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Yesterday — 27 November 2025Main stream

Land Rover’s Owner Built A Baby Land Rover For Less Than A Bespoke Paint Job

  • Sierra returns to India with a design flair worthy of a Land Rover.
  • Production model keeps the concept’s styling and tech-filled cab
  • Launches with gas and diesel engines, with EV and hybrid to follow.

Tata has re-entered the Indian SUV segment with the comeback of the Sierra, reviving a nameplate that has been absent for more than two decades. The reborn Sierra arrives with near concept-car styling, modern technology, and a price tag that feels shockingly affordable for what it offers.

More: JLR’s Parent Company Made An Electric SUV With Drift Mode For Just $25K

The new Sierra first appeared as a concept in 2023, and the production version remains remarkably faithful to that design. Its squared-off silhouette and rugged stance lend it Land Rover vibes, a detail made all the more interesting given Tata’s ownership of JLR.

Premium Looks

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The strong B-pillar and wraparound rear glass nod to the original three-door Sierra of 1991, which stayed in production until 2003. Those retro cues meet contemporary details like glossy black cladding, aluminum-effect skid plates, sculpted rear haunches, and an upright tail capped with full-width LEDs.

Base models sit on 17-inch steel wheels, while top trims roll on 19-inch alloys with a more polished look. The overall design wouldn’t feel out of place alongside a modern-day Freelander or even a compact Defender.

Tata has also given us a glimpse of the upcoming Sierra EV that stands out thanks to a Tesla-like full-width LED bar and a grille-less look for the redesigned front bumper.

The Sierra measures 4,340 mm in length, 1,841 mm in width, and 1,715 mm in height, with a 2,730 mm wheelbase and 205 mm of ground clearance. That footprint plants it squarely among rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Suzuki Grand Vitara / Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, and VW Taigun.

High-Tech Interior

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Step inside and the Sierra greets you with a triple-screen setup: a 10.25-inch digital cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a matching 12.3-inch passenger display.

The options list runs deep, including a 12-speaker JBL system with a dashboard sound bar, ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, ventilated seats, and what Tata calls the largest panoramic sunroof in its class.

More: This Hatchback Is Three Times Cheaper Than A Corolla

Tata promises a roomy and comfortable five-seat cabin, finished with soft-touch materials and offering a 622-litre (22-cubic-foot) boot. The company has also placed strong emphasis on safety, even showcasing a crash test that recreated a vehicle-to-vehicle impact. Standard equipment includes six airbags and an ADAS suite with Level 2+ autonomous features.

Flexible Underpinnings

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The Sierra rides on Tata’s new ARGOS platform (All-Terrain Ready, Omni-Energy, and Geometry Scalable architecture), designed to support multiple powertrain types.

At launch, the Sierra will be available with a naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 105 hp (78 kW / 106 PS), a turbocharged 1.5-liter with 158 hp (118 kW / 160 PS), and a 1.5-liter turbodiesel with 116 hp (87 kW / 118 PS).

More: Renault’s $7K SUV Just Got Sharper And Smarter Without Raising Prices Much

Transmission choices include a six-speed manual, a seven-speed dual-clutch, or a six-speed automatic. All versions are front-wheel drive for now, with selectable terrain modes, but all-wheel drive is planned. Later on, the lineup will expand to include fully electric, hybrid, and CNG options.

Priced To Sell

And that brings us to price, arguably the Sierra’s biggest talking point. Tata has announced a starting figure of ₹11.49 lakh (around $12,800 or about what you’d pay for a bespoke color at Range Rover), which positions it as strong value in its class.

Even so, it lands just above the Hyundai Creta, priced from ₹10.72 lakh ($12,100), which continues to dominate India’s SUV charts.

Orders for the Sierra open on December 16, with deliveries beginning January 16. For now, Tata says the model will be sold exclusively in India, with no export plans on the table.

Before yesterdayMain stream

He Sold His $142K Lucid At A Huge Loss After Just 400 Miles Of EV Reality

  • The owner sold nearly new $142K Lucid Gravity after 400 miles.
  • Broken workplace chargers and no home charger caused the issue.
  • The seller still loves the car and plans to return to EVs eventually.

It’s hard to argue that owning a vehicle with 1,070 horsepower (797 kW) wouldn’t be extremely fun. However, that excitement turns on its head when you realize that there’s nowhere to refuel, or rather in this case, recharge it.

That’s exactly what just happened to a Brooklyn-based Lucid Gravity Dream Edition buyer. After snatching this unique EV up brand new in September of 2025, he ended up selling it just 400 miles later for a huge loss.

More: Lucid’s Cheaper Gravity Lost Hundreds Of Horses But Found You Thousands In Savings

The seller on Cars & Bids shared a photo of the window sticker for this luxury SUV, listing an MSRP of $141,550. When the hammer fell on his auction sale of the car, it brought just $123,000. That’s a painful $18,500 lesson for 400 miles of usage in a little over a month, amounting to $46.25 for every mile he put on the odometer.

Where Do You Plug In?

Why take such a big loss for a vehicle that the owner says is “an awesome car”? It all comes down to charging it up. For the owner, it was almost like buying a Hellcat and then realizing that the closest gas station is 220 miles away.

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Cars&Bids

He says that his initial plan was to charge where he works but then one option after another fell apart until he had to take the loss we’re talking about here.

“I was planning to charge at work but the chargers at my work aren’t working and there is seemingly no plan to fix them. Since I don’t have a charger at home and can’t get one installed this became an unsolvable,” he said in response to a question about the situation.

He then went on to fault his living location, New York, more than anything else.

 He Sold His $142K Lucid At A Huge Loss After Just 400 Miles Of EV Reality

“I tried to find another solution but in NYC most chargers (all the ones convenient to me) were in parking garages where you had to pay exuberant [sic] prices to park in order to use the chargers. I live a busy life so just couldn’t find a workable solution,” he added.

It’s a little ironic that in a city as vast and densely packed as New York, famous for both its wealth and its gridlock, a high-end EV can still be this impractical. For now, he’s out, but he hasn’t sworn off electric power entirely. According to him, he’ll be back behind the wheel of another EV “as soon as [a solution] presents itself.”

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Source: Cars&Bids

European Automakers Won’t Like What GAC And Magna Are Doing

  • GAC will build the Aion V electric SUV at Magna’s plant in Austria.
  • Move helps it avoid European import tariffs on fully built vehicles.
  • Aion V offers up to 466 miles of range and a 181 hp electric motor.

Guangzhou Automobile Group, better known as GAC, is positioning itself to join the growing list of Chinese carmakers setting up shop in Europe to sidestep rising import tariffs. The company has also chosen an established partner to make it happen, teaming up with contract manufacturer Magna to handle production.

GAC has confirmed that its all-electric Aion V will be built at Magna’s facility in Graz, Austria. Over the years, this plant has built several models for a variety of carmakers, including the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Jaguar I-Pace and E-Pace, BMW 5-Series, BMW Z4, and even the Toyota GR Supra.

Read: Does The New Aion V Electric SUV Remind You Of A T-Rex? GAC Thinks So

Recent changes in client contracts have left Magna with open capacity. Several models, including those from Jaguar, have already departed the Graz lines, while agreements with BMW and Toyota will end next year. As a result, the company has been on the lookout for new manufacturing partners.

How Xpeng Does It

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Guido ten Brink/SB-Medien

In September, Magna’s Graz facility began assembling Xpeng’s G6 and G9 SUVs for Europe. The process is somewhat unconventional: the vehicles are built in China, partially disassembled, shipped to Austria, then reassembled for final delivery.

This approach lets Xpeng pay tariffs only on parts rather than complete vehicles, a practical workaround in the current trade climate. Whether GAC’s Aion V will follow the same method remains unconfirmed, though the option certainly seems plausible.

The Chinese company unveiled the Aion V in the second quarter of last year and has been enjoying strong sales in recent months. It is underpinned by the firm’s modular AEP architecture and is equipped with an electric motor producing 181 hp.

Buyers can choose between 62 kWh, 75 kWh, and 90 kWh battery packs, the largest offering a CLTC range of up to 466 miles (750 km).

Global Aspirations

It’s too early to say how popular the Aion V will prove to be in Europe, but it certainly has the potential to sell well and appears to be a compelling alternative to the likes of the Geely EX5 and BYD Atto 3.

GAC plans to launch the SUV in more than 30 global markets, including Australia and various European countries, as it continues to expand its international footprint.

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Kia’s EV5 Weekender Looks Too Good To Stay A Concept

  • Kia unveiled the EV5 Weekender concept with off-road upgrades.
  • It features lifted suspension, wide fenders, and modular accessories.
  • Concept could inspire a production model in the very near future.

Kia has unveiled a new concept at the ongoing Guangzhou Auto Show in China, one that hints at a production model on the horizon. Named the EV5 Weekender, it presents a tougher, outdoors-ready take on the compact electric SUV.

The EV5 is the fourth Kia to wear the Weekender badge, following in the tracks of the EV9, PV5, and Tasman. Each model in the series interprets an outdoor-oriented trim with its own distinct approach.

Review: Here’s Why The Kia EV5 Makes More Sense Than A Model Y

While none of the Weekender concepts have yet transitioned to production, that could change as buyers increasingly look for rugged, lifestyle-oriented versions of these models.

Outdoor Intentions

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The concept was developed by the Kia China Style Design Team. From the outside, the main changes are immediately clear. It sits higher on larger wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, while the lifted suspension gives it noticeably greater ground clearance and a more confident stance.

The SUV wears a matte beige finish accented with lime green details, a color scheme that has become a signature for the Weekender range. It also features a redesigned bodykit with wider fender extensions, new skid plates, chunkier side skirts, a hood insert, and a large roof rack.

Kia even added dedicated mounts on one side of the vehicle for attaching extra equipment, in a similar vein to the Land Rover Defender.

Practical Changes Inside

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The interior has been reworked more extensively than expected for a concept based on an existing production SUV. The wide display now stretches in front of the passenger and is paired with a slim digital instrument cluster.

More: New Kia Telluride Drops V6 For Turbo And Hybrid Fours

Other updates include a new steering wheel, a revised center console, reshaped climate vents, and fresh upholstery with modern colors and a 3D texture.

The cabin is filled with practical touches reminiscent of Dacia’s YouClip system, including cup holders and storage compartments mounted along the sides of the cargo area, as well as extra rails on the roof liner for securing gear.

What’s Beneath It

 Kia’s EV5 Weekender Looks Too Good To Stay A Concept

Kia hasn’t disclosed the technical specifications of the concept, so it’s unclear whether it differs mechanically from the production EV5 beyond its upgraded suspension setup.

The EV5 rides on the E-GMP architecture and is available in FWD and AWD forms with different battery options depending on the region. A GT variant has been confirmed for production, promising a more potent powertrain and sportier handling.

It wouldn’t be surprising if the production EV5 lineup eventually adds a toned-down version of the Weekender concept for buyers who enjoy camping or off-road trips. Kia has a habit of turning its concepts into real models, and this one looks ready to follow the same path.

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GM’s Sporty EV Concept Looks Like The Future Bolt We Were Promised

  • GM’s China studio created a sporty EV concept for local market appeal.
  • Sketches show a grille-less SUV with arrow cues and wraparound glass.
  • The design may inspire future Chevrolet models for Chinese customers.

The world’s largest automotive market has become a linchpin for General Motors, a place where nearly all its brands are striving to secure a stronger presence. To that end, GM’s China Advanced Design studio has unveiled another fresh concept study, a “sporty EV” created specifically with Chinese buyers in mind.

The exploration sketches and renderings were made by GM designer Charles Huang at the company’s Shanghai facilities. They show what looks like a small crossover – some might even see shades of a future Bolt – with oversized wheels and a contrasting bi-tone paint scheme.

More: Buick’s New Concepts Look Suspiciously Ready For Production

At the front, the concept trades a traditional grille for a clean, enclosed surface with split LED headlights and a Chevrolet emblem that may light up. The bodywork is restrained, defined by crisp lines and minimal decorative detailing.

The most striking element is the wraparound glasshouse, framed by a thick C-pillar that seems to clasp the rear of the vehicle. The contrast between the deep blue and black tones amplifies this visual tension.

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GM Design / Instagram

According to the designer, the profile is inspired by a “released arrow”, an idea most evident in the early sketches. The later, photorealistic renderings dial the drama back, edging closer to something feasible for production.

In fact, it’s easy to picture this crossover parked in a Chevrolet showroom, fitted with regular mirrors and door handles, of course, assuming those still have a place in modern EV design.

The presentation on the GM Design Instagram profile doesn’t include any sketches of the interior. We don’t have any specs, either, although a rear-mounted electric motor and a medium-sized battery pack would probably do the job.

More: GM Imagines Tomorrowland’s EVs And They’re Nothing Like Today

 GM’s Sporty EV Concept Looks Like The Future Bolt We Were Promised

The EV seems to have a similar length to the Chinese-spec Chevrolet Tracker RS and the US-spec Bolt. That puts it below the Trailblazer, Trax, Equinox EV, and Blazer currently sold in the States.

While the Chevrolet concept is just a design study with no production intent, GM is working on multiple affordable EVs for the future. It is safe to assume that at least some of them will adopt an SUV bodystyle, possibly similar to the “sporty EV” depicted in the sketches.

Though GM describes the project as a design study with no immediate production intent, it arrives at a time when the company is actively developing several affordable EVs for many markets. It’s likely that some of those models will borrow cues from this study, especially the SUV silhouete.

 GM’s Sporty EV Concept Looks Like The Future Bolt We Were Promised
2027 Chevrolet Bolt

Audi’s AUDI Bets Big On China With A 671 HP Electric SUV That Means Business

  • E SUV concept previews the second model from the AUDI sub-brand.
  • It carries the E5 Sportback’s design language on a larger SUV body.
  • Dual motors deliver 671 hp and promise a 435-mile driving range.

One year after introducing the AUDI sub-brand for China, Audi and its joint-venture partner SAIC are already gearing up for their second production model, following the market launch of the E5 Sportback in September.

The momentum continues with the reveal of the new AUDI E SUV concept at the Guangzhou Auto Show, a preview of an electric SUV expected to reach Chinese showrooms in 2026.

More: Of Course, The New AUDI E5 EV Is Ridiculously Cheap In China

The concept feels nearly production-ready, carrying over the same design cues as its low-slung stablemate. Signature styling cues include the wraparound lights on both ends and the clean surfacing with sculpted fenders.

The electric SUV also features short overhangs, flush door handles, and camera-based mirrors, with fin-shaped C-pillars adding a distinctive profile.

The AUDI emblem now sits prominently on the nose, and at 5,057 mm (199.1 inches) in length with a 3,060 mm (120.5 inches) wheelbase, the concept nearly matches the footprint of the combustion-powered Q7.

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The company hasn’t revealed the interior, though it’s likely to mirror the E5 Sportback’s layout, centered around a vast 27-inch 4K display stretching across most of the dashboard.

The concept also includes the AUDI 360 Driving Assist System, an advanced driver-assistance suite developed specifically for Chinese traffic patterns and road conditions.

The AUDI E SUV is built on the Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), developed jointly with SAIC. Power comes from dual electric motors delivering a combined 671 hp (500 kW / 680 PS) to a quattro all-wheel-drive system.

According to the company, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in roughly five seconds.

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The 800-volt battery pack holds 109 kWh and promises a CLTC range of over 700 km (435 miles). A rapid 10-minute charge can add about 320 km (199 miles), though the figure trails slightly behind the smaller, slipperier E5 Sportback, which stretches to 770 km (478 miles) per charge.

A Stretched A6 e-tron For China

Sharing the spotlight in Guangzhou, the A6L e-tron stretches Audi’s EV presence in the region. This version, built for Chinese buyers, gains 132 mm (5.2 inches) in wheelbase and a subtly revised front end featuring a black trim strip that links the main headlights across a covered grille.

More: Audi’s China-Only EV Deserves An RS Treatment

The cabin features a market-specific infotainment system and enhanced driver assistance features. It runs on an 800-volt electrical system with a 107 kWh battery offering a CLTC range of 770 km (479 miles).

Production takes place in Changchun under the Audi-FAW joint venture, alongside the Q6L e-tron and Q6L Sportback e-tron.

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AUDI’s leadership describes this expansion as part of a sweeping realignment in China. CEO Gernot Döllner called it “the largest model initiative in our company’s history,” noting that five new locally built models have already launched in the latter half of 2025.

Audi China President Johannes Roscheck emphasized the brand’s dual strategy of combining two powertrains and two partners to secure long-term growth. In his words, “local innovation is now part of our foundation,” as the company aims to balance its legacy in combustion engines with a steady acceleration toward electrification.

The plan carries through 2026, with several new models already slated to join the China-specific portfolio.

 Audi’s AUDI Bets Big On China With A 671 HP Electric SUV That Means Business

Porsche’s Electric Cayenne Makes The BMW M5 Look Lightweight

  • New Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric tips the scales at 5,831 pounds.
  • Flagship electric SUV even outweighs the mighty Ford F-150 Raptor.
  • Compared to the Rivian R1S Quad Motor, the Cayenne seems light.

While we’re not convinced there were many Porsche customers clamoring for a high-powered electric SUV, there’s no denying that the new Cayenne Electric boasts some impressive figures, chief among them, the fact that it’s the most powerful series production model ever built in Zuffenhausen.

Read: 1,139-HP Cayenne Electric Is Porsche’s Most Powerful Road Car Ever

In Turbo guise, the Cayenne Electric produces a staggering 1,139 horsepower and sprints from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 2.5 seconds.

That puts it squarely in hypercar territory, yet this is a full-size luxury SUV, complete with every comfort you could possibly need or not need. Porsche also claims it can cover up to 488 miles (785 km) on a single charge when driven in urban conditions.

Still, like many high-performance EVs, the Cayenne Electric’s greatest strength is matched by a significant drawback. Weight remains the elephant in the room, and in this case, it’s a glaringly heavy one.

How Heavy Is Too Heavy?

 Porsche’s Electric Cayenne Makes The BMW M5 Look Lightweight

A look at the technical breakdown for the Cayenne Turbo Electric shows a curb weight of 5,831 lbs (2,645 kg) according to the DIN standard, or 5,997 lbs (2,720 kg) under the latest EU Directive, which factors in a 165-lb (75-kg) driver.

That makes this the heaviest road-going Porsche ever produced. Unless the engineers in Stuttgart have performed some kind of chassis sorcery, hiding that mass will be a serious challenge.

For context, consider the new hybrid BMW M5, a car already heavily criticized, even mocked, for its bulk. The sedan tips the scales at 5,390 lbs (2,444 kg), while the M5 Touring version edges up to 5,530 lbs (2,508 kg). The Cayenne Turbo Electric surpasses both with room to spare.

It also outweighs the Ford F-150 Raptor, which comes in at 5,710 lbs (2,590 kg), and is not far behind the Raptor R at 5,950 lbs (2,698 kg). Even standard versions of the F-150, such as the V8-powered Regular Cab at 4,948 lbs (2,245 kg) and the SuperCrew at 5,038 lbs (2,285 kg), appear relatively light in comparison.

The new all-electric Cayenne is also roughly on par with the Hyundai Ioniq 9, which weighs between 5,523 lbs (2,505 kg) and 5,908 lbs (2,680 kg) depending on the specification. However, it’s worth noting that the Ioniq 9 is a three-row SUV and is longer and wider than the Porsche.

Heavy, But Not the Heaviest

 Porsche’s Electric Cayenne Makes The BMW M5 Look Lightweight

That said, the Cayenne isn’t quite as weighty as the Rivian R1S Quad Motor, which reaches an astonishing 6,824 lbs (3,169 kg). Despite that, the Rivian’s 1,025 horsepower still falls short of the Porsche’s output.

Also: BMW M5 Weighs 1,000 Lbs More Than Its Predecessor, Is Heavier Than Many F-150s!

The launch of the Cayenne Electric comes at an interesting time for the Porsche brand. Not too long ago, it had been planning to only sell the future Cayman and Boxster models with electric powertrains and had been planning a flagship seven-seat SUV, codenamed the K1, to be also sold exclusively as an EV.

Those plans have now shifted. Porsche has confirmed that all of these future models will be re-engineered to accommodate combustion power as well.

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BMW iX3 Beats Its Official Range By Over 120 Miles In Real-World Test

  • BMW’s iX3 50 xDrive completed a 626-mile drive from Hungary to Munich.
  • The team finished with 2 percent battery left, enough for another 12 miles.
  • The SUV used smaller 20-inch wheels and skipped HVAC to save energy.

BMW’s latest step into its electric future comes with more stamina than we expected. The second-generation iX3 , unveiled a few months ago with a projected range of 497 miles (800 km) under the WLTP cycle, has quietly outperformed even BMW’s own estimates, though, as always, there are a few caveats tucked in the fine print.

In a real-world run, the electric SUV managed to stretch its legs to more than 621 miles (1,000 km) on a single charge.

Read: The iX3 Is BMW’s Neue Klasse Future Now With A Surprising Price Tag

Eager to see how far their new creation could really go, a small team from BMW decided to take the iX3 on a proper road trip. They set off from the Debrecen plant in Hungary, where the model is built, and pointed it toward Munich, the automaker’s home base in Germany.

Not only did they complete the 626.1-mile (1,007.7 km) journey, but they did so with 2 percent charge remaining, which could have been enough to travel an extra 12 miles (20 km).

What Are The Caveats?

As you could have probably guessed, the team did everything they could to extend the iX3’s driving range. For example, they avoided highways during the journey, sticking to smaller and lower-speed roads where the SUV’s regenerative braking system would be most effective.

Additionally, the iX3 was equipped with smaller 20-inch wheels, rather than the 21- and 22-inch wheels it’s also available with. They also didn’t use the heating, cooling, or radio during the test, to save as much energy as possible.

BMW picked the iX3 50 xDrive, the only version announced to date, which has a pair of electric motors delivering 463 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque, meaning it can hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 4.7 seconds, and a sizeable 108.7 kWh battery pack.

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Tesla Quietly Made The Model X Hundreds Of Pounds Lighter Without Anyone Noticing

  • Tesla made the 2026 Model X lighter through gradual updates.
  • Weight savings came from motors, battery packs, and panels.
  • The Model X now weighs less than BMW’s iX, despite being larger.

The Tesla Model X of today might appear almost unchanged from the version that debuted back in 2015, yet beneath that familiar silhouette lies a machine that has been subtly reworked over time. Its interior is more refined, and in flagship Plaid form, it delivers enough pace to frighten a supercar.

However, what most people don’t realize is that the latest Model X also weighs significantly less than the original, even though the two look virtually identical.

Weight Loss, Electric Style

In an era when every new car seems to gain weight, the Model X has quietly gone the other way. Added safety tech, larger batteries, and ever-expanding lists of standard features typically push curb weights upward. Yet a 2026 Model X is almost 400 pounds (181 kilograms) lighter than its 2016 counterpart.

Sounds like witchcraft, right? It’s not. Instead, Tesla has gradually refined the Model X over the years.

Speaking with Car and Driver, which recently weighed a Model X at 5,219 lbs (2,367 kg), Tesla’s vice president of vehicle engineering Lars Moravy, noted that the original model had a heavy induction-type motor at the rear wheels. Now, it sports a lighter permanent-magnet motor and new half-shafts, an improvement that has saved roughly 100 lbs (45 kg).

Read: Model S / X Get Small Tweaks And Big Price Hikes

Additionally, Tesla changed the Model X’s battery pack in 2021 to include more energy-dense cells, allowing it to ditch 300 cells. Alongside improvements to the pack’s structure, this allowed the Model X with its fancy Falcon wing doors to shed a further 90 lbs (41 kg). Further weight-saving measures were adopted for the Model X’s most recent 2026 update.

Every Ounce Matters

 Tesla Quietly Made The Model X Hundreds Of Pounds Lighter Without Anyone Noticing

Roughly 80 pounds (36 kilograms) have been trimmed from the EV’s interior. Moravy explained that Tesla now uses thinner materials throughout the cabin and has integrated airbag components directly into the headliner.

The five-seat version sheds another 50 lbs (22 kg) thanks to the removal of the trunk pedestal mounting. Tesla also tweaked the seatbelt mounting and structure to save 6 lbs (2.7 kg) and cut 44 lbs (19.9 kg) worth of high-voltage wiring. Moreover, the Plaid features fewer radiators, saving an extra 30 lbs (13.6 kg).

Large aluminum megacastings in the Model X’s body construction account for a further 20-pound (9-kilogram) reduction while improving overall rigidity. Even the front and rear fascias have been slimmed by 0.6 millimeters, a small change that removes another 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms).

Did Anything Get Heavier?

 Tesla Quietly Made The Model X Hundreds Of Pounds Lighter Without Anyone Noticing

Admittedly, not every change went in the same direction. Heavier wheels, hubs, and improved sound insulation added some bulk back, yet the 2026 Model X remains light for an electric SUV.

At roughly 500 pounds (227 kilograms) lighter than a BMW iX xDrive50., it stands as proof that careful engineering and incremental refinement can still trim weight without compromise.

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1,139-HP Cayenne Electric Is Porsche’s Most Powerful Road Car Ever

  • Porsche reveals ’26 Cayenne Electric and Cayenne Turbo Electric.
  • Base car makes up to 435 hp, Turbo kicks out a massive 1,139 hp.
  • Adaptive air suspension is standard, inductive charging optional.

The original Cayenne supercharged Porsche’s sales, and 23 years later, the third-generation car is still the brand’s best-seller. But now the nameplate is heading into new territory with the launch of the 2026 Cayenne Electric, a battery-powered twist on the formula using lessons learned from the smaller Macan EV.

Related: Porsche’s Next Hybrids Could Get A Trick New Electric Motor

This isn’t just an electrified version of the familiar Cayenne. The new electric models ride on an entirely different platform, a version of the PPE architecture used in the Macan Electric, but stretched 5.1 inches (130 mm) to give a 119-inch (3,020 mm) wheelbase.

That wheelbase is also longer than the combustion Cayenne’s by the same amount, resulting in a healthy increase in rear legroom for passengers.

But enough about what the ruler says. Does the Cayenne Electric rule over its ICE brother when the light turns green? Damn right, it does.

There are two flavors at launch: the Cayenne Electric and the mighty Cayenne Turbo Electric. Both are all-wheel-drive, both are loaded with tech, and both are clearly designed to make you question why you ever cared about cylinders.

Most Powerful Porsche Ever

Let’s start with the showstopper. The $163,000 (plus $2,350 dest) Cayenne Turbo Electric’s dual-motor powertrain generates 844 hp (857 PS / 630 kW) in normal driving, but the Push-to-Pass boost, activated by a button on the steering wheel, throws in an additional 173 hp (177 PS / 130 kW) for 10 seconds at a time.

And the madness doesn’t end there, because with Launch Control activated, you can unleash up to 850 kW, which translates to 1,139 hp (1,155 PS) and 1,106 lb-ft (1,500 Nm) of torque.

Porsche says its most powerful production car ever goes zero to 60 mph (97 kmh) in 2.4 seconds – versus 3.1 seconds for the fastest combustion Cayenne, the Turbo GT – and gobbles up the standing quarter-mile in 9.9 seconds. Top speed? An ample 162 mph (260 km/h). Welcome to Porsche’s new performance reality.

The ‘regular’ $109,000 Cayenne Electric is plenty slower, but hardly tame. It produces 402 hp (408 PS / 300 kW) in normal driving and up to 435 hp (441 PS / 324 kW) when Launch Control is engaged. That output, and the 615 lb-ft (834 Nm) that goes with it, delivers you to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 143 mph (230 km/h).

Brakes Optional

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Both trims also deliver serious energy recuperation, with braking that can feed up to 600 kW back into the battery. Porsche claims that about 97 percent of routine braking situations never need to involve the physical brakes, though you can still opt for PCCB carbon rotors if you feel inclined.

Adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management is standard, and the Turbo adds a torque-vectoring rear differential. Both variants can be optioned with rear-axle steering and Porsche Active Ride, using active anti-roll bars, as on the Taycan, is also available.

The new 113 kWh battery pack is the heart of both models and is 13 kWh bigger than the one in the Macan Electric. Thanks to 800-volt architecture and improved cooling, the Cayenne Electric can charge at up to 400 kW under ideal conditions. A jump from 10 to 80 percent takes less than 16 minutes.

Porsche is also introducing optional inductive charging, becoming the first automaker to offer the tech on an EV in the US. Pull into your garage, park over the floor pad, and the SUV starts charging by itself at up to 11 kW.

Like A Scaled-Up Macan Electric

 1,139-HP Cayenne Electric Is Porsche’s Most Powerful Road Car Ever

On the styling front, Porsche resisted the temptation to reinvent the Cayenne silhouette too radically. Instead, it sharpened it, bringing in some tricks from the Macan EV. The bonnet sits lower, the headlights are slimmer, the body lines crisper, and the doors feature frameless glass.

Out back, a 3D-effect light bar and illuminated Porsche lettering add nighttime pizzazz. Turbo Electric models get extra contrasting bits in a color called Turbonite, which sounds like something a Marvel villain would wear.

The Cayenne Electric’s new shape isn’t just for show. A drag coefficient of 0.25 makes it one of the most slippery SUVs in its class. Hidden aero flaps, a smart roof spoiler, and trick aero blades help it slice through the air and squeeze out more range. Porsche says the system constantly adjusts to changing speeds and loads, adding grip when needed and cutting drag when it’s not.

And if you’re more interested in cutting through rock trails than cutting through the air, an Off-Road Design package brings different front and rear bumpers to improve the approach and departure angles.

 1,139-HP Cayenne Electric Is Porsche’s Most Powerful Road Car Ever

Related: New Cayenne Electric Packs More Screens Than A Vegas Buffet Of LEDs

Inside, rear passengers get more legroom and electric seat adjustment as standard, interior surface heating, and a panoramic roof that uses liquid-crystal tech to alter its opacity.

Then there’s the digital experience. The new Flow Display stretches across the dash with two large OLED screens for gauge cluster and infotainment duties. A 14.9-inch passenger display is optional.

There’s also an epic 87-inch head-up display with augmented reality guidance available, a new AI-driven Voice Pilot, and an upgraded app system with streaming and gaming baked in. That’s a lot of tech, but at least Porsche kept physical buttons for things like climate and volume.

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A Long Wait

US deliveries of the 2026 Cayenne Electric start in late summer 2026, by which time we’ll be able to fill in blanks that include those all-important EPA range figures and maybe confirmation of the rumored mid-ranking Cayenne S with around 592 hp (600 PS / 441 kW), designed to bridge the gap between the two launch models. We’re also expecting to see the GTS badge appear at some point, as it has recently on the Macan Electric.

But don’t worry, if you’re a committed ICE fan, the combustion and plug-in hybrid versions of the Cayenne aren’t going anywhere, as they will live on well into the 2030s.

All the pictures above show the Cayenne Turbo Electric. The images in the gallery below are of the regular Cayenne Electric.

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Porsche

Jeep’s $65,000 Recon Is Surprisingly Fast, But Can It Outrun The EV Slowdown?

  • 2026 Recon is fully electric with dual motors, 650 hp and 620 lb-ft.
  • Trail-rated Jeep does zero to 60 mph in 3.6 secs, has 250-mile range.
  • Launches with $65,000 Moab trim: 33-inch tires, 9.1 inches clearance.

Jeep is taking another swing at zero emissions adventure with the 2026 Recon, the first fully electric, Trail Rated Jeep, one that packs sports car-level acceleration, and promises real off-road ability. But the timing might raise eyebrows.

With EV sales slowing, companies like Ram scrapping planned electric utilities and Jeep’s first EV, the Wagoneer S struggling for sales, is this the right moment to launch a $65,000 electric off-roader?

Also: The 2026 Grand Cherokee’s Biggest Surprise Is Hiding Under The Hood

The Recon range will expand in time but for now Jeep is launching with just one trim, the dirt-lovin’ Moab. It comes with a single motor mounted at each end of the 112.9-inch (2,870 mm) wheelbase platform, the pair together pushing out numbers that are strong, even if they don’t set any EV records.

What Powers Jeep’s Electric Trail Machine?

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The Recon delivers 650 hp (659 PS) and 620 lb-ft (841 Nm) of torque, which is 50 hp (51 PS) and 3 lb-ft (4 Nm) more than the priciest version of Jeep’s first US EV, the road-biased Wagoneer S that rides on the same STLA Large platform.

It also hits 60 mph (97 kmh) in a speedy 3.6 seconds and claims a 250-mile (155 km) range from its 100 kWh battery, compared with 3.4 seconds and 294 miles (473 km) for the Launch Edition Wagoneer S. But that inconsequential difference in acceleration, and rather more worrying range gap is the price you pay for genuine off-road chops.

Only the Recon gets Jeep’s Trail Rated stamp of approval, the one you’ll have seen on vehicles like the Wrangler, meaning it’s passed a series of tough tests to prove its ability to ford water and clear obstacles that would make a crossover cry.

Mud or Midtown?

To earn that Trail Rated badge the Moab features 33-inch tires and a 15:1 final drive at the rear for extra torque multiplication when things get messy. It has selectable locking differentials Selec-Terrain driving modes, including a Rock mode that’s exclusive to the Moab, and Selec-Speed Control to make light work of steep inclines or rocks.

The 100-kWh battery is protected by a full set of steel skid plates, and suspension components like large CV joints and half shafts have been beefed up to handle all that torque.

Unlike the solid-axle Wrangler, the Recon’s suspension is independent via short-long arm (SLA) at the front and integral link at the back. And it skips the combustion SUV’s vague recirculating ball steering for a modern rack and pinion setup.

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That bodes well for on-road comfort, where the Recon operates mostly as a RWD vehicle, but what about those all important off-road angles? A 33.8-degree approach, 23.3-degree ramp and 33.1-degree departure angle are no match for the new V8-powered Wrangler Moab 392’s 46.7, 24.5 and 39.8-degree stats.

Some of that can be chalked up to the 193.3-inch (4,911 mm) Recon being almost exactly the same length as a Wrangler, but riding on a 5.5-inch (140 mm) shorter wheelbase, and having far less daylight beneath its floorpan.

The Recon loses the ground clearance battle by a big margin, 9.1 (231 mm) inches playing 11.1 inches (282 mm) in the Wrangler Moab, and up to 12.9 inches/328 mm on other Wranglers.

Classic Jeep Design With a Modern Edge

 Jeep’s $65,000 Recon Is Surprisingly Fast, But Can It Outrun The EV Slowdown?

Still, that’s more trail ability than 99 percent of people will ever need, and at least the Recon looks the part. The design stays true to Jeep’s roots with a boxy stance, upright grille and four-square proportions.

The illuminated grille rings, flush door handles, and contrast roof options give it a modern edge without losing the heritage feel, buyers also getting the option to replace the standard dual-plane sunroof for an optional Sky One-Touch power top.

And yes, you can remove the doors, the swing gate glass and the quarter windows, for those really hardcore adventures without needing any special tools.

Try that in your Rivian R1S. Moab trim brings a few design tricks of its own, including tough-looking black coloring for the front and rear fascias, the fender flares, uniquer badge and an anti-glare hood graphic.

Jeep’s Biggest Screen

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The cabin sticks to the adventure theme, blending durable materials with forward-looking tech and looking nothing like the inside of a Wagoneer S. A horizontal dashboard layout and grab handle nod to classic Jeep interiors, but a 26-inch digital display area stretches across the dash made up of a 12.3-inch digital cluster and 14.5-inch touchscreen – the biggest in any Jeep – running Uconnect 5.

That screen’s generous dimensions should make it easier to see the pitch and roll mapping on the automaker’s Trails App, as well as checking out the camera views. And if you want to bring your own camera, a modular accessory rail is ready for your GoPro.

Related: Stellantis Spends $13 Billion To Revive Jeep And Dodge In America

Audio comes from a standard Alpine system, and Jeep has even relocated the speakers under the seats so the sound doesn’t vanish when you pop the doors off.

How Much Does It Cost?

The 2026 Jeep Recon EV will be built at Jeep’s Toluca Assembly Plant starting early next year, priced at $65,000 for the Moab trim. But expect that price to fall later as other trims, and less powerful motor setups become available – or just through massive discounts if the Recon proves as tricky to sell as the Wagoneer S.

No doubt, Jeep is taking a bold bet on a market that’s still figuring out what it wants. How do you rate the Recon’s chances?

 Jeep’s $65,000 Recon Is Surprisingly Fast, But Can It Outrun The EV Slowdown?

Ford Fixes Puma Gen-E’s Biggest Weakness And Adds A Clever Upgrade

  • Ford updated the Puma Gen-E for 2026 with improved driving range.
  • The figure now matches rivals thanks to Ford’s optimised battery design.
  • The small SUV adds BlueCruise for hands-free highway driving capability.

The Ford Puma returned in 2019 as a compact SUV, followed by a mid-cycle update in 2024 and the arrival of the fully electric Gen-E later that year. Now, Ford has introduced a subtly revised 2026 version of the EV, delivering a longer driving range and more advanced driver assistance features.

The standout figure is an improved WLTP range of 400 km (249 miles), up by 24 km (15 miles) from the outgoing model. Within the urban cycle, the 2026 Ford Puma Gen-E can manage up to 550 km (342 miles), which should mean fewer plug-in stops for most owners.

More: Ford Quietly Ends Focus Production After 27 Years Without Even Saying Goodbye

The added distance comes from an “optimised battery design” that maintains the same 43 kWh capacity. Ford hasn’t specified whether that figure applies to the base Gen-E with 17-inch wheels or the Premium trim on 18-inch alloys.

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Power remains at 166 hp (124 kW) and 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) of torque, sent to the front wheels through a single electric motor.

That 400-km WLTP rating positions the Puma Gen-E well within its segment, closely matching rivals such as the Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica, Jeep Avenger, Fiat 600e, Opel Mokka Electric, Peugeot E-2008, Renault 4 E-Tech, and Mini Aceman. Even so, it still trails the Kia EV3 Long Range, which claims up to 604 km (375 miles) on the same cycle.

Hands-Free Driving

Starting from spring 2026, the smallest Ford in Europe will be available with the BlueCruise system, allowing hands-off highway driving as part of the optional Driver Assistance Pack. The technology is gradually spreading across the range, now confirmed for the Kuga and Ranger PHEV as well.

More: A Ford Bronco Just Took Google Street View Where No Camera Had Gone Before

Since its European debut in 2023, BlueCruise has expanded to 16 markets and covers more than 135,000 km (84,000 miles) of approved highways.

Any Visual Changes?

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Predictably, there are no styling updates, with the Puma Gen-E retaining its grille-less design. The rest of the bodywork is shared with the facelifted mild-hybrid version.

The same goes for the interior, with the digital cockpit comprising a 12.8-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12-inch infotainment. Another highlight of the Puma is the “Gigabox” storage compartment under the boot. The cargo capacity is 574 liters (20.3 cubic feet) at the back and another 43 liters (1.5 cubic feet) in the frunk.

The 2026 Ford Puma Gen-E is open for orders in the UK, priced from £26,245 ($34,500). That’s unchanged from the current model, though it now benefits from updated local incentives.

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Ford

Jeep’s Next Renegade Isn’t Going All-Electric After All

  • Second-generation Jeep Renegade will debut within the next two years.
  • SUV keeps a similar footprint, placed between the Avenger and Compass.
  • It will offer multiple powertrains, including a fully electric BEV version.

The Jeep Renegade first appeared in 2014, carving out its place as a compact SUV with global reach. Over the years it has seen updates and regional variations across Europe and South America, but time has caught up with it.

More: Jeep Avenger Vs Dacia Duster – Which Budget Small SUV Deserves Your Money?

Jeep is now developing a long-anticipated successor, scheduled to arrive by 2027, aiming to refresh the smallest member of its off-road family without losing the character that defined the original.

Between Avenger and Compass

The upcoming Renegade will be sold in both North America and Europe, marking the nameplate’s return to the US market after the current generation was discontinued following the 2023 model year. It will slot beneath the Compass as Jeep’s most compact American offering, while sitting just above the Avenger in the European lineup.

Marco Montepeloso, Head of Jeep Product Planning in Europe, recently spoke with Auto Express about the Renegade’s future role.

He confirmed that the next generation will keep a similar footprint to today’s model, which measures 4,236 mm (166.8 inches) in length. This size positions it neatly between the 4,084 mm Avenger (160.8 inches) and the 4,550 mm Compass (179.1 inches), placing it toward the upper end of the sub-compact SUV class.

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The current Jeep Renegade e-Hybrid in Europe after the 2024 facelift.

Montepeloso drew a clear line between the Avenger and the Renegade, noting that customer data shows little overlap.

“Looking at the customer analysis, there is a clear difference between a four-metre-long car that mainly addresses the needs of compactness for some European buyers, and a bigger 4.25 to 4.3-metre-long vehicle that caters more to young families or active lifestyles,” he told Auto Express. “These people need extra space, whether it’s in the second row or the boot.”

He added that the two models serve distinct audiences, leaving a healthy gap for the Renegade to occupy. “I don’t see a risk of cannibalisation,” he said. “There are clear differences in customers, and that’s exactly why there’s a strong opportunity for the Renegade between Avenger and Compass.”

Design Direction

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Jeep Renegade concept study created by independent designer Marco Maltese

Jeep has yet to reveal the design of the next Renegade, but its visual cues will likely align with the brand’s evolving aesthetic. Expect a compact, upright stance anchored by the familiar seven-slot grille, framed by modern LED lighting and more defined wheel arches.

Short overhangs and a solid ground clearance should preserve the Renegade’s capable look, while the cabin is expected to balance technology and practicality with durable materials and physical controls alongside a digital display setup.

Earlier this year, independent designer Marco Maltese imagined his own take on a next-generation Renegade through a digital study, blending Jeep’s rugged styling cues with sharper, more contemporary proportions.

Updated Foundations and Powertrain

The next Renegade will finally move away from its aging FCA-era underpinnings in favor of a more advanced Stellantis architecture. The leading candidate is the STLA Small platform, a development of the CMP and eCMP structures already used for the Avenger and several other compact vehicles across the group.

More: Canada’s Furious As Stellantis Boss Gets Grilled Over Jeep Move

While originally planned as an EV-only, Jeep’s European boss strongly hinted that it won’t be the sole option. Mild-hybrid variants with both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations are expected, helping the brand navigate an increasingly unpredictable market landscape.

Montepeloso described this as a core principle for Europe, saying that “Freedom of Choice” remains central to Jeep’s approach. “If you want to be relevant in all markets, you need to have a wide offering of powertrains,” he said. “We need to stick with this philosophy, giving customers freedom. It’s essential for sales and for staying adaptable as regulations evolve.”

Pricing and Competition

 Jeep’s Next Renegade Isn’t Going All-Electric After All
The Jeep Avenger (above) and the new Compass (below)
 Jeep’s Next Renegade Isn’t Going All-Electric After All

The Jeep Renegade is set to stand among the more rugged contenders in the subcompact / B-SUV segment, sharing that space with the Dacia Duster.

Its competition will also include Stellantis stablemates like the Citroëen C3 Aircross and Opel Frontera, though those models lean more toward budget-minded buyers. Beyond that, the new Renegade will have to go up against the VW T-Roc, the next-generation Peugeot 2008, and the fully electric Renault 4 E-Tech.

Jeep has stated that the electric Renegade will reach North America by 2027 with a starting price below $25,000. However, since that figure previously included the now-discontinued $7,500 tax credit, the real-world starting price will likely climb to just over $30,000.

In Europe, the model will sit between the Avenger and Compass in the lineup, with pricing expected to begin below €30,000 (around $35,000).

 Jeep’s Next Renegade Isn’t Going All-Electric After All

Source: Auto Express

Stellantis’ Secret Weapon Against Chinese EVs In Europe Turns Out To Be A Chinese EV

  • Leapmotor has introduced a smaller fully electric SUV, named A10/B03x.
  • It will be sold in China and Europe with a range of up to 311 miles.
  • A related small electric hatchback will reportedly join the lineup soon.

Update: This story now includes new photos and fresh details on the Leapmotor A10 / B03x, following its world premiere at the Guangzhou Auto Show in China and Stellantis’ confirmation of its launch in Europe.

Stellantis’ Chinese partner Leapmotor continues to expand its model lineup, this time setting its sights on one of the most competitive corners of the market: small SUVs. Its latest offering is called A10 in China and B03x in Europe, positioned below the slightly larger B10.

The new EV made its first public outing at the Guangzhou Auto Show and has also been confirmed by Stellantis for European markets including Germany. The SUV is expected to be joined by a mechanically-related small hatchback set to be unveiled in 2026.

More: Stellantis Wants To Rebrand Chinese EVs For Europe

The bodywork reflects the smooth surfacing and rounded contours seen across Leapmotor’s lineup, complemented by a Citroen-like wraparound greenhouse, discreet plastic cladding, and LED lighting with darkened clusters. The graphics on the taillights look like smiling emojis, adding a playful note to the rather generic design.

The model rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and will be available in six shades – including the pictured Seaweed Green and Acorn Brown. A roof-mounted Lidar unit and visible sensors along the profile indicate that the model will include a full suite of advanced driver-assistance systems.

New Platform And Modern Tech

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According to the company, the SUV measures over 4,200 mm (165.4 inches) long, 1,800 mm (70.9 inches) wide, and 1,600 mm (63 inches) tall, with a wheelbase of over 2,600 mm (102.4 inches), placing it within the small SUVs segment.

More importantly, the A10/B03x is the first model to ride on Leapmotor’s new global A-Segment platform. While technical details remain undisclosed, the EV will be fitted with an “extremely high-energy-density LFP battery” offering a CLTC range of 500 km (311 miles), most likely combined with a single electric motor.

More: Stellantis’ Leapmotor Found An Unlikely Ally In Germany’s Tuning Scene

While no interior photos were released and the show car’s windows remained heavily tinted, the cabin is expected to carry on Leapmotor’s familiar minimalist theme, combining a large infotainment display with a clean, uncluttered dashboard and seating for five. The company promises generous space inside, an AI-driven cockpit, and full over-the-air update capability throughout the vehicle’s life cycle.

The A10/B03x and the related supermini are both planned for European release, joining the T03, B05, B10, and C10 already offered there. In China, Leapmotor’s lineup is broader, spanning the B01 and C01 sedans along with the C11, C16, and D19 SUVs.

Who It’s Up Against?

 Stellantis’ Secret Weapon Against Chinese EVs In Europe Turns Out To Be A Chinese EV

At home, the A10 will go head-to-head with the BYD Yuan Up (also known as the Atto 2), priced between ¥96,800 and ¥119,800 (equivalent to about $13,600–$16,900 at current exchange rates).

In Europe, it will enter a crowded field of compact electric crossovers including the Citroen e-C3 Aircross, Opel Frontera Electric, Renault 4 E-Tech, Kia EV3, Peugeot E-2008, Fiat 600e, Jeep Avenger, Alfa Romeo Junior, Ford Puma Gen-E, and the forthcoming VW ID.Cross and Skoda Epiq.

Stellantis says the B03x is intended for “rational customers who are looking for an affordable yet high-quality second vehicle, as well as newcomers to electric mobility who are switching from a compact car with a combustion engine, without wanting to compromise on safety, space or intelligent technology.”

Joint Venture And Growth

 Stellantis’ Secret Weapon Against Chinese EVs In Europe Turns Out To Be A Chinese EV

Stellantis holds a controlling 51 percent stake in Leapmotor International, the joint venture managing the Chinese brand’s distribution across Europe, Southeast Asia, and other regions outside China. The partnership followed Stellantis’ €1.5 billion ($1.73 billion) investment in Leapmotor back in 2023.

Between January and September 2025, Leapmotor delivered 395,516 vehicles globally, a 129% increase year-on-year that pushed its cumulative sales past the one-million mark. October extended its winning streak to a sixth consecutive month of record-breaking results, with 70,289 units sold.

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Audi’s Making A Defender Rival Out Of The Scout In America

  • Audi plans its first US built vehicles to ease pressure from tariffs.
  • New range extender SUV uses a Scout platform built in South Carolina.
  • Defender-sized SUV is designed specifically for the American market.

Audi is stepping up its assault on the North American market by finally doing something its BMW and Mercedes rivals have been doing for years: building vehicles inside the US.

Related: Audi’s New 4×4 Could Blend Scout DNA With G-Class Swagger

The VW-owned luxury brand already lagged behind its opposition in terms of stateside sales, but its lack of a US plant means it’s been particularly hard-hit by the tariffs, since it relies on imports from Europe and Mexico. Now it plans to tackle that problem with a new luxury SUV aimed at the Land Rover Defender and produced in the US.

Built by Scout

 Audi’s Making A Defender Rival Out Of The Scout In America
The interior of the Scout Traveler SUV.

The secret SUV will be a range extender hybrid designed specifically for the US market and will be built locally. But that doesn’t mean Audi is about to commission a new factory of its own on American soil, German website Automobilewoche reports.

Instead, it will build the SUV at the Blythewood, South Carolina, plant currently being constructed by VW-owned Scout Motors, which hopes to begin rolling out Scout trucks and SUVs by late 2027.

Scout, a utility brand launched by International Harvester in the late 1950s but dormant since 1980, was resurrected by VW in 2022 and plans to launch with two vehicles, the Scout Traveler SUV and Scout Terra truck.

Scout’s new models have ladder-frame chassis, which would be a first for Audi, and four-wheel drive systems with proper locking differentials. Although Scout offers both fully electric and range-extender powertrains, over 80 percent of reservations are for the range-extender, CEO Scott Keogh told Bloomberg recently.

 Audi’s Making A Defender Rival Out Of The Scout In America
Scout

While the full EVs can travel for 350 miles (563 km) on their 120 kWh batteries, the range-extenders offer around 500 miles (800 km) of range, only 150 miles (240 km) of which comes from their smaller battery.

What Could it Look Like?

Although Audi hasn’t revealed any images of its tough new SUV, and we’ve yet to see it in spy shots, we have had strong hints from the automaker that one is on the way.

Earlier in 2025, Audi debuted the Q6 e-tron Offroad Concept, which featured portal axles and a massively increased ride height to underline how serious Audi is about building a more off-road-focused machine.

Though Audi used the Q6 as a base for that concept, the real SUV, probably due in 2028, will be much bigger and almost certainly boxier, as imagined in these images below from @theottle.

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@theottle

New Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup May Break With A Long-Standing Tradition

  • Reports from Japan say Toyota is developing two new Land Cruisers.
  • One is an SUV and the other a pickup truck, both coming to US too.
  • Both models may offer electric or hybrid options when they debut.

Toyota has broadened the ever-expanding Land Cruiser family with the smaller, more accessible FJ. The catch? It’s only available in select Asian markets. But fear not, as according to a new report, this might just be the start.

A new SUV and pickup duo is said to be in the works, potentially marking a turning point for the storied Land Cruiser name.

More: Toyota’s Baby Land Cruiser FJ Looks Retro Enough To Break Your Heart

All Land Cruiser models since 1951 have been built on rugged ladder-frame foundations, defined by their focus on durability, reliability, and off-road prowess.

A Softer Side of Land Cruiser

Now, according to unnamed inside sources cited by Japan’s Best Car, an upcoming pair of Land Cruiser SUV and pickup, described by those same insiders as “the beginning of a new chapter”, are set to break from that long-held tradition.

Both are said to adopt a unibody structure, favoring on-road comfort and daily drivability over the usual body-on-frame toughness.

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While these reports should be taken with a measure of caution, they immediately call to mind two familiar concepts: the Toyota EPU pickup truck and the larger, three-row Land Cruiser Se SUV, both shown at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.

According to Best Car, the forthcoming pickup will share styling cues with the EPU, which measured 199.6 inches (5,070 mm) in length and featured an extendable rear bed.

That setup would clearly set it apart from the new generation Hilux, Tacoma, Tundra, and Land Cruiser 70 Series trucks, all of which continue to rely on traditional body-on-frame construction.

Electric Roots, Flexible Future

 New Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup May Break With A Long-Standing Tradition

Both of the 2023 concepts were fully electric, pairing large battery packs with all-wheel drive systems. Production versions could evolve from Toyota’s e-TNGA platform or shift to a different unibody layout that supports hybrid powertrains. That approach would align with Toyota’s broader “multi-pathway” philosophy, as demonstrated by the new Corolla concept.

More: Forget The Slate, Toyota Wants To Make A Cheap Small Truck For America

The report indicates that the new pickup could debut as early as 2027. Earlier coverage suggests the production version of the Land Cruiser Se SUV may arrive a year sooner, in 2026, to coincide with the 75th anniversary of the nameplate.

Will They Come to the US?

 New Toyota Land Cruiser Pickup May Break With A Long-Standing Tradition
The new Toyota Land Cruiser FJ will not be offered in America or Europe.

What is more interesting, but hardly surprising, is that the aforementioned pickup and SUV could be sold in North America. Current information points to the upcoming electric Land Cruiser being built in the US, which makes sense given ongoing tariff challenges and Toyota’s major push into local manufacturing, recently underscored by a $10 billion investment commitment.

Adding to this, Toyota officials have admitted they are considering an affordable pickup for the US market, a role that could be fulfilled by these new two new Land Cruiser models.

An electrified Land Cruiser pickup could go head-to-head with Ford’s forthcoming Ranger-sized EV or the eventual successor to the compact Maverick. Either way, it’s clear Toyota is positioning itself for a broader, more flexible future. We’ll be watching closely as these plans take shape.

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Source: Best Car

Ford Challenges Tesla With Hands-Free Driving For Mass Models In Europe

  • Ford’s BlueCruise expands to the Puma, Kuga, and Ranger in Europe.
  • It enables hands-off, eyes-on driving across 135,000 km of highways.
  • Available from spring 2026 within the optional Driver Assistance Pack.

Ford is widening the reach of its “hands-off” driving tech, showing just how quickly features once kept for top-tier models are filtering into everyday vehicles. BlueCruise now targets the brand’s most accessible SUVs in Europe, giving buyers a taste of advanced driver assistance without having to climb the price ladder.

Besides the Puma and the fully electric Puma Gen-E, the system will soon be offered on the Kuga compact SUV and the Ranger PHEV midsize pickup as part of an optional Driver Assistance Pack.

The BlueCruise made its European debut with the Mustang Mach-E in 2023, before gradually expanding from the UK to 16 countries across the continent.

More: Ford Racing Is Readying A Secret ‘Road Car’ For January

Starting from spring 2026, Ford’s small and compact SUVs and its midsize pickup will also be offered with the hands-free system. That leaves only the VW-based Capri and Explorer EVs, the Transit/Tourneo range, and the ICE Mustang without access to the technology.

 Ford Challenges Tesla With Hands-Free Driving For Mass Models In Europe
From left to right the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Puma, Kuga, Puma Gen-E, and Ranger PHEV.

The BlueCruise, which is based on the Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, allows the driver to take their hands off the wheel while keeping their eyes on the road. It manages acceleration, braking, and steering, with cameras and sensors monitoring traffic, lane markings, and even the driver’s gaze and head position to ensure attentiveness.

More: Ford’s Ranger Street Truck Just Got Louder And Greener With New PHEV Punch

In Europe, the BlueCruise can be activated on over 135,000 km (84,000 miles) of highways, which are marked as “Blue Zones”. For example, one could use it to travel from Stockholm to Rome, covering 2,000 km (1,500 miles) across six countries and totaling around 25 hours of hands-free driving.

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Globally, Ford and Lincoln owners have logged over 888 million km (552 million miles) using BlueCruise-equipped vehicles. However, the majority of those were most likely covered in North America.

The company says that the tech will be available in “selected new model year vehicles” of the Puma, Puma Gen-E, Kuga, and Ranger PHEV starting in spring 2026. Subscription options and pricing for the Driver Assistance Pack will be announced closer to that date.

The BlueCruise is currently available in select European markets, including Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden.

New Genesis GV90 Swings Open Its Massive Rolls-Royce-Style Coach Doors

  • The Genesis GV90 has been spied with its coach doors open.
  • The crossover eschews a B-pillar, just like the Neolun concept.
  • An all-new platform could underpin the EV when it debuts.

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.”

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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.

 New Genesis GV90 Swings Open Its Massive Rolls-Royce-Style Coach Doors
The Genesis Neolun Concept

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).

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New Nissan Juke Spied Looking Like A Japanese Ford Puma

  • Fully electric third-generation Nissan Juke was spotted testing in Europe.
  • It will be built in Sunderland, UK, alongside the Leaf and Ariya models.
  • The current ICE-powered Juke will remain on sale alongside the new EV.

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.

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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.

 New Nissan Juke Spied Looking Like A Japanese Ford Puma

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.

 New Nissan Juke Spied Looking Like A Japanese Ford Puma
The official teaser by Nissan (above) and our exclusive rendering created by Josh Byrnes (below).
 New Nissan Juke Spied Looking Like A Japanese Ford Puma

VW’s First Electric SUV With Xpeng Has A Glowing Wolf Logo

  • VW unveiled the ID. Unyx 08 in China, based on the ID.EVO concept.
  • The196.9 inch-long electric SUV closely retains the concept’s design.
  • Offered with single or dual motors, it delivers up to 435 miles of range.

Six months after unveiling the ID.EVO at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, Volkswagen has released photos of the production version, now officially named the ID. Unyx 08.

It’s a fully electric SUV scheduled to go on sale next year, joining VW’s steadily growing electric lineup in China. The introduction of this model reflects the brand’s continued push into the world’s largest EV market, where new entries arrive at a relentless pace.

More: VW’s Next Electric Sedan Looks Nothing Like You’d Expect

The ID. Unyx 08 is the newest model to roll out of Volkswagen Anhui, the joint venture between JAC Motors and the German automaker. The EV was developed through Volkswagen’s collaboration with Xpeng, with more models to follow in the near future including an electric sedan.

The exterior design stays remarkably close to the original concept, retaining its clean, sculpted surfaces, frameless doors, blacked-out A-pillars, and prominent rear shoulders. A cool touch is the illuminated wolf badge on the third brake light under the rear spoiler.

 VW’s First Electric SUV With Xpeng Has A Glowing Wolf Logo

How Much Has Changed From The Concept?

A closer look reveals only minor changes for production. The headlights and taillights have been reshaped slightly, while new shut lines appear on the hood and tailgate. You’ll also spot visible ADAS sensors, flush-fitting door handles, and light adjustments to the front bumper intake and rear diffuser.

In one of the official images, the SUV sits on the same five-spoke alloy wheels as the concept, featuring a copper diamond-cut finish and Brembo brake calipers.

Volkswagen hasn’t released interior photos yet but confirmed that the Unyx 08 will feature an onboard AI assistant and L2++ driver assistance. Based on current trends in China’s EV sector, it’s safe to expect a large central infotainment display complemented by a compact digital instrument cluster behind the steering wheel.

 VW’s First Electric SUV With Xpeng Has A Glowing Wolf Logo
The production-spec ID. Unyx 08 (above) compared to the ID. EVO concept (below).
 VW’s First Electric SUV With Xpeng Has A Glowing Wolf Logo

Specifications

The SUV measures 5,000 mm (196.9 inches) in length, 1,954 mm (76.9 inches) in width, and 1,688 mm (66.5 inches) in height, with a wheelbase stretching 3,030 mm (119.3 inches).

That makes it 318 mm (12.5 inches) longer than the U.S.-spec Tiguan and 101 mm (4 inches) shorter than the Atlas, though its wheelbase surpasses both.

More: VW Ending Its Longest-Running SUV After Two Decades With A Farewell Edition

Unlike some rivals offering range-extender setups, the ID. Unyx 08 will be sold exclusively as a battery-electric model. It’s built on an 800V electrical architecture and will come in single- and dual-motor versions, promising a CLTC range of more than 700 km (435 miles).

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Data from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) lists the rear motor at 308 hp (230 kW / 313 PS) and the front motor at 188 hp (140 kW / 190 PS), producing a combined 496 hp (370 kW / 503 PS) in the all-wheel-drive configuration.

Power comes from a CATL-supplied lithium-iron-phosphate battery, though capacity details remain undisclosed.

When it goes on sale in 2026, the ID. Unyx 08 will become the third model in the expanding Volkswagen Anhui lineup, joining the smaller ID. Unyx 06 crossover, which is based on the Cupra Tavascan, and the ID. Unyx 07 sedan.

It will soon be joined by another electric sedan with similar styling that will share its underpinnings with the Xpeng P7.

Volkswagen plans to launch 30 new models through its joint ventures in China, with 20 of them being electrified.

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