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Chery, China's top car exporter, announced plans to establish an R&D center in Paris to develop a Europe-specific small city car tailored to local consumer preferences. The move marks Chery's strategic pivot from its SUV-focused European entry—via Omoda and Jaecoo brands—into the continent's iconic compact segment. "We want to build a French car for the French," stated Hanbang Yu, Chery France director, emphasizing the company's commitment to understanding regional design tastes. The initiative targets France's significant small car market, positioning Chery to compete against established European urban runabouts like the Fiat Cinquecento and Renault Twingo on their home terrain.

Spy shots of Lexus' first three-row electric flagship SUV TZ (possibly named TZ9) have been exposed. Based on Toyota's electric Highlander, it is positioned to compete with Volvo EX90 and is scheduled for release between late 2026 and early 2027. Its dimensions are basically consistent with the electric Highlander, with length, width and height of 5050/1989/1709mm and a wheelbase of 3051mm, featuring exclusive Lexus design details.

Audi has launched the Q5L Intelligent Hybrid Premium variant priced at RMB 332,800, matching the Ten Million Users Exclusive Edition. The model features a powertrain upgrade with the fifth-generation EA888 2.0T engine, integrating VTG variable geometry turbocharger technology and 500Bar direct injection for 200kW maximum power and 400Nm peak torque. It pairs with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission and P0+P3 parallel hybrid system providing an additional 18kW, achieving 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds. The chassis retains front and rear five-link independent suspension with quattro intelligent AWD. Huawei Qiankun intelligent driving system is available as an optional upgrade, now open for reservation.

Changan Automobile Group has confirmed its Malaysia market entry for Q3/Q4 2026, joining Geely, BYD and Chery in the competitive ASEAN market. The group will deploy a multi-brand strategy: Changan and Nevo at the mainstream tier (Nevo exclusively BEV), sportier Deepal positioned slightly above, and premium Avatr with standalone Lexus-equivalent showrooms. All models except Avatr will carry the 'Changan' prefix (e.g., Changan Nevo Q05). Initial SUV-focused lineup includes the CS55 (ICE and HEV variants), Deepal S05/S07, Nevo Q05, and Avatr 07/11, with the Changan Hunter REEV pick-up under evaluation. Long-term plans target local CKD assembly, though operational partnerships remain undisclosed.

The Changan CS55PLUS HEV has been spotted ahead of the Beijing Auto Show, following its MIIT homologation. The compact SUV adopts the brand's latest design language featuring a borderless grille with V-shaped elements, star-ring full-width light bar and 7-shaped headlight clusters, while the rear gains full-width taillights and a prominent spoiler. Dimensions remain unchanged from the ICE version at 4,550×1,868×1,675mm with a 2,656mm wheelbase. Powertrain comprises a 1.5T engine paired with an electric motor in a hybrid system achieving 4.68L/100km combined fuel consumption. Three wheel options are offered in 17, 18 and 19-inch sizes, expanding Changan's new energy compact SUV portfolio.

Hongqi will debut its first luxury hardcore off-roader at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, with spy shots revealing a design inspired by traditional Chinese "mortise and tenon" architecture. The imposing fortress-style grille and signature illuminated emblem along the central axis define its familial identity. Dimensions are 5,135×2,050×1,950mm with a 2,900mm wheelbase, featuring an exterior-mounted spare tire and Continental AT tires. Powertrain comprises a 2.0T range-extender with quad electric motors delivering 620kW combined output. Despite its rugged positioning, the vehicle is equipped with LiDAR supporting urban and highway pilot assist functions. A modified version developed in collaboration with Yunliang may also be unveiled, expanding its off-road application scenarios.