All posts by Francis Mitterrand

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Mitsubishi Motors Doubles Down on Value and Electrification for 2026 Lineup

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Mitsubishi Motors has long built its reputation on offering value-packed vehicles with lasting durability, and the 2026 model year proves the brand is not resting on its laurels. With a heavily refreshed Outlander Plug-in Hybrid, the debut of a new mild-hybrid powertrain, and the expansion of specialty trims like the Trail Edition and Ralliart, Mitsubishi’s lineup signals a renewed push toward refinement, innovation, and electrification — all under the umbrella of its Momentum 2030 business strategy.

Electrified Outlander: Sharper, Smarter, and Quieter

Leading the charge is the significantly updated 2026 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), receiving a mid-cycle refresh that mirrors the changes introduced on the standard Outlander in 2025. Mitsubishi has given the cabin a noticeable upgrade, focusing on premium comfort with quieter insulation, new color palettes, improved materials, heated and cooled front seats, and a redesigned center console with increased storage. A standout feature is the industry-exclusive Yamaha® premium audio system and an available 12.3-inch infotainment screen.

Visually, a revised front fascia, smoked rear taillights, and new 20-inch wheels set the tone for a more confident stance. Under the skin, a larger-capacity battery improves all-electric range and performance, while revised suspension and steering geometry deliver a more composed ride. Mitsubishi’s signature Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) twin-motor system continues to offer all-weather capability with motorsport pedigree.

Slated for a Q1 2026 debut, the new PHEV builds on its legacy as the world’s first plug-in hybrid SUV, offering a compelling blend of efficiency, power, and all-road ability.

Outlander Adds Mild Hybrid and Expanded Trim Lineup

The gas-powered 2026 Outlander ushers in Mitsubishi’s first mild-hybrid powertrain, replacing the outgoing 2.5-liter engine with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder shared with the Eclipse Cross. Paired with a new 48V mild-hybrid system, the setup is designed to improve low-end torque and drivability — a move that aligns Mitsubishi with industry-wide trends in electrification without abandoning internal combustion entirely.

The Outlander’s visual and interior refresh carries over unchanged from 2025, but the lineup now includes a new LE trim, a returning Ralliart edition, and a top-spec SEL Black Edition, giving buyers more customization and performance-themed options.

Expect more details on pricing and specs later this year, with availability in Q4 2025.

Eclipse Cross: Subtle Tweaks, Familiar Strengths

The 2026 Eclipse Cross sees minimal changes but maintains its appeal in the compact crossover segment. Notable updates include the standardization of the “Eclipse Cross” hood badging on higher trims and the removal of built-in navigation — likely a nod to the continued dominance of smartphone-based systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain standard across the board.

Beneath its sharp exterior, the Eclipse Cross retains Mitsubishi’s S-AWC all-wheel-drive system, underscoring the brand’s rally-bred DNA.

Outlander Sport and Trail Editions: Rugged, Reliable, and Accessible

The 2026 Outlander Sport continues unchanged from 2025, reinforcing its role as Mitsubishi’s most affordable SUV. Despite its budget-friendly price tag, it doesn’t skimp on essentials: All-Wheel Control, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and high marks in customer satisfaction.

Mitsubishi also extends its Trail Edition lineup for 2026, offering ruggedized versions of the Outlander and Outlander Sport. Designed with adventure in mind, these models come equipped with model-specific graphics, all-terrain tires, Thule roof racks, and unique wheels — a nod to Mitsubishi’s decorated off-road racing history, from the Dakar Rally to the World Rally Championship.

Warranty and Ownership Experience

Mitsubishi continues to deliver peace of mind with one of the most generous warranty packages in the industry:

  • 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
  • 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty
  • 7-year/100,000-mile anti-corrosion warranty
  • 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance
  • 2-year/30,000-mile complimentary maintenance program

While Mitsubishi may not always dominate headlines, its 2026 lineup demonstrates a smart, customer-focused evolution. By embracing electrification where it makes sense, refining interior quality, and doubling down on value and versatility, Mitsubishi is setting the stage for a steady climb under its Momentum 2030 plan — one carefully calibrated step at a time.

Source: Mitsubishi

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Volvo to Begin U.S. Production of XC60 at South Carolina Plant in 2026

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Volvo Cars has officially confirmed that it will begin producing its best-selling XC60 mid-size SUV at its U.S. plant in Ridgeville, just outside Charleston, South Carolina. The move, set to begin in late 2026, comes as the Swedish automaker looks to strengthen its position in the U.S. market while strategically sidestepping tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The decision marks a significant milestone for Volvo’s American operations, especially as the XC60 continues to dominate the brand’s sales charts. In the first half of 2025 alone, the XC60 accounted for over 33 percent of Volvo’s U.S. sales, with a 22.9 percent year-over-year increase in June and a total of 21,907 units sold that month.

A Strategic Shift for a Critical Model

“Adding the XC60 to our Charleston production line will further strengthen its position and attractiveness in the competitive U.S. market, while supporting and creating American manufacturing jobs,” said Håkan Samuelsson, CEO of Volvo Cars. “It is also in line with our ambition to build where we sell and reinforces our long-term commitment to the U.S. market.”

The Ridgeville plant, which began operations in 2018, currently assembles the fully electric EX90 flagship SUV and the Polestar 3. However, both models have struggled to gain traction in the U.S. market. By adding the XC60—a proven sales leader—Volvo hopes to invigorate production lines and better align with U.S. consumer preferences.

Luis Rezende, President of Volvo Cars Americas, echoed the sentiment: “The XC60 is the right car for this market. It offers the best of Volvo in a versatile size with the powertrain options to suit our U.S. customers. We’re proud we’ll soon be able to offer American families the XC60 they love, assembled here by American autoworkers.”

A Pillar in Volvo’s Global Portfolio

The XC60 isn’t just Volvo’s top performer in the U.S.—it’s a global powerhouse. With over 2.7 million units sold globally, it recently surpassed the iconic Volvo 240 as the brand’s all-time best-selling model. U.S. customers have long gravitated toward the XC60 for its blend of safety, luxury, and Scandinavian design.

The model will be produced in both mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants in Charleston. That’s a particularly strategic move, given that 25 percent of XC60s sold in the U.S. this year are plug-in hybrids—making it the fourth best-selling luxury plug-in hybrid in the country. For Volvo, it’s not just about meeting current demand, but also about accelerating its push toward electrification.

Investment in the Future

Volvo has invested $1.3 billion into the Ridgeville facility over the past decade, preparing it for high-volume, flexible production. The plant now includes a state-of-the-art battery pack assembly line and upgraded body and paint shops. These enhancements ensure the factory can handle a wide variety of platforms and powertrains.

Governor Henry McMaster and state officials have played a key role in supporting Volvo’s expansion, with South Carolina’s pro-manufacturing policies and workforce development initiatives cited as major factors in the decision.

Looking Ahead

With the addition of the XC60, Volvo is reinforcing its commitment to building vehicles closer to where they are sold—both to reduce costs and to stay agile in a turbulent global trade environment. While the fully electric EX90 will continue to target forward-looking buyers, the XC60 will serve as the brand’s volume leader and bridge to an electric future.

In a year when Volvo celebrates 70 years in the U.S. and surpasses 5 million vehicles sold stateside, the XC60’s American production marks a new chapter in the company’s legacy—and a bet that South Carolina can deliver for one of Europe’s most storied automakers.

Source: Volvo

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Bentley Prepares to Launch First Electric SUV in 2026

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In a world where luxury and electrification are converging faster than ever, Bentley is preparing to make a pivotal move. The storied British marque, known for grand tourers like the Continental GT and stately cruisers such as the Flying Spur, is about to downsize—but only in stature, not ambition.

Meet the not-yet-named “Urban SUV,” Bentley’s upcoming compact electric SUV that’s set to expand its already successful SUV lineup. Riding on the coattails of the Bentayga’s triumph—accounting for 41 percent of Bentley’s global sales in the first half of 2024—the new, smaller SUV aims to offer a more accessible entry point into the brand without compromising on luxury, presence, or performance.

A Strategic Shift

Bentley’s shift toward electrification is well documented, with its “Beyond100+” strategy laying the foundation for a fully electric lineup by 2030. The Urban SUV will be the brand’s first fully electric SUV, a landmark model that signals more than just a new segment—it marks the beginning of Bentley’s EV era.

Originally scheduled for debut in 2024, the model has been delayed until 2026, with production beginning shortly thereafter at the brand’s Crewe headquarters. Despite the wait, anticipation is building—and for good reason.

What We Know So Far

While Bentley has kept its cards close to the chest, a single teaser image and some telling executive commentary have helped piece together a few key details. CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser has confirmed that the SUV will measure under 16.4 feet in length, slightly shorter than the 16.8-foot Bentayga. So, while it may be the “baby Bentley” in spirit, don’t expect anything subcompact.

The SUV will be underpinned by Volkswagen Group’s PPE (Premium Platform Electric), which also serves as the foundation for the Audi Q6 e-tron and Porsche Macan Electric. This platform promises top-tier battery tech and performance capabilities.

Walliser has also hinted at impressive charging speeds and energy density, suggesting the Urban SUV will be a technological flagship in disguise. “You don’t need an 800-mile range,” he said in a recent interview. “I think 350 to 400 miles, and fast charging. Bentley customers don’t want to wait.”

Just as notable is Bentley’s focus on sound—a traditionally silent arena in the EV world. Walliser promises an “exhilarating” propulsion noise that adds emotion back into the electric driving experience.

Design: Familiar DNA, Futuristic Details

Design-wise, expect strong lineage ties to the Bentayga, but with notable cues from Bentley’s latest concept, the EXP 15. Though its upright headlights and rectangular faux-grille may polarize, these elements are likely to carry over—perhaps slightly softened for production.

In our own imagined renderings, the EXP 15’s sharp proportions translated into a compact SUV give it a bold, futuristic edge. And as with any Bentley, customization will be key. The brand claims up to 46 billion possible configurations at launch—a staggering number that underlines the Urban SUV’s bespoke appeal.

Positioning and Price

One thing Bentley is being clear about: this vehicle won’t be called the “Urban SUV.” That’s merely a placeholder, with a formal and suitably opulent name to come. Pricing, while not yet confirmed, is expected to start around $150,000, making it a more attainable alternative to the $207,050 base Bentayga.

The goal is clear—attract a younger, tech-savvy clientele without diluting the brand’s exclusivity.

Looking Ahead

When it finally arrives in 2026, Bentley’s first electric SUV won’t just be a new product—it’ll be a statement. A declaration that even the most tradition-steeped luxury brands must evolve, and that the future of motoring can still be wrapped in handcrafted leather and polished wood.

In a segment quickly filling with electric offerings from every luxury automaker under the sun, Bentley’s new SUV must do more than compete—it must redefine. And if the early signs are anything to go by, Crewe’s next big (but slightly smaller) thing might just do exactly that.

Photo: Bentley