The updated Bolt features a 65 kWh LFP battery with 255-mile range.
Chevy added a NACS port and boosted DC charging speeds to 150 kW.
Power comes from the same 210 hp motor used in the Equinox EV.
In a market where federal tax credits are no longer cushioning electric car prices, the upcoming 2027 Chevrolet Bolt arrives as GM’s latest attempt to keep affordable EVs within reach. Shown off quietly to existing owners, the 2027 model rolls in at $29,990 including destination fees, offering a handful of upgrades over its predecessor rather than any sweeping reinvention.
This represents a modest price increase over the 2023 model that was discontinued two years ago, and although it remains the most affordable EV from an American brand, the new Bolt still sits several thousand dollars above the entry-level 2026 Nissan Leaf, which is due to arrive next spring starting at $25,360.
Production and Core Specs
At a recent event, Chevrolet confirmed that production of the 2027 Bolt will begin early next year at its Kansas City facility. As revealed in recent images, the electric hatch will include a standard NACS charging port, aligning it with the new industry standard.
It has also been confirmed to come standard with a new 65 kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery pack that will provide it with 255 miles (410 km) of driving range, according to GM’s own estimates. That represents a modest improvement over the outgoing model’s 247-mile figure.
Photos Chevrolet
Beyond boasting a better range than the outgoing Bolt, the new one’s DC charging speeds are no longer capped at 50 kW. Instead, it can charge at up to 150 kW, meaning the battery can be topped up from 10-80 percent in 26 minutes. That’s a big improvement over the old model and matches the charging speeds of the new Leaf.
Chevy has also equipped the Bolt with a new motor, borrowing the unit found in the Equinox EV and producing 210 hp. Performance times have yet to be announced, not that Bolt owners are the kinds of buyers that’ll be participating in traffic light races.
Pricing and Trims
The 2027 Bolt will debut first as a Launch Edition, starting at $29,990 with destination and delivery included. A slightly more affordable LT trim will follow next year priced from $28,995.
From a visual standpoint, the alterations made to the Bolt are less significant than many had expected. Indeed, it mostly looks like a facelifted version of the outgoing model. Key changes made include the fitment of new headlights, different taillights, and a unique tailgate with a redesigned bumper.
The interior is also very similar. However, Chevy has added a larger digital instrument cluster and moved away from gear selector buttons on the transmission tunnel, instead opting for an electronic column shifter.
A particularly welcome addition is a set of large physical dials for temperature and fan speed, providing straightforward control without touchscreen fuss. Two new storage compartments now sit within the dashboard, directly in front of the passenger, adding extra practicality to the cabin.
Hyundai cut Ioniq 6 prices in Australia by nearly AU$35,000 to clear stock.
Prices for the 2023MY sedan start at AU$49,990, down from AU$77,554.
Only 93 Ioniq 6 units sold in Australia this year, down sharply from 2024.
If you’ve ever wondered what a serious price slash looks like, this might be it. Hyundai has cut prices dramatically for the Ioniq 6, though the offer applies only to Australia. To clear remaining 2023 model-year stock, the all-electric sedan now costs up to AU$35,000 (equal to around $23,000 at current exchange rates) less than before, bringing it closer in price to China’s growing wave of EV competitors.
The Ioniq 6 range now kicks off from AU$49,990 ($32,815) drive-away for the Dynamic, with all on-road costs included. Previously, buyers needed to splurge AU$77,554 ($50,909) to get one on the road, a hard sell given that the Tesla Model 3 starts at $60,205 ($39,520).
Mid-range buyers benefit too. The Ioniq 6 Techniq’s price has been trimmed from AU$88,579 ($58,146) with on-road costs to AU$54,990 ($36,097), saving AU$33,589 ($22,049).
At the top of the line, the flagship Ioniq 6 Epiq now lists for AU$59,990 ($39,379), a reduction of AU$34,142 ($22,412) from its previous AU$94,132 ($61,791) figure, inclusive of all fees.
Slow Sales
Despite its specs, the Ioniq 6 has never proven as popular as the retro-themed Ioniq 5, mostly due to its divisive styling. This year, Hyundai has sold just 93 examples of the Ioniq 6 in Australia, a huge fall from the 330 sold in 2024 and the 417 that found new homes in 2023.
In a statement to Drive, Hyundai confirmed it still has 115 units of the 2023 Ioniq 6 in stock and hopes to clear them before the updated 2026 model-year version reaches showrooms.
Power and Range Options
Those who want to get behind the wheel of the base Ioniq 6 Dynamic get a 225 hp (168 kW) rear-mounted electric motor, a 77.4 kWh battery pack, and an estimated 381 miles (614 km) of driving range.
Step up to the Techniq and the Epiq, and the 221 hp (165 kW) rear motor is supplemented by a 74 kW front motor, resulting in a combined 320 hp (239 kW) and 446 lb-ft (605 Nm). The battery pack remains the same, and the range is reduced to 322 miles (519 km).
Volvo will offer a new entry-level EX90 Single Motor in the United States.
The EX30 also gains a new rear-wheel drive variant that starts at $38,950.
They’re being joined by the new EX30 Cross Country and EX40 Black Edition.
Volvo recently introduced the 2026 EX90, which features a host of improvements including an all-new 800-volt electrical architecture. Now, the company has shared more details about the U.S.-spec version of its flagship electric SUV.
While the Swedish luxury brand didn’t go into many specifics, they confirmed plans to offer a new entry-level variant with a single electric motor.
Volvo went on to reveal the Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance will have upgraded powertrains that produce up to 670 hp (500 kW / 679 PS). According to the company, that output officially makes the EX90 Twin Motor Performance the most powerful production Volvo ever built.
Volvo didn’t mention numbers for the other variants, but the upgraded Polestar 3 offers a rear-wheel drive model with 329 hp (245 kW / 333 PS) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque. The company also offers a dual-motor crossover with 536 hp (400 kW / 544 PS) and 546 lb-ft (740 Nm) of torque.
Besides powertrain tweaks, Volvo mentioned a newly available electrochromic panoramic roof as well as ventilated Nappa leather seats. This is on top of the other upgrades, which include faster charging, new safety features, and additional computing power.
EX30 Now Offers Rear-Wheel Drive
The EX90 isn’t the only crossover gaining a new entry-level variant as Volvo will offer an EX30 Single Motor. It starts at $38,950, which makes it $7,700 less expensive than the Twin Motor Performance.
That’s a considerable savings and the model features a rear-mounted motor producing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS). It enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.1 seconds and travel up to 261 miles (420 km) on a single charge.
Buyers will also find LED lighting units, rain-sensing wipers, and 19-inch wheels. They’re joined by a panoramic glass roof, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, ambient lighting, and a wireless smartphone charger. Rounding out the highlights are power front seats wrapped in eco-friendly upholstery.
On the safety front, there’s a host of driver assistance systems including Adaptive Cruise Control and Traffic Jam Assist. The crossover also has a Blind Spot Information System, Front Cross Traffic Alert, and Pedestrian and Cyclist Steering Avoidance.
A Rugged New EX30 Cross Country
Also new for 2026 is the EX30 Cross Country. It starts at $48,150 and features a slightly more rugged design with additional ground clearance.
The model comes standard with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 422 hp (315 kW / 428 PS). This enables the electric crossover to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 3.5 seconds and travel up to 227 miles (365 km) on a single charge.
On top of that, the Cross Country comes nicely equipped with a heated steering wheel and heated front seats. They’re joined by extra safety features including Park Pilot Assist and a 360° camera system.
EX40 Gains A Black Edition
Last but not least, the EX40 gains a new Black Edition. It starts at $60,850 and features gloss black badging as well as black 20-inch wheels. Customers can also get an Onyx Black, Crystal White, Vapour Grey, or Denim Blue paint job.
Volvo didn’t say much else about the Black Edition, but it features Charcoal Connect Suede Textile and Microtech upholstery with contrasting white accents. Buyers will also find black flourishes as well as Dark Cutting Edge aluminum trim.
Tesla introduces new “Standard” trim levels for the Model 3 and Model Y.
Model 3 Standard starts at $36,990, while Model Y Standard at $39,990.
Autosteer, AM/FM radio are gone, while shock absorbers are downgraded.
For all of Elon Musk’s grand promises over the past couple of years about game-changing budget Teslas, the much-touted affordable models have arrived with more of a polite cough than a thunderclap.
As we expected after several leaks these past few weeks, the newcomer is essentially a heavily cost-cut version of the Model Y. Still, glance upward and you might realize that, in Tesla’s peculiar logic, less sometimes really does mean more. We’ll circle back to that soon.
Even so, Tesla slipped in a small surprise with the introduction of a lower-priced Model 3, both now bundled under the newly introduced “Standard” trim name.
Alongside these launches, Tesla has reshuffled its trim lineup. Entry-level versions now carry the Standard name, while the mid-range Long Range models have been renamed Premium. The Performance flagships of both cars remain in place at the top of the hierarchy.
Lower Prices, Leaner Package
The headline figures set the tone: the Model 3 Standard starts at $36,990, which is $5,500 less than the previous base Long Range RWD. The Model Y Standard begins at $39,990, a $5,000 reduction compared with its RWD Premium equivalent. These figures exclude delivery fees, of course.
Both models a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive setup and a smaller 69 kWh battery pack with one fewer module than usual.
Model Y Standard
Starting with the Model Y Standard, the range sits at an EPA-estimated 321 miles, a dip from the 357 miles offered by the RWD Premium. Acceleration is a lot slower too, hitting 60 mph (97 km/h) in 6.8 seconds with a rollout, versus the Premium’s 5.4-second run. Top speed remains unchanged at 125 mph.
Specs tell only half the story, though. Tesla has stripped away so much that the car now feels like something you’d leave in the economy lot after a long weekend in Vegas, drop the keys, and never think about again.
The middle section of the lightbar has vanished, which isn’t exactly a bad thing. Some might even call it an improvement, if only by accident. The front bumper has been simplified too, with revised air inlets and lighting elements now integrated into the headlamps. Around the back, the Juniper’s trademark taillights drop their connecting center strip.
Elsewhere, new smaller 18-inch wheels come as standard, with a 19-inch option available. The simplified wheel covers might not win any style awards, but the extra tire sidewall should improve ride comfort. Color choices are limited to three: Stealth Grey as standard, plus Pearl White for $1,000 and Diamond Black for $1,500.
No FM/AM Radio And Downgraded Suspension
The biggest changes are found inside. The vegan leather seats have been swapped for textile inserts, and the center console now features a large open compartment reminiscent of the Cybertruck’s utilitarian layout.
Front seat ventilation and rear seat heating have been dropped, and rear passengers lose their 8-inch fun screen in favor of manual vents. The driver also gets a manually adjustable steering wheel instead of an electric one.
Digging a little deeper into the spec sheet uncovers several more omissions. Tesla has downgraded the audio system, fitting this version with seven speakers instead of the 15-speaker setup and subwoofer found in higher trims. The FM / AM radio is gone too, along with the HEPA filter and ‘Bioweapon Defense Mode’.
Even the side mirrors are now manually folded and no longer feature auto-dimming, while Autosteer has been removed. The second-row seats, power-operated in the other trims, are now manually folded. Ambient LED lighting and the double-pane windows have also been dropped.
Interestingly, there seems to be a suspension change as well. The Standard version now uses passive shock absorbers rather than the frequency-dependent units fitted to other models.
Once again, it raises the question of what other features might have quietly slipped away.
Now You See It, Now You Don’t
Look upward and you’ll spot the most obvious alteration. The Model Y Standard trades its see-through roof for a regular headliner with sound-absorbing material above it, something many Model Y owners have long wanted, albeit in the form of a retractable shade, not a full-on cover-up.
But appearances can be deceiving. The glass roof hasn’t gone anywhere, it’s simply hiding beneath the new headliner. Apparently, Tesla figured it was more cost-effective to leave the glass in place rather than invest the time and money needed to engineer a proper metal roof, which makes sense up to a point.
What’s less clear, unless there’s something we’re missing such as a switch to a cheaper type of glass, is why they went through the extra effort and expense of covering it at all. If the goal wasn’t cost-saving, it would have made more sense to leave it visible, as with the Model 3 Standard.
The only other plausible explanation might be differentiation from the other versions, or perhaps an attempt to offset the loss of the double-pane windows and maintain cabin quietness.
Everything else you love and loathe about the Model Y experience remains as is, from the 15.4-inch touchscreen that serves as both the instrument cluster and infotainment system to the steering stalks.
Model 3 Standard
Moving to the Model 3 Standard, the EPA estimates a 321-mile range, down from the RWD Premium’s 363 miles. The sedan sprints to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds with rollout and matches the same 125 mph top speed.
Visually, the exterior updates are more restrained than on the Model Y. There wasn’t much to take away to begin with, so the main differences come from the smaller 18-inch wheels that should offer a slightly comfier ride, with 19-inch options once again available. The same trio of paint choices carries over: standard grey, optional white, and black.
Inside, the cabin sticks to the same cost-cutting playbook as the Model Y Standard, though with one notable exception: the glass roof remains. Textile seats take the place of vegan leather, the steering wheel adjusts manually, the rear touchscreen has been deleted, and the audio system has been simplified.
All the other omissions noted on the Model Y Standard, including the change in shock absorbers, carry over here too.
The all-electric Audi E5 Sportback in China starts at just under $34,000.
Low battery and energy costs in China help Audi keep prices affordable.
An equivalent Audi EV in Europe would likely cost at least twice as much.
While Audi has steadily built up its electric range, none of its current EVs have really made a breakthrough in Western markets, aside from the occasional seasonal bright spot. In China, though, the brand may have finally found its moment. The new AUDI E5 Sportback pulled in over 10,000 pre-orders within just half an hour after its debut.
A key reason for its popularity? The kind of price tag you’d expect of a Toyota, not a premium German EV.
Bargain With Big Numbers
In China, the AUDI E5 starts at just 235,900 yuan, which is the equivalent of $33,100 or €28,211 at current exchange rates. That’s a heck of a deal for a luxury car that includes a 76 kWh battery pack, a 295 hp rear motor, and has a claimed range of 384 miles (618 km) under local testing standards.
The upper trims go much further, offering up to 776 hp, while buyers also get a wraparound digital cockpit, and software tailored specifically to Chinese buyers. The interior mixes Alcantara with leather, while the tech list is stacked with features usually reserved for higher-end models.
To put that in perspective, Audi’s least expensive crossover in Germany is the Q2, a sub-compact that begins at €29,000 ($34,000 or 242,500 yuan) for the entry-level 116 hp 3-cylinder TFSI, a price that includes Germany’s value-added tax, or standard sales tax.
Unlike Audi models sold elsewhere, the E5 is exclusive to China and even carries a new badge. Instead of the traditional four rings, the grille simply reads “AUDI,” a deliberate break from tradition designed to appeal to younger, tech-oriented buyers.
Speaking to Germany’s N-TV, industry expert Ferdinand Dudenhöffer described the move as “clever positioning” and a “liberating step,” arguing that the traditional rings carried too much baggage from the past.
Why It Costs So Little
While it might be tempting to chalk up the low sticker price to cheaper wages in China, labor costs account for only around ten percent of total vehicle costs, according to the CAR Institute, N-TV reports.
A slew of other important factors come into play that help AUDI keep the E5 so affordable by Western standards. Battery costs in China are lower, energy is much cheaper, and local production operates with far greater efficiency. On top of that, Germany levies a 19 percent sales tax (VAT), while China applies just 10 percent for regular cars and in some cases zero percent for EVs, depending on price and incentives.
Perhaps most telling, though, is that manufacturers there are willing to operate with margins far slimmer than what German brands typically tolerate. That’s something we rarely, if ever, see in the West. Were a vehicle like the E5 to be produced and sold in Europe, it’d likely cost twice as much, if not more.
Storm Clouds At Home
Back in Germany, the contrast could not be starker. The industry’s struggles are well known, with Audi planning to cut around 7,500 jobs by 2029, Mercedes deep in restructuring, and Porsche rolling back its EV plans. BMW has fared a little better, yet it too has shed thousands of temporary positions.
According to a recent study by EY, Germany’s automotive industry lost more than 50,000 jobs last year, erasing roughly seven percent of its workforce. Compared with pre-COVID levels, the sector employs 112,000 fewer people today. No other domestic industry has suffered losses on this scale.
Future Written In Asia
Against this backdrop, Dudenhöffer argued that Audi’s decision to launch a separate brand in China was both brave and instructive. “Competitors BMW and Mercedes are now under pressure,” he said. “If the price difference becomes too large, customers will switch to Audi.”
He also issued a more general warning. “If the price collapse from China reaches Europe and Chinese models take over here, the Germans need a response,” he said.
“If we don’t learn to build cars that interest customers – with the right price and the right costs – Germany has a problem. We can watch China and say: We won’t get involved in this shameless price war. Or we can say: We need a China strategy.”
Dudenhöffer added that the future of the industry will not be decided in Europe but in Asia. “The vehicles must be built for the customers, not for the employees,” he cautioned. “Without a China strategy, Audi, BMW, and Mercedes are finished globally. And without a China strategy, Germany will also lose its status as an automotive nation.”
BMW replaces expired $7,500 federal EV credit with direct discount across lineup.
Offer includes 2.99% financing and up to $5,000 loyalty rewards on select EVs.
Incentives valid through October 31 for buyers using BMW Financial Services.
Federal EV tax credits may be gone, but automakers holding unsold electric models aren’t simply waiting for customers to arrive. Instead, they’re putting together their own incentives. BMW has stepped in with one of the most direct responses so far, offering a $7,500 purchase credit across its lineup, and in some ways the deal is more straightforward than the federal program ever was.
BMW says the incentive applies across its full EV lineup, from the $57,900 i4 to the $169,675 i7 M70. Unlike the now-defunct federal credit, this deal doesn’t hinge on income caps or complicated tax liability math; it’s a straight MSRP discount at the time of purchase.
More Than Just a Credit
The move makes BMW one of the first luxury brands to replace the credit in full, and it’s not stopping there. According to AutoBlog, buyers also get access to 2.99% financing for up to 60 months. Returning or “loyalty” customers can also get up to $5,000 extra, with the biggest rewards reserved for buyers of the equally big i7.
For some shoppers, that structure makes BMW’s plan more useful than the federal version ever was. The tax credit never helped customers who didn’t owe $7,500 in taxes, and it locked out high-income buyers and expensive models. BMW’s deal skips the fine print and extends the benefit to anyone financing through its system.
Following a Familiar Formula
While BMW stands out in the luxury field, it’s far from the first automaker to go down a similar road. Hyundai slashed sticker prices on the Ioniq 5 in recent days. General Motors and Ford both bought up a bunch of their own EV stock, obtained the federal EV credit before it ran out, and are passing it on to buyers.
BMW is just approaching the same problem with almost the exact same solution. These offers run through October 31 and, importantly, only apply to vehicles bought through BMW Financial Services.
Tesla’s Model Y Standard is said to drop luxury touches for only $5K off the price.
Cut features reportedly include glass roof, second-row screen, and HEPA air filter.
Redesigned fascia loses full-width LED light bar and gets a simple looking bumper.
Update II: Tesla has posted a teaser on its X channel hinting at a new reveal later this week, on October 7. The company shared two brief clips, one that appears to show a spinning wheel cover, and another featuring the front end of a new model with distinct, separated headlamps. Both the timing and, more importantly, the shape of those headlights strongly suggest it’s the budget version of the Model Y seen here.
Some have speculated that the teaser could point to the long-delayed Roadster, though that appears unlikely. The Roadster prototypes previously shown by Tesla featured different alloy wheels without covers, along with a lighting signature that doesn’t match what’s visible in this teaser.
Update I: Well, that didn’t take long. Just hours after the leaked option codes surfaced, a prototype of what looks to be the most stripped-down version of the Model Y was spotted undisguised by X user Ryan Marble near Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas.
The new photos confirm the removal of the front light bar, along with a more basic front bumper that no longer features the aero cut-outs. No doubt some diehard fans will hail it as “cleaner,” though others may just call it cheaper looking. At the back, the center light bar is gone as well, as is the spaced-out “T E S L A” badging, giving the rear fascia a plainer, less futuristic feel.
It’s still unclear from these shots whether the rumored change to the roof has gone ahead, swapping the panoramic glass panel for a solid black section. The wheels, meanwhile, seem to have shrunk to 18 inches rather than the 19-inch sets fitted to the current RWD and AWD variants. (by John Halas)
What could be our first look at Tesla’s long-rumored entry-level Model Y has surfaced online, sparking plenty of debate about whether it’s the real deal. If it is, then the newcomer appears to take a seriously pared-back approach compared to the Model Y we know today, stripped of many features that define its higher-priced counterparts.
The open question is whether such a cut-down version would help Tesla boost sales across the US and other key markets, or if it risks being seen as too compromised to win over buyers. Of course, much of the answer will hinge on pricing, especially compared with the current base Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, which starts at $44,490 in the States now that the $7,500 tax credit has disappeared.
Simpler Looks
The image comes from TheTeslaNewswire on X, which claims the shot briefly appeared on Tesla’s website before disappearing. In the photo, the the new base Model Y ditches the full-width LED light bar fitted to current crossover and instead wears a pair of narrow headlights that resemble those on the refreshed Model 3. The front bumper has been pared back too, losing its usual air curtains and settling for a plainer black grille along the lower edge.
This entry version, apparently set to carry the Model Y Standard badge, rides on 18-inch wheels with black plastic aero covers. The effect is about as minimal as Tesla has ever gone on its mainstream models.
A No-Frills Cabin
Several changes are also being reported, although official images have yet to appear. The same account that dug through the website’s source code suggests the panoramic glass roof, standard on all current Tesla passenger models, will be dropped in favor of a solid roof, with textile trim pieces added in its place.
A manually adjustable steering wheel will also be part of the package. In the back, the second-row touchscreen has been dropped, replaced with manual air vents. Tesla has removed the HEPA filter as well, a change that lines up with reports from a well-known hacker who mentioned similar cuts last month.
Extract 1:
Model Y Standard","Bring Everyone and Everything","Unparalleled Efficiency","Have More Fun","Virtually Low Maintenance","Built for Safety"],"card_description":[" ","For anybody and every drive.","Load up your friends and family with seating up to five and bring all…
An extract from Tesla’s website describing the new model was also shared on X by the same account. it says Tesla describes the model as providing “unparalleled efficiency” and having “virtually low maintenance,” which we suspect should say ‘virtually no maintenance.’ Tesla also notes that it doesn’t require “oil changes, tunes ups or smoke checks,” and that all owners will need to do is “refill the washer fluid and rotate your tires.”
When Cheap Isn’t That Cheap
Then there’s the all-important price. Apparently, the Model Y Standard will start at a claimed $39,990 in the United States. That’s only $5,000 less than the current base Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, which doesn’t sound like a good deal, particularly given all the features the Standard version is lacking. Even more so if you consider that just days ago, before the federal EV tax credit was scrapped, buyers could pick up the Long Range RWD for as little as $37,490.
🔥🔥 More affordable Tesla Model Y Standard leaked on the website!
✅ Called Model Y Standard ✅ $39,990 starting price ✅ Redesigned front fascia ✅ Single-part headlights ✅ Front bumper camera ✅ No front light bar ✅ No glass roof (“closed glass roof”) ✅ New 18” Aperture… pic.twitter.com/eGm4QnMxJm
Hyundai has lowered pricing on the Ioniq 5 by up to $9,800.
The EV now starts at $35,000, which is down from $42,600.
Despite being cheaper, it also gains a dual-level charging cable.
The clean vehicle tax credit expired yesterday and Hyundai isn’t wasting any time as they’ve lowered Ioniq 5 pricing by an average of $9,155. That’s a huge drop and the entry-level model now begins at $35,000, which is $7,600 less than last year’s model.
Buyers looking for more power and range can upgrade to the Ioniq 5 SE, which begins at $37,500. That’s down $9,150 from last year’s starting price of $46,650.
The biggest decline can be found on the well-equipped SEL trims, which cost $39,800 with rear-wheel drive and $43,300 with all-wheel drive. Both variants are a staggering $9,800 less than their predecessors.
Hyundai said they’re repositioning the model to “better align with current market dynamics and support increased U.S. production volume.” They added the changes come as “part of a broader strategy to maintain the Ioniq brand’s leadership in the electric vehicle space while responding to shifting consumer expectations and competitive pressures.”
Despite the significant price cuts, Hyundai appears to have avoided removing equipment to lower costs. In fact, they added a dual-level charging cable.
Additional changes are limited, but there’s a new Sage Silver Matte paint job. Cosmic Blue Pearl and Vibrant Ultimate Red have also been extended to all trims.
While Hyundai didn’t mention the tax credit, they’re offering a $7,500 incentive for customers who purchase or lease a 2025 model. However, you might be better off waiting for the 2026 Ioniq 5, unless there are some serious discounts on top of that.
Tesla’s Model Y Performance is now live on the configurator, priced at $57,490.
The all-wheel drive hero model has a 308-mile range and a 155 mph top speed.
Company has also increased lease prices following govt’s axing of EV tax credits.
Tesla’s facelift of the Model Y SUV hasn’t proved enough to halt a decline in sales, but from this week, there’s a fresh reason to give the automaker’s showrooms some of your time. The range-topping Model Y Performance is officially on sale in the US, and at just $57,490, it looks like a seriously good value for what it puts on the table.
If you’d rather lease the flagship Model Y Performance, Tesla’s current terms start with a $4,300 down payment and $635 per month for 36 months with a 10,000-mile annual limit. Opting for a shorter 24-month lease bumps the payment to $745 per month. The down payment is flexible, however, and can drop as low as $1,427 depending on how you structure the deal.
For that money, you get a bi-motor, all-wheel drive, five-seat SUV that can explode from zero to 60 mph (97 kmh) in just 3.3 seconds, tops out at 155 mph (250 kmh), and has a 308-mile (496 km) range. That compares with 4.6 seconds, 125 mph (201 kmh), and 327 miles (526 km) for the next Model Y down, the $48,990 Long Range All-Wheel Drive.
If you don’t care about the more explosive performance and a selection of other goodies like the body-hugging front sport seats and the improved suspension with adaptive damping that promises to offer a better handling and ride, you’re better off pocketing the $8,500 difference and opting for the Long Range AWD instead.
Options? What Options
Tesla doesn’t offer many options for the Performance, giving buyers the choice of six colors at no extra cost and no alternative wheel selections other than the standard 21-inch Arachnid 2.0 rims. The only really pricey available add-on is the over-promising Full Self-Driving package for $8,000, though buyers can inflate their bill with stuff like a roof rack and air mattress.
We already knew some of the Performance tech details, plus how much it cost in Europe, but until now, US prices remained an unknown quantity. At $57.5k, the Performance massively undercuts Hyundai’s Ioniq 5N, which costs $66,200, but not Ford’s Mustang Mach-E in GT trim. One of those is only $54,495, but it is also half a second slower to 60 mph and has a poor 280-mile range. Then again, the 5N, which does match the Y against the clock, is rated at a pathetic 221 miles (356 km).
Though various states, such as Colorado, offer EV incentives that can bring the price of a Performance lower, the federal EV tax credit program finished at the end of September, having been axed by President Trump. That means no opportunity for a chunky $7,500 discount. And it also means leasing a Tesla just got more expensive.
Lease Prices Jump
Although Tesla so far hasn’t changed the MSRPs of its other cars, it did raise leasing prices when the tax credit availability expired, Reuters reports. Lease deals for the Model Y RWD and AWD jumped from a range of $479-$529 to $529-$599 a month. Meanwhile, Model 3 lease prices, including the Performance, jumped from a range of $349 to $699 to $429 to $759 per month.
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.
Subaru has announced pricing for the 2026 Solterra will start at $38,495.
That’s the same as its predecessor, but the EV lands as the tax credit expires.
Up to 288 miles of range and new 338 hp XT trim headline the updates.
Subaru introduced the partically redesigned Solterra earlier this year, and now the company has announced pricing will start at $38,495. That’s the same as its predecessor, despite boasting more than a 25 percent increase in range.
Kicking things off is the entry-level Solterra Premium, which has a face worthy of the witness protection program. While it’s bland and generic, the model features an illuminated logo that is flanked by new headlights. Buyers will also find rain-sensing wipers, a power liftgate, and restyled 18-inch alloy wheels.
The interior eschews odd design touches and now features a freestanding 7-inch digital instrument cluster and an all-new 14-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by a new dashboard and a revamped center console, which sports a dual 15 watt wireless smartphone charger.
Elsewhere, there’s a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated StarTex front seats with 10-way power adjustment on the driver’s side. The crossover also has ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with Homelink.
Speaking of equipment, the model has Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Hands-Free Low Speed Driving, and Emergency Steering Assist. They’re joined by Front Cross-Traffic Alert, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure Alert, Emergency Stop Assist, a Blind Spot Monitor, and Collision Avoidance Assist with Automatic Steering.
Power comes from a new 74.7 kWh battery pack, which delivers 288 miles (463 km) of range. It’s paired to an upgraded dual motor all-wheel drive system developing 233 hp (174 kW / 236 PS). Other notable highlights include an uprated 11 kW onboard charger and a new North American Charging Standard (NACS) port.
A Cheaper Limited Trim
Moving up the trim ladder is the Solterra Limited, which starts at $41,395. That’s $600 less than last year’s model and it’s distinguished by larger 20-inch wheels as well as power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signals. Buyers will also find a dual rear spoiler and a power liftgate with a kick sensor.
The upgrades extend to the cabin, which has been equipped with a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats. They’re joined by a Harman Kardon premium audio system, a power passenger seat, a 120V rear power outlet, parking assist, and a Panoramic View Monitor.
The powertrain carries over, but the range drops to 278 miles (447 km). However, you can upgrade to the Limited XT for $42,895. This is a no-brainer as it features an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 338 hp (252 kW / 343 PS). It enables the model to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in less than five seconds and Subaru says the range is unchanged at 278 miles (447 km).
A Range-Topping Touring XT
Last but not least is the range-topping Solterra Touring XT, which begins at $45,555. It focuses on luxury as buyers will find heated and ventilated fronts seats with radiant leg warmers. The model also sports a digital rearview mirror, a panoramic moonroof, LED footwell lighting, and a retractable cargo cover.
The 2026 Solterra will arrive at dealerships this fall and customers who buy or lease the EV will receive access to a Subaru rental vehicle for up to 10 days. This means if you have a long trip, you can leave the EV at home and not have to worry about charging.
California’s governor says the state can’t afford to replace federal tax credits.
The program of offering up to $7,500 of credits against an EV ends this month.
President Biden introduced the scheme, but Pres. Trump cancelled it this year.
No state buys more electric vehicles than California, but some drivers might now think twice after Governor Gavin Newsom confirmed he won’t offer financial incentives to replace the soon-to-disappear tax credits program.
President Trump’s decision to axe the previous Biden administration’s $7,500 of tax credits against an EV purchase means the nationwide subsidies will cease at the end of this month. Some Californians, clean air campaigners, and several automakers had hoped Newsom would step in to offer state aid to replace the federal incentives, something he himself had previously pledged. But last week, he told reporters it was unaffordable.
No Safety Net from Sacramento
“We can’t make up for the federal vandalism of those tax credits [by the Trump administration],” Newsom said at a press conference when asked what he was planning to do about replacing the expiring credits.
“But we can continue to make the unprecedented investments in infrastructure,” he continued, highlighting that the state now has over 200,000 public chargers compared with only 120,000 gas pump nozzles.
Newsom claimed in 2024 that he would step in to replace the federal EV aid if it was ever eliminated, but following through on that promise has proved impossible due to California’s growing budget deficit. An earlier state subsidy program ended there in 2023, though after Newsom’s latest speech, his office reportedly said it could be reintroduced next year, potentially by using cash generated by California’s carbon-trading scheme.
A Broader Fight Over Clean Air
In addition to railing against Trump’s work to sabotage California’s nearly 60-year fight to clean up automobile pollution, Newsom slammed GM and other automakers. He accused them of being complicit in the push to block California’s ban on the sale of new gasoline-powered vehicles set to take effect in 2035.
“GM sold us out, Mary Barra sold us out,” he said, tying the dispute over incentives to a larger battle about California’s right to set environmental standards.
Meanwhile, EV sales have heated up in recent weeks as automakers and buyers rush to take advantage of the closing tax credit window. Hyundai recorded a 72 percent rise in US sales of electric cars last month compared with August 2024.
The China-only Audi E5 Sportback starts at 235,900 yuan or around $33,000.
Range spans 384 to 402 miles depending on trim and battery configuration.
Power output ranges from 295 hp to 776 hp with RWD or AWD drivetrains.
Not too long ago, Audi made the decision to launch a stand-alone EV brand in China under the name AUDI, written in all caps. While it seemed like a questionable move at the time, it appears to be paying off, judging by the demand for its first model, the new E5 Sportback.
According to the company, when pre-orders for the E5 opened on August 18, more than 10,000 reservations rolled in within half an hour. Those kinds of numbers are common for Chinese startups, but not for long-established manufacturers. Just as important as the tally itself is the message it sends: there’s no better way to create FOMO than to show how many people have already locked in an order for this EV, complete with some German heritage.
Of course, the figures themselves don’t carry much weight, since they’re not binding or backed by non-refundable deposits. It’s possible that a fair share of those who placed early reservations for the E5 could cancel before the car actually reaches their driveway.
With that being said, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise as to why the E5 has proven to be popular. As we confirmed last month, the entry-level Pioneer version starts at just 235,900 yuan or around $33,100. For the money, shoppers get a 76 kWh battery pack, a 295 hp rear motor, and a claimed range of 384 miles (618 km).
Other models include the 402 hp, rear-wheel drive Pioneer Plus with a 100 kWh battery and starting at 269,900 yuan ($38,000) and the Pioneer Plus with an 83 kWh pack and dual motors delivering 518 hp, priced from the same 269,900 yuan ($38,000). The range is then topped out by the Flagship Quattro with a 100 kWh battery, 402 miles (647 km) of range, and dual motors with 776 hp. It starts at just 319,900 yuan ($45,000).
The cabin of the AUDI E5 Sportback is unlike any Audi model sold in the West, and instead far more similar to other EVs in China. It includes a 59-inch screen stretching across the entire dashboard, digital wing mirrors, soft-touch leather and Alcantara, and wireless phone chargers.
Polestar 5 has made its world premiere at the Munich Motor Show.
Performance-focused EV has up to 872 hp and 749 lb-ft of torque.
It is currently available to order with UK pricing starting at £89,500.
Update: The Polestar 5 has officially hit the stage in Munich, and we’ve added live photos from its world premiere.
Polestar unveiled the Precept concept over five years ago and it’s finally morphed into a production vehicle. While the car is roughly a year behind schedule, the Polestar 5 looks fantastic and is ready to tackle the Porsche Taycan.
Photos Stefan Baldauf & Guido ten Brink
Billed as a four-door performance grand tourer, the car follows in the footsteps of the original concept and features dual blade headlights with Pixel LED technology. They’re joined by taut bodywork, retractable door handles, and frameless windows.
Buyers will also find 20- to 22-inch wheels as well as a rakish windscreen that flows into a long, sloping roof. The latter ends at a Kamm-style tail, but the car is more notable for eschewing a rear window.
An Elegant And Minimalist Interior
Photos Stefan Baldauf & Guido ten Brink
The interior is minimalist and high-tech as owners will find a 9-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9.5-inch head-up display, and a 14.5-inch infotainment system with a portrait orientation. The latter runs a Polestar-specific version of Android Automotive and features Google integration.
The front seats were designed in collaboration with Recaro and can be wrapped in MicroTech or Bridge of Weir Nappa leather upholstery. They also offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions.
Polestar says the car was designed primarily as a four-seater and the rear center armrest folds down to reveal controls for the four-zone climate control system as well as the heated, ventilated, and massaging rear seats. The seats also recline and the company noted passengers will find a “foot garage behind the front seats,” which “gives occupants extra foot space and a more natural seating position.”
Elsewhere, there’s a digital rearview mirror, Econyl carpeting, and flax-based trim instead of carbon fiber. A ten-speaker audio system is standard, while a 21-speaker Bowers & Wilkins setup is optional. Buyers will also find a massive panoramic glass roof that measures over six feet long.
If you’re more concerned about cargo, the 5 offers 12.9 cubic feet (365 liters) of rear luggage space. There’s also a frunk that provides 2.2 cubic feet (62 liters) of room.
A Bespoke Platform And Powerful Motors
The 5 rides on a bespoke hot-cured bonded aluminum platform, which is known as the Polestar Performance Architecture. The model also sports a Brembo braking system as well as 11 exterior cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and one mid-range radar. These enable a host of driver assistance systems including available Pilot Assist.
Power comes from a 112 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 738 hp (550 kW / 748 PS) and 599 lb-ft (812 Nm) of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 3.9 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). Drivers can also expect a WLTP range of up to 416 miles (670 km).
When the battery is low, owners will be thankful for a DC fast charging capability of 350 kW. It takes the battery from 10-80% in as little as 22 minutes. At home, the AC charging capacity tops out at 19 kW. Speaking of charging, there’s an indicator on the C-pillar, which tells you the battery status at a glance.
Customers can also get a Performance variant, which features an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 872 hp (650 kW / 884 PS) and 749 lb-ft (1,015 Nm) of torque. This lowers the 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) time to 3.2 seconds, but the range also drops to 351 miles (565 km).
Besides being more powerful, the Polestar 5 Performance has a sportier suspension with adaptive dampers that can react to road conditions within three milliseconds. Buyers will also find gloss black accents as well as Swedish Gold brake calipers, seat belts, and valve caps.
Now Available To Order
The Polestar 5 is currently available to order and German pricing starts at €119,900 for the entry-level model and €142,900 for the Performance variant. In the UK, pricing starts at £89,500 and £104,900.
The initial launch will be focused on 24 markets, but North America isn’t included. While that’s unfortunate, the company said pricing and availability for Canada and the United States will be announced at a later date.
The Fisker Ocean One has plenty of power and a claimed range of 360 miles.
Unfortunately, the selling dealer notes that any buyer will be on the hook for repairs.
Newport Fisker in California is trying to part ways with well over a dozen Oceans.
Buying an electric vehicle from a carmaker that’s already gone under sounds like the kind of gamble best left to thrill-seekers, yet we suspect that the Fisker Ocean has become so absurdly cheap that plenty of buyers will probably talk themselves into rolling the dice.
In late July, we discovered that Newport Fisker in Costa Mesa, California, was attempting to offload no less than 24 used Ocean, all of which had been heavily discounted to between $22,990 and $27,990. Fast forward to September, and the prices of many of these models have been slashed even further, with no less than four examples now available for just $17,990.
Bargain Pricing With Caveats
The blue Fisker Ocean you see here is one of them. While it officially has a sticker price of $21,990, that falls to $17,990 for those who are eligible to receive the used EV federal tax credit before the Trump administration ditches it at the end of September. This means it’s possible to buy a low-mileage electric SUV for roughly the same price as a new Nissan Versa.
This ultra-affordable Ocean has been driven just 9,200 miles and includes a tow hitch, a Level 2 home charger, and all-weather floor mats. There’s no word on whether the EV has received all of the recall repairs that Fisker has issued.
In terms of performance, it undeniably represents great value for money at under $20,000. This 2023 model is an Ocean One, meaning it has twin electric motors combining to deliver 564 hp, allowing it to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in less than 4 seconds. It also features a large 106 kWh battery pack that gives it up to 360 miles (580 km) of range.
What if Something Goes Wrong?
If the deal sounds to good to be true and you wonder where the catch is, this could be the fact that the dealer notes that “should the vehicle prove defective following their purchase, the buyer and not the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer assumes the entire cost of all necessary servicing and repairs.”
In other words, once the Fisker’s keys are yours, so are the risks. If something goes wrong, you’re responsible for footing the bill to get if fixed.
So, would you take the plunge on a bargain-bin EV from a company that no longer exists, or does the thought of hunting down parts for a ghost-brand SUV make you run for the hills?
For the 2026 model year, prices for the model will fall from $64,995 to $59,995.
The price reduction means the Scat Pack will be just $2,000 more than the base R/T.
Unfortunately, the Charger Daytona is no longer eligible for a $7,500 leasing incentive.
It’s standard practice among car manufacturers to increase, to some degree or another, the prices of their vehicles with each passing year. However, Dodge is doing something different for the 2026 Charger Daytona, and it doesn’t paint a pretty picture for a model that was supposed to usher in an exciting new era of all-electric muscle cars.
Dodge initially launched the Charger Daytona in R/T and Scat Pack guises. However, after realizing that no one actually wanted to buy a Charger without a V6 or a V8, it ditched the R/T, leaving the $64,995 Scat Pack as the only electric version of the new-age Charger available. It has now been revealed that its price will be slashed to $59,995 for the 2026 model year, which amounts to an 8.3 percent price reduction.
The price cut means the Scat Pack will soon be just $2,000 pricier than the discontinued R/T, which used to start at $57,995. This comes despite the fact that the Scat Pack delivers an impressive 670 hp, whereas the R/T was capped at “just” 496 hp.
CarsDirect uncovered pricing details for the 2026 Charger Daytona Scat Pack through an official order guide. It made no mention of any major equipment changes for the 2026 model, so it should be largely identical to the current car.
No Tax Credit
Sadly, the price cut will not completely offset President Donald Trump’s return to the White House. Although the Scat Pack had not been eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit when purchased, the rebate was available when leased. This will no longer be the case after the Trump administration axed the long-standing EV incentive program.
In addition, the Scat Pack remains pricier than the recently announced Charger Sixpack. Dodge recently announced that the twin-turbocharged, 3.0-liter inline-six version will start at $54,995. For traditional muscle car enthusiasts, it will likely remain the obvious choice, but given that it is capped at 550 hp, shoppers seeking the ultimate in performance regardless of powertrain would be wise to look closely at the Daytona Scat Pack.
The 2026 Nissan Leaf starts under $30,000 in the US but costs more in Canada.
Cold-climate features included as standard equipment it more expensive.
Despite higher pricing, the Leaf remains one of Canada’s most affordable EVs.
Shoppers weighing the cost of going electric may notice a curious difference between the US and Canadian markets. Nissan has confirmed US pricing for the new Leaf, which still holds its spot among the most affordable EVs available at just under US$30,000. North of the border, however, the same car carries a steeper price tag, leaving dealers, executives, and analysts to explain the gap.
The automaker has not yet shared pricing for the base Leaf S in Canada, so comparisons focus on higher trims. At current exchange rates, the S+ comes in about US$2,600 higher in Canada, the SV+ is roughly US$500 more, while the range-topping Platinum+ is actually US$800 less expensive than in the US.
When we compare the 2026 MY to the original Leaf from the 2011 MY, without accounting for inflation, the starting price in the US market is actually lower today (US$ 29,990 versus 32,780), something that was mentioned as a notable achievement by Nissan. However, in Canada the model has gotten more expensive than its grandfather (CA$ 44,998 versus 38,395). So what explains the difference between the two markets?
So what explains the diverging trends? Nissan Canada spokesman Didier Marsaud told Auto News: “Vehicle pricing is determined by a number of factors, including vehicle specifications, market competitiveness, and more, hence why Canadian and U.S. pricing may not be exactly the same.”
Extra Features for Cold Climates
One major factor is equipment. The Canadian-spec Leaf S+ includes heated front seats, heated mirrors, a heat pump, a battery heater, and LED turn signals as standard features, none of which are included on the equivalent US model. These additions are practical for colder regions and arguably add value for Canadian buyers.
Robert Karwel, analyst at J.D. Power Canada, echoed this point. He noted that differences in packaging and market dynamics often lead to Canadian models being less stripped-down than their US counterparts. “This is not an uncommon position to take in Canada, where models are more likely to be equipped not as strict ‘price leaders’ but in a way that reflects what most Canadians will actually buy.”
Despite the higher sticker price, Karwel pointed out that the Leaf still lands as one of the most affordable EVs “at transaction price” in Canada. Its cost undercuts several direct competitors, including the Chevy Equinox EV at CA$48,433, the Kia Niro EV at CA$48,620, and the Hyundai Kona Electric at CA$49,279.
Steve Chipman, CEO of Birchwood Automotive Group, which operates 24 dealerships across Canada, acknowledged that cross-border TV ads showing US prices might cause confusion. Still, he hopes buyers recognize the realities of regional pricing. “This is Canada and this is the pricing,” he said.
The base version features a 76 kWh battery and rear motor producing 295 hp (220 kW).
AUDI’s most range-focused model has a 100 kWh pack and 480 miles (773 km) of range.
Sitting at the top of the range is the Flagship Quattro dual-motor version with 776 hp.
A few months after Audi unveiled the all-electric E5 Sportback in China under its new all-caps AUDI brand, pricing for the model has now been confirmed. As is often the case with new EVs in China, the E5 arrives at surprisingly low prices, even by the country’s competitive market standards.
The pitch is simple: blend German engineering and build quality with the advanced tech features that Chinese automakers have made their trademark.
Four different versions of the E5 will be offered: the Pioneer, Pioneer Plus, Pioneer Quattro, and Flagship Quattro. Prices for the base Pioneer started at 235,900 yuan or $32,800. This version comes with a rear-mounted electric motor delivering 295 hp (220 kW) and is equipped with a 76 kWh battery pack. It has a claimed range of 384 miles (618 km) on the CLTC cycle.
Sitting above this model is the Pioneer Plus. It retains the rear-wheel drive layout, but power has been increased to 402 hp (300 kW). It also comes standard with a larger 100 kWh battery pack, bumping up the price to 269,900 yuan ($37,500), and growing the range to 480 miles (773 km).
Starting at the same price is the Pioneer Quattro. It has a smaller 83 kWh pack, but dual motors, delivering a combined 518 hp (386 kW) and covering 387 miles (623 km) on a charge.
The Flagship Quattro model is priced from 319,900 yuan ($44,500), which is still very reasonable. It has a 100 kWh battery, 402 miles (647 km) of range, and pumps out an impressive 776 hp (579 kw). That’s good enough to send it to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.4 seconds.
All AUDI E5 Sportback models come standard with a LiDAR, three millimeter-wave radars, 11 cameras, and 12 ultrasonic radars for an advanced driver-assistance system.
Dominating the interior of the new EV is a huge 59-inch screen that stretches the entire width of the dashboard and includes displays for the digital wing mirrors. For an Audi, the cabin is quite minimalist, bathed in soft-touch leather and Alcantara, and complete with two wireless phone charges.
Deliveries of the E5 Sportback are scheduled to begin next month. For now, the model remains exclusive to China, though its combination of price, power, and technology could make it an appealing export candidate if demand proves strong.
Nissan reveals 2026 Leaf S pricing at $25,360, undercutting S+ by $4,630.
Leaf S will be America’s most affordable EV when it arrives in spring 2026.
All Leaf trims except the S feature a 75 kWh battery paired with 215 hp.
Update: Just weeks after Nissan shared pricing for the 2026 Leaf minus the entry-level version, we now have that missing detail. According to order guide data obtained by CarsDirect, the base 2026 Leaf S will start at just over $25,000 before incentives. The figure does not include the soon-to-be-discontinued $7,500 federal tax credit, but with the model not arriving until next year, it won’t be eligible for that incentive anyway.
The Lowest-Cost EV in America
Priced at $25,360, the Leaf S undercuts the next trim, the S+, by $4,630, and even the previous generation S by $2,780. More significantly, it earns the distinction of being the most affordable EV in the United States, a title it will likely hold for some time.
The only real threats come from GM’s upcoming Chevrolet Bolt or a supposed entry-level Tesla, though the latter rests on the unlikely event of Elon Musk actually producing the $25,000 EV he has (or had) been dangling since 2018. That promise has been recycled so many times it now feels more like a meme than a product plan. In fact, even Musk has since backpedaled on it admitting last year, “having a regular, $25K model is pointless. It’d be silly”.
Specifications for the base Leaf have yet to be detailed, but range will likely fall short of the 288 to 303 miles offered by the S+, SV+, and Platinum+ versions. The S is equipped with a 52 kWh battery and a 130 kW motor producing 174 horsepower.
Arrival Timing
As for when the base Leaf S will reach US showrooms, Nissan has only said it will arrive in spring 2026. That schedule places its launch several months after the other trims, which are slated to go on sale in the coming weeks. Original story continues below.
Pricing for the next-generation Nissan Leaf is finally official, giving us a picture of how the popular EV is shaping up for 2026. The new model not only undercuts the equivalent trims of its predecessor, it also positions itself as one of the most affordable electric vehicles currently available in the US.
According to the automaker, the Leaf now holds the lowest starting MSRP of any EV on sale in the country. To put things in perspective, here’s how the 2026 model year compares with the outgoing 2025 version.
2026 NISSAN LEAF MSRP
Trim
2026 MY
2025 MY
LEAF S
$25,360
$28,140
LEAF S+
$29,990
–
LEAF SV+
$34,230
$36,190
LEAF PLATINUM+
$38,990
–
SWIPE
Nissan managed to keep the S+ trim just under the psychological $30,000 mark, no small feat given today’s inflationary climate. It is reasonable to expect the upcoming S trim to come in even lower, strengthening the Leaf’s appeal as a budget-friendly EV.
For now, the only direct comparison between generations can be made with the SV+. The new version starts at $34,230, nearly $2,000 less than the 2025 model, despite offering more range and a richer list of standard features.
Nissan
Two Powertrain Options
The S+, SV+, and Platinum+ trims share the larger 75 kWh battery, delivering up to 303 miles (488 km) of EPA-estimated range. These versions are paired with a more powerful motor producing 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS). The base S trim uses a 52 kWh pack and a 174 hp (130 kW / 177 PS) motor, still an upgrade over the outgoing entry-level setup.
On the charging front, every US-market Leaf now includes a NACS port for Tesla Supercharger access and supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.
Sleeker Design and Updated Cabin
The Leaf’s redesign moves the model into fastback crossover territory, with a 173.4-inch (4,404 mm) body that cuts a more aerodynamic profile than the hatchbacks it replaces. LED lighting is standard across the board, while the Platinum+ gains exclusive taillights inspired by the Nissan Z. Wheel options range from steel 18-inchers with aero covers on the S and S+, to 18-inch alloys on the SV+, and 19-inch alloys on the Platinum+.
Nissan claims that the cabin is roomier than before, helped by a flat floor and newly designed seats. Up front, every trim comes with a digital cockpit: the S and S+ feature dual 12.3-inch displays, while the SV+ and Platinum+ step up to larger 14.3-inch screens.
At the top of the range, the Platinum+ sets itself apart with a panoramic roof that can shift from transparent to opaque at the touch of a button. It also adds a head-up display, multi-color ambient lighting, a motion-activated power liftgate, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system. A full suite of driver-assistance features is included across the entire lineup.
Deliveries of the 2026 Nissan Leaf in the US are slated for fall 2025, with launches also planned in Japan, Europe, and Australia.
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