All posts by Francis Mitterrand

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2026 XM Label: BMW High-Performance SUV Goes All-In on Exclusivity

June 12, 2025 Francis Mitterrand Leave a comment

BMW is shaking things up for the next model year with a major overhaul to its flagship performance SUV, the XM. The German automaker is dropping the standard trim altogether, making the high-performance XM Label—formerly known as the Label Red—the only available variant in the lineup.

This move solidifies BMW’s focus on top-tier electrified performance, as the 2026 XM Label packs the same potent 738-horsepower hybrid drivetrain. At its core is a twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 577 hp, mated to an electric motor sandwiched between the engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission. Together, they produce a massive 738 pound-feet of torque, delivered to all four wheels through BMW’s xDrive system.

Performance remains unchanged from the 2025 model, with BMW quoting a 0–60 mph sprint in 3.6 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155 mph—or 175 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package.

While the drivetrain remains the same—including the 19.2-kWh lithium-ion battery offering up to 30 miles of electric-only range—BMW has upgraded the XM’s onboard charger. Charging speed has improved from 7.4 kW to 11 kW, which should trim down the previous charge time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, although BMW has not provided new estimates.

In terms of design, the 2026 XM Label dials back some of the flashier elements that previously defined the Label Red trim. The bold red exterior trim accents are mostly gone, replaced with subtler red badges, giving the SUV a more refined aesthetic. In their place, BMW introduces several new exterior paint options, including the striking Individual Frozen Tanzanite Blue Metallic. Buyers can also choose between standard 23-inch black wheels or optional 22-inch alloys at no extra cost.

Inside, the XM Label gets a luxurious refresh with three new Merino leather interior themes:

Individual Night Blue with Vintage Coffee accents
Individual Black with Vintage Coffee accents
Individual Silverstone with black accents

The 2026 XM Label will make its official debut on Saturday, June 14, at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France—a fitting stage for BMW’s performance flagship. Production will begin in August at BMW’s Spartanburg, South Carolina plant.

BMW has not yet released pricing for the 2026 model, but it is expected to carry a slightly higher MSRP than the outgoing version, which started at $187,875 including destination. With its upgraded features and singular focus on performance luxury, the new XM Label aims to redefine BMW’s electrified M strategy—exclusively, and unapologetically.

Source: BMW

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2026 XM Label: BMW High-Performance SUV Goes All-In on Exclusivity

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Maserati’s Next Move: Is the MC25 the Future of Italian Speed?

June 12, 2025 Francis Mitterrand Leave a comment

It’s hard to believe that the Maserati MC20—hailed as the brand’s triumphant return to the supercar world—has now been on the road for five years. Unveiled in September 2020, the MC20 marked a new chapter for the Italian marque. Now, Maserati may be preparing to turn the page once again.

A recent trademark filing with the United States Patent and Trademark Office has sparked speculation that a successor could be on the horizon. Maserati submitted an application for the name “MC25,” a designation that aligns seamlessly with its current naming convention. The move has left enthusiasts and industry insiders wondering whether a next-generation supercar is closer than expected.

While no official announcements have been made, the timing is curious. A 2025 debut for a model named MC25 would seem logical, especially given the typical five-year life cycle of modern performance cars. However, Maserati faces a complex and challenging backdrop as it contemplates its future.

The brand’s recent performance in the market has been sobering. Sales dropped a staggering 57% from 26,600 units in 2023 to just 11,300 in 2024. This steep decline follows a broader shake-up of Maserati’s product line. In recent years, the company has phased out key models such as the Levante SUV and the Ghibli sedan—vehicles that once carried much of the brand’s commercial weight. Their replacements are still in the pipeline, leaving Maserati in a precarious transitional phase.

Last year, rumors swirled about a possible sell-off of the brand by parent company Stellantis, which Maserati was quick to quash. In April 2025, Stellantis reaffirmed its commitment to Maserati, insisting the brand was not for sale, despite growing concerns over its long-term viability.

Given these challenges, a full-blown new supercar may be financially out of reach. However, Maserati could pursue a more strategic update of the MC20, introducing a refreshed model under the MC25 name. The brand hinted at such possibilities in 2023 with the unveiling of the MCXtrema—a track-only evolution of the MC20 featuring a 730-horsepower version of the Nettuno 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine.

This proof of concept demonstrated Maserati’s continued prowess in performance engineering, suggesting that a road-legal MC25 could borrow heavily from the MCXtrema’s innovations. New styling, aerodynamic tweaks, and an uprated powertrain could be enough to rekindle interest and sustain the supercar line during uncertain times.

For now, Maserati fans will have to remain patient. The company has not confirmed any plans for an MC20 successor, and its current focus appears to be on stabilizing its business amid a rapidly evolving automotive industry. But with the MC25 name officially registered, it’s clear that something is brewing in Modena. Whether it’s a mild refresh or an all-new machine, the next chapter in Maserati’s supercar story might be closer than we think.

Source: CarBuzz

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Kia Unveils Redesigned Sportage for European Market with Sleek Upgrades and New Tech

June 12, 2025 Francis Mitterrand Leave a comment

After making its debut earlier this year in North America and Australia, the refreshed Kia Sportage is now officially headed to European shores. The South Korean automaker has lifted the curtain on the updated European-spec model, featuring subtle design enhancements and upgraded technology, while maintaining the shorter wheelbase unique to the Old Continent.

Although first introduced globally late last year, the European variant of Kia’s bestselling SUV remains largely consistent with the global version—sharing its bold new look and cutting-edge features, albeit with dimensions tailored for tighter European roads.

Sharper Looks, Inside and Out

The front end of the new Sportage has undergone a noticeable facelift, marked by sleeker LED headlights and a redesigned grille inspired by Kia’s “Opposites United” design philosophy. The SUV now rides on newly styled alloy wheels, available in sizes ranging from 17 to 19 inches.

Inside the cabin, Kia has taken cues from its EV3 electric model. The redesigned two-spoke steering wheel and revamped air vents modernize the driving environment. Entry-level versions now feature seats upholstered in Dinamica microfiber, while the sportier GT-Line and GT-Line S trims come with artificial leather and Alcantara finishes.

Technology takes center stage with a curved panoramic display integrating two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. A 10-inch Head-Up Display projects critical information onto the windshield, while a wireless phone charger and a 360-degree camera system capable of rendering 3D images enhance convenience and safety.

Practicality Meets Performance

Practicality remains a strong suit for the Sportage. The boot offers a generous 587 liters of cargo space, expandable to 1,776 liters with the rear seats folded. Hybrid models feature a dual-level boot floor, optimizing storage options for active lifestyles.

Under the hood, Kia offers two powertrain options for European buyers. The base model features a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 150 horsepower, paired with either a 6-speed manual or an optional 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This variant is front-wheel-drive only.

For those seeking more power and efficiency, a hybrid model combines a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a robust 239 horsepower. This version comes standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission and offers the choice of front- or all-wheel drive.

Made in Europe, For Europe

The new Sportage will continue to be manufactured at Kia’s facility in Žilina, Slovakia, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to the European market. Sales of the updated model are expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025, although official pricing is still under wraps.

As Kia doubles down on blending style, sustainability, and smart tech, the refreshed Sportage stands ready to compete in Europe’s fiercely contested compact SUV segment—with sharper design, greater efficiency, and a tech-rich interior that promises to keep it a consumer favorite.

Source: KIA

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