The Malaysian electric vehicle (EV) landscape just got a massive jolt. We’ve been tracking the movements of budget-friendly EVs for months, and today, the Dongfeng Vigo has officially landed on our shores. With a starting price hovering around the RM100,000 mark, this compact electric SUV isn’t just another option—it’s a direct shot across the bow of the upcoming BYD Atto 2.
Style Meets Sub-RM100k Reality
For a long time, the RM100,000 barrier was the “holy grail” for EV adoption in Malaysia. The Dongfeng Vigo arrives with a design language that feels premium yet approachable. It’s compact enough for the tight parking spots in Bangsar but offers enough road presence to hold its own on the Federal Highway. Under the hood—or rather, under the floor—the Vigo packs specs that make it a serious contender for urban commuters looking to ditch petrol for good.
The Battle for the Compact SUV Crown
The timing of this launch is impeccable. While many have been waiting for the BYD Atto 2 to dominate the entry-level SUV segment, Dongfeng has moved aggressively to capture the early interest of Malaysian buyers. We’re looking at a vehicle that offers a respectable range and modern tech features that usually command a much higher premium. In our view, the Vigo’s entry will likely force other manufacturers to reconsider their local pricing strategies, which is a massive win for Malaysian consumers.
A Crowded Market: Proton and Zeekr Join the Fray
The Vigo isn’t the only news shaking up the local automotive scene. We are also seeing a massive push in the hybrid space with the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV, which has just been priced from an incredibly competitive RM105,800. It seems the sweet spot for Malaysian car buyers is firmly established in that RM100k to RM110k range.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, for those with much deeper pockets, the luxury segment is heating up. We can confirm that the Zeekr 9X is officially headed to Malaysia. This 1,381hp luxury PHEV is essentially a “Geely-fied” rival to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, with an expected price tag north of RM500,000. Whether you’re looking for a budget EV like the Vigo or a land-yacht like the 9X, the Malaysian car market has never looked more electrified.
Final Thoughts
The arrival of the Dongfeng Vigo at RM100k signals a new era for Malaysian motoring. It proves that EVs are no longer just toys for the wealthy but viable daily drivers for the average Malaysian family. If you’ve been sitting on the fence about going electric, the Vigo might just be the reason to finally make the switch.