CAM Kingo

The CAM Kingo is a full-size light commercial vehicle (van) under local Malaysian commercial vehicle brand CAM (China Auto Manufacturers), distributed by Sendok Group's subsidiary R&A Marketing Sdn Bhd. Established in 2009, the CAM brand serves as the official distributor for King Long (Xiamen King Long United Automotive Industry Co., Ltd.) in Malaysia. The Kingo model line-up was officially introduced in 2019 to mark the 10th anniversary of the partnership between Sendok Group and King Long. In 2024, CAM launched the Kingo 6AT variant equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission, making it Malaysia's first diesel automatic van. Positioned as a large dual-purpose commercial vehicle for passenger and cargo transport, the Kingo is widely utilised as factory buses, school buses, tour vans, ambulances, hearses, courier logistics, and special-purpose vehicles.

Design Language

The exterior styling of the Kingo retains the boxy, utilitarian profile typical of light commercial vehicles, prioritising maximum interior volume. Up front, it features a chrome honeycomb front grille, flanked by halogen projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights. Dual sliding side doors are fitted on both sides, facilitating effortless passenger access and cargo loading/unloading. At the rear, it gets a split-opening tailgate design. Dimensions vary across variants: the 15-seater version measures 5.4 metres in length, while the 18-seater stretches to 6.0 metres. In terms of detailed specifications, the 18-seater Plus variant measures 5,998 mm long, 1,885 mm wide, and 2,285 mm tall, with a generous 3,720 mm wheelbase. The high-roof panel van variant (Kingo Ute Panel) boasts a segment-leading cargo capacity of 9.2 cubic metres. Inside, the Kingo's cabin is engineered around practicality and durability. Higher-spec variants come equipped with dual rear cooling coil units and up to 9 rear air-conditioning vents, ensuring passenger comfort throughout the cabin. The seats are trimmed in semi-fabric upholstery.

Powertrain & Performance

The Kingo offers a selection of powertrains catering to varying emission standards and transmission requirements.

3.0L Turbo Diesel Engine (Early Models): Powered by a 3.0L common-rail turbocharged and intercooled diesel engine compliant with Euro 3 emission standards. It delivers a maximum output of 110 kW (148 hp) at 3,400 rpm and peak torque of 370 Nm at 2,000 rpm, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Starting prices began at RM99,000.

3.0L Turbo Diesel Engine (6AT Models): Powered by a 3.0L four-cylinder turbo diesel unit, producing between 145 to 150 PS and a peak torque of 400 Nm. Mated to an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission, it became Malaysia's first diesel automatic van. The 6AT gearbox delivers a 5% to 10% improvement in fuel economy over its manual counterpart.

2.4L Turbo Diesel Engine (2026 Model): The 2026 Kingo Plus is driven by a 2.4L turbo diesel engine, delivering 400 Nm of maximum torque. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. Kerb weight (BTM) is rated at 2,500 kg, with a gross vehicle weight (BDM) of 4,000 kg, achieving a top speed of 140 km/h.

Chassis & Handling

The Kingo runs on a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The suspension setup comprises a front double-wishbone independent suspension and a rear variable-rate leaf spring non-independent setup. Steering is handled by an electric power steering system. Braking duties are managed by front discs and rear drums, backed by standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). The 6AT transmission offers three drive modes—Automatic, Manual, and Sport—alongside uphill/downhill assist and high/low temperature assist functions. It rides on 215R/16C commercial tyres.

Cabin & Equipment

The Kingo's interior is tailored specifically for commercial utility. The centre console is fitted with a touchscreen audio head unit supporting FM/AM radio, AUX, and Bluetooth connectivity. A reverse camera and reverse parking sensors come standard across the range. Climate control is managed via dual rear cooling coil units with 6 to 9 roof-mounted air vents. In terms of seating configurations, the Kingo is available in 15-seater (Comfort spec) and 18-seater (Comfort spec) layouts. Also on offer are the Kingo Ute Window (15-seater Basic spec) and Kingo Ute Panel (high-roof panel van) variants. The 18-seater Plus variant comes with a 70-litre fuel tank capacity.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety-wise, the Kingo comes equipped with essential commercial-grade safety equipment. On the active safety front, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) are standard across the board. Brake Assist (BA) is likewise standard fitment. Dual front airbags are standard across all variants. A reverse camera and rear parking sensors are also standard. The 2026 model further adds a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Market Performance & Reception

Since its Malaysian debut in 2019, the CAM Kingo has registered a cumulative total of 1,443 units. Its peak sales year was 2025, recording 526 registrations. In May 2026, monthly registrations stood at 6 units. Over the six-month period leading up to May 2026, 108 units were registered, reflecting continuous sales momentum. In terms of exterior colour options, White is the overwhelming favourite, accounting for 80.2% of all registered units.

Pricing-wise, the 5-speed manual 15-seater starts from RM134,361, while the 18-seater is priced from RM152,361. The 6-speed automatic 15-seater retails between RM144,800 and RM146,065, with the 18-seater priced from RM164,065 to RM164,800. The 2026 2.4L Plus 18-seater automatic variant is tagged at RM142,800. All variants are backed by a 5-year or 150,000 km warranty (extended to 6 years or 200,000 km for 6AT variants).

With its versatile seating configurations (15/18 seats), class-topping cargo volume (9.2 cubic metres), diverse powertrain options (manual/automatic), and market positioning as Malaysia's first diesel automatic commercial van, the CAM Kingo has carved out a solid niche in the local light commercial vehicle segment. Its comprehensive body-style variations allow it to cater to a broad spectrum of commercial applications, from passenger transport and logistics to special-purpose conversions. While it naturally exhibits a gap in passenger-car-like cabin refinement and intelligent tech given its utilitarian focus, the Kingo's robust mechanical reliability and practical spatial design ensure steady and sustained demand within its target market.