Latest Car Launches in Malaysia: New Proton S70, Volvo EX30 & More

Highlights from Recent Malaysian Car Launches

The Malaysian automotive market is constantly buzzing with new models. For drivers and car rental operators alike, keeping up with these developments is key to understanding the options available. This month has seen several exciting announcements, from premium electric vehicles (EVs) to practical, budget-friendly sedans. Let's dive into the latest car launches in Malaysia making headlines, featuring the Volvo EX30 Cross Country, new Proton S70 variants, and the upcoming Jetour T2 hybrid SUV.

Volvo EX30 Cross Country: A Rugged, All-Wheel Drive EV

As reported by paultan.org, Volvo Car Malaysia officially launched the Volvo EX30 Cross Country on September 15, 2026. This fully electric model starts at a price of RM218,888. It boasts a more rugged design with increased ride height compared to the standard version, making it well-suited for varied road conditions.

• Price: Starting from RM218,888
• Powertrain: Dual-motor, all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Performance: 428 PS and 543 Nm of torque
• Key Feature: Raised ride height, rugged styling

Will this model enter the rental market? Given its premium price tag, the EX30 Cross Country is more likely to appeal to niche luxury or EV-specific rental services. For most self-drive rental operators in Seremban focusing on practical and cost-effective vehicles, this model is an unlikely addition to their general fleet.

New Proton S70 Variants: An Affordable Choice for the Masses

Great news for those seeking a C-segment sedan at a lower price point. SoyaCincau reported that bookings for two new Proton S70 variants, the Lite and Prime, opened on September 7, 2026. The estimated price for the base model is expected to start below RM60,000, making it a highly competitive option. According to paultan.org, these variants feature a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated i-GT engine paired with a CVT, a shift from the turbo engine in existing variants.

These models hold significant potential for the car rental market. The combination of a spacious interior, an affordable price, and fuel efficiency makes them a prime candidate for rental fleets. A sedan like the S70 Lite is ideal for long-distance road trips across Peninsular Malaysia, especially when paired with an unlimited mileage policy that lets renters explore freely. These features align perfectly with the needs of customers looking for a comfortable vehicle for family trips or business travel originating from Negeri Sembilan.

Jetour T2 i-DM: A Long-Range Hybrid SUV on the Horizon

Another new brand set to enter the market is Jetour. Jetour Malaysia is scheduled to launch its T2 i-DM plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV on September 19, 2026. With an estimated price of RM169,000, it combines a 1.5T engine with two electric motors. Its main selling point is an impressive combined range of 1,200 km on a full tank and a full charge. For renters planning a long journey from Seremban, this capability is a huge plus, significantly reducing the need for frequent fuel stops.

What This Means for Car Renters in Malaysia

These latest car launches in Malaysia signal a growing diversity of choices for consumers. While premium models like the Volvo EX30 are exciting, it's the practical, affordable cars like the new Proton S70 variants that will likely have the biggest impact on the mainstream rental market. For renters in Seremban, this means more modern and efficient vehicles will become available. Companies like JRV Services focus on maintaining a modern fleet of 2024-2026 models to ensure a reliable and comfortable driving experience, often with customer-friendly policies like zero deposit.