The luxury division of Toyota, pushing premium hybrids and bold interiors worldwide
Edmunds has compared redesigned 2026 Lexus ES and Mercedes CLA in gas and electric forms. The ES offers more interior space and a smoother ride, while the CLA provides strong real-world range and faster charging. Both are priced to attract buyers into the luxury segment.
Ford and Geely have unveiled a two-thirds/one-third joint venture to build five vehicles at Ford’s Valencia plant in Spain, starting 2028. The deal seeks to reassert Ford’s presence in Europe amid rising Chinese competition, cost pressures, and tightening regulations. Production of the Kuga PHEV will continue; two Geely electric SUVs will be built; a new multi-energy crossover is planned for 2028. The move signals broader global partnerships as U.S. policy tightens access for Chinese firms.
A wave of Chinese automakers is expanding into Europe and the UK, challenging traditional premium brands. Zeekr, BYD and others are pursuing UK launches while major players like Geely, Volvo and Lucid push into premium segments. European and US automakers are restructuring to cope with China’s rising export power and shifting supply chains.
Honda has reported a healthy first-quarter profit and higher sales, driven by strong motorcycle demand in Brazil and India and improved performance in the U.S. and Japan. The company has raised its full-year profit forecast, even as it faces uncertainty from EV costs and external factors such as currency moves and a Kumamoto earthquake.
Electric-vehicle prices have risen in July as automakers tighten incentives after the expiration of federal tax credits. Analysts say limited supply and luxury demand are keeping prices high, while cheaper, mass-market models could pressure the market later in 2026.
Toyota former president Hiroshi Okuda has died at 93. He led the company from 1995, spearheading globalization and hybrid development, including the Prius. His tenure shaped Toyota’s global production network and governance, with succession continuing to probe the Toyoda family’s influence.
Genesis unveils the GV90, its first full-size electric SUV, signaling a bold push into premium markets. The Neolun variant with coach doors and a lounge-like cabin showcases high-end features as Genesis outlines its three pillars—luxury, performance and hospitality—while signaling a broader portfolio development.
Lexus has unveiled the eighth-generation ES at its Jeddah Center, marking a major upgrade alongside a redesigned showroom that blends art, architecture, and hospitality. Chief Engineer Kohei Chiashi says the model underwent repeated testing, with a focus on comfort and electrified powertrains. The event signals a new phase in Lexus' Saudi partnership.