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The Testarossa name is back, and it’s making a return in the most dramatic way possible. Nearly three decades after the last 512M rolled off the production line in the mid-1990s, Ferrari has unveiled the brand-new 849 Testarossa—a hybrid hypercar that reimagines one of the marque’s most legendary models for the modern era.

First introduced in 1984 as the successor to the Berlinetta Boxer, the original Testarossa became a global sensation. Its name itself, drawn from Ferrari’s 1950s Testa Rossa race cars, cemented its place in the brand’s rich history.

With more than a decade of production and a cult following that continues today, the Testarossa remains one of the most iconic Ferraris ever built. Now, the Prancing Horse is writing a new chapter for the badge with a car that blends electrification and raw combustion power like never before.

At the core of the new 849 is an upgraded version of Ferrari’s F154 twin-turbo V8. Strengthened internals and larger turbos allow the petrol engine to produce 818hp on its own. But that’s only part of the story. Three electric motors—two mounted at the front and one at the rear—add another 216hp, creating a combined system output of 1,036hp.

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Lexus has officially unveiled the new IS, which made its world premiere on September 9 and is set to hit showrooms in early 2026 across various markets. This marks the next chapter for a model that has defined the compact FR sports sedan segment for over 25 years.

First introduced in 1999, the IS was built around one idea – driving enjoyment. Across three generations, it has earned a reputation for sharp handling, bold styling, and the unmistakable “Lexus Driving Signature.” With more than 1.3 million units sold in 40 countries since launch, it remains one of the brand’s most important nameplates, and Lexus is making sure the new model stays true to its roots while adding plenty of fresh touches.

The 2026 IS will be available in two variants: the IS 300h and IS 350. Development centred on the theme of “refinement in performance and design,” which essentially means Lexus wanted to sharpen its handling while keeping the design aggressive and sporty.

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Rimac Technology has revealed its latest range of batteries, motors, and electronic systems at the IAA Mobility 2025 show in Munich. The Croatian company, already working with brands like BMW, Porsche, and CEER Motors, is aiming to deliver faster, safer, and more efficient electric vehicle technology — and in much bigger numbers than before.

On the battery side, Rimac introduced three new platforms. The first is a solid-state battery, developed with ProLogium and Mitsubishi Chemical Group, which promises lighter weight, higher safety, and better energy storage. The second is the Evo platform, using 46XX Gen2 cells and advanced cooling, designed for strong performance and daily use. The third, called Hybrid Technology, offers flexible setups for both hybrid and fully electric cars.

Rimac also launched new eAxles – small but powerful electric drive units. The SINTEG 300 and 550 can produce up to 360 kW and 6,250 Nm of torque in very compact sizes, suitable for anything from hot hatches to SUVs. Another highlight is the High Torque XXL Axle, set for production in 2026, delivering more than 11,000 Nm of axle torque with over 95% efficiency.

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Volkswagen has pulled the wraps off its latest electric study, the ID. CROSS Concept, a compact SUV that points directly to an upcoming production model due in the summer of 2026.

This newcomer will expand VW’s growing family of smaller, more affordable EVs, following on from the ID.2 all, the ID. GTI and the ID. EVERY1 concepts.

Sized almost identically to the current T-Cross, the ID. CROSS measures 4,161 mm in length and 1,839 mm in width, yet it has been designed to offer generous space inside. The boot alone provides 450 litres of storage, complemented by an additional 25 litres under the bonnet.

That makes it a practical choice not only for city commutes but also for family outings, striking a balance between compact dimensions and everyday usability.

The concept makes a striking first impression with its bright Urban Jungle green paintwork, sitting on bold 21-inch Balboa alloy wheels wrapped in bespoke Goodyear tyres.

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The Mercedes-Benz GLC has long been one of the brand’s best-selling SUVs, a go-to choice for those who want something more polished. Now, it steps into a new chapter with the introduction of the fully electric GLC with EQ Technology.

This latest addition marks the first time the GLC has been offered as a pure EV in the US market, setting it up against serious competition such as the Audi Q6, Porsche Macan Electric, and BMW’s recently revealed iX3.

Powering the new GLC is a 94.0 kWh lithium-ion battery, which in its most powerful form produces up to 483hp—slightly edging past the iX3’s 463hp. It’s not just about straight-line power either; Mercedes has ensured that the SUV delivers practicality, with a towing capacity of 2,400kg when fitted with the optional tow hitch.

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The Porsche 911 Turbo S has never been short of praise. Its predecessor was already regarded as the ultimate all-rounder – blistering performance mixed with everyday comfort, long-distance capability and that touch of exclusivity Porsche owners love. Now, the latest version takes things to a whole new level, delivering more power, sharper dynamics, smarter aerodynamics and an even more premium finish.

At the heart of it all is a brand-new T-Hybrid powertrain producing a staggering 711PS and 800Nm of torque, making this the most powerful production 911 ever built. Power is available across a wide rev range, with full output kicking in between 6,500 and 7,000 rpm.

The system uses Porsche’s 400V lightweight hybrid technology and two electric turbochargers – a step up from the single eTurbo setup that debuted in the Carrera GTS. This not only boosts outright performance but also sharpens throttle response, eliminating the lag often associated with turbocharged engines.

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The Honda Prelude may have only just made its return, but Mugen is wasting no time in preparing upgrades for the hybrid coupe. The renowned Honda tuning house has confirmed that a full body kit and performance package are already in the pipeline, with parts expected to be available in 2026.

The package will include a carbon-fibre splitter, side skirts, diffuser and rear spoiler, complemented by a new sports exhaust. These will join a number of accessories already offered by Mugen for the Prelude, ranging from carbon-fibre door mirror caps to a set of 19-inch forged BBS wheels. Other highlights include a high-performance oil filter element and specially developed performance dampers, created in collaboration with Yamaha, designed to minimise chassis flex with units mounted at the front and rear.

For enthusiasts who want to personalise their cars further, Mugen will also provide a wide range of cosmetic and functional touches. These include unique oil-filler and radiator caps, sill plates, lug nuts, floor mats, decals and even a fabric cover for the brake-fluid reservoir. While these items may not drastically alter the Prelude’s driving experience, they add to the appeal for fans who want to enhance the look and feel of their coupe.

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BMW has officially revived the “Neue Klasse” nameplate with the debut of the iX3 at the Munich Motor Show, marking one of the brand’s most significant steps forward in decades. The Neue Klasse label first rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s with models such as the 1500 sedan and the iconic 2002, which cemented BMW’s identity as a maker of dynamic, driver-focused cars. Now, the Bavarian automaker is using that same heritage to introduce its next generation of fully electric vehicles.

The iX3 is the first production model to be built on BMW’s all-new Neue Klasse EV platform. Unlike the company’s current approach—where petrol and electric variants share the same architecture as seen in the 4, 5, and 7 Series—the iX3 is a ground-up EV. It will sit alongside the existing combustion-powered X3 but serve as the flagship of BMW’s electrification strategy.

BMW is positioning the iX3 as a game-changer. The range-topping iX3 50 xDrive will offer up to 644km of driving range, powered by dual electric motors delivering 463hp and 641Nm of torque.

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Audi has unveiled the Concept C, a study that signals a bold step forward in the brand’s design language while drawing on elements of its storied past. The two-seat sports car embodies what Audi calls “athletic minimalism”, a philosophy that relies on clean, precise surfaces intersected by a single defining line to create tension, form and purpose.

At the front, the Concept C introduces a new vertical frame that serves as the structural core of the vehicle. This upright element, inspired by the Auto Union Type C of 1936 and the third-generation Audi A6 of 2004, provides a sense of presence and identity while integrating the Audi rings and advanced lighting technology.

A pronounced shoulder line flows from this feature to define the car’s volume, while the cabin itself is pushed rearward to emphasise the central battery layout that underpins its proportions. For the first time on an Audi roadster, an electrically retractable hardtop is employed, using two roof sections that allow the car to maintain its sculpted monolithic profile with the option of open-top driving. The rear is marked by clean surfacing and horizontal slats that accentuate its sporty stance.

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Smart is preparing to bring back one of its most recognisable models with a modern twist. The brand, now jointly owned by Geely and Mercedes-Benz, has confirmed plans to launch the new Smart #2 by the end of 2026 in China, with Europe also identified as a key market.

The upcoming model will be a two-door, two-seat hatchback designed specifically for urban mobility, positioning itself as the long-awaited successor to the legendary Smart ForTwo. Measuring close to the size of its predecessor, the third-generation ForTwo, the #2 is expected to retain compact proportions at around 2,695 mm in length, 1,663 mm in width, 1,555 mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 1,873 mm.

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