke about the smart#5 BRABUS. He tells us why in our car review segment.Before diving into the car, we discuss the rebates and discounts being offered on the majority of new cars in the market. While consumers welcome these deals, what are the long-term negative effects for the wider industry?In our news segment, we cover Dongfeng's market debut with the launch of the 007 sedan and the Vigo SUV. Volkswagen introduced the new Golf R-Line following their GTI update, while Mitsubishi announced the new Xforce crossover coming to the local market soon. All this, and more, on another episode of Cruise Control!Photo credit: dsf.my

EVs are becoming more and more visible on Malaysian roads, with the market being flooded by new options every other week. But do these translate into a tangible adoption rate among Malaysians? We unpack where we are at the moment, especially as we head towards 2030, hoping to hit the target of EVs accounting for 20% of new vehicle sales.In between, we talk about the latest news in the automotive market, including the launch of the locally assembled Volvo ES90, TQ Wuling Bingo beginning its production here in Malaysia, and Ford purchasing Suzuki's factory in Thailand, among other developments.We also pit two luxury sports sedans against one another — the Alfa Romeo Giulia against the BMW 5 Series. Taste is subjective, but which one would be a more desirable choice for you, especially as they're both priced almost the same? Daniel chimes in with his preference.Photo credit: Mentary Merah / Shutterstock.com

The new Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8.5 might look like an incremental upgrade from its predecessor, the Mk8. But it turns out, the 0.5 difference is a big difference. After taking the car out for a spin, Daniel insists that people who are interested in the car should take it out for a test drive to truly understand the difference between the two.In our discussion segment, we try to make sense of the recent rise in cases of cars catching fire across the city. What's triggering these incidents? Will the findings be made public to everyone?In the news slot, we talk about the Mitsubishi XForce, the HEV edition of the Toyota Vellfire, the Toyota GR Corolla Auto, Chery's Prosperity Deal for the new year, as well as the all-new Peugeot 408.Photo credit: dsf.my

Recently, Daniel got the chance to test drive the Ferrari 12Cilindri—a beast of a car that signifies Ferrari's attempt at combining both their heritage and tradition with modernity. Just like the Prancing Horse, he came back from the test drive neighing with excitement. Tune in to hear his thoughts on this wonderful piece of machinery and what makes it special.In our discussion segment, we unpack why, despite the convenience it offers, wireless smartphone chargers included in modern cars are still not the most efficient way to charge your smartphone.In the news segment, we talk about Mercedes' new GLC 200 4MATIC, the GWM Wey G9 MPV, Xpeng's partnership with EPMB, Hyundai Motor Malaysia's collaboration with EON Berhad, as well as Kia's new Seltos and whether we'll see it in Malaysia soon.Photo credit: Ital Auto & dsf.my

Daniel has just returned from the Guangzhou Auto Show 2025, so naturally, we’re going to be talking about what he saw there. There were brands that may or may not make their way here, in the form of ROX and IM Motors, but there were also other brands that showcased their latest models, including Xiaomi, JAC, Chery and Zeekr, among others. Daniel highlights some of the cars he thinks made the biggest impact during the auto show.In the second part of the show, we chronicle Alfa Romeo’s journey in Malaysia so far, as they reenter the country again for the third time. With the Giulia Veloce and the Stelvio Veloce in tow, will their third entry into the country be the charm this iconic Italian brand has been waiting for?Photo credit: dsf.my

In Japan, BYD revealed the Racco electric kei car, the first electric kei car designed specifically for the Japanese market, featuring a compact, boxy body, sliding doors, and a tall roof ideal for tight urban environments. Powered by a 20 kWh LFP battery, it offers an estimated 180 km WLTC range and supports up to 100 kW DC fast charging, making it practical for daily city use. Will it make its way to Malaysia? In the news, Proton launched Malaysia’s first affordable EV, the e.MAS 5, while the government expanded the Budi95 fuel subsidy to 800 litres monthly for high-mileage e-hailing drivers. Touch ’n Go unveiled its Titan Flow RFID toll system for smoother, barrier-free travel by 2027, and Rolls-Royce is seeking a new Malaysian distributor after parting ways with Quill Motorcars, leaving after-sales support in transition.

From Nissan bringing back the Teana in China and introducing the PHEV-powered N6, to BYD’s huge battery recall, we look at the latest moves and challenges shaping the global car scene. We also take a closer look at Toyota’s new Land Cruiser FJ 2026, a smaller 4×4 that keeps the Land Cruiser spirit alive, and dig into Porsche’s EV journey, including leadership changes aimed at speeding up their electric plans.But the spotlight this week is on the Hyundai STARIA, now locally assembled in Malaysia for the first time. We explore what this means for buyers — from its roomy, comfortable interior and advanced safety features to the launch perks like free servicing, rebates, lifestyle vouchers, and extended warranties. Local assembly not only makes the STARIA more accessible but could give Hyundai an edge over its competitors. Tune in to see why this MPV is turning heads and what it could mean for the future of family cars.

The saturation of new cars in the market has led to this inevitability - a price war! Manufacturers are slashing prices of their cars left, right, and centre, with established brands joining the Chinese manufacturers. We break down some of the discounts currently available in the market.But first, we talk about the rising numbers of cars catching fire and what might cause them. Tune in for a quick reminder on what we can do to prevent them.In our news segment, we highlight the brand new cars entering the market, from GAC with their new Emkoo SUV, to Chery with two new plug-in hybrids - the Tiggo 7 and 8. We also cover Xpeng with their brand new G6, as well as Proton teasing the market-disrupting price of the new e.MAS 5.Photo credit: Mayy Contributor / Shutterstock.com