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Hold onto your seats because Lexus is taking the IS500 Ultimate Edition to new… heights. Introducing the Climax Edition, a name that’s either a bold JDM homage or proof that car marketers know exactly what they’re doing.

Yes, you read that right, your luxury sports sedan now comes with a badge that’ll make you giggle like a teenager every time you glance at the centre console. Is it a cheeky nod to performance ecstasy? Or did someone at Lexus just have a really good day at work? Either way, this isn’t just a car—it’s a mood. And if you forget, don’t worry: the name’s plastered right in the digital cluster, because nothing says ‘premium experience’ like a not-so-subtle double entendre.

With the model having remained largely unchanged for over a decade, the Climax Edition arrives as a right-hand-drive version of the previously released IS500 Ultimate Edition, aimed exclusively at the Japanese market.

Despite its unusual name, the Climax Edition represents a celebration of what enthusiasts value most in the IS500—its raw, undiluted performance. The sedan retains its naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 engine, a rarity in today’s era of downsized and turbocharged powertrains. The 2UR-GSE engine delivers 472hp and 535Nm of torque to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, preserving the engaging driving dynamics that have defined the IS lineage.

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Land Rover has introduced a new chapter in its legacy of exploration with the debut of the 2026 Defender Trophy Edition, an expedition-ready variant of the Defender 110 SUV that celebrates the British marque’s historic ties to global off-road challenges. Designed to meet the demands of serious adventurers, the latest Trophy Edition is inspired by the brand’s storied past while looking firmly to the future of purposeful travel and environmental stewardship.

Available in two classic colour finishes—Deep Sandglow Yellow and Keswick Green—the Defender Trophy Edition evokes the aesthetics of vintage Land Rover expeditions. This distinctive model comes equipped with a suite of expedition-specific enhancements, establishing it as a formidable companion for off-road exploration.

Under the bonnet lies the 3.0-litre inline-six turbo-diesel engine, producing 346hp and incorporating mild-hybrid technology. The vehicle rides on gloss black 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres, while exterior additions such as gloss black wheel arch protection, a dark rear scuff plate and a black front undershield contribute both to aesthetics and functionality.

Subtle but telling design flourishes mark the Trophy Edition’s unique identity. Trophy decals adorn the bonnet and C-pillars, with dedicated rear badging completing the exterior branding. The interior features illuminated ‘Trophy’ treadplates and Ebony Windsor leather seats, adding a refined touch. A colour-coordinated cross-car beam, finished with laser-etched Trophy badging on the end caps, reinforces the edition’s bespoke character.

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Volkswagen has marked half a century of GTI heritage with the launch of the Golf GTI EDITION 50, the most powerful and track-focused iteration of the legendary hot hatch to date. Developed with precision engineering and motorsport pedigree, this anniversary model promises to deliver uncompromised performance both on the road and the racetrack.

At the heart of the EDITION 50 lies a reworked 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, derived from the Golf GTI Clubsport. Volkswagen’s engine team has pushed its performance envelope even further, increasing output to 325PS and 420Nm of torque. These figures significantly surpass the standard Golf GTI’s 265PS and 370Nm, and even outstrip the Clubsport’s 300PS and 400Nm, cementing the EDITION 50’s position as the pinnacle of the GTI lineup.

To harness this additional power, the chassis has undergone extensive tuning. The model features a MacPherson front axle and a four-link rear suspension setup, and sits 15 mm lower than the standard GTI. A further 5 mm drop is offered with the optional Performance Package, which introduces stiffer springs, increasing the natural frequency at both axles by approximately 20 per cent. This upgrade enhances body control, sharpens handling, and reduces roll and pitch, resulting in a much more connected driving experience.

The Performance Package also equips the EDITION 50 with 235-sized Bridgestone Potenza Race semi-slick tyres, newly developed for this application. These are mounted on 19-inch forged Warmenau wheels, each weighing just 8 kg—around 3 kg lighter than the standard rims. The tyres themselves are 1.1 kg lighter apiece, providing superior grip while reducing rotational mass. Additionally, a titanium Akrapovič R-Performance exhaust system contributes to a weight saving of 11 kg, while adding an aggressive acoustic edge to the car’s performance credentials.

The dynamic potential of the Golf GTI EDITION 50 was vividly demonstrated by Volkswagen test and development driver Benjamin Leuchter, who set a lap time of 7 minutes and 46.13 seconds around the Nürburgring Nordschleife in April 2025. This makes it the fastest production Golf ever to lap the 20.8-kilometre ‘Green Hell’, confirming its credentials as a true track weapon.

Inside, the EDITION 50 continues the GTI’s tradition of blending sportiness with refinement. The cabin features check-patterned sports seats trimmed with Racing Green highlights and synthetic velour, accented by red seat belts. A newly designed multifunction leather sports steering wheel, bearing the GTI 50 insignia and integrated with shift paddles for the seven-speed DSG, serves as the tactile link between driver and machine.

The car’s distinctive styling extends to the exterior. GTI 50 badges appear on the roof spoiler and interior mirror housings, while black-painted mirror caps, black tailpipe trims, and a black roof create a striking contrast. A side stripe running along the lower body panels, fading from black to Tornado Red, reinforces the car’s aggressive presence.

Buyers can choose from five paint finishes, including Pure White, Moonstone Grey, and Grenadilla Black Metallic. Two colours are exclusive to the anniversary edition: Dark Moss Green Metallic and Tornado Red—the latter a nod to Volkswagen’s GTI legacy, having adorned high-performance models since the mid-1980s, including the Golf II GTI 16V and Golf VII GTI TCR.

The Golf GTI EDITION 50 stands as a bold celebration of the nameplate’s 50-year journey—refined, powerful, and engineered with the spirit of the racetrack.

Volkswagen’s mobility division, MOIA, has officially revealed the production version of its much-anticipated autonomous electric van, the ID. Buzz AD. The vehicle represents a pivotal step in Volkswagen’s efforts to redefine future mobility solutions, targeting commercial fleets and transport operators in both Europe and the United States.

The unveiling of the ID. Buzz AD comes amid intensified competition in the autonomous vehicle sector, just days after Tesla announced it would begin trial operations of its Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, on 22 June. While Tesla’s approach centres on passenger ride-hailing services, Volkswagen is carving a distinct path by focusing on corporate clients and mobility service providers.

Engineered to meet Level 4 autonomous driving standards, the ID. Buzz AD has been purpose-built for mobility service deployment. The design features a stretched wheelbase and an elevated roof to maximise cabin space and passenger comfort. Entry into the vehicle is facilitated via smartphone, suggesting a seamless app-based access system.

Inside, the cabin is tailored for shared travel, offering four spacious passenger seats, wood-style flooring, and large grab handles for ease of movement. Functional controls, including SOS, Support, and Start/Stop buttons, are integrated for added safety and convenience. MOIA has also incorporated onboard artificial intelligence, designed to maintain passenger comfort while ensuring operational safety.

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Chery has officially unveiled the 2026 Tiggo 7 Sport and Tiggo 7 Plus SUVs in the Chinese market, introducing refreshed styling, enhanced features, and competitive pricing to appeal to budget-focused consumers. The new Tiggo 7 Sport carries a starting price of 87,900 yuan (around RM57,400), while the Tiggo 7 Plus is offered from 91,900 yuan (around RM60,100).

The Tiggo 7 Sport debuts with a newly introduced 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 154hp and 230Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. This joins the previously available 1.6T engine variant, delivering 194hp and 290Nm via a 7-speed DCT. Marketed as the sportier, more youthful counterpart to the Tiggo 7 Plus, the Sport version is designed to appeal to style-conscious, performance-leaning buyers.

From a design perspective, the Tiggo 7 Sport retains signature Chery elements such as the split LED headlight configuration, a large trapezoidal mesh grille, floating roof design, and hidden door handles. Riding on 18-inch alloy wheels, it is available in four paint options: Glacier Silver, Cangyan Grey, Graphite Black, and Pearl White.

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Chery has unveiled the second phase of its global Chery Safety Challenge campaign in Indonesia, with a strong focus on battery safety under high-humidity conditions. The initiative forms part of the brand’s ongoing efforts to prove the durability and reliability of its electrified vehicles through rigorous, real-world testing across diverse climates.

Indonesia’s tropical and moisture-heavy environment has been selected as the latest proving ground for Chery’s flagship plug-in hybrid SUV, the TIGGO 8 PRO CSH. The vehicle, already subjected to a gruelling 48-hour stress test involving a seven-car vertical stack in Wuhu, China, will now face another extreme scenario — operating in one of the world’s most humid climates. The latest challenge aims to underscore the robustness of Chery’s battery systems when exposed to prolonged damp conditions, a key concern for consumers in Southeast Asia.

This testing programme follows a series of extreme safety assessments conducted in China, including spiral rollovers and high-impact dual-vehicle collisions. By taking its battery safety campaign to international terrain, Chery is reinforcing its dedication to product development that adapts to the specific demands of each market. The campaign forms a core element of Chery’s global strategy, aptly titled “In Somewhere, For Somewhere”, which prioritises localisation in both vehicle design and validation.

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Ferrari’s much-anticipated push towards full electrification has encountered a notable setback, with plans for its second fully electric vehicle now postponed until at least 2028. Initially scheduled for launch by the end of 2026, the project has been delayed by two years, according to sources with direct knowledge of the matter.

Two insiders speaking to Reuters revealed that the decision stems from underwhelming market demand, even among the brand’s typically loyal and affluent clientele. Ferrari had intended to follow its first electric model with a second in quick succession as part of a broader electrification strategy. However, revised internal projections have forced the Italian marque to reassess the viability of this approach.

The sources pointed to a significant disconnect between expectations and current consumer appetite, with one noting that sustainable demand for high-performance EVs is virtually non-existent at present. While Ferrari remains confident in the long-term prospects of electric mobility, it has become evident that the market is not yet ready to fully embrace electric supercars at a scale that would ensure profitability.

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The Thai government has given the green light to an ambitious US$1.2 billion proposal to host a Formula One Grand Prix on the streets of Bangkok, targeting a debut in 2028. The approval was announced by cabinet officials following a meeting that outlined Thailand’s intent to secure a multi-year deal to stage the race annually from 2028 through to 2032.

Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub confirmed that preparations are already underway, and the country anticipates hosting a top-tier global motorsport event within the next few years—an achievement he described as previously unthinkable for Thailand.

Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong stated that the proposed investment, valued at approximately ฿40 billion (US$1.23 billion), is seen as a strategic move to boost the tourism sector, which remains a vital pillar of the Thai economy.

The initiative follows a meeting in March between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Formula One CEO Stefano Domenicali, during which the Prime Minister committed to commissioning a detailed feasibility study. The study will explore the logistical and infrastructural requirements for transforming Bangkok into a viable street circuit capable of meeting FIA standards.

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In celebration of its motorsport heritage and future electrification, Honda has announced its display lineup for the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2025, scheduled from 10–13 July on the Duke of Richmond’s famed estate.

Honouring its rich racing legacy, Honda will mark the 60th anniversary of its maiden Formula One victory with a showcase spanning its historic and contemporary engineering achievements. Visitors will witness a broad spectrum of vehicles—from motorcycles and F1 cars to its next-gen electric concepts—underscoring the manufacturer’s enduring “Challenging Spirit”.

At the heart of Honda’s exhibition stands the European premiere of the 0 SUV prototype, initially unveiled at CES 2025. This all-new SUV, scheduled for global release in 2026, will stand alongside the global debut of Honda’s Super EV Concept: a compact, A-segment electric vehicle that promises dynamic driving thrills coupled with practical usability. A camouflaged test mule has already been observed running on UK roads ahead of its hill-climb performance.

Super EV

Also on show will be concept motorcycles introduced at EICMA 2024, including the V3-engined prototype with an electric compressor, the EV Fun Concept slated for a 2025 launch, and an Urban EV Concept designed as a glimpse into future city mobility.

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Audi has unveiled the third-generation Q3, a bold evolution of its compact luxury SUV, packed with advanced technology, refreshed styling, and electrified powertrains. Positioned as a digital companion, the new Q3 aims to enhance everyday driving through enhanced comfort, safety, and performance.

The exterior design exudes a confident, emotive aesthetic. A revamped Singleframe grille and narrow, aerodynamically integrated headlights give the vehicle a purposeful front-end appearance. A striking shoulder line slices along the side, sculpting the bodywork into distinct shadow and light elements. At the rear, optional digital OLED tail-lights—complemented by a continuous LED strip and illuminated rings—mark a first for Audi’s compact-class vehicles.

The Q3 leads the way technologically with new digital Matrix LED headlights, now featuring micro‑LED modules that deliver sharper, more precise lighting. Each headlight incorporates 23 individually controllable daytime-running segments, working seamlessly with the vehicle’s driver-assistance systems. This lighting configuration improves visibility and projects a distinctive visual signature on the road.

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