New Car Launches For 2019- Premium Brands

The sales of new vehicles in the premium segment is at an all-time high, with a market share of above 5% last year (over 30,000 units)! Based on Carlist.my’s coverage of new product launches in 2018, the premium segment in Malaysia introduced over 50 new models and variants, and we can expect the same amount this year.     

BMW

It looks like the introduction of all-new models are going to keep the team at BMW Group Malaysia very busy. In fact, two models that core to the company- the G20 3 Series and the G05 X5 are slated to have new generations to recapture market share and perhaps leadership.     

The all-new 3 series has grown in size as well as significant increase in interior features and technology. The model is expected to be launched in Q2 this year.

Meanwhile, the all-new X5 is expected to arrive at our shores in Q3 this year. Key highlights in the new generation SUV include more space and comfort levels.

We could also see BMW Malaysia introducing not one, but two sports cars- the all-new G15 8 Series and the all-new G24 Z4.

We also expect BMW to introduce an updated 7 Series, albeit much later in the year. 

Mercedes-Benz

Back in 2012, the new generation compact car range from Mercedes-Benz shook the automotive world. Six years had passed and the successful models now undergo a significant change that features more style, more technology, and better practicality.

After introducing the all-new Mercedes-Benz A-Class globally, the company unveiled a sedan version of the energetic hatchback.

Just a few days ago, Mercedes-Benz introduced the all-new CLA coupe. Based on Carlist.my’s intelligence, both stylish three-box body types will be made available, however, the sedan could have a larger appeal.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is also expected to continue to aggressively market the AMG performance brand and we can expect the 639-horsepower Mercedes-AMG GT 4 Door to make its appearance here.

Lexus

Much of the sales growth at Lexus over the past few years has been contributed by the more accessible Lexus ES model.

The new generation ES is now larger and yet, set up to deliver more driving enjoyment.

Lexus has also moved their benchmark of the ES to the mid-size premium sedans (for example- E-Class, 5 Series, Audi A6), and as such, the retail prices of the new sedan will not be at previous levels.

We hear the company is expected to release details on the new sedan very soon.

The Lexus UX meanwhile is expected to be launched later into the first quarter. Prices and specifications are yet to be finalized as the preview vehicle at KLIMS 2018 was a global display asset, with the steering wheel on the left-hand side.

Both of these all-new models were previewed at KLIMS 2018 back in November.

Audi SUV range

The Audi range of products is set to be rejuvenated this year, thanks to the effort from Audi Singapore, who are now managing the business here in Malaysia.

The company has said that it will be focusing on SUV models, and thus, we certainly can expect the all-new Q5 to be made available for sale soon. Audi Malaysia is also currently doing an exclusive preview on the aforementioned Q5 and Q2 at its sales network across the nation.

We do not expect the all-electric e-tron to arrive into Malaysia so soon, as the high capacity electric charging infrastructure is near non-existent here. The stylish Q8 is definitely more realistic. What do you think about the new Audi Q3, which resembles a scaled-down e-tron. Let's hope that makes it to Malaysia soon too!

When the current generation Audi TT was launched back in 2015, supply could not keep up with the strong demand. Audi has updated the iconic coupe, and perhaps, they could also use the new TT to further inject new energy and spirit back into the brand.  

Porsche

The facelifted Macan has made its debut in Thailand recently. There is no reason why the updated volume contributor for Porsche won’t be introduced within this quarter.

Meanwhile, we can expect the all-new 911 (992-generation) to appear at a highly-dynamic launch venue such as Sepang Circuit in the second half of the year.

Volvo S60 and V60

Volvo Cars has completed the introduction of new generations of their XC range of models (XC90, XC60, and XC40). The focus now on the all-new S60.

While the market is shifting towards the consumption of SUVs, sedans are still much in demand. The all-new Volvo S60 and V60, expected to be launched in the second half of 2019, has plenty of emotional appeal to keep the brand on a growth trend in Malaysia.

Jaguar Land Rover

Jaguar, apart from Audi, also previewed a new model at a recent sales event in Shah Alam. The compact E Pace will offer consumers who are shopping for a Lexus NX or Volvo XC40 a new option to consider.

Jaguar also needs to compete internally with the all-new Range Rover Evoque. The junior Range Rover is set to make a debut in the second half of the year.

Looking for something more mainstream? We have collated some of the key new products expected to arrive this year here.