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2026 Toyota Hilux Spied Looking Like An Extensive Facelift

  • The next-gen Toyota Hilux made its spy debut in Thailand showing its redesigned bits.
  • The new model is widely expected to make its global debut in the second half of 2025.
  • Toyota has filed the Hilux Travo trademark, likely to be used in the new midsize pickup.

In many markets outside North America, the Toyota Hilux has cemented itself as one of the most popular choices in the pickup segment. Over decades, it has earned a reputation for rugged reliability and versatility. However, even icons need a refresh, and the current generation is long due for an overhaul.

More: Toyota Hilux Champ Turns Into A Seven-Seater SUV

A camouflaged prototype recently spotted in Thailand, along with a newly filed trademark for the name “Hilux Travo,” indicates that Toyota’s midsize pickup is entering the final stages of development. Sources suggest the next-generation Hilux is set for a global debut in the second half of 2025. While specifics are still under wraps, it’s evident that Toyota is working to maintain the truck’s durability while updating it to meet contemporary demands.

A Camouflaged Peek at What’s Coming

Spy photos, shared by Thai automotive site Headlighmag, give us our first real-life look of the next-gen Hilux in prototype form. the truck shows off an updated front and rear design while leaving the middle portion largely unchanged, signaling that Toyota has kept the existing cab structure, roof, doors, and greenhouse design intact. The spotted dual-cab model will almost certainly be joined by single-cab and chassis-cab variants when the truck launches.

The front end has undergone a complete redesign, embracing a sharper, more aggressive stance. Slimmer headlights, seemingly connected by a trim piece, complement a boxier grille and sculpted side sections of the front bumper.

The fenders also appear updated, incorporating plastic cladding for a rugged aesthetic. At the rear, the truck sports a redesigned bed with angular taillights and integrated steps on the bumper, adding both style and functionality. While interior details are scarce, we can anticipate a revamped cabin with higher-quality materials, updated technology, and overall improvements in fit and finish.

 2026 Toyota Hilux Spied Looking Like An Extensive Facelift
The next-gen Hilux (above) compared to the most recent facelift of the Australian-spec model (below).
 2026 Toyota Hilux Spied Looking Like An Extensive Facelift

A Familiar Platform with Key Upgrades

Toyota has been tight lipped about the debut of the next generation Hilux, but all signs point to a heavily updated model rather than a clean-sheet design. This aligns with the brand’s approach for the Camry sedan and the upcoming RAV4 SUV.

In the same context, the new Hilux is expected to ride on an upgraded version of its predecessor’s tried-and-true IMV ladder-frame platform rather than using the more modern TNGA-F architecture found in the Tacoma and the Land Cruiser.

More: Toyota Tests Hydrogen Hilux With Mirai Tech And 373-Mile Range

Despite the carry-over chassis, Toyota engineers will likely work on the suspension and steering setup, resulting in a more refined ride and better handling. The potential introduction of electric power steering could pave the way for a more sophisticated ADAS suite. Additionally, the Hilux may benefit from the inclusion of disc brakes on both axles across the lineup, further modernizing the truck’s capabilities.

As for powertrains, it’s likely the new Hilux will stick with the mild-hybrid 2.8-liter four-cylinder diesel already available in the outgoing model, alongside non-electrified gasoline and diesel options depending on the market. Additionally, Toyota has showcased prototypes with fully electric and hydrogen fuel-cell powertrains and has officially confirmed that a Hilux EV will go into production in Thailand by the end of 2025, most likely based on the next-generation model.

 2026 Toyota Hilux Spied Looking Like An Extensive Facelift
The Toyota Hilux BEV prototype based on the current generation.

Name And Rivals

Another sign of things to come is the Hilux Travo trademark, which was filed on December 23, 2024, with Thailand’s Department of Intellectual Property (DIP). Naturally, this has stirred speculation among local media that the “Travo” name will serve as a suffix for the ninth-generation model in the region, following the example set by the eighth-gen Hilux Revo and the seventh-gen Hilux Vigo. However, in most other markets, the truck is simply known simply as the Hilux. No extra frills, just the truck people know and trust.

A Long-Awaited Refresh

The current Hilux generation has been with us since 2015, staying relevant through a series of updates in 2017, 2020, and as recently as 2024. The latest revamp added a redesigned nose with a sculpted bumper and a modern grille, along with a mild-hybrid diesel, but the rest of the bodywork and the interior can’t hide the truck’s age, especially when compared to newer rivals.

More: 2027 Toyota Corolla Could Launch Next Year With A Plug-In Hybrid Option

Speaking of competitors, the Hilux is up against some serious heavyweights. The Ford Ranger, which debuted in 2021, is set to receive a mid-cycle update in 2025, keeping it fresh and highly competitive.

Other regional rivals include the Mitsubishi L200/Triton, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, VW Amarok, the newly introduced Kia Tasman, and an ever-growing army of Chinese contenders like the GWM Cannon Ute and the BYD Shark. It’s clear that Toyota needs to bring its A-game with the next Hilux if it wants to maintain its spot at the top.

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Spy Shots: Headlightmag

2026 Mercedes CLA EV Drops Camo Ahead Of Impending Debut

  • The new-gen 2026 Mercedes CLA has been spied wearing less camouflage than ever before.
  • The four-door coupe adopts a streamlined design, but sports an awkward greenhouse.
  • It will be offered with hybrid and electric powertrains as well as front-, rear-, and all-wheel drive.

Update 12/27: As the debut of the next-generation CLA approaches, Mercedes seems less concerned with concealing the fastback sedan. Our spies have spotted what is believed to be the EV version undergoing testing in Germany. According to Mercedes-Benz, the ICE and electric variants will look nearly identical, with only minor differences, such as tailpipes (likely hidden under the bumper in non-AMG models anyway) and unique grille trims.

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SH Proshots

The redesigned Mercedes CLA has been a familiar sight for the past 22 months, but the model is finally entering the homestretch. It’s now celebrating by stripping down and showing some skin. While the front and rear ends are heavily camouflaged, the latest prototype has an exposed body. It’s immediately familiar, but incorporates some cues from the EQE and EQS.

More: Mercedes Details New CLA’s Two EV And Three Hybrid Powertrains

The changes are readily apparent as we can see streamlined bodywork as well as flush-mounted door handles. The greenhouse has also been completely revamped and it’s an awkward mess as the third quarter glass extends into the rear door. As a result, there’s mismatched lines and an unappealing mix of shapes.

At the ends, there are star-infused lighting units which have become a hallmark of the modern Mercedes. They’re joined by an evolutionary single bar grille and new bumpers.

The redesigned CLA will debut next year and ride on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture. The company has revealed quite a bit in recent months and has previously confirmed an electric variant with a rear-mounted motor producing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS).

 2026 Mercedes CLA EV Drops Camo Ahead Of Impending Debut

Customers can also opt for a 4Matic variant, which adds a 107 hp (80 kW / 109 PS) motor up front. It only has a ‘boost’ capability as the motor engages when extra power or traction is needed.

We’ll learn more about the electric powertrain closer to launch, but Mercedes has already confirmed the CLA has an 800-volt electrical architecture as well as a DC fast charging capability of up to 320 kW. The company also has plans to offer an optional 85 kWh silicon oxide battery.

If you’re not sold on the electric revolution, you can look forward to a new family of four-cylinder petrol engines. Americans will get a hybridized powertrain that consists of a 1.5-liter engine, a small battery, and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with an integrated electric motor. The engine produces 188 hp (140 kW / 190 PS), while the motor contributes an additional 27 hp (20 kW / 27 PS). Front-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive will be optional.

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Baldauf

Ford’s New Puma Gen-E Brings Mach-E Flair To The Budget EV Market

  • The Ford Puma now comes with a fully electric powertrain under the Gen-E name.
  • Its electric motor generates 166 hp, just 2 hp less than the Puma ST’s ICE version.
  • The Gen-E starts at €36,900 ($38,800) in Germany, making it Ford’s most affordable EV in Europe.

The sub-compact SUV market has a new electric contender, and it’s wearing a familiar face. Ford’s Puma Gen-E has officially joined the lineup in Europe as a fully electric alternative to the popular mild-hybrid Puma. With ST-level power, a respectable (if not groundbreaking) 376 km (234 miles) of range, and increased interior practicality, the Puma Gen-E steps into the EV ring with plenty to prove.

But does it deliver enough to hold its own against Stellantis’s electric arsenal or the reborn Renault 4? Let’s dive in.

A Familiar Punch, but Not Quite a Knockout

The Fiesta-based Puma Gen-E runs on a single electric motor mounted on the front axle, producing 166 hp (124 kW) and 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) of torque. This makes it technically less powerful by 2 hp than the hybrid Puma ST, which is the most potent version of the small SUV, but with a welcome bump of 42 Nm in torque. However, tipping the scales at 1,553 kg (3,426 pounds), the Gen-E gains some heft courtesy of its 43 kWh battery pack.

That added weight shows in the numbers: a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time of 8 seconds flat, making it 0.6 seconds slower than the ST variant. The top speed is capped at a modest 160 km/h (99 mph), signaling its city-focused intentions. It’s certainly not going to embarrass hot hatches at the lights, but for an electric crossover in this class, these specs land squarely in the “adequate” column.

More: Ford Slashes 14% Of European Workforce As EV Demand Fizzles

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And the range? Depending on trim, Ford claims between 347-376 km (216-234 miles) on a single charge. That’s a little behind competitors like the Jeep Avenger or Peugeot E-2008 from Stellantis, which feature slightly larger battery capacities in the 50-54 kWh range. The Puma Gen-E’s smaller pack is reflected in its WLTP numbers, but Ford touts an impressive efficiency of 13.1 kWh/100 km.

On the plus side, it supports 100 kW DC fast charging, juicing the battery from 10-80% in about 23 minutes, a stat that softens the blow of its middling range. If you’re wondering, the charging port is located in the same spot with the fuel cap in the ICE-powered Puma.

A Mustang-Inspired Nose and More Room for Junk in the Trunk

Where the Puma Gen-E makes a stronger case for itself is in its design and practicality. The SUV receives a revised front bumper with a closed-off grille and sleeker intakes that nod to the Mustang Mach-E. Beyond that, it’s business as usual, with minor updates like unique alloy wheels, a slightly tweaked rear spoiler, and—of course—the absence of tailpipes.

Inside, Ford plays the practicality card, leveraging the compact electric motor to carve out more storage. The boot offers a generous 574 liters (20.3 cubic feet), plus a 43-liter (1.5 cubic feet) frunk, perfect for charging cables or groceries. Even better, the cleverly named “Megabox” under the boot floor has been upsized to a “Gigabox.” Marketing semantics aside, it seems genuinely useful.

The digital cockpit is shared with the regular Puma, including the 12.8-inch digital instrument cluster and the 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, introduced earlier this year as part of the mid-lifecycle update. However, the electric version features a raised center console with a new storage compartment taking advantage of the space normally occupied by the gearbox.

Pricing And Rivals

The Puma Gen-E is being produced at the Ford Otosan plant in Craiova, Romania, although the electric drive units are being shipped from Halewood, UK. Ford has already started accepting orders, with deliveries expected to commence in spring 2025.

The Puma Gen-E enters the European market with a starting price of €36,900 ($38,800) in Germany, making it Ford’s most affordable EV offering in the region. For context, the gas-powered Puma starts at €28,900 ($30,400), while the hybrid Puma ST goes for €40,600 ($42,700). That puts the Gen-E in a competitive sweet spot for buyers willing to go electric but not quite ready to splurge on a Mustang Mach-E or the Capri EV.

Rivals of the Ford Puma Gen-E include the Jeep Avenger, Fiat 600e, Alfa Romeo Junior, Peugeot E-2008, and Opel Mokka Electric from Stellantis, alongside the Renault 4 E-Tech, and the Mini Aceman.

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Ford

Range Rover Electric Tested In Extreme Conditions Ahead Of 2025 Debut

  • The Range Rover Electric looks nearly identical to the mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid models.
  • It is equipped with an “Intelligent Torque Management” system, significantly reducing wheel slip.
  • JLR will be assembling the electric motors and battery pack for the Range Rover Electric themselves.

Update 11/28: Land Rover has released new photos of its Range Rover Electric prototypes, shown without camouflage during desert testing, following earlier trials in icy conditions.

Unlike most automakers, which typically release cryptic teasers or reveal camouflaged prototypes, Land Rover surprised us by showcasing uncamouflaged prototypes of the Range Rover Electric. Following cold weather testing in the Arctic Circle, the company completed hot weather testing in the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the EV’s resilience to extreme conditions.

The prototypes look nearly identical to the ICE-powered Range Rover that has been around since 2022. The only exception is the grille that appears to be a provisional component. This will likely be replaced by a uniquely-designed grille on the production version, which is set to arrive in 2025.

More: Range Rover Electric Looks Ready To Tackle The Streets Of Beverly Hills

The Range Rover Electric will be JLR’s second fully electric production model after the Jaguar I-Pace. The goal is for the EV to match the performance and signature off-road credentials of the combustion Range Rovers, which is why the new powertrain has been tested on different types of terrains and weather conditions.

Pre-production prototypes of the SUV have been exposed to temperatures ranging from –40°C (-40°F) in the frozen lakes of the Arctic Circle to +50°C (122°F) in deserts of the Middle East, ensuring the durability and stable performance of the all-electric underpinnings, while testing its thermal management system to the extreme.

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The teasers highlight the “Intelligent Torque Management” system, with an individual electric drive control unit managing the slip on each wheel. Thanks to JLR’s “innovative software”, the new system is much faster than the traditional ABS-based setups, reducing the torque reaction time at each wheel from around 100 milliseconds to 1 millisecond.

Land Rover says that in combination with the the stability control and chassis systems, the new setup will maximize traction on all surfaces and “significantly” enhance the Range Rover drive experience. The EV will also feature a “well‑balanced weight distribution” and an “advanced suspension system”, contributing to its off-road credentials.

More: Range Rover SV Orpheus Limited Edition Comes With A Free Statue

The new model will ride on the Modular Longitudinal Architecture. The company has not given away any information about the power output of the electric powertrain or the capacity of the battery. However, it has been officially confirmed that the Range Rover Electric will use an 800 Volt architecture and will offer V8-levels of performance.

The company has also promised that the Range Rover Electric will surpass any other luxury electric SUV in terms of towing, wading, and all-terrain capabilities.

Production of the Range Rover Electric will take place in the UK, next to the mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions. As reported by Autocar, it will initially use battery packs from other suppliers before switching to in-house assembled units.

While we don’t have a set date for the debut, Land Rover has opened a waiting list for the EV since late 2023, and said it will welcome client reservations in 2025.

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Land Rover

Stellantis Extends Fiat 500e And Maserati Production Halt Again By Two More Weeks As Sales Struggle

  • Fewer than 500 examples of the electric hatchback have been sold in the U.S. this year.
  • The Mirafiori plant also handles the production of the Maserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio.
  • Despite poor sales, Stellantis is investing €100M into developing a new high-performance battery.

Update 12/12: Well, it’s that time of the week again, as Stellantis can’t seem to make up its mind about how long it wants to stop production at its Mirafiori plant in Italy. This time, we learn that the stoppage, which affects the electric Fiat 500 and the Maserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio, will extend until January 20, 2025, or two full weeks longer than previously announced. Production will halt starting December 18, 2024.

Stellantis stated it is still “assessing” its order books for January but declined to comment on media speculation about the sluggish sales of the Fiat 500e. “We will make announcements about January’s activities next week,” the company told Reuters in a statement. Stay tuned for the next chapter.

Original story follows below.

 Stellantis Extends Fiat 500e And Maserati Production Halt Again By Two More Weeks As Sales Struggle

Lackluster demand for the all-electric Fiat 500e has once again prompted Stellantis to pause production at the Italian factory that builds this pint-sized electric hatchback. Despite Fiat’s hopes for the 500e to be a breakthrough model, the reality has been anything but.

Previously, Stellantis had confirmed that it will halt production at the Mirafiori plant between December 2 and January 5, 2025. Originally, the plant was scheduled to shut down from December 18 to January 5 due to the Christmas and New Year holidays. However, the company recently informed unions that production would also pause from December 2 through to December 17, extending the break further than initially planned.

Review: Fiat 500e Is A Stylish EV But At What Cost?

The Fiat 500e has proven to be a thorn in the side of Stellantis in recent months. In September, the car-making conglomerate revealed that 500e production would be paused from the second week of that month until October 11. Yet, halfway through the planned shutdown, Stellantis extended the halt until November 1.

The disruption won’t only affect the 500e. The Maserati GranTurismo and GranCabrio are also produced at the Mirafiori plant, meaning both models will be impacted by the December shutdown, Reuters reports.

 Stellantis Extends Fiat 500e And Maserati Production Halt Again By Two More Weeks As Sales Struggle

The reception to the 500e has been particularly poor in the United States. Fewer than 500 examples have been sold locally this year, despite Fiat releasing several special edition models in recent months. These include the 500e Giorgio Armani, the 500e ‘Inspired By Los Angeles,’ the 500e ‘Inspired By Beauty,’ and another known as the ‘Inspired By Music.’

Read: Fiat Still Can’t Sell The 500e, Extends EV’s Production Halt

While many companies would consider cutting their losses after such disappointing sales, Stellantis is taking a different approach—at least for now. The brand has already committed to investing €100 million ($105 million) into developing a new high-performance battery for the 500e that should boost its dismal driving range and contribute to improved performance. Fiat is also reverse-engineering the 500e to accommodate a hybrid drivetrain with plans to launch this model in late 2025 or early 2026.

 Stellantis Extends Fiat 500e And Maserati Production Halt Again By Two More Weeks As Sales Struggle

First Look At Mercedes-AMG’s 1,000 HP Electric SUV Flagship

  • Mercedes-AMG is developing a high-performance SUV with a fully electric powertrain.
  • The EV will be built on the AMG.EA platform and is rumored to produce over 1,000 hp.
  • It’s expected to launch in 2026, alongside the electric successor to the 4-Door AMG GT.

Update 12/13: Mercedes-AMG has kicked off the next phase of development for its high-performance electric SUV, marking the second model to ride on the AMG.EA platform. Prototypes of both the SUV and the mechanically related GT 4-Door are now undergoing cold-weather testing in northern Sweden, close to the Arctic Circle. Sub-zero temps are putting key components through their paces on both public roads and specialized tracks, giving engineers a proper workout.

To mark the occasion, AMG has decided to give us a peek at the prototype itself—well, kind of. It’s still wrapped in enough camouflage to make a spy movie jealous, but we can already catch the design vibes in the fresh video that they dropped. It looks set to borrow heavily from the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door EV in terms of styling, with soft, rounded lines and a fairly low-slung silhouette for an SUV.

 First Look At Mercedes-AMG’s 1,000 HP Electric SUV Flagship

Original story follows below.

Previously, Mercedes-AMG dropped a teaser for its first standalone electric SUV, scheduled for a 2026 debut. Built on a dedicated AMG platform, this model aims to go beyond the typical formula of adding special touches to a standard Mercedes SUV. Instead, it’s designed from the ground up with AMG’s performance DNA at its core.

Developed “entirely in-house” on the AMG.EA architecture, it will be a bespoke AMG offering, rather than the performance derivative of a Mercedes SUV. The brand’s insistence on it being “AMG first, all-electric second” hints at a potential rethink of what an electric performance SUV can actually deliver.

More: Thank God The 2026 Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Has A Roaring V8

The teaser sketch gives us a few clues. It reveals a muscular profile with a long hood, aggressive fender lines, and a sweeping roofline that’s a bit more Purosangue-inspired than you’d expect from a German SUV. Still, it’s less ostentatious than Ferrari’s take—AMG has always preferred a slightly more understated approach to menace.

The AMG.EA platform features an 800V architecture and is expected to support both the upcoming, yet-to-be-named SUV and the electric successor to the 4-Door AMG GT. Both EVs will be equipped with lightweight axial-flux electric motors, custom-developed for AMG by UK-based company Yasa.

 First Look At Mercedes-AMG’s 1,000 HP Electric SUV Flagship
The official sketch (above) and our speculative render (below) for the upcoming performance SUV.
 First Look At Mercedes-AMG’s 1,000 HP Electric SUV Flagship

A quad-motor setup is expected to produce over 1,000 hp (746 kW / 1,014 PS), offering all-wheel-drive and advanced torque vectoring abilities. The model will also benefit from four-wheel steering, active suspension, and an AMG-specific battery.

The SUV is expected to be similar in size to the 2022 Vision AMG concept, measuring around 5.1 meters (200 inches) in length, with a wheelbase stretching over 3 meters (118 inches). This gives it a larger footprint than the ICE-powered Mercedes-AMG GLE 63, edging it closer to the scale of the fully electric EQS SUV flagship.

On paper, its rivals span both ends of the propulsion spectrum. It’ll face off against gas-powered heavyweights like the Porsche Cayenne GT and Aston Martin DBX, as well as hybrid and all-electric contenders such as the BMW XM, Lamborghini Urus, and the Lotus Eletre.

We’ll likely get more breadcrumbs from AMG in the months to come, as the slow-drip teaser campaign ramps up. The company has confirmed that development test drives are set to begin this winter.

An SUV that's 100% born in Affalterbach is coming. Built on the AMG.EA platform, it’s the first fully electric SUV crafted entirely in-house by AMG.#MercedesAMG #AMGThrill pic.twitter.com/L73TDjJ8MS

— Mercedes-AMG (@MercedesAMG) November 7, 2024

Kia Syros SUV Shows More Of Its Quirky Styling Ahead Of Imminent Debut

  • Kia will expand its crossover lineup in India with a new offering called Syros.
  • The model will feature a minivan-inspired silhouette and a “lounge-like” interior.
  • It will debut on December 19, and will reportedly offer ICE and EV options.

Update 12/16: Continuing its teaser campaign, Kia has published more revealing videos of the Kia Syros and confirmed that the global debut will take place in India on December 19.

Kia is ready to unveil a new small SUV offering, called the Syros. The model will make its global debut in India on December 19, featuring minivan-like proportions, a well-appointed equipment list, and what the company describes as an “innovative” seating arrangement.

The Syros forms a key part of Kia’s “Kia 2.0 Strategy” for India, which aims to meet the specific demands of local buyers while maintaining global appeal. Set to bridge the gap between the Sonet and the Seltos in the brand’s lineup, the Syros is poised to play a crucial role in Kia’s continued expansion in the region.

More: 2026 Kia Sportage Brings Sharper Looks, Swaps DCT For 8-Speed Auto

The name “Syros” follows Kia’s established pattern of using “S”-starting names for its SUVs, such as the Sonet, Seltos, Stonic, Sportage, and Sorento. While the company hasn’t revealed the exact inspiration behind the name, Syros is a Greek island in the Aegean Sea, close to the more famous Mykonos.

From the teasers, the Syros presents a boxy silhouette reminiscent of a smaller Kia Carnival minivan, with a flat roofline and a nearly vertical tailgate. The profile features a prominent B-pillar, echoing design elements seen in models like the Hyundai Casper and Inster. Other design highlights include the LED headlights mounted on the edges of the bumper, and the L-shaped taillights flanking the rear windshield.

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Gwanggu Lee, Managing Director and CEO of Kia India, noted that the new model incorporates a “progressive SUV design language that doesn’t follow the conventional SUV design anymore”. The CEO also promised it will offer “segment-first features, exceptional performance, and unparalleled comfort”, focused on the needs of Indian buyers.

As reported by Autocar India, Kia also revealed that the Syros will feature a “lounge-like” interior, with “futuristic features and an innovative seating layout”. The vehicle’s equipment list is expected to include a 10.25-inch infotainment display, powered and ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, a Bose audio system, up to six airbags, and a range of advanced safety features.

At launch, the Kia Syros will be offered with two non-electrified powertrains – a turbo 1.0-liter gasoline and a 1.5-liter diesel – with a fully electric version rumored to join the lineup in future. Power will be transmitted to the front axle via a six-speed manual or a an automatic (six-speed torque converter or seven-speed dual-clutch).

The market launch of the Kia Syros in India is expected in early 2025. The fact that Kia published teasers of the SUV in its worldwide channels suggests it could also eventually be offered in other markets.

New Hyundai Ioniq 9 Electric 3-Row SUV Shows Production Front End

  • Hyundai has teased the production version of the SEVEN concept from 2021.
  • The three-row electric SUV is set to make its world premiere at the LA Auto Show.
  • Underpinning Hyundai’s latest EV is the familiar E-GMP platform shared with Kia’s EV9.

Update 11/12: As the LA Motor Show draws closer, Hyundai is cranking up the teaser campaign for its Ioniq 9. The latest short video, which you can check out for yourself below, gives us a few quick glimpses of both the exterior and interior, including an unmasked shot of the front end.

Additionally, Hyundai has shared a ghost sketch of the cabin, revealing a three-row layout that accommodates up to seven passengers in a “lounge-like environment.” They also highlighted the “spacious cabin with a flat floor across all three rows, enabling easy movement within the vehicle.”

 New Hyundai Ioniq 9 Electric 3-Row SUV Shows Production Front End

Hyundai has been on a relentless EV offensive in recent years, pushing hard to expand its all-electric Ioniq lineup and establish itself as a major player in the zero-emissions space. The latest chapter in this saga is the Ioniq 9—the brand’s biggest and boldest EV yet—designed to tap into the growing demand for larger, three-row electric SUVs. Teased with just enough detail to stir up interest, the production Ioniq 9 is set for its full global unveiling in November.

The Ioniq 9’s arrival was first hinted at with the launch of the compelling SEVEN Concept at the LA Auto Show in November 2021 and will serve as Hyundai’s alternative to the Kia EV9. While these teasers don’t provide us with a detailed look at the new SUV, it’s clear that it will look very similar to that concept.

Read: Hyundai Ioniq 9 EV Looks Ready For Production In Latest Spy Shots

Found at the front of the Ioniq 9 will be a full-width LED light bar with Hyundai’s eye-catching ‘Parametric Pixels’ design as seen on the smaller Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. As with the concept, the new model will feature additional pixel LEDs running vertically down the front fascia.

The side profile is also quite familiar. It has a very similar shape to the SEVEN Concept and includes particularly thick D-pillars with squared-off wheel arches. The concept stunned with its rear suicide doors, but it seems unlikely these will be retained for the production model. No teaser has been provided of the EV’s rear end, but the side shot does show prominent pixel LEDs, which form a T-shape.

Hyundai claims the diagonal lines that cut across the body are inspired by Hanbok, a traditional Korean garment, while the overall design supposedly draws influence from the sleek hulls and open, airy cabins of luxury boats.

 New Hyundai Ioniq 9 Electric 3-Row SUV Shows Production Front End
Hyundai SEVEN Concept
 New Hyundai Ioniq 9 Electric 3-Row SUV Shows Production Front End

Underpinning the new SUV will be the Hyundai Motor Group’s ever-present E-GMP platform with an 800V charging capability. There’s no word on what battery packs the Ioniq 9 will be available with nor what motor configurations customers will be able to choose from. However, in all likelihood, Hyundai will borrow from the Kia EV9’s playbook, offering the same 76.1 kWh and 99.8 kWh battery packs. If so, power output could range anywhere from a sensible 215 hp to a far more exhilarating 576 hp, catering to a broad spectrum of buyers.

Expect Hyundai to drip-feed more teasers of the Ioniq 9 in the lead-up to its November unveiling, which will take place at next month’s LA Auto Show.

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Lucid Starts Gravity SUV Production With 800 HP, 440 Mile Range, And $95,000 Price

  • Lucid has revealed that pricing for the Gravity will start at $79,900, with the Grand Touring model priced at $94,900.
  • Production of the Gravity began on December 5, with the top-tier model offering over 800 hp and a range of more than 440 miles.
  • The company started accepting orders on November 7 and current owners will be given priority.

Update 12/9: About a month after Lucid Motors began accepting orders for its second model and first-ever SUV, the Gravity, the Saudi-backed American startup officially kicked off series production on December 5. “Today marks an exciting milestone for our company. Production of the Lucid Gravity is now underway at our factory in Arizona!” the company said in a post on X. “This milestone is a celebration of the hard work by our passionate and dedicated team to bring this groundbreaking SUV to life,” it added.

With production now underway, the next big question is when the first deliveries will take place. We’ve reached out to Lucid to inquire about the timeline for these initial deliveries and will update this story once we receive a response.

Original story follows below.

Today marks an exciting landmark for our company. Production of the Lucid Gravity is now underway at our factory in Arizona!​

This milestone is a celebration of the hard work by our passionate and dedicated team to bring this groundbreaking SUV to life. Its combination of space… pic.twitter.com/ItJsOL3H3Y

— Lucid Motors (@LucidMotors) December 5, 2024

Four years after teasing the Gravity SUV, Lucid is finally gearing up to launch the model. As part of this effort, the company has announced pricing and revealed orders will open on November 7.

Lucid didn’t delve into specifics, but confirmed the model will initially be offered in Grand Touring guise for $94,900. Production is slated to begin late this year and the electric crossover promises to have more than 800 hp (597 kW / 811 PS) as well as a range in excess of 440 miles (708 km).

More: 2025 Lucid Gravity Goes After Model X With 440-Mile Range And Sub-$80,000 Price

That’s not much to go on, but the company has previously revealed the model will be offered with an adjustable air suspension and 20- to 23-inch wheels. We can also expect a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of less than 3.5 seconds and a towing capacity of up to 6,000 lbs (2,722 kg).

The minimalist interior focuses on screens as drivers are greeted by a sizable curved display as well as a dedicated infotainment system. They’re joined by a two-spoke steering wheel and seating for up to seven people.

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An assortment of options will be available including heated, ventilated and massaging front seats, a 22-speaker premium audio system, and a four-zone climate control system. The frunk can even be equipped with a seat that can accommodate two adults, so you have a place to relax while your kids play soccer.

We can expect to learn more when the configurator is launched next month, but Lucid said current owners will be given priority when it comes to deliveries. The company also announced a more affordable Gravity Touring is scheduled to arrive late next year with a base price of $79,900.

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2026 Lancia Gamma Will Offer A Hybrid Too After Stellantis Changes Course

  • Stellantis confirms Lancia Gamma will launch in 2026 with hybrid and electric powertrains.
  • Based on the STLA Medium platform, it will be roughly the same size as the BMW 4 Series.
  • The new model will be built at Italy’s Melfi plant as part of Stellantis’ €2 billion investment.

Update 12/18: It’s been a full year since we last heard any updates about the upcoming Lancia Gamma, but today there’s news, and it signals a slight shift in Stellantis’ plans. While the automaker previously seemed committed to making the Gamma an all-electric model, it now plans to offer hybrid versions as well, reflecting a broader adjustment to its electrification strategy across its brands. Stellantis is leaning on its adaptable STLA platforms to accommodate both EVs and hybrids, giving buyers more options in a market that still favors variety.

The announcement was made on Wednesday during the Stellantis Roundtable, held at the Ministry of Business and Made in Italy (MIMIT). The meeting saw Stellantis commit to €2 billion ($2.1 billion) in investments for Italian production, a move aimed at strengthening its relationship with the Italian government. Stellantis’ European boss, Jean-Philippe Imparato, revealed that the Gamma would include hybrid powertrains to meet evolving market demands.

Lancia released a statement explaining the decision:

“The decision to expand the offer of the new model with electrified engines represents a concrete response to real market demands and allows any mobility need to be satisfied. All this translates into a predictable growth in production volumes and a consequent increase in the brand’s competitiveness on the global market.”

The Gamma will use Stellantis’ STLA Medium multi-energy platform, which supports both hybrid and electric configurations. Production of the model is scheduled to begin at Stellantis’ Melfi plant in Italy in 2026.

 2026 Lancia Gamma Will Offer A Hybrid Too After Stellantis Changes Course

Original story follows below.

Lancia has unveiled its roadmap for the upcoming decade, and it’s no surprise that electrification takes center stage. The journey began with the introduction of the new Ypsilon in 2024, which will be followed by the launch of the flagship Gamma in 2026, and culminating with a new electrified Delta in 2028.

The Italian brand confirmed that the upcoming Ypsilon will be offered in both pure battery-powered and hybrid variants. However, beginning in 2026, the company will exclusively introduce new EVs, and by 2028, their entire lineup will consist solely of electric-powered models. This implies that the hybrid Ypsilon will have a relatively short lifespan, lasting only four years.

In 2026, Lancia is set to debut its first exclusive electric vehicle, to be manufactured at Stellantis’ Melfi plant in Italy. Measuring in at 185 inches (4.7 meters) long, it will be roughly the same size as a BMW 4-series. Lancia’s CEO, Luca Napolitano, says that it will be an elegant fastback that is based on the STLA medium platform. Notably, he had previously confirmed the resurrection of the Gamma nameplate. “Our second flagship car, slated to debut in 2026, will be named ‘Gamma,'” Napolitano affirmed.

More: What We Know About The 2028 Lancia Delta Premium Hatch

 2026 Lancia Gamma Will Offer A Hybrid Too After Stellantis Changes Course
The 2023 Lancia Ypsilon

“The flagship of Casa Lancia will be a beautiful and elegant Italian car, beautiful outside and beautiful inside, where it will really look like you feel in the living room of an Italian house,” said Napolitano. “The STLA Medium platform will be perfect for Lancia, as a native BEV will be very efficient and will guarantee high levels of comfort, offering both a front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive version.”

Thanks to its platform, Lancia anticipates that the flagship model will get up to 435 miles (700 km) of range per charge. It also expects 50 percent of the EV’s sales to come from European countries outside of Italy.

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Illustrations Francois Hubert/SB-Medien for CarScoops

Unfortunately, few details have been revealed about the new Delta, which is due in 2028, but speaking to Italian media in the past, Luca Napolitano confirmed the return of the compact model saying: “It will return and it will be a true Delta – an exciting car, a manifesto of progress and technology, and obviously it will be electric”.

All three of the vehicles announced by Lancia today form part of Stellantis’ Dare Forward 2030 strategy. The automaker hopes the plan will allow it to emit no carbon by 2038.

Note: The Delta and Gamma illustrations are freelancers and have no connection to Lancia whatsoever.

 2026 Lancia Gamma Will Offer A Hybrid Too After Stellantis Changes Course
Illustration Carscoops

Facelifted 2025 Opel Mokka Gets New Tech But Fewer Buttons

  • The Opel Mokka received its mid-lifecycle update, joining the new Frontera and Grandland SUVs.
  • Exterior changes are limited to the redesigned bumper and the slightly tweaked LED graphics.
  • Inside, the dual 10-inch displays are standard, with a new infotainment, and fewer buttons.

Opel has introduced a facelift for the Mokka four years after its debut in the competitive subcompact SUV segment. The model benefits from mild visual updates, and small improvements inside the cabin, including a new infotainment. The Mokka remains available in ICE, mild-hybrid, and fully electric forms.

Visually, it’s hard for the untrained eye to spot the differences with the outgoing Mokka, which was the first model to introduce Opel’s latest styling language before being rolled across the lineup. A closer look reveals a redesigned front bumper, which is said to improve aerodynamics, and the omission of the fog lights from the lower intake.

More: Vauxhall Sets Same Pricing For Frontera EV And ICE, A First

Opel designers also updated the LED graphics on the headlights and taillights, with three vertically-arranged blocks similar to the Frontera and Grandland. The covered grille, known as the “Opel Vizor”, integrates the new Blitz emblem. Furthermore, all of the chrome inserts are gone, with a renewed emphasis on black exterior accents.

Inside, the digital cockpit comprising dual 10-inch displays is now standard equipment, running a fresh infotainment. The latter features smartphone-like widgets, improved voice recognition, ChatGPT integration in the available navigation, and an optional 180-degree rearview camera.

The steering wheel has also been redesigned, as with the matte silver center console featuring a USB-C plug, fewer buttons, and Grandland-sourced switchgear.

 Facelifted 2025 Opel Mokka Gets New Tech But Fewer Buttons

The carry-over powertrain lineup starts with the non-electrified turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), sending power to the front wheels via a six-speed manual. The mild-hybrid version combines the same engine with a 28 hp (21 kW / 28 PS) electric motor housed within the six-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox.

Finally, the EV is the most powerful of the bunch with a 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS) electric motor, sourcing energy from a 54 kWh battery pack.

The facelifted Opel Mokka is available to order in Germany. Prices start at €26,740 ($28,843) for the ICE, €29,740 ($32,074) for the mild hybrid and €36,740 ($39,628) for the EV. This means that the entry-level version is €1,040 ($1,122) more expensive than the new Frontera, despite being smaller in size.

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Kia EV4: Everything You Need To Know About The Compact Electric Hatch

  • The Kia EV4 will come with 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh battery packs, offering different range options for buyers.
  • Kia will release the EV4 in both sedan and hatchback versions, expanding its appeal to a broader market.
  • Both single-motor and dual-motor configurations are expected, with an all-wheel-drive version also in development.

Update 11/9: Kia’s EV4 prototype has been spotted once again, this time putting in laps on the Nürburgring as the brand continues to refine its latest electric offering. Interestingly, the hatchback version of the EV4 has also been making cameo appearances stateside, raising some interesting questions about its broader market ambitions. That said, there’s still no official word on whether the hatchback model seen here will find its way to North American showrooms. Along with fresh spy photos, we’ve gathered new details on the EV4’s interior, production plans, and expected launch timeline.

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SB-Medien

What will it look like?

Kia has stripped away some of the bulky cladding and camouflage from its latest prototype of the EV4 compact hatch, providing us with an excellent opportunity to see the car’s production-spec bodywork in the flesh. As we’d long suspected, it looks extremely similar to the concept unveiled last year.

Oftentimes, concept cars are launched with crazy, over-the-top designs that are heavily diluted down for the road. That’s not the way Kia rolls, at least not in recent years. For example, the Kia EV9 shares most of its dramatic design with the concept that previewed it as do the smaller EV3 and EV5 SUVs. It’ll be the same with the EV4 that will be available in both hatchback and four-door sedan bodystyles, depending on the market.

More: Kia’s Affordable EV2 Small Electric SUV Spied Ahead Of 2026 Launch

 Kia EV4: Everything You Need To Know About The Compact Electric Hatch
Kia previewed the new EV4 series with the above concept last year.

The front end of this prototype scooped at the ‘Ring has a black lower grille and a set of dramatic headlights that run vertically and include bold LED daytime running lights. Viewed from the side, the EV looks almost identical to the concept and even rocks the same black and silver wheels designed to look like they’re triangular. The roofline of the road-going hatch model does appear to hit slightly higher than the concept, hence why the side windows stand a little taller.

Kia’s concept car looks continue across the rear fascia where there is a large spoiler stretching out from the roof. Interestingly, Kia is readying both sedan and hatch versions of the EV4, but only ever showcased a concept of the sedan. This means the rear fascia of this hatch prototype is much taller than the concept. Additionally, it also seems to have received a pair of bespoke taillights that’ll be different from those of the sedan version.

What about the interior?

 Kia EV4: Everything You Need To Know About The Compact Electric Hatch
The EV4 hatch will share the same dashboard as the sedan version pictured above (SH Proshots).

While we haven’t yet had the opportunity to peek inside the EV4 hatchback just yet, recent spy shots of the sedan version give us a good idea of what to anticipate. The dashboard leans heavily on the playbook established by Kia’s EV3 SUV sporting a massive glass panel that flows seamlessly from the driver’s side to the far edge of the center console.

This minimalist setup houses a dual-screen system, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a matching 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Sandwiched between these displays is a compact 5.3-inch climate control screen, delivering essential HVAC data without cluttering the design.

More: 2026 Kia EV4 Spied As An Affordable, Electric Sedan

Below this floating display panel lies a control strip with a touch-sensitive interface offering shortcuts to key functions like Home, Media, and Map. Breaking up the haptic monotony is a drum-style volume control, providing at least one point of tactile interaction in an otherwise screen-heavy setup. Expect features like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and likely ChatGPT-powered voice control making an appearance across the entire EV4 lineup.

 Kia EV4: Everything You Need To Know About The Compact Electric Hatch
SH Proshots

What about performance and range?

Beneath all that sharp sheet metal, the Kia EV4 is expected to ride on the Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform, the same advanced 800-volt architecture that underpins the EV3, EV6, and EV9. This distinguishes it from the EV5, which relies on the less sophisticated 400-volt N3 eK platform. The EV4 will share battery options with the EV3, offering 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh configurations, and at least 300 miles of range (+480 km).

In all likelihood, the EV4 will offer the same battery configurations as the EV3, with 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh options, and an entry-level version powered by a single electric motor pushing out 201 hp. A more muscular, dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant is also on the cards for those who need extra punch.

When will it go on sale?

Both the EV4 sedan and hatchback are set to make their world debut in the coming months, with a global rollout scheduled to begin in the second half of the year. However, some markets may have to wait until early 2026 to see the compact models. For the European market, production of the EV4 will take place at Kia’s upgraded manufacturing plant in Žilina, located in northwestern Slovakia.

The EV4 is part of a bigger EV plan

Kia has been aggressively expanding its electric vehicle lineup, with the EV4 being a key component in a much larger strategy. Under the company’s updated “Plan S,” Kia aims to launch 15 fully electric models and six new hybrids by 2027, cementing its place as a global EV contender. This plan spans everything from affordable urban vehicles to high-performance SUVs. Positioned in the middle of this range, the EV4 will provide a more accessible entry point to Kia’s electrified future, playing a pivotal role in the brand’s goal of selling 1.6 million eco-friendly vehicles annually by 2030.

Additional reporting by John Halas

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SH Proshots

Stellantis Drops SEMA EV Teaser And We’re Getting ’67 Plymouth GTX Vibes

  • Mopar’s latest teaser hints that its electric muscle car is based on the 1967 Plymouth GTX.
  • Little is known, but it appears the concept was originally made for last year’s show before Stellantis withdrew over UAW’s strike.
  • The video suggests a blend of retro muscle car design with modern electric performance technology.

Update 10/16: Update 10/16: With less than a month until the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, running from November 5 to 8, Mopar has dropped its third teaser for an electric muscle car. While still as cryptic as a fortune cookie, the teaser appears to confirm what some sharp-eyed commenters (props to you, Lee!) have speculated—it seems to be based on the ’67 Plymouth GTX or possibly one of its more modest siblings, the Plymouth Satellite or Belvedere. Either way, Mopar is clearly digging into the archives for this electric revival.

 Stellantis Drops SEMA EV Teaser And We’re Getting ’67 Plymouth GTX Vibes
The 1967 Plymouth GTX

The era of the electric muscle car is upon us, for better or worse. However, Stellantis isn’t resting on their laurels as the company has teased a new concept for the SEMA Show. While it’s natural to assume Dodge would want to showcase the Charger Daytona, that doesn’t appear to be the case. Instead, we could be looking at an electromod judging by the teaser image.

More: Stellantis Teases Electric Concept Car For SEMA 2023

That remains to be seen, but for now, Stellantis did pose an intriguing question: “What kind of future is there for a legendary muscle car? A concept from Mopar may reveal the answer.”

Besides that cryptic hint, the company released a picture that shows four circular lights and a classic grille. We can also see a ventilated hood and what appears to be chrome trim.

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Mopar is staying tight-lipped, but it looks like we’ll finally see the car that was bound for last year’s show. As you may recall, the brand dropped a teaser image in October of 2023 that appeared to show a second-generation Dodge Charger. The mystery model was slated to be unveiled at SEMA the following month, but Stellantis pulled out of the show due to mounting costs from the UAW strike.

The second time could be the charm, although history may repeat itself as the UAW is threatening to strike once again. In fact, they’re doing far more than that as UAW President Shawn Fain recently called on Stellantis to “shitcan” CEO Carlos Tavares for doing a “piss-poor” job.

 Stellantis Drops SEMA EV Teaser And We’re Getting ’67 Plymouth GTX Vibes
2023 teaser image
 Stellantis Drops SEMA EV Teaser And We’re Getting ’67 Plymouth GTX Vibes

2024 teaser image

Cupra Raval Is VW’s Answer To The Electric MINI

  • Cupra’s Raval subcompact has been spied testing for the first time ahead of a 2025 launch.
  • The junior EV is based on the same MEB Short platform as the VW ID.2 but arrives to market earlier.
  • A front-mounted 222 hp motor gets the Raval to 62 mph in 6.9 seconds and the bigger of two available batteries should give a 273-mile range.

Update 10/13: Our spies have captured another prototype of the Cupra Raval out on the streets, offering us an even closer look at the upcoming EV’s details.Additionally, we’ve gathered fresh information about the Raval’s top-spec performance variant, which could share its powertrain architecture with the VW ID GTI.

Cupra makes some of the best cars in the entire VW Group lineup, cars that are often more luxurious, faster, and more interesting to look at than their VW-badged cousins. And the little Cupra Raval EV, seen here in prototype form for the first time, wants to continue that trend.

The Raval is based on the same MEB Short platform VW will use for its ID.2, and Skoda will also slide under its own small EV. However, it’s Cupra that gets first dibs on the latest tech, with the Raval scheduled for a 2025 market launch, a few months ahead of the VW-badged ID.2, putting it slightly ahead of the curve in the EV race.

More: Here’s What We Know About The 2025 Cupra Raval

Even with this prototype’s busy disguise in place, it’s still possible to make out the arresting shapes we were first introduced to on the motorsport-influenced UrbanRebel concept in 2021. The design was later refined for a more production-ready concept of the same name in 2022, later renamed Raval.

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Photos Baldauf

The triangular headlights and similarly-shaped air intakes below them, the large lower grille, and the almost sports car-like slope to the hood are visible here, as is the concave panel on the hatch below the rear window and a small diffuser panel. Not so clear from these pictures, but seen previously in official images, is the way the bodywork twists between the front and rear wheels, giving a pinched-waist effect and making the Raval look far more dynamic than the ID.2.

Powertrain Options

Unlike current MEB-based VW products like the ID.3 and ID.4 whose single-motor variants place their powertrain at the back, the MEB Short cars have a more traditional front-engine, front-wheel drive layout. Cupra talks about a base model having the same 223 hp (166 kW / 226 PS) as VW’s ID.2 concept and being able to rip to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.9 seconds. We understand Cupra will serve up 38 and 56 kWh battery options, the bigger one sufficient for a 273-mile (440 km) range.

Cupra is also reportedly working on a hotter, performance-focused version of the Raval, which will likely share its powertrain components with the upcoming VW ID GTI, expected in 2026. In concept form, the GTI showcased a dual-motor setup capable of 340 horsepower (250 kW), with an overboost function pushing it to a wild 435 hp (320 kW), though it’s unlikely the production models will retain such extreme figures.

Instead, the performance Raval could see power hover close to the 300 hp mark, potentially allowing it to sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in closer to 5 seconds. Additionally, this sportier version could come equipped with enhanced suspension tuning and larger brakes, providing the handling and stopping power needed to match its increased performance. This would make the performance Raval not just a stylish urban EV, but also a legitimate competitor among hot hatches in its class.

Pricing and Availability

Expected to be priced at around €25,000 ($28k), the Raval will be manufactured in Spain and marketed primarily in Europe, along with select other regions. However, it won’t be part of Cupra’s expansion into the U.S., as the brand plans to focus on SUVs and crossovers for its American lineup.

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Images: SH Proshots

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