DECEMBER 2025
Prelude voted Best Coupe and the bold new Super N Prototype revealed
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
2026 CX-60 and CX-80
Euro NCAP Results
all-new Peugeot 308 and 308 SW
HONDA SCORES DOUBLE VICTORY
Honda Celebrates
Double
Success with Prelude ‘Best Coupe’ Win and Global Premiere of the New Super-N Prototype
Honda is entering 2026 with major momentum, marked by two significant milestones: the all-new Prelude e:HEV securing the title of ‘Best Coupe’ at the 2025/2026 New Car World
Championships, and the global unveiling of the Super-N Prototype, a bold new compact electric vehicle destined for select global markets including Great Britain.
Prelude Named ‘Best Coupe’ at New Car World Championships
Making its long-awaited return after 25 years, the Honda Prelude has impressed judges and enthusiasts alike with its blend of advanced hybrid technology, innovative Honda S+ Shift, and a sleek, modern design that carries forward the model’s heritage of delivering the pure “joy of driving.”
The Prelude’s recognition as ‘Best Coupe’ by the Best Cars of the Year organisation reinforces the strength of Honda’s engineering. Speaking on the win, Prelude chief engineer Tomoyuki Yamagami likened the development process to “creating a wonderful dish using the best ingredients,” adding that the team’s
focus on powertrain performance, handling and the bespoke S+ mode resulted in a car that becomes “better the more you experience it.”
Japan-based judge Peter Lyon highlighted how Honda has elevated familiar components into something entirely new. Borrowing elements such as the Civic Type R’s chassis, suspension, and Brembo brake package, as well as the 200 hp hybrid engine from the Civic e:HEV, the Prelude delivers far more excitement than the sum of its parts. Lyon praised Honda’s reimagining of the CVT with an authentic eight-speed shift pattern, paddle controls, and the S+ Shift mode that
Global Debut of the Super-N Prototype
At the Japan Mobility Show, Honda also showcased its forward-looking vision for electrification with the world premiere of the Super-N Prototype, a compact EV built on the lightest platform of Japan’s N Series ‘Kei’ range. Shown earlier in the year as the Super EV Concept at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the production-preview prototype stands out with its wide stance, bold blistered bumpers, and functional aero ducts that emphasise agility and modern design.
Inside, the sporty theme continues with blue-accented asymmetrical seats and a clean, horizontal instrument panel, all crafted to heighten anticipation for the car’s nimble and responsive driving character.
A key highlight is the new BOOST mode, which increases output for maximum performance while
simulating multi-gear shifts using Active Sound Control. Paired with dedicated interior displays and lighting sequences, BOOST mode brings an engaging and immersive driving feel rarely seen in a vehicle of this size.
Rebecca Adamson noted that the Super-N Prototype will serve as an exciting gateway into Honda’s electric range when it arrives in Great Britain in 2026, echoing the strong interest shown at Goodwood: “By bringing Honda’s trademark ‘fun-to-drive’ performance to a compact all-electric model, we believe this is a unique proposition.”
While there are currently no plans to expand the model into additional European markets, Honda will use the Super-N’s reception to gauge demand for future small EVs in the region.
automatically downshifts with a blip when entering corners—features that set the Prelude apart in its segment.
Rebecca Adamson, Head of Automobile for Honda Motor Europe – UK, expressed her delight at the accolade: “Driving enthusiasts around the world have been eagerly awaiting the return of this iconic nameplate, and we’re thrilled that the new Prelude is already award-winning.”
The Prelude is powered by Honda’s refined e:HEV full hybrid system, pairing a 2.0-litre petrol engine with a dual-motor automatic transmission to deliver 184 PS (135 kW), responsive acceleration, excellent efficiency and impressive refinement. UK customers will be able to order the Prelude from 7 November 2025 through Honda’s omni-channel sales experience—online, in-store, or a combination of both.
MAZDA REVEALS FUTURE AND UPGRADES
Mazda Unveils 2026 CX-60 and CX-80
Enhancements for the UK, Alongside Vision Models Showcased at Japan Mobility Show
Mazda is preparing for a significant year ahead, with the updated 2026 Mazda CX-60 and CX-80 set to arrive in the UK in summer 2026, while also reflecting on the strong reception of two forward-looking concept models—the MAZDA VISION X-COUPE and MAZDA VISION X-COMPACT—which were unveiled on 29 October at the Japan Mobility Show 2025. Together, these developments showcase Mazda’s commitment to premium craftsmanship, intelligent technology, and a future centred on sustainable, human-focused mobility.
Refined Premium SUVs: 2026
Mazda CX-60 and CX-80
Mazda’s flagship SUVs will arrive with a comprehensive package of updates that strengthen their position in the premium segment. While both models retain their elegant exterior design, Exclusive-Line grades now adopt new 20-inch alloy wheels, replacing the previous 18-inch versions. The CX-60 features a metallic silver finish, while the CX-80 receives bright silver alloys. Additionally, Mazda’s popular Polymetal Grey paint colour will be available on both models for the first time.
Inside, Mazda continues to emphasise its Crafted in Japan philosophy with an interior that blends real maple wood, Nappa leather, and Japanese textiles. For 2026, Homura and Homura Plus variants gain a new tan interior option that includes quilted Nappa leather seats, a two-tone leather steering wheel, and a suede-look dashboard. Comfort is further improved across all grades with the addition of noise-insulating frontdoor glass, enhancing cabin refinement.
Safety equipment has also been elevated. Reinforcing their Euro NCAP 5-star rating, both models now come with Driver Emergency Assist (DEA) as standard. Working with Driver Monitoring, DEA detects sudden medical emergencies and safely brings the vehicle to a controlled stop, unlocking the doors for emergency responders. The 2026 CX-60 also inherits several key technologies first introduced on the CX-80, including Smart Brake Support Head-on, Emergency Lane Keeping Head-on Traffic Avoidance Assist, and from Exclusive-Line upwards, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Front Cross Traffic Braking, and Towing Hitch Guide. Additional features such as Cruising & Traffic Support with Unresponsive Driver Support and Smart Brake Support Rear Crossing are also available.
Enhancing everyday usability, the new models introduce Amazon Alexa voice recognition, enabling natural speech commands for navigation, entertainment, and connected services. The CX-60 further benefits from a hybrid navigation system with alternative routing, point-of-interest search, and seven years of free map updates.
In line with Mazda’s sustainability goals, the diesel-powered CX-60 and CX-80 now comply with Euro6e-bis emissions regulations and are approved for HVO 100 biofuel, supporting cleaner, renewable motoring.
Vision Models Preview Mazda’s Future Direction
At the Japan Mobility Show on 29 October, Mazda presented two striking concept vehicles that illustrate its long-term vision: the MAZDA VISION X-COUPE and the MAZDA VISION X-COMPACT.
The VISION X-COUPE advances Mazda’s KODO design language with a dramatic crossover-coupe silhouette. Its plug-in hybrid system pairs a two-rotor rotary turbo engine with an electric motor to produce 510 PS, delivering up to 160 km of EV range and 800 km combined. When operated with carbon-neutral microalgae fuel and Mazda’s “Mobile Carbon Capture” technology, the vehicle actively reduces atmospheric CO₂.
The VISION X-COMPACT explores the emotional bond between drivers and their cars. Using a human-sensory digital model and empathetic AI, it can engage in natural conversation and suggest destinations—positioning itself as a smart, companion-like mobility partner.
Also showcased to the public for the first time was the All-New Mazda CX-5 (European specification), featuring a refined KODO design, spacious interior, and Mazda’s new E/E Architecture+ platform.
Mazda CEO Masahiro Moro captured the company’s direction: “The joy of driving fuels a sustainable tomorrow,” reaffirming Mazda’s belief that driving enjoyment and environmental responsibility can coexist.
Read more...
Euro NCAP Safety Results for the Micra & Qashqai
The Nissan Micra, positioned in the City and Supermini class and recognised as the sister model to the Renault 5 assessed by Euro NCAP in 2024, recorded an 80% score (32.3 points) for Adult Occupant protection. In the frontal offset impact test, the passenger cabin maintained its structural integrity, and assessments showed that whiplash protection in rear-end collisions was strong for both front and rear seat occupants.
Nissan has announced the latest Euro NCAP safety assessment results for its Micra and Qashqai models. According to its press release, the Micra has achieved a child occupant protection score of 80% (39.5 points), while the Qashqai has scored 85% (41.8 points) in the same category. These results
underline Nissan’s continued emphasis on ensuring strong protection for younger passengers.
While the Nissan press release focuses on the headline childoccupant numbers, these high scores suggest that both vehicles benefit from well-engineered crash-protection systems in scenarios involving children, which are among the most critical and challenging tests in vehicle safety assessments.
By highlighting these Euro NCAP results, Nissan is reinforcing its reputation for occupant safety, particularly for families, and demonstrating that both the Micra and Qashqai deliver very solid protection for their youngest passengers.
Accelerating Development
with AI: Extending the NissanMonolith Partnership
In a second announcement, Nissan revealed that it is deepening its collaboration with UK-based artificial intelligence firm Monolith, extending their strategic partnership through to 2027. The stated purpose of this extended relationship is to reduce
Nissan’s reliance on physical testing during vehicle development, by using AI to simulate and predict test outcomes.
How AI Is Applied to Testing
At the heart of this innovation is the use of Monolith’s machine-learning models at Nissan Technical Centre Europe in Cranfield. These models have been trained on decades of historical test data, enabling them to predict crash-test performance and the outcomes of other physical evaluations with a high degree of accuracy. By leveraging these predictions, Nissan can dramatically reduce the number of physical prototypes it needs to build, thereby saving both time and resources.
A concrete example presented in the announcement relates to tests on bolt-joint torque. Rather than performing every physical test, Nissan engineers used Monolith’s AI to recommend optimal torque ranges and to prioritise which physical tests to run. This approach yielded a 17 per cent reduction in physical testing compared to a traditional, non–AI-assisted process.
Strategic and Operational Gains
Nissan projects that, by scaling up this AI-driven testing methodology across its European model range, it could halve the total time required for physical testing across the development programme. According to Emma Deutsch, Director of Customer-Oriented Engineering & Test Operations at Nissan, the use of AI allows engineers to “simulate and validate vehicle performance,” reducing dependency on physical prototypes. This in turn frees up engineering teams to focus on design optimisation, problem-solving and creative development, all while reducing resource use and lowering the environmental footprint of testing. To support this vision, Monolith offers specific tools: a Next Test Recommender, which helps suggest which physical test would be most useful next, and an Anomaly Detector, which identifies unexpected or unusual predicted outcomes in simulations that might warrant further investigation.
Dr Richard Ahlfeld, CEO of Monolith, emphasises that their objective is to “empower engineers with AI tools that unlock smarter, faster product development.” He notes that the partnership with Nissan is a clear demonstration of how machine-learning technology can drive efficiency, reduce resource consumption, and speed up development cycles without compromising the quality and safety of the final product.
Broader Strategic Context
This AI-driven testing strategy is closely aligned with Nissan’s wider RE:Nissan turnaround plan, which places a strong emphasis on innovation, operational efficiency, and reducing time-to-market for new vehicles. By significantly reducing the need for physical prototyping, Nissan can potentially bring new models to market more quickly and costeffectively, all while maintaining high standards of safety and performance.
THE ALL-NEW PEUGEOT 308 and 308 SW
Design Refinement:
Exterior and Interior
Both the hatch and the estate are offered in three trim levels: Allure, GT, and GT Premium, each featuring a host of upgrades. The cars wear an illuminated front grille with the new Peugeot shield, new alloy wheels, a gloss-black rear skirt, and distinctive 3D LED rear lights with the iconic “3-claw” signature.
Colour options vary: the hatch comes standard in a new metallic Lagoa Blue, while the SW estate has Ingaro Blue as its standard shade. Both versions are also available in Okenite White, Selenium Grey, Cumulus Grey, Elixir Red, and Nera Black.
Inside, standard features across all trims include powerfolding door mirrors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and Peugeot’s signature i-Cockpit with a 10-inch touchscreen and wireless Mirror Screen functionality. There are also four USB-C ports (two front, two rear) and refreshed graphics in the digital instrument cluster.
Trim-Specific Features
• Allure: Comes with full LED headlights, new “3-claw” daytime running lights, rear parking sensors, and an HD reversing camera. Interior décor includes dynamic front seats with “Tremezzo” fabric trim and fabric dashboard and door panels.
• GT: Adds Matrix LED technology, sequential indicators that trace the claw shape, an illuminated grille and badge, 18-inch diamond-cut wheels, a leather steering wheel with a GT logo, and “Uzila” seat trim with green stitching and Alcantara touches. Also includes Peugeot’s i-Connect Navigation and configurable i-Toggles for shortcuts.
• GT Premium: This is the new top-spec trim and includes heated Alcantara® front seats with multi-point massage (8 programmes) and electric driver seat adjustment, a heated steering wheel, a 360° camera system, 3D digital instrument panel, Clean Cabin system, puddle light projection of the Peugeot shield, and driver assist features (adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, lane-position assist, blind-spot detection, rear crosstraffic alert).
Peugeot has announced that orders are now open for its all-new 308 hatchback and 308 SW estate models, with first customer deliveries expected this November. These models represent an evolution in Peugeot’s design language, combining a dynamic low-profile silhouette with enhanced connectivity, comfort, and more efficient powertrains.
Powertrain Options
Peugeot is offering four powertrains for the new 308 and 308 SW:
• Electric: The revised E-308 delivers 156 hp and 270 Nm of torque, with a WLTP range of 279 miles for the hatchback and 275 miles for the estate. It uses a 58.4 kWh (55.4 kWh usable) battery and supports three levels of regenerative braking, adjusted via paddles on the steering wheel. On GT Premium (and optionally on other trims), a heat pump is fitted to improve cabin heating efficiency. Charging is supported via an 11-kW onboard charger (20–80% in around 3 h 35 min on AC), or a 100 kW DC rapid charger (20–80% in just 32 minutes).
• Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Combines a 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine (150 hp) with a 125 hp electric motor and a 17.2 kWh battery, offering up to 53 miles of electric-only range (WLTP).
• Hybrid: A 48 V self-charging hybrid uses a 1.6-litre engine linked to a 16-kW electric motor and a 0.9 kWh battery, allowing purely electric driving for up to 1 km in low-speed traffic.
• Diesel: From March 2026, a 1.5-litre BlueHDi 130 diesel engine will be available, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission (EAT8), aimed at those covering long distances.
For customers choosing the electric versions, Peugeot offers its Electric Promise:
• 8-year / 100,000 miles warranty on the vehicle and on the battery
• A Free2Move Charge Pass, giving one-tap access to over 700,000 public chargers across the UK and Europe.
Pricing and Incentives
Peugeot has priced the new 308 and 308 SW more competitively than the previous generation, despite the richer specification. The hatchback starts at £29,995 OTR, while the estate version begins at £31,195 OTR.
The electric models also qualify for the UK Electric Car Grant (ECG), meaning a £1,500 deduction from the list price. After the grant, the E-308 starts at £30,995, and the E-308 SW at £32,195.
Read more...
HEY SMART SPENDER!
Škoda Enyaq steals the spotlight with top Carwow award
Škoda has kicked off 2026 in style, adding another trio of accolades to its growing collection. The new Enyaq, alongside the Elroq and
Kodiaq, impressed judges at the 2026 Carwow Car of the Year Awards, securing one category win and two Highly Commended honours.
Taking centre stage was the Škoda Enyaq, which claimed the coveted Smart Spender title thanks to its outstanding value for money. As Škoda’s first purpose-built electric vehicle, the Enyaq faced stiff competition but ultimately triumphed, with judges praising its balanced blend of practicality, quality and driving finesse.
Explaining the decision, Chief Content Officer Mat Watson said:
“Working out value-formoney can be tricky – pricing and finance deals change constantly – so I asked our leasing partner, Carwow Leasey, which models consistently delivered great value this year. The allelectric Škoda Enyaq was the standout. It has remained reliably low-cost to lease throughout 2025 and is simply a brilliant car: long-range, practical and genuinely good to drive.”
The Škoda Kodiaq also impressed, repeating its success from 2024 by being Highly Commended in the Adventurer’s Choice category.
Judges highlighted the seven-seater’s rugged capability and family-friendly interior, noting that it offers the feel of a large, premium SUV without the accompanying high running costs.
As Mat Watson put it: “If you want almost all the capability of a big, expensive SUV, but without the price tag or hefty fuel bills, the Škoda Kodiaq is the car for you.”
Completing Škoda’s hat-trick was the new Elroq, which earned a Highly Commended honour in the Family Values category. As Škoda’s most affordable electric SUV, the Elroq impressed judges with its thoughtful design, generous equipment and impressive driving range.
Watson said: “The Škoda Elroq is one of those cars I almost didn’t need to drive to know what it would be like –and that predictability is no bad thing. From the outset, it felt like a smaller version of the already excellent Enyaq: comfortable, spacious and packed with clever features. Add up to 360 miles of range and a smooth ride, and it’s a very complete package.”
Škoda’s continued success at the Carwow Awards is no surprise. Recent wins include the Superb
taking the Comfortable Cruiser title in 2025 and the Kodiaq earning a Buy It award in 2023.
These latest achievements add to what has been a standout year for the brand across the UK automotive landscape. In 2025, Škoda was crowned Manufacturer of the Year at the Great British Fleet Awards, where it also secured major category wins: the Kodiaq was named Best Fleet Large SUV, while the Superb took home Best Fleet Executive Car of the Year.
The momentum continued at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2025, where Škoda claimed four category wins. The all-electric Elroq led the charge, not only winning Best MidSize SUV but also being crowned Overall Car of the Year—a major endorsement of Škoda’s growing strength in the EV sector.
Meanwhile, at the UK Car of the Year Awards 2025, the ever-popular Superb added another trophy by securing the title of Best Family Car This latest recognition reinforces Škoda’s longstanding reputation for delivering style, practicality and value across its entire model range.
With the Enyaq, Elroq and Kodiaq continuing to gather awards, Škoda’s momentum shows no sign of slowing—proving once again that smart spending doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality, innovation or driving enjoyment.
BIG WINS FOR PV5 AND EV5
KIA CELEBRATES LANDMARK WINS WITH PV5 NAMED ‘2026 INTERNATIONAL VAN OF THE YEAR’ AND EV5 AWARDED FIVE-STAR EURO NCAP RATING
Kia is closing out 2025 with two major achievements that strengthen its position as a leader in electrified mobility. The company’s first purpose-built, all-electric van—the Kia PV5—has been crowned ‘2026 International Van of the Year’ (IVOTY), while the fully electric Kia EV5 has secured the maximum five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, underlining Kia’s engineering excellence across both commercial and passenger EV segments.
Kia PV5 Makes History as First Korean Van to Win IVOTY
Kia’s PV5 earned the prestigious IVOTY title on 19 November at the SOLUTRANS 2025 Gala in Lyon, France, marking the first time a Korean manufacturer has ever won the award. A jury of commercial vehicle journalists from 26 countries praised the PV5 for setting “a new benchmark for innovation, efficiency and capability” within the light commercial vehicle class.
Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the IVOTY jury, highlighted the PV5’s blend of zero-emission performance and real-world practicality: “It redefines what businesses can expect from a modern van.” Accepting the accolade, Kia President & CEO Ho Sung Song said the recognition reflects Kia’s deep understanding of business customer needs. He emphasised the PV5’s advanced E-GMP.S platform, refined design, and innovative production system—an integrated conveyor-and-cell approach that enables greater flexibility and environmental optimisation.
Despite competing against six new LCVs—including two other electric vans—the PV5 stood out thanks to its strong range, high payload capability, and rapidcharging performance. Offering up to 258 miles of all-electric WLTP range (Cargo L2H1), 256 miles for the five-seat Passenger model, and 10–80% DC charging in under 30 minutes, the PV5 delivers practicality without compromise. It also recently set a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for “the greatest distance travelled by a light-duty battery-electric van with maximum payload on a single charge,” covering 693.38 km (430.85 miles).
Kia Europe President & CEO Marc Hedrich called the award a milestone achievement: “Though new to the LCV market, this proves our readiness to deliver design, engineering and usability at the highest level.” The PV5, available in Cargo and Passenger configurations, will expand further from 2026 with Chassis Cab, short-wheelbase (L1H1) and High Roof (L2H2) variants. Larger PBV models—the PV7 and PV9—are already in development.
Kia EV5 Earns Top Euro NCAP Safety Score
Complementing the PV5’s success, Kia’s EV5 SUV has achieved the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP’s latest round of safety testing. The model impressed across all four categories: 83% adult occupant, 85% child occupant, 74% vulnerable road users, and 80% Safety Assist.
In crash testing, the EV5’s high-strength E-GMP platform provided a stable passenger compartment, with excellent knee, femur and whiplash protection. Side-impact performance was rated at the highest level, and all child restraint systems tested could be correctly installed. Additionally, the EV5’s AEB system delivered strong results when responding to vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists—particularly in cyclist scenarios.
Euro NCAP also praised the EV5’s extensive ADAS package, including Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, driver status monitoring, and a full suite of seatbelt reminders. An advanced eCall system and secondary-collision prevention capability further strengthen the EV5’s safety credentials.
Practical, Efficient, and Electric
Equipped with an 81.4 kWh battery and 160 kW motor, the EV5 delivers up to 530 km (329 miles) of WLTP range, making it well suited to daily driving or longdistance travel. Technologies such as regenerative braking, an advanced heat pump, and 30-minute rapid charging (10–80%) improve real-world efficiency. The EV5 began its European rollout in late 2025, reinforcing Kia’s commitment to widening access to zero-emission mobility.
Together, the PV5’s historic IVOTY win and the EV5’s safety accolade mark an important milestone for Kia as it accelerates toward a smarter, safer and fully electrified future.
The All-New MGS6 EV
Ready to Power Up Electric Driving
MG Motor UK has confirmed that the all-new MGS6 EV will arrive this month, introducing a fresh option in the competitive C-SUV electric segment. Equipped with a 77kWh battery, rear- or all-wheel drive, and the latest safety and infotainment technology, the MGS6 EV has already earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating and expands MG’s growing all-electric range alongside the recently launched IM6 SUV.
Three Versions, One Focus: Value Through Technology
MG will offer the MGS6 EV in three variants, each reflecting the brand’s commitment to delivering accessible innovation.
• SE Long Range
– Single motor, 180kW, and up to 329 miles WLTP range.*
• Trophy Long Range
– Same range and power as the SE, but with upgraded comfort and entertainment features.
• Trophy Dual Motor
– All-wheel drive, 266kW, 0–62mph in 5.1 seconds, and a 301-mile WLTP range.*
All models support rapid charging from 10–80% in 38 minutes, offer five drive modes and five regenerative braking settings— including One-Pedal mode.
The MGS6 EV is the third MG model to use the acclaimed Modular Scalable Platform, ensuring sharp handling, generous interior space and an impressively low cabin floor.
Modern, Spacious and Tech-Focused Interior
Inside, the MGS6 EV combines soft-touch materials with a clean, modern design. A 10.25-inch digital driver display and 12.8-inch central touchscreen are standard, while Trophy models add a head-up display, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats and an 11-speaker audio system.
New seat options include grey or beige leather-style upholstery with suede-effect inserts. Practicality is a key theme throughout, with over 30 interior storage features, a large centre-console compartment, and both a traditional boot and front ‘frunk’. Total luggage capacity reaches 1910 litres with the rear seats folded.
Connectivity is comprehensive. Trophy models include built-in apps such as YouTube, Spotify and Amazon Music, while all versions offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. MG’s iSMART app allows drivers to locate the car, check its range or pre-condition the cabin remotely.
Safety-Led Performance and Efficiency
Safety remains central to the MGS6 EV’s design. As well as its 5-star Euro NCAP score, the car includes seven airbags and MG Pilot driverassistance systems such as Active Emergency Braking, lane safety features, blind-spot detection, intelligent speed assist and driver monitoring. MG Pilot Custom lets drivers tailor which assistance features they want active.
MG has also partnered with Continental to equip the MGS6 EV with a new integrated braking booster system, enabling the SE and Trophy Long Range models to stop from 62mph in 36 metres.
The 77kWh battery helps deliver up to 329 miles of driving range on singlemotor models.* Five energy recovery modes and aerodynamic design features—including underbody panels and a drag coefficient of 0.27—help maximise efficiency.
Designed to Stand Out
The MGS6 EV brings a distinctive look to the MG family, borrowing design cues from the MG Cyberster with a sharp split grille, new LED light signatures and a polished MG badge. Upgraded aerodynamics, including an active grille shutter and aero wheel covers, add up to 30 miles of additional range. Two wheel designs are available: 19-inch Meteor alloys on SE models and 20-inch Gulfstream wheels on Trophy versions. The body uses over 80% high-strength steel for added rigidity, and a new Stratford Gold paint option joins MG’s popular colour palette.
A New Chapter for MG EVs
Priced from £37,995, the MGS6 EV becomes MG’s eighth fully electric vehicle in the UK. As Commercial Director Guy Pigounakis notes, the car embodies MG’s aim to deliver “accessible technology and genuinely fun-to-drive vehicles.” With its combination of range, equipment, space and safety, the MGS6 EV is positioned to attract a new wave of EV buyers to the brand.
ROAD READY
HONDA UNVEILS MAJOR 2026 LINE-UP AT EICMA 2025:
NEW CB1000GT, WN7 ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLE, V3R 900
E-COMPRESSOR PROTOTYPE AND EXPANDED E-CLUTCH RANGE
Honda has revealed an extensive range of new models and technologies for 2026 at EICMA 2025 in Milan, demonstrating its commitment to innovation across its petrol, hybrid and electric motorcycle lines. Headlining the showcase are the all-new CB1000GT sports tourer and the global debut of Honda’s first fullsized electric motorcycle, the Honda WN7. They are joined by the striking V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype, which represents a worldfirst engine concept, an expanded Honda E-Clutch line-up, updated scooters and colourways, the European debut of the CB1000F, and a refreshed Honda apparel collection.
CB1000GT: A Flagship Sports Tourer for LongDistance Performance
The new CB1000GT brings a premium, fully equipped sportstouring option to Honda’s range. Powered by the Fireblade-derived engine shared with the CB1000 Hornet, the GT blends sharp performance with exceptional comfort. Aerodynamic bodywork shaped through CFD modelling provides high-speed stability and strong weather protection, while Showa EERA suspension ensures plush ride quality on long journeys and agility when the roads get twisty. Standard equipment is extensive: throttle-by-wire, cornering ABS governed by a six-axis IMU, quickshifter, cruise control, heated grips, rear panniers, Honda RoadSync connectivity, knuckle guards, autocancelling indicators, a centre stand and Emergency Stop Signal. The CB1000GT thus offers both touring luxury and sporting capability.
Honda WN7: Honda’s First Full-Sized Electric Motorcycle
Making its world premiere at EICMA, the Honda WN7 marks Honda’s entry into full-size electric motorcycling. Developed under the theme “Be the wind,” it offers quiet, smooth, refined performance with instant EV acceleration. Extensive European test miles have ensured the WN7 maintains Honda’s unmistakable balance, poise and riding enjoyment.
Powered by a 9.3 kWh lithiumion battery and 18 kW motor, the A2-compliant WN7 delivers a 140 km range and supports both home charging and CCS2 car-charging, completing a 20–80% top-up in just 30 minutes. Features include multiple power modes, regenerative braking control, Walking Speed Mode (forward and reverse), Selectable Speed Limit Assist, cornering ABS, Honda Selectable Torque Control and distinctive LED lighting with a new EV-focused Honda logo. The WN7 also leads Honda’s refreshed EV branding for two-wheelers.
V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype: A Glimpse of a New Engine
Era
Also on display is the dramatic V3R 900 E-Compressor Prototype, powered by a world-first V3 engine with electronically controlled compressor. Evolving from the V3 concept unveiled in 2024, the 900 cc, 75-degree V-angle engine produces performance comparable to a 1200 cc unit thanks to precise, electronic boost control that delivers strong torque at any rpm.
Developed under the concept “Nonrail Rollercoaster,” the prototype aims to combine adrenaline-charged performance with reassuring stability. Its asymmetric fairings and the debut of the new “Honda Flagship Wing” emblem signal Honda’s future premium design direction. Development continues toward a production machine that redefines riding excitement.
Honda E-Clutch Expands to Five More Models
Honda’s innovative E-Clutch system—first offered on the CBR650R and CB650R—will be available on five additional 26YM models: XL750 Transalp, CB750 Hornet, NX500, CBR500R and CB500 Hornet. Faster and smoother than a quickshifter, E-Clutch allows riders to start, stop and shift without touching the clutch lever, while retaining manual-clutch capability when desired.
On the Transalp and Hornet, the system works with throttle-by-wire to provide perfectly rev-matched downshifts and improved traction control during off-road wheelspin.
Its introduction on 500 cc models also brings this technology to A2licence riders for the first time.
Updated SH125i, CB1000F and New Colours
Europe’s best-selling scooter, the SH125i, receives sharper styling, a new light signature and a five-inch TFT display. An SH150 variant will join in select markets.
Also appearing is the retro-inspired CB1000F, offering Fireblade-powered performance with timeless naked styling. Honda is additionally unveiling new colours for the NC750X, SH350i, Gold Wing and Gold Wing Tour.
New Honda Apparel Collection
Rounding out Honda’s presence is an expanded line of official apparel inspired by iconic models and Honda’s motorsport heritage. The full 26YM collection will be available from spring 2026 in dealerships and online.
FROM NORTON WAY
As we approach the end of the year, we would like to extend our sincere thanks for your continued partnership and support. It has been a pleasure working with you throughout 2025.
From all of us at Norton Way Group, we wish you and your families a joyful Christmas and a happy, successful New Year. We look forward to supporting your business again in 2026.
Norton Way Group
DECEMBER 2025