Bermaz Auto has announced that it will stop distributing Kia vehicles in Malaysia. Orders placed before 30 November 2025 will be fulfilled as usual. After that date, all new bookings will be temporarily paused while the distribution rights transition is completed. Once finished, Kia itself will take over as the principal distributor starting 1 January 2026.
During this transition period, matters like warranty claims and servicing for existing vehicles will continue to be handled by Bermaz’s subsidiary, Dinamikjaya.
Bermaz-Kia Partnership Started April 2021
The Bermaz-Kia partnership began in April 2021, when the Korean company appointed Bermaz as the sole distributor of Kia cars in Malaysia after Naza relinquished the rights. Several subsidiaries were created to support Kia’s ambitions. Dinamikjaya Motors handled exclusive distribution of all CKD and CBU Kia models, while Kia Malaysia (KMSB) oversaw CKD production at the Inokom plant in Kulim.
Kia Models Launched by Bermaz in Malaysia
CKD Models: Carnival, Niro, Sorento, and Sportage
Three CKD models were announced at the start of the partnership, later expanded to four in a December 2021 media briefing. Only three were realized: Kia Carnival, Sorento, and Sportage.
Kia Carnival CKD
The locally assembled Carnival is one of Kia’s most successful models in Malaysia. Production started in 2022, with 7- or 8-seat configurations. Prices range from RM231,228 to RM261,228. This locally made MPV is also exported to other ASEAN countries.
Kia Sorento CKD
The Sorento is a 7-seater SUV competing with Bermaz’s other brands like Mazda CX-8, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace. It comes with petrol and diesel engines, priced between RM211,498 and RM255,228.
Kia Sportage CKD
This smaller C-segment SUV launched in 2024. It competes with Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Proton X70, and Chery Tiggo 7 Pro. Prices range from RM147,218 for the 1.6L turbo variant to RM186,999 for the 2.0L version.
Kia Electric Models: EV6, Niro EV, EV9
Kia EV6 GT-Line
Kia’s first EV in Malaysia, the EV6, launched at around RM300,000 with over 500 km range (WLTP). Demand exceeded supply, creating long waiting lists.
Kia Niro EV
The Niro, originally planned as a CKD model, was launched as a fully imported EV in 2023 for RM256,668. Its high price made it less competitive against cheaper EVs like the Tesla Model Y, resulting in modest reception.
Kia EV9
The EV9 was the last electric Kia launched by Bermaz. This 6- or 7-seater SUV accelerates 0-100 km/h in 5.3 seconds, offers 505 km range, and charges from 10–80% in just 24 minutes.
Notable Achievements of the Bermaz-Kia Partnership
During its four-year run, Bermaz achieved several milestones. Dinamikjaya opened Malaysia’s first Kia 3S centre in Glenmarie, featuring 20 service bays, advanced diagnostic equipment, and a branded showroom.
KMSB also developed Malaysia into a Kia production hub to serve export markets which is a rare move by foreign brands, with Volvo being one of the few others to do so.
Entity taking over Kia distribution in Malaysia
Starting January 2026, Kia vehicles in Malaysia will be distributed by Kia Sales Malaysia Sdn Bhd, led by president and CEO Hyung Ho Kim. The number two at Kia Malaysia is Emily Lek, who will serve as general manager. Emily brings close to 20 years of experience in the automotive sector, including 17 years at Mercedes-Benz and a stint at Jaecoo. She is also the person who introduced iCaur to the Malaysian market.
Bateriku Offers Batteries for All Kia Models
At Bateriku, we provide battery installation services for Kia vehicles anywhere in Malaysia. Our comprehensive database identifies your model and recommends the right battery.
Beyond on-demand battery delivery, we also offer services to ease vehicle troubles. Our roadside assistance can jump-start cars, refuel stranded vehicles, unlock locked cars, repair or change tires, and provide towing if needed.
See the full list of services at Bateriku.
