Mercedes is developing a two-door concept previewing its next design direction.
Gorden Wagener says it draws inspiration from the Vision Maybach 6 concepts.
The debut date remains unannounced, though it could be revealed any day.
Mercedes is nearly ready to unveil a new concept car that could resurrect the spirit of the long-departed S-Class Coupe and Cabriolet. The unnamed model has already appeared in official teasers, flaunting a massive light-up grille and a classic two-door coupe shape that feels like Benz trying to remind everyone it still knows how to do glamour.
The brand’s design chief, Gorden Wagener, dropped a few hints about the upcoming debut on Instagram. He called the mystery model “the shape of things to come” and said the new grille first shown in Munich was “the spark for a creative impulse”
One of the teaser shots captures the car’s front three-quarter angle, mostly shrouded in darkness. Even so, the details are telling: slim headlights with star-shaped LED graphics, a deep front splitter, and large, black-finished alloy wheels.
The grille, fully illuminated and completely enclosed, points strongly toward an electric powertrain under the sculpted bonnet.
Another teaser zooms in on the car’s swollen rear arches, confirming its two-door coupe layout. The door handles sit unusually close to the side gills, hinting at rear-hinged doors and frameless windows.
The company has offered a fleeting look at the cabin, bathed in blue light and lined with materials that seem plucked from a bespoke atelier. The styling nods to the Art Deco era, pairing intricate details with a modern layout.
Earlier Instagram posts by Wagener cited the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Coupé and Cabriolet concepts as sources of inspiration for the upcoming model. Those show cars, unveiled at Pebble Beach in 2016 and 2017, remain some of the brand’s most memorable recent design statements, even if they never reached production.
Rumors about the return of a flagship coupe in the Mercedes lineup first sparked earlier this year when the company trademarked a pair of two-door S-Class models in Maybach and AMG forms.
However, these were based on the current generation of the S-Class sedan, which is expected to undergo a facelift next year. The next generation model, expected closer to the decade’s end, should offer both internal-combustion and battery-electric powertrains.
Whether this new concept is merely a design study or a genuine preview of what’s to come remains uncertain. But if the teasers are any indication, Mercedes isn’t done exploring the art of the grand coupe just yet.
Daihatsu teases the Midget X concept, reviving the spirit of the original.
The compact LCV pairs a three-seat cabin with a flexible cargo configuration.
It features an electric powertrain and debuts at the Japan Mobility Show.
Daihatsu joins Toyota’s larger showcase at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, taking part in a series of concept car debuts that highlight each brand’s vision for the future. Among them is the Midget X, a fully electric concept designed to bring one of Daihatsu’s classic nameplates into a new era.
The Midget is a pint-sized workhorse with a big personality. Born in 1957 as a tiny three-wheeler for shopkeepers and delivery drivers, it zipped through Japan’s narrow streets with motorcycle-like agility.
The model returned in 1996 as the Midget II, blending nostalgic styling with a can-do spirit. Production ended in 2001, but it seems Daihatsu isn’t quite ready to let the story end there.
A Tiny Classic Recharged
The Midget X concept appeared in a short teaser ahead of its official debut in Tokyo later this month. Now, the model has been reborn as a tiny LCV with an electric powertrain.
Its exterior design nods to the original Midget lineage, featuring round LED headlights and a helicopter-style windshield. It also has semi-exposed wheels with integrated lights and a battery charge indicator on the profile.
Inside, the cabin adopts a central driving position with an unconventional steering wheel flanked by two passenger seats. The concept shown includes a backpack-style storage compartment and an extended rear bed, although more variants could follow. Another cool feature is the rotational handle design for the rear hinged doors.
Daihatsu
Daihatsu hasn’t released technical specifications yet, only noting that “because it’s small, it can fit into a variety of lifestyles,” and that the company “aims to make everyone happy.”
Carrying the Torch
The Midget X stands as the next chapter in Daihatsu’s story, carrying forward the legacy of some of its most influential models. Among them are the original Midget three-wheeler, the fourth-generation Hijet LCV, the first-gen Charade hatchback, the sporty Mira TR-XX, the Copen roadster, the second-gen Tanto kei car, and the Nibako mobility service that transforms LCVs into mobile shops.
For now, the Midget X remains a concept. Even so, it wouldn’t be surprising if it eventually transitions into a production model, potentially for both Japan and export markets. More details will follow once the Japan Mobility Show opens its doors, and we’ll update this story as soon as new information becomes available
The LS Concept is a new take on Lexus’ flagship with a minivan bodystyle.
It features six wheels, a fully electric setup, and a spacious three-row interior.
Akio Toyoda confirmed the team is serious about developing it for production.
Just a few weeks ago, Lexus declared the end of its long-serving LS sedan. Yet, as Mark Twain might have dryly noted, reports of its death have been greatly exaggerated. The brand has revived the nameplate not with another stately four-door, but with something far stranger.
The long-running luxury sedan gives way to something altogether different, a six-wheeled electric minivan with three rows of seats and a distinctly experimental air. The once-conventional LS badge now fronts a concept that feels futuristic, if slightly absurd.
Six Wheels and a Statement
Yet that’s not even the wildest part. After all, it is a concept. What’s really unexpected is that the company plans to evolve it into a production vehicle, though plenty of development still lies ahead before that becomes reality.
The official teaser is titled “Discover” and signals a new era for Lexus. It shows the profile of the LS Concept, wearing a set of large front wheels and two smaller pairs at the rear.
The concept adopts a single-box minivan silhouette with tiny overhangs and a generous wheelbase. Overall, it looks bigger than the LM, which is based on the Toyota Alphard/Vellfire.
Besides its unusual wheel arrangement, highlights include vertical LED headlights and taillights that stretch into the sides, along with an illuminated roof fin. A wide sliding door opens to reveal a roomy cabin with soft lighting and a six-seat, three-row configuration.
Not Just A Concept Car
While a six-wheeled minivan sounds too wild for production, Chairman Akio Toyoda insists this is more than a design exercise. In a message from two years ago, he challenged the team to reinvent the Lexus flagship:
“If you think of the LS as a BEV chauffeur car, wouldn’t it become a new pillar of Lexus, with a new package that no one has ever thought of? Lexus doesn’t copy anyone else, so that’s the motto, so please start thinking about it...The LM is an evolution of the Alphard, after all, but… Will it evolve further from the LM, or… a completely new form.“
From Luxury Sedan to Luxury Space
The LS nameplate was originally conceived as an acronym for “Luxury Sedan”, but Toyoda now translates it to “Luxury Space”, opening the door for a three-row BEV interpretation. The aim is to create a chauffeured experience that still feels airy and open, even with six occupants on board.
When asked whether the concept will reach production, Toyoda initially hedged: “No, I’m not sure if they can do that yet.” Later, though, he added, “It is still a long way off but everyone is serious about it. So I’m sure it will definitely come true.”
The team’s current challenges involve achieving the trademark quietness and ride comfort expected from a Lexus, while also making the vehicle practical for the road. When asked if six wheels meant a 6WD system, Toyota’s head of design simply replied, “Maybe.”
Toyoda also wants the brand to “demolish the spindle grille for a while,” saying it has “no potential for development.” Designers are now exploring ways to “assimilate the spindle throughout the entire body” instead, signaling a new design philosophy for the marque.
The Lexus LS Concept will be fully unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show 2025. What remains uncertain is whether the team can turn it into a viable replacement for the aging LS sedan. The current LS is expected to end production next year, with Lexus confirming its departure from the US market.
Yet even if Lexus manages to bring the six-wheeled concept to life, its real-world prospects will vary by region. Luxurious minivans have a strong foothold in Asian markets such as China and Japan, but North America is a different story altogether. There’s also the question of where this new concept leaves the LM, Lexus’ existing premium minivan, which already caters to a similar clientele.
Toyota will unveil a Corolla-branded concept at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show.
The electric sedan features sharp styling cues and full-width LED lighting.
It will debut alongside several concepts designed for diverse mobility solutions.
Toyota has shared new details about its broad lineup for the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2025, promising a varied selection of premieres across its range. Taking the spotlight is a new concept that appears to preview the next chapter for one of the brand’s best-selling and longest-standing nameplates, the Corolla.
The concept made its first appearance in a teaser campaign called “To You, Toyota,” setting the tone for its full debut in Tokyo later this month. At first glance, it bears little resemblance to the current 12th-generation of the Corolla.
Instead, it features crisp, modern lines and proportions more in tune with an electric vehicle, hinting at a new design direction for the familiar compact, much like Toyota achieved with the latest generation of the Prius.
A Sharp Exterior Design
The front end introduces a refined take on Toyota’s hammerhead design, with full-width LED headlights merging horizontal and vertical lighting signatures. Gone is the traditional grille, replaced by a narrow lower intake on the bumper and a subtle vent at the base of the windshield.
From the profile, the car presents itself as a sleek four-door sedan that could carry forward the Corolla nameplate. The front fenders appear to host a charging port beside a new vertical accent beneath the mirrors. Other notable features include a descending window line, sculpted side panels, and conventional door handles.
Toyota
The rear view is defined by a clean, integrated ducktail spoiler extending from the sloping roof. Sharp shoulders lead to full-width taillights with pixel-like illumination, and “Corolla” lettering sits across the flat tailgate. The rear bumper adds some depth with a sculpted finish and centered license plate placement.
Toyota has yet to share any specific details about the concept’s powertrain.
More Concepts in the Spotlight
Beyond the main reveal, Toyota is also teasing a collection of other intriguing concepts. Among them are colorful, futuristic vehicles intended for children, a tennis-capable mobility device for people with disabilities, spider-like transporters for moving goods, and a minimalist cab-over pickup envisioned for developing markets.
All of these will take their place at Toyota’s stand when the Japan Mobility Show opens on October 30. The company also confirmed announcements for its GR, Lexus, Century, and Daihatsu sub-brands, which will be explored in separate reports.
Leapmotor D19 is a new flagship SUV debuting globally on October 16.
It will offer both fully electric and range-extender hybrid powertrains.
The large SUV targets premium rivals with high-tech features and style.
Leapmotor, the Chinese EV manufacturer partly owned by Stellantis, continues to expand its lineup into new segments. Fresh off the debut of the B05/Lafa 5 hatchback last month, the company is now teasing its new flagship SUV, the D19. Scheduled for an official debut on October 16, the D19 is promising to deliver premium features and cutting-edge tech at an accessible price point.
The official teasers highlight the shape of the full-size SUV and its lighting signature, with slim DRLs up front and a full-width LED bar at the rear. That said, photos of the model have already surfaced on Chinese social media.
Big SUV Energy
In terms of proportions, the D19 lines up with other full-size electrified SUVs from China such as the Li Auto L9, Dongfeng Yipai 008, Chery Fulwin T11, GAC Trumpchi S9, Zeekr 9X, Nio Onvo L90, and Geely Galaxy M9.
One of the most distinctive design elements is the thick chrome trim that wraps around the side windows and obscures the D-pillar, giving it a Rolls-Royce Cullinan meets Mercedes-Maybach GLS vibe.
It also features split headlights, clean body surfacing, and chrome-finished disc wheels that further echo styling cues from Rolls-Royce and Maybach. At around 5.2 meters (204.7 inches) in length, the D19 is roughly the same size as a BMW X7 or a Mercedes GLS.
We haven’t seen the interior yet, but it’s expected to feature an advanced digital cockpit with a dedicated passenger display, along with high-quality materials throughout the cabin. The D19 will reportedly run on dual Qualcomm Snapdragon 8797 chipsets, one handling infotainment, the other powering the ADAS suite. Leaked images also show a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor.
While full technical specifications haven’t been released, the D19 will be offered with both fully electric and range-extender hybrid powertrains. The battery-electric version is expected to offer a CLTC range of over 630 km (392 miles), while the extended-range version should cover more than 1,300 km (808 miles) between charging and refueling stops.
How Much Will It Cost?
Perhaps most noteworthy is the pricing. Leapmotor has suggested a starting price between ¥250,000 and ¥300,000, which converts to around $35,000 to $42,000. And yes, that figure sounds like a bargain for anyone trying to buy a car in the West these days.
In fact, that’s roughly what you’d pay for a hybrid Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V in the States, or, worse still, a mid-level Toyota Yaris Cross if you happen to live in Germany. And that’s not even getting into the more painful pricing realities in other parts of Europe.
Even so, you might be surprised to learn that the D19 won’t be the cheapest in its class. The Geely Galaxy M9 undercuts it with a current starting price of ¥173,800 ($24,400), thanks to discounts.
When it launches later this year, the D19 will sit above the T03, B01, B10, C01, C10, C11, and C16, making it the new range-topper in Leapmotor’s domestic lineup. Spy shots have also hinted at a flagship minivan currently in development, which may share the same platform as the D19.
On September 25, Leapmotor announced that its one millionth vehicle had rolled off the production line. The automaker reaffirmed its commitment to “fully in-house R&D” and its goal of becoming a “respected, world-class smart electric vehicle company.”
2027 Renault 5 Turbo 3E made its dynamic debut at the Tour de Corse.
547-hp electric hyper hatch impressed with its pace and retro presence.
Fans loved the looks but mocked it for its completely silent powertrain.
Renault might not have a single performance model in its current range right now, but the company was crazy enough to create the R5 Turbo 3E, a fully electric, limited-production hyper hatch that channels the spirit of the 1980s classic.
The electric hatch made its first public run at the historic Tour de Corse rally on the French island of Corsica, giving us a taste of its tire-burning capabilities. However, it also attracted negative comments for an unexpected reason; its near-total silence.
The demonstration marked 40 years since Jean Ragnotti’s 1985 Tour de Corse victory with the legendary Maxi 5 Turbo. That car inspired the prototype’s striking livery, blending blue with red and white graphics that stand out against the R5 Turbo 3E’s angular form.
The new model was driven by Renault ambassador Julien Saunier, who also took part in the rally’s historic class behind the wheel of the original mid-engined rally car. “It’s a true rallying beast,” he said. “I was blown away by the acceleration, which doesn’t fade when you gather speed, the braking that’s ultra-powerful yet easy to modulate, and its ability to perform spectacular but controlled drifts. I
Overwhelming Looks, Underwhelming Sound
Two advanced prototypes were shown in Corsica as part of ongoing development and fine-tuning ahead of production, which begins in 2027. Beyond rally stages, the EV demonstrated its agility before a crowd at the port of Calvi, with Saunier performing 360- and 180-degree spins that highlighted the rear-wheel-drive layout, compact dimensions, and hydraulic handbrake.
While Renault’s official footage was cut to music, a short clip posted by Autocar on Instagram revealed a different story. The Turbo 3E’s electric powertrain is so quiet that only tire squeal and gravel pinging off the underbody could be heard.
One viewer joked, “My phone was on mute. I turned on the sound and it feels the same as before,” while another asked, “Where is the turbo?”
Many comments centered on the absence of engine noise, with one suggesting that even an artificial soundtrack would “immensely improve” the experience. Others went further, calling for Renault to add a combustion engine or at least a hybrid system to restore some of the original R5’s spirit.
Not Your Average Hot Hatch
The R5 Turbo 3E is not a beefed-up version of the production R5 E-Tech, but a bespoke “mini-supercar” engineered with the help of Alpine. This is evident in the exterior design, combining an ultra-wide stance and modern LEDs with retro cues from its predecessor.
The EV rides on a new chassis made of aluminum with a carbon superstructure. It fitted with dual in-wheel electric motors mounted at the rear, delivering a combined 547 hp (408 kW / 555 PS). That output allows a sprint from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in under 3.5 seconds.
It features double-wishbone suspension and a near-ideal 43/57 front-to-rear weight distribution. A 70 kWh battery provides a WLTP range of more than 400 km (249 miles) and can recharge from 15 to 80 percent in just 15 minutes.
Renault
You Can Still Buy One
Renault will build 1,980 units of the R5 Turbo 3E between 2027 and 2029, with around 1,000 already reserved. The electric hyper hatch is priced at €160,000 (equal to $185,000 at current exchange rates) and is available in Europe, the UK, the Middle East, Japan, and Australia.
From early 2026, prospective buyers will be able to personalize their Turbo 3E with help from Renault’s design team. Options will include historic racing liveries or more restrained “gentleman driver” themes, while the cabin can be customized with various materials and color combinations. Final specifications will be confirmed in the first half of 2027 before deliveries begin later that year.
Michael Grosjean, Renault 5 Turbo 3E Project Manager said:
“This incredible project has sparked a huge sense of excitement, not only internally but also among the public, with 500 reservations in the first three days! … We’re now keen to move on to the next stage, which will be to show customers the personalisation programme that we’ve put together for them. It promises to be a detailed and highly attractive line-up!”
Renault officials have hinted that the R5 Turbo 3E could be followed by other limited-production specials celebrating key moments from the brand’s past.
Nissan previewed the updated Ariya before its debut at the Japan Mobility Show.
The EV features a grille-less face, a new infotainment, and upgraded suspension.
Fourth-generation Elgrand hybrid minivan will also premiere at the same event.
Like they say, life goes on. While the Nissan Ariya may be on its way out of the U.S. lineup after the 2025 model year, a refreshed version has just broken cover in Japan. The facelifted electric crossover will be unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, where it will share the spotlight with the next-generation Elgrand minivan and several other new arrivals.
Originally introduced in 2020, the Ariya didn’t enter production until 2022. Three years on, Nissan has decided it’s time for a thorough update to keep the electric SUV looking fresh against an ever-growing list of rivals.
New Looks and Tech
The most noticeable change is the redesigned front end, which adopts a cleaner, grille-free appearance paired with Leaf-inspired LED headlights. The bumper has been reworked for a simpler look that drops the previous side intakes, while the lower intake gains a more restrained shape. The fog lights have quietly disappeared as well, streamlining the overall design.
The profile is carried over, but the five spoke alloy wheels have gained a new texture, combined with a fresh color option for the exterior. Nissan didn’t share photos of the rear end, where we expect more subtle updates.
Besides the new looks, the Ariya will gain a Google-powered infotainment, Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, and a revised suspension setup “tailored for Japanese roads”. There is no word on any changes to the electric powertrain options and battery packs.
Underneath, a revised suspension setup tuned specifically for Japanese roads aims to deliver a more composed and comfortable drive. So far, Nissan hasn’t mentioned any updates to the electric powertrain or battery options.
The refreshed Ariya will reach Japanese showrooms later in the fiscal year. Whether it returns to the U.S. market for the 2027 model year remains uncertain.
The facelifted Nissan Ariya (above) and the teasers for the next-generation Elgrand (below).
The Next-Gen Elgrand Steps Forward
Another major highlight of Nissan’s Tokyo showcase will be the all-new, fourth-generation Elgrand. Previewed through earlier teasers, the new model takes inspiration from the futuristic-looking 2023 Hyper Tourer concept.
At the front, it features a sculpted nose with pixel-like LEDs and body-colored elements blending with its covered grille. We can also see it has sliding doors, more curves on its boxy silhouette, and full-width taillights.
Under the skin, the Elgrand will use Nissan’s third-generation e-Power hybrid setup. This combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine that acts purely as a generator with electric motors driving the wheels, resulting in smooth, quiet performance and improved efficiency.
The new hybrid configuration positions the Elgrand to compete more directly with the Toyota Alphard. Nissan also promises an upgraded interior with enhanced comfort, finer materials, and more advanced driver-assistance technology.
The market launch of the all-new Elgrand is expected in 2026. The previous generations debuted in 1997, 2002, and 2010 respectively.
Expanding Mobility Concepts
In addition to its production vehicles, Nissan will present an autonomous mobility service prototype based on the Serena minivan. The pilot program begins in November near Nissan’s Yokohama headquarters, aiming to test transport solutions for Japan’s aging population.
The brand’s booth will also feature a full roster of vehicles, including the newly launched Leaf, the next-generation Roox kei car, the recently facelifted X-Trail Rock Creek, the Fairlady Z, and the upcoming 2026 Skyline 400R Limited Edition.
Furthermore, visitors will be able to check out the Micra EV subcompact hatchback from Europe, the N7 electric sedan from China, and the Patrol flagship SUV from the Middle East. Finally, Nissan will showcase the GEN3 Formula E car from Season 11 that helped win the driver’s championship title.
The Japan Mobility Show 2025 will be held at the Tokyo Big Sight between October 31 and November 9. However, Nissan’s press conference will be livestreamed on the first media day that takes place on October 29.
Ferrari reveals first details about its first electric GT launching in spring 2026.
The EV will use quad electric motors across two e-axles for over 986 horses.
It will feature a 122 kWh battery, 48V active suspension, and amplified sound.
Ferrari’s first electric car is almost here, and somewhere in Italy, a thousand purists are already typing their thinkpieces. The all-new electric GT is scheduled for a world debut in the summer of 2026, marking a major step in the brand’s evolution. Ahead of that, Ferrari has shared new details revealing the first details of its upcoming electric grand tourer codenamed Elettrica.
The zero-emission model is expected to deliver a combined output exceeding 986 hp (735 kW / 1,000 PS), supported by advanced chassis technology, a distinctive electric sound, and a large high-density battery capable of more than 530 km (329 miles) of range.
According to Maranello, all of the main components of the EV have been developed and manufactured in-house, ensuring it delivers “peerless levels of performance”.
Powertrain and Performance
The Elettrica will be powered by four electric motors. The front e-axle, taken from the F80 hypercar, produces 282 hp (210 kW / 286 PS), while the rear motors add another 831 hp (620 kW / 843 PS). In boost mode, total output rises above 986 hp (735 kW / 1,000 PS).
With that setup, the car will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in 2.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 310 km/h (193 mph).
Drivers will be able to choose from three modes named Range, Tour, and Performance, depending on the conditions. The Torque Shift Engagement system offers five selectable levels of power and torque using the right paddle, while the left paddle adjusts braking intensity.
A New Kind of Sound
Ferrari’s approach to the Elettrica’s sound moves away from artificial engine simulation. Instead, a sensor mounted on the inverter detects the powertrain’s real mechanical vibrations, which are then amplified to create what the company describes as a natural, evolving tone that reflects how the car is being driven.
Behind that concept is Antonio Palermo, Ferrari’s head of sound and vibration. In an interview with Top Gear, Palermo, who describes himself as a guitarist at heart, said his 20-person engineering team approached the car’s electric frequencies like musical notes, shaping them through amplifiers rather than speakers.
Their goal wasn’t to imitate the sound of a traditional Ferrari engine but to create something authentic and entirely new.
An accelerometer captures the motors’ natural resonance, which is then amplified inside the cabin to create a reactive soundtrack. Palermo calls it “language and connection,” a way to keep drivers emotionally engaged with the car without resorting to synthetic gimmicks.
Each tone shifts with torque and speed, turning mechanical pulses into a soundscape that rises and fades with intent. Push harder, and the Elettrica builds to a natural crescendo; ease off, and it slips into near silence.
Needless to say, how convincing this synthesized feedback will feel in practice remains to be seen, as much of Ferrari’s allure has traditionally rested on the emotional impact of its combustion engines.
Power Beneath the Surface
The battery is integrated into the floorpan, lowering the center of gravity by 80 mm (3.2 inches) compared with an equivalent combustion model. It has a capacity of 122 kWh and an energy density of 195 Wh/kg, which Ferrari claims is the highest among production EVs.
The system also features an advanced cooling system and supports ultra-fast DC charging of up to 350 kW. The Italian automaker is confident that the range will exceed 530 km (329 miles).
Ferrari has not revealed the Elettrica’s final design, but test cars suggest a four-door, four-seat grand tourer layout, similar in spirit to the V12-powered Purosangue.
The body and chassis are constructed from 75% recycled aluminium, with design principles inspired by the company’s mid- and rear-engine berlinettas. The wheelbase measures 2,960 mm (116.5 inches), with short overhangs and a driving position set close to the front wheels.
The EV is also the first Ferrari to feature a separate rear subframe, designed to reduce vibration and noise entering the cabin.
It will use the brand’s 48V active suspension system, already fitted to the Purosangue and F80, promising to offer both comfort and precise body control. Buyers can choose from five tire options developed by three suppliers. At 2,300 kg (5,070 pounds), it will be the heaviest Ferrari ever built.
The world premiere of Ferrari’s first EV is scheduled for spring 2026, with an early preview of the interior expected next year. Production will take place at the new “E-Building” facility in Maranello, created specifically for electric and hybrid vehicles.
Japan gets its own version of the new Nissan Leaf with a range-topping Autech trim.
It features a sportier bodykit, unique 19-inch wheels, and a more premium interior.
Autech variant doesn’t bring any performance or chassis upgrades over the standard EV.
The latest generation of the Nissan Leaf has arrived in Japan, marking its official launch in the brand’s home market after making its first appearance in North America earlier this year.
The all-electric fastback crossover retains much of its global character but introduces a few domestic-market distinctions, including an Autech edition that leans more toward a sportier, higher-end feel, within the practical and monetary constraints of the category.
At 4,360 mm (171.7 inches) long, the Japanese Leaf is 44 mm (1.7 inches) shorter than the version sold in the United States. Like its European counterpart, it omits amber indicators, while the rest of the design remains the same. Only the range-topping model gets the distinctive Z-inspired LED taillights, which lend a sharper look to the rear end
Inside, the Japanese Leaf comes equipped with twin 12.3-inch displays, though it skips the larger 14.3-inch setup offered elsewhere. What it lacks in screen size, it makes up for in equipment, featuring an optional dimming panoramic glass roof, a 10-speaker Bose Plus Sound System, and V2H (Vehicle to Home) capability.
Autech Adds Visual Drama
Nissan’s in-house Autech division has given the Leaf a sportier presence. The bespoke bodykit introduces a prominent splitter with aluminum accents that continue across the side inserts, mirror caps, and rear skirt. A black grille, blue daytime running lights, unique bumper detailing, and Autech badging round out the looks.
Nissan
The Leaf Autech also sits on exclusive 19-inch aluminum wheels and can be specified in Deep Ocean Blue paired with a Super Black roof. Buyers can also choose from Prism White with Super Black or a full Midnight Black finish.
As with most Autech models, the dark-themed interior is more premium than the standard Leaf. It stands out thanks to the black upholstery with blue stitching and piping. It also comes with a unique pattern and Autech embroidery on the seats, special seatbelts, and branded floor mats.
Even without the larger dual-screen cockpit seen in other markets, equipment levels remain generous, including cold-weather amenities such as heated rear seats.
Specifications And Range
At launch, the Japanese Leaf is available exclusively in B7 form, offered in two trims, X and G. Power comes from a single electric motor producing 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 355 Nm (261.8 lb-ft) of torque, sent to the front wheels. The Autech variant shares this setup, meaning there are no added performance or chassis tweaks beyond its sharper styling.
The 78 kWh battery promises an impressive 702 km (436 miles) of range under the WLTC cycle, which tends to be more optimistic than Europe’s WLTP (604 km / 375 miles) and America’s EPA estimate (488 km / 303 miles).
An entry-level B5 model, with a smaller battery and less power, will join the range later, along with a corresponding Autech version for those wanting the look without the higher spec.
Pricing
Pricing for the Japanese-market Leaf starts at ¥5,188,700 (around $34,000) for the B7 X trim, rising to ¥5,999,400 ($39,300) for the top-spec B7 G. The Autech commands a higher entry price at ¥6,513,100 ($42,700), with optional extras pushing it higher still. Deliveries across Japan are expected to begin in early 2026.
Suzuki Vision e-Sky previews an electric kei car for 2026 with 168-mile range.
It will debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 alongside various new models.
The lineup also features motorcycles, robots, and alternative-fuel vehicles.
Interest in small EVs continues to grow, and this year’s Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo looks set to highlight how compact design and electric efficiency can go hand in hand. Suzuki’s lineup for 2025 brings that idea to life with a mix of concept and production models.
The company’s showcase is headlined by the world premiere of the Vision e-Sky concept, a preview of a fully electric kei car that will enter production in the near future.
Compact Optimism
According to the company, the minicar is designed for daily commuting and short weekend trips. It follows the theme of “Unique, Smart, Positive” and aims to evoke a “cheerful” mood. It also appears to be the first vehicle to adopt Suzuki’s redesigned logo, featuring a flatter design and a matte aluminum finish.
The Vision e-Sky adopts a hatchback silhouette with a short hood, minimal overhangs, a floating roof, and clean surfacing. The C-shaped LED headlights are combined with an illuminated grille and matching taillights. It rides on futuristic aero-style wheel covers and features flush door handles, although these might change for production.
In line with kei car packaging regulations, the EV measures 3,395 mm (133.7 inches) long, 1,475 mm (58.1 inches) wide, and 1,625 mm (64 inches) tall. Suzuki didn’t reveal the specifications of the electric motor or the battery pack but promises a driving range of over 270 km (168 miles) between charges.
Suzuki
The interior looks close to production status. It features a digital cockpit, a floating center tunnel, ambient lighting, and a dashboard that doubles as a tray. We can also see touch-sensitive A/C controls, a futuristic steering wheel with integrated buttons, and new seats with purple headrests.
The production version of the Vision e-Sky will arrive within the Japanese fiscal year 2026, which ends on March 31, 2027. As with the rest of Suzuki’s kei car lineup, sales will most likely be limited in Japan.
Other Exhibits
The Vision e-Sky will be joined by several two- and four-wheel vehicles, along with robots, micro-mobility solutions and outboard motors from Suzuki’s product lineup.
Among the automobiles we find the e Every Concept, an electric kei van with a 200 km (124-mile) range. First shown in 2023, it will soon evolve into a production model alongside the identical Daihatsu Hijet and Toyota Pixis Van.
Suzuki will also display the Fronx FFV Concept, powered by ethanol, and the Vitoris CBG that runs on CNG. As for production vehicles, visitors will be able to check out the new Suzuki XBee, along with the Spacia, e-Vitara, and Jimny Nomad.
Suzuki
Two Wheels and More
In the two-wheel segment, Suzuki will showcase a fully electric version of the classic VanVan motorcycle updated with modern styling cues and LED lighting.
It will be joined by the e-Address production electric scooter, the DR-Z4SM supermoto, the retro-flavored GSX-8T and GSX-8TT production motorcycles, the GSX-R1000R superbike, the ethanol-powered GIXXER SF 250 FFV, a hydrogen-powered version of the Burgman, and the e-PO folding electric bicycle.
The company will also display a range of mobility solutions, some of which are evolved versions of earlier 2023 concepts. These include the MOQBA 2, a four-legged platform that can carry people or products, the SUZU-RIDE 2, a four-wheeled personal mobility scooter, and the Glydways, an autonomous pod designed for car sharing.
Finally, the MITRA concept is a tiny four-wheeled electric vehicle with AI tech designed to serve as undercarriage for a variety of robots.
The Japan Mobility Show 2025 will open its doors to the public from October 24 to November 3 at the Tokyo Big Sight convention center in the Ariake district.
CCTV footage shows a Xiaomi sedan moving on its own as the owner chases it.
Xiaomi confirmed the EV received a valid remote parking command via phone.
The owner later verified that the company’s official explanation was accurate.
A video of a Xiaomi SU7 sedan seemingly taking itself for a spin went viral over the weekend in China, sparking safety concerns. The internet was quick to imagine hacked cars and rogue AI, but Xiaomi quickly shut down the drama, claiming that the mysterious drive was simply triggered by a remote command from the owner’s Apple iPhone.
The incident took place on September 30, when the owner, identified as Li Xiaoshuang, parked his light blue SU7 outside a store in the city of Weihai. Minutes later, while he was inside the shop with a woman, the car began to creep forward with no one behind the wheel. Realizing what was happening, Li rushed outside and sprinted after his runaway EV.
A Confusing Start
After sharing the surveillance footage, the owner contacted Xiaomi’s customer service to report the car’s strange behavior. The representative informed him that the EV had received a remote command from a device labeled “iPhone 16.2.” The owner, however, insisted he hadn’t touched his phone nor did he own an iPhone 16 and provided the video as proof.
The mix-up was later clarified when engineers confirmed that “16.2” wasn’t referring to a newer iPhone model at all, but to the internal identifier Apple assigns to the owner’s iPhone 15 Pro Max. Likewise, an iPhone 16 Pro also linked to the vehicle, belonging to the woman seen in the video, appeared under the code “17.1.”
Technical Verification
After reviewing the EV’s data logs and the smartphones’ activity records, Xiaomi engineers confirmed that the car had, in fact, received a valid remote parking command from the owner’s iPhone at that exact moment. The company also verified that every system operated correctly.
The company issued a formal apology for the misunderstanding and thanked the owner for cooperating in the investigation. They also emphasized that all vehicle systems operated as intended. The owner eventually acknowledged Xiaomi’s findings after witnessing the data verification himself, and urged others to stop spreading false claims about software bugs or hacks.
Accidental Commands, Real Consequences
So what could have triggered the remote parking command without the owner realizing it? The most likely explanation is that the feature was unintentionally activated through the iPhone app or its voice assistant.
Still, the idea that a simple tap or phrase can send a two-ton machine rolling on its own should give manufacturers pause. As cars become more like smartphones on wheels, it might be time for automakers to impose tighter safeguards on how these systems talk to each other, rather than assuming every “smart” feature is foolproof.
Below you’ll find the official statements from both Xiaomi and the owner.
Xiaomi’s Official Statement
Regarding the recent online video of a Xiaomi car suddenly driving away, we attach great importance to this incident and immediately established a special task force to investigate and collaborate with the user to verify the situation.
Both parties verified the user’s authorized mobile app operation logs and vehicle data, reaching a consensus: “The vehicle’s backend data matches the iPhone 15 Pro Max’s operation logs, response times, and vehicle exit commands, ruling out any vehicle quality issues.”
During the investigation, with the user’s consent, we obtained vehicle backend data and operation logs from two phones with vehicle control permissions: the female owner’s iPhone 16 Pro and the male owner’s iPhone 15 Pro Max, with corresponding device model identifiers of iPhone 17.1 and iPhone 16.2, respectively.
The vehicle’s backend data shows that during the time window described by the user, the vehicle received a parking assist command from the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which activated the parking assist feature (activation requires the vehicle to be within close range of the phone’s Bluetooth connection) and initiated the exit.
When contacting online customer service regarding the user’s feedback, they stated that the parking assist command originated from an iPhone 16. We have verified that our online customer service representative confused the device model identifier (iPhone 16,2) with the corresponding device model (iPhone 15 Pro Max) during communication with the user, leading to misunderstanding and miscommunication. We apologize for this and will continue to improve our service efforts.
Xiaomi Auto always prioritizes user safety and user experience. Thank you for your attention and support.
Owner’s Response:
I am the owner of the vehicle in question. The above information is true. The Xiaomi Auto team has verified the data with me in person and confirmed it is correct. Thank you for your professionalism and service. Please refrain from spreading rumors. Thank you.
A viral Reddit post reveals a new Stellantis SUV without a touchscreen.
The entry-level Edition trim of the Opel Frontera skips the display.
Dacia, Citroen, and Fiat also omit screens in their base trim models.
While carmakers keep tripping over themselves to pack ever-bigger screens and overcomplicated digital gimmicks into their cabins, a handful of budget models seem content to sit that trend out. One Reddit user in Germany stirred a discussion after noticing that the entry-level version of a Stellantis SUV doesn’t have an infotainment system or touchscreen of any kind and, unsurprisingly, their post went viral.
The model in question is the Opel Frontera, a revived nameplate that shares absolutely nothing with its old-school, ladder-frame predecessor based on the Isuzu MU. Instead, this new generation trades toughness for a modern, urban-friendly setup, sharing its platform with the Citroen C3 Aircross.
According to Opel’s official German configurator, the base Frontera Edition leaves out several features available in the higher GS and Ultimate trims.
Simple Tech For Bigger Savings
Despite its minimalist approach, the most affordable Frontera still includes a 10-inch digital instrument cluster. However, where you’d usually find a touchscreen on the glossy black dashboard, there’s a smartphone holder instead.
The crossover comes with a basic radio, a microphone for voice commands and calls, and two front speakers that only function when a phone is connected via Bluetooth. A USB Type-C port offers quick charging on the move, while the manual air-conditioning system keeps things old-school with rotary dials on the center console.
Buyers who want more can opt for the Tech package, which adds the 10-inch touchscreen, DAB radio, navigation, a rearview camera, wireless charging, and a front armrest with storage. The Comfort package brings heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and automatic climate control, while the Design package adds a white roof, black roof rails, and matching white details for the 16-inch steel wheels.
Pricing The Basics
So how affordable is the entry-level Frontera? In Germany, the Edition trim starts at €24,190 ($28,300) for the Hybrid 110 with the 1.2-liter engine, and climbs to €31,190 ($36,500) for the Electric Extended Range 113 PS model. The optional Tech and Comfort packages add €1,000 ($1,200) each, while the Design pack will set you back another €450 ($525).
Further up the range, the GS trim adds between €3,500 and €3,700 ($4,100) to the entry-level price, while the Ultimate trim costs only €300 ($350) more than the GS.
Interestingly, in France, the Frontera Edition includes an infotainment display as standard, even with a slightly lower base price of €23,845 ($27,900). Other small Opel models like the Corsa and Mokka also include screens across all trims.
Screen-Less Models Are Trending
Of course, Opel isn’t alone in the “screen-less” concept. Several automakers now offer base trims that rely on smartphone docking stations instead of built-in displays. Dacia has led the charge, with all its models, aside from the Bigster, offered in a basic “Essential” specification without a touchscreen.
Within the Stellantis family, the same philosophy applies to the Citroën C3, C3 Aircross, and Fiat Grande Panda, all of which share the Smart Car platform with the Frontera.
A host of upcoming budget urban EVs, like the VW ID.Up (ID.Every1) and the Renault Twingo, are also expected to let drivers use their smartphones for multimedia and navigation. This will allow automakers to offer them at a lower starting price.
Do You Really Need A Screen?
While many buyers love the look of large infotainment systems, some prefer the simplicity of using their own device, which can be easily updated over time. There’s also a practical advantage: without a screen dominating the dashboard, essential controls like heating and ventilation remain physical, straightforward, and easy to use.
Beyond Europe, you’ll find countless screen-less models in Japan, India, Southeast Asia, and South America. In contrast, Chinese buyers have access to massive screens and high-tech features in the vast majority of passenger vehicles.
The Dacia Hipster concept is an ultra-low-cost EV smaller than a kei car.
Blocky design, modular interior, and lightweight 800 kg build keep costs low.
Production version could follow new EU regulations allowing cheaper EVs.
The race to make electric cars affordable has produced plenty of overcomplicated ideas, but Dacia’s Hipster concept goes the opposite way. Think Citroen 2CV and Fiat Panda in its simplicity. It’s unapologetically basic, designed to get people moving without the frills or inflated promises that often come with an EV badge.
Now, the Hipster is officially still just a concept, but its production intent is clear. It’s expected to undercut Dacia’s most affordable electric model, the Spring, which starts at just under €17,000 euros (around $18,400) in Germany and roughly £15,000 (about $18,900) in the UK.
According to Dacia, the average price of new vehicles in Europe climbed by an eye-watering 77 percent between 2010 and 2024, far outpacing household income. With the Hipster, the brand aims to bring electric mobility to a broader audience, pushing beyond what the already budget-friendly Spring offers.
Compact By Design
The Hipster measures 3 meters (118.1 inches) in length, 1.55 meters (61 inches) in width, and 1.54 meters (60.6 inches) in height, making it even smaller than a kei car. Only a few micro-sized quadricycles like the Citroen Ami manage to come in beneath it on the size chart.
Dacia describes the Hipster’s shape as “a block sitting firmly on four wheels at the four corners.” It looks like a scaled-down mix between a Jeep and a Land Rover Defender, with a stubby front, upright nose, and flat window surfaces that give it a utilitarian charm. There are virtually no overhangs, and the proportions seem designed more by common sense than by committee.
The bodywork is painted in a single color with three colorful parts and protecting cladding made of a partly-recycled material called Starkle. Other cost-cutting measures include straps instead of door handles, taillights mounted behind the rear glass, and sliding windows.
Small And Lightweight
Despite its tiny footprint, the Hipster promises enough room for four adult passengers in comfort-oriented bench seats. Behind the split tailgate there is a 70 lt (2.5 cubic feet) boot that can grow to 500 lt (17.7 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded.
The interior makes full use of the brand’s “You Clip” accessory mounting system with 11 anchor points for cupholders, armrests, lights, toys etc. In typical Dacia flavor, the user’s smartphone is mounted on a docking station serving as a digital key, a navigation device, and an infotainment system connected to a portable Bluetooth audio speaker. There is also a digital instrument cluster behind the futuristic steering wheel, and dual airbags.
At just 800 kilograms (1,764 pounds), the Hipster weighs roughly 20 percent less than the Spring subcompact hatchback. That weight-saving mindset carries through to its environmental goals, as Dacia aims to cut the car’s full lifecycle carbon footprint in half compared to conventional EVs by using less material and energy overall.
Enough Range For Half Of The Week
The exact battery capacity and motor output remain undisclosed, but Dacia hints that the Hipster’s range is tailored for real-world habits rather than marketing numbers.
According to the company, research shows that 94 percent of French drivers cover fewer than 40 kilometers (25 miles) daily, or about 280 kilometers (174 miles) a week. The Hipster is designed to manage typical routines with only two recharges per week, suggesting a usable range near 93 kilometers (58 miles).
From Idea To Reality
Dacia’s take on reinventing the car is not just a design study. It is clear that the company wants the Hipster to evolve into a production offering that could shake up the EV market in Europe. This could happen with the upcoming regulatory changes allowing smaller and more affordable EVs to be sold across the continent.
Interestingly, the Hipster is different from the budget-friendly electric hatchback that was teased earlier this year promising a sub-€18,000 starting price and a mid-2026 debut. Besides unveiling the new concept, Dacia has also introduced an updated Spring EV, alongside facelifted versions of the Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Loggan, and Jogger.
BMW is expected to unveil a new generation of the 3-Series sedan in 2026.
The Neue Klasse sedan will be available in ICE (3-Series) and EV (i3) derivatives.
Despite riding on different underpinnings, the models will look very similar.
Update: A lot has happened since we last looked at the future G50 3 Series. Thanks to new renderings, fresh intel, and the latest spy shots, we now have the clearest picture yet of how Munich’s defining sports sedan is set to evolve in its next generation.
Sedans may no longer dominate sales charts in an SUV-driven world, but the3-Series still has plenty of road left ahead of it. This compact executive four-door has been a pillar of BMW’s lineup for fifty years, valued as much for its reputation as for the way it drives.
The next chapter begins in 2026, when a new generation arrives in two distinct forms: the all-electric i3, codenamed NA0, and the traditional internal-combustion 3 Series, codenamed G50. If that sounds familiar, it’s because BMW’s been work-shopping this approach with their bigger sedans, the i5/5-Series and i7/7-Series.
The 3 Series and its EV sibling are now set to follow the same playbook, giving customers a choice between conventional gasoline power and fully electric performance.
Spied And Rendered
Illustrations Kelsonik / Kolesa
Recent spy shots of prototypes have revealed both gas-powered and fully electric versions of the next-gen 3-Series. While both share the “Neue Klasse” design language, the differences in proportions are telling.
The ICE testers feature a slightly longer hood, a sharper dash-to-axle ratio, and a more upright windshield. These elements combined make it look less like a complete EV-inspired redesign and more like an extensively reworked version of the current G20-generation BMW 3-Series.
These sightings have inspired digital artists Theottle and Kelsonic from Kolesa to create their own renderings of the next 3 Series, each offering an early glimpse of how the sedan’s styling might evolve.
BMW’s signature shark-nose design returns with a sharper, more athletic edge, framed by a fresh take on the kidney grilles. Slimmer and wider than on today’s models, the grilles now stretch across the front and now double as housing for sensors and tech that support advanced driver-assistance features. A deeper front bumper and lightly flared fenders complete the look, adding some muscle without drifting into excess.
Flush door handles bring the styling in line with BMW’s latest clean-surfaced aesthetic, while the greenhouse and Hofmeister kink stay intact.
The next generation of the BMW 3-Series sedan (Photos: SHProshots)
The BMW i3 Neue Klasse sedan.
Out back, heavy camouflage forces a little guesswork. Theottle’s rendering draws from the 2023 Vision Neue Klasse concept, with a full-width light bar and crisp LED signatures, while Kelsonic’s interpretation borrows slimmer light units reminiscent of the production iX3. Lower down, both envision sportier bumpers inspired by BMW’s M division, in line with prototypes wearing large alloys, upgraded brakes, and quad tailpipes.
Tech Blueprint From The iX3
While we have yet to get a glimpse of the 3-Series prototype’s interior during development testing, we have a pretty good idea of what to expect, largely thanks to the new iX3 that serves as the blueprint for BMW’s next generation of models.
At the center is the new Panoramic iDrive system that replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a wide digital display stretching across the full width of the dashboard. It places essentials like speed and electric range directly in the driver’s line of sight while allowing the rest of the information to be tailored to both driver and passenger. The screen itself is divided into three flexible sections, each configurable to suit individual preferences.
BMW will also offer an optional head-up display with animated guidance that counts down to the next turn. The setup is joined by a large, asymmetrically shaped infotainment touchscreen on the center console and a handful of physical switches for everyday functions.
Two Platforms, Two Paths
Unlike the i5/5-Series and i7/7-Series, where BMW paired EVs and ICE models on the same platform, the i3 and 3-Series are believed to head down different paths.
The all-electric i3 sedan will ride on the Neue Klasse architecture, shared with the upcoming iX3 SUV, while the combustion-powered 3-Series will reportedly stick to the CLAR platform, which also underpins the forthcoming G45 X3. This would explain the differences in proportions and styling details we see in the i3 and ICE 3-Series prototypes here.
Based on what we’ve seen with the mechanically related X3, the next-gen 3-Series will likely offer mild-hybrid upgrades of BMW’s proven 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter inline-six, with the latter forming the heart of the next M350. Both should see gains in efficiency and power over today’s units.
Interestingly, even the mighty M3 isn’t immune to electrification. However, as BMW officials told us in a recent trip, the next M3 will forego the heavy plug-in hybrid setup of the M5, instead opting for a lighter mild-hybrid system. This should provide outputs in excess of the current ratings of 473 hp, 503 hp, and 523 hp, depending on whether you’re looking at the standard car, the Competition, or the Competition xDrive, not to mention the inevitable special editions.
Meanwhile, for those following BMW’s EV push, a quad-motor all-electric counterpart to the M3, possibly called the iM3, is already under development. With over 700 horsepower and near instant torque, it promises tire-melting lunacy for the brave few. And there may be more to come, as BMW has hinted the setup could be pushed past 1,300 horsepower, though whether that kind of excess ever makes it to production in some form of a special edition is another story.
The downside is weight, and plenty of it, as spy shots suggest the electric M3 could be at least 465 kg (1,025 lbs) heavier than today’s car. Hardly surprising, then, if carbon-ceramic brakes show up on the options list, just as they do on the current M3 and M4.
When Will They Arrive?
The current G20-generation BMW 3-Series first graced the stage in 2018, with minor facelifts arriving in 2022 and 2024. BMW has already confirmed the electric i3 for next year, and while it hasn’t given a timeline for the ICE 3 Series, it will most likely be introduced in 2026 as a 2027 model year, with the actual market launch possibly slipping into 2027.
Prototype previews a budget-friendly fastback crossover for Panda buyers.
It rides on Stellantis Smart Car underpinnings with ICE, hybrid, and EV choices.
The production version resembles the Citroen Basalt sold overseas markets.
A new chapter in Fiat’s Panda lineup is beginning to take shape, with fresh variants now undergoing tests on European roads. Among them is a budget-friendly fastback crossover that aims to combine everyday practicality with a more distinctive silhouette, set to be offered with gasoline, mild-hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.
The fastback first appeared in concept form in early 2024, shown alongside a hatchback that evolved into the Grande Panda, plus an SUV, pickup, and camper study. The prototype caught in camouflage testing looks toned down compared to the concept, trading some of its flair for more traditional proportions and a simplified glasshouse.
Up front, the resemblance to the Grande Panda is clear, with boxy LED headlights featuring pixel-style graphics, a closed-off grille, and a single intake low on the bumper. From the side, the longer wheelbase and large-diameter alloys give it a stretched stance. The shape of the windows hints strongly at Citroen design influences, something that makes sense once you look at its family connections.
At the rear, heavy camouflage hides much of the fastback curve, but you can still spot slim taillight elements mounted high and the license plate positioned on the bumper. A discreet exhaust tip tucked beneath the car suggests this particular prototype is running a combustion engine.
The original concept (above) compared to the production version (below).
SH Proshots
An Italian With A French Sibling
Despite its silhouette, the car isn’t related to the the Fiat Fastback that is available in South America since 2022. Instead, it shares DNA with another Stellantis product, the Citroen Basalt, which launched in 2024 for markets including India, Brazil, Argentina, and Indonesia. That model is mechanically linked to the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross SUV, though it wears a more coupe-like shape.
Fiat’s newcomer will sit on Stellantis’ Smart Car platform, the same underpinnings found in the Grande Panda, the European-market Citroen C3 and C3 Aircross, and the Opel Frontera.
Engine choices are expected to include the 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder in both standard petrol and mild-hybrid configurations, alongside a full EV variant. While the default setup is front-wheel drive, there’s a chance an all-wheel-drive version could follow, echoing the planned Grande Panda 4×4.
Fiat has confirmed that the full Panda family will roll out by 2027, with the fastback likely to be the first of the new additions to reach showrooms. An official unveiling is expected within the next few months.
That was the premise behind a one-off Spectre commissioned by a couple in the United States, who decided their Labrador-Golden Retriever mix deserved a tribute on four wheels, executed with the kind of extravagance only Rolls-Royce would entertain. The project became the Spectre Bailey, curated through Rolls-Royce’s invitation-only Private Office in New York.
A Portrait in Veneer
Between the rear seats sits the highlight, a portrait of Bailey, rendered not in paint but in marquetry. More than 180 separate pieces of veneer in 22 different shades were cut, shaped, and assembled for the inlay, a task that consumed over four months of craftsmanship. In other words, the dog’s likeness took longer to complete than the actual car.
The rest of the interior is styled to echo Bailey’s fur, an exercise in matching leather to Labrador. Moccasin and Creme Light dominate, with Dark Spice and Casden Tan accents filling in the contrast, all framed by High Gloss Royal Walnut veneer.
Just in case anyone missed the theme, a paw print decorates the passenger side of the dashboard, with more scattered across the Rose Gold treadplates, like a luxury scrapbook of muddy footprints.
The exterior treatment follows the same playbook of canine devotion. The main bodywork wears Crystal Fusion, topped with a bespoke shade called Beautiful Bailey, an iridescent paint mixed to capture the shimmer of fur on the dog’s ear.
As if that weren’t enough, the coachline carries a hand-painted paw print in Rose Gold, with the same gilded touch given to the Spirit of Ecstasy.
Standard Spectre Beneath
Beneath all the custom flourishes, it remains an ordinary Spectre. Power comes from an electric drivetrain producing 577 hp (430 kW / 584 PS), backed by a 120 kWh battery good for 266 miles (428 km) on a charge. The owners apparently saw no need for the angrier 650 hp Black Badge variant.
Unlike Bailey, whose likeness now adorns half the cabin, the couple behind the Spectre Bailey would rather remain anonymous. After unveiling their rolling tribute, they offered the following statement:
“We are lifelong car enthusiasts, yes, but we are also lifelong animal lovers, and our dog Bailey is a cherished member of our family. When we started our Rolls-Royce Spectre commission, we saw the opportunity to create something beautiful which would remind us of him for decades to come. Working with the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective, we were surprised at every turn with their wonderful ideas – the wood inlay, or the paw prints on the sill – which added so much to the experience. Spectre Bailey is everything we hoped for and more; it’s a joyful tribute to our loyal companion.”
Priceless. For Some
Rolls-Royce has not disclosed the cost of this one-off, though anyone remotely familiar with the brand knows “expensive” is a given. As for Bailey, he remains blissfully unaware that his likeness has been immortalized in marquetry and metallic paint.
New Italian incentive cuts EV prices by up to €11,000 for eligible buyers.
The scrappage bonus is limited to low-income families living in urban areas.
Dacia Spring now costs €3,900, while Leapmotor T03 can be had for €4,900.
At a time when prices of new cars keep climbing out of reach for many households, Italy has launched a surprisingly generous scrappage scheme that makes some EVs almost absurdly affordable. Under the program, low-income buyers who trade in a car registered before 2015 could drive home in a brand-new Dacia Spring for as little as €3,900 (about $4,600 at current exchange rates).
The €597 million ($700 million) initiative is designed to increase electric car sales to at least 39,000 units by June 2026. Right now, fully electric vehicles represent only 5.2% of Italy’s market, far behind the European Union average of 15.8%.
To qualify for the full €11,000 ($12,900) discount, prospective EV buyers must scrap a Euro 5 (or earlier) vehicle, live in an urban area with more than 50,000 residents, and have a family income below €30,000 ($35,200). Households earning up to €40,000 ($46,900) can still access a reduced €9,000 ($10,600) bonus. Small companies also benefit, with subsidies covering 30% of an EV’s cost capped at €20,000 ($23,500) per new vehicle.
Pocket-Sized Prices
Dacia has trimmed the Italian starting price of the Spring EV from €17,900 ($21,000) to €14,900 ($17,500). With the full scrappage bonus applied, the figure falls to the headline-grabbing €3,900 ($4,600). That entry point is for the Essential Electric 45 trim, equipped with a 44 hp (33 kW / 45 PS) motor and a 26.8 kWh battery, good for a range of 225 km (140 miles).
Stellantis has also dropped the cost of the Leapmotor T03 from €18,900 ($22,200) to €15,900 ($18,700), meaning it can be purchased for €4,900 ($5,800) under the same scheme. As reported by Autonews, the Chinese brand claims that the heavily discounted price is “less than what you paid for your bicycle.”
Electric vehicles from other automakers are also eligible under the same scheme. Fiat offers the 500e from €9,950 ($11,700) and the electric version of the Grande Panda from €11,950 ($14,000). The closely-related Citroen e-C3 starts at €12,900 ($15,100), while the spacious e-C3 Aircross SUV is now offered from a discounted €15,790 ($18,500).
These prices are undeniably attractive, but the strict eligibility requirements mean the incentives only reach a narrow slice of the population. For now, the question is whether the subsidy will genuinely reshape Italy’s car market or simply deliver a short-term boost among those who qualify.
New Cayenne Electric gets a curved Flow Display and an optional passenger screen.
The SUV adds more personalization options alongside improved comfort features.
It will debut in late 2025, with the flagship trim producing over 1,000 horsepower.
Porsche is gearing up for the launch of the long-promised Cayenne Electric, a standalone addition to the existing gasoline and plug-in hybrid line-up. The full reveal isn’t due until later this year, but Stuttgart couldn’t help itself and pulled the covers off the interior early, and it’s basically one giant OLED showroom.
The Cayenne Electric ushers in what Porsche calls the “interior of the future,” a design that will eventually filter into other models. Taking center stage is the Flow Display, a curved OLED screen that dominates the middle of the dashboard. Thankfully, not every control has gone digital, with physical switches reserved for essentials like temperature, fan speed, and volume.
Still, even with those tokens of tradition, it’s about as far from a classic Porsche cabin as you can get, unless you think Stuttgart’s heritage has always been mood lighting and oversized tablet screens.
Screens, Screens Everywhere
The curved touchscreen pairs with a 14.25-inch OLED digital instrument cluster, an optional 87-inch augmented reality head-up display, and a 14.9-inch passenger screen that allows app control and video streaming. Technology also extends to the Porsche Digital Key, which can be shared with up to seven users, and a new AI-driven voice assistant.
Porsche claims the new Cayenne Electric offers more personalization than ever, with 13 interior color combinations, four interior packages, five accent packs, extended ambient lighting, and five digital themes. Added to that are the new Mood Modes, which coordinate lighting, climate, sound, and seating to match the driver’s preferences.
Porsche
New materials also make the cut. Leather comes in Magnesium Grey, Lavender, or Sage Grey, while the vegan-friendly Race-Tex interior with Pepita-patterned textile is billed as a nod to Porsche heritage.
Then there’s the hardware flex. Among the available options is the largest glass roof ever to be fitted to a Porsche, featuring a sliding front area and a Variable Light Control function with clear, semi-transparent, and matte settings. Another cool feature is the surface heating on contact areas such as armrests and door cards, complementing the heated seats and steering wheel. Finally, the standard-fit electrically adjustable rear seats prioritize passenger space or cargo.
And of course, if all that still feels too ordinary, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur and the Sonderwunsch program will happily relieve you of more cash for something “one-off.”
Porsche
What To Expect Outside
Camouflaged prototypes, shown by Porsche and captured by spy photographers, confirm that the Cayenne Electric will arrive in both traditional SUV and coupe-SUV forms. The styling seems to combine the current Cayenne’s proportions with influences from the smaller Macan EV, along with a sharper aerodynamic edge.
Beneath the bodywork, the large Electric SUV sits on an evolved version of the Premium Platform Electric (PPE). The flagship version is expected to push out more than 1,000 horsepower, eclipsing the 730 hp of today’s Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid.
Energy will be stored in a 113 kWh battery pack with 400 kW fast-charging, wireless charging capability and a range of over 370 miles (595 km). Photos of the interior reveal a 546 km (340-mile) estimate on the cluster with the battery not quite at full charge.
We also know that the Cayenne Electric will feature Porsche’s Active Ride Suspension and offer a towing capacity of up to 7,716 lbs (3,500 kg) matching the majority of ICE-powered midsize pickups.
With its debut scheduled for the end of 2025, expect Stuttgart to drip-feed more details over the coming weeks and months.
Entry-level Peugeot 308 Style keeps a convenience missing in higher trims.
The Style comes standard with digital cockpit, full LEDs, and dual-zone A/C.
Flagship GT Exclusive adds sportier aero, extra features, and 18-inch wheels.
The compact hatchback is one of the fiercest battlegrounds in the European market, and Peugeot isn’t letting its 308 go dull. The facelifted hatch and station wagon are already on sale across Europe, but a look through the configurator shows that the humble Style trim not only comes well equipped, it also clings to a feature Peugeot has stripped from the top-spec GT Exclusive.
That feature is the physical climate control panel, complete with two rotary dials and a set of tactile buttons positioned beneath the central touchscreen. The same setup can be found on the Style, Business and Allure trims. However, the GT and GT Exclusive models get the “Peugeot i-toggles” touch-sensitive shortcuts. This means that adjusting the temperature requires a glance at the screen and a tap on the right area, a process that feels more distracting on the move.
Buttons Where They Matter
Interestingly, the cheapest 308 Style comes standard with a 10-inch infotainment and 10-inch digital instrument cluster, although it doesn’t get the nicer materials found in higher grades. Equipment also includes dual-zone A/C, rear parking sensors, electrically folding and heated mirrors, and a six speaker audio.
Furthermore, the exterior retains the sporty bumpers and full-LED lights introduced by the facelift, combined with a set of black 16-inch alloy wheels.
On the other end of the spectrum, the flagship Peugeot 308 GT Exclusive trim is distinguished by the diamond-cut 18-inch alloy wheels, the sharper side skirts, the matching front bumper extension, and the illuminated section on the grille which is joined by an illuminated Peugeot shield and Matrix LED headlights.
Inside, the GT Exclusive is equipped with an upgraded instrument cluster featuring 3D graphics, ambient lighting, Alcantara upholstery, and the 360 Vision & Drive Assist Plus Pack suite bringing Level 2 autonomous driving capability. Options include a 10-speaker Focal audio system, a sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, all-season tires, and a retractable towing hitch.
Powertrain Options And Pricing
The facelifted Peugeot 308 is available with mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrain options. The most potent version is the PHEV, with a combined output of 192 hp (143 kW / 195 PS). The Style trim is reserved for the mild-hybrid and fully electric options, so those who want the PHEV and physical climate controls have to upgrade to the Business or the Allure.
The cheapest Peugeot 308 Style Hybrid 145 currently starts at €28,390 ($33,300) in France, while the range-topping GT Exclusive trim with the same engine costs €33,277 ($39,100). The most expensive option is the 308 GT Exclusive Plug-in Hybrid 195 priced at at €39,780 ($46,700), which is €461 ($540) more than the equivalent Electrique 156.
Fortunately, most automakers have realized that customers want regular buttons and switches for crucial functions instead of having to navigate through complicated infotainment menus or use touch-sensitive controls. In this context, we expect future Stellantis models to feature a practical solution for the climate controls – from their entry-level trim all the way to the range-topping guise.
Independent study imagines the discontinued Legacy reborn as an EV sedan.
Styling cues are borrowed from Subaru’s latest electric SUVs like the Solterra.
Subaru’s current EV strategy leaves little space for a midsize electric sedan.
After 35 years in showrooms, the Subaru Legacy has officially bowed out of production in the United States. While there’s no new generation on the horizon, one independent designer has reimagined the sedan as if it were stepping into the electric era.
The fictional 2027 Subaru Legacy comes from Digimods Design, who shared the concept on his YouTube channel. Up front, the design takes cues from Subaru’s recent EVs, including the new Uncharted, the refreshed Solterra, and the Trailsport / E-Outback. The look is defined by slim LED headlights, a narrow grille, and a sharply contoured bumper.
The greenhouse and the sheet metal on the profile are carried over from the outgoing seventh-generation Legacy that debuted in 2019 and received a facelift in 2023. However, the designer has added new alloy wheels and fresh color options.
The rear end of the midsize sedan adopts a more conventional approach. A pair of elongated LED taillights is combined with a modern tailgate and a sleeker bumper. The latter houses a split diffuser, proving that this Subaru doesn’t have a combustion engine up front.
The design study doesn’t include renderings of the interior, but it’s easy to imagine a high-tech digital cockpit similar to the other Toyota-based Subaru EVs.
The outgoing Legacy sat on the Subaru Global Platform, which wasn’t designed with electric powertrains in mind. In a more speculative scenario, however, this hypothetical EV could borrow the dual-motor setup from the Uncharted crossover, offering 338 hp (252 kW / 344 PS) and Subaru’s trademark all-wheel drive.
For now, Subaru has given no sign that a Legacy EV is in the works. The brand’s electric strategy is centered on crossovers and SUVs developed with Toyota, which leaves little space in the lineup for a sedan.
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