Mercedes confirms its roadmap now includes long-term support for combustion engines.
Next-gen EVs ride on new platforms with faster charging and improved segment coverage.
Mercedes-Benz may be pouring resources into electric powertrains like every other legacy automaker with a deadline and a vision statement, but that doesn’t mean internal combustion engines are on their way out. In fact, the company now expects its gas-powered models to stick around longer than originally planned, reflecting a more measured approach to the EV transition than earlier timelines suggested.
EVs and ICEs Will Coexist for the Foreseeable Future
That dual-track strategy is showing up clearly in the brand’s upcoming lineup. The next-generation CLA and the upcoming 2026 GLC will both be offered with either electric or combustion engines, giving buyers more flexibility, especially in markets where EV infrastructure is still catching up. In a recent interview with Auto Motor und Sport, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Kallenius referred to this as a “course correction” in the company’s electric roadmap.
“The electrified high-tech combustion engines will run longer than we originally expected,” Kallenius told the publication. “I believe the most rational approach in the current situation is for an established manufacturer to do both and not neglect one technology.”
Still, More EVs Are Coming
Kallenius did not specify how long the combustion engines will stick around, but it should certainly be into the next decade. In the meantime, the number of EVs from Mercedes will continue to grow.
Mercedes GLC EV
“The new CLA is the greeting from the kitchen of an entire family,” he told AMS. “Then the core segments will follow with the electric versions of the GLC, C-Class, and E-Class. We still have an incredible amount in the pipeline.”
The new GLC EV will serve as a replacement to the current EQC, which has never taken off quite as the brand would have hoped. This second-gen model will be a rival to BMW’s Neue Klasse iX3. It’ll be underpinned by the new MB.EA architecture, differing from the new CLA that uses the MMA platform. Importantly, MB.EA supports an 800-volt system and should support charging speeds of up to 320 kW.
Just like Porsche is currently doing with the Macan (albeit only in North America), Mercedes will sell the electric GLC alongside the combustion-powered version. The two won’t share a platform, but they will coexist, giving the brand some breathing room as the world transitions from fuel pumps to plugs.
The Toyota Century SUV is now equipped as standard with dimming rear windows.
Passengers can select among three levels of opacity – clear, semi-transparent, and opaque.
The new feature has increased the starting price of the SUV to ¥27 million ($183,300).
If you were already thinking the Toyota Century SUV was as close to automotive royalty as you could get without actually being crowned, you were right. Now, Toyota has made it just a little more special with a new feature: dimming rear windows, standard across the 2025 model. Sure, it’s not the most groundbreaking update, but for a vehicle that’s already as posh as it gets, every little tweak matters.
For the 2026MY, the main update to the Century SUV is a new three-stage dimming function for the rear door and rear quarter windows, which can shift between clear, semi-transparent, and fully opaque. Toyota achieved this by layering a special film between two panes of transparent laminated glass on both sides of the vehicle. The panoramic sunroof, however, doesn’t get the same treatment and sticks with a conventional electric sunshade instead.
Built for the Back Seat
Toyota’s goal with the dimming windows was to enhance privacy for the rear passengers, blocking the views from outside without sacrificing the soft natural light. In opaque mode, the atmosphere is reminiscent of a Japanese room.
After all, the Century SUV has been primarily designed as a chauffeured vehicle, with emphasis on the rear section of the cabin. We’re talking about electric retractable steps, wide-opening rear doors, assist grips, ambient lighting, retractable tables, antibacterial surfaces, coat hooks, and even a holder for your shoehorn. Yes, that’s right, a shoehorn holder.
Still not convinced? The rear seats come with retractable backrests and footrests that fold out into a fully flat position, perfect for a quick nap between meetings. Or pretending you have meetings. Rear passengers also get their own control panel and a dedicated entertainment system with individual displays, all tied into an 18-speaker premium audio setup, just in case your playlist needs to make a strong first impression.
There are no changes on the exterior or interior design of the Century SUV, which is still quite fresh, having been introduced in September 2023. At 5,205 mm (204.9 inches) long, it’s often called Japan’s answer to the Rolls-Royce Cullinan, and with an expansive menu of personalization options, including full bespoke builds, it earns that comparison.
Under the hood, the Century SUV employs a 3.5-liter V6 plug-in hybrid setup producing a total of 406 hp (303 kW / 412 PS). Power is delivered to all four wheels via the E-Four Advanced AWD system, while the battery provides an EV-only range of 69 km (43 miles). Toyota has officially confirmed there will be a GR Century SUV with performance enhancements from its Gazoo Racing division.
The new dimming glass feature bumps the starting price by ¥2 million ($13,600), bringing the total to ¥27 million ($183,300). Not that it matters to most people, since availability remains extremely limited. Orders are accepted only at select Japanese dealerships and primarily offered to existing Century sedan owners.
Naturally, Toyota isn’t the first to bring dimming glass to a production vehicle. Brands like Maybach, Mercedes, and McLaren have already been using smart glass tech in the sunroofs and side windows of their high-end models. Even Nissan has joined the club, recently adding an electrochromic sunroof option to the latest Leaf.
BMW’s 540i Legacy Edition is exclusive to Canada with just 151 units available.
This is the first six-cylinder version of the G60 sedan in Canada without a plug.
The limited-edition is offered with a unique set of Individual Manufaktur colors.
BMW has launched a new version of the 5-Series, but before you get too excited, it’s not a high-performance M model. Instead, it’s a special version of the 540i xDrive known as the Legacy Edition that will be available exclusively to the Canadian market. Production of it will be limited to just 151 examples, so interested shoppers had better head to a BMW dealer pronto, or else they may miss out.
The most appealing part of the 540i xDrive Legacy Edition is its engine. It’s the first version of the current 5-Series to be sold in Canada with six cylinders and without a plug-in hybrid system.
Power is provided by BMW’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, punching out 375 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque that’s assisted by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. Working alongside an eight-speed automatic ‘box, the sporty sedan can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.7 seconds. Before the arrival of this model, the 550 eDrive PHEV was the only other six-cylinder model on sale.
Buyers who want their Legacy Edition to stand out from the rest in case the (admittedly rare) chance they meet another at the golf club or local mall can order an Individual Manufaktur color at no additional cost.
The car pictured here is painted in Maldives Black II Metallic, a throwback color that, as you can see from the photos, takes inspiration from the E34. That generation of the 5-Series was the first to wear the 540i badge, and it was something special. Not only was it the first regular 5-Series to offer a V8 engine, but it could also be paired with a manual six-speed gearbox.
As for the new G60, if teal isn’t your thing, there are other options, including Oxford Green Metallic, Black Blue non-metallic, Cinabar Red, Grigio Telesto Pearl Effect Metallic, Frozen Black, and Sepang Bronze Metallic.
All cars come standard with 21-inch Individual wheels and the M Sport Pro Package. Customers can also choose between red and blue M Sport brake calipers. Other standard features include an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system and ventilated front seats.
BMW hasn’t announced prices for the limited-edition model yet, but there’s a good chance it’ll start at over CA$100,000 (~$72,600). The order books have already opened, and deliveries are scheduled for the fourth quarter of this year.
The popular EV has been fitted with a distinctive rear end and new 21-inch wheels.
Tesla is expected to unveil the Model Y Performance in the coming months.
Like the Model 3 Performance, the new model includes a special badge on the rear.
The wait for Tesla’s next high-performance electric crossover is nearly over, and it looks like the final pieces are falling into place. Shortly after our spy photographers snapped a camouflaged prototype at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, a prototype has been filmed completely undisguised while testing in the German Alps.
It appears this fuzzy, rolling shot of the Model Y Performance prototype was taken by the exterior cameras of another Tesla that was passing by. Just like the prototype we recently spotted, this one also appears to be rocking the same front bumper as all refreshed Model Ys.
The footage, which appears to have been recorded by the external cameras of another Tesla driving nearby, gives us our clearest look yet at the updated Performance trim. Like the refreshed Model Y Juniper we’ve already seen, the front bumper carries over the same design.
Spin around, though, and you’ll see that it has a unique rear bumper. Like the standard Model Y, it’s blacked out, but there are two small diffusers. While their aerodynamic effects will probably be tiny, they do make the Performance easy to pick from lesser versions. A new badge has also been added to the tailgate, likely mimicking the ‘Plaid’ badge found on the Model 3 Performance.
The sporty EV also has some other noticeable changes. For starters, we’re given another look at the 21-inch wheels that will be fitted exclusively to the Model Y Performance. Visible at the rear is also a much larger lip spoiler, giving the Model Y some much-needed sporty appeal.
Then there’s the color. This Model Y looks like it has a unique shade of burnt orange, but that might not be the case. The side cameras of Teslas with the HW3 self-driving computer often make red cars appear orange, reportedly because they lack an infrared cut filter. So, while this tester looks orange, it’s very likely Tesla’s existing shade of red.
In terms of performance, the new model should have the same basic dual-motor system as the Model 3 Performance, delivering 510 hp and 554 lb-ft (751 Nm) of torque. That should allow it to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in just over three seconds. Quick enough to justify the badge, and probably quicker than most owners will ever need.
🔥🔥 New Tesla Model Y Performance spotted uncovered in the Alps!
Skoda’s upcoming Epiq crossover has been spotted testing in Europe.
The FWD EV shares its platform with the VW ID.2 and Cupra Raval.
Epiq is one of five new electric cars Skoda will launch before 2027.
While some brands’ commitment to the EV causes has wavered recently, Skoda is showing no sign of taking its foot off the electric gas pedal. The VW-owned Czech brand has five new EVs coming through in the next couple of years, including the little Epiq, which has been spied testing for the first time.
We’ve not heard much from the small electric crossover since Skoda revealed it in March of 2024, but a full production debut was always planned for this year and these images confirm we won’t have long to wait for the €25,000 ($29,000) EV to arrive in showrooms.
Designed to slot below the larger Karoq-sized Elroq, which was also revealed in 2024 but is already on sale, the Epiq uses a different version of VW’s MEB platform. While the Elroq is related to VW’s ID.3 and nominally rear-wheel drive, the Epiq is more closely aligned with the upcoming ID.2 and gets the newer front-wheel drive MEB architecture that’ll also be used on the Cupra Raval.
Visually, the Epiq fully embraces Skoda’s Modern Solid design language, borrowing heavily from the big 7S concept unveiled in 2022. At around 4.1 m (161.4 inches) long, it only occupies the same amount of road space as the little Fabia hatch, but Skoda says that the EV will provide an “epic amount of space” for passengers and a relatively huge 490-liter (17.3 cu-ft) trunk will ensure they’ll have plenty of space for their luggage.
Baldauf
The interior features a large tablet touchscreen, which is thankfully backed up by a row of hard buttons further down the console. Skoda hasn’t revealed much in the way of technical spec other than to say it would offer a 250-mile (400 km) driving range and bi-directional charging.
Even so, based on what we know about the new MEB Short platform, we think the Epiq will come with a choice of 38 kWh and 56 kWh batteries and higher-spec models are likely to feature a single 222 hp (226 PS / 166 kW) motor driving the front wheels that will allow it to hit 62 mph (100 km/h) in less than 7 seconds.
It looks like a compelling package, one that could help Skoda claim another famous scalp. It was the fourth-best-selling brand in Europe last year, and its 767,000 tally put it only 8,000 cars away from third-placed BMW. That’s an incredible achievement for a company that was once the butt of jokes.
When Toyota dropped the GR Yaris in 2020, it wasn’t just another hot hatch. It was a full-throttle wake-up call to the entire segment, reminding everyone that performance and passion can still exist in a small package. Think of it as the industry’s equivalent of someone shouting “Wake up!” at a sluggish meeting. The GR Yaris, with its rally-inspired roots, brought the heat in a way that hadn’t been seen since the 2015 Ford Focus RS.
With a highly-strung 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, a bespoke two-door shell, and a platform incorporating elements from the regular Yaris and the Corolla, the GR Yaris proved to be an instant hit. Now, it has been updated for the 2025 model year with more aggressive styling, an extra dose of power, and an overhauled interior.
What was arguably the best hot hatch on the market now promises to be even better. But does it really live up to that claim? That’s exactly what we’re here to find out.
QUICK FACTS
› Model:
2025 Toyota GR Yaris GTS
› Starting Price:
AU$66,008 (~$42,900)
› Dimensions:
3,995 mm (157.2 in.) L
1,805mm (71 in.) W
1,455 mm (57.2 in.) H
2,560 mm (100.7 in) Wheelbase
› Curb Weight:
1,280 kg (2,821 lbs) manual / 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) auto
› Powertrain:
1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder
› Output:
296 hp (221 kW) / 296 lb-ft (401 Nm) combined
› 0-62 mph
5.0 seconds (manual), 4.7 seconds (auto)
› Transmission:
Six-speed manual / Eight-speed automatic
› Fuel Economy:
9.0 l/100 km as tested
› On Sale:
Now
*Manufacturer
SWIPE
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
The Goodies
When first launched in Australia back in 2020, the GR Yaris was available in a standard guise and a limited-run version known as the ‘Rallye’, capped at just 250 units. This Rallye version came equipped with all the same upgrades found in the Circuit Pack offered in overseas markets, including stiffer suspension, lighter wheels, and most importantly, limited-slip differentials at both the front and rear axles.
Both cars proved hugely popular, but understandably, the Rallye was the better pick of the two. In updating the GR Yaris for 2025, Toyota has named the base version the GT, and the Rallye has morphed into the GTS, but importantly, production of it is no longer limited.
The GTS comes with a host of upgrades, including red brake calipers, two limited-slip differentials (LSDs), 18-inch forged BBS wheels, revised suspension, and grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. It even features an intercooler spray system, just like an old Mitsubishi Evo.
The updates don’t stop there. The buzzing 1.6-liter turbo three-cylinder has been upgraded to the same spec you’ll find in the larger GR Corolla. That means it now delivers 296 hp (221 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 296 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque between 3,250 rpm and 4,600 rpm, compared to the 268 hp (200 kW) and 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) of the old model.
However, perhaps the most significant single change is on the transmission front. For the first time, the GR Yaris is available with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This new gearbox is offered alongside the same six-speed manual found in the previous model.
With these modifications comes a jump in price. In Australia, the GR Yaris is available from AU$60,798 (~$39,500) for the base GT model and $66,008 (~$42,900) for the GTS.
Everyone loves performance upgrades, but when the new GR Yaris was released, not everyone was sold on the new interior. It’s easy to see why. It’s generally quite unusual for a brand to make such significant changes to a car’s cabin during a mid-cycle facelift, but that’s exactly what Toyota has done, aiming to make the GR Yaris more driver-focused while addressing some of the original’s complaints.
The dashboard has been completely redesigned, and the central stack is now curved towards the driver, ensuring everything is within easy reach. Toyota has also repositioned the rearview mirror slightly higher, improving visibility.
At first glance, the new cabin is quite jarring, but I grew to appreciate its design after a few days. The analog gauge cluster of the old car has been replaced with a 12.3-inch digital display that offers some impressive, motorsport-inspired displays. However, there’s no ignoring the fact that aside from the screens, the cabin of the GR Yaris feels cheap.
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
The new dash, while functional, is made entirely from hard black plastic that feels more fitting of a AU$30,000 (~$19,000) car. The same hard plastic continues across the rest of the dashboard, the pillars, the transmission tunnel, and the door panels. Other than the seats, the steering wheel, and the shifter, there are no soft-touch surfaces in sight. Even the faux suede patches on the door panels sit over solid plastic. For a car that costs this much, Toyota should have made the surfaces feel a little nicer.
On the plus side, the seats have been lowered by 25 mm (1 inch) compared to the old car. However, the seating position is still a little too high for my liking. The seats themselves are good, but not exceptional, and certainly not as comfortable or as supportive as those found in the Honda Civic Type R.
The enlarged 8.0-inch infotainment screen offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but other than that, it is extremely bland. The software is devoid of virtually any interesting features or sporty displays, like those found in the Honda or one of Hyundai’s N models.
Of course, you’re probably not that interested in the cabin of the GR Yaris. What you really want to know is how it drives, right? Well, I’m happy to report it’s even better than before.
A Pocket Rocket With Sounds To Match
First up is the engine. Sure, it may only have three cylinders and a 1.6-liter displacement, but this little unit delivers a sound and character that outshines any comparable four-cylinder on the market. Heck, it even sounds more exciting than the inline-six in the Supra. No joke.
Under full throttle, the engine growls, accompanied by a lovely whoosh from the exhaust, making it sound like a proper rally car. There are also some lovely whistles from the turbocharger when you back off the accelerator. It may not have the pops and bangs of an i30 N or a Golf R, but it sounds more like an authentic performance car.
As before, acceleration is impressively strong. While testing the manual, we recorded a best time of 5.0 seconds in the sprint to 100 km/h (62 mph) with a GPS timer. This time dropped to 4.7 seconds with the eight-speed automatic version, which, unlike the manual, includes a launch control system. Make no mistake, this will leave any front-wheel drive competitor for dead off the line, although the auto version doesn’t launch quite as hard as a Golf R.
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
Automatic or Manual? Either Way, It’s a Blast
Speaking of the automatic, it’s actually a pretty great one. Much like it’s easy to dismiss the GR Yaris due to its small engine, it’s equally tempting to overlook the automatic transmission because it’s a traditional torque converter, not a dual-clutch like some rivals. But Toyota has worked its magic on the gearbox, and the result is impressive.
The eight-speed provides snappy changes as soon as you pull on the steering wheel-mounted paddles. It’s equally as responsive when left in automatic mode, too, and will quickly and easily find the right gear depending on how you’re driving. Admittedly, it doesn’t shift gears as quickly as the DCT or an i30 N or Golf R, but it is far, far smoother at low speeds.
There’s no jerkiness when cruising around in first gear, nor any hesitation when changing from 1st to 2nd, or 2nd to 1st, as is common with a dual-clutch. The auto should massively broaden the appeal of the GR Yaris. But, it’s worth pointing out the gear changes are not as quick as you’ll find from the ZF eight-speed auto in the GR Supra.
Of course, hardcore driving enthusiasts would be best to opt for the six-speed manual. It has a short, and surprisingly weighty throw, and is a joy to use. It also includes a superb automatic rev-matching function.
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
Handling and Fun Factor
Let’s not forget the all-wheel-drive system. Toyota has changed some of the configurable settings for the GR-Four all-wheel drive system. Previously, it had offered Normal, Track, and Sport settings, providing front-to-rear power splits of 60:40, 50:50, and 30:70, respectively. For 2025, Normal has been retained, but Sport has been changed to Gravel with a 53:47 split. Additionally, Track is now a variable system, intelligently adjusting between 60:40 and 30:70 as needed.
I preferred the old setup, as having a fixed 30:70 front-to-rear power bias allowed you to transform the feel of the car. The Gravel model is cool, but not as useful on a daily basis.
But, despite these adjustments, the GR Yaris still handles as phenomenally as ever. The noise of the Michelin tires may reverberate throughout the cabin at high speeds, but when combined with the Toyota’s beautifully engineered suspension system and the two limited-slip diffs, they provide incredible levels of grip. The light overall weight of the car adds to the thrilling driving experience, and there are few cars out there that are more enjoyable to drive up a mountain road.
Like the old car, the steering is excellent too. It’s not as communicative as a Civic Type R, but it’s well-weighted and offers Normal and Sport settings. Speaking of modes, there are Eco, Normal, Sport, and a Custom driving model. Unfortunately, the Custom mode only lets you tweak the engine response, steering, and air conditioning in the six-speed, while adding an option to tweak the aggressiveness of the transmission in the eight-speed. Most rivals offer more settings to play with.
As with the original GR Yaris, there’s also a proper rally-inspired handbrake that disconnects the rear axle and lets you perform smoky, all-wheel drive donuts.
Photos Brad Anderson/Carscoops
The outright performance of this pint-sized hot hatch is extremely impressive, but, importantly, you don’t have to drive it at ten-tenths to enjoy it. That’s the most significant difference between the GR Yaris and the Civic Type R, for example. Whereas the Honda is relatively tame and uninspiring while puttering around town, the Toyota remains fun to drive at slow speeds, providing far more theater than its Japanese counterpart.
I was also impressed with the ride of the GR Yaris. While it only has fixed dampers, compared to the adjustable ones you’ll find in some rivals, they’ve been nicely tuned and soak up bumps well. It’s more than comfortable enough for daily use. But, adaptive shocks would be nice.
Verdict
There’s no denying that the new GR Yaris is extremely expensive for what amounts to a very small, and very impractical car. However, when you consider the bespoke architecture of the car, its complex four-wheel drive system, and all the sporty add-ons of the GTS model, the sky-high price becomes a little easier to understand.
We’re living in an amazing period of hot hatches at the moment, and the GR Yaris is the finest of them all. It’s blisteringly fast across a small B-road, comfortable enough to be used on a daily basis, looks the business, and provides thrills at all speeds. Had it been equipped with a slightly more premium cabin, it would be virtually faultless.
A performance variant of BMW’s upcoming iX5 electric SUV has been spied testing in Germany.
The SUV looks like an iX5 M70 that could battle the Lotus Eletre and Porsche Cayenne Electric.
BMW is sticking with the CLAR platform for the X5 rather than moving to Neue Klasse architecture.
Like it or not, BMW M’s best-selling vehicle is an EV, the i4 M50, which was recently upgraded to become the i4 M60. And there’s plenty more where that came from, including a fully electric M3 and the musclebound electric SUV you see here.
The big drilled brake discs and huge wheels make it clear we’re looking at a performance variant of the upcoming iX5, BMW’s first ever electric X5. And based on what we know of the brand’s current naming strategy, we think it’s likely an iX5 M70.
The 23-inch, five-spoke forged rims are wrapped in Michelin tires rated to over 150 mph (240 km/h), and we’ve no doubt the M70 will be capable of sailing past that speed – and then some in case BMW doesn’t restrict it. Odds-on it’s powered by the same dual-motor powertrain setup that’s already seeing action in the i7 M70, where it makes 650 hp (659 PS / 485 kW) and can send the sedan to 62 mph (100 kmh) in 3.7 seconds. Let’s hope BMW can use its latest battery technology to improve on the i7’s M70’s range, which the EPA says is just 268-285 miles (431-459 km).
Like the i7, the new iX5, which will also be available in combustion form, relies on an updated version of the existing CLAR architecture. That’s a major difference between the X5/iX5 and the X3/iX3; on the smaller SUV the combustion car is CLAR-based but the iX3 moves to BMW’s Neue Klasse platform.
But even if it’s not Neue Klasse under the skin, the X5 will still look the part, borrowing design cues from the iX3, which was previewed by last year’s Vision Neue Klasse X concept, including a visor-like front-end. These pictures show the project is still at a relatively early stage, so the lights aren’t representative and there are some riveted panels on the bodywork and heavy camouflage on the bumpers.
The iX5 and this M70 variant should arrive next year in time to battle Porsche’s first ever Cayenne Electric and give existing electric SUVs like the Lotus Eletre a hard time. But the good news for combustion fans is that both the BMW and Porsche will also be available in ICE forms, and even Lotus is working on a hybrid version of the Eletre in response to a slowdown in luxury EV uptake and steep tariffs.
A new report suggests Volkswagen is considering a tri-motor ID.2 R with 400 hp.
This model could surpass the Golf R in performance and handling capabilities.
Spy photographers captured the standard ID.2, expected to arrive next year.
Volkswagen previewed the upcoming ID.2 GTI with a concept at the 2023 Munich Motor Show, and a new report suggests it could be followed by a hardcore ID.2 R. If things pan out, it could be even more powerful than the 2025 Golf R.
According to a report from Autocar, the German carmaker is considering an ID.2 R as part of a wider effort to “explore the potency and torque-vectoring potential of hub motors.” While the model hasn’t been approved at this point, it could have a high-tech powertrain that mixes ‘old’ with new.
In particular, the car could use the front-mounted motor from the ID.2 GTI. It could be joined by two rear in-wheel motors, giving the hot hatch a tri-motor all-wheel drive system. The report suggests we can expect an output of around 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS), which would eclipse the 328 hp (245 kW / 333 PS) Golf R.
Besides packing plenty of power, the tri-motor powertrain would allow for impressive handling. This would reportedly be aided by “predictive torque distribution, brake-based yaw control, and dynamic drive modes.”
Little else is known about the car at this point, but it would likely feature the usual R upgrades. As a result, we can expect unique interior and exterior styling as well as a sportier driving experience.
ID.2 Continues Testing
SHProshots
Spy photographers recently snapped an ID.2 prototype disguised as a Polo and now they’ve caught another car in the Alps. Dressed in traditional black and white camouflage, the model follows in the footsteps of the ID.2all concept but features a heavily revised front end.
The changes immediately stand out as the road-going model has a taller hood and more traditional headlights with top-mounted DRLs. We can also see a revamped bumper with a wide intake and vertical air curtains.
The profile is virtually identical to the concept, although the lower door treatment is a tad more conservative. Elsewhere, there are larger side mirrors and an evolutionary rear end.
When the ID.2all concept was introduced, Volkswagen was planning to introduce the production model in 2025 with a base price of less than €25,000 ($28,747). While the car is now expected to arrive in 2026, Volkswagen billed it “as spacious as a Golf” and “as affordable as a Polo.”
It’s slated to ride on the new MEB Entry platform and the concept had 223 hp (166 kW / 226 PS) as well as up to 280 miles (450 km) of range. However, the production model will presumably be offered in multiple configurations.
A facelifted version of the Renault Megane E-Tech is expected to debut next year.
Spy photos suggest that the EV will adopt Renault’s latest styling language.
According to reports from France, it will also gain new locally-produced batteries.
Renault is giving the Megane E-Tech a much-needed refresh in 2026, five years after it first hit the streets. This mid-lifecycle update is set to bring the electric crossover, which is really more of a hatchback, up to date with sleeker styling and updated battery packs, so it can stay competitive with newer rivals on the market.
The French brand has already made a few incremental updates to the Megane E-Tech, including adding one-pedal driving, Vehicle-to-Grid functions, and introducing an Esprit Alpine trim. However, these minor changes were just a warm-up for the upcoming actual facelift.
Small Changes, Big Upgrades
Our spy photographers caught a camouflaged prototype during testing, revealing some of the key changes. The front end will receive a major overhaul, adopting the latest styling from Renault’s other models, including the Scenic E-Tech and the ICE-powered Clio and Captur. Expect slimmer LED headlights, a new grille, and a more minimalist bumper design.
The profile will be largely left untouched, but Renault designers could add new alloy wheels and more options in the color palette. The rear will also see modest updates, with refreshed LED taillight graphics and a tweaked bumper.
Inside, the Megane E-Tech will probably stay the same. After all, it was the first model to feature Renault’s new digital cockpit and the Google-powered OpenR infotainment system, which has since been rolled out to other models in the lineup.
Setting aside the cosmetic changes, the new Megane E-Tech will bring important upgrades under the skin. Renault is expected to replace the current 40kW and 60kW LG battery packs that are being imported with new ones from AESC. These will be produced in Douai, France, and could extend the driving range of the EV over the 470 km (290 miles) offered by the current version.
Judging from the new generation of the Nissan Leaf that also rides on the same CMF-EV architecture, the facelifted Renault Megane E-Tech could gain 150 kW DC fast charging capabilities.
At the moment, it is not clear whether Renault will upgrade the electric powertrain of the Megane E-Tech. The outgoing model is available with single electric motors producing either 129 hp (96 kW / 131 PS) or 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS). What we know for sure is that the Renault won’t get the tri-motor powertrain of the more upmarket Alpine A390 that generates up to 463 hp (345 kW / 469 PS).
The facelifted Megane E-Tech is expected to be unveiled toward the end of 2025, with a market launch in 2026. Meanwhile, reports suggest that Renault is already working on a completely new generation of the model, which could arrive around 2029.
A leaked photo reveals the redesigned exterior of the next-generation Mazda CX-5 SUV.
The updated crossover will offer a hybrid powertrain option developed entirely in-house.
An official debut is expected soon, with the SUV likely arriving as a 2026 model year in America.
Mazda’s best-selling SUV is getting a major overhaul, and it’s not trying to keep it a secret. The third-generation CX-5 brings updated styling, new tech, and — for the first time — a hybrid option. A leaked photo may have jumped the gun, showing the new model in full, without any camouflage, and hinting that the official reveal could be just around the corner.
The image surfaced on Cochespias, with the Instagram page of Car Design News cited as the original source. It looks legitimate, especially since the model closely resembles the camouflaged prototypes spotted during testing. The overall proportions and window shape remain familiar, echoing the outgoing CX-5, but the body panels have been entirely reworked.
Sharper Details, Familiar Shape
What stands out first is the headlight design. The new units curve into the grille, not unlike what we once saw on the now-discontinued Mercedes-Benz EQC. The grille itself keeps its signature shape but introduces a fresh pattern and thinner chrome accents. The bumper is still cleanly sculpted, free of faux side vents, though the lower intake has grown noticeably, giving the front end a more pronounced look.
Around the wheel arches, unpainted plastic cladding gives the crossover a slightly more rugged appearance, although higher trim levels could swap it out for body-colored panels. The rear isn’t visible in the leaked shot, but earlier spy photos suggest slimmer LED taillights, which bring to mind BMW’s concept cars, along with a pair of exposed exhaust pipes.
The new Mazda CX-5 (above) compared to the outgoing generation (below).
It’s a safe bet that the new CX-5 will bring improvements to the interior, likely borrowing materials and tech from Mazda’s more upscale models. Expect a bump in quality, a larger infotainment system, and maybe even a few design cues from the CX-90. A modest increase in size could also make it a more practical choice for families.
Mazda has confirmed that the upcoming CX-5 will offer a self charging hybrid variant developed entirely in-house. This version will also introduce the new SkyActiv-Z gasoline engine, which aims to deliver better fuel efficiency and stronger performance. But don’t expect it right away, as the engine won’t join the lineup until late 2027, so the hybrid will likely launch with an existing powertrain before switching over later.
The current-generation CX-5 arrived in late 2016, so this redesign is overdue. The new model could land in the US as a 2026 model-year vehicle, with a global debut expected within weeks.
Mazda’s long-standing rival, the Toyota RAV4, recently got a full redesign for 2026. The updated CX-5 will also go head-to-head with the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester, both of which already offer hybrid powertrains. In a segment where efficiency and tech are more important than ever, the new CX-5 will need more than just good looks to stand out.
