The UK government has just detonated a policy bomb under Britain’s electric-car market. Hidden inside the Chancellor’s Budget announcement is confirmation that both EVs and hybrids will face a new per-mile road charge, marking the first time electric motoring will stop being a tax-free ride.

After years of looking for a replacement for fuel duty as petrol and diesel sales decline, the Treasury has finally shown its hand.

Related: Your Green Plug-in Hybrid Is An Eco Sham, Study Finds

Britain is officially preparing to tax EVs for every mile they travel, shifting them into the same revenue-raising category as combustion cars even as it still claims to support the transition to cleaner transport.

How Will It Work?

Drivers of fully-electric cars will pay 3 p ($0.40) per mile and plug-in drivers are to be stung with a 1.5 p ($0.20) charge.

A driver covering up to 8,500 miles (13,700 km) will end up with a bill of around £255 ($336), the BBC reports, which is still roughly half of what a combustion-car driver would pay in fuel duty to drive the same distance.

The Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) estimates the plan would bring in £1.1 billion ($1.45 billion) in its first year, a figure which could virtually double two years later, depending on how EV sales go. The trouble is, their take-up is expected to be hit by the introduction of this very scheme.

When and How?

The Budget didn’t include all the fine print. Important details such as how the number of miles driven will be accurately logged, comes later. But mileage-based charging is definitely coming, scheduled to kick in from April 2028.

Some US states, including Oregon, already have mileage-based charging schemes, as does New Zealand.

To soften the blow and keep drivers interested in EVs, the UK government is simultaneously raising the price threshold for the “expensive car supplement” on its VED from £40,000 to £50,000 ($53-66k) starting April 2026. That means a Tesla Model Y or Kia EV6 owner won’t be hit by punitive road-tax surcharges quite as quickly as before.

In other words: here’s a little carrot before we get to the pay-per-mile stick. Ministers will also extend the EV grant scheme – which offers subsidies of up to £3,750 ($4,950) – all the way to 2029-30, costing it around £300 million ($395 million) per year.

SUVs may dominate sales charts across Europe, yet compact hatchbacks still hold a quiet appeal that refuses to fade. Following the facelift of the Peugeot 308, Stellantis is turning its attention to the updated Opel Astra, a sibling in spirit and a direct contender for the VW Golf’s enduring territory.

The sixth-generation Astra (L), launched in 2021, marked a clean break from its GM past, adopting Stellantis architecture for the first time. Four years on, it’s due for a mid-lifecycle update designed to keep it relevant in buyers’ minds and strengthen its position against Opel’s steadily expanding SUV range.

More: Irmscher Wants To Turn Opel Astra Into A Widebody Hot Hatch

The teaser hints at mild styling revisions, with most of the attention centered on the front end. The Opel Vizor grille now incorporates broader LED elements framing the illuminated Opel Blitz badge.

Together, these create what the company refers to as the Opel Compass, a design signature that will appear across all upcoming models.

Elsewhere, there are signs of larger bumper intakes and a more contemporary alloy wheel design featuring three double spokes and a two-tone finish. The rear looks mostly unchanged, though subtle adjustments to the bumper may help refine its proportions.

Besides the traditional five-door hatchback, Opel has confirmed that the facelift will also be applied to the Astra Sports Tourer wagon.

More: Stellantis Wants To Rebrand Chinese EVs For Europe

CEO Florian Huettl described the refreshed Astra lineup as one that will “delight customers with new, even sharper and more precise design highlights as well as innovative technologies.”

Inside, that likely means a reworked cockpit with larger digital displays, new trim combinations, and an upgrade to the latest driver-assistance systems.

Powertrain Parity

As for the powertrain lineup, it will likely follow the same structure as the facelifted Peugeot 308. That range includes a 1.5-liter turbodiesel producing 129 hp (96 kW / 130 PS), a mild-hybrid 1.2-liter turbo petrol with 143 hp (107 kW / 145 PS), a 1.6-liter plug-in hybrid delivering a combined 192 hp (143 kW / 195 PS), and a fully electric version rated at 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS).

Opel is set to release full details of the facelifted Astra soon. Once it arrives, it will face a competitive field still led by the VW Golf and the related Peugeot 308, while also contending with the Toyota Corolla and Hyundai i30, as traditional players like the Ford Focus and the Renault Megane have recently abandoned the segment.

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

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

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

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.

Scout Motors drew headlines last year for far more than just reviving a classic brand. It read the tea leaves and decided to launch with both an EV and an extended-range powertrain. Now, as production approaches, we’re getting a clearer view of the final design that customers will soon see in their driveways.

Spoiler alert: it’s almost a mirror image of the early promotional vehicles, apart from a few subtle design tweaks. Extensive testing, though, has been underway for months.

Read: Scout Motors Says Over 80% Of Buyers Picked A Surprising Powertrain

Cody Thacker, VP of commercial operations at Scout, told Autonews that the brand is “very quickly getting to something that looks and feels like real production vehicles,” as multiple generations of testers rack up miles across continents.

The brand already finished its first round of cold-weather testing in Sweden and is preparing for another bout of deep-freeze evaluation.

What Changed Over the Concepts?

From a design standpoint, only a handful of alterations separate the early prototypes from the final shape. Chief design officer Chris Benjamin told the news outlet that while the prototypes’ elegant daytime running lights gracefully bleed into the metal of the front and rear quarter panels, that execution proved too intricate, too expensive, and too complex to stamp at scale.

So instead, the production version will use a “cool insert” that preserves the visual intent without breaking manufacturing budgets.

Under the skin, Scout still plans on both powertrain options, but it’s already benefiting from its initial plan. Since it didn’t commit solely to one or the other, it’s got the flexibility to delay EV production while market demand catches up.

In the meantime, it can build the EREV and sell it. Pre-production is set for late 2026 with customer deliveries in 2027. By that time, the EV market might have another uptick. Either way, Scout will have something to offer.

Built From Strong Partnerships

The platform itself benefits deeply from the VW/Rivian joint venture, leveraging Rivian’s electrical architecture as a base layer for Scout’s durability-focused hardware. Batteries, meanwhile, will come from VW Group’s in-house PowerCo network.

Scout is still publicly targeting a sub-$60,000 entry point, but final numbers will depend on material costs and powertrain mix. Also still undecided is whether the Traveler and Terra will launch simultaneously. As for when series production begins? Scout just says to “stay tuned.”

Source: AutoNews

Shortly after introducing range-extended and fully electric versions of the Bronco Basecamp in China, Ford opened the order books for its newest off-road offering. While most eyes may still be on the familiar Bronco lineup in the West, this China-market version makes a strong case of its own.

Read: Ford’s Electrified Bronco Arrives In China With A Pop Up Roof Surprise

As we’ve come to expect from pretty much all new cars sold in China, the electrified Bronco is affordable by Western standards and is bound to make some US buyers feel stewing.

Although it bears more than a passing resemblance to a scaled-up and refreshed Bronco Sport, the Basecamp wasn’t drawn from the same blueprint. Instead, it was developed through Ford’s joint venture with Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC), which has increasingly become the brand’s partner of choice for locally tailored models.

Ford’s foothold in China has eroded significantly over the past decade, with annual sales dropping from over 1.2 million units in 2014 to fewer than 200,000 last year. A model like this, combining familiar design cues with drivetrain options built to local tastes, might just help reverse that disastrous slide.

What Do You Get For The Money?

Ford has confirmed the new Bronco Basecamp will start at 229,800 yuan ($32,300), topping out at 282,800 yuan ($39,800). That pricing roughly mirrors the smaller Bronco Sport sold in the US, which starts at $31,695 and tops out at $40,115 before delivery charges and taxes. But in China, buyers get significantly more than just a roomier body.

Where the American Bronco Sport comes with either a 1.5-liter turbo three-cylinder or a 2.0-liter turbo four, the Basecamp goes fully electric with a 105.4 kWh battery and twin motors generating 445 hp. On a full charge, it’s rated for up to 404 miles (650 km).

Then there’s the range-extender version. This alternative setup pairs a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with dual electric motors and a 43.7 kWh battery pack. The result is 416 hp and a claimed 137 miles (220 km) of electric-only range. Thanks to the engine topping up the battery as needed, total driving range stretches to 758 miles (1,220 km) on China’s optimistic CLTC cycle.

Longer, Wider, Better?

The new SUV shares its 116.1-inch (2,950 mm) wheelbase with the full-size four-door Bronco sold in the US, offering a noticeably longer body than America’s more compact Bronco Sport, which measures just 105.1 inches (2,670 mm) between the axles.

At 197.8 inches (5,025 mm) in overall length, it also outstretches both of its siblings, eclipsing the standard Bronco by over eight inches and the Bronco Sport by more than two feet.

This Chinese model is also laden with other important features. This includes a roof-mounted LiDAR as part of a suite of more than 30 sensors and cameras, enabling advanced driver assistance functions.

The cabin is also a far cry from the American Bronco and Bronco Sport and includes a 15.6-inch infotainment display, a digital gauge cluster, and a 70-inch head-up display.

It might not wear the Bronco badge in quite the same spirit as the American original, but for China’s EV-hungry buyers, that may not matter much. For now, Ford has no plans to export the Bronco Basecamp, and even if that changes, North America almost certainly won’t be on the list.

EV adoption in India, the world’s most populous nation, has been slower than policymakers anticipated, but the country’s Supreme Court now believes it may have found a new lever to accelerate change.

The judges have urged the government to consider a gradual phase-out of luxury ICE cars, arguing that a targeted approach could push cleaner mobility without disturbing the broader market.

Also: EU May Quietly Ban Gas Rentals Starting In 2030

The bench suggests that withdrawing luxury and premium models with combustion engines, including hybrids and plug-in hybrids, could act as a test case for a measured “phased transition” toward electric mobility.

According to Autocar India, EVs already account for around 12 percent of sales in the premium segments, far higher than the 2–3 percent share seen among mass-market models.

Could a Luxury Ban Spark an EV Shift?

Critics point out that luxury vehicles represent a tiny fraction of India’s automotive landscape, arguing that the proposed ban would have a limited impact on national emissions. Others blame the weak scrappage policy for the country’s aging fleet of cars and LCVs which poses a far bigger pollution problem.

Others point instead to the weak vehicle scrappage framework, which leaves aging cars and light commercial vehicles on the road far beyond their prime, an issue that poses a much larger pollution challenge.

More: ‘We’ll Be Driving Full Speed Into The Wall’ Warns Mercedes Chief On Europe’s EV Future

Even so, the court maintains that an EV-only requirement for high-end models would send a clear signal without harming affordability for the masses and disrupting the nation’s new car market.

As India Today reports, Justice Kant noted that carmakers already offer a range of premium electric models matching the comfort and performance of their combustion counterparts.

He explained, “Since these vehicles cater to a very small and affluent segment, imposing restrictions on high-end petrol and diesel cars can be a starting point. The common man will not be affected.”

The Government’s Willing To Discuss

Luxury brands such as Mercedes and BMW already maintain substantial zero-emission lineups, yet an internal combustion ban would inevitably reshape their operations in India, bringing possible ripple effects for local employment and supplier investment.

More: EU May Quietly Ban Gas Rentals Starting In 2030

For now, the idea remains a proposal without firm timelines. However, the Supreme Court has asked the government to review its National Electric Mobility Mission Plan, with another hearing scheduled for December.

India’s Attorney General confirmed that the administration is “alive to the idea,” citing ongoing coordination across 13 ministries and departments, covering everything from manufacturing incentives to charging infrastructure.

Sources: Autocar India, India

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.

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

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

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).

Source: Auto Express

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

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.

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.

@theottle

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.

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

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?

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.

Source: Best Car

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.

Toyota has announced plans to invest an additional $10 billion in the United States over the next five years. The company didn’t say where the money is going or what it will fund, but it will bring their total U.S. investment to nearly $60 billion.

While the automaker was coy on specifics, the move comes amid tariffs and pressure from the Trump administration to build more vehicles in the United States.

Just last month, the White House said “Toyota plans to export its U.S.-made vehicles to Japan and open its distribution platform in Japan to U.S. automakers.”

The country also decided to allow sales of American-made vehicles and “U.S. safety-certified vehicles” without additional testing.

An American Battery Plant

Putting politics aside, Toyota Battery Manufacturing North Carolina has officially opened and begun production. Located in Liberty, the $13.9 billion plant is the company’s eleventh manufacturing facility in America and Toyota’s only battery plant outside of Japan.

It’s expected to generate up to 5,100 jobs and be capable of producing 30 GWh of battery capacity annually. While the opening comes shortly after the clean vehicle tax credit was eliminated, Toyota noted the plant has 14 battery production lines that support not only electric vehicles, but also hybrids and plug-in hybrids.

Speaking of which, batteries made at the plant will be used in the Camry Hybrid, Corolla Cross Hybrid, and RAV4 Hybrid. It will also make batteries for the company’s upcoming three-row EV.

While production is just getting started, Toyota plans to open additional assembly lines by 2030. The company also noted that once construction is complete, the facility won’t just be a workplace as it will also house a pharmacy, a medical clinic, a fitness center, and on-site childcare.

Toyota Motor North America CEO Tetsuo Ogawa remarked, “Today’s launch of Toyota’s first U.S. battery plant and additional U.S. investment up to $10 billion marks a pivotal moment in our company’s history. Toyota is a pioneer in electrified vehicles, and the company’s significant manufacturing investment in the U.S. and North Carolina further solidifies our commitment to team members, customers, dealers, communities, and suppliers.”

Mercedes has kicked off the teaser campaign for the new generation GLB, ahead of its debut on December 8. It follows in the footsteps of the CLA and features a high-tech interior with seating for up to seven people.

Details are still under wraps, but Mercedes confirmed that the GLB will feature an optional MBUX Superscreen. The setup is expected to combine a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14-inch central infotainment screen and a matching 14-inch passenger display.

More: 2026 Mercedes GLB Spied With Gas And Electric Power

Buyers will also find the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System, which features an MBUX Virtual Assistant with avatars as well as Google Maps navigation. We can also expect plenty of artificial intelligence.

Technology aside, the GLB has circular air vents and a floating center console. The latter houses large cup holders and an available wireless smartphone charger. They’re joined by a new steering wheel as well as five- and seven-seat configurations.

What Else Is New Inside?

Mercedes wasn’t ready to talk numbers, but they revealed the redesigned crossover has “noticeably more headroom in the first two rows of seats.” Second-row passengers will also find additional legroom, added thigh support, and an adjustable backrest.

Third-row occupants haven’t been forgotten as entry and egress has been improved. When not needed, the rear seats fold into the load floor.

A panoramic glass roof comes standard and customers can upgrade to a fancier version that can transition from clear to opaque in a matter of milliseconds. Customers can also get an illuminated roof that features a “starry sky.”

Speaking of the roof, it features heat-insulating laminated safety glass as well as an infrared-reflecting coating. Mercedes says this keeps the interior cool in summer, while also minimizing heat loss in winter.

The GLB will come with a “comprehensive range of driver assistance systems.” These will be supported by “eight cameras, five radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and a water-cooled high-performance computer with sufficient power reserves for future functions and regular over-the-air updates.”

Testing Continues

With a debut less than a month away, the automaker is wrapping up testing at the Mercedes Technology Center in Sindelfingen. As part of this effort, the GLB is being subjected to cold-weather testing in climatic wind tunnels that can simulate temperatures of up to -40° F (-40° C).

Mercedes added the tunnels have cutting-edge snow cannons that can “simulate fierce blizzards where snowflakes race towards the test vehicle at speeds of up to 124 mph (200 km/h).”

These tests appear to have paid off as the upcoming GLB EQ heats the interior twice as fast as its predecessor on a 20‑minute drive in temperatures of 19.4° F (-7° C). This undercuts the heating time of a conventionally powered model and it uses half the energy as the outgoing EQB.

The company went on to say the added efficiency increases range and can be partially chalked up to an innovative heat pump. It collects waste heat from the electric motors and battery as well as from ambient air.

Electric And Hybrid Powertrains

SHProshots

Mercedes didn’t mention performance specifications, but the GLB EQ will presumably have an 85 kWh battery pack as well as at least two powertrains. The entry-level variant could have a rear-mounted motor developing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque.

We can also expect a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing a combined output of 349 hp (260 kW / 354 PS) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque.

Customers can also look forward to an assortment of hybridized powertrains that consist of 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. In the European CLA, this provides 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).

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

Toyota has just unveiled the new generation of the Hilux, and while the new model has barely touched showroom floors, it’s already been reimagined to showcase just how far owners can take customization.

More: New Toyota Hilux Debuts Sumo-Inspired Looks And EV Option

During the truck’s official launch in Thailand, the brand presented a lineup of rugged, modified builds, blending genuine factory accessories with a few aftermarket touches to hint at the model’s versatility.

GR Flavor in Full Effect

The display featured no fewer than six distinct takes on the pickup, each aimed at a different type of driver. One stood out for its GR Parts catalogue treatment, equipped with a black grille, red skid plate, glossy black fender extensions, branded side steps, and black wheels wrapped in chunky off-road tires.

Accessories from Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division didn’t stop there. The brand also showcased roof and bed racks, plus the signature red mudflaps familiar to GR-badged models.

A GR Sport version of the new Hilux is expected to follow, with a tougher stance, refined performance, and chassis upgrades tailored to those seeking a sharper drive.

Interestingly, the GR Parts build wasn’t the star of the show. That honor went to an off-road-focused version developed by Australian tuner ARB, which looked ready to tackle almost anything.

It sat higher thanks to a lift kit and wore a rugged front bumper with clearance cutouts, auxiliary LEDs, a roof rack, a side awning, and a bed rack designed for specialized gear.

Overlanding Camper

Still, what caught our eye was an overlanding camper conversion of the Hilux with a tent mounted on a custom bed rack. The adventure-packed model came with a lifted suspension, all/terrain tires, beadlock wheels, rock sliders, a skid plate with integrated lights, an LED bar on the roof, and an aerodynamic snorkel.

More: Toyota Hilux Transforms Into A 6×6 Military Truck Ready For Battle

Another rugged example took a different visual route, wearing a matte gray-and-red color scheme with a snorkel, protective hardware, raised suspension, and carbon-plated tailpipe. Mudflaps and new wheels rounded out its stance.

Unlike the European and Australian Hilux, which come exclusively in double-cab form, the Thai-market truck is available in Standard Cab and Smart Cab configurations.

The Standard Cab provided the base for a particularly practical build featuring a lift kit, black wheels, white-and-black graphics, extended mirrors, and a metal cage that expanded the load capacity of the open cargo area.

More: Toyota Hilux Champ Shows Off Its Customization Potential

Rounding out the lineup was a sportier, road-focused Hilux finished in yellow with a carbon-textured wrap for the hood and tailgate. It sat lower on new wheels, backed by uprated brakes, though the heart remained unchanged, a 2.8-liter turbodiesel producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS).

Depending on the market, the new Hilux range will also include mild-hybrid diesel, petrol, and fully electric options, underscoring its global versatility.

Available Accessories

Toyota Thailand’s official website lists a comprehensive range of add-ons for the new Hilux. Among them are additional plastic cladding for the doors, larger wheel arch extensions, door handle covers, a rear spoiler, stainless steel exhaust outlets, and bed liners.

Owners can also choose underbody protection and metal-look garnish for the taillights, tailgate, hood, and bumper intakes. Inside, options include heavy-duty floor mats, aluminum scuff plates, and clever storage solutions.

Thailand has a prominent tuning culture, which is why most automakers advertise the customization capabilities of their trucks. Judging from the aforementioned builds and the popularity of the Hilux, we expect to see a lot of interesting conversions in the future.

While the Ford F-150 dominates North America, the Toyota Hilux continues to reign just about everywhere else. Now entering its ninth generation, Toyota’s workhorse returns with sharper styling, a thoroughly redesigned cabin, reinforced ladder-frame underpinnings, and, for the first time, a fully electric powertrain.

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

The new design theme, dubbed “Cyber Sumo,” takes a different path from the hammerhead styling found in other recent Toyota models. Up front, slimmer LED headlights flank a body-colored honeycomb grille, while angular bumper intakes and a solid skid plate add a functional, squared-off presence.

The fully electric version wears a unique front bumper with a closed grille and redesigned intakes, a subtle cue to its zero-emission identity.

The profile remains familiar because the greenhouse, pillars, and doors carry over from the outgoing model that’s been around since 2015. Even so, re-sculpted front and rear fenders with boxy wheel arches, paired with fresh wheel designs, give it a tougher stance.

At the rear, the Hilux shows more definition than before, with sharper LED taillights and a modernized bumper that now incorporates practical side steps similar to those on the Ford Ranger.

Its footprint stays consistent with its predecessor at 5,320 mm in length and a 3,085 mm wheelbase. Toyota has chosen to offer only the dual-cab version in Europe and Australia, while markets such as Thailand retain the Single Cab and Smart Cab configurations.

How Has The Interior Changed?

The cabin has been thoroughly overhauled, blending modern tech with the Hilux’s traditionally utilitarian nature. A boxy dashboard frames a free-standing 12.3-inch infotainment screen (8-inch in the base Thai-spec model) and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster (7-inch in lower trims). Importantly, physical controls remain for core functions such as climate and audio, preserving tactile ease of use.

The chunky steering wheel with buttons is borrowed from the Land Cruiser, while the compact gear knob and drive mode selector sit on the center console. Dual storage compartments line the passenger side, and dashboard-mounted cupholders complete the layout.

Toyota has also expanded the Hilux’s safety credentials with a “significantly extended” suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, bringing it in line with the brand’s passenger car range.

Multiple Powertrain Options

Toyota’s “Multipathway” approach to propulsion continues here, and the new Hilux exemplifies it. Depending on the market, buyers can choose from the familiar 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine in regular or mild-hybrid form, as well as a 2.7-liter gasoline option.

The biggest leap, however, is the all-electric version. It uses dual electric motors producing a combined 193 hp (144 kW / 196 PS), powered by a 59.2 kWh battery pack.

Toyota quotes a range of 240 km (149 miles) under the WLTP cycle, or just over 300 km (186 miles) using NEDC standards. It may not rival long-range EVs, but Toyota plans to add a hydrogen fuel-cell variant by 2028.

Payload and towing capacities remain robust: up to 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs) and 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) respectively for internal combustion models. The Hilux BEV, with its heavier battery setup, carries 715 kg (1,576 lbs) and tows 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs).

Upgraded Underpinnings

Under the skin, the Hilux rides on an upgraded version of the IMV ladder-frame architecture of its predecessor rather than moving to the more modern TNGA-F used by the Tacoma and Land Cruiser. 

Still, it benefits from a new electric power steering, new engine and cabin mounts for reduced vibrations, new front rail extensions for improved crash perfromance, and a revised suspension setup.

The suspension setup combines independent coil springs at the front with a rigid rear axle supported by leaf springs. Toyota Australia says there are two distinct calibrations: one tuned for heavy-load and towing performance, and another focused on everyday ride comfort.

More: Toyota Shrinks Its Hilux Champ Into The Super Short Wheelbase

In terms of off-road credentials, the 4×4 versions use a part-time 4WD system with high and low range ratios, now improved with the standard fitment of a rear locking differential and the available Multi-Terrain Select system.

Pricing and Availability

Production remains centered in Thailand, where the diesel-powered Hilux Travo is already on sale, priced between ฿767,000 ($23,700) and ฿1,366,000 ($42,200). The fully electric model starts at ฿1,491,000 ($46,100), placing it at the top of the lineup.

The new Hilux will reach Europe and Australia in December 2025, followed by broader Asian rollouts in 2026 and a home-market debut in Japan by mid-2026. Detailed specifications and pricing for each region will be announced closer to launch.

Toyota

Volkswagen has stepped back from its earlier plans to introduce fully electric or plug-in hybrid versions of the global-spec Amarok, choosing instead to stick with its familiar lineup of diesel and gasoline powertrains for now. The decision keeps the pickup rooted in its traditional formula, at least for this generation.

Unlike the South American Amarok, which still rides on Volkswagen’s own ladder-frame platform, the global model is built on the same underpinnings as the Ford Ranger.

More: VW Just Dropped An Electric Pickup And It’s Not The One You’re Expecting

Ford’s pickup truck already offers a plug-in hybrid setup combining a turbocharged 2.3-liter gasoline engine with a single electric motor, producing 277 hp (207 kW / 281 PS). A modest 11.8 kWh battery enables around 40 km (25 miles) of electric-only driving.

Why Skip Electrification?

Earlier this year, reports suggested Volkswagen was seriously evaluating an electrified Amarok, especially given it already had access to the Ranger’s compatible hybrid system. Yet that interest appears to have faded.

According to Australian outlet CarExpert, Nathan Johnson, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ brand director, explained that CEO Stefan Mecha “made it clear … the PHEV and BEV Amarok is no longer being discussed at this point in time, in this generation,” emphasizing that it’s a global decision.

That doesn’t mean the idea is gone for good. Johnson hinted that the door remains open for the next Amarok, which could arrive near the end of the decade.

The current generation debuted in 2022, so a successor is still some years off, but by then electrification will likely be standard practice among midsize pickups, making a hybrid or electric version all but inevitable.

Another Hybrid Amarok Is Under Development

Volkswagen’s approach looks different in South America. There, the company continues to evolve the first-generation Amarok, which remains in production on VW’s original chassis. A refreshed version of that truck launched last year, and an all-new hybrid successor is already scheduled for 2027.

More: VW’s New Pickup Shares DNA With A Chinese Pickup You’ve Never Heard Of

The upcoming truck will ride on a ladder-frame chassis sourced from Chinese automaker SAIC, as part of its collaboration with Volkswagen. However, it will be manufactured at the General Pacheco factory in Argentina, backed by a $580 million investment.

Early teasers point to a close relationship with the Maxus Interstellar X, LDV Terron 9, and MGU9 pickup twins, though Volkswagen will apply its own design language to set it apart. The new hybrid Amarok will be limited to South American markets, sidestepping overlap with the global version.

Honda used its Automotive Technology Workshop to share new details about a next-generation platform that will form the backbone of its upcoming hybrid range. The new architecture is set to underpin models such as the Civic, HR-V, CR-V, Accord, and several others, marking a major step in the brand’s transition toward cleaner and more efficient vehicles.

The new platform’s design centers on improved rigidity to sharpen handling, a development that will also influence Honda’s future EV structures. Engineers have managed to reduce overall weight by 90 kilograms (198 pounds) compared to the current setup.

According to Honda, these changes will make future models both more engaging to drive and more economical at the pump.

More: Honda Bets On A New Hybrid V6 Instead Of Going All Electric

Honda has also drawn on its robotics expertise to introduce a new Motion Management System, designed to enhance stability and steering response. Complementing this is an upgraded Agile Handling Assist system, now paired with a pitch control feature to deliver steadier behavior across a variety of road surfaces.

Another focus area is modularity. The updated platform will allow for more than 60 percent parts commonality between models, streamlining development and manufacturing while reducing costs.

Next Civic Prototype

Among the vehicles being tested on this new foundation is a camouflaged Civic mule, previewed in these official photos you see here. The test car wears the body of the current Civic but features a noticeably bulkier front end, boxier bumper design, and a longer overhang. These changes are purely functional, meant to accommodate and evaluate the new underpinnings rather than preview final styling.

More: Honda’s New Electric SUV Might Be Small But Its Global Ambitions Are Big

The extensions on the front and rear fenders hint at wider tracks, while the inserts on the hood could be related to aerodynamics.

The tail is carried over from the existing Civic sedan, but it gets dual tailpipes. Of course, the design of the final product will be different, as this vehicle is only intended for testing the new underpinnings.

Prelude Tricks Trickle Down The Range

The upcoming hybrid powertrain is expected to pair a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with electric motors, offering better performance with higher efficiency. It will also borrow certain traits from the Prelude coupe, including the Honda S+ Shift system. This feature mimics gear changes through sound and torque modulation, adding a familiar rhythm to the driving experience despite the absence of a physical gearbox.

The fake gearshifts will also find their way into the Super-One EV. The urban hatchback that debuted at the Japan Mobility Show will have a simulated seven-speed setup, an active sound control system, and a “Boost” driving mode, making the best out of the fully electric powertrain.

It rides on a lightweight platform evolved from the N Series kei cars, with a wider stance and a battery pack mounted under the floor. The Super-One will arrive in Japan from 2026, followed by the UK, Europe, and other Asian countries.

Honda’s long-term vision reaches well beyond product development. By 2050, the company intends to achieve full carbon neutrality across all its vehicles and corporate operations. In that same timeframe, it also aims for a world where traffic collisions involving its motorcycles and cars result in zero fatalities.

Honda

Bentley has shared new details about its upcoming electric SUV, the brand’s first, while also suggesting that its petrol engines, which were once set for retirement by 2030, may now continue beyond 2035.

Related: This Is Bentley’s First EV And It’s Built To Haul More Than Just Your Ego

The British company claims their upcoming EV, working title: Luxury Urban SUV, will offer “industry-leading” charge speeds that will enable it to add 100 miles (161 km) of range in just seven minutes.

The posh electric utility, which at just under 5 m (197 inches) long is smaller than a Bentayga, is due to make its world debut in late 2026 before arriving in dealerships the following year.

Teasing the Shape

A teaser image of the EV covered by a black sheet and parked inside Bentley’s Crewe factory shows an SUV with a Range Rover Velar-style sporty profile.

It has a dramatic windshield rake, narrow glass area and a tapering roofline that drops into rear window with a slant that says the designers were definitely prioritizing glitz over cargo capacity. The links to Bentley’s recent EXP15 concept are clear, even if the production EV is more SUV than coupe.

Shared DNA With Porsche

Under the skin it will likely share plenty with Porsche’s Cayenne Electric, and could get the same 108 kWh battery. The Porsche will come with three powertrain options delivering 394 hp (400 PS / 294 kW) for the base Cayenne, 592 hp (600 PS / 441 kW) in S trim, and 794 hp (805 PS / 592 kW) as a Turbo, and Bentley could cherry pick the more potent two of those three.

“Our first fully electric Bentley, the world’s first true Luxury Urban SUV, represents a bold step forward, it embodies our vision for sustainable luxury and technological excellence,” said Chairman and CEO, Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser while offering an update on Bentley’s Beyond100+ electrification strategy.

“With industry-leading charging capability and unmistakable Bentley character and design, it marks the beginning of an exciting new era for our brand – a future defined by innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability,” Walliser added.

But behind the scenes Walliser knows that the market for electric luxury cars hasn’t exploded with anything like the force experienced by mass market brands.

How Long Will Gas Survive?

Bentley, which once planned to go EV-only by 2030, and later extended the deadline to 2035, now says it will continue to sell hybrid-engined cars until “at least” that date, hinting that it is prepared to push the switchover date back again depending on customer demand and legislation.

And that wasn’t the only good news for combustion fans. Bentley confirmed it’s developing a limited-production ICE model with no hybrid technology, due to make its first appearance next week.

Wearing the Supersports badge, the car will be a stripped-out, rear-wheel-drive GT powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 producing around 640 horsepower. Perhaps more importantly, it’s expected to lose several hundred pounds over the GT Speed.

The automaker also recently revealed a new Bentayga Speed whose 641 hp (650 PS / 478 kW) comes from a non-hybrid V8.

Baldauf

Since the debut of the Iconic SP concept at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, Mazda enthusiasts have been waiting for the day it leaves the stand and hits the street. The coupe sparked immediate speculation about a spiritual successor to the RX-7, and top Mazda execs have been eager to keep that hope alive.

Yet, the latest reports suggest that the journey from concept to reality might not be as smooth as fans would like.

More: Mazda Vision-X Compact Might Be A Little Too Friendly

In late 2024, Mazda Design Chief Masashi Nakayama said the Iconic SP was “designed with real intent to turn it into a production model,” a goal echoed by CEO Masahiro Moro: “We still persist in making it happen.” Chief Technical Officer Ryuichi Umeshita later called it “a good successor for the RX-7,” though he admitted the project still needs a sound business case.

How Close Is It to Reality Now?

Our colleagues at Autocar recently spoke with Umeshita to hear how development of the much-anticipated model is progressing. The Chief Technical Officer was candid: “Let me answer personally—that is my dream car. I want to make it real. Technology-wise, I believe it’s possible. The only outstanding issue is financial.”

Earlier this year, Mazda trimmed its planned budget for electrification by half a trillion yen ($3.3B). The company is pursuing a “Multi-Solution” strategy that blends BEV, hybrid, and combustion engines rather than going all-in on electric.

More: Mazda Brings Back Turbo Rotary Engine With Vision-X Coupe

Between developing an EV-specific platform, a new hybrid setup, and the upcoming SkyActiv-Z engine, Mazda’s resources are already stretched thin. In that light, a bespoke sports car might not sit at the top of the spending list.

Rotary Revival With A Turbo

Even so, the idea hasn’t been shelved. The Vision X Coupe concept, unveiled at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, shows Mazda hasn’t turned its back on the rotary dream.

If anything, it confirms that the company is still invested in the technology that defined some of its most celebrated cars as that study is powered by a hybrid unit with a turbocharged rotary engine.

Umeshita underlined that continuity: “We have re-established the rotary engine development team, and we know that our DNA is in sports cars, so I would never say we gave it up.”

The Vision X Coupe’s plug-in hybrid setup pairs a turbocharged rotary engine with an electric motor for a combined 503 hp (375 kW / 510 PS) and includes carbon-capture technology. By contrast, the Iconic SP’s range-extender system produced 365 hp (272 kW / 370 PS).

More: Over 9,500 People Wanted This Special Miata, 9,300 Missed Out

Mazda’s next step is to cut emissions from the rotary engine further, which could eventually allow it to drive the wheels directly rather than serving solely as a generator. Engineers estimate this evolution will take another “two to three years” of development.

Will the Next MX-5 Carry the Torch?

While Mazda’s design and engineering teams work toward reviving the rotary legacy, the brand’s future in sports cars looks brighter than it has in years.

Alongside the potential RX successor, Mazda has confirmed that the next-generation MX-5 roadster will arrive later this decade. The upcoming Miata will stay true to its lightweight spirit, equipped with a larger-displacement SkyActiv Z engine and, reassuringly, a manual gearbox.

Source: Autocar

The Junior has been a rare hit for Alfa Romeo and the brand is trying to increase its appeal by introducing a new Sport Speciale. It’s designed to “blend elegance, sportiness, and cutting-edge technology.”

The model certainly looks the part as it features gloss black cladding with bright silver inserts. They’re joined by tinted rear windows and 18-inch alloy wheels with a two-tone diamond cut finish. Customers will also find “Sport Speciale” badging as well as an optional contrasting black roof.

Review: The Junior Is Everything Alfa Romeo Needed And Nothing Alfisti Wanted

Upgrades extend to the cabin, which has black perforated Alcantara seats with contrasting Ice accents. The front seats are heated and have power adjustment, as one would expect from a luxury brand.

Alcantara upholstery can also be found on the dashboard, door panels, center tunnel and steering wheel. On the latter location, it’s joined by leather and contrast stitching. Other notable highlights include aluminum pedals and an ambient lighting system.

If that isn’t special enough, the Junior can be equipped with the Techno pack, which adds Matrix LED headlights, GPS navigation, and a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system. They’re joined by a rearview camera, parking sensors, and power folding mirrors with blind spot detection.

The package also includes a number of other upgrades including a hands-free power liftgate, a wireless smartphone charger, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. This is on top of a six-speaker audio system and front/rear USB charging ports.

Despite having sport in its name, powertrains carryover and include a 143 hp (107 kW / 145 PS) hybrid that is offered with front and all-wheel drive. Customers can also get a fully electric Sport Speciale that produces 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS).