For the first time in nearly twenty years, the CEOs of Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis may once again share a table before Congress. The Senate Commerce Committee has called on Ford’s Jim Farley, GM’s Mary Barra, and Stellantis’ Antonio Filosa to testify on January 14 in a high-profile hearing exploring the auto industry’s outlook on federal transportation policy and vehicle affordability.

The session will also delve into the uneasy transition toward electrification, a subject that continues to divide policymakers and automakers alike. Tesla’s VP of Vehicle Engineering, Lars Moravy, has been invited to join the discussion, adding an electric perspective to the mix.

More: Lawmakers Demand Answers From Hertz On AI Rental Damages System

The last time all three Detroit bosses appeared together on Capitol Hill was late 2008 during the financial crisis, bailout negotiations, and a moment when the industry’s future looked genuinely uncertain. This time, the pressure points are different but no less significant.

Why Bring Them Together Now?

Senator Ted Cruz, who’s spearheading the hearing, has titled it “Pedal to the Policy: The Views of the American Auto Industry on the Upcoming Surface Transportation Reauthorization.”

Based on reporting from the Union-Bulletin, the sessions will probe fuel economy and emissions mandates, tariffs, federal EV policy, new-vehicle pricing, and how automakers plan to navigate the next decade. Cruz frames the meeting as a long-overdue reality check on affordability.

“The average price of a car has more than doubled in the past decade,” said Cruz, blaming “onerous government-mandated technologies and radical environmental regulations.”

What’s Driving Up Costs?

No doubt, the average transaction price (ATP) of a new car is quite high these days. Data from Cox Automotive shows that it surpassed $50,000 in September.

A decade ago, that figure was in the low $30,000s. Notably, analysts think the shift is due to several factors, including, but not limited to, regulation. Inflation, tariffs, higher-end trims, and the introduction of more EVs all have a part to play.

Also: EVs Now Sell Faster Than Gas Cars In The Used Market

Republicans say policy changes earlier this year, including repealing federal EV mandates and CAFE targets under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, are steps toward lowering prices. However, Cruz argues lawmakers need to go further. This is all happening at a critical point in the U.S. automotive industry too.

The debate comes at a pivotal moment for the U.S. auto sector. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) faces renewal or renegotiation by July 1. If it lapses, the fallout alone could drive vehicle costs higher, regardless of any new legislation.

Source: Union-Bulletin

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

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

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

Between Avenger and Compass

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Design Direction

Jeep Renegade concept study created by independent designer Marco Maltese

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

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

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

Updated Foundations and Powertrain

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

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

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

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

Pricing and Competition

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

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

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

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

Source: Auto Express

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

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

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

More: Stellantis Wants To Rebrand Chinese EVs For Europe

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

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

New Platform And Modern Tech

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

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

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

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

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

Who It’s Up Against?

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

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

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

Joint Venture And Growth

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

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

If you thought Peugeot planned to just tweak its designs for the next chapter, think again. The French brand has dropped a single teaser image of its new “Polygon” concept, a strong preview not just of the coming generation of its big-selling 208, but of an entire reinvention of its design language.

Related: Hypersquare Steering On Road Cars By 2026, Peugeot CEO Says

There’s no half-measure here. Peugeot’s current lineup of cars and SUVs is already distinctive, but the company’s designers seem to have no qualms about moving on with an even more futuristic theme.

Hints of the Past, Vision of the Future

However, you can still see echoes of the classic 205 in the triangular-shaped B-pillar and its pill-shaped badges. That’s about where the retro cues end, though.

The Polygon’s long, near-horizontal windshield looks like the kind of thing you’d expect to see on a mid-engined exotic, not a humble subcompact, and the wheels are pushed so far out you can almost feel the tension in the doorskin, which is pinched to exaggerate a lean, muscular look.

The grille-less nose tells us this is an EV and could be carried over to production mostly intact, though we doubt the partially-glazed roof will manage the same kind of transition.

Steer-by-Wire Takes Center Stage

One aspect that definitely will, though, is the steer-by-wire system, which Peugeot says is “central to the driving pleasure of future Peugeot vehicles and the Polygon concept itself.”

The high-tech steering system – Lexus uses something similar on the RZ – gets a suitably futuristic new steering wheel, that we can’t really see on this teaser image, but were introduced to on a previous Peugeot concept in 2023.

Called Hypersquare (though actually rectangular), the wheel has four holes, a design echoed in the four road wheels.

Shared DNA Across Stellantis Brands

Like its Stellantis cousin, the next Vauxhall/Opel Corsa, which was previewed in August by the 789 hp (800 PS / 588 kW) GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept, the production 208 is expected to ride on the new STLA Small platform when its unveiled late in 2026.

We’ll have to wait for the full Polygon reveal next week to get our hands on any tech spec, but don’t be surprised if it’s packing the same 82 kWh battery the GSE promised, something that would represent a big step up over the 52 kWh pack in the current e-208.

Peugeot’s 2023 Inception concept teased the Hypersquare steering wheel

Maserati might be battling with slow sales, but they’re not giving up on their most popular SUV, the Grecale. The Trident brand has rolled out a series of updates for the 2026 model year, with most of the attention on the fully electric Folgore trim, which can now travel farther between charges.

The Grecale Folgore was launched in 2023 with dual electric motors producing 550 hp (410 kW / 557 PS) and a 105 kWh battery offering 500 km (311 miles) of WLTP range.

What’s New?

While the electric powertrain’s core specifications remain unchanged for 2026, Maserati has introduced a new AWD-Disconnect system said to boost range to 580 km (360 miles).

More: Maserati Can’t Sell The Grecale In Numbers So It’s Selling Them One By One

Their solution is simple: when AWD is not required, the system sends power to the rear wheels only, bringing a significant reduction in energy consumption that results in an extra 80 km (50 miles) of zero-emission range.

The shift happens automatically in just 500 milliseconds and physically disengages the front axle shafts from the hubs. Maserati says this method is more efficient than disconnecting at the motor or differential.

Algorithms To The Rescure

To determine when AWD should engage or disengage, the vehicle relies on a network of sensors and algorithms that continuously monitor several variables.

Depending on torque demand, brake temperature, road gradient, instantaneous speed and acceleration, selected driving mode, outside temperature, and activation of vehicle dynamic control systems, the system makes sure drivers get the performance they need from the electric SUV.

The Folgore accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.1 seconds, making it the second quickest Grecale behind the V6-powered Trofeo that completes the same sprint in 3.8 seconds. The EV, however, has the lowest top speed in the lineup, capped at 220 km/h (137 mph).

More: Maserati’s $50,000 Discounts Reveal How Bad Things Really Are

The electric Grecale retains its remote climate control, automatic battery preconditioning, and EV Routing functions. The latter now includes a Dynamic Range Mapping feature that visually displays how far the car can travel on its remaining charge within the built-in navigation system.

More Customization Options

Alongside the Folgore’s efficiency upgrades, Maserati has expanded personalization options across the entire 2026 Grecale range.

The exterior palette now includes 11 colors, plus 32 additional shades from the Fuoriserie Programme, six of which are new. Inside, buyers can choose from eight interior hues, eight seat designs, four brake caliper finishes, and six alloy wheel patterns, including a set exclusive to the Folgore.

Maserati has yet to confirm pricing for the 2026 Grecale lineup, though given how its sales have been going, it’s probably safe to assume the figures won’t stray far from last year’s. After all, it’s hard to raise prices when the cars aren’t exactly flying off the lot.

Chinese automakers are no longer content with regional dominance, as they’re eyeing the world stage. And if you ask Carlos Tavares, the former head of Stellantis, they might actually pull it off.

The outspoken executive believes Chinese manufacturers could end up rescuing Europe’s car industry from its slow decline. Names like BYD and Geely, he says, may not just survive the global shake-up but emerge as the last few standing.

Read: The Guy Who Broke Stellantis Now Thinks It Might Break Up

Since stepping down from Stellantis nearly a year ago, Tavares has spent his time writing a memoir and touring the press circuit to promote it, offering a steady stream of predictions about where the auto industry is headed.

Will China Save Europe’s Factories?

He’s claimed that Stellantis itself might split apart and even floated the idea that Tesla could exit the car business entirely. Now he’s suggesting that within the next 10 to 15 years, Chinese brands could step in to save Europe’s automotive sector, though not without cost.

“There are lots of nice windows being opened up for the Chinese,” he told The Financial Times. “The day a western carmaker is in severe difficulty, with factories on the verge of closing and demonstrations in the street, a Chinese carmaker will come and say ‘I’ll take it and keep the jobs’, and they’ll be considered saviors.”

Tavares has experience dealing with Chinese car firms. He orchestrated Stellantis buying a 20 percent share of Leapmotor to help launch it into international markets. He also acknowledges that Leapmotor likely entered the deal because “they want to swallow us [Stellantis] some day.”

Trouble in Europe’s Auto Core

The former Stellantis boss hasn’t softened his criticism of Europe’s automotive policy. He argues that the European Union’s ban on new internal combustion cars by 2035 has forced local automakers into massive, and potentially wasted, investment.

According to Tavares, European car companies have poured more than €100 billion into electrification since the rule was introduced. He now predicts the EU will backtrack on the plan entirely.

More: Carlos Tavares Thinks Tesla Might Not Exist In 10 Years

“Who is holding the EU to account for the €100bn of investments that won’t be used? No one,” he said.

The global car industry is in such a dramatic state of flux that Tavares thinks most current brands won’t survive. In fact, he predicts that as few as five or six carmakers will survive.

These could include Toyota, Hyundai, BYD, and likely another Chinese firm, possibly Geely. In this scenario, the rest of the brands would likely be gobbled up by these conglomerates.

Interestingly, Tavares doesn’t include Stellantis among the survivors. Whether that’s professional detachment or a parting shot from a man who knows too much is anyone’s guess.

Stellantis could soon find itself stepping into unfamiliar territory, as it is reportedly exploring the idea of adding Chinese-built models to its European lineup under familiar badges. According to insider sources, Opel is eyeing the electric Leapmotor B10 as its first possible contender.

German outlet Automobilwoche reports that the Chinese SUV might wear Opel badges as early as next year. Leapmotor, a Chinese EV manufacturer partly owned by Stellantis, has been steadily expanding its footprint both at home and abroad.

More: Stellantis Just Sent Europe A Warning With This Chinese-Built Electric Hatch

The unnamed source notes that while a final decision remains pending, the proposal represents “an interesting opportunity to offer a well-equipped and affordable EV in the compact SUV segment.” For now, Opel has declined to comment on any speculation surrounding its future product plans.

More: Stellantis Just Sent Europe A Warning With This Chinese-Built Electric Hatch

The Leapmotor B10 was introduced last year as a compact SUV with fully electric and range-extender powertrain options, although the latter has yet to reach the Old Continent.

Built on the LEAP3.5 platform shared with the B05 compact hatchback, it features a high-tech cabin and a full suite of driver-assistance systems that reflect the brand’s growing technical capability.

What Could It look Like?

While the scope of Opel’s redesign remains uncertain, we produced a speculative rendering that applies a few subtle styling tweaks. These include the brand’s Blitz emblem, Vizor grille, and Compass lighting signature to the front of the Chinese model, while the rest of the bodywork stays untouched

In terms of size, the B10 measures 4,515 mm (177.8 inches) long, which makes it 130 mm (5.1 inches) longer than the Opel Frontera and 135 mm (5.3 inches) shorter than the Grandland, so it slots between the two. Rivals in Europe include the VW ID.4, Skoda Elroq, and BYD Atto 3, among others.

The Leapmotor B10 is already available in Europe, but it is currently being imported from China. However, Stellantis is reportedly considering producing it in Zaragoza, Spain starting from 2026. The same factory is where Opel builds two subcompacts, the Corsa hatchback and the Mokka SUV.

More: This Stellantis SUV Without An Infotainment Screen Has Everyone Confused

Local production would also help sidestep the European Union’s steep tariffs on Chinese-built vehicles, which add 20.7 percent in duties on top of the standard 10 percent import fee.

Fighting China with China

The aim, insiders suggest, is to keep pricing competitive, possibly undercutting the current €29,900 ($34,700) starting figure in Germany. For comparison, the electric Opel Frontera begins at €28,990 ($33,700) in the same market.

According to Dataforce, Leapmotor has sold 16,485 vehicles in Europe in the first nine months of 2025. These can be broken down to 11,064 units of the T03 urban EV, 5,080 units of the C10 midsize SUV, and just 313 units of the B10 compact SUV.

The automaker recently passed the one-million-vehicle production milestone and now aims for 50,000 to 60,000 exports this year, a sign that Stellantis’ Chinese partner is becoming a more significant player in global EV manufacturing.

Sources: Automobilwoche

Electric momentum in the States has hit a few speed bumps. A mix of the Trump administration’s fuel-friendly policies and the loss of the federal EV tax credit has cooled the pace of electric vehicle growth. As a result, several automakers are rethinking their battery-powered strategies, shelving or scaling back certain projects that once seemed inevitable.

Read: Should Jeep Follow Ram’s Lead And Kill The Recon EV?

Jeep, though, says it isn’t ready to fold. After Stellantis pulled the plug on the Ram 1500 REV, some speculated the same fate might await the Jeep Recon EV. But according to the brand, the project is still alive and headed for production.

When Is It Coming?

Originally teased as a concept in 2022, the Recon EV was supposed to launch in 2024. But then Jeep went quiet. Until now. That timeline has changed, with Jeep chief executive Bob Broderdorf now confirming that the production version will make its debut soon, with sales set to begin next spring.

Built on the STLA Large platform, the Recon will slot just below the Wrangler in Jeep’s lineup of off-roaders. In an interview with Motor Trend, Broderdorf sounded unconcerned about sales figures, suggesting Jeep is treating this model as a learning opportunity rather than a volume play.

“We’ve got a great car. We’ve already built it,” he said. “We should sell it, we should learn. I don’t know how many it will be. I’m not really that worried about it.”

He added it will be built at the Toluca plant in Mexico alongside the Jeep Wagoneer S, Compass, and Cherokee, noting the plant has the flexibility to shift production depending on demand.

“We can shift and move,” he explained. “It is OK if [Recon] is low volume. If I have to sell more Cherokees, so be it.”

What Could Power It?

Key technical specifications about the Recon EV remain uncertain. However, it could share powertrains with the Wagoneer S, potentially including the same 100.5 kWh battery pack and dual-motor, all-wheel drive system.

However, as Jeep is eventually expected to release an all-electric Wrangler, it’s unlikely the Recon EV will match the 600 hp of the Wagoneer S for fear of stepping onto the Wrangler EV’s turf.

As is so often the case, the success or failure of the Recon EV will largely depend on the price. If the Recon EV lands in the right bracket, it could find steady ground among off-road enthusiasts looking for something new. But if it arrives with a steep sticker and limited range, it may struggle to get traction before it even leaves the showroom floor.

Dodge was confident that the all-electric Charger Daytona would spark a new era for muscle cars, but the reality has been far less electrifying. Reality, however, has been less kind. Reception has been lukewarm at best, and increasingly troubled as early issues begin to surface.

Not only has Dodge already dropped the base R/T models, but a growing number of drivers are now voicing concerns about serious faults with the car.

Read: Charger Daytona Owner Says His New Car Is ‘Practically Useless’ After Endless Problems

One owner describes the new Charger Daytona as a car that “drives and performs phenomenally,” but only when it works. And, it seems it doesn’t work as it should much of the time. Among the most troubling issues is inconsistent charging performance.

What’s Wrong With Charging?

Writing on Reddit, the driver explains that they’ve never managed to charge the vehicle reliably at public stations. Sessions frequently stall, forcing them to unplug and reconnect every 5 to 10 percent, which is understandably maddening.

At one charging station, he said he had to trick the app into thinking his Charger was a Cadillac Lyriq just to get the session started. He also mentioned that the home charger included with the purchase has yet to arrive.

There’s also an issue with the rear seat, as we’ve reported previously. When you pull forward the front seat to allow a rear-seat passenger to get out, the front seat will slowly slide forward before automatically sliding backward, potentially pinching someone trying to climb out from the rear.

Terrifying Brakes

The “last straw” was a fault they experienced with the brakes. While stopped outside a store, the brake pedal was pressed firmly to the floor, yet the car attempted to surge forward several times

Moments later, the dashboard lit up with multiple warning lights, traction control switched off on its own, and the Daytona eventually shut down completely. It stayed that way for several minutes before it would restart.

More: Only A Dodge Charger EV Could Get Ticketed For A Loud Exhaust

Stellantis hasn’t been much help, according to the poster. The company denied a buy-back request but did agree to cover a rental while the Charger is being repaired. Unfortunately, the allowance is capped at $60 a day, while the least expensive rental available costs $80.

“I’m at a loss with options, and I just want to warn anyone considering purchasing or leasing this vehicle,” they added. “I unfortunately went the purchase route since I drive so many miles a year.”

Given the extent of these problems, his best option may now be to pursue legal help under lemon laws to force a buy-back.

BUYER BEWARE: Dodge Charger Daytona – Numerous Issues – Lack of Support.
byu/hobobumpkins inDodge

Update: Leapmotor has pulled the wraps off its newest flagship, the D19 SUV, releasing images and preliminary specifications ahead of its market debut next year. We’ve gathered all official details and photos below.

Leapmotor, the Chinese EV manufacturer partly owned by Stellantis, continues to expand its lineup into new segments. Fresh off the debut of the B05 / Lafa 5 hatchback at the Munich motor show last month, the company has introduced a new flagship SUV.

Named the D19, this full-size model is set to go on sale in China during the first half of 2026, promising premium comfort and advanced technology at a price designed to appeal to a broad audience.

Big SUV Energy

The styling of the new model is modern yet somewhat generic, its proportions aligning with other full-size electric SUVs from China such as the Li Auto L9, Dongfeng Yipai 008, Chery Fulwin T11, GAC Trumpchi S9, Zeekr 9X, Nio Onvo L90, and Geely Galaxy M9.

That isn’t necessarily a drawback. Buyers in this segment usually care less about making a design statement and more about space, comfort, and the kind of quiet authority a big SUV delivers.

More: Stellantis Just Sent Europe A Warning With This Chinese-Built Electric Hatch

One of the most distinctive design elements is the thick chrome trim that wraps around the side windows and obscures the D-pillar, giving it a Rolls-Royce Cullinan meets Mercedes-Maybach GLS vibe. Leapmotor has also added a unique lighting signature for the split headlights and full-width taillights.

The D19 also also features chrome-finished disc wheels that further echo styling cues from Rolls-Royce and Maybach. Measuring 5.2 meters (204.7 inches) long with a generous 3.1 m (122 inches) wheelbase, the SUV is roughly the same size as a BMW X7 or a Mercedes GLS.

We haven’t seen the interior yet, but it’s expected to feature an advanced digital cockpit with a dedicated passenger display, along with high-quality materials throughout the cabin. The D19 will run on dual Qualcomm Snapdragon 8797 chipsets, one handling infotainment, the other powering the sophisticated ADAS suite.

Another unusual feature is the built-in oxygen generator, capable of producing 8 liters per minute. The company says it keeps the air clean and breathable in traffic or at altitude, which at best feels like an acknowledgment of how bad urban air has become, and at worst, a gimmick.

Powertrain Options

In terms of powertrain options, the D19 will be offered in both fully electric and range-extender forms. The battery-electric version generates 724 hp (540 kW / 734 PS) with a massive 115 kWh battery offering 720 km (447 miles) of CLTC range.

The hybrid combines dual electric motors with a range-extender combustion engine producing a total of 536 hp (400 kW / 544 PS). The 80.3 kWh battery offers 500 km (311 miles) of EV-only range, hinting at a really impressive combined figure between charging and refueling stops.

How Much Will It Cost?

Perhaps most noteworthy detail is pricing. Leapmotor has indicated a starting price between ¥250,000 and ¥300,000, which converts to around $35,000 to $42,000. And yes, that figure sounds like a bargain for anyone trying to buy a car in the West these days.

In fact, that’s roughly what you’d pay for a hybrid Toyota RAV4 or Honda CR-V here in the States, or, worse still, a mid-level Toyota Yaris Cross if you happen to live in Germany. And that’s not even getting into the more painful pricing realities in other parts of Europe.

Even so, you might be surprised to learn that the D19 won’t be the cheapest in its class. The Geely Galaxy M9 undercuts it with a current starting price of ¥173,800 ($24,400), thanks to discounts.

A Growing Lineup And A Production Milestone

Naturally, the D19 will sit above the T03, B01, B10, C01, C10, C11, and C16, making it the new range-topper in Leapmotor’s domestic lineup. Spy shots have also hinted at a flagship minivan currently in development, which may share the same platform as the large SUV.

More: China’s Trumpchi S9 Is Here To Make Luxury SUVs Great Again For The People

On September 25, Leapmotor announced that its one millionth vehicle had rolled off the production line. The automaker reaffirmed its commitment to “fully in-house R&D” and its goal of becoming a “respected, world-class smart electric vehicle company.”

Leapmotor

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.

More: Nissan Confirms Plug-in Hybrid Frontier

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.”

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.

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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).

More: Stellantis Turns Its Cheapest SUV Into A Tree House With A View

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.

More: Dacia’s Tiny EV Declares War On Europe’s Overpriced Cars

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.

Opening Photo: Reddit

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.

More: Fiat’s Gas Comeback Brings A Manual Transmission To A Car Once Meant To Be EV Only

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.

More: Fiat’s Next Big Thing Is This Small Thing Reviving A Classic

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.

The electric Dodge Challenger hasn’t had the greatest start to life. After middling reviews, low sales, and many reports of problems, things might be getting even worse. According to industry sources, the 800-volt Banshee halo trim is dead before it ever arrives.

More: Ford, GM, And Stellantis Paid Billions To Tesla And Rivian Until Trump Pulled The Plug

Over the past six months, Stellantis has made a dramatic pivot from its EV goals to a more conventional ICE-focused plan. The HEMI V8 is reigning supreme once again with its reintroduction to the Ram 1500, exclusive use in the Durango, and continuation in the Jeep Wrangler. Heck, even the Gladiator might get one.

Strategy in Flux

That makes a report from MoparInsiders indicating the death of the flagship SRT Banshee all the more believable. Suppliers allegedly claim that Dodge has axed the car entirely. Dodge didn’t confirm or deny the decision when we asked for comment.

“Stellantis continues to reassess its product strategy to align with consumer demand”, a press spokesperson told us. “Our plan ensures we offer customers a range of vehicles with flexible powertrain options that best meet their needs. With the great news announced in July that Stellantis is bringing back its iconic SRT performance division, it follows that we are also reviewing the plan for future SRT vehicles.”

Rules No Longer Binding

Undoubtedly, the brand is clearly willing to make big sweeping changes now that EPA regulations basically don’t matter, and as a result, automakers won’t have to pay for carbon emission credits. The all-electric Ram REV is dead, as is the Jeep Gladiator 4xe plug-in hybrid. What’s one more EV that would’ve cost more than the Charger Daytona already does?

That said, it’s not as if performance at the brand is going by the wayside. The Charger SIXPACK is rolling out and promises a taste of what the Hellcats once offered. The possibility of a V8 Charger feels more plausible than ever, even if it’ll take reworking of the chassis and engine bay. We’ve reached out to Stellantis and will update this piece if we hear anything new. 

Credit: Michael Gauthier / Dodge