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Move Over VW, Stellantis Is Making Its Own GTi

  • Peugeot will revive the GTi moniker in a hotter version of the E-208 small hatchback
  • The model could borrow bits from the Abarth 600e and the Opel Mokka GSE SUVs.
  • Peugeot hasn’t had a GTi in its line-up since the previous generations 208 and 308.

There’s still life in the hot hatch world, and Peugeot isn’t letting electrification dull its edge. The brand is bringing back the GTi badge, and this time, it’s going on an EV.

Peugeot has confirmed it will launch a GTi version of the all-electric E-208, marking the return of its storied performance line. The new hot hatch is set to make its debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans on June 13, and it could pave the way for future GTi variants across the French automaker’s lineup.

The E-208 GTI will be the automaker’s first performance-focused electric vehicle and targets buyers who want something engaging to drive. Peugeot boss Alain Favey said relaunching the GTi brand will help it “reconnect” with its past and history while also establishing a link between its road cars and its involvement in the World Endurance Championship.

More: VW Promises A Whole Family Of ‘Mind-Blowing’ GTIs, But There’s A Catch

“I’m in a position to confirm that we will reintroduce the GTi on the E-208 as soon as possible,” Favey told Autocar. “We’ve made the decision that Peugeot GTi will be reintroduced. We want to continue to nurture the reputation of the brand for driving sensations and the fact that our cars produce particular driving sensations, either as a driver or as someone that is being driven in the car.”

The return of the GTi will effectively replace the short-lived Peugeot Sport Engineered (PSE) badge. The latter was only applied on the 508 in sedan and SW forms, despite initial plans of an entire lineup of electrified performance variants.

 Move Over VW, Stellantis Is Making Its Own GTi
A Peugeot 208 GTi render based on the Racing edition of the hatchback.

The GTi version of the E-208 could borrow powertrain components from the Abarth 600e, Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce, and the upcoming Opel Mokka GSE. The mechanically-related SUVs generate from 237 hp (177 kW / 240 PS) up to 278 hp (207 kW / 280 PS) from a single electric motor. Power is transmitted to the front wheels with the help of a limited-slip differential.

More: Stellantis Turns Small SUV Into An Electric Rally Weapon

Given that the Peugeot E-208 is a bit smaller and lighter, it should be pretty nippy, perhaps capable of hitting 60 mph (96 km/h) in less than 6 seconds. The model will most likely benefit from styling and chassis upgrades, communicating its sporty character.

Favey added that, apart from the E-208, Peugeot will consider launching a new combustion-engined GTi if that’s what customers want.

“We will start with the 208 and [are] definitely listening to your inputs, or what our customers will say as well,” he said. “We don’t exclude that there might be other executions of the 208 GTi under the GTi badge, but for today there’s absolutely nothing planned in that sense.”

Thanos Pappas contributed to this story.

 Move Over VW, Stellantis Is Making Its Own GTi
Peugeot E-208 GT-Line

BMW’s Baby M SUV Might Be Lurking Under This iX3

  • Several pre-production prototypes of the 2026 BMW iX3 were spotted in the wild.
  • The latest batch of spy shots reveals the final lighting signature of the electric SUV.
  • BMW’s first Neue Klasse offering will be revealed this fall at the Munich Auto Show.

Update: With its world debut now confirmed for this September at the Munich Motor Show, BMW is putting the finishing touches on the new iX3. The electric SUV has been in development for quite some time, and the latest images from Nurburgring testing show the prototype fitted with what appear to be the finalized headlight and taillight designs.

More: BMW’s New EVs Come With 43 Layers Of Synthetic Vroom And Zero Shame

One of the test vehicles caught by our spy photographers was fitted with wheels that resemble those from the Vision Neue Klasse sedan concept. It’s still unclear whether these are standard alloys or aero-style covers, but the more pronounced side skirts and bulkier front bumper point to this tester being the M Performance variant, similar to the electric iX M50 or the current gas-powered X3 M50

This sportier version of the iX3 is expected to feature a dual-motor setup and will probably retain the M50 badge. Beyond the upgraded powertrain and more aggressive exterior styling, it’s expected to feature an M-tuned chassis with a firmer, lower suspension and drive modes tailored specifically for performance.

More: 2026 BMW iX3 Neue Klasse Renders Patents Into Reality

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Previously, our photographers also spotted a pre-production prototype of the upcoming BMW iX3 Neue Klasse SUV not long after it rolled off the line at the automaker’s plant in Hungary. The fully electric model is now undergoing final-stage development tests ahead of its planned market launch towards the end of 2025.

The BMW iX3 Neue Klasse made its spy debut in November 2023, but early prototypes featured provisional lighting units. The new prototype is fitted with the production headlights and taillights, revealing a modern LED lighting signature. This was the last missing piece of the puzzle, as the bodywork of the SUV has already been uncovered in recent patent drawings.

What’s Up With The Frunk?

The new prototype was also spotted with its hood open. While the BMW iX3 doesn’t appear to have a frunk, as the front space is currently packed with drivetrain hardware, this setup might just be a cover in both the literal and figurative sense, acting as a placeholder for testing. The final production model will in all likelihood include front storage, similar to what’s found in other EVs.

We can also see the iX3’s pop-out door handles, which are less futuristic than the fin-shaped solution of the Vision Neue Klasse X concept. Judging from earlier spy shots, these will likely find their way into the larger iX5.

The wheels of the prototype suggest that this is one of the lesser versions of the BMW iX3. Our spy photographers suggest that the wheel diameter of the production model will be between 18 inches and 22 inches depending on the trim. The larger size will likely be reserved for the performance-focused offering by BMW M.

 BMW’s Baby M SUV Might Be Lurking Under This iX3
The camouflaged prototype of the BMW iX3 (above) compared to the patent drawings (below).
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Neue Klasse, First of Many

The new BMW iX3 will be the first production model to adopt the Neue Klasse styling language before it gets applied to the automaker’s entire range of combustion and electric models. The iX3 will be followed by the i3 sedan, the similarly-sized 3-Series, and the new generation of the X5/iX5, which are set to debut in the coming years.

Under the skin, the Neue Klasse platform supports a new generation of lighter and more efficient electric motors. The iX3 will launch with single and dual-motor configurations, with output expected to range from around 300 to 600 horsepower. It will also feature 800V electrical architecture for faster charging and house next-generation batteries that are 20% more energy-dense, boosting range and efficiency by up to 30%. In its top configuration, the iX3 could travel as far as 800 kilometers, or about 500 miles, on a full charge.

Series production of the Neue Klasse-based iX3 is scheduled to begin later in the second half of 2025.

John Halas contributed to this story.

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SH Proshots

Brand That Thinks We Don’t Need Rear Windows Is Now Drowning In Reversing Camera Issues

  • Polestar is recalling 27,816 examples of its 2 EV due to a fault with their reversing cameras.
  • Some customers reported seeing a “camera temporarily unavailable” message on the screen.
  • The Polestar 2 does have a glass rear window, but the same company’s 4 crossover does not.

There are plenty of reasons to like the Polestar 4, including its modern coupe-SUV design, high quality interior and generous equipment levels. But if you remember anything from the 4’s debut I’ll bet it’s that it doesn’t have a rear window, Polestar reasoning that we don’t need glass back there because a camera can do a better job.

But now the Geely-owned company has been forced to issue a second recall for faulty back-up cameras, reminding us why most cars have had a window in the back for more than a century, and why they probably ought to hang on to them for a while yet.

Related: 2026 Polestar 2 Looks The Same But Hides Major Interior Upgrade

To be clear, this recall doesn’t relate to the 4, but rather the Polestar 2, which does have a rear window and was recently pulled from sale in the US due to President Trump’s tariffs. However, given how widespread camera glitches are on cars from almost every brand (Ford, Hyundai, Kia, JLR, multiple Stellantis brands and more have issued related recalls) it wouldn’t be much of a surprise if the 4 ends up with a problem at some point . And unfortunately, like mentioned above, if this happens, the driver doesn’t have a backup window (pun definitely intended).

In this case, Polestar is recalling 27,816 examples of its 2 EV so it can update the software, something that unfortunately can’t be done over-the-air. The campaign affecting 2021-25 MY cars comes in response to some owners claiming their cameras were totally inoperative. Instead of showing the road behind them when reverse was selected, the screen displayed a message saying “camera is temporarily unavailable.”

 Brand That Thinks We Don’t Need Rear Windows Is Now Drowning In Reversing Camera Issues

The automaker says the fault is down to a synchronization error between the Parking Assist Camera (PAC) and the infotainment system. If this sounds familiar it’s probably because Polestar already issued a similar recall in June 2024 covering almost 26,000 examples of the 2 EV. In that case, the recall fix was an OTA update, but it also wasn’t much of a fix.

Polestar’s upcoming 5 EV is also designed without a rear window, as is Jaguar’s controversial-looking new electric sedan. Do you think automakers should be forced to retain a window for safety reasons or are these cases too isolated and designers may continue to go wild?

 Brand That Thinks We Don’t Need Rear Windows Is Now Drowning In Reversing Camera Issues

Tesla Couldn’t Even Sell Its Model Y Launch Editions As Hundreds Are Sitting Unsold

  • The Model Y Launch Edition is available for $52,490 with a $7,500 federal EV tax credit.
  • All Launch Series models include the Acceleration Boost for a 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds.

Update: As it turns out, there are a lot more unsold Launch Edition Model Ys floating around than we initially thought. When we looked into it last week, there were only 18 Launch Editions available across the USA. Well, we checked again, and now Tesla is showing that it has a whopping 328 in stock.

What’s interesting is that when the Launch Edition was first available to order, the white interior was supposedly “sold out.” Now, out of those 328 cars, 202 come with that very white interior. Meanwhile, Tesla’s overall Model Y inventory has also swelled to 626 examples of the Juniper, according to Tesla-Info stats. So, yes, a lot has changed since our last update. We’ve tweaked the article below to reflect the latest numbers.

 Tesla Couldn’t Even Sell Its Model Y Launch Editions As Hundreds Are Sitting Unsold

Back in late January, Tesla rolled out its updated Model Y to the U.S. market with the limited-run Launch Edition. But, much like that one band you only get to see live in a tiny venue before they blow up, the Launch Edition was only available for a brief moment. The clock ticked down on those special editions in less than two months, before the more mainstream Long Range AWD version of the refreshed Model Y made its debut.

Read: At $59,990, New 2025 Tesla Model Y Juniper Launch Series Is $4K Cheaper Than The Old One

If you missed your chance to grab one, there’s plenty of hope, as at the time of publishing, at least 328 are listed in Tesla’s U.S. inventory. We’ve been keeping an eye on the numbers, and it looks like Tesla continues to quietly add more every few days. Apparently, the company didn’t manage to sell through all of its special edition Launch Series models, which isn’t all that surprising considering the recent dip in its overall sales.

A deeper dive into Tesla-Info’s current listings shows there are 626 examples of the 2026 Model Y sitting in inventory, ready for delivery without the need to go through the usual wait tied to custom orders. Among them, are the aforementioned Launch Series editions, all listed at the original $59,990 sticker price. That drops to $52,490 if you qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.

Buyers can choose from nearly every available color (except the new Diamond Black), along with the 20-inch Helix wheels or the smaller, more efficient 19-inch Crossflow rims. While the Launch Series comes fully loaded with all the major options, Tesla still offered some flexibility in choosing colors, wheels, and other select features. However, every model in this batch includes the $2,000 Acceleration Boost and the $8,000 Full-Self Driving Beta capability as standard.

These Launch Edition models are scattered across a variety of states, including Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, Rhode Island, New Jersey, and Washington, among others.

 Tesla Couldn’t Even Sell Its Model Y Launch Editions As Hundreds Are Sitting Unsold

All Model Y Launch Series models come equipped with dual-motor all-wheel drive and are rated for an estimated 327 miles (526 kilometers) of range with the 19-inch wheels, or 303 miles (488 kilometers) with the larger 20s. With the Acceleration Boost activated, they’ll go from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) in a quick 4.1 seconds with rollout, and reach a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h).

More: Seres 5 Crushes Tesla Model Y In Comfort But Loses The Battle Where It Counts

Is the so-called Juniper Model Y better than the car it replaces? According to early reviews from both owners and journalists, the answer seems to be yes. The new Model Y is reportedly quieter, smoother to drive, and just looks more polished overall. Whether you’re a Tesla fan or not, there’s a growing consensus that the refreshed model is a strong step forward.

So, Is the Launch Edition Worth It?

Whether the premium for the Launch Edition is worth it really depends on how much you value the included standard features. Technically, it saves you several thousand dollars compared to fully optioning a standard Long Range AWD model, which isn’t the case for all the other inventory units currently available. If those extras don’t matter to you, the standard LR offers much better value. You can even add the Acceleration Boost for $2,000 through the app, so it’s not exactly a deal-breaker.

Plus, if you’re in a state like Massachusetts, which offers an additional $3,500 rebate for EVs priced under $50,000, the Launch Edition’s price tag will disqualify it from that sweet rebate.

John Halas contributed to this story.

 Tesla Couldn’t Even Sell Its Model Y Launch Editions As Hundreds Are Sitting Unsold

Citroen Just Put The Biggest Screen Ever In A Stellantis Model

  • Citroen has shown the production version of the new C5 Aircross SUV.
  • The model is available with fully electric, mild hybrid and PHEV options.
  • The interior gains new technology, alongside extra comfort and practicality.

The wraps are off the next-generation Citroen C5 Aircross, which offers a blend of familiar eccentricity and a fresh batch of tech upgrades that push the quirky SUV further into modern territory. While sticking close to the spirit of the original concept, the new C5 Aircross brings a more polished design, greater comfort, and a lineup of electrified powertrains, including fully electric, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options.

The revised model adopts the new family face of Citroen, already introduced on the latest C3, C4, C4 X, and Berlingo. The bodywork is more sculpted than before, with a clear focus on aerodynamics to boost efficiency. Wheel sizes climb up to 20 inches, paired with a healthy 200 mm (7.9 inches) of ground clearance for those occasional curb-hopping adventures.

More: 2025 Citroen C4 And C4 X Debut In Paris With A New Face

Interestingly, the production model has retained the protruding LED taillights of the concept, infusing some French quirkiness into the family hauler. In fact, the only notable changes from concept to production are the more conventional door handles, and the thicker pillars.

In terms of size, the new C5 Aircross stretches to 4,652 mm (183.1 inches) in length, riding on a 2,784 mm (109.6 inches) wheelbase. That is an increase of 150 mm (5.9 inches) and 60 mm (2.4 inches) respectively compared to its predecessor, giving the SUV a more substantial footprint without straying too far from its original proportions.

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A Bigger, Smarter Interior

The headline feature inside the “C-Zen Lounge” cabin is a floating 13-inch portrait-style infotainment screen, joined by a neat row of physical buttons underneath. Citroen proudly claims this is the largest central high-definition screen ever offered by a Stellantis brand, an impressive but curious boast considering Citroen’s usual spot as the group’s more budget-friendly option in Europe.

Other tech highlights include a 10-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, wireless charging, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. Storage solutions are smartly arranged, with two cupholders hidden behind the touchscreen and extra compartments in the central armrest and door bins. The overall layout feels clean, user-friendly, and much more inviting for daily use.

Review: Here’s Why I Bought A Citroen C5 Aircross As A Family Hauler

Citroen ‘s designers leaned heavily into their comfort-first philosophy. Foam fabric covers the dashboard, door cards, and seats, creating a soft, cocoon-like feel inside. The latest version of Citroen’s Advance Comfort seats promises better cushioning and improved body support. Front seats are available with electric adjustments, heating, ventilation, and even massaging functions. Rear passengers get reclining backrests and optional seat heating, although the previous model’s trick three-separate-seat layout and sliding bench have been abandoned.

The larger size pays dividends in passenger space, with more generous legroom and headroom for those riding in the back. Cargo capacity is also up, offering 651 liters (23 cubic feet) regardless of which powertrain is fitted. Extra hidden spaces include a 75-liter (2.6 cubic feet) compartment under the boot floor and another 40 liters (1.4 cubic feet) scattered around the cabin for smaller items.

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Platform and Powertrain Details

The new C5 Aircross rides on Stellantis’ STLA Medium architecture, the same platform underpinning the Peugeot 3008/5008, Opel Grandland, and DS No8. It will likely support the upcoming DS No7 too. These shared bones open the door for fully electric powertrains – a first for the nameplate – joining the mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. All versions of the new C5 Aircross are automatic and drive the front wheels.

The e-C5 Aircross is available in two different versions with a single electric motor, missing out on the dual-motor powertrains of the Peugeot siblings. The Standard Range produces 207 hp (154 kW / 210 PS) and offers 323 miles (520 km) of range from a 73 kWh battery pack. The Extended Range produces 227 hp (169 kW / 230 PS) and can cover up to 422 miles (679 km) between charges thanks to a larger 97 kWh battery. In both cases, the maximum charging rate is 160 kW DC.

The entry-level C5 Aircross Hybrid 145 is probably the most interesting option for buyers. The carry-over turbo 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine is good for 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), with a 12 hp (9 kW) electric motor integrated in the six-speed dual-clutch automatic, sourcing energy from a 0.9 kWh battery.

Finally, there is the C5 Aircross Plug-in Hybrid 195 version. It pairs a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine to a single electric motor, producing a combined 193 hp (143 kW / 195 PS). Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. More importantly, the 21 kW battery pack provides an extended EV-only range of 53 miles (85 km).

More: This Mid-Engine Beast Is No Regular Citroen Hatch

As with its predecessor, the C5 Aircross has a Citroen-specific suspension with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions, promising a “magic carpet ride”. Finally, the available Drive Assist 2.0 pack enables Level 2 autonomous driving.

With the C5X fastback crossover on the way out once the current generation wraps up, the C5 Aircross is set to take over as Citroen’s flagship model. It is a logical, if not thrilling, evolution for the brand as it doubles down on practicality, comfort, and now, electrification.

The new Citroën C5 Aircross is set to launch in Europe in the second half of 2025. It will be produced at the Rennes plant in France, with pricing to be announced closer to the release date.

Cybertruck’s $16K Range Booster Is Dead And Tesla Isn’t Saying Why

  • Tesla removed the Range Extender from its Cybertruck configurator without public explanation.
  • Customers placed $2,000 non-refundable deposits for the now-missing $16,000 battery upgrade.
  • The brand promised the Range Extender would significantly boost dual and tri-motor driving ranges.

Update: It’s now official, as Tesla has started emailing Cybertruck owners who pre-ordered the $16,000 range extender battery pack, confirming that it’s “no longer planning to sell” the add-on. The company says it will refund the $2,000 deposits, but hasn’t provided any further explanation. The news marks yet another setback for Cybertruck buyers, who were also promised Autosteer but won’t be getting it. Instead, Tesla is tossing in one year of Full Self-Driving access as a consolation prize.

So much for Cybertruck Range Extender RIP pic.twitter.com/sw1mTcIvZf

— Drake (@TheRealDriiZZy) May 7, 2025

Tesla’s Cybertruck rollout has been full of surprises, most of them frustrating. Among the more puzzling was the $16,000 Range Extender, which was supposed to significantly boost the truck’s underwhelming driving range. To reserve it, customers had to put down a $2,000 non-refundable deposit. That’s a lot of money for a product that may no longer exist as the option appears to have now vanished from Tesla’s online configurator.

While there’s been no official statement about the option being scrapped for good, Tesla has a long history of quietly dropping features and adjusting pricing with little to no warning. For anyone who put money down expecting that extra range, this isn’t great news.

Read: Tesla Delays Cybertruck Range Extender Battery To “Mid-2025”

The Range Extender always seemed a little odd. For $16,000, Cybertruck owners could get an auxiliary battery pack that would take up nearly half the truck bed. It was intended for those who found the stock range too limiting, never mind the compromise in utility.

Tesla never publicized the battery capacity of this pack, only promising it would boost the dual motor’s range from 340 miles (547 km) to 445+ miles. It was also going to increase the tri-motor Cybertruck’s range from 320 miles (515 km) to 440 miles (708 km). The company even opened reservations, asking buyers for a $2,000 non-refundable deposit.

 Cybertruck’s $16K Range Booster Is Dead And Tesla Isn’t Saying Why

Big And Heavy

Some estimates suggested the Range Extender pack would need a capacity of around 47 kWh to bump up the truck’s range so significantly. That’s a similar-sized battery to some small EVs on the market, and the pack may have weighed upwards of 600 lbs (272 kg). If that were the case, it would need to be professionally installed by a Tesla center, and would not be something that owners could easily fit and remove if they were planning any long road trips.

Tesla initially planned to launch the battery in early 2025, but in October last year, it pushed back that launch until mid-2025. That time is now fast approaching, and the Range Extender is nowhere to be seen.

 Cybertruck’s $16K Range Booster Is Dead And Tesla Isn’t Saying Why
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