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Dend of an Era: Popular Indonesian Models Discontinued in 2025 and Their Current Second-Hand Market Valuation

by Layla Zulfa September 27, 2026

written by Layla Zulfa

The Indonesian automotive landscape experienced significant shifts throughout 2025, marked by strategic portfolio realignments, shifting consumer preferences, and an accelerating transition toward electrification. Several automotive manufacturers operating in Southeast Asia’s largest economy made the definitive decision to retire specific vehicle nameplates and powertrain variants. These strategic withdrawals were driven by diverse factors, ranging from corporate global restructuring and tightening emission standards to the introduction of next-generation hybrid and fully electric models designed to capture evolving market segments.

Although these vehicles are no longer rolling off assembly lines or appearing on dealership floors as brand-new units, they continue to maintain a robust presence within the domestic pre-owned vehicle ecosystem. Because many of these discontinuations occurred relatively recently—often culminating toward the latter half of 2025—buyers eyeing the secondary market face minimal risk regarding spare parts availability, servicing support, and structural longevity. Consequently, these newly retired models have emerged as compelling alternatives for budget-conscious consumers seeking modern features, contemporary styling, and proven mechanical performance at depreciated price points.

Strategic Shifts and the Macroeconomic Landscape of Indonesia’s Automotive Sector

The decision by major Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to streamline their product offerings in 2025 did not happen in a vacuum. The Indonesian government has steadily introduced regulatory frameworks and fiscal incentives designed to encourage the adoption of electrified vehicles (EVs) and hybrids. As local assemblers pivot their capital expenditures toward green technology, internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles that fail to meet updated efficiency metrics or face cannibalization from newer hybrid counterparts are systematically phased out.

Furthermore, changing consumer demands have redefined the B-segment and C-segment categories. Modern Indonesian motorists increasingly prioritize fuel economy, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and connected vehicle ecosystems. To accommodate these expectations without inflating retail prices beyond market thresholds, manufacturers found it necessary to prune redundant variants, streamline supply chains, and concentrate marketing efforts on high-margin or high-demand flagships.

Honda HR-V Turbo: Passing the Torch to Hybrid Technology

One of the most notable casualties of the 2025 automotive purge was the Honda HR-V Turbo. Having long established itself as a formidable competitor in the compact SUV segment, the HR-V nameplate underwent a profound evolution when Honda Prospect Motor (HPM) introduced the latest generation of the five-passenger vehicle in June 2025. This generational shift placed heavy emphasis on sustainable mobility, prompting HPM to phase out the high-performance 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine option in favor of an advanced hybrid powertrain architecture.

The removal of the turbocharged variant initially sparked concern among driving enthusiasts who appreciated the vehicle’s punchy mid-range acceleration and dynamic handling characteristics. However, industry analysts noted that the market was already trending toward electrified efficiency, making the dual-motor hybrid setup a more commercially viable proposition for the long term.

For buyers who prefer the visceral response of forced induction over hybrid systems, the secondary market has absorbed the surplus inventory gracefully. Comprehensive market surveys of major digital automotive classifieds reveal that pre-owned Honda HR-V Turbo models retain a remarkably stable valuation. A well-maintained 2022 model year unit commands an average market price hovering around Rp310 million, depending on mileage, service records, and regional location. Meanwhile, late-model examples from the 2024 production run trade significantly higher, fetching approximately Rp360 million as sellers capitalize on the vehicle’s relatively recent manufacture date and enduring popularity.

Chery Tiggo 5 X: Navigating Intra-Brand Competition and Portfolio Consolidation

The rapid expansion of Chinese automotive brands in Indonesia brought fierce competition and rapid portfolio adjustments throughout 2025. Chery Sales Indonesia (CSI) made headlines in March 2025 when the company officially announced the cessation of local production and distribution for the Chery Tiggo 5 X.

The decision to sideline the Tiggo 5 X was largely strategic, stemming from the need to eliminate internal model cannibalization. As Chery introduced newer iterations and shifted its primary strategic focus toward the Tiggo Cross—a vehicle better tailored to the aesthetic and functional demands of the modern urban Indonesian consumer—resources were redirected away from the Tiggo 5 X. Despite its short lifespan in the primary market, the vehicle earned praise for offering high value-for-money propositions, including generous cabin space and contemporary technological appointments at an accessible price point.

In the pre-owned marketplace, the abrupt discontinuation has resulted in accelerated depreciation, creating a unique window of opportunity for bargain hunters. Late-model 2024 units of the Chery Tiggo 5 X are currently changing hands at an average price of Rp165 million. While prospective buyers are advised to verify long-term parts supply chains with authorized regional service centers, the low entry barrier makes it an attractive option for first-time car buyers upgrading from entry-level hatchbacks or low-cost green cars (LCGCs).

Suzuki Baleno Hatchback: The End of an Imported Era

The rationalization of product portfolios was not restricted to locally assembled vehicles; imported completely built-up (CBU) units also faced the chopping block. Suzuki Indomobil Sales confirmed that the iconic Suzuki Baleno Hatchback would no longer be imported into Indonesia, effectively concluding its commercial run in the archipelago.

The decision to halt importation and subsequent sales of the Baleno Hatchback took effect systematically starting in September 2025. As Suzuki shifted its Indonesian import and manufacturing priorities toward fuel-efficient hybrid MPVs and compact SUVs that align more closely with local family utility needs, the traditional hatchback segment experienced diminishing commercial prioritization.

Despite its withdrawal, the Baleno Hatchback leaves behind a legacy of mechanical reliability, fuel efficiency, and low operational overhead. On the secondary market, pricing varies considerably based on the vehicle’s manufacturing year and generational updates. A well-kept 2020 pre-facelift model typically commands around Rp144 million. In contrast, newer iterations closer to the phase-out date—specifically 2025 registration models—retain strong residual value, trading at approximately Rp219 million. Because Suzuki maintains an extensive, long-standing distribution network across Indonesia, owners of the discontinued Baleno face minimal risk regarding routine maintenance, consumable replacement, and mechanical servicing.

Toyota Veloz Petrol: Paving the Way for Total Hybrid Adoption

As the undisputed market leader in Indonesia, Toyota’s product decisions carry immense weight across the entire automotive sector. In late 2025, Toyota Astra Motor executed a decisive move by concluding both the production and retail distribution of the conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) variant of the Toyota Veloz.

With this strategic pivot, Toyota’s popular multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) lineup transitioned toward a purely electrified portfolio, exclusively offering the Veloz equipped with hybrid powertrain technology. The discontinuation of the pure-petrol Veloz reflects a broader corporate mandate to aggressively reduce fleet-wide carbon emissions and meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations enforced across major urban centers.

Given the ubiquitous nature of the Veloz nameplate on Indonesian roads, the secondary market for the conventional petrol variant remains exceptionally liquid. Used car market data indicates that a 2020 model year Toyota Veloz petrol currently trades at an average price of Rp175 million. Meanwhile, late-production 2025 models—representing the final run of the pure-ICE configuration—are valued at approximately Rp260 million. Automotive analysts emphasize that because the mechanical architecture of the petrol Veloz shares extensive commonality with other Toyota models, parts availability and resale liquidity will remain insulated from the effects of discontinuation for many years to come.

Market Implications and Valuation Disclaimers

While published second-hand market valuations provide a reliable baseline for consumers and industry watchers, prospective buyers must exercise diligence. Market prices are inherently fluid and non-binding; they fluctuate based on a multitude of dynamic variables. Vehicle condition, mileage accumulation, service history completeness, physical wear and tear, and regional supply-demand imbalances all play a critical role in determining the final transaction value. Furthermore, final pricing remains subject to direct negotiation between individual buyers and sellers, or professional pre-owned car dealerships.

Broader Economic Impact and Future Outlook

The systematic retirement of these four notable models—the Honda HR-V Turbo, Chery Tiggo 5 X, Suzuki Baleno Hatchback, and Toyota Veloz Petrol—underscores a transitional watershed moment for the Indonesian automotive industry. As manufacturers reallocate factory floors, supply chains, and marketing budgets toward hybrid and electric vehicles, the secondary market assumes a vital role in absorbing older mechanical configurations.

For consumers, the discontinuation of these vehicles does not signify obsolescence. Instead, it opens a practical window to acquire modern, feature-rich automobiles at competitive secondary-market valuations. As long as manufacturers uphold their statutory commitments to supply replacement parts and maintain authorized service channels, these retired models will continue to serve as dependable mobility solutions on Indonesian roadways well into the next decade.

September 27, 2026 0 comment

Entertainment

Sinopsis Against the Current, Misi Balas Dendam Putri Pejabat

by Basiran September 11, 2026

written by Basiran

The global appetite for high-stakes historical Chinese dramas continues to reach new heights, and the latest entry poised to dominate international streaming platforms is the gripping political-romance series Against the Current. Premiering globally on September 11, 2026, the 47-episode television event has immediately captured the attention of period drama enthusiasts. Headlined by two of China’s most prominent television stars, Tan Songyun and Liu Xueyi, the series combines intricate court intrigue, a tale of devastating betrayal, and a complex narrative of redemption and forbidden romance. Distributed via WeTV with daily broadcasts, the series—also widely recognized by its alternative title, The Story of Xianglan—dives deep into the harrowing journey of a disgraced noblewoman who must navigate the treacherous waters of imperial politics to reclaim her family’s lost honor.

Main Facts and Narrative Premise

At its core, Against the Current chronicles the tragic downfall and subsequent calculated resurgence of Shen Jialan, masterfully portrayed by Tan Songyun. In the opening acts of the series, Jialan enjoys an enviable position in society as the eldest granddaughter of the Imperial Grand Secretary. Her life is characterized by immense privilege, cultural refinement, wealth, and absolute social standing. This golden existence is further solidified by her high-profile betrothal to Lin Jinqi, played by Liu Xueyi, the ambitious and promising scion of the Minister of Personnel.

However, the fragile foundation of imperial favor shatters abruptly when the Shen family is framed for high treason against the reigning monarch. What follows is a sweeping, catastrophic purge that ends in mass capital punishment for the entire clan. Abandoned by political allies and ruthlessly cast aside by the Lin family—who swiftly sever ties and unilaterally break the betrothal to protect their own political skin—Jialan’s world is upended. Through a miraculous intervention by a loyal elderly servant whom the Shen family had previously protected, Jialan narrowly escapes the executioner’s grasp. To survive the relentless pursuit of imperial guards, she sheds her noble identity entirely, adopting the humble persona of a low-ranking maid named Xu Lanxiang.

Chronology of the Plot and Escalating Conflict

The narrative trajectory of Against the Current spans a delicate timeline of loss, survival, disguise, and strategic infiltration. The progression of the plot can be broken down into distinct phases that define Jialan’s transformation:

The Golden Era and Sudden Catastrophe: The series opens by establishing the immense wealth and power of the Shen household, culminating in the prestigious engagement between Jialan and Lin Jinqi. This peace is violently disrupted by fabricated treason charges, leading to the overnight annihilation of the family.
The Great Escape and Metamorphosis: Aided by a faithful domestic servant, Jialan flees the capital’s bloodbath. Shedding her silks for coarse linen, she assumes the identity of Xu Lanxiang, a domestic servant within the vast and dangerous imperial bureaucracy.
The Dangerous Re-Entry: Fate, or meticulously planned destiny, pulls Lanxiang back into the epicenter of the power structures that destroyed her family. As a lowly servant, she crosses paths once again with her former fiancé, Lin Jinqi.
The Psychological and Emotional Chess Match: The reunion ignites a volatile mix of unresolved emotional attachment, guilt, betrayal, and tactical maneuvering. Jialan must suppress her burning desire for vengeance while using her sharp intellect to manipulate the very system that victimized her.

Behind the Scenes: Production Pedigree and Creative Forces

The immense anticipation surrounding Against the Current is largely driven by the powerhouse creative team behind the camera. The series is directed by Huang Yingxiang, a filmmaker widely respected for his acute visual aesthetic and emotionally resonant pacing, evidenced by his prior acclaimed works such as Les Belles and Out of the Dream. Huang’s direction is complemented by the screenplay penned by Tong Hua, one of the most celebrated contemporary Chinese screenwriters and novelists known for intricate emotional plotting in hits like Filter and Destined to Love You.

The casting choices have also drawn significant praise from industry analysts. Tan Songyun, renowned for her ability to portray resilient, emotionally grounded heroines with deep psychological layers, brings gravitas to the role of Shen Jialan. Meanwhile, Liu Xueyi delivers a multifaceted performance as Lin Jinqi, capturing the internal conflict of a man torn between familial duty, political ambition, and enduring love for the woman he was forced to abandon. The chemistry between Tan and Liu forms the emotional anchor of the drama, preventing the dense political machinations from overshadowing the human core of the story.

Industry Implications and Cultural Impact

The release of Against the Current arrives at a critical juncture for the Chinese drama (C-drama) export market. Historical and costume dramas have consistently served as China’s primary cultural export, capturing vast audiences across Southeast Asia, North America, and Europe. By blending high-production-value period aesthetics with a progressive narrative centered on female agency and class subversion, Against the Current sets a new benchmark for the genre.

Unlike traditional historical romances where female protagonists are often relegated to passive figures waiting for rescue, Shen Jialan’s character actively dismantles oppressive societal hierarchies from the inside out. Her journey from aristocratic privilege to manual servitude, and finally to political mastermind, offers a deeply empowering thematic arc that resonates strongly with contemporary international viewers. Furthermore, the 47-episode structure allows for meticulous world-building, ensuring that the palace intrigues, court politics, and secondary character arcs are fully fleshed out rather than rushed.

As episodes roll out daily on WeTV, early viewer reception indicates a robust engagement across social media and streaming metrics. Industry observers note that the series is well-positioned to maintain high viewership retention throughout its multi-week run, further cementing the star power of its lead actors and validating the platform’s heavy investment in premium historical content. Against the Current ultimately stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of epic revenge dramas, proving that tales of resilience, justice, and complex romance remain universally captivating.

September 11, 2026 0 comment

Economy & Finance

Indonesia Maintains Current Value Added Tax Policy Despite Global Economic Shifts and Japan’s Consumption Tax Adjustment

by Azzam Bilal Chamdy September 10, 2026

written by Azzam Bilal Chamdy

The Indonesian government, led by the Ministry of Finance, has officially confirmed that it has no immediate plans to lower the national Value Added Tax (PPN) rate. Minister of Finance Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa addressed the matter on Thursday, September 10, 2026, in Jakarta, clarifying the government’s fiscal stance amidst a changing global economic landscape. The decision comes as a direct response to inquiries regarding international fiscal trends, specifically Japan’s recent announcement to implement a strategic reduction in its consumption tax on food products to one percent for a two-year period, beginning in April 2027.

While global markets are closely observing how individual nations maneuver through inflationary pressures and cooling consumption, Minister Purbaya emphasized that Indonesia’s fiscal strategy remains rooted in maintaining budgetary balance and long-term sustainability rather than reactionary tax cuts. The government continues to monitor domestic and international economic indicators to preemptively manage potential fiscal risks, but for the current fiscal year, the tax structure remains unchanged.

Contextualizing the Global Fiscal Environment

The policy divergence between Indonesia and Japan highlights the varying economic challenges faced by major economies in the latter half of the 2020s. Japan, characterized by a mature, aging population and a persistent battle against low growth, has utilized tax interventions as a tool to stimulate consumer demand and mitigate the impact of stagnating purchasing power. The proposed cut to Japan’s food consumption tax is a targeted stimulus measure designed to support households during a period of economic transition.

In contrast, Indonesia’s economy remains in a different phase of development, characterized by a burgeoning middle class and a need for sustained infrastructure and social investment. The Indonesian government, according to Minister Purbaya, prioritizes a balanced approach where tax revenue is leveraged to fund critical subsidies and public welfare programs. The Ministry of Finance argues that premature tax reductions could inadvertently jeopardize these social safety nets, which are essential for maintaining the purchasing power of the lower-income demographic.

The Balancing Act: Deficits and Debt Management

A central pillar of the Ministry of Finance’s argument against a blanket VAT reduction is the preservation of fiscal integrity. In the interview held at the Ministry’s headquarters, Purbaya candidly addressed the reality of fiscal arithmetic. He noted that while the theoretical appeal of zero-percent tax rates is clear, the practical reality of governance requires consistent revenue streams to prevent the expansion of the state deficit.

"It is not as simple as it appears," Purbaya remarked. "If we reduce the tax rate without a clear strategy, we risk a significant expansion of the deficit. If we drop the tax to zero, we lose the capacity to fund the state. We would then be forced to rely entirely on debt, which would lead to further instability."

The government’s focus on "fiscal sustainability" suggests a cautious approach to debt management. With global interest rates remaining sensitive to inflation and geopolitical volatility—such as the ongoing friction between Iran and the United States, which has pushed global oil prices above US$100 per barrel—Indonesia is prioritizing the maintenance of a debt-to-GDP ratio that remains within legal limits and market confidence thresholds.

Chronology of Fiscal Policy and Economic Resilience

The current economic climate in 2026 is defined by several key events that have necessitated a conservative fiscal stance:

Early 2026: Global energy prices began a steady climb as geopolitical tensions escalated in the Middle East, specifically impacting crude oil supply chains.
Q2 2026: Indonesia recorded moderate economic growth, though inflationary pressures from imported energy costs began to impact domestic production costs.
August 2026: The Ministry of Finance reaffirmed that despite oil prices exceeding the US$100 per barrel threshold, the state budget remained robust enough to handle the increased subsidy requirements for fuel and electricity.
September 2026: Discussions regarding the Japanese consumption tax model prompted public discourse on whether Indonesia should follow suit to alleviate cost-of-living pressures.
September 10, 2026: Minister Purbaya formally concludes that Indonesia will maintain its current VAT rates, opting for direct subsidies over tax cuts.

Supporting Data and Fiscal Implications

The Indonesian government’s reliance on Value Added Tax as a significant contributor to the state budget cannot be overstated. VAT acts as a foundational revenue source that enables the state to execute its annual fiscal agenda. Analysts note that any reduction in VAT would require a corresponding increase in other revenue sources or a significant reduction in government spending.

If the government were to pursue a policy similar to Japan, the immediate consequence would be a reduction in the "fiscal space" available for social programs. Data from the Ministry of Finance suggests that current subsidy programs—including those for energy, basic commodities, and education—are heavily contingent on the stability of tax revenue. By maintaining the current VAT rate, the government ensures that it can continue to provide targeted interventions for vulnerable populations without resorting to aggressive deficit spending that could trigger credit rating downgrades or increased borrowing costs in the international bond market.

Expert Analysis: The Risks of Tax Reform

Economists observing the Indonesian market have long debated the efficacy of consumption-based tax cuts. Proponents of the cut argue that it would provide an immediate boost to consumer spending, potentially stimulating economic velocity. However, the prevailing view within the Ministry of Finance is that such a move might be pro-cyclical and potentially damaging if not executed during a period of surplus or high growth.

The current strategy centers on "fine-tuning" rather than "overhauling." By monitoring the economy, the government intends to respond to specific sectoral needs through micro-policies rather than broad macroeconomic shifts that could prove difficult to reverse. The concern, as articulated by Purbaya, is that once a tax rate is lowered, reversing it later becomes a politically sensitive and economically complex task, often leading to market volatility.

Future Outlook and Government Priorities

As the government looks toward the end of 2026 and into 2027, the priority remains the stability of the national budget against the backdrop of global uncertainty. The Ministry of Finance has indicated that it will continue to evaluate the performance of various sectors, potentially utilizing tax incentives or credits for specific industries that show promise for growth, rather than a general reduction in VAT.

Furthermore, the government’s commitment to keeping the budget deficit within the mandated limit of three percent of GDP remains a cornerstone of its economic policy. This self-imposed discipline is designed to reassure foreign investors and domestic markets that Indonesia remains a safe harbor for capital, even as other nations grapple with the economic consequences of radical fiscal experiments.

Conclusion

The decision by Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa to maintain the existing VAT rate reflects a disciplined approach to fiscal governance. In an era where global economic conditions are increasingly volatile, the Indonesian government has chosen to prioritize the continuity of social subsidies and the health of the national budget over short-term consumption stimulus. While the example of Japan provides an interesting case study in fiscal policy, the Indonesian administration maintains that the path to long-term growth lies in the careful management of debt, the maintenance of fiscal buffers, and the precise allocation of resources to support the nation’s most critical economic sectors. For the time being, the status quo remains the strategy of choice, with the government keeping a watchful eye on the global horizon for any shifts that might necessitate a change in course.

September 10, 2026 0 comment