Ferrari vows to keep V6, V8, and V12 engines alive for future models.
By 2030, 40% of the Italian brand’s lineup will be hybrid and 20% electric.
Company expects to generate roughly $10.4 billion in revenue by 2030.
Ferrari has used their Capital Markets Day event to unveil their 2030 Strategic Plan. It will have them pretty busy as the company is aiming to introduce four new cars annually between 2026 and 2030.
The automaker didn’t say much about the upcoming models, but promised each car will be “designed with a distinct positioning, tailored to different client profiles, in line with our strategy: Different Ferrari for different Ferraristi, and different Ferrari for different moments.”
While Ferrari is embracing electrification, they believe in “technology neutrality” and giving customers “true freedom of choice in how their car is powered.” This means the brand will “continue to offer and innovate our V6, V8 and V12 combustion engines, in line with new global regulations, focusing on increasing specific power output and ensuring compatibility with alternative fuels.”
That’s good news for purists, and Ferrari said ICE-powered vehicles will make up 40% of their lineup in 2030. Another 40% will be hybrid, while the remaining 20% are electric.
Ferrari also used the event to talk about the next generation of hybrids. They’ll be a “combination of the finest combustion and electric technologies, featuring electrical and electronic components developed and manufactured in-house.”
The company is also working on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, targeting a 25% reduction in Scope 3 emissions by 2030, compared to 2024 levels. However, this isn’t being done in the way you’d think, as the drop will primarily be achieved by using recycled aluminum in engines and chassis.
Customization And Exclusivity
Putting powertrains aside, Ferrari isn’t chasing sales as they’ll continue to “sell one car less than the market demands.” This helps to make their vehicles special, as owning a Ferrari has to be an experience.
Speaking of which, the company said 100% of its vehicles are personalized by customers. Ferrari is celebrating this by announcing plans to open two new Tailor Made centers, in Tokyo and Los Angeles, in 2027. A new paint shop will also aid in customization requests, and it’s scheduled to open in 2027 as well.
Ferrari isn’t just focused on new models, as they’ve built approximately 330,000 vehicles since the company was founded. Of these, over 90% are still in existence and require maintenance.
The Financials
In other news, Ferrari raised their guidance as it’s already beating their 2026 profitability targets. Now, they’re expecting revenues in excess of €7.1 ($8.2) billion as well as earnings of more than €2.72 ($3.15) billion.
In 2030, the company expects to increase revenues to around €9 ($10.4) billion, while earnings climb to €3.6 ($4.2) billion. They’re aiming to achieve this thanks to a strong product mix, limited edition vehicles, customizations, and some growth.
Ferrari’s stock plunged over 15 percent after its Capital Markets Day event.
The fall followed weak financial guidance rather than the new EV’s unveiling.
Analysts said the cautious outlook disappointed investors across both markets.
Moments after Ferrari revealed the first details of its long-awaited EV, currently known as the Elettrica, the company’s shares took a sharp dive on the Italian stock market, marking its worst trading day on record.
However, the sell-off wasn’t triggered by the car’s reveal or by news of fewer electrified models in Ferrari’s future lineup, but by weaker-than-expected financial results and a cautious outlook that rattled investors.
Markets React Sharply
The Italian brand’s shares plunged 16.1 percent after its annual Capital Markets Day and ended the day down 15.4 percent on the Milan stock exchange. They also fell by a considerable 15 percent on the New York Stock Exchange, higher than its previous largest single-day decline of 12.4 percent from February 2016.
The company said it expects a net revenue of at least €7.1 billion ($8.2 billion) this year, slightly higher than a previous forecast of more than €7 billion.
It also confirmed that its net revenue is expected to increase to roughly €9 billion ($10.4 billion) in 2030 and predicts an EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization) of at least €3.6 billion ($4.1 billion) by 2030.
As reported by CNBC, analysts from Citi commented that Ferrari’s updated guidance “falls below our ‘lower growth case’ estimates from our CMD preview and reflects conservatism from management, we think.”
Ferrari Elettrica
Lower EV Ambitions
Perhaps the most noteworthy announcement made by Ferrari is related to its electrification plans. In 2022, Ferrari announced that 40 percent of the vehicles it sold would have battery-electric powertrains by 2030. However, like many other car manufacturers, it has been forced to wind back these ambitions due to a slowdown in EV uptake in key global markets.
Now, Ferrari believes that pure-ICE models will account for approximately 40 percent of its sales, hybrid-powered ones for another 40 percent, and EVs for the remaining 20 percent in 2030. This means that Ferrari now expects to sell half as many EVs in 2030 as it had initially anticipated.
The company attributed the change to its “client centricity approach, the current environment and its expected evolution.”
The reception to the Elettrica may force Ferrari to adjust EV sales targets in the near future. The upcoming model’s underpinnings were shown during the event, alongside confirmation that it will deliver over 986 hp and have more than 329 miles (530 km) of driving range. Ferrari says it’ll hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in 2.5 seconds and reach a 193 mph (310 km/h) top speed.
Found beneath the skin of the new model will be a sizeable 122 kWh battery pack with an energy density of 195 Wh/kg at pack level and 305Wh/kg at cell level. It will also feature an 800-volt electrical architecture that supports 350 kW DC fast charging.
Nissan is in talks with Ford and Stellantis to build a Rogue-based hybrid.
The model will use Nissan’s e-Power system debuting in America in 2026.
A deal would boost Tennessee output and mark Nissan’s hybrid resurgence.
To say that Nissan had a rough 2024 would be a big understatement, but it’s already hard at work to turn things around. Along with the introduction of new and updated models, it’s looking to partner with other brands, some of which are fierce rivals, like Ford and Stellantis. Before the end of the decade, though, Nissan could be building hybrids for multiple automakers.
Sleeping With The Enemy
According to a new report, the latest Rogue could be the basis for the vehicles in question. Nissan’s compact SUV features the brand’s proptietary e-Power hybrid system that uses a gas engine to power an electric battery and motors. The models that could come from partnerships would be built alongside the Rogue in Smyrna, Tennessee.
Nissan’s e-Power technology has been available in Japan and Europe for years, but it won’t debut in the U.S. until late 2026. It promises 15 percent better fuel economy at highway speeds than in the outgoing Rogue.
That’s a promising figure, and U.S. manufacturing makes it a tempting platform for Ford and Stellantis, according to Autonews. In fact, Nissan might ink some sort of deal with either of these brands even if it doesn’t secure an order for badge-engineered cars.
Nissan spokesman Brian Brockman confirmed that the company is “exploring options” to localize vehicle and powertrain production to meet rising hybrid demand. He added that Nissan “remains open to dialogue” but has “no agreements in place regarding production at our U.S. plants.”
Partners Could Come From All Over The Globe
Interestingly, potential partners don’t stop with two of the Big Three. Mitsubishi is allegedly interested in joint production, too, and would reportedly use e-Power engines for the Outlander. Foxconn could even enter the fold as a contract manufacturer. For Nissan, making two or even three deals of this sort would be a huge step forward.
After initially leading the EV charge with the Leaf, the brand has fallen behind many competitors when it comes to electrified vehicles. As AutoForecast Solutions analyst Sam Fiorani put it, “They can’t get to market soon enough.”
A viral Reddit post reveals a new Stellantis SUV without a touchscreen.
The entry-level Edition trim of the Opel Frontera skips the display.
Dacia, Citroen, and Fiat also omit screens in their base trim models.
While carmakers keep tripping over themselves to pack ever-bigger screens and overcomplicated digital gimmicks into their cabins, a handful of budget models seem content to sit that trend out. One Reddit user in Germany stirred a discussion after noticing that the entry-level version of a Stellantis SUV doesn’t have an infotainment system or touchscreen of any kind and, unsurprisingly, their post went viral.
The model in question is the Opel Frontera, a revived nameplate that shares absolutely nothing with its old-school, ladder-frame predecessor based on the Isuzu MU. Instead, this new generation trades toughness for a modern, urban-friendly setup, sharing its platform with the Citroen C3 Aircross.
According to Opel’s official German configurator, the base Frontera Edition leaves out several features available in the higher GS and Ultimate trims.
Simple Tech For Bigger Savings
Despite its minimalist approach, the most affordable Frontera still includes a 10-inch digital instrument cluster. However, where you’d usually find a touchscreen on the glossy black dashboard, there’s a smartphone holder instead.
The crossover comes with a basic radio, a microphone for voice commands and calls, and two front speakers that only function when a phone is connected via Bluetooth. A USB Type-C port offers quick charging on the move, while the manual air-conditioning system keeps things old-school with rotary dials on the center console.
Buyers who want more can opt for the Tech package, which adds the 10-inch touchscreen, DAB radio, navigation, a rearview camera, wireless charging, and a front armrest with storage. The Comfort package brings heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and automatic climate control, while the Design package adds a white roof, black roof rails, and matching white details for the 16-inch steel wheels.
Pricing The Basics
So how affordable is the entry-level Frontera? In Germany, the Edition trim starts at €24,190 ($28,300) for the Hybrid 110 with the 1.2-liter engine, and climbs to €31,190 ($36,500) for the Electric Extended Range 113 PS model. The optional Tech and Comfort packages add €1,000 ($1,200) each, while the Design pack will set you back another €450 ($525).
Further up the range, the GS trim adds between €3,500 and €3,700 ($4,100) to the entry-level price, while the Ultimate trim costs only €300 ($350) more than the GS.
Interestingly, in France, the Frontera Edition includes an infotainment display as standard, even with a slightly lower base price of €23,845 ($27,900). Other small Opel models like the Corsa and Mokka also include screens across all trims.
Screen-Less Models Are Trending
Of course, Opel isn’t alone in the “screen-less” concept. Several automakers now offer base trims that rely on smartphone docking stations instead of built-in displays. Dacia has led the charge, with all its models, aside from the Bigster, offered in a basic “Essential” specification without a touchscreen.
Within the Stellantis family, the same philosophy applies to the Citroën C3, C3 Aircross, and Fiat Grande Panda, all of which share the Smart Car platform with the Frontera.
A host of upcoming budget urban EVs, like the VW ID.Up (ID.Every1) and the Renault Twingo, are also expected to let drivers use their smartphones for multimedia and navigation. This will allow automakers to offer them at a lower starting price.
Do You Really Need A Screen?
While many buyers love the look of large infotainment systems, some prefer the simplicity of using their own device, which can be easily updated over time. There’s also a practical advantage: without a screen dominating the dashboard, essential controls like heating and ventilation remain physical, straightforward, and easy to use.
Beyond Europe, you’ll find countless screen-less models in Japan, India, Southeast Asia, and South America. In contrast, Chinese buyers have access to massive screens and high-tech features in the vast majority of passenger vehicles.
BMW is expected to unveil a new generation of the 3-Series sedan in 2026.
The Neue Klasse sedan will be available in ICE (3-Series) and EV (i3) derivatives.
Despite riding on different underpinnings, the models will look very similar.
Update: A lot has happened since we last looked at the future G50 3 Series. Thanks to new renderings, fresh intel, and the latest spy shots, we now have the clearest picture yet of how Munich’s defining sports sedan is set to evolve in its next generation.
Sedans may no longer dominate sales charts in an SUV-driven world, but the3-Series still has plenty of road left ahead of it. This compact executive four-door has been a pillar of BMW’s lineup for fifty years, valued as much for its reputation as for the way it drives.
The next chapter begins in 2026, when a new generation arrives in two distinct forms: the all-electric i3, codenamed NA0, and the traditional internal-combustion 3 Series, codenamed G50. If that sounds familiar, it’s because BMW’s been work-shopping this approach with their bigger sedans, the i5/5-Series and i7/7-Series.
The 3 Series and its EV sibling are now set to follow the same playbook, giving customers a choice between conventional gasoline power and fully electric performance.
Spied And Rendered
Illustrations Kelsonik / Kolesa
Recent spy shots of prototypes have revealed both gas-powered and fully electric versions of the next-gen 3-Series. While both share the “Neue Klasse” design language, the differences in proportions are telling.
The ICE testers feature a slightly longer hood, a sharper dash-to-axle ratio, and a more upright windshield. These elements combined make it look less like a complete EV-inspired redesign and more like an extensively reworked version of the current G20-generation BMW 3-Series.
These sightings have inspired digital artists Theottle and Kelsonic from Kolesa to create their own renderings of the next 3 Series, each offering an early glimpse of how the sedan’s styling might evolve.
BMW’s signature shark-nose design returns with a sharper, more athletic edge, framed by a fresh take on the kidney grilles. Slimmer and wider than on today’s models, the grilles now stretch across the front and now double as housing for sensors and tech that support advanced driver-assistance features. A deeper front bumper and lightly flared fenders complete the look, adding some muscle without drifting into excess.
Flush door handles bring the styling in line with BMW’s latest clean-surfaced aesthetic, while the greenhouse and Hofmeister kink stay intact.
The next generation of the BMW 3-Series sedan (Photos: SHProshots)
The BMW i3 Neue Klasse sedan.
Out back, heavy camouflage forces a little guesswork. Theottle’s rendering draws from the 2023 Vision Neue Klasse concept, with a full-width light bar and crisp LED signatures, while Kelsonic’s interpretation borrows slimmer light units reminiscent of the production iX3. Lower down, both envision sportier bumpers inspired by BMW’s M division, in line with prototypes wearing large alloys, upgraded brakes, and quad tailpipes.
Tech Blueprint From The iX3
While we have yet to get a glimpse of the 3-Series prototype’s interior during development testing, we have a pretty good idea of what to expect, largely thanks to the new iX3 that serves as the blueprint for BMW’s next generation of models.
At the center is the new Panoramic iDrive system that replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a wide digital display stretching across the full width of the dashboard. It places essentials like speed and electric range directly in the driver’s line of sight while allowing the rest of the information to be tailored to both driver and passenger. The screen itself is divided into three flexible sections, each configurable to suit individual preferences.
BMW will also offer an optional head-up display with animated guidance that counts down to the next turn. The setup is joined by a large, asymmetrically shaped infotainment touchscreen on the center console and a handful of physical switches for everyday functions.
Two Platforms, Two Paths
Unlike the i5/5-Series and i7/7-Series, where BMW paired EVs and ICE models on the same platform, the i3 and 3-Series are believed to head down different paths.
The all-electric i3 sedan will ride on the Neue Klasse architecture, shared with the upcoming iX3 SUV, while the combustion-powered 3-Series will reportedly stick to the CLAR platform, which also underpins the forthcoming G45 X3. This would explain the differences in proportions and styling details we see in the i3 and ICE 3-Series prototypes here.
Based on what we’ve seen with the mechanically related X3, the next-gen 3-Series will likely offer mild-hybrid upgrades of BMW’s proven 2.0-liter four-cylinder and 3.0-liter inline-six, with the latter forming the heart of the next M350. Both should see gains in efficiency and power over today’s units.
Interestingly, even the mighty M3 isn’t immune to electrification. However, as BMW officials told us in a recent trip, the next M3 will forego the heavy plug-in hybrid setup of the M5, instead opting for a lighter mild-hybrid system. This should provide outputs in excess of the current ratings of 473 hp, 503 hp, and 523 hp, depending on whether you’re looking at the standard car, the Competition, or the Competition xDrive, not to mention the inevitable special editions.
Meanwhile, for those following BMW’s EV push, a quad-motor all-electric counterpart to the M3, possibly called the iM3, is already under development. With over 700 horsepower and near instant torque, it promises tire-melting lunacy for the brave few. And there may be more to come, as BMW has hinted the setup could be pushed past 1,300 horsepower, though whether that kind of excess ever makes it to production in some form of a special edition is another story.
The downside is weight, and plenty of it, as spy shots suggest the electric M3 could be at least 465 kg (1,025 lbs) heavier than today’s car. Hardly surprising, then, if carbon-ceramic brakes show up on the options list, just as they do on the current M3 and M4.
When Will They Arrive?
The current G20-generation BMW 3-Series first graced the stage in 2018, with minor facelifts arriving in 2022 and 2024. BMW has already confirmed the electric i3 for next year, and while it hasn’t given a timeline for the ICE 3 Series, it will most likely be introduced in 2026 as a 2027 model year, with the actual market launch possibly slipping into 2027.
Prototype previews a budget-friendly fastback crossover for Panda buyers.
It rides on Stellantis Smart Car underpinnings with ICE, hybrid, and EV choices.
The production version resembles the Citroen Basalt sold overseas markets.
A new chapter in Fiat’s Panda lineup is beginning to take shape, with fresh variants now undergoing tests on European roads. Among them is a budget-friendly fastback crossover that aims to combine everyday practicality with a more distinctive silhouette, set to be offered with gasoline, mild-hybrid, and fully electric powertrains.
The fastback first appeared in concept form in early 2024, shown alongside a hatchback that evolved into the Grande Panda, plus an SUV, pickup, and camper study. The prototype caught in camouflage testing looks toned down compared to the concept, trading some of its flair for more traditional proportions and a simplified glasshouse.
Up front, the resemblance to the Grande Panda is clear, with boxy LED headlights featuring pixel-style graphics, a closed-off grille, and a single intake low on the bumper. From the side, the longer wheelbase and large-diameter alloys give it a stretched stance. The shape of the windows hints strongly at Citroen design influences, something that makes sense once you look at its family connections.
At the rear, heavy camouflage hides much of the fastback curve, but you can still spot slim taillight elements mounted high and the license plate positioned on the bumper. A discreet exhaust tip tucked beneath the car suggests this particular prototype is running a combustion engine.
The original concept (above) compared to the production version (below).
SH Proshots
An Italian With A French Sibling
Despite its silhouette, the car isn’t related to the the Fiat Fastback that is available in South America since 2022. Instead, it shares DNA with another Stellantis product, the Citroen Basalt, which launched in 2024 for markets including India, Brazil, Argentina, and Indonesia. That model is mechanically linked to the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross SUV, though it wears a more coupe-like shape.
Fiat’s newcomer will sit on Stellantis’ Smart Car platform, the same underpinnings found in the Grande Panda, the European-market Citroen C3 and C3 Aircross, and the Opel Frontera.
Engine choices are expected to include the 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder in both standard petrol and mild-hybrid configurations, alongside a full EV variant. While the default setup is front-wheel drive, there’s a chance an all-wheel-drive version could follow, echoing the planned Grande Panda 4×4.
Fiat has confirmed that the full Panda family will roll out by 2027, with the fastback likely to be the first of the new additions to reach showrooms. An official unveiling is expected within the next few months.
Ford sold 85,789 electrified vehicles in Q3, up 19.8% year-over-year.
Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning posted record quarterly sales.
Hybrids remain the volume leaders, led by F-150 and Maverick models.
Ford just posted its seventh straight month of growth and capped off a successful third quarter. It wasn’t just one or two models that did the heavy lifting, either. Not only were traditional ICE vehicles like Bronco, Explorer, and Expedition big hits, but electrified cars, trucks, and SUVs smashed records. Here’s a look at the details.
During the quarter, Ford and Lincoln sold a combined 85,789 electrified vehicles, which include both hybrid and pure battery-electric vehicles (BEV). That’s up 19.8 percent compared to last year, and it made up 15.7 percent of the brand’s sales mix. Last quarter, electrified cars made up just 13.5 percent of sales.
No doubt, some, well, scratch that, most of those sales came from buyers eager to grab a tax credit before it expired on September 30. Ford and GM, however, seem to have found a loophole to keep it alive a little longer, as we reported yesterday.
Battery Gains Build Momentum
That’s backed up in part by the huge gains Ford saw in its BEV sales. It delivered 30,612 EVs in the quarter. That’s a 30.2 percent increase over the same time period in 2024. Leading the way was the Mustang Mach-E, which recorded its best quarter since launching in 2020, climbing 50.7 percent to 20,177 units. The F-150 Lightning also posted a record quarter with 10,005 trucks sold. That’s up almost 40 percent.
Hybrids still make up the majority of Ford’s electrified sales. They accounted for 55,177 sales. The F-150 Hybrid continued its reign as the best-selling full-size hybrid truck in America with 22,212 sales. The Maverick Hybrid continued to dominate the midsize hybrid pickup segment with 63,516 sales, an 11.5 percent increase.
Andrew Frick, president of Ford Blue and Model e, said the results highlight the company’s balance across powertrains. “We saw strong performance in gas, hybrid, and electrified powertrains, while at the same time growing our paid software solutions, all embedded in vehicles such as Expedition, Explorer, and F-150.”
Balancing Old and New
While some big automakers are pivoting around a shifting market, Ford seems on track to move from strength to strength. It’ll likely outsell GM and Stellantis combined with regard to electrified sales this year. And it’s managing that while ICE-powered vehicles see success as well.
Entry-level Peugeot 308 Style keeps a convenience missing in higher trims.
The Style comes standard with digital cockpit, full LEDs, and dual-zone A/C.
Flagship GT Exclusive adds sportier aero, extra features, and 18-inch wheels.
The compact hatchback is one of the fiercest battlegrounds in the European market, and Peugeot isn’t letting its 308 go dull. The facelifted hatch and station wagon are already on sale across Europe, but a look through the configurator shows that the humble Style trim not only comes well equipped, it also clings to a feature Peugeot has stripped from the top-spec GT Exclusive.
That feature is the physical climate control panel, complete with two rotary dials and a set of tactile buttons positioned beneath the central touchscreen. The same setup can be found on the Style, Business and Allure trims. However, the GT and GT Exclusive models get the “Peugeot i-toggles” touch-sensitive shortcuts. This means that adjusting the temperature requires a glance at the screen and a tap on the right area, a process that feels more distracting on the move.
Buttons Where They Matter
Interestingly, the cheapest 308 Style comes standard with a 10-inch infotainment and 10-inch digital instrument cluster, although it doesn’t get the nicer materials found in higher grades. Equipment also includes dual-zone A/C, rear parking sensors, electrically folding and heated mirrors, and a six speaker audio.
Furthermore, the exterior retains the sporty bumpers and full-LED lights introduced by the facelift, combined with a set of black 16-inch alloy wheels.
On the other end of the spectrum, the flagship Peugeot 308 GT Exclusive trim is distinguished by the diamond-cut 18-inch alloy wheels, the sharper side skirts, the matching front bumper extension, and the illuminated section on the grille which is joined by an illuminated Peugeot shield and Matrix LED headlights.
Inside, the GT Exclusive is equipped with an upgraded instrument cluster featuring 3D graphics, ambient lighting, Alcantara upholstery, and the 360 Vision & Drive Assist Plus Pack suite bringing Level 2 autonomous driving capability. Options include a 10-speaker Focal audio system, a sunroof, wireless smartphone charging, all-season tires, and a retractable towing hitch.
Powertrain Options And Pricing
The facelifted Peugeot 308 is available with mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric powertrain options. The most potent version is the PHEV, with a combined output of 192 hp (143 kW / 195 PS). The Style trim is reserved for the mild-hybrid and fully electric options, so those who want the PHEV and physical climate controls have to upgrade to the Business or the Allure.
The cheapest Peugeot 308 Style Hybrid 145 currently starts at €28,390 ($33,300) in France, while the range-topping GT Exclusive trim with the same engine costs €33,277 ($39,100). The most expensive option is the 308 GT Exclusive Plug-in Hybrid 195 priced at at €39,780 ($46,700), which is €461 ($540) more than the equivalent Electrique 156.
Fortunately, most automakers have realized that customers want regular buttons and switches for crucial functions instead of having to navigate through complicated infotainment menus or use touch-sensitive controls. In this context, we expect future Stellantis models to feature a practical solution for the climate controls – from their entry-level trim all the way to the range-topping guise.
Mazda EZ-60 starts at $16,800 in China, undercutting many U.S. economy cars.
Buyers can choose range-extended hybrid or full EV with 255 hp rear motor.
The all-electric Max trim offers 373 miles of CLTC range from 77.9 kWh pack.
Anyone shopping for an affordable new car in the United States might do a double take at Mazda’s latest announcement in China. The EZ-60, a midsize SUV offered with both pure electric and range-extended hybrid power, is priced at a level that makes it look like a bargain compared to even an entry-level Nissan Versa.
Announced earlier this year, the EZ-60 has been brought to life through Mazda’s joint venture partnership with Changan and will be sold overseas, where it will wear the CX-6e badge. In China, the Japanese automaker has confirmed it will have a starting price of just 119,900 yuan, or the equivalent of just $16,800, for the Base range-extender model.
Buyers wanting more can opt for the range-extended model in Pro and Max guise, starting at 129,900 yuan ($18,200) and 138,900 yuan ($19,500) respectively. Power comes from a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder that works solely as a generator to feed the 31.7 kWh battery, which in turn powers a rear-mounted electric motor rated at 255 hp.
The all-electric lineup mirrors the same three trims. Pricing starts at 139,900 yuan ($19,600) for the Base EV, stepping up to 149,900 yuan ($21,000) for the Pro and topping out at 160,900 yuan ($22,600) for the Max.
EV Tech
Like the hybrid-assisted version, the pure EV uses a 255 hp motor driving the rear axle. Instead of a gasoline generator, it carries a 77.94 kWh lithium-iron phosphate battery pack that, according to Mazda, can deliver up to 600 km (373 miles) of range under the CLTC cycle.
While the exterior of the EZ-60 share some design cues with other Mazda models, the interior is unlike any of the brand’s cars sold in the West and sports a huge 26.5-inch 5K display doubling as the central infotainment screen, as well as a display for the passenger. There’s also a 100-inch augmented reality head-up display and cameras instead of traditional wing mirrors.
Mazda has confirmed the EZ-60 will be exported to select global markets, including Europe where it will carry the CX-6e nameplate. Buyers in the United States, however, will have to admire it from afar, as there are no plans to offer it stateside. The SUV is Mazda’s second EV to be offered in China following the EZ-6 mid-size sedan launched late last year.
Last month, Chinese brands took 5.5 percent of the Euro market.
Their 43,500 unit sales total was up 121 percent from August ’24.
During August, Audi sold 41,300 units and Renault 37,800 in Europe.
Overall car sales in Europe grew by 5 percent to 790,000 last month, buoyed by continuing enthusiasm for electric cars across the continent. Plug-in hybrids saw particularly strong momentum, with registrations climbing to 83,900 in August, a 59 percent increase on the previous year that lifted their market share to 10.6 percent.
According to Jato Dynamics figures, battery-electric cars (BEVs) also posted gains, up 27 percent compared with August 2024, giving them a record 20.2 percent market share, up 3.6 percentage points year on year. That brings Europe’s total for fully electric registrations in 2025 to 1.54 million so far. Analysts caution, however, that the headline growth figures for BEVs may not tell the full story
Numbers With Caveats
“The data shows that there was strong demand for BEVs in August, however a 27 percent increase is less significant than it looks when you consider how widely they are being promoted across Europe,” said Felipe Munoz, Global Analyst at JATO Dynamics. “The new record market share for BEVs achieved last month has been partly distorted by the fact that Italy – typically a less enthusiastic adopter of BEVs – is usually quiet during August,” Munoz added.
Europe Car Sales
Aug ’24
Aug ’25
Diff.
Total
752,847
790,177
+5.0%
BEV
125,494
159,746
+27%
PHEV
52,820
83,872
+59%
SUV
408,561
451,737
+11%
Chinese brands
19,707
43,529
+121%
Chinese-owned Western brands
23,601
19,613
-17%
SWIPE
Jato Dynamics
China’s Growing Momentum
Yet Europe’s traditional manufacturers may find little comfort in these results. The bad news for Europe’s carmakers is that interest in Chinese brands is growing at an even faster rate, and it’s coming at the expense of some very big household names.
Audi shifted 41,300 units in August, and Renault moved 37,800. Both are major players in the market but were outmaneuvered by Chinese brands who registered 43,500 sales, up a massive 121 percent versus August 2024, Jato reports.
Granted, that ‘Chinese brands’ figure is made up of 40 different automakers, but Jato points out that 84 percent of the total was achieved by only five of them, namely MG, BYD, Jaecoo, Omoda and Leapmotor. Whichever way you cut it it’s bad news for Europe’s legacy brands, and is only going to get worse, though at least Stellantis’s deal with Leapmotor means it gets to celebrate the win.
Even on their own, the Chinese brands took some big scalps. MG registered more cars than Tesla and Fiat, BYD beat Suzuki and Jeep, and Jaecoo and Omoda outsold Alfa Romeo and Mitsubishi.
“European consumers are responding positively to the growing, competitive line-up from China’s car brands,” Jato analyst Felipe Munoz said. “It appears that these brands have successfully tackled the perception and awareness issues they have experienced.”
Hybrids, not just EVs
It’s not only in the EV segment that Chinese brands are making gains. They’re also doing great in the PHEV space, where they’re not hobbled by the same tariffs applied to their fully electric vehicles.
More than 11,000 Chinese-brand plug-ins were sold this August compared with only 779 in the same month last year, BYD is now the eighth most popular PHEV brand overall and the BYD Seal U, Jaecoo J7 and MG HS bagged three spots in the top 10 best-selling models list.
However, if you simply looked at the table of 10 most-registered models, you’d never guess how quickly China was moving forward. The list contains no names from the People’s Republic and continues to be dominated by Volkswagen and Renault.
The VW T-Roc (which has since been facelifted) was the region’s biggest seller, with the Dacia Sandero scooping second spot and Toyota’s Yaris Cross bagging third. Tesla’s updated Model Y was the best-selling EV, but its sales were down 37 percent and it was nowhere to be seen in the overall top 10 cars table.
Land Rover’s baby EV, dubbed the Defender Sport, has been spied testing again.
The boxy SUV rides on the same EMA platform as the upcoming Evoque EV.
JLR could re-engineer the platform to take advantage of strong hybrid demand.
JLR’s masterful reinvention of the Defender proved the doubters wrong and added millions to the automakers’ balance sheet. Now it’s hoping that a baby version powered purely by batteries due in 2027 will enjoy the same success, but it might need some major surgery to fully realize its potential.
The bonsai EV, which will effectively replace the ancient Discovery Sport and could be called the Defender Sport, was spied testing again this week. While the final name might be unclear at this point, what’s under the skin isn’t. The baby SUV’s blanked grille and lack of exhaust pipes tell us its an EV and confirm it’s running on the same EMA electric architecture that will also underpin the upcoming Range Rover Evoque EV.
It’ll be thoroughly modern platform with 800-volt charging and JLR has invested huge sums to make it happen, including a £500 million ($668 million) refit of its Halewood plant in north west England and the construction of a brand new battery site in the south west.
But with electric sales having failed to take off as expected in key markets like the US, is JLR really prepared to leave sales on the table by failing to offer customers the combustion powertrains many of them still want in their new cars? Could the company change its plans and adapt the EV-only EMA platform to also accept hybrid power?
It wouldn’t be the first automaker to do it. Fiat responded to weak sales of its electric 500e by slotting a 1.0-liter mild-hybrid petrol engine from the discontinued combustion 500 in the nose, and Porsche recently confirmed it would add ICE power hero models to the top of the new 718 EV lineup, and has scrapped plans to make its super-SUV an EV. The pricey utility will now get straight combustion and hybrid engines instead, and Porsche is also building a new ICE Macan to sell alongside the new Macan Electric.
JLR hasn’t made any specific comments about that kind of rethink regarding the EMA platform, but it did announce last year that it, like many other automakers, was taking a more measured pace when it came to electrification than it had planned.
“What you have seen from other OEMs is that the race to BEV is starting to stutter a little,” then-CEO Adrian Mardell said at the time. “PHEV acceptance has been quite a surprise. We are working hard in the interim time to make more PHEVs available to the marketplace.”
Senior BMW executive told journalists combustion engines will never disappear.
Jochen Goller’s comments were later toned down by BMW’s press team.
BMW claims Goller referred to differing speeds at which markets develop.
We now know that combustion engines won’t completely disappear from automakers’ European lineups in 2035, as some previously feared, because some hybrids will live on. But according to one senior BMW suit, ICE hasn’t just been given a 10-year reprieve. It’s immortal.
“ICE and combustion engines will never disappear. Never!” So said Jochen Goller, BMW’s head of customer, brand and sales in a recent roundtable interview at the Munich Motor Show. This is the same show, remember, where BMW unveiled the electric iX3, the first of the Neue Klasse vehicles that will guide the brand forward for the next decade or more.
How Serious Was He?
Was Goller serious? He obviously didn’t mean that gasoline power will be around when cars can fly, but humans don’t need them because they’ve mastered teleportation (BMW’s pod will naturally deliver ultimate teleportation pleasure) and half of us are living on Mars. No one with half a brain believes that. But was he suggesting that combustion engines will still be around 40, 50, or 60 years from now?
BMW’s press team was quick to temper any excitement over Goller’s Braveheart-like pro-petrol stance. According to AMS magazine, a BMW spokesperson explained that the comments were made in a “humorous context. They added that the sales chief was trying to highlight that the take-up of new drive technology varies dramatically between different countries and regions.
Unfortunately for those of us in Europe and the US, that take-up is happening more quickly than in some other markets, even if in some cases it’s not happening as fast as automakers like BMW once hoped. Electric cars now account for a fifth of all new car sales in Europe, and though their share in the US is smaller, mass acceptance in America (and maybe regulatory change ensuring it) is still going to happen sooner than in India or some remote part of Africa or Asia.
The good news for us Westerners not keen on moving to Chad just so we can avoid buying an EV from our BMW dealer is that BMW seems committed to a multi-energy strategy worldwide, at least for a while yet. The company’s older CLAR platform is being updated to ensure combustion and hybrid options, like the new X7 seen in the spy shot below, live on alongside the Neue Klasse EV models.
A Multi-Platform Future
Autocar India, which first reported Goller’s comments, claims BMW will eventually have three platforms: the Neue Klasse for EVs, a new multi-energy version for hybrids (and presumably hydrogen), and a basic platform for entry-level ICE machines.
So will combustion engines never die? Of course they’ll die eventually, but with hybrid help, customer demand, and maybe e-fuels, they’ve got years left in the tank.
Mercedes is developing a new entry-level model on the MMA platform.
It will replace the current A-Class, which will stay in production until 2028.
The new model should adopt an SUV shape and undercut the CLA in price.
Mercedes’ compact car strategy has taken yet another detour, proving once again that long-term plans in Stuttgart rarely stay fixed for long. The new CLA was originally intended to serve as the entry point after the planned phase-out of the A-Class. Those plans have now changed, with the automaker confirming development of a new compact entry. This yet-unnamed car will slot below the CLA and take over from the A-Class once it bows out of production in 2028.
Originally, Mercedes intended to slim down its small car portfolio, positioning the CLA as the gateway into the brand. Built on the new MMA platform, it introduced updated styling, cutting-edge technology, and a blueprint for the next GLA and GLB SUVs.
Chasing Volume Over Exclusivity
However, Mercedes recently decided to step back from its traditional luxury positioning, even phasing out the word “luxury” from its official strategy. CEO Ola Källenius signaled a shift toward wider appeal and higher production volumes, after profits plunged to just a 5.3 percent margin in the first half of the year. With insiders citing excessive focus on costly Maybach and AMG models, Mercedes is preparing a major product push with more attainable compacts and SUVs.
At the same time, strong demand across Europe has convinced the brand to keep the current A-Class hatchback and sedan alive until 2028. Yet even that extension may not be enough, as Mercedes now hints at a fresh entry-level model to keep pace with customer appetite for smaller, more affordable cars.
Mathias Geisen, Member of Mercedes’ Board of Management responsible for Marketing & Sales, spoke to Automobilwoche about the upcoming model: “We’ll be introducing further models based on our new MMA architecture after the CLA. Believe me: In the long run, there will be an entry-level model in the world of Mercedes-Benz.”
Geisen acknowledged the strong customer interest in the A-Class, calling it a “highly relevant vehicle” for Mercedes that helps “bind many of our customers to our brand early on.” He said they extended production to “avoid a supply gap,” hinting that the new entry-level offering could arrive by 2028.
Details remain scarce. Neither the name nor the body style has been confirmed, and powertrain options are still under wraps. German reports indicate the new car might be a modified and cost-effective version of an existing SUV rather than a completely fresh series. That could mean a reworked GLA or a slightly smaller crossover, but Mercedes is keeping its cards close for now.
Priced To Sell
In any case, the new Mercedes crossover is expected to be competitively priced, answering the calls of German dealers. The current A-Class starts at €34,252 ($40,400) in its home market. By contrast, the fully electric CLA begins at €53,066 ($62,527), which actually makes it more expensive than the C-Class sedan at €42,265 ($49,800). A more affordable hybrid CLA is on the way to help close that gap.
The numbers underscore why this lower rung matters. Mercedes’ compact lineup sold 534,800 units in 2024, making up an important chunk of its overall 1,983,000 passenger car sales. In Germany alone, the A-Class accounted for 17,400 out of 257,900 new Mercedes registrations last year. That customer interest is likely what prompted Stuttgart to rethink its strategy and decide against abandoning the lower end of the market.
Goodbye B-Class
While the A-Class lives on, the B-Class is nearing its final chapter. Sales of the compact MPV have steadily declined, and production is scheduled to end in 2026 after a 22-year, three-generation run.
Speaking about upcoming launches, Geisen remarked, “We’re launching more than 40 new models over the next two years. We’ve never had such a large product offensive. Our cars will set new standards in their categories”. Mercedes recently introduced the new GLC EV, serving as a zero-emission alternative to the GLC and a direct rival to the all-new BMW iX3 Neue Klasse.
The Cixi Vigoz trike hits 120 km/h (75 mph) and is legal on public roads.
It features chainless pedaling, active tilting, and a fully enclosed cabin.
Offered on subscription, the French tricycle is built to last at least 15 years.
Bicycles might be fine for a lazy Sunday spin or a spirited ride, but as everyday transport they fall short. They’ll soak you in the rain, freeze you in the wind, and keep you off the highways. Aiming to dodge those drawbacks, French outfit Cixi is working on the Vigoz, a pedal-assisted three-wheeler with electric muscle and just enough refinement to pass as a proper road machine.
The Vigoz sits closer in spirit to small urban runabouts like the Mobilize Duo, Citroen Ami, Fiat Topolino, and Microlino, though it is much faster. With a top speed of 120 km/h (75 mph), it qualifies in the L5 category, which means it is cleared for all public roads and highways in France, and, depending on local red tape, in other markets too.
Pedals Meet Power
At the heart of the three-wheeler is Cixi’s PERS chainless pedaling system, which lets the rider (or is that driver?) influence acceleration or braking with their legs in a more natural way. Pedal resistance can be adjusted to match the rider’s preference, offering light effort or a more involved workout.
Naturally, there is assistance from an electric motor, with a 22 kWh floor-mounted battery allowing for a range of around 160 km (100 miles). Still, extensive use of regenerative braking and more pedaling input can help it go further. A full charge is completed in roughly 6 hours from a standard household socket.
Compact But Clever
The Vigoz has two wheels at the front and a single wheel at the back, with an active tilting mechanism for improved handling. A fully enclosed body keeps things aerodynamic while providing weather protection, and features include LED lighting, wipers, and twin side doors. At the back, an open cargo area with straps offers room for small loads.
Inside, you’ll find room for a driver and one passenger. Both seats are fitted with three-point belts, and there are Isofix mounts in the back for a child seat – although the idea of whisking a toddler down the motorway in this contraption feels like something best left to questionable parenting blogs. Instead of a steering wheel, the Vigoz sticks with its bicycle DNA and uses a handlebar with built-in brakes.
According to Cixi, the Vigoz is built to last for at least 15 years before it is recycled and disposed. This is made possible thanks to the sturdy chassis, replaceable body panels, accessible components for repairs, and, surprisingly, over the air updates.
Pay Monthly, Not Own
Unfortunately, the Vigoz is not yet available for purchase. Cixi still has to build a working prototype with a production-ready design before manufacturing begins in France. When it finally hits the road, ownership won’t be an option either, as the Vigoz will only be offered on subscription, with prices set once production costs are confirmed.
AAA says the annual cost of new vehicle ownership is now $11,577.
Costs are down $719 from last year thanks to falling gas prices.
Full-size trucks cost nearly double small sedans at 98.54¢ per mile.
Between inflation, tariffs, and an assortment of other factors, cars have gotten significantly more expensive. However, buyers are finding some unlikely relief as AAA says the total cost of owning and operating a new vehicle has fallen by $719 compared to 2024.
That’s a pretty significant decline and it brings the total price tag to $11,577, which equates to roughly $965 per month. While that’s still pretty steep, it represents a drop of nearly 6%.
Falling Costs, Changing Trends
AAA attributes the drop to a combination of factors. Lower fuel prices, reduced depreciation, softer finance charges, and an ongoing shift toward more affordable models all contributed to the dip.
According to the association, the study examined the “five top-selling models in each of nine vehicle categories to calculate ownership costs across a number of areas.” It found the average new vehicle loses $4,334 per year in value, over the first five years, which was less than the $4,680 loss in 2024.
Costs by Vehicle Category
Type
Cost
Small Sedan
55.87¢/mile
Medium Sedan
66.37¢/mile
Subcompact SUV
66.11¢/mile
Compact SUV
68.53€/mile
Medium SUV
83.89c/mile
Mid-size Pickup
79.11c/mile
Half-Ton Pickup
98.54¢/mile
Hybrid
63.94¢/mile
Electric
71.21¢/mile
SWIPE
AAA
Electric vehicles did not benefit in the same way as gasoline models. Charging costs rose by nearly a cent per kWh, and higher depreciation, insurance, fees, and financing pushed their overall cost higher. By comparison, gas-powered models enjoyed a dip in running costs, with fuel averaging 13 cents per mile.
Small Cars Lead the Pack
Among all categories, the study found small sedans were the least expensive as they only cost 55.87 cents per mile to operate. Hybrids were second at 63.94 cents per mile as they have low fuel costs as well as reduced maintenance and depreciation.
Third place was a neck-and-neck battle between medium sedans and subcompact crossovers. The latter barely won out as they cost 66.11 cents per mile versus 66.37 cents for mid-size sedans.
Big Trucks, Big Bills
At the other end of the scale, surprising absolutely no one, full-size trucks were the most expensive to operate at 98.54 cents per mile. Electrics weren’t too far behind at 71.21 cents per mile thanks to their massive depreciation.
Thanks to the research, drivers can compare an assortment of different vehicle types with relative ease. If you drive 10,000 miles per year, a mid-size truck would cost you $7,911 annually. Stepping up to a full-size model would increase that to $9,854, which is an extra $1,943 per year. That’s a pretty big difference if you don’t really need half-ton capability.
The new Fulwin X3L is a long-wheelbase version of the recently-launched X3.
Power is provided by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and two electric motors.
The boxy X3L can sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) in an impressive 4.7 seconds.
The funky off-roader you’re looking at is the Fulwin X3L and is built by Chery in China. Despite what you may be thinking, it isn’t a battery-electric vehicle but rather is equipped with a range-extender powertrain, arguably more suitable for a vehicle like this, designed to tackle tough terrain.
If the design of the Fulwin X3L rings some bells to those familiar with Chinese models (well, okay, with Land Rover Defenders too), that’s because it is essentially a rebadged version of the iCar 03T introduced by Chery last year. We’re not sure why the company felt it necessary to offer two versions of essentially the same vehicle under different brands, but it’s 2025, and we’re living in interesting times indeed.
Stance and Size
The X3L is 4,545 mm (179 inches) long, 1,950 mm (76.7 inches) wide, and stands 1,815 mm (71.4 inches) tall, with a 2,783 mm (109.5-inch) wheelbase. The styling clearly borrows cues from classics like the Land Rover Defender and to a lesser extent, the Mercedes G-Class, resulting in a square, upright form that should turn heads on Chinese streets. Pricing is aggressive, starting at 119,900 yuan (around $16,800) and topping out at 149,900 yuan (roughly $21,000).
Powering the X3L is Chery’s Kunpeng Golden range-extender. It combines a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 154 hp, working on conjunction with either a single rear-mounted electric motor with 248 hp, or a pair of electric motors in the all-wheel drive version, combining to deliver 422 hp and 373 lb-ft (505 Nm). Chery says the X3L needs just 4.7 seconds to hit 100 km/h (62 mph), which is pretty rapid for a vehicle like this.
The all-electric range will reportedly vary between 135 km (84 miles) and 215 km (133 miles) depending on the version. When combined with the engine and fuel tank, the X3L should be able to travel up to 1,200 km (746 miles) without stopping.
Off-Road Toys
A slew of different driving modes and off-road-focused settings come standard. These include a tank turn function, off-road cruise control, and low-speed crawling options. Other key features include side steps, a side-opening tailgate, and the option of several different off-road modification kits.
The cabin looks quite nice, even though it won’t win any awards for creativity. Among the key features are a 15.6-inch infotainment display, a small digital gauge cluster, rectangular air vents, and chunky grab handles.
Hyundai reveals new growth strategy with multiple models planned..
A mid-size pickup will launch in North America to rival established trucks.
High-performance N lineup to grow past seven models by end of decade.
Hyundai has used their investor event to unveil a future product roadmap and a “2030 Vision.” It calls for an assortment of new models including range-extended electric vehicles.
Starting stateside, Hyundai announced plans to launch its first body-on-frame mid-size truck in North America by 2030. It will challenge the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, Ford Ranger, Nissan Frontier, Toyota Tacoma, and the reborn Ram Dakota.
The company has high hopes for the pickup as they noted it targets “one of the largest segments in the industry.” Hyundai added they have “gained valuable experience and brand presence” since launching the compact unibody Santa Cruz in 2021. CEO Jose Munoz even hinted that a rugged, off-road SUV could join the lineup built on the same platform.
More N Models And Hybrids
Hyundai’s N lineup will expand to more than seven models by 2030, including the all-new Ioniq 6 N. The company believes the move will increase global N sales to over 100,000 units annually.
Hyundai will also expand its hybrid lineup to include more than 18 models by 2030. They’ll also embrace commercial vehicles in North America by offering a large electrified van as well as the XCIENT fuel cell truck and Translead trailers.
Lots Of New EVs
Baldauf / Carscoops
Hyundai bet big on EVs and even more are on the horizon, including an entry-level Ioniq 3 for Europe. The model was recently previewed by a concept and will be a mass-market vehicle with a next-generation infotainment system.
Sticking with international markets, India will get its first locally designed EV, while China gets a new C-segment electric sedan. The latter will be joined by the recently unveiled Elexio SUV.
The automaker is also gearing up to launch its first range-extended electric vehicles in 2027. They’ll offer more than 600 miles (966 km) of combined range as well as high-performance batteries that were developed in-house. Hyundai said they’ll have “full EV power performance with less than half the battery capacity, improving accessibility while maintaining exceptional range and performance, and eliminating range anxiety.”
Speaking of EVs, Hyundai noted a cloud-based battery management system is coming in 2026. It promises to “collect data from diverse vehicle environments, applying proprietary advanced modeling for faster, more precise diagnostics.”
We can also expect next-generation batteries that will arrive by 2027. These are said to be 30% cheaper despite having a 15% higher energy density. Charging times will also drop by 15%, making ownership more convenient.
Hyundai is also developing next-generation fuel cell systems for commercial vehicles. These promise to have “high efficiency, durability and power output to meet the demands of future mobility.”
Genesis Gets Some Love
On the luxury side of the equation, the Genesis lineup will expand to include hybrid, electric, and range-extended vehicles. The first hybrid will arrive next year and the company said their next-generation platform will support multi-energy configurations.
Genesis is aiming to increase annual sales to 350,000 units by 2030, and they’ll achieve this by expanding their presence in the United States, Europe, Korea, China, the Middle East, and emerging markets. Speaking of Europe, the brand is planning to be in up to 20 European markets in the coming years.
In the United States, Genesis is planning to strengthen its market presence through local production and the introduction of range-extended EVs. The company also mentioned “ultra-bespoke vehicles,” hinting at possible ultra-luxury ambitions.
Company Eyes Increased Sales And More US Production
Overall, Hyundai is targeting global sales of 5.55 million vehicles by 2030. They’re banking on “significant growth” in North America, Europe, and Korea to achieve this.
Getting back to the United States, the Hyundai Metaplant in Georgia is set to increase its annual production capacity to 500,000 vehicles by 2028. The plant currently builds the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9, but it will eventually make hybrids as well.
Hyundai said the expansion will create 3,000 direct and indirect jobs, and involve a $2.7 billion investment over three years. The company also aims to produce more than 80% of vehicles sold in the United States domestically by 2030, with supply chain content increasing from 60% to 80%.
BMW is preparing to update its smallest SUV with Neue Klasse styling and tech.
The refreshed X1 and iX1 will gain a fully redesigned exterior and updated interior.
It could debut as early as next year, and may even be labeled as a new generation.
BMW’s Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) updates often slip in with quiet exterior tweaks, the kind you might miss if you blink. This time, though, the brand seems to be shifting gears with the X1. Instead of modest changes, the entry-level SUV, or SAV in BMW terminology, is headed for a radical redesign that also transforms the interior.
With influences from BMW’s Neue Klasse design language making their way in, it raises the question: is this really a facelift, or does it mark the start of a fresh generation, like what we saw with the 1-Series?
Recent sightings of heavily camouflaged prototypes have already hinted at the direction, and now we have a clearer picture. Using those spy shots as a base, digital artist Nikita Chuiko from Kolesahas created new renderings of the next X1. These visuals provide us with a fairly accurate preview.
A Sharper Face
The refreshed SUV will carry BMW’s new front-end identity, featuring a slimmer kidney grille and sharper LED headlights that echo the look of the new iX3. The bumper, hood, and fenders will be redesigned too, softening some of the current model’s aggressive lines, especially those emphasized in the M Sport trim.
The sheet metal on the profile won’t be identical, with the X1 gaining pop-out door handles, sleeker surfacing and more aerodynamic mirrors. The greenhouse should be carried over, but there could be a few changes on the D-pillar that remained covered in the prototypes. Finally, BMW designers will add new options for the alloy wheels, contributing to a more modern stance.
The tail will also mark a stylistical departure from the current X1. The L-shaped taillights will give way to elongated units separated by the BMW emblem and the license plate will be positioned lower on the tailgate, unlike the iX3 where it is mounted on the bumper.
Inside the Neue Klasse
The X1’s interior won’t miss out on the Neue Klasse treatment either and will gain the new Panoramic iDrive cockpit with a slim display covering the base of the windshield. There will also be a larger infotainment touchscreen with a trapezoidal shape, although we don’t know whether it will match the 17.9-inch diameter of the iX3’s. The new layout will most likely be combined with a four-spoke steering wheel and new options for the upholstery.
Under The Hood
The X1 already covers a wide spectrum of powertrains, from mild hybrids to plug-in hybrid and the fully electric iX1. These options are expected to remain, but with incremental improvements in efficiency and performance.
The fully electric iX1 is currently available in FWD and AWD forms with a range between 415-475 km (257-295 miles), but BMW might want to improve those figures amid the fierce competition from newer rivals. This could be achieved with new battery packs, more efficient electric motors, and better aerodynamics.
When Will It Arrive?
The third generation of the BMW X1 was introduced in mid-2022, meaning it is already three years old. According to earlier reports, the mid-lifecycle update would debut in 2027. However, given the prototype activity and BMW’s ambitious product strategy, a 2026 debut seems increasingly likely.
Munich has confirmed the launch of 40 new or updated models with Neue Klasse styling and technology by 2027. BMW AG’s Chairman of the Board of Management Oliver Zipse has stated that every model that will arrive from 2026 onward will be new. It remains to be seen whether the next iteration of the X1 will be labeled as an extensive facelift or a new generation.
BYD disputes claims that Leapmotor outsold it in Germany, citing official KBA data.
Stellantis clarifies CEO referred to Leapmotor’s August performance in the country.
BYD sold 8.6K vehicles between January and August, more than double Leapmotor’s tally.
Update: Stellantis has clarified that CEO Antonio Filosa’s remarks were focused on Leapmotor’s sales performance in Germany in August and not the entire year. He was specifically referring to the Leapmotor T03, which ranked as the country’s best-selling Chinese electric vehicle that month, while Leapmotor overall claimed the top spot as Germany’s best-selling Chinese battery-electric brand, again for August.
“Antonio Filosa’s statement about Leapmotor’s sales of battery electric vehicle (BEV) in Germany in the month of August 2025 are accurate and confirmed by the national industry’s database (KBA),” the Stellantis spokesperson told us.
“In August 2025, in Germany, Leapmotor was the best-selling Chinese BEV brand and Leapmotor T03 was the best-selling Chinese BEV” he explained. The spokesperson also added,, “All other assessments from the competition cannot be linked to what was stated yesterday by our CEO”.
Original story continues below.
It seems a brewing rivalry has spilled into the press. Chinese automaker BYD has pushed back against comments attributed to Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa, reportedly made on Thursday in reference to Leapmotor, though the original source of his remarks is still unclear. We’ve reached out to both sides for clarification.
A Question of Interpretation
According to BYD, Filosa was quoted as saying that “in Germany Leapmotor sold more than BYD.” While Stellantis does not own Leapmotor outright, it holds a minority stake and controls exports outside China through Leapmotor International, a joint venture in which Stellantis has a 51 percent share.
The Chinese automaker disputes the claim, citing its own sales data that show it still has a clear lead. Along the way, BYD also couldn’t resist pointing out how its numbers stack up against Stellantis’ own brands.
According to BYD, they sold 8,610 vehicles in Germany between January and August 2025, which is a far cry from the 3,536 sales of Leapmotor over the same period. These numbers can be broken down to 5,852 BEVs and 2,757 PHEVs for BYD, versus 3,088 BEVs and 448 PHEVs for Leapmotor.
We checked the official registration data from Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), which confirm a similar picture. Between January and August 2025, BYD recorded 8,563 new registrations, compared with 3,531 for Leapmotor. In August alone, the gap narrowed, though BYD still came out ahead with 1,114 units versus Leapmotor’s 826.
It is possible the remarks were lost in translation, or that Filosa simply misspoke in Leapmotor’s favor. He may also have been referring to narrower metrics that have not yet surfaced. While overall sales figures for August are available, the detailed breakdown between BEVs and PHEVs has not been published. A clearer picture should emerge once both companies respond to requests for clarification.
BYD Compares Itself to Alfa Romeo and Jeep
While January–August sales alone would have been enough to counter the CEO’s alleged remarks, BYD went further, highlighting its performance against Stellantis-owned Alfa Romeo and Jeep.
The Chinese automaker bragged about outselling Alfa Romeo in Germany so far in 2025, a curious flex given the two brands operate in completely different segments and court completely different buyers. More specifically, the Italian marque reportedly sold 5,226 units, 5,222 according to KBA, including just 140 BEVs (Junior Elettrica) and 34 PHEVs (Tonale PHEV).
In the same vein, BYD said it sold more EVs and PHEVs than Jeep, 350 BEVs and 569 PHEVs, and claims it is closing in on overall volume, only 278 units behind. KBA data indicate that Jeep sold 8,884 units in Germany between January and August 2025, which is 321 more than BYD, a small gap that may reflect different cuts of the data or timing.
A Significantly Wider Range Of Products
A quick look at their local websites proves that BYD has a significantly larger lineup in Germany compared to Leapmotor. BYD currently offers the Dolphin Surf, Dolphin, Atto 2, Atto 3, Sealion 7, Seal, Seal U, and Tang EVs, plus the Seal U DM-i and Seal 6 DM-i PHEVs in the German market.
On the other hand, Leapmotor is currently limited to the T03 urban EV, the B10 electric crossover, and the C10 SUV in electric and range-extender versions. The range will expand soon with the the new B05 electric hatchback that debuted in Munich.
It will be interesting to see whether the marketing war between the two Chinese brands will continue with more statements in the future, and how both of them will evolve in terms of sales in export markets. On the global stage, however, the contest is lopsided: in the first half of 2025 BYD sold 2,145,954 vehicles, nearly ten times Leapmotor’s 221,664.
Ford will reportedly launch a new Focus-sized crossover in 2027.
The model could be offered with hybrid and electric powertrains.
It’s expected to be sold alongside the Kuga and share components.
Sedans and hatchbacks have fallen out of favor with consumers, who have embraced SUVs. Automakers have responded by gutting their car lineups and adding an assortment of new crossovers.
Ford will reportedly add another crossover to their lineup in 2027 and it could fill the hole being left by the departing Focus. The model will reportedly be built in Spain and serve a key role in reestablishing Ford in Europe.
Autocar reports the model will be a mid-sized crossover, but won’t replace the Kuga. This is interesting to note as the Kuga’s American cousin, the Escape, is getting the axe.
Instead, the crossover will reportedly be built alongside the Kuga and offered with hybrid and electric powertrains. The two models are also rumored to share key components in a bid to keep costs down.
While specifics are few and far between, the model could ride on the aging C2 platform, which underpins everything from the Bronco Sport and Maverick to the outgoing Focus. The model is also expected to be relatively affordable and positioned as a rival to the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Volkswagen Tiguan.
While it’s probably too early to talk numbers, there’s a huge gap between the £26,245 ($33,600) that the Puma Gen-E costs in Britain and the £39,285 ($50,300) Explorer EV. This means that if the upcoming EV variant was priced at £32,765 ($42,000), it would be perfectly positioned between both those models.
Little else is known about the crossover at this point, but the company will reportedly put an emphasis on design and driving dynamics. Unfortunately, the chances of it coming stateside seem slim to none.
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