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In 2024, new car sales in the US reached 15.9 million units, up 2.2% year-on-year, marking a five-year high. This growth was driven by replenished inventories, higher incentives, and surging demand for hybrid vehicles. General Motors led with 2.7 million units sold, while Toyota saw a 3.7% increase, boosted by models like the Camry and RAV4, which are offered only as hybrids in the US. Ford sold nearly twice as many hybrids as EVs in 2024. However, sales for Stellantis and Tesla declined compared to 2023.

FAW-Toyota will launch the refreshed Corolla Cross on Oct 28. The mid-cycle update brings a frameless grille, new air-curtain inserts and black headlight bridge for a sportier crossover look, while dimensions (4460/1825/1625 mm, 2640 mm wheelbase) and rear styling remain unchanged. Upgrades align with the global model, covering interior and powertrain enhancements.

Displayed in heavy camo at the ASEAN Summit, the new Saga retains the Gen-3 platform and glasshouse, adding LED headlights, a full-width tail-light bar and twin-screen dash while keeping a mechanical handbrake and shifter. The 1.3L CamPro is dropped for a Geely 1.5L NA paired with 4AT or CVT. A windscreen-mounted camera enables L2 ADAS functions (AEB, ACC, LDW) for the budget-sedan segment.

On Oct 25, Haval unveiled the H6L, essentially the gasoline-powered Xiaolong rebadged under the core H line. Positioned as a mid-size SUV, it will launch in early-to-mid November. Featuring a “rhythmic nature” design with full-width dot-matrix lighting and an X-shaped front bumper, the H6L will be sold alongside the current H6 to broaden Haval’s reach in the mainstream SUV segment.

Xpeng launches the X9 PowerX EREV MPV: a 1.5L turbo acts solely as a generator for a 63.3kWh pack, delivering 320PS/450Nm to the front wheels, 452km CLTC electric range and 1602km total range with a 60L tank. Aero tweaks add 32km, hidden tailpipes maintain EV looks. After 20 million km global tests, right-hand-drive assembly in Malaysia is slated for 2026.

Buick’s upcoming GL8 flagship, the Zhiying Shijia, has been spotted. Riding on the new Xiaoyao architecture, the 5.26 m-long, 2.02 m-wide MPV offers both BEV and PHEV options. Design highlights include a closed lower grille, split vertical headlights, full-width 257-LED tail-lamp and roof-mounted lidar for advanced driver-assistance systems.