Global News Archives

Audi Introduces All-New A6 Sedan with Benchmark Aerodynamics and Refined Driving Dynamics

Audi has expanded its A6 model line with a new business-class sedan that merges elegance with technological sophistication. Set for a global rollout beginning mid-April 2025, the new A6 Sedan embodies the marque’s commitment to design excellence, aerodynamic efficiency, and driving comfort, marking a new chapter in the premium full-size segment.

This latest iteration of the A6 boasts a drag coefficient of just 0.23 — the lowest ever achieved by an Audi production model powered by an internal combustion engine. It exemplifies Audi’s advancement in aerodynamics, combining subtle design refinements with high-performance engineering to enhance both efficiency and performance.

Underpinning the new A6 is a range of modern petrol and diesel powertrains, all integrated with the brand’s MHEV plus mild-hybrid technology. This system supports the combustion engine with electric assistance, allowing smoother acceleration, lower emissions, and greater fuel efficiency. It also enables limited electric-only driving in low-speed urban conditions and while coasting. The line-up includes a 2.0-litre TDI four-cylinder engine producing 204PS, and a 3.0-litre TFSI six-cylinder delivering 367PS. Both benefit from the electrified system’s additional torque of up to 230Nm and a power boost of up to 24PS during overtaking or take-off, while recuperation during deceleration can reach up to 25 kW.

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BMW HypersonX: A Sonic Revolution for the Neue Klasse Era

As BMW opens a new chapter in 2025 with its all-electric Neue Klasse lineup, it is redefining not only the way its vehicles drive but also how they sound and feel. At the heart of this sensory transformation is HypersonX—a groundbreaking soundscape developed by the BMW Group Sound Design Studio, which introduces an emotional layer of interaction between driver and vehicle.

HypersonX isn’t just a collection of futuristic tones—it’s a multi-dimensional, immersive audio experience designed specifically for the Neue Klasse models. It comprises 43 curated sound signals, along with specially developed drive sounds tailored to both Personal Mode and Sport Mode. These modes shift the emotional tone inside the cabin, delivering everything from soothing naturalistic sound cues to adrenaline-pumping acceleration notes that evoke speed and power.

This dynamic sound adaptation is enabled by major technological leaps made possible by the Neue Klasse platform. At the core lies BMW Operating System X and an all-new audio control unit, creating the conditions for richer sound reproduction, expanded dynamic range, and spatial modulation that lets the driver “travel” through layers of sound during different phases of acceleration.

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Volkswagen Introduces PAC-MAN Championship Edition to In-Car Gaming Experience

Volkswagen is further enhancing its digital offerings with the integration of the PAC-MAN Championship Edition into its AirConsole in-car gaming platform. Available as an optional feature in selected models, the game can now be played on the infotainment system when the vehicle is stationary, with smartphones serving as controllers.

Volkswagen becomes the first carmaker to dynamically integrate the classic game with vehicle-specific features, including ambient background lighting and, in compatible ID. models, the ID. Light interface. This immersive enhancement allows the interior lighting to respond in real-time to game progress and player interactions, creating a more engaging and interactive gaming experience within the cabin.

The PAC-MAN Championship Edition retains the core mechanics that made the original 1980s arcade game iconic. Players navigate PAC-MAN through a maze, consuming dots while avoiding capture by ghosts. Once a maze is cleared, the player advances to the next level. The Volkswagen edition introduces several new visual elements and in-game rewards. Players can earn additional points by interacting with silhouettes of legendary Volkswagen vehicles such as the Beetle, VW Bus, and the Golf IV R32, as well as brand identifiers like GTI, GTX, and R. Power pellets now appear in the form of the Volkswagen brand logo, offering new ways to combat the Ghost Gang.

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EU Proposal to Classify Carbon Fibre as Hazardous Threatens Automotive and Aerospace Industries

A new legislative proposal from the European Parliament has sent ripples through the global automotive and aerospace sectors, as it aims to designate carbon fibre as a hazardous material under European Union law. The move, if approved, would make the EU the first government entity worldwide to apply such a classification to the lightweight composite, widely prized for its strength and durability.

The proposed amendment forms part of the revised End of Life Vehicles (ELV) Directive, which governs the recycling and disposal of vehicles within the EU. Lawmakers have expressed concern that carbon fibre filaments may become airborne during disposal or recycling processes and pose risks to human health upon skin contact. As a result, the material could soon join the EU’s restricted substances list—currently comprising lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium—materials already subject to strict limitations in manufacturing.

Should the European Parliament adopt the proposal, restrictions on the use of carbon fibre would begin to take effect in 2029, prompting a phased reduction across industries. Automotive manufacturers alone account for an estimated 20 percent of the global demand for carbon fibre, highlighting the widespread implications of the amendment.

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MG CyberX SUV Teased Ahead of Shanghai Debut

MG has officially previewed its next major electric vehicle offering, the CyberX SUV, marking the second addition to its growing Cyber sub-brand. Building on the momentum of last year’s Cyberster electric roadster, the CyberX introduces a bold, rugged design and a high-tech platform aimed at younger, lifestyle-focused buyers.

The upcoming CyberX is set to be unveiled at the Shanghai Motor Show, where it will take centre stage as MG’s latest electric SUV. Early teaser images reveal a boxier, more upright silhouette than seen on MG’s current SUV range, with styling that suggests an emphasis on adventure and urban versatility. Notably, the vehicle showcases illuminated MG badges and full-width LED light bars at both the front and rear, giving it a distinctly futuristic visual identity.

Designed to compete with rivals such as the Smart #5, the CyberX also underlines MG’s broader global ambitions. While the Cyber sub-brand is currently focused on the Chinese market, the company has already launched the Cyberster in the UK and is expected to roll out more Cyber-branded vehicles internationally in the near future.

Beneath the surface, the CyberX is one of the first models to ride on SAIC Motor’s new E3 electric platform, a next-generation, all-electric architecture engineered to support a variety of vehicle sizes and formats—from compact cars to large SUVs and sports cars. This platform incorporates CTB (cell-to-body) construction, a system that integrates the battery pack directly into the vehicle’s body structure. This approach enhances rigidity, reduces weight, and improves energy efficiency.

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2025 Toyota GR Yaris Gets Aero Boost, Performance Upgrades, and New Tech — Japan Only for Now

The Toyota GR Yaris has received a comprehensive round of updates for 2025, as the Japanese carmaker continues to refine its rally-bred hot hatch five years after its original debut. Following the early 2024 facelift, this latest evolution introduces a host of aerodynamic enhancements, mechanical refinements, and expanded safety features aimed at reinforcing the model’s status as a standout in the performance hatchback segment.

The most striking addition is a newly developed rear wing, which has been designed to improve high-speed stability and enhance braking performance. Adjustable by the driver, the wing forms part of a six-piece body kit that has been specifically engineered for track-day usage. Toyota has placed significant emphasis on improving aerodynamics across the car, drawing inspiration from the limited-run GRMN edition. A new bonnet, made from aluminium rather than the carbon fibre of the GRMN version, now features a centrally mounted air duct to assist with cooling the engine more effectively.

Further aerodynamic developments include new air ducts located behind the front wheels, which are intended to improve stability during high-speed cornering, while additional ducts have been integrated into the corners of the rear bumper to help reduce aerodynamic drag. A redesigned front spoiler lip and an adapted fuel tank undercover, derived from the GR Yaris racing car used in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series, also form part of the performance-oriented upgrade.

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BMW Introduces ‘Seal & Drive’ Tyre Kit — A Smart Fix for Flats

BMW has unveiled an innovative new gadget that could be a game-changer for drivers dealing with unexpected flat tyres. Known as the Seal & Drive Tyre Kit, this clever device simplifies the tyre repair process and minimises the stress of roadside emergencies.

Designed for ease and safety, the Seal & Drive kit can be used by anyone—no mechanical experience required. Stored in the trunk, it attaches magnetically to your wheel and begins working with minimal input. Here’s how it works:

Unscrew your valve stem cap, and attach the kit’s hose to the valve.
Magnetically align the device’s five prongs with your wheel’s lug holes—it locks in place securely.
Press the power button, and the system starts inflating your tyre with both air and a puncture-sealing fluid.

Once the tyre pressure hits at least 20 psi, you’re free to drive away with the device still attached. It continues to pump air and sealant as you drive, ensuring your tyre maintains a safe pressure level until you reach help.

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Mazda Unveils EZ-60 Electric SUV, Expands Global EV Strategy with Changan Partnership

Mazda is accelerating its electrification ambitions through its deepening collaboration with Chinese automaker Changan. The latest result of this strategic partnership is the unveiling of the EZ-60, a fully electric SUV that was recently revealed on the Chinese social media platform Weibo. The new model follows the launch of the EZ-6 sedan and is widely expected to be marketed outside of China under the name CX-6e.

The EZ-60 is effectively a production version of the Arata concept, and signals Mazda’s renewed effort to compete in the burgeoning electric SUV space—a segment where the brand’s previous entry, the MX-30, failed to gain significant traction. The SUV boasts a sharp and modern exterior design, notably featuring flying buttresses—an unusual touch for this type of vehicle. Also present are side cameras replacing traditional mirrors, a technology that has been permitted on Chinese production cars for around two years.

Built under the Changan-Mazda joint venture—a 50:50 partnership established more than a decade ago—the EZ-60 shares its underpinnings with the Deepal S07, an electric SUV from Changan’s dedicated EV subsidiary, Deepal. This suggests that the EZ-60 will be offered in two versions: a fully electric variant and a range-extending model that integrates a 1.5-litre petrol engine. However, it remains uncertain whether the latter configuration will be offered in European markets. Mazda currently offers the EZ-6 sedan solely as a battery-electric vehicle in regions outside China.

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Stellantis Faces Crisis as Tariffs Hit Alfa Romeo and Maserati Hard

Stellantis is in troubled waters. After a year marked by declining sales and falling revenue, the company is now grappling with the abrupt resignation of CEO Carlos Tavares. 2024 was meant to be a rebuilding year, but with steep U.S. tariffs now firmly in place under former President Trump’s renewed policies, things could soon spiral further out of control.

Among the most vulnerable brands under Stellantis are Alfa Romeo and Maserati, both of which are struggling to survive in a hostile market. In response to the escalating crisis, Stellantis has reportedly brought in management consulting giant McKinsey & Company to assess the situation, with a specific focus on the impact of tariffs.

A Stellantis spokesperson told Automotive News Europe that McKinsey was “asked to provide its considerations” for the two marques, though no further details were provided. Still, the move suggests that drastic changes may be on the horizon.

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Ferrari Set to Revive Gated Manual Transmission After Over a Decade

Ferrari is preparing to bring back the legendary gated manual gearbox, marking a major shift in its performance philosophy after more than ten years of focusing purely on speed and technology.

For years, Ferrari resisted reintroducing manual transmissions, favouring dual-clutch gearboxes that deliver lightning-fast shifts and maximum performance. But now, the company says it has reached the limits of what today’s technology — and human bodies — can handle.

Gianmaria Fulgenzi, Ferrari’s Head of Product Development, explained that performance levels have peaked. With cars like the SF90 XX hitting 0–100 km/h in just 2.4 seconds, further gains in acceleration are becoming less meaningful — especially for rear-wheel-drive models like the 296 GTB, which already produce over 800hp.

Ferrari has found that increasing power beyond 900hp presents serious challenges. Not only do tyres and chassis struggle to keep up, but the forces placed on drivers are so intense that it would require Formula 1-level physical training just to enjoy the car. Fulgenzi said this isn’t realistic or desirable for most Ferrari owners.

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Global News

Audi Introduces All-New A6 Sedan with Benchmark Aerodynamics and Refined Driving Dynamics

BMW HypersonX: A Sonic Revolution for the Neue Klasse Era

Volkswagen Introduces PAC-MAN Championship Edition to In-Car Gaming Experience

EU Proposal to Classify Carbon Fibre as Hazardous Threatens Automotive and Aerospace Industries

MG CyberX SUV Teased Ahead of Shanghai Debut

2025 Toyota GR Yaris Gets Aero Boost, Performance Upgrades, and New Tech — Japan Only for Now

BMW Introduces ‘Seal & Drive’ Tyre Kit — A Smart Fix for Flats

Mazda Unveils EZ-60 Electric SUV, Expands Global EV Strategy with Changan Partnership

Stellantis Faces Crisis as Tariffs Hit Alfa Romeo and Maserati Hard

Ferrari Set to Revive Gated Manual Transmission After Over a Decade

Volvo EX90 Named 2024 World Luxury Car of the Year Following Malaysian Debut

Hyundai Unveils Next-Generation Hybrid Powertrain with Blend of Performance and Efficiency

Kia Reveals 2026 K4 Hatchback with Sleek Design and Urban Agility at New York Show

Porsche 911 GT3 Secures Nürburgring Record for Fastest Manual Production Car

Volvo Unveils Electrified New S90 Sedan with Enhanced Comfort, Safety and Technology

Get Lost Transforms Iconic Lotus Elise S1 into Rally-Ready Project Safari

Hennessey Unveils Venom F5 Evolution: 2,031bhp, 0-322km/h in 10.3 Seconds!

GAC Honda Launches P7 All-Electric SUV in China — First Model on Dedicated “Architecture W” Platform

Kia and Innocean Berlin Launch ‘Soundscapes’ to Redefine the Road Trip Experience

Mazda’s Next-Generation MX-5 to Remain Light, Manual, and Naturally Aspirated

Archive

Volkswagen Introduces PAC-MAN Championship Edition to In-Car Gaming Experience

Porsche Malaysia Celebrates 15th Anniversary with Launch of New 911 Carrera and Carrera 4 GTS

JPJ Orders Recall of Over 41,000 Vehicles from Honda, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz Over Safety Concerns

Exclusive Mazda MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition Launched in Malaysia – RM315k

Belfield Tunnel Officially Opens, Enhancing Access to Merdeka 118 and Easing City Traffic

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