Latest Car Launches in Malaysia: New S70 Variants & City Facelift

Malaysia's Automotive Market Buzz in September 2026

September 2026 has proven to be a dynamic month for the local automotive industry, with several major brands unveiling new models and updated facelifts. These latest car launches in Malaysia capture the interest of not just private buyers, but also car rental operators who continuously aim to keep their fleets current and appealing. Two of the most significant announcements came from Proton and Honda, both highly popular brands in rental fleets across the country, including here in Seremban.

Proton S70 Lite & Prime: New Affordable Options

As reported by paultan.org, Proton began accepting bookings for two new variants of its C-segment sedan, the S70 Lite and S70 Prime, on September 7, 2026. These models are equipped with a 1.5L naturally-aspirated engine paired with a CVT. With an estimated price point below RM 60,000, they are positioned as more economical alternatives to the existing turbocharged variants.

This move is seen as Proton's strategy to capture a wider market, including the commercial sector for ride-hailing and car rentals. Their practical features and lower ownership costs make the S70 Lite and Prime strong candidates for daily workhorse duties. For renters, this translates to more choices for comfortable sedans at competitive rates. Rental operators with customer-friendly policies, such as a zero deposit requirement, will likely make these accessible models even more attractive to a broader audience.

The 2026 Honda City Facelift: Upgrades for a Favourite

The Honda City, a household name among car renters, has also received a notable update. The 2026 facelifted version was previewed to the public starting September 4, 2026. Key upgrades include a larger 10-inch touchscreen, a 360-degree camera system, and a blind spot monitoring system. These modern features further enhance the appeal of this already popular B-segment sedan.

For car rental companies like JRV Car Rental Services, adding a facelifted model like this is a logical step. It aligns with the commitment to provide a modern fleet, such as the current 2024-2026 models offered, ensuring customers enjoy a safe and feature-rich driving experience. The inclusion of a 360-degree camera, for instance, provides added confidence for drivers when parking in unfamiliar or tight spaces.

The Growing Electric Vehicle (EV) Trend

Alongside these internal combustion engine models, the EV market continues to expand. Volvo Car Malaysia launched the locally-assembled (CKD) EX90 at RM 428,888, while the Jaecoo J5 EV entered the market at RM 118,800. While this trend is exciting, petrol-powered vehicles like the City and S70 remain the backbone of most rental fleets. They offer the flexibility of long-distance travel with unlimited mileage across Peninsular Malaysia, a key advantage for renters planning interstate journeys.

What This Means for Car Renters in Seremban

These new launches are good news for consumers, signaling that more modern, fuel-efficient, and feature-packed vehicles will soon be available in the rental market. For those in and around Seremban, services like free delivery within a 25km radius make the process of renting your preferred car even more convenient. For any enquiries about the availability of the latest models or to make a booking, a direct line of communication is available via the 24/7 Malay-speaking WhatsApp service at +60 12-656 5477.