Forthing has made its debut in Malaysia at the ongoing Global Automotive and Technology Expo (GATE 2025) in Kuala Lumpur. The brand also previewed two of its models at the event, the Friday SUV and the Utour V9 – both of which will be launching in Malaysia in the near future.
The Forthing Friday is offered with two powertrains: a Range Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV) and a fully electric vehicle (EV). Each powertrain is available in two variants—the REEV comes in Luxury and Exclusive trims, while the EV is offered in Standard and Extended variants.
In terms of design, the Forthing Friday features sharp, angular daytime running lights (DRL), with the main headlights positioned along the sides of the front fascia. This is complemented by a large, open grille that gives the SUV a sporty and rugged appearance. At the rear, it sports sleek, rectangular taillights connected by a full-width light bar, along with a sculpted rear bumper and a roof spoiler.
Inside, the model is equipped with an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.6-inch infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes an electric power-assisted multifunction steering wheel. The premium variants, Luxury and Extended, add a sunroof and ventilated seats for enhanced comfort.
Performance-wise, the REEV features an electric motor producing 120 kW and 240 Nm of torque, paired with a 1.5-litre inline-four engine that outputs 75 kW and 130 Nm. It is powered by a 31.94 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery, offering an electric-only NEDC range of 200 km. In essence, a range-extender EV operates more like a battery-electric vehicle (BEV) than a plug-in hybrid, as only the electric motor drives the wheels, while the internal combustion engine functions purely as a generator to charge the battery during operation.
As for the Friday EV model, it comes with a single electric motor producing 150 kW and 340 Nm of torque. It is powered by a 64.4 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery that delivers a WLTP-rated range of 400 km. For charging, the model supports up to 80 kW DC fast charging and 11 kW AC charging. Other performance components include a front MacPherson independent suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension, both of which are shared across all Friday variants.
As mentioned earlier, Forthing also previewed the V9 MPV. In terms of design, it features a large front grille with vertical chrome inserts and sharp daytime running lights. The rear is fitted with a full-width light bar and a roof spoiler for a more modern and dynamic appearance.
Inside, the Forthing V9 showcases a full-width display layout that appears to integrate three individual screens. Its flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel is similar to the one found in the Friday SUV. As expected in this segment, the second-row captain’s chairs are the highlight, each offering powered adjustment, touchscreen controls, and an individual tray table for added comfort and convenience.
A plug-in hybrid powertrain powers the V9 MPV, consisting of a 1.5-litre turbocharged direct-injection engine producing 140 kW and 280 Nm of torque. This is paired with an electric motor delivering 130 kW and 300 Nm, drawing energy from either a ternary lithium battery or a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.
According to Forthing, both the Friday and V9 has a total range of 1,300km. The Friday SUV is expeceted to be launched by end of this year, while the V9 MPV is expected to make its debut in 2026.
