BMW is working on 40 new or updated models and that includes the redesigned 3-Series and 3-Series EV, known as the i3. Both were recently spied undergoing testing and they sport some notable differences.

While both cars have a Neue Klasse front end, the gas-powered model has a prominent lower intake that appears to have an active shutter grille. The lower bumper on the i3 is covered by camouflaged mesh, but it should feature a similar setup.

More: BMW’s New i3 Sedan Is Coming For Tesla’s Blood

More notable differences are revealed in the comparison images as we can see the two models have different rooflines. The i3’s is relatively flat, while the 3-Series has a subtle slope.

We can also see slightly different greenhouses with diverging rear door designs. The ICE-powered model has a nearly vertical partition, while the EV has a more angular design with a triangular base. Furthermore, both cars have unique rear quarter glass.

Baldauf

Even something as mundane as the location of the charging/fuel door is different. On the 3-Series, it’s located towards the front of the rear fender and sits slightly above the top of the rear taillights. This contrasts with the i3, which has a charging port that is located lower and towards the middle of the panel.

All of this suggests a lot of manufacturing complexity and few shared components – at least on the outside. Speaking of which, spy photographers did get a glimpse of the cabin and it shows a freestanding display and a new steering wheel.

The rest of the interior is covered by black cloth, but one of the images clearly shows a pillar-to-pillar Panoramic iDrive display at the base of the windshield.

Powertrain details remain scarce, but the i3 should follow in the footsteps of the iX3. The crossover is being launched in 50 xDrive guise, which features a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing a combined output of 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) and 476 lb-ft (645 Nm) of torque.

This enables the model to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.9 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h).

The motors are powered by a 108.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which provides a WLTP range of up to 500 miles (805 km). The impressive numbers extend to the 400 kW DC fast charging capability, which enables the battery to go from a 10-80% charge in as little as 21 minutes.

Baldauf

BMW has already confirmed further electric variants will follow including an entry-level model with rear-wheel drive. It’s likely that a number of these powertrains will be shared with the i3.

The 3-Series will be more evolutionary as it will ride on an updated version of the CLAR platform. However, previous reports have suggested we can expect an updated engine lineup including a new M350 with over 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS).

Baldauf

Porsche engineers are not exactly easy to impress. These are the people who spend their days perfecting GT3s and wringing every last drop of magic from flat-six engines and setting Nurburgring lap records.

So when two of the brand’s most senior engineering bosses drove the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and came away buzzing like teenagers leaving an arcade, you know something interesting is happening in the electric-car world.

Also: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Gets A Cheaper Version But You Can’t Have It

Frank Moser, Porsche’s vice president in charge of the 718 and 911 lines, admitted to Australia’s Drive that he has driven the Ioniq 5 N “several times” and called it an “eye-opening” experience.

Moser even dragged along Andreas Preuninger, the legendary head of Porsche GT cars, whose blood type is probably 98 RON premium, and definitely not amps.

From Skeptic to Convert?

Preuninger was not exactly enthusiastic at first. According to Moser, he grumbled, “I don’t want any of that electric stuff” when the idea was floated. But once they climbed inside and Moser pressed the Hyundai’s N Grin Boost button, the GT boss instantly turned into a believer.

“He was ‘wow’” Moser said, describing the moment Hyundai’s punchiest EV unleashed its full 641 hp ( 650 PS / 478 kW) and 568 lb-ft (770 Nm). “We learnt a lot from that car,” Moser told Australia’s Drive. “That’s why we decided to have a deeper look.”

It was not just the acceleration that snagged Porsche’s attention. The Ioniq 5 N’s signature party tricks, including its virtual gearshifts and synthesized powertrain noises, have Porsche seriously considering similar features for its upcoming electric 718 sports car.

Can Sound Create Soul?

Hyundai calls these systems N e-shift and N Active Sound+, and they replicate the snap of a dual-clutch gearbox and offer a selection of digital engine noises (most of them pretty lame, in my experience).

It is the kind of thing EV purists roll their eyes at, but performance engineers instantly understand. It makes the car feel alive and the driver connected to the driving experience.

“This is the way,” Moser said of the synthesized features, while making clear that Porsche wouldn’t force them on drivers.

“The customer could decide if he wants to drive in complete silent mode, or he wants to be part of the game, feeling the virtual sounds of a flat six and the virtual gear shifts,” Moser said. “That would be the direction for the future.”

Tuning the Future

Our money’s on it being part of a Sport Chrono-type option package that’ll add at least $2,000 to the bill of the new electric Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman.

The first 718 EV arrives in early 2027, and Moser promises it will be “really lightweight for an electric car,” though he declined to reveal an exact or even ballpark weight figure.

One thing is clear: Hyundai has just influenced one of the world’s most respected sports-car makers. Who could have imagined that happening 20 years ago?

Mercedes is gearing up to introduce the redesigned GLB on December 8 and the camouflage is starting to come off. This gives us our best look at the upcoming crossover, which will be offered with an electric powertrain.

While the front and rear ends are heavily disguised, the crossover’s profile has been exposed. This reveals an evolutionary design, which closely resembles the Smart #5. The similarities are striking as both have flush-mounted door handles and a corresponding greenhouse. The déjà vu design extends to the lower cladding and pronounced rear haunches.

More: New Mercedes GLB Goes Big On Screens And Stars

Compared to the current GLB, we can see starry new headlights and streamlined bodywork. Designers also gave the crossover a more conventional beltline and a completely new rear end.

The latter has vertical taillights that appear to be connected by an illuminated bar. Elsewhere, the license plate recess has been moved from the liftgate to the rear bumper.

A High-Tech And Screen-Focused Interior

Mercedes revealed the GLB’s interior earlier this month and the model will offer an optional MBUX Superscreen. It should consist of a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch infotainment system, and a 14-inch front passenger display.

Buyers will also find a new steering wheel, a floating center console, and an available wireless smartphone charger. There will also be five- and seven-seat configurations.

Speaking of which, Mercedes said the second-row has additional legroom as well as “noticeably more headroom.” Third-row passengers will find improved entry and egress.

A panoramic glass roof will come standard and customers can upgrade to an illuminated roof that features a “starry sky.” One version of the roof will also be able to transition from clear to opaque in a matter of milliseconds.

The crossover is expected to echo the CLA and offer an 85 kWh battery pack as well as two powertrains at launch. The entry-level variant could have a rear-mounted motor with 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque. Customers can also expect a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 349 hp (260 kW / 354 PS) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque.

They should be joined by a hybrid powertrain that has a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a 1.3 kWh battery pack, and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission with an integrated electric motor. This enables the European CLA to have outputs of 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS) and 206 lb-ft (280 Nm) as well as 181 hp (135 kW / 184 PS) and 243 lb-ft (330 Nm).

Volkswagen’s smallest electric SUV has crawled out of the concept studio and onto public roads. Our spy photographers just snagged the very first shots of the ID.Cross prototype, giving us an early look at the subcompact EV that VW previewed with the ID.Cross concept at last September’s Munich Auto Show.

It’s still wrapped in camouflage, but even through the swirls, the production version looks remarkably close to the original concept.

Related: VW Revives Classic Nameplates With A New Mission To Fight Off China’s EV Surge

The proportions look almost copy-and-paste. The ID.Cross sits has short overhangs, a rounded nose and a slightly pinched tail that mirrors the concept’s “urban-friendly” footprint.

Expect the real thing to land close to the concept’s numbers, which were designed to squeeze maximum cabin space from a small footprint: roughly 4,160 mm (163.8 inches) in length, making it shorter than America’s Taos and right in the heart of the subcompact EV class.

Even under wrap, the headlight and taillight outlines look familiar from the Munich show, hinting at VW’s newest light-bar family face. And though we can’t see them, we’re sure the three illuminated rectangles embedded in the concept’s black C-pillar have also made the cut.

The concept’s whimsical yoga-studio-on-wheels interior probably won’t survive 100 percent unchanged, though, so don’t expect pastel mood lighting or Zen-garden textures in the base model.

But VW’s latest compact cabin architecture, with a bigger infotainment screen and improved physical switchgear, should appear here.

What Powers It?

SH Proshots

Under the skin, the ID.Cross rides on the latest evolution of the MEB platform, tweaked for a new front-wheel-drive generation of small EVs including the ID.Polo.

The concept was pitched with a single-motor setup producing around 208 hp (211 PS / 155 kW), and that’s a believable target for the production version, though we expect to also see less powerful versions join the lineup to improve accessibility.

VW didn’t give a battery size for the concept but claimed it could deliver a 261-mile (420 km) WLTP electric range, and again, that’s a solid indicator about the kind of touring ability we’ll get from the real thing when it makes its global debut next year.

Will The US Get It?

US sales are yet to be confirmed, but in Europe the ID.Cross will cost from around £25k/€28k ($32k) when it goes head to head with other electric crossovers like the Kia EV2, Toyota Urban Cruiser, and its VW Group cousins, the Skoda Epiq and Cupra Raval.

Stefan Baldauf, Guido ten Brink, VW

Mazda’s EV push got off to a rough start as the MX-30 only survived two years in America. It was offered exclusively in California, and the company only sold 324 units in 2022.

More of an oddity than anything else, the 2023 model started at $34,110 and featured a tiny 35.5 kWh battery pack that provided 100 miles (161 km) of range. Besides being more expensive than competitors while offering less range, the MX-30 had suicide rear doors and an electric motor developing 143 hp (107 kW / 145 PS).

More: 2026 Mazda CX-5 Grows Up And Gets A Hybrid Option

Following the failure of the MX-30, Mazda leaned on Chinese partners for the EZ-6 and EZ-60. While those are fine for certain markets, the company needed to create a ‘proper’ EV.

We’re now getting our first look at it as a mule was recently spied undergoing testing near the company’s research and development center in Irvine, California. As you can see, the model wears a heavily modified body sourced from the CX-70 or CX-90.

The front end is disguised, but features a fully enclosed grille as well as blocked off air curtains. We can also see a relatively small central intake.

Baldauf

Bigger changes occur aft of the A-pillar as the mule has a shorter wheelbase than the CX-90 as well as a significantly shorter rear overhang. The model also has third-quarter glass that is reminiscent of the CX-80. While it’s hard to judge the crossover’s size by pictures alone, spy photographers said it was about as big as the CX-50.

Speaking of size, the upcoming EV is narrower than the body suggests. A closer inspection reveals the wheels are tucked in considerably, and this means the upcoming production model will have shorter tracks than the CX-90. We can also see aerodynamic rims as well as a possible charging port hidden beneath a rear bumper flap.

Baldauf

Little else is known about the model at this point, but Mazda announced plans for the Skyactiv EV Scalable Architecture way back in 2021. At the time, the company referred to it as a dedicated EV platform that would be introduced in 2025 and underpin “various vehicle sizes and body types.”

Mazda was originally planning to introduce several vehicles on the platform between 2025 and 2030. Needless to say, 2025 is almost up, and things have been delayed. It’s now believed the model could debut in 2027 and land stateside the following year.

Mazda has been busy polishing its lineup of straight-six-powered crossovers, pouring attention into its larger and more profitable models. Yet, as the Hiroshima brand shifts focus to electrification and SUVs, the rest of its range has been quietly gathering dust.

Future Cars: Nissan’s 2027 Versa Could Prove Cheap Doesn’t Have To Mean Boring

Apart from the refreshed CX-5 and a few Chinese-sourced EVs, not much has been happening in Mazda’s compact corner. And the silence surrounding a successor to the 3 has been deafening, with no sign of it anywhere in the brand’s future product roadmap.

Reports suggests the compact offering won’t see light beyond 2026, which, if true, is an utter shame for a company that once prided itself on fun-driving sedans and hatchbacks. Has Zoom-Zoom transitioned into the land of doom?

Could China Keep the 3 Alive?

When Mazda axed the long-serving 6 sedan and wagon, many thought it would be replaced by a rear-drive, inline six proposition to compete with BMW M340i and Audi’s S4.

That dream never materialized. Instead, select markets such as Europe and Australia received the Deepal-based Mazda 6e/EZ-6, while North America was left out of the equation.

This begs the question: could the 3 see the same fate and become another Deepal-derived product? After all, it would make sense as Mazda is a small player compared to many of its rivals, leaning into Changan’s portfolio helps keep development costs in check. 

Also: New Mazda 6e Costs Twice As Much In Europe As It Does In China

Adding weight to the theory are recent trademark filings for the Mazda3e in Australia, the UK, and Europe, while the Chongqing-based automaker has also unveiled its smaller L06 sedan under the newly formed China Changan Automobile Group.

While purely speculative at this point, Deepal’s L06 could very well underpin the first-ever Mazda3e. Curious as to what form it could take? Let’s look at what we can expect.

An Electrified Twist

If Mazda takes the same route as the 6e, the 3e would borrow Deepal’s existing hardware. The L06 itself is set to launch in two forms: a range-extended hybrid (EREV) and a fully electric variant.

The EREV pairs a 97 hp 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine with a 28.39 kWh LFP battery and a 190 kW (255 hp) electric motor on the rear axle. It offers an EV-only range of 180 km (about 112 miles) on the WLTP cycle, while the internal combustion engine’s fuel consumption is rated at 4.38 litres per 100 km, or roughly 54 mpg.

The electric version of the Deepal L06 is equipped with a single rear axle motor that produces 268 hp (200 kW). This variant will offer two battery packs, a 56 kWh battery and a larger 69 kWh pack with a range of 416 miles (670 km).

Interior Smarts

Inside, expect a more premium aesthetic compared to its Deepal donor car, and (annoyingly) the all-screens trend as seen in the new CX-5 and EZ-60 SUVs.

A 3-nanometre automotive-grade cockpit chip will help power the 50-inch AR-HUD (Augmented Reality Head-Up Display, infotainment, and Level 2+ driver assist systems, with the latter benefiting from standard LiDAR fitment.

Read: Mazda’s Global $16,800 Chinese SUV Makes America’s Cheapest Cars Look Overpriced

It has more space, too. Measuring 190 inches (4830 mm) in length, the sedan is notably longer than the current Mazda3 and just a whisker shorter (and wider) than the discontinued 6. This increase repositions it into a larger segment, which will help remedy one of the 3’s most significant shortfalls: tight rear seating.

Kodo Design

Our artistic interpretation of the Mazda 3e retains the automaker’s Kodo design language but keeps the donor car’s glasshouse and doors. The front end is an evolution of the Mazda 6e, with an illuminated front panel flanked by split-tier headlamps and active grille shutters in the lower portion of the bumper.

More: BMW’s New iX4 Could Finally Give The Model Y Something To Worry About

The side profile sports curvaceous sheet metal, semi-flush door handles and a coupe‑like roofline. Love or hate it, the LiDAR unit sits at the top of the windscreen, while out back, the sports a rear diffuser and full‑width taillight strip with circular elements.

Final Thoughts

It’s worth noting that Mazda has yet to confirm whether the current 3 will receive another generation or if a reskinned Changan product will replace it.

If the latter comes to fruition (likely in the next 24 months), the Tesla Model 3 rival will be off the cards for North American consumption. Still, it will rival a variety of electrified options like Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 and BYD Seal in European and Asia Pacific markets.

Should Mazda tap into its Changan joint venture for the next 3? Share your views in the comments below.

Smart might be eager to reconnect with its roots when the next-generation Fortwo arrives in late 2026, but the brand has a surprising second act in the works, one that ventures far from its comfort zone.

The company that’s a joint venture between China’s Geely and Mercedes-Benz is developing its first-ever sedan, a move that pushes into new territory. The four-door model is expected to join Smart’s lineup in the coming months, marking an important shift for the company best known for its pint-sized city cars.

More: Smart Just Killed Hopes Of A ForFour Comeback

Rumors of the Smart #6 first surfaced in early 2025, hinting that it might go head-to-head with the Tesla Model 3. Those reports now carry weight, as fresh photos of camouflaged prototypes have appeared on Chinese social media, offering an early glimpse of the newcomer.

One prototype was spotted by a Weibo user during road testing in Cixi, Ningbo. Its aerodynamic shape fits the modern electric sedan template, complete with a smoothly tapering roofline that blends into the rear deck.

Compared to other Smart models, the upcoming sedan sports aggressive headlights that will likely be connected by a full-width LED bar.

Weibo

We can also see the slim DRLs flanking the large bumper intake and the roof-mounted Lidar section. The rear looks more like a baby Mercedes, with an active rear spoiler reminiscent of the McLaren SLR.

The other prototype appears to be less advanced as it is covered in heavier camouflage. However, a photo under the rear reveals dual exhaust pipes, confirming the presence of a combustion engine under the hood. The sedan will most likely feature a range-extender powertrain, just like the one offered in the Smart #5 SUV.

More: Smart’s New #5 Compact SUV Isn’t Coming To The US And That’s A Mistake

Weibo

The powertrain in that model pairs a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 161 hp (120 kW / 163 PS) with a single electric motor rated at 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS). Battery options include 20 kWh and 41 kWh packs.

In the boxy Smart #5, the larger battery offers an electric-only range of 252 km (157 miles) and a combined CLTC range of 1,615 km (1,004 miles). The sleeker, more aerodynamic profile of the #6 should deliver even better numbers, benefiting from its streamlined shape and lower drag.

The sedan is expected to share its underpinnings with the Zeekr 007, using Geely’s PMA2+ architecture. The platform supports both single-motor rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations, giving Smart flexibility in how it positions the car.

Judging by the current state of the prototypes, the Smart #6 seems to be nearing production readiness. What remains uncertain is whether it will stay exclusive to China or make its way into global markets.

The Genesis GV90 is taking an eternity to develop, but work continues on the coach door variant. However, the long gestation period is apparently wearing on employees as a couple of them decided to ignore a warning saying “Do not open doors!”

Thanks to their mistake, spy photographers were able to get a glimpse of the doors in action. As you’d expect, the doors open and close automatically to ensure entry and egress is effortless.

More: Genesis’ Flagship SUV Is Hiding A Secret Worthy Of Rolls-Royce

More notably, the luxury crossover eschews a B-pillar as there’s an uninterrupted side opening. While our view is partially blocked, this is an interesting development as even Rolls-Royces have a thick pillar separating the front and rear passenger compartments.

The feature was previewed on the Neolun concept and Genesis previously said B-pillarless coach doors provide “much more open interior space” while also maximizing “convenient passenger access.” At the time, they hinted development had reached a point where using the design on road-going models was “now feasible.”

SHproshots

That’s certainly the case and it appears Genesis will be moving the traditional B-pillar support to the doors. As part of the change, we can see pronounced locking mechanisms on the door sill and ceiling. The front section of the rear door also appears notably thicker than the rest of the panel.

Besides giving us a glimpse of the doors in action, the latest pictures reveal the crossover will have power front and rear seats with a bewildering number of adjustments. We can also see blue and purple leather as well as metallic accents and contrast piping.

Previous spy photos have shown an elegant second-row with captain’s chairs that are separated by a large center console. The latter appears to house a wireless smartphone charger as well as an integrated tablet.

Platform and Powertrain

The company hasn’t said much about the model lately, but the GV90 is expected to ride on the new eM platform. The architecture is expected to be an evolution of the existing E-GMP platform, but incorporate the latest advancements in electric vehicle technology.

Although full details remain unclear, the GV90 should be more advanced than the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9. The latter features a 110.3 kWh battery pack as well as a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing up to 422 hp (315 kW / 429 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. With that powertrain, the model has a range of 311 miles (501 km).

SHproshots

Mercedes went head-to-head with BMW at September’s Munich Auto Show, with both companies revealing compact electric SUVs, and the Bavarian iX3 definitely looked more dynamic in our view, despite the best efforts of the GLC’s huge new grille.

But AMG is working on its own GLC version that could deliver the stage presence the stock model lacked.

Related: Mercedes Is Preparing A 40-Car Blitz To Reshape Its Future

Our spy photo team caught a Mercedes-AMG GLC EQ prototype testing in Germany, managing to fire off shots of both the exterior and interior and, thus, highlighting some important details.

One is the wider track versus the non-AMG version, the fat forged alloy wheels being pushed to the outer edges of the bodywork to improve both the handling and the visual swagger.

What Visual Changes Will AMG Bring?

Helping push those wheels into the pavement is another AMG-specific detail, a pop-up rear spoiler mounted at the top of the rear hatch. It’s also likely that the spoiler will be paired with a rear diffuser in the production version, even if we can’t see one on this prototype.

SH Proshots

Also not fully visible on this test car is the AMG grille. We know it’ll be massive, probably carrying over the same basic outline as the new full-height grille that got its first outing on the regular GLC EQ in September, and has since been seen again on the gorgeous Vision Iconic GT concept that broke cover a few weeks after.

However, we’re still waiting to see what AMG has in mind for the grille’s center section and whether it will integrate its now-traditional vertical vanes.

Sporty Cabin, Supercar-Rivaling Power

Less mystery shrouds the interior after spy photographers snuck up close to a parked GLC and fired off some shots revealing the presence of a set of heavily bolstered black and red bucket seats. Expect the door panels and center armrest to be trimmed to match by the time production starts, probably midway through 2026.

Of course, no AMG model would be complete without a gigantic injection of horsepower. Mercedes has so far only revealed one powertrain for the GLC, a 483 hp (490 PS / 360 kW) dual-motor setup for the GLC 400 4Matic that draws juice from a 94 kWh battery to deliver up to 443 miles (713 km) of WLTP range.

Not bad, but the AMG version will leave it for dust if (as rumored) it rocks up with three Yasa axial flux motors and as much as 938 hp (952 PS / 700 kW).

SH Proshots

Among Europe’s more unconventional small SUVs, the Nissan Juke has always stood out for its offbeat quirkiness, and now, it’s preparing to take a major leap forward. A camouflaged prototype of the fully electric, third-generation Juke has been seen undergoing testing on public roads, signaling its progress toward a 2026 market debut.

The upcoming Juke first appeared in an official teaser back in March, sharing the spotlight with the next-generation Micra and Leaf.

More: Nissan’s Smallest Hatch Is Back And It’s Unrecognizable

Interestingly, the EV won’t replace the current combustion-powered model. Instead, Nissan plans to keep selling the petrol and hybrid versions alongside the new electric one, giving buyers a broader mix of powertrains for a while yet.

Even under heavy camouflage, the prototype’s proportions reveal plenty about its direction. Its compact, muscular stance brings to mind the Ford Puma Gen-E, yet the Nissan still shows its personality through angular fender flares, sharp split LED headlights, and a distinctive, tapering greenhouse that nods to the Juke’s earlier generations.

SH Proshots

The tail borrows some cues from the Nissan Kicks playbook, but the rear glass is more slanted, and the tailgate is more sculpted for a sportier look. The prototype rides on futuristic-looking, large alloy wheels finished in black.

We can also see the pop-out door handles on the front doors, and the hidden door handles mounted on the C-pillars – just like in the original. Overall, the design has been significantly toned down compared to the Hyper Punk Concept from 2023.

More: Nissan Fixed The Ariya Right After Ghosting America

While Nissan has yet to share details about the underpinnings of the new Juke, we know that the model will be manufactured at the Sunderland plant in the UK.

Chassis and Powertrain

The new Juke EV is expected to use a shortened version of the AmpR Medium (CMF-EV) platform that also underpins the Leaf and Ariya, both built at the same facility. A smaller-scale alternative could be the AmpR Small (CMF-BEV) platform from the Micra, assembled in Douai, France.

Whatever the choice, a single front-mounted electric motor seems likely, possibly paired with two available battery sizes to broaden appeal and price flexibility within the segment.

When it arrives in 2026, the new Nissan Juke EV will compete with the likes of the Peugeot e-2008, Fiat 600e, Jeep Compass, Opel Mokka Electric, Mini Aceman, Ford Puma Gen-E, as well as the upcoming VW ID. Cross and Skoda Epiq twins.

It’s been three years since Renault bravely reinvented its Megane and Scenic family models as EVs, and in another three years or so, the pair will shake things up again – this time by going back to petrol power.

More: The 4 And 5 Are Eating Megane Sales, But Renault Is Cooking Something

The next generation of both family EVs, due before the end of the decade, could offer a mix of fully-electric and hybrid powertrains, according to comments new Renault Group CEO Francois Provost made to media at last week’s Twingo launch.

What’s Next For Megane And Scenic?

“Bigger cars are one of our priorities,” new Provost told Auto Express magazine, subtly acknowledging that Renault’s electric push has worked well for the little 4 and 5, but less so on grown-up models like the Megane, which is struggling to find buyers.

“In the next mid-term plan we propose a new platform and solutions to continue our ambition to grow in the [compact] C-segment in the heart of Europe.”

That new platform will bring the next generations of the Megane and Scenic together with the next Austral, Espace, and Rafale, which are currently only available as hybrids.

Renault has no plans to abandon electric power for the Megane and Scenic, but will instead strengthen their appeal with more powertrain options to snare buyers still suspicious of anything without a gas tank.

“We also think that if [adoption] is not as rapid as expected, perhaps you can complete this…with some extensions like range extender or plug-in hybrid, and that’s what we are working on,” Renault brand CEO Fabrice Cambolive told the magazine.

Of those two options, a Nissan E-Force-style range-extender solution – where the engine only charges the battery rather than drive the wheels – looks likely to get the nod, Cambolive said.

Refresh In The Meantime

But with combustion power still years away, Renault needs an intermediate plan to boost sales of the Megane and has a couple of ideas up its sleeve. One is an imminent facelift, and we’ve already seen a camouflaged prototype of this revised hatch on test.

The other, likely to arrive at the same time, is a bigger battery. The largest battery currently available is a 60 kWh unit that gives a feeble 285 miles (459 km) of range, but the bigger Scenic has an 87 kWh pack which lasts 382 miles (615 km) between fills, and the Megane’s new Nissan Leaf cousin has a 75 kWh battery that provides a 303-mile (488 km) range.

Sources: Auto Express

Update: Not long after the first prototype of BMW’s upcoming iX4 was caught testing out in the open, digital artists wasted no time trying to imagine what the final production model might look like. The early spy shots offer just enough visual clues to fuel some well-informed renderings, even as BMW keeps the real details under wraps.

More: This BMW M7 Super Sedan Is Too Good To Be Real

With its close ties to the new iX3, connecting the dots isn’t especially difficult, though a few surprises may still surface in the finer details, particularly around the taillights.

Illustrations Sugar Design

These digital interpretations from Sugar Design present a convincing idea of BMW’s next electric crossover, a model positioned squarely against one of the world’s best-selling EVs, the Tesla Model Y.

Both share a similar overall silhouette, marked by a hatchback-style arched roofline and a steeply slanted rear window that lends the iX4 a more dynamic profile, though the BMW shows more individuality in its detailing, particularly around the front fascia.

Original story continues below.

Illustrations Sugar Design

The aging X4 will bow out of production later this month, closing the chapter on BMW’s internal-combustion SUV coupe without a direct ICE successor. Yet the story doesn’t end there.

BMW is already working on a replacement, but it reimagines the formula for the electric age. The all-new iX4 is designed as a sportier counterpart to its square-roof sibling, the Neue Klasse iX3.

Our spy photographers captured the first camouflaged prototype during development testing. At a glance, the iX4 appears to borrow its front end from the iX3, including the headlights, grille, bumper, hood, and fenders.

From the B-pillar rearwards, though, the bodywork tells a different story. The profile has been reworked with a sloping roofline that flows into a fastback-style tail.

SH Proshots

The rear glass is more steeply angled than on the outgoing X4 and carries a discreet spoiler at its tip. Its sportier posture is further accentuated by broader, muscular rear shoulders that appear cleaner and more sculpted than those of the smaller, boxier X2 and iX2.

At the rear, the iX4 features slim LED taillights positioned close together, while the license plate has been relocated to the bumper. The prototype sits on ten-spoke alloy wheels with a diamond-cut finish, though it remains uncertain whether this design will make it to the production version.

Although exact dimensions remain unconfirmed, the iX4 is expected to be marginally longer than the new iX3, which measures 188.3 inches (4,783 mm), while maintaining the same 114.1-inch (2,898 mm) wheelbase. It may also improve upon the iX3’s already low drag coefficient of 0.24 cd.

Inside, the iX4 will mirror the iX3 almost entirely, keeping the same layout, sans some headroom for the rear passengers.

More: BMW M’s iX3 Is Hiding Something Under Its Hood

That means BMW’s Panoramic iDrive stretching pillar to pillar, a 17.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, and an optional 3D head-up display, all running on the new BMW Operating System X.

The new model will be built on the Neue Klasse architecture, meaning it will be offered exclusively as a battery-electric vehicle. Its powertrain range is expected to mirror that of the iX3.

More: BMW’s X1 Will Get A Radical Makeover With Neue Klasse Style And Tech

Currently, the iX3 50 xDrive delivers 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) through dual electric motors, while future variants are expected to include single-motor rear-wheel-drive options and higher-performance M-badged versions.

The BMW iX4 is expected to debut in late 2026. It will be the second fully electric coupe SUV from the Bavarian company, following the iX2 that was introduced in 2023. A larger iX6 is also rumored to follow at a later stage.

SH Proshots

The Twingo is about to enter its fourth generation on November 6, yet a batch of leaked photos beat Renault to the punch, offering a clear look at both its exterior and interior before the official reveal. The little city car seems ready to make a comeback with familiar charm and a new electric heart.

The production version mirrors the 2023 concept almost to the letter. Only some small adjustments stand out, such as traditional door handles, wheel covers, slightly altered LED lighting, and reshaped bumpers with protective cladding for everyday practicality.

More: Renault’s $185,000 R5 Turbo Exposes What’s Really Wrong With EVs

The new Twingo keeps its frog-eyed face, compact one-box profile, and rounded rear that echo the spirit of the 1992 original, now stretched into a larger five-door body.

Altogether, it feels like another well-judged effort from Renault’s design team, following in the footsteps of the slightly bigger R5 that drew attention for its clean styling.

What’s It Like Inside?

Inside, the cabin carries over much of the concept’s personality but tones down the materials for production reality. Hard plastics replace the show car’s high-end surfaces, and the seats now wear traditional fabric upholstery.

The dashboard hosts a floating infotainment screen above a smaller instrument cluster that looks familiar from Dacia’s parts bin.

More: Dacia’s EV Tortoise Just Got A Hare Transplant

Fortunately, Renault has kept physical climate controls on both the center console and the steering wheel. A yellow insert across the dashboard brings a splash of color, joined by an odd red piece between the front seats.

What Powers It?

Unlike its predecessors, the fourth generation of the Twingo will be exclusively available with a zero-emission powertrain. It will ride on the group’s AmpR Small architecture (former CMF-BEV), shared with the larger R5, R4, and Nissan Micra.

Renault has yet to release the detailed specifications, but the city car is expected to be fitted with a single electric motor and use a small lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery.

The Twingo Against The World

In Europe’s A-segment, the Twingo will face competition from small EVs like the Dacia Spring and Leapmotor T03, as well as the upcoming VW ID.Every1 and an unnamed Nissan sibling. It will also overlap with budget-friendly B-segment contenders such as the Fiat Grande Panda and Citroën e-C3 twins.

Back in 2023, Renault’s then-CEO Luca de Meo promised that the new Twingo would start from under €20,000 ($23,000) before subsidies, with lease deals for as little as €100 ($115) per month.

Whether those numbers hold in today’s market remains to be seen. All should be confirmed on November 6, along with the technical breakdown and European rollout details.

Hyundai’s next big (or rather, small) electric debut is edging closer to reality and this time photographers haven’t only captured the upcoming Ioniq 3 testing without heavy disguise, but they got to peek inside and check out a very different interior layout.

Related: Hyundai Gives Its Smallest N Line SUV Sharper Looks And Smarter Tech

The Ioniq 3, a production version of the Three concept Hyundai revealed in September at the Munich motor show, is positioned below the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, being smaller and slightly less sophisticated.

Styling

Where those models ride on the high-spec 800-volt E-GMP platform, the new 3 will use a simplified version of the same architecture running on 400-volt electrics.

That means slightly slower charging and potentially smaller motors, but also a more affordable entry point for Hyundai’s EV lineup, and an internal competitor for the closely related Kia EV4. But their very different designs means the casual buyer will never guess the connection.

These latest images show a clean, confident shape with a sporty low nose, but also a raised ride height that gives the little hatch a more crossover-y stance than the concept had.

The door handles – recessed, not pop-out – and tapering roofline hint at good aerodynamics, and the high-set tail means the silhouette (but not the rising waistline) reminds us of Alfa Romeo’s classic Sud sedan.

New Infotainment System

Inside, the Ioniq 3 looks very different from its Ioniq 5 and 9 brothers, junking their conjoined gauge cluster and infotainment displays for for a super-slim digital instrument pack directly under the windshield and a large, Tesla-style tablet touchscreen mounted above the console.

Also: Hyundai’s New Pleos Infotainment System Looks Like A Tesla Knockoff

Speaking of that tablet-style display, as you can see from the pictures, it appears to be running Hyundai’s new Pleos Connect infotainment system set to launches in 2026.

Built on Android Automotive OS, it adopts a smartphone-like interface with customizable menus and cloud-based user profiles known as Pleos ID, allowing drivers to load their preferences in any Pleos-equipped vehicle.

The system integrates Gleo AI, an intelligent voice assistant designed to handle navigation, media, and vehicle functions through natural conversation.

There’s no sign of the concept’s moveable digital widget blocks, but it’s good to see some hard keys and rotary knobs fitted below the main display.

SH Proshots

Powertrain

Detailed specs are still under wraps, but based on what we know about the Kia EV4 (which is no longer coming to the US) it could comes with 58.kWh and 81.4kWh battery options, and might launch with a single 201 hp (204 PS / 150 kW) motor driving the front wheels.

That setup would give a zero to 62 mph (100 kmh) time of just over 7 seconds and a range of close to 400 miles (644 km).

With the camouflage now lighter and the design details nearly finalized, it looks like the Ioniq 3 is entering the final stretch of development.

Hyundai is expected to pull the covers off the production model midway through 2026. It may be the smallest Ioniq yet, but it could turn out to be Hyundai’s most important.

SH Proshots

If anyone needed a reminder of just how central China has become to the global car industry, look no further than to Volkswagen’s partnership with Xpeng.

Announced last year, the collaboration centers on a next-generation electrical architecture set to support a wide range of future models, from pure EVs to traditional combustion and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Read: VW’s Concepts Mark The Start Of 30 New Models For China’s EV Future

This joint effort is already bearing fruit. Among the first of these shared creations is an as-yet-unnamed sedan from Volkswagen that’s expected to join the ID family.

What Does It Look Like?

Recently seen testing under camouflage on Chinese roads, the upcoming electric sedan is believed to be based on the Xpeng P7, whose second generation debuted only a few months ago, while also reflecting design elements from Volkswagen’s ID. Aura and ID. Evo concepts showcased earlier this year.

Sugar Design

Digital artist Sugar Design produced a series of renderings based on those camouflaged prototypes, and there’s no denying that, compared with several Volkswagen models currently sold in Western markets, it has a distinctly sleeker and sportier presence.

At the front, it features split LED headlights and a small illuminated badge in the center, as well as a large open black grille and smooth lines. It’s nowhere near as radical as the sharp-looking second-gen P7, but for the German brand, it’s still quite a bold shift in style.

The side profile is particularly eye-catching, highlighted by its pronounced rear haunches and a smooth, flowing roofline. At the back, intricate LED taillights frame a softly illuminated VW badge, with a discreet black diffuser completing the look.

What Could Power It

Whether Volkswagen’s upcoming sedan will mirror the Xpeng P7’s specifications is still uncertain, but the P7 itself measures 197.5 inches (5,017 mm) in length and offers two battery options: a 74.9 kWh pack and a larger 92.9 kWh version.

The standard rear-wheel-drive layout produces 362 hp (270 kW) from a single motor, while the all-wheel-drive setup adds a front unit for a combined 586 hp (437 kW). The AWD variant is expected to hit 62 mph in 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 142 mph.

Range depends on configuration, from roughly 436 miles (702 km) in base form to 509 miles (820 km) for the long-range RWD model.

VW’s Chinese Plans

VW is taking the Chinese market extremely seriously. Beyond confirming that its jointly developed electrical and electronic architecture with Xpeng will underpin future EVs, the company has made clear that the same foundation will serve combustion and plug-in hybrid models.

Sugar Design

The new system won’t simply enable over-the-air updates; it’s also designed to streamline vehicle development, cutting production timelines and allowing faster adaptation to market trends.

The German brand has committed to launching more than 30 new models in China, including 20 new-energy vehicles. In addition to working with Xpeng to make these a reality, it is collaborating with partners through the FAW-Volkswagen and Volkswagen Anhui joint ventures.

Sugar Design

BYD is preparing to make its move into one of Japan’s most tightly defined and popular vehicle segments with the Racco, a tiny EV that marks the brand’s first kei car. The pint-sized newcomer was introduced earlier today at the Japan Mobility Show as BYD’s first model designed exclusively for overseas markets.

At first glance, the Racco doesn’t stray far from established kei design cues, and that’s no surprise given the strict size and proportion rules governing the segment.

The windowline and fin-shaped pillars echo the previous-generation Mitsubishi ek Space, while the headlights and stance appear to draw inspiration from the Daihatsu Tanto.

More: Mitsubishi’s New Kei Van Channels Its Inner Pajero

The Racco features a short hood, upright windshield, sliding doors, flat sides, and a near-vertical rear end with almost no overhang. It has a C-shaped LED lighting signature on both ends, and rides on 15-inch alloy wheels. Furthermore, it comes fitted with disc brakes on all four wheels.

The model measures 3,395 mm (133.7 inches) long, 1,475 mm (58.1 inches) wide, and 1,800 mm (70.9 inches) long, in line with the narrow framework for kei cars.

Inside the four-seater cabin amenities include a digital cockpit with a small instrument cluster and a larger free-standing infotainment that is not usually found in the segment. We also expect a comprehensive ADAS suite and a heat pump for the A/C.

Powertrain Specs

BYD didn’t release the detailed specifications of the electric powertrain, but confirmed that the Racco will be front-wheel-drive. We also know it will be fitted with a “Blade” Lithium iron phosphate battery pack, available in two different capacities (short-range and long-range).

More: BYD’s Premium Z Sports Car Is Gunning Straight For Porsche’s Pride

According to reports, the 20 kWh battery will offer around 180 km (112 miles) of WLTC range although numbers remain unconfirmed. The EV is also expected to be compatible with fast charging of up to 100 kW. The floor-mounted battery will give it a lower center of gravity compared to ICE-powered kei cars, improving handling.

BYD plans to open pre-orders for the Racco in the summer of 2026, with sales commencing shortly after. Pricing is estimated to start at around ¥2.5 million ($16,500) before subsidies, positioning it squarely against the Nissan Sakura and Mitsubishi eK X EV.

New LCV For Japan

Besides the kei car, BYD has also unveiled a new light commercial vehicle designed to comply with Japanese regulations that allow it to be driven with a standard driver’s license.

The BYD T35 features a cab-over design and will be available in box van and flatbed configurations. It with fitted with a fully electric powertrain generating up to 201 hp (150 kW / 203 PS) and 340 Nm (251 lb-ft) of torque. The Blade lithium iron phosphate battery is good for a WLTC range of 250 km (155 miles).

The flatbed version is exhibited with a mobile sauna stove and cold bath chiller, both using power from the battery. The market launch of the BYD T35 in Japan is scheduled for 2026.

BYD

Mercedes teased the E-Class with EQ Technology earlier this year and now spy photographers have caught a prototype undergoing testing in Europe. It will replace the slow-selling EQE and feature a more traditional design.

While the prototype is heavily disguised, it follows in the footsteps of the C-Class EQ and could easily be mistaken for that model.

However, a closer inspection reveals an assortment of changes including traditional door handles and side mirrors located at the base of the A-pillar. The E-Class is also longer and appears to have a flatter beltline.

More: Star-Stricken Mercedes GLC EV Has A Grille Big Enough To Swallow A BMW iX3

The disguise hides a number of details, but we can expect an expressive front fascia with a bold grille that echoes the one found on the GLC and C-Class EVs.

We can also get a glimpse of a wide lower intake as well as temporary headlights. The latter will undoubtedly give way to starry production units, which have become a Mercedes hallmark.

The profile closely echoes the standard E-Class, but it looks like the electric variant might be even longer. While it’s hard to be certain at this point, the prototype appears to have extended rear doors and a larger greenhouse.

Baldauf

Out back, there’s a relatively plain rear end with a curved trunk and a subtle spoiler. They’re joined by a sporty bumper that features an integrated diffuser.

Spy photographers didn’t get a look inside, but the electric sedan could follow in the footsteps of the GLC. If it does, the model could sport a massive 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen.

The company has also promised improved noise insulation as well as a Level 3 semi-autonomous driving system.

GLC EQ

Little else is known about the car at this point, but the electric GLC gives us some hints at what to expect. It features a 94 kWh battery pack as well as an 800-volt electrical architecture that enables the crossover to get up to 188 miles (303 km) of range in as little as ten minutes.

The GLC 400 4MATIC has a combined output of 483 hp (360 kW / 490 PS) and a WLTP range of up to 443 miles (713 km). The model also offers an intelligent air suspension and a rear axle steering system that turns the wheels up to 4.5 degrees.

We can also expect a heat pump as well as a ‘one-box’ braking system, which promises to deliver a “steady, assured brake pedal feel” regardless of whether the crossover is using traditional brakes or the regenerative braking system.

Baldauf

Update: For American EV shoppers already feeling left out after Kia’s decision to delay the EV4’s US launch “indefinitely” over what it calls “changing market conditions,” a polite way of saying “no more federal tax credits,” this one might sting a little more.

More: Kia Suddenly Pulls Its Tesla Model 3 Rival Right Before US Launch

The EV4 GT hatchback, recently teased and pictured below, isn’t the only body style of the performance variant on the way. As new spy photos confirm, Kia is also developing an EV4 GT Fastback, which means yes, that one will slip through American fingers too.

SB-Medien

This sedan variant promises a roomier rear section than the hatch thanks to its more conventional silhouette, though the styling at the back is anything but conventional.

Despite the heavy camouflage, telltale signs point to this being the GT model. The chunky tires and the same tall alloy wheels from the GT hatchback are visible, and behind them, we see the neon green brake calipers. Inside, the bright green seatbelts and the matching ring around the steering wheel rim are additional giveaways.

Everything else applied to the EV4 GT Hatch carries over here as well, including the dual-motor powertrain rated at around 400 horsepower and the performance-tuned chassis.

There’s no official debut date yet, though the EV4 GT Fastback is likely to appear either alongside the hatch next year or shortly after. (by John Halas)

Original story on the EV4 GT Hatch continues below.

SB-Medien

Kia has quietly unveiled the EV4 GT, ahead of its market launch in 2026. The performance version of the electric hatchback was shown with a special camouflage wrap that does little to hide its exterior design.

The GT is expected to pack a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup and a round of targeted chassis upgrades. Together, these are designed to place the EV4 GT squarely in the path of both electric rivals such as the VW ID.3 GTX and long-standing combustion favorites like the Golf R.

More: Kia’s 2027 Telluride Finally Shows Its Face Ahead Of LA Reveal

The company used the unveiling of its new GT Wrap as the pretext for a series of teasers. The livery blends glossy black with matte gray and streaks of neon green, described by Kia as a look meant to “evoke energy and speed.”

The same fragmented design theme will carry across all electric GT prototypes during the later development stages.

Sharper Exterior Details

Beneath the custom camouflage, the EV4 GT stays close in shape to the existing GT-Line trim, with only subtle differences. Up front, the performance flagship gains vertical slits in the lower bumper intake, lending a more assertive look.

From the side, diamond-cut alloy wheels hide neon-painted brake calipers, while the rear adopts a GT-specific diffuser with a central vertical LED light cluster. The setup recalls the facelifted EV6 GT crossover, suggesting a family resemblance.

Kia hasn’t released interior photos yet, though early glimpses reveal sportier bucket seats accented in neon.

What Drives It?

The real transformation will happen beneath the surface. Sources point to a dual-motor AWD powertrain producing roughly 400 horsepower, paired with simulated manual shifts and an artificial rev limiter to give drivers more engagement.

The energy source is expected to be the familiar 81.4 kWh battery pack from the long-range FWD variant.

More: There’s A Simple Way To Fix The Kia EV6’s Most Annoying Sound Issue

True to Kia’s GT philosophy, the EV4 GT will receive dedicated chassis tuning, including a stiffer suspension and a quicker steering ratio for more precise handling and livelier responses on winding roads.

Rivals of the Korean model will include the VW ID.3 GTX, Cupra Born VZ, and MG 4 X Power. It will indirectly compete with ICE-powered hot hatches like the VW Golf R and Toyota GR Corolla. Hyundai is also working on its own zero-emission hot hatch, the Ioniq 3 N.

Kia has also confirmed that every future GT model will be fully electric, marking the current K5 GT as the final performance model in the lineup to feature an internal combustion engine.

BMW seems quite content with the early reception of the Neue Klasse iX3, and development is already pressing ahead on new versions of the electric SUV. Some of these will naturally lean hard toward the sharper end of BMW’s performance range, shaped by the M division.

More: BMW Is Cranking Out Cars “Like Pretzels” And Says Even China Can’t Keep Up

Our photographers recently caught a performance-focused iX3 prototype testing on public roads near the Nürburgring. Compared with earlier development cars, this M-badged version looks further along, wearing components that appear nearly production-ready.

What’s BMW Testing Here?

BMW is believed to be preparing not one but at least two M versions of the iX3: an M Performance model expected to carry the iX3 M60 nameplate, and a full-blown iX3 M.

It’s not clear which variant was on test here, though the prototype’s sculpted hood, featuring what appear to be vents, hints that this could be the higher-performance M model.

SH Proshots

That raised section on the hood may serve as either an aerodynamic channel or a cooling duct. If so, because the standard iX3 includes a front trunk, BMW could be trading some of that storage space for M-specific power electronics and/or cooling.

Moving down from the hood, the front bumper sports a more aggressive design than the optional M Sport Package already offered for the standard iX3, though it avoids looking excessive.

There are also new side skirts and lower bumper extensions, with the front likely to reveal larger air intakes once the camouflage comes off. Subtle fender flares and a fresh set of five-spoke alloy wheels give the prototype a more athletic posture.

SH Proshots

At the back, this test car omits the optional spoiler extension shown at the IAA Mobility show in Munich but gains sharper contouring around the bumper.

A redesigned diffuser with a central opening rounds out the treatment, suggesting BMW is leaning toward functional restraint over visual drama, though the final design could still change as testing continues.

More: The Electric M3 Ushers In A New Era Of BMW Design

Beyond the visual tweaks, the SUV will also benefit from a sharper chassis setup for improved handling. The camouflaged prototype appears to ride on a lowered suspension and features larger perforated disc brakes.

How Much Power?

The German carmaker typically introduces M Performance variants first, followed by full-blown M models. The iX3 M60 is expected to debut next year, likely featuring dual electric motors with output comfortably above the 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS) of the iX3 50 xDrive, possibly pushing past the 600 hp mark.

BMW officials have already confirmed that their pure M electric cars will use a setup with four motors governed by an electronic control unit named the “heart of joy.” In theory, this architecture could deliver up to 1,341 horsepower, though that won’t apply to the iX3 M or its sibling, the i3M.

A more realistic figure for the iX3 M would be in the 700 to 800 hp range, with room for higher-output variants later on, perhaps including a Competition model that edges closer to 1,000 hp.

Don’t expect to see the iX3 M reach showrooms before 2027.

SH Proshots

BYD isn’t content with simply selling affordable EVs and plug-in hybrids to the masses. Through its high-end Denza brand, the company is out to challenge Europe’s luxury carmakers, with vice president Stella Li even claiming its vehicles are “ten times better” than those from Porsche and BMW.

Read: BYD Boss Brags Z9 GT Is ‘Ten Times Better’ Than Premium Euro Rivals

Well, those words will soon be put to the ultimate test as Denza is preparing a new sports car targeting the likes of the upcoming Porsche 718 Electric and even the 911.

The upcoming model, known simply as the Z, has already been spotted at the Nürburgring, where a prototype of the all-electric coupe is undergoing testing. The question now is, what exactly can we expect from it?

Denza has been working on this sports model for quite some time, and earlier this year, unveiled it in concept guise. This prototype, despite the camouflage, looks virtually identical to the show car, which is a good thing.

It may not be the most beautiful two-door sports car on the market, but it definitely looks unique and should pack some serious performance.

Concept Car Looks

From a visual standpoint, the front end includes two large air intakes, a small central grille, and LED headlights. There’s also a prominent front splitter to aid in the aerodynamics, as well as a pair of small aero flaps below the bumper. Viewed from the side, the Z looks quite long and has Porsche RS-like louvers on the front wheel arches.

Baldauf

These spyshots also show it sitting on a set of sticky GitiSport GTR3 semi-slick tires, measuring a massive 325/30 at the rear and 275/35 at the front. Clearly, Denza is targeting top-notch performance, necessitating the use of semi-slick tires like these.

The rear of the car is the most intriguing. It features a massive fixed rear wing, a prominent diffuser housed within the bumper, and LED taillights.

What’s Underneath?

Many important technical details about the Z remain under wraps. Denza never specified what kind of powertrain the concept had, but local media speculates the production model will feature a triple-motor system.

The existing Z9 GT already uses this setup and delivers 952 hp. Some sources had suggested power for the Z would be capped at 536 hp, but we’d be surprised if Denza wanted its sleek estate to have more power than its first proper sports car.

If the Z has upwards of 900 hp, it’ll probably be able to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in 3 seconds or less. But, as evidenced by it being tested at the Nurburgring, it won’t just be about straight-line performance. This prototype has a massive set of brakes and will also include Denza’s trick suspension system.

This setup will include a double-wishbone setup at the front with magnetorheological shocks that can change the damping force in 10ms. We have no doubt this will work wonders on a demanding circuit like the Nordschleife.

A Tech-Focused Cabin

The cabin of the Denza Z should be similar to the concept. That likely means a digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment screen, and a small display for the passenger. There will also be loads of plush Alcantara and leather to ensure it has a really premium feel.

Stephen Hancock