Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GN0W) - 2025 facelift

Launched at the end of 2021, the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (GN0W) was a game-changer that promises to turn Mitsubishi's fortunes around with its PHEV drivetrain. Sadly, only a few are taking notice of it. Now is the ideal time to reintroduce the Outlander PHEV to the world in a revamped approach.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Now starting at 5,263,500 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, a huge price hike compared to the previous model, the updated Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV GN0W promises to be an even more game-changer than before with its recalibrated PHEV drivetrain along with some retouches in store for this minor change.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV interior

The 2025 model features some slight retouches, such as the front grille to accommodate its front shutters, revamped wheel designs, the new 12.3-inch touchscreen sat-nav system with smartphone connectivity, and the available Yamaha 12-speaker sound system, which replaces the Bose unit from the pre-facelifted model. It's still offered with the choice of a five-seater or a seven-seater and can carry up to 1404 liters of boot space with the passenger seats folded down. Ideal for various walks of life from business to leisure.

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

Now's the ideal time to talk about its recalibrated PHEV powertrain. While the 4B12 2.4L petrol engine remains unchanged, the electrical bit is now powered by the 22.7 kWh lithium battery with a new liquid cooling system and a heat pump system, making greater efficiency to its twin motors that supplement its Super All-Wheel Control system. Overall, it now produces over 300PS of power, and mated with a single-gear automatic, it sprints from 0-100kph in less than eight seconds and flat-out in 170kph.

Its fuel efficiency is now 17.6 km/L, and its EV driving range is now 106km based on WLTC Mode standards.

Mitsubishi also recalibrated the Outlander PHEV's dynamics using lightweight and high-rigidity aluminum on its suspension setup to make it slightly more enjoyable to drive everywhere as well as its revamped steering layout and larger ventilated disc brakes.

The new Outlander PHEV prioritizes safety with its MI-PILOT single-lane driver assistance technology. This system combines Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist to help keep the vehicle centered while navigating Tokyo's highways. Additionally, it features the capability to read speed limit signs, which may surprise other drivers on the road.

Now that we’ve had a chance to get acquainted with the new features of the refreshed Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, let's discuss whether or not this refresh has successfully made it the ideal time to take notice of this improved model.

Photo: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation

Kia Sportage (NQ5) - 2025 Minor Change

The fifth-generation Kia Sportage received a minor change for the 2025 model year and what an improvement this crossover has gained having been on the road for three years.

2025 Kia Sportage

Starting at 28,360,000 Korean Won plus additional costs, the facelifted Kia Sportage is packed with a bolder exterior revision and a new interior, and by surprise, the diesel variant from the pre-facelift model was removed, leaving only a choice of a 2.0L LPG, a 1.6L turbo, and a 1.6L turbo-hybrid.

2025 Kia Sportage

The 2025 Kia Sportage features an enlarged grille and an EV3-styled nose that some people think is too obvious. In addition, they also redesigned the wheels and tail lights to further enhance the vehicle's aesthetics. The pre-facelift model's high-end Gravity variant has been replaced with the first-ever X-Line variant that features a black badging, vertical slanted front grille, a slightly longer but more macho front bumper, 19-inch wheels, premium steering wheel, and suede headlining.

2025 Kia Sportage interior

The interior has given a significant revision for the recent minor change as hinted by the new Kia steering wheel design lifted from the EV3, a slightly bigger touch screen with a next-generation infotainment system, new air vent designs, and a fingerprint authentication system, among others. 

The Kia Sportage maintains its class-leading cabin room. The longer wheelbase provides more legroom, and there is enough space for plenty of luggage in the boot.

2025 Kia Sportage

As said before, the diesel variant from the pre-facelift model was removed, leaving only a choice of a 2.0L LPG, a 1.6L turbo, and a 1.6L turbo-hybrid. The LPG and the petrol variant are mated to an 8-speed AT while the hybrid is mated to a 6-speed AT. 

The 146PS 2.0L LPG variant has a fuel economy of 8.8km/L while the 180PS 1.6L turbo petrol engine has 12.3km/L of fuel economy, and the Sportage Hybrid, now with an improved 47.7kW electric motor, gets 16.3km/L.

Underneath, the Sportage still comes with front MacPherson struts, rear multilink suspension, and front ventilated disc brakes. Come front-wheel-drive, it behaves like a normal car, but with the 4WD drivetrain, it's capable of getting things dirty, almost. Thankfully, the Sportage Hybrid can be offered with the 4WD drivetrain, so it's not afraid of going under the weather. Coupled with e-handling and e-ride, the Sportage Hybrid drives slightly well.

The 2025 Kia Sportage has eight airbags, steering wheel grip detection, and a Driver Forward Attention Warning Camera. It also has Highway Driving Assist 2, navigation-based smart cruise control, Lane Keeping Assist 2, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear side collision avoidance assist, rear parking collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, side parking distance warning, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Safe Exit Warning.

The Kia Sportage is a common-sense crossover for those who are wise to drive one but with the latest minor change, common sense just took a slightly bolder approach in style, comfort, capability, and technology. Need to say more?

Available Colors: Snow White Pearl, Heritage Blue, Wolf Grey, Gravity Grey, Vesta Blue, Fusion Black, Shadow Matte Grey, and Jungle Wood Green.

Photo: Kia Corp.

Suzuki Fronx

After 36 years, the Suzuki Escudo is officially dead and its place was filled by its replacement transferred from India. Meet the first-ever Suzuki Fronx.

2025 Suzuki Fronx

Priced at 2,541,000 Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever Fronx fills the void left by the recently deceased Escudo and is ready to compete with the Toyota Raize and the Honda WR-V. The Fronx marks the second time Suzuki imported a vehicle from India's Maruti Suzuki manufacturing line since the Baleno in 2016.

2025 Suzuki Fronx

Beginning with the styling, the Fronx looks well-sculpted and macho compared to the Escudo it replaces. From its NEXwave grille, striking front fascia, NEXTre' LED lights, new-age aerodynamic design, LED sweeping taillights heavily mistaken for a Mercedes SUV, and geometric alloy wheels, rest assured that the Fronx is starting to take shape like an earnest Indian student who got transferred to a Japanese school.

2025 Suzuki Fronx interior

Now, let's get to know the interior and by surprise, the Fronx is shockingly premium in its class. The driver's side is packed with goodies such as a heads-up display, wireless charger, heated seats, and a 9-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity and Suzuki Connect service. Although regularly comfortable by compact crossover standards, you can carry up to 290L of goodies with the rear seats present, which is more than the Escudo and can be folded down for more.

2025 Suzuki Fronx

The only powertrain offered in the Fronx is the 1.5L Dual Jet mild-hybrid powertrain mated to a 6-speed AT with paddle shifters. The engine produces 100PS of power and it's connected to a 2.3kW electric motor with a lithium-ion battery. In its FF configuration, it has 19km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards while the 4WD variant gets 17.8km/L.

Being a fully imported crossover from India that can travel across Japan, the Fronx is packed with Rack & Pinion steering, front MacPherson Struts, rear torsion beam, and front ventilated disc brakes. As a front-wheel-drive crossover, the Fronx feels slightly regular to drive daily but with 4WD equipped, it has slightly improved its capabilities. Not great but it will do. Greatness can somewhat be a cruel and unpredictable mistress if you catch my drift.

The Fronx features Suzuki Safety Support, a suite of ADAS that can tackle everyday driving by streets, highways, parking, and at night. Along with ABS with EBD, ISOFIX child fix anchorages, six airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners with force limiters, impact compliance, and Pedestrian Protection compliance, it's about as safe as every Japanese crossover should be.

Although this is the most expensive crossover in its class, more than the Raize and the WR-V, it's cheaper to own than the now-defunct Escudo, the fully-imported Suzuki Fronx tries to make a name for itself as a world standard in Suzuki's right. Let's hope it won't repeat the same mistake as the Baleno because this is the second chance Suzuki is selling an Indian import on its home turf. Best of luck.

Available Colors: Artic White Pearl, Artic White Pearl/Black Roof, Splendid Silver Metallic, Splendid Silver Metallic/Black Roof, Bluish Black Pearl 4, Opulent Red Pearl Metallic/Black Roof, Lucent Orange Pearl Metallic/Black Roof, Earthen Brown Pearl Metallic/Black Roof, and Celestial Blue Pearl Metallic.

Photo: Suzuki Motor Corporation

Mazda CX-80

The big brother of the CX-60, the CX-80, is here, completing Mazda's plan to launch crossovers running on a newly developed rear-wheel-drive platform.

2025 Mazda CX-80

Served as the successor to the CX-8, the first-ever, 3,943,500 Yen, Mazda CX-80 is the flagship of the Mazda lineup and obviously the most expensive in the range. Still, despite the price tag, you can sharply afford one compared to expensive luxury European imports.

2025 Mazda CX-80

Familiar looks aside, the CX-80 is 95mm longer and 50mm wider than the CX-8 it replaces, although it's 16mm lower. With such sizing, there's no doubt that the CX-80 is the "big boss" of the Mazda lineup, a real breadwinner.

2025 Mazda CX-80 interior

The high-quality interior is another one of the CX-80's key points because of the Nappa leather slathered on expensive models, the panorama sunroof, the Mazda Connect system, the optional Bose Sound System, and others. Being a three-row mainstream crossover, the CX-80 has a choice of three second-row seating configurations: a three-person bench seat, two captain's seats separated by a walk-through space, and two captain's seats with a middle console.

Concerning boot space, the CX-80 carries up to 258 liters with the passenger seats present up to 1221 liters with the passenger seats folded down.

2025 Mazda CX-80

The CX-80 is powered by a choice of a SKYACTIV-D 3.3, a 254PS e-SKYACTIV-D 3.3 with M Hybrid Boost, and the range-topping 327PS 2.5L e-SKYACTIV PHEV powertrain. All of these powertrains are mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The one with the e-SKYACTIV-D 3.3 has 18.3km/L of fuel economy while the 2.5L e-SKYACTIV PHEV has 12.9km/L of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards and while running on electric power only, it has 67km of electric driving range. Enough range from your humble Muntinlupa home to a weekend trip to the SM Megamall or Okada Manila for some reason.

Although it is heavy to drive for an SUV running on FR architecture, the CX-80 feels slightly more enjoyable to drive than the CX-8 it replaces. Along with the available 4WD system, front double wishbones, rear multilink, ventilated disc brakes, and rack-and-pinion steering, it's about as luxurious to drive as expensive luxury imports or a Hyundai Palisade.

On the topic of safety, the Mazda CX-80 is fully prepared with a wide range of active safety features such as the Mazda Radar Cruise Control, Cruising and Traffic Support, and many others.

With such dimensions, interior, performance, and technology, not to mention the FR architecture running underneath, there's no doubt that the CX-80 is the "big boss" of the Mazda lineup. It's a shame that there will be no more after this because the FR architecture Mazda made has so many possibilities but sadly, this is as far as they go. Anyway, while the CX-80 completes the SUV range running on such architecture, there are other plans on the horizon so watch for it. Who knows what sort of tricks Mazda will come up.

Available Colors: Artisan Red Premium Metallic, Soul Red Crystal Metallic, Melting Copper Metallic, Jet Black Mica, Machine Grey  Premium Metallic, Rhodium White Premium Metallic, Platinum Quartz Metallic, and Deep Crystal Blue Mica.

Photo: Mazda Motor Corporation

Volkswagen Tiguan Mk3 v Skoda Kodiaq Mk2

A best-seller in Volkswagen's right, the Tiguan is now in its third generation and there's a lot to talk about the latest version of one of the best-selling crossovers in Europe...or so they said.

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

Starting at 38,250 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new third-generation Volkswagen Tiguan is the latest evolution of Volkswagen's smash-hit crossover that loves to pick fights against the Japanese opposition, mainly the Mazda CX-5 that made the Tiguan taste defeat while towing caravans.

Beginning with the design, the third-generation Tiguan can be easily mistaken for the Touareg NF, so it's a hand-me-down from its big brother. Throwback aside, the use of the MQB evo platform resulted in a slightly increased dimension compared to its previous model. It's 3cm longer than the old model while the height and the width remain almost identical.

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan interior

As expected, the new interior employs the minimalist approach like most Volkswagens today. While the button-packed steering wheel is the tip of the iceberg, it also features a Digital Cockpit comprising a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 15-inch central infotainment display touchscreen that controls the infotainment, air conditioning, and the show-off ambient lighting. It even comes with HUD, Driving Experience Control, and the annoying IDA voice assistant.

With the second-row seats present, the Tiguan can carry up to 652 liters of boot space, an improvement from the previous model. However, with the rear seats folded down, it has 1650 liters of boot space. Ah, the irony.

2024 Volkswagen Tiguan

Thanks to the MQB evo platform, the all-new Tiguan behaves slightly better than the previous model. With the available 4MOTION 4-wheel-drive system and Dynamic Chassis Control, it can do slightly more. Should the Mazda CX-5 take note of the Tiguan's latest improvements? Who knows?

While right-minded Europeans should shy away from the 2.0 TDi variant because dieselgate, of course, the Tiguan can be fitted with the 1.5 eTSi OPF, 1.5 eHYBRID OPF, and the 265PS 2.0 TSi OPF exclusive for the R-Line variant. With the entry-level variant having 6.2 l/100 km of fuel economy based on WLTP standards, the range-topper of the Tiguan is the plug-in hybrid 272PS 1.5 eHybrid OPF. Mated with the 6-speed DSG, it does 0-100kph in 7.2 seconds and has a top speed of 215kph. Running on electric power alone, it can go up to 112km of driving range.

As always, the all-new Tiguan is packed with numerous safety features such as a lane change system, autonomous emergency braking and a lane keeping system, rearview camera system, dynamic road sign display, available park assist pro with remote parking capability, and the available trailer assist.

The all-new Tiguan may have bore the looks of its big brother from the previous decade but with the most advanced features offered and a wide array of powertrains available, including the range-topping PHEV variant with up to 272PS of power, looks it like it has the fighting chance to take down the aging Mazda CX-5 by a long shot...or perhaps some other crossover bearing similar nooks and crannies from this?

2024 Skoda Kodiaq

2024 Skoda Kodiaq

Hailing from Czechia, this is the all-new second-generation Skoda Kodiaq. Priced at 980,000 Kč, which in Euro terms, is more expensive than its Tiguan relative, the all-new Kodiaq eschews the sharp looks from the previous model in favor of a rounder one with the rearview easily mistaken for a Volkswagen ID.5 or certain Lincoln crossovers from the past decade.

2024 Skoda Kodiaq interior

Unlike the Tiguan, which is offered in five-seater only, the all-new Kodiaq is offered with the choice of a five-seater or a seven-seater with up to 2105 liters of boot space with the passenger seats folded down. Not only it's more spacious than the previous Kodiaq, but it's even more spacious than its Tiguan cousin.

Under the hood, the all-new Kodiaq is powered by a choice of a 1.5L TSi engine with mild-hybrid and 7-speed AT, a 2.0L TDi engine with the same gearbox, and the 204PS 1.5L TSi PHEV with 6-speed AT. It's their range-topper, of course, and with the PHEV powertrain mentioned, it does 0-100kph in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 210kph, which is 5kph less than the most powerful Tiguan mentioned above.

Like the Tiguan, the all-new Kodiaq is packed with numerous safety features such as a lane change system, autonomous emergency braking and a lane keeping system, rearview camera system, dynamic road sign display, and others.

There you have it, the latest versions of the crossovers that made huge gains in Mainland Europe. The all-new Tiguan and the all-new Kodiaq have several differences despite bearing the same platform but these crossovers prove that their journey continues. Like them or not, here they come.

Photo: Volkswagen/Skoda

Renault Scenic E-Tech v Symbioz v Rafale

Known as the Espace's little brother when it was a humble MPV, the all-new Renault Scenic has morphed into an all-electric crossover because we live in the new normal where crossovers dominate new car sales like superhero movies.

2024 Renault Scenic

Here it is, the all-new, all-electric, fifth-generation Renault Scenic. It's no longer the Scenic the world knows because it's now officially a crossover SUV that uses the same E-TECH all-electric powertrain from the Megane. It starts at 35,990 Euros plus additional costs, cheaper than its main rival, the Peugeot e-2008.

2024 Renault Scenic

Beginning with the styling, the all-new Scenic mimics the design from the Scenic Vision Concept two years ago, giving sharpness to this crossover people carrier. Its dimensions are 4.47m long, 1.86m wide, and 1.57m high, which promises to be more spacious than its predecessor despite being smaller in width and height.

2024 Renault Scenic interior

The all-new Scenic dons the familiar Renault dashboard that today's models have, meaning you will be greeted by the all-familiar 12.3-inch horizontal screen joined by the L-shaped 12-inch vertical touchscreen that controls the infotainment, climate control, and the MULTI-SENSE. It's powered by Google Android Auto just so you know. Concerning sustainability, the Scenic's interior is crafted from 90% of recyclable materials.

As a five-seater, the all-new Scenic allows passengers to turn the middle seat from the second row into an armrest with two cup holders. Ideal for VIP work if you're into that. Regarding boot space, the Scenic V can carry up to 545 liters, with the rear seats present up to 1,670 liters of boot space and the passenger seats folded.

2024 Renault Scenic

The all-electric E-TECH powertrain features a 60kWH standard range or an 87kWh high-range battery pack. The latter produces a high-performance 220PS of power and 300Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in less than eight seconds and is about ten kph slower than a standard Japanese car or a present-day Volvo. As for driving range, it's good for up to 625km on one full charge.

Asked about the driving experience, even with the MULTI-SENSE set to Sport Mode, the all-new Scenic feels regular to drive. Not an exciting experience as expected on an electric crossover but thanks to its CMF-EV platform and its electric drivetrain, it's about as comfortable as sleeping in a bed in a three-star hotel. Of course, being a new normal crossover, the Scenic features Safety Coach which assesses driving behavior and habits to provide tailored advice on driving style and ADAS use. Bossy, eh?

There you have it. The all-new Renault Scenic E-TECH made us forget about the Scenics of yesteryears because from now on, this is one we should stick to our heads. Sadly, it's not going to be easy because as today's customers are showing lukewarm interest in electric cars, they are better off with a crossover that looks just like it, except for every single detail.

2025 Renault Symbioz

2025 Renault Symbioz

This is the first-ever Renault Symbioz and don't let its name fool you. It may bear the name of a funky 2017 concept car but, in reality, it's just another hybrid crossover made to tackle the likes of the Peugeot 2008. Priced at 33,400 Euros plus additional costs, it's slightly more expensive than the 2008.

2025 Renault Symbioz interior

Although the Symbioz bears the same front face as today's Scenic, the rear and side view look like it came from today's Kia Sportage. Same Renault gadgetry aside, the spacing of the Symbioz is smaller than the Scenic because it's capable of carrying up to 1455 liters of boot space. Still, it can carry up to five people. No problem.

2025 Renault Symbioz

Front-wheel-drive only as expected, just like the Scenic, the Symbioz is powered by the same 1.6L E-TECH 145 hybrid powertrain as the Arkana. Mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox, it has a 0-100kph time of 10.6 seconds, slower than the Scenic, and it has the same top speed as the Scenic E-Tech. 170kph to be exact.

Sure, it still packs the nagging Safety Coach that tells your driving style as well as ADAS recommendations but because it uses the same platform as today's Clio, it's less bulky to drive than the Scenic. Mind you, this is straightforward compared to this...

2025 Renault Rafale

The 45,000 Euro Renault Rafale. Named after a multirole jet used by the French Navy, it's the exact opposite of its namesake. Despite the irony, this is the Top Gun of the Renault SUV lineup.

2025 Renault Rafale

2025 Renault Rafale interior

Despite being a coupe crossover just like its main rival, the Peugeot 408, the Rafale is the most spacious of the Renault crossovers with up to 1910 liters of boot space with the rear seats folded down. It still packs the usual Renault tech such as the OpenR Link, Safety Coach, and others, but because it has AI-powered capabilities, the Rafale is another one of the production cars that plunged into the dark side of AI connectivity.

In addition to the 1.2L Turbo E-TECH Hybrid powertrain with 200PS of power output mated to a 6-speed AT with 4.7L/100km of fuel economy, the Rafale features the 300PS 1.2L Turbo PHEV powertrain where the combination of the petrol engine and the electric motor powering all four wheels, making it the only 4WD in the Renault SUV lineup. Armed with the 6-speed AT, it does 0-100kph in 6.4 seconds and has the top speed of a standard Japanese car or a present-day Volvo. Fuel economy is around 0.5L/100km and running on electricity only, it can go up to 105km.

Coupled with MULTI-SENSE and the Megane-derived 4CONTROL system, the Rafale is about as close as enjoyable as the now-defunct Renaultsport Megane. Close but no baguette. The same goes for the 4x4 PHEV variant but good while feeling under the weather.

Three Renault crossovers of 2024 bear such ironies. The Scenic of today has nothing to do with the Scenics of the past, the Symbioz has nothing to do with the concept car namesake, and the Rafale is not as cool as its fighter jet namesake. Differences aside, these crossovers made such a statement and in the end, it's the Rafale that stands out not because...well, you get the idea. Case closed.

Photo: Renault

BMW X2 U10 and iX2

The BMW X2 is now in its second generation and it gained its all-electric iX2 equivalent. So, what's it all about the all-new X2 and the first-ever iX2? Come here and let's explain.

2025 BMW X2

2025 BMW iX2

The BMW X2 U10, starting at 47,500 Euros plus additional costs, and the first-ever BMW iX2, starting at 49,900 Euros plus additional costs, showcased something that the predecessor failed to be, a proper coupe-crossover sized to X1 proportions.

While the coupe-crossover is something the all-new X2 wanted to be, there's something about its new looks. It looks like a mini-me XM, especially the crazy XM-styled front face. At the back, BMW borrowed something from Mazda's design department for the taillights.

2025 BMW X2 interior

Like its X1 equivalent, the all-new BMW X2 has an interior similar to the latest 2-Series Active Tourer. It has the new BMW Curved Display, which takes center stage on the driver's side. The display runs on the latest BMW Operating System 9, which has noticeable features, including voice control that works like Alexa. Unfortunately, the new model has a floating center console that removes the storage space under the armrest, making it more difficult to store your stuff. On the plus side, the X2 has more interior space than the previous model.

2025 BMW iX2

Because it runs on the improved FF platform just like its X1 equivalent, the X2 U10 feels slightly improved compared to the previous model, although unhappy about it.

Under the hood, the X2 is offered with the choice of a 1.5L petrol with 48V mild hybrid system, a 1.5L diesel, and exclusive to the M35i xDrive variant, a 2.0L turbo engine with 300PS of power. Mated to a seven-speed DCT, it does 0-100kph in 5.4 seconds and an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph.

The iX2, with its 64.8kWh lithium battery pack, is offered with a choice from a 150kW eDrive20 with 459km of driving range up to the 230kW xDrive30 variant that propels this SUV to a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds and a top speed of a Japanesey 180kph. If the iX2 is good enough on the streets of Tokyo, it's good enough on the streets of Berlin.

Both the new X2 and the iX2 are armed with the most advanced safety features offered. These include the Driving Assistant package with AEB, passive cruise control, and Parking Assistant, among others.

The X2 is the coupe-crossover equivalent of the X1 and this new version is literal indeed, although the XM-styled nose is something the neighborhood should look out for. Still, with its slightly improved packaging and the addition of the iX2 made the all-new X2 worth noticeable from top to bottom. In the end, this is the new normal, after all.

Photo: BMW AG 

Infiniti QX80 (Second Generation)

The all-new Infiniti QX80 is a second-generation full-size luxury SUV that rewrites the rules for what an SUV should be. It can go off-road while delivering fancy living for high rollers from Dubai to New York. Let's take a look at the new model.

2025 Infiniti QX80

With prices starting at $82,450 plus additional costs, the all-new QX80 is cheaper to own than the titanic Range Rover, although this is the most expensive Infiniti emerged. Still, this new look signaled a new era for the luxury brand of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

2025 Infiniti QX80

The second-generation Infiniti QX80 is the first to wear the new Infiniti logo. This one shines up front, which may be a bit too flashy for some observers. After all, an illuminated front badge is about as flashy as Christmas lights on a pine tree but it's not as flashy as the available Infiniti underglows. While incorporating the new Infiniti design language, the squarish looks are now edgier than its predecessor, giving an idea of what is life to be like in the mega box.

2025 Infiniti QX80

Inside, the all-new QX80 improves the first-class experience from its predecessor, giving both the driver and passenger the same experience they expect from a business-class flight. The driver's side is packed with tech arsenals such as the panoramic widescreen that features the digital instrumental panel to the left and the touch screen to the right, the class-first available Biometric Cooling technology, Tri-Zone Climate Control System, kabuki-inspired 64-color interior lighting design, and Klipsch sound system with up to 24 speakers, including ones at the headrest.

Yes, it has third-row seats that can accommodate seven or eight people, standard heated and available climate-controlled first- and second-row seating complemented by available heated seating in the third row, and a power-sliding panoramic moonroof featuring one-touch open/close technology. It has up to 22 cu.ft. of interior cargo volume, making it spacious enough for a perfectly straightforward shooting weekend.

2025 Infiniti QX80

The real treat of the all-new QX80 is what's under the hood as the old model's V8 engine was scrapped and replaced by Infiniti's brand-new 3.5L V6 Twin Turbo engine that produces 450hp of power and 516lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 9-speed AT, it has a combined fuel economy of 17MPG and a towing capacity of 8500 lbs.

In terms of dynamics, the all-new QX80 features independent double wishbones, speed-sensitive rack-pinion electric power assist steering, all-season tires, INFINITI All-Mode 4WD, brake-actuated LSD, and available Dynamic Digital Suspension. It's still bulky to drive but it's now surprisingly more civilized and classy on and off the road.

Redefining the rules of safety, the all-new QX80 is the first Infiniti to feature the optional ProPILOT Assist 2.1 technology for hands-free driving on the motorways. It even features Steering Assist, Intelligent Cruise Control, Front Wide View, Invisible Hood View, Smart Rearview Mirror, 3D Around View Monitor with Spin Capability and Moving Object Detection, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Warning and Blind Spot Intervention, and leading-edge far-side airbag technology.

The all-new Infiniti QX80 rewrites the rules for what an SUV should be. It's the most expensive Infiniti in the range, but its price is lower than today's Range Rover. This means that the "out-on-a-limo" feeling is within reach, even if you're a super-rich high-roller who prefers cruising downtown from New York to Dubai. This is first-class luxury reasserted, the Infiniti way.

Available Colors: Anthracite Gray, Mineral Black, Coulis Red, Black Obsidian, Radiant White, Grand Blue, Dynamic Metal, Radiant White/Black Obsidian Two-Tone, Mineral Black/Black Obsidian Two-Tone, Coulis Red/Black Obsidian Two-Tone, Grand Blue/Black Obsidian Two-Tone, and Dynamic Metal/Black Obsidian Two-Tone.

Photo: INFINITI

KGM Actyon (J120)

Long before the BMW X6, there was the Actyon. Launched in the autumn of 2005, the Actyon is the world's first sports utility coupe. Hot on the heels of its 20th anniversary, the Actyon returns as the coupe version of the Torres.

2025 KGM Actyon

Starting at 33.95 Million Won plus additional costs, the Actyon is back as the coupe version of the Torres, the crossover that made Ssangyong born again as KGM.

2025 KGM Actyon

Beginning with the design, the Actyon is nearly identical to the Torres but with an illuminating front grille reminiscent of the lines from the South Korean flag, showing its nationalism on four wheels. Although the Torres-esque looks is the tip of the iceberg, the rear view can be broadly mistaken for today's Range Rover Evoque. Can't blame them.

2025 KGM Actyon interior

The all-new Actyon's interior, like the exterior itself, is also a resemblance of the Torres but the differences are the steering wheel and the center console. On the driver's side, you are greeted with a panoramic wide screen with two 12.3 inch screens with the first half as the cluster and the latter half a touchscreen with INFOCONN that takes charge of the car in terms of airconditioning, telematics, entertainment, smartphone connectivity, and so on. It can be nerve-wracking for first-timers but it takes time to get used to it.

With the rear seats folded down, the all-new Actyon has up to 1,568 liters of boot space, which is less than the Torres because of its coupe formation.

2025 KGM Actyon

The all-new Actyon is powered by the same 1.5L T-GDi engine from the Torres mated to an Aisin 6-speed AT. This engine produces 170PS of power and 28.6kg-m of torque. It even comes with an ISG system that shuts the engine off when stopped at the red light and then restarts when set off. In FF configurations, it has a combined fuel economy of 11kmpl while AWD variants get 10.1kmpl.

The all-new Actyon has front MacPherson struts and rear multilink suspension. The front brakes are ventilated discs and the rear brakes are discs.

Sturdy bodywork and eight airbags aside, the all-new Actyon features DeepControl, a suite of ADAS such as Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection warning, Blind Spot Detection Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist, and Safety Exit Warning.

The all-new Actyon is no longer the one you've been familiar with since your high school days. It's now a muscular sports utility coupe that blends its Korean nationalism, the KGM way. After all, isn't what KGM's slogan is all about? Korea Great Mobility. Although not as great as the X6 and the Evoque, it's the bargain of the season.

Available Colors: Royal Copper, Royal Copper 2 Tone, Grand White, Grand White 2 Tone, Latte Greige, Latte Greige 2 Tone, Iron Metal, Iron Metal 2 Tone, Forest Green, Forest Green 2 Tone, Dandy Blue, and Space Black.

Photo: KGM

Lincoln Nautilus (2nd Gen)

The Lincoln Nautilus is a luxury SUV that was based on the Ford Edge. Sadly, the Edge has been discontinued, so the Nautilus is now on its own as it approaches its second generation.

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

Starting below 52 grand in US Dollars plus additional costs, the second-generation Nautilus has matured into a sophisticated crossover that caters to even the most prolific East Coast elites with its new-era Lincoln styling, premium interior, and a suite of tech to toy with.

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

By adopting the new-era Lincoln styling inspired by the Star Concept, the all-new Nautilus tries its hand at being frank and polite to its owners. Whether if its kitted with the available Jet Appearance package or indulged in the ultra-premium Black Label, the all-new Nautilus is all about making a statement while cruising from Brooklyn to Wall Street.

2025 Lincoln Nautilus interior

The biggest surprise is its new interior and by first impression, it feels like you're driving a concept car from the future. The Lincoln Digital Experience features the largest panoramic display in its class as well as the 11.1-inch center-stack Touchscreen with Google software involved. Call it flashy but its futuristic dashboard layout showcases the loud and proud side of Lincoln's calm, cool, and collected status.

Along with the Revel Ultima 3D audio system, wireless charging ports, and the Lincoln Connect, the all-new Nautilus features an available Digital Scent where drivers can insert whatever scent cartridges they have and release it on its air conditioning. There are different scent cartridges available to purchase so don't be shy.

To deliver sedan-riding comfort for this five-seater crossover, the all-new Nautilus features an array of relaxing features such as Perfect Position massaging seats, and the available Auto Air Refresh. As for boot space, it's between the 70 cu. ft. mark with the rear seats folded down.

2025 Lincoln Nautilus

The all-new Nautilus features a choice of a 2.0L turbo and a 2.0L turbo hybrid with the latter producing 310HP of power and a combined EPA-estimated mileage of 30MPG courtesy of its CVT. The petrol variant is mated to an 8-speed AT. Although heavier than the old one, the all-new Nautilus tries hard to be civilized with its independent suspension setups, power 4-wheel disc with Anti-Lock Braking System, AdvanceTrrac with Roll Stability Control, and EPAS. It's spacious, versatile, and comfortable at its own pace.

Although an array of ADAS is not absent for the all-new Nautilus, it features Lincoln's BlueCruise 1.2 with improved versions of its ADAS features from hands-free driving, Lane Change Assist, the new In-Lane Repositioning ability, and other improvements worth noticing.

The all-new Lincoln Nautilus has matured even without its Ford Edge benefactor, and although costly to have one because it's "made in China", it tries to be calm, cool, and collected while navigating the East Coast traffic chaos at ease. 

New Yorkers, here's your new Nautilus.

Photo: Ford Motor Company

Kia EV3 vs Hyundai Casper Electric

The first-ever Kia EV3 all-electric crossover slots in as the most affordable model in Kia’s lineup of electric crossovers, with prices starting at 39.95 million won (around $33,000). While it is the most affordable of Kia’s electric crossovers, it’s still not cheap. After factoring in additional costs like taxes and registration, the price of an EV3 will likely be closer to $40,000. That’s still a solid value for an all-electric crossover from a reputable automaker.

2025 Kia EV3

A concept turned reality, the EV3 takes over the void left by the Soul when it was gutted off from the lineup three years ago, moments after the new Kia logo's unveiling.

2025 Kia EV3

The EV3 is a concept car turned reality. It fills the gap left by the Soul crossover, which was discontinued three years ago. The EV3 has nearly identical styling to the concept car it was inspired by, and it's sized like the defunct Soul. This compact size makes it easy to live with, though it's obviously also a "mini-me" EV9. The cubic-styled wheel designs add a nice touch and give the vehicle a distinctive and futuristic look. It looks like something straight out of Tetris.

2025 Kia EV3 interior

The Kia EV3 also features a minimalist interior. The materials used to construct the cabin are also recycled. It’s a great look that makes sense for an electric vehicle. Plus, you’ll feel good about reducing waste every time you get behind the wheel. 

While drivers are greeted by its 30-inch screen on the driver's side with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a five-inch air-conditioning touch panel, there's one annoying feature that will ruin someone from his or her sweet spot; the Kia EV-first AI assistant that works just like the Amazon Alexa nonsense.

Of course, being a five-seater crossover, the EV3's rear seats can be folded down for added space. It even comes with a rear hidden compartment to store some more. Having a compact crossover with a 25-litre frunk and a 460-litre boot really means business, especially if it's a Kia.

2025 Kia EV3

Built on the Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP, the EV3's electric powertrain runs on a 400V architecture and an 81.4-kWh NMC battery for the Long Range variant while Standard Range variants run on a 58.3-kWh NMC battery. Both variants run on a front-mounted electric motor that produces 204PS of power and 283Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h. Fair enough.

The Long Range variant is good for up to 501km of driving range in one full charge and it will take around 30 minutes to reach from 10% to 80% while charging at a public charging station.

Being front-wheel-drive only, the EV3 features eDTVC for better traction for moderate reasons. It even comes with the new i-Pedal 3.0 regenerative braking with one-pedal operation just like the Nissan Leaf. As for safety, the EV3 is prepped with notable features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Highway Driving Assist, Reverse Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Remote Smart Parking Assist, among others. 

The Kia EV3 crossover is the baby of the Kia EV lineup. There's also the recently facelifted EV6 and the king-sized EV9. The EV3 looks like the concept car it was inspired by, and it's sized like the discontinued Soul crossover. It's a compact size that's easy to handle in the city. I'm not sure how I feel about the AI assistant. It's kind of annoying and might be hard for people to fall asleep in the back seat.

However, if you find the Kia EV3 too expensive or too annoying because of the AI assistant injected inside, there is a cheaper and simpler alternative: the Hyundai Casper Electric.

2025 Hyundai Casper Electric

2025 Hyundai Casper Electric interior

Priced at 31,493,670 Korean Won plus additional costs, the simple-looking Casper Electric brings everything Koreans loved about the Casper, now with the all-electric powertrain to back it up.

Although it looks and feels just like its petrol-powered equivalent, the Casper Electric features specifically-made front lamps, tail lights, and a new interior featuring a new digital instrumental cluster and touchscreen that are longer than the one from the normal Casper. Asked about the boot space, it's good for up to 351 liters with the rear seats folded down. It's offered only in one variant with five seats.

Bolted to a front-mounted electric motor and a 49 kWh battery, the Casper Electric produces 115PS of power and 147Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 150kph. As for driving range, it's good for up to 315km on one full charge.

The Casper Electric features a wide array of safety techs such as lane keeping assist, lane following assist, blind spot collision avoidance assist, forward collision-avoidance assist 1.5, and parking collision avoidance assist rear. It even comes with rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, safety exit warning, smart cruise control with stop-and-go, highway driving assist 1.5 (HDA 1.5), intelligent speed limit assist, driver attention warning, high beam assist, leading vehicle departure alert, and rear occupant alert.

To sum things up, the Kia EV3 is the more expensive and feature-rich of the two, and it's also a larger car. The Hyundai Casper Electric, on the other hand, is more affordable and simpler. Both are fun to drive, but I would recommend the Casper Electric to people who are on a budget or who don't need all the bells and whistles.

The more you know...

Photo: Kia, Hyundai