Previously, we’ve covered the SUVs that are likely to be launched in Malaysia by the end of this year. This time, we’re digging into the sedans as well as MPVs (non-EV) earmarked for a 2023 launch, starting with...

2023 Honda City facelift

Earlier this year, Honda Malaysia revealed plans to introduce four models by 2023. Among these is the 2023 Honda City facelift, which has already been launched in Thailand and Vietnam.

One of the most significant changes of the facelift model is the standard inclusion of the updated Honda Sensing ADAS suite which includes the Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN) feature. The Adaptive Cruise Control is also updated with Low-Speed Follow (LSF) feature.

We expect the powertrain options to remain as before, with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated i-VTEC engine that makes 121 PS/145 Nm, paired to a CVT, plus the 109 PS/253 Nm 1.5-litre i-VTEC two-motor full-hybrid i-MMD powertrain.

Also read: 2023 Honda City facelift launched in Thailand - now with LSF, starting price equals to RM 83.8k

2023 Proton S50

The upcoming Proton S50 (or will it be called S70?) has been spotted numerous times on public roads.

Based on the photos we’ve seen thus far, we expect ADAS with ACC to be fitted, and perhaps sequential turn indicators may be possible too. 

It’s rumoured to be Proton's most powerful sedan in recent times (putting aside the discontinued Proton Perdana) - with same turbocharged 1.5-litre powertrain as the X50, which delivers 150 PS and 226 Nm.

Also read: Will Malaysia get the 1.5 NA or turbo? Proton S50 (or S70?) seen in the wild as we get closer to its launch date

2023 Nissan Serena

The all-new C28 2023 Nissan Serena has been spotted testing at Genting Highlands earlier this year in March though as of now, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has not provided any information on the launch of the C28 Nissan Serena in Malaysia.

That being said, we are optimistic about its introduction in Malaysia by this year, but don’t hold us to it.

In Japan, there’s a new 1.4-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine hooked up to Nissan’s e-Power series-hybrid system. The petrol engine makes 98 PS and 123 Nm, which serves only as an on-board generator for the electric motor that outputs 163 PS and 315 Nm.

The second powertrain option is a regular naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre MR20DD 4-cylinder petrol engine that does 150 PS and 200 Nm, mated to a CVT-type automatic transmission.

2023 Toyota Alphard/Vellfire

UMW Toyota Motor has begun taking orders for the all-new AH40 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire. Estimated pricing for the Toyota Alphard is RM 538,000 while the Toyota Vellfire is estimated to be priced at RM 438,000.

Based on the TNGA-K platform, the 2023 AH40 Alphard and Vellfire have been designed to offer increased levels of luxury and improved drivability.

The Malaysian-spec Toyota Alphard will be powered by a T24A-FTS 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with Dual VVT-i. It makes 279 PS and 430 Nm of torque, paired to an 8-speed automatic.

On the other hand, the Vellfire is powered by a 2AR-FE 2.5-litre Dual VVT-i naturally aspirated engine that makes 182 PS and 235 Nm of torque to the front wheels via a 7-speed CVT.

Also read: UMWT officially opens order books for 2023 Toyota Alphard and Vellfire in Malaysia, est. pricing at RM 538k and RM 438k

2023 BMW 5 Series (G60) / BMW i5

Revealed in May, the all-new G60 2023 BMW 5 Series was introduced alongside the all-electric (EV) i5. Registration of interest (ROI) for the BMW i5 is open on BMW Malaysia's website.

BMW Malaysia has had a track record of introducing the 5 Series in about 6 months or so from its global debut, so it could be launched here before the year ends. However, it could also be launched in 2024 since deliveries in Europe will only commence in Q4.

All variants of the G60 2023 BMW 5 Series models will be electrified with the addition of 48-volt mild-hybrid technology (MHEV), including the 520i and the more powerful 530i with the same 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine.

The engine is said to be from the new modular generation of BMW Group Efficient Dynamics engines which will be offered in a market-specific selection. The 520i makes 208 PS and 330 Nm, while the 530i outputs 258 PS and 400 Nm. An 8-speed automatic transmission is equipped as standard.

Also read: All-new G60 2023 BMW 5 Series and i5 revealed - MHEV, PHEV, EV, up to 601 PS/820 Nm

2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W214)

Like the G60 BMW 5 Series/i5, the all-new W214 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is unlikely to arrive in Malaysia by 2023, as deliveries in Europe only commences in autumn.

However, given that the W213 E-Class made its introduction in Malaysia within 6 months from its reveal, there might still a possibility for a repeat. Though we wouldn't hold our breaths.

The all-new W214 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class marks a significant step towards electric drive as it represents the bridge between electric vehicle (EV) and internal combustion engine (ICE) cars for the company.

At its European launch, half of the engine variants will be plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and the remaining will be mild-hybrids (MHEV). The MHEV E200 features a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine 204 PS and 320 Nm.

The E400e 4Matic PHEV generates a combined system output of 381 PS and 650 Nm, with the electric motor contributing 129 PS and 440 Nm. While the E300e offer a combined output of 312 PS and 550 Nm. All powertrains feature a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Also read: All-new W214 2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class debuts as the bridge between EV and ICE

Conclusion

Currently, these are the sedans and MPVs that are anticipated to be launched in Malaysia by the end of 2023. Please note that this list is not exhaustive, as there may be a couple of unexpected additions.

If you’d like a refresher on the SUVs that are coming to Malaysia this year, click here.

Also read: Here are the SUVs launching in Malaysia by 2023, from Haval H6 to Kia Sportage