Category Archives: NEW CARS

NEW CARS

New Renault Clio Set for Landmark Reveal at Munich Motor Show

Sixth-generation model promises major overhaul, hybrid-only powertrain, and uncertain UK future.

Renault has confirmed that the sixth-generation Renault Clio will break cover imminently, with its global debut strongly tipped for the 2025 Munich Motor Show this September. The reveal marks a significant evolution for what is currently Europe’s best-selling car, as the iconic supermini transitions to a hybrid-only powertrain and undergoes one of the most substantial overhauls in its history.

Bold Shift for Europe’s Favourite Supermini

Renault has a habit of making big statements at European motor shows, having recently debuted headline models such as the Renault 5, 4, Twingo, and Mégane E-Tech. The new Clio looks set to be the marquee unveiling in Munich on September 8, based on the firm’s plans for a ‘pre-show’ reveal.

While full details remain under wraps, it’s clear the new Clio will ditch pure-petrol engines in favor of an updated version of Renault’s E-Tech hybrid powertrain. The existing 1.6-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine will be paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 143bhp and 151lb ft of torque.

Hybrid-Only: Driven by Regulation

The decision to go hybrid-only isn’t just about performance—it’s about compliance. EU fleet emissions targets are tightening fast, with the average CO₂ threshold dropping to 93.6g/km in 2025, and a drastic 49.5g/km expected by 2030. By comparison, the outgoing petrol-only TCe 90 emits 120g/km, while the hybrid E-Tech is rated at 96g/km—a critical 20% improvement.

Renault’s move positions the Clio as an emissions-conscious choice in the B-segment, but there’s a caveat: the sixth-gen Clio will not be offered with a fully electric drivetrain. That strategic omission could impact its availability in the UK.

UK Future Uncertain

The Clio’s UK future is now in doubt due to the government’s Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which requires 24% of a carmaker’s sales to be EVs in 2024, ramping up to 80% by 2030. Without an electric variant, Renault may find it difficult to justify allocating sales to the Clio in the UK, especially when the Captur crossover—which shares underpinnings with the Clio—is more profitable.

That’s despite the Clio’s strong brand identity in the UK. “Clio is a brand in itself,” said Renault’s Product Performance Chief, Bruno Vanel. “In the UK, it is probably as well known as Renault – or even more.” A final decision on the UK market is not expected until 2025.

Design, Platform, and Affordability

Visually, the new Clio will feature a bolder front end and twin-decked lip rear spoilers, hinting at a sportier design direction. Under the skin, it will ride on an evolved version of the CMF-B platform, shared with models like the Captur and Arkana, and updated to enhance efficiency and cost management.

Affordability remains a top priority for Renault. As the brand pivots toward more expensive EVs, the Clio will serve as a crucial bridge for budget-conscious buyers. “We are not moving directly towards 100% electric,” said Vanel. “We are doing it step by step, to have this transition with hybrid cars so that we remain an affordable brand.”

Rather than slashing list prices, Renault will lean on monthly leasing or PCP finance packages to maintain accessibility. “If you compare the rentals in 2018/2019 to last year, with the improvement of residual values and even with some price increases, I think we experienced quite a good performance,” Vanel added.

What’s Next?

The all-new Clio is expected to go on sale across continental Europe in early 2026, but whether it will remain part of Renault’s UK portfolio remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the sixth-generation Clio is shaping up to be more than just a facelift—it’s a clear symbol of Renault’s evolving identity in a rapidly changing industry.

Source: Renault

NEW CARS

2026 Lexus LC500 Pinnacle Edition Debuts in Japan, Limited to 200 Units

Just days after Lexus revealed the 2026 model year update for North America’s LC lineup, the Japanese automaker has quietly introduced a new, potentially final chapter for its flagship grand tourer—exclusive to its home market. Enter the Lexus LC500 Pinnacle Edition, a limited-run special that may serve as a celebratory send-off for one of the brand’s most striking and soulful vehicles.

A Grand Finale?

First teased as a concept back in 2012 and brought to production in 2016, the LC has been a showcase of Lexus’ commitment to design, craftsmanship, and V8 performance. Nearly a decade into its run, the new Pinnacle Edition is described by Lexus as representing the “summit” of the model line. While the automaker has yet to confirm a production end date, this new edition carries the weight and presence of a farewell model.

Exclusive to Japan

The LC500 Pinnacle Edition will be sold exclusively in Japan, with 100 units each of the coupe and convertible variants available. Half of the production run will be distributed via a lottery system, with applications open from July 24 to August 7, and winners notified by August 18.

Design & Styling Highlights

Visually, the Pinnacle Edition takes cues from the US-market LC500 Inspiration Series, but Lexus adds Japan-specific details to distinguish it further. The aggressive bodywork is accentuated by front bumper canards, black exterior accents, and a fixed rear wing made from carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic—a feature first seen on the 2020 LC Aviation special edition.

  • Coupe: Finished in a striking Oborogin matte silver paint with a matte clear coat for a stealthy effect.
  • Convertible: Dressed in Neutrino Gray, paired with a luxurious Brown Silver soft top.

Both versions roll on 21-inch forged alloy wheels featuring a black sputtering finish and intricate multi-spoke design that radiates understated elegance.

Crafted Interiors

The cabin treatment differs between body styles, each offering a unique atmosphere:

  • Coupe: A clean, high-contrast black and white two-tone interior.
  • Convertible: A more luxurious vibe with saddle tan and white leather.

Special touches include embroidered dashboards, carbon fiber scuff plates, and an exclusive “LC Limited Edition” badge on the center console—subtle nods to the model’s exclusivity.

Familiar Heart, Refined Performance

Under the hood remains the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8, a hallmark of the LC500. Producing 471 horsepower (351 kW) and 540 Nm (398 lb-ft) of torque, it’s mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission driving the rear wheels. Lexus adds a specially tuned limited-slip differential to sharpen the driving experience.

Performance tuning is tailored to each model’s character:

  • The coupe gains a rear aluminum hollow suspension member, boosting rigidity and grip for more responsive handling.
  • The convertible is tuned for smoother ride comfort, preserving its grand touring essence.

Price and Availability

The LC500 Pinnacle Edition is priced at ¥17,800,000 (approx. $121,500 USD), placing it at the top of the LC range. Its limited numbers and exclusive features ensure it will become a coveted collector’s item for Japanese enthusiasts.

2026 LC Lineup Updates

Beyond the Pinnacle Edition, Lexus has introduced subtle tweaks to the broader LC lineup for the Japanese market. While there are no major design changes, all trims now feature a new door sticker that—according to Lexus—enhances “the sense of rigidity.”

Buyers can still choose between:

  • The LC500 with its 5.0-liter V8
  • The LC500h, which pairs a 3.5-liter V6 with hybrid assistance

Notably, the LC500h hybrid variant remains on sale in Japan, even as it’s discontinued for the U.S. market as of 2026.

Prices for the updated Japanese-spec LC range from:

  • ¥14,100,000 to ¥14,930,000 ($96,200–$101,900 USD) for the LC500
  • ¥14,550,000 to ¥15,380,000 ($99,300–$105,000 USD) for the LC500h

Availability begins August 4, offering Japanese buyers one final chance to enjoy Lexus’ flagship coupe before its eventual curtain call.

Source: Lexus

NEW CARS

Great Wall Motor Teases V8 Hybrid Supercar to Rival Ferrari and McLaren

In a move that will send shockwaves through the global performance car scene, Chinese automotive giant Great Wall Motor (GWM) has teased what appears to be its first true supercar—a bold new halo model aimed squarely at Ferrari and McLaren.

The news broke via Chinese social media platform Weibo, where GWM chairman Wei Jianjun marked the company’s 35th anniversary with a striking image: company executives gathered around the silhouette of a low-slung, mid-engined machine draped in cloth. Though no details were revealed in the post, the shape beneath the sheet left little doubt—a full-blooded supercar is on the way.

This development follows earlier confirmation from GWM’s chief technology officer, Wu Huixiao, that the company has been secretly developing a high-performance flagship for over five years. According to Wu, the car is built around a carbonfibre monocoque chassis, and in no uncertain terms, he claimed it “will be better” than its European counterparts.

If that sounds ambitious coming from the maker of budget-friendly models like the Ora 03 and Haval Jolion Pro, consider this: GWM is China’s largest privately owned carmaker, delivering over 1.2 million vehicles globally in 2024. And it’s not just quantity. In recent years, GWM has aggressively expanded its brand portfolio, including premium SUV marque Wey, rugged off-roaders from Tank, and the soon-to-arrive Poer pickup range.

The new supercar is tipped to debut under a newly minted high-end sub-brand called Confidence Auto, set to rival BYD’s Yangwang, which itself has gained notoriety with the U9—an all-electric hypercar producing 1,250bhp and capable of leaping off the ground and conquering the Nürburgring in a blistering 7 minutes 18 seconds.

Though GWM hasn’t officially disclosed performance figures or a name for its supercar, there are mounting rumors that it will feature the company’s newly unveiled 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, first shown at the 2024 Shanghai Auto Show. While specs remain under wraps, industry sources suggest outputs could exceed 600 hp and 590 lb-ft from the engine alone.

More intriguingly, this V8 (or possibly the brand’s existing V6) will be paired with electric motors in a plug-in hybrid layout—putting it in the same high-performance hybrid league as the McLaren Artura, Ferrari 296 GTB, and Lamborghini’s new Temerario. That means total power output could comfortably eclipse the 800bhp mark, setting up the GWM machine as a serious player in the global supercar race.

With no confirmed name or reveal date, all eyes now turn to the Guangzhou Auto Show in late November, one of China’s biggest automotive events and a likely stage for the car’s grand debut.

If successful, Great Wall Motor’s first foray into the supercar world won’t just be a bold flex of engineering muscle—it could mark a pivotal moment in China’s transition from volume producer to purveyor of genuinely world-class performance cars.

Source: Autocar