Zeekr 9X: China's First Plug-In Hybrid Flagship SUV Challenges Global Luxury Rivals

The Zeekr 9X marks a historic milestone as the Chinese automaker's inaugural plug-in hybrid vehicle and new flagship SUV. Launched on September 29, 2025, this full-size luxury SUV directly targets ultra-premium competitors like the Range Rover and Rolls-Royce Cullinan, blending state-of-the-art technology, extraordinary performance, and lavish amenities.

Pricing and Market Positioning

The Zeekr 9X is offered in four variants with pricing spanning from 465,900 yuan to 599,900 yuan (approximately US$63,965 to US$82,376). A limited-time trade-in promotion provides 10,000 yuan in benefits, effectively reducing the entry price to 455,900 yuan (around US$62,625). The base Max 55kWh model starts at 465,900 yuan (US$65,440), while the Ultra 55kWh and Ultra 70kWh versions are priced at 485,900 yuan (US$68,250) and approximately 499,900 yuan (US$70,350) respectively.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The 9X introduces

2026 Ford Edge L: A Comprehensive Upgrade in the Mid-to-Large SUV Segment

The 2026 Ford Edge L emerges as a key player in the mid-to-large SUV market, receiving comprehensive upgrades in space, intelligent features, powertrain, and comfort. It continues to focus on family travel and versatile usage scenarios. The new model will be available in seven configurations, all offering a 7-seat layout with optional 2+3+2 or 2+2+3 seating arrangements.

Core Highlights and Upgrades

Exterior Design

The vehicle features a blackened mesh grille, a full-width LED daytime running light bar, and split-type headlights, enhancing its technological appeal and brand identity. The top-tier model is equipped with intelligent adaptive headlights that provide an illumination width of up to 18 meters at night. The side profile incorporates flush electric door handles and a floating roof design, achieving a drag coefficient as low as 0.33Cd. It rides on 21-inch Michelin tires, balancing visual impact and practicality.

Jetour Zongheng G700 Hybrid Off-Road SUV Begins Global Pre-Sales

TopUsedCars.com reporter Xiao Mi - The highly anticipated Jetour Zongheng G700 hybrid off-road SUV officially commenced global pre-sales on September 19, 2025. This premium vehicle is available in four distinct trims, with prices ranging from 349,900 yuan to 429,900 yuan (approximately US$47,945 to US$58,890 at current exchange rates). The G700 combines exceptional off-road capabilities with luxury amenities and cutting-edge intelligent systems, positioning itself as a formidable competitor to established high-end off-road models such as the Land Rover Defender and BYD Yangwang U8.

Key Performance & Specifications

The G700 is powered by the advanced Kunpeng Super Hybrid CDM-O system, delivering an impressive total output of up to 665 kW (896 horsepower) and 1,135 Nm of torque. Some technical specifications indicate slightly lower figures of 560 kW (751 horsepower) and 795 Nm torque, reflecting different measurement standards.

CATL Redefines EV Battery Standards with NP3.0 Safety Platform and Shenxing Pro LFP Battery at Munich Event

On September 7, 2025, CATL, China’s leading battery manufacturer, introduced two groundbreaking technologies at its Munich event: the NP3.0 (No Propagation 3.0) battery safety technology platform and the Shenxing Pro LFP battery. These innovations set a new benchmark for electric vehicle battery safety, fast charging, range, and lifecycle performance, specifically targeting the European and global markets.

Key Innovations in NP3.0 Safety Technology

The NP3.0 platform incorporates eight core safety features, including flame-retardant electrolyte, flame-retardant separator, nano-coating on the cathode, cell safety devices, aerogel insulation pads, fire-retardant coating, circuit stabilization, and high-voltage active cooling. This comprehensive approach ensures superior protection against thermal runaway, a critical concern for EV safety.

In extreme scenarios, NP3.0 prevents heat

Geely Galaxy Xingyao 6: New Entry-Level PHEV Sedan Set for Global Launch

Geely has officially unveiled the Galaxy Xingyao 6, a new plug-in hybrid electric sedan positioned as an entry-level model below the Galaxy A7. The vehicle is equipped with Geely's latest hybrid technology and is poised to enter international markets soon, pending final regulatory approvals.

Key Specifications and Features

The Xingyao 6 measures 4,806mm in length, 1,886mm in width, and 1,490mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,756mm. It is powered by a 1.5-liter engine producing 82kW, paired with a 17kWh battery pack supplied by CALB. The model is expected to utilize Geely's NordThor EM-i PHEV platform, ensuring efficiency and performance. Its top speed is rated at 180km/h.

Design-wise, the Xingyao 6 features a new geometric styling language, including a large shield-shaped grille with vertical slats, sharp headlights, a triple-section lower intake, and muscular hood creases, giving it a modern and aggressive

Dongfeng Honda Faces Significant Sales Decline Starting from Second Half of 2025

Dongfeng Honda, one of China's major joint-venture automakers, has experienced a sharp downturn in sales since the latter half of 2025. In July 2025, none of its models achieved a monthly sales volume exceeding 10,000 units. The CR-V, its best-selling model, recorded sales of only 9,873 vehicles, accounting for nearly half of the brand's total sales. Meanwhile, the Civic, once a segment leader, sold merely around 3,000 units. Sales of its main models dropped by 74% year-on-year and 60% month-on-month, placing Dongfeng Honda at the bottom among mainstream joint-venture brands in China.

Civic Sales Plunge Compared to Competing Models

The Honda Civic saw sales of approximately 3,000 units in July 2025, representing an 88% decline compared to the same period in 2024. Sales have drastically fallen from nearly 20,000 units per month at the beginning of the year to around 3,000 units. Cumulative sales for the year

Dongfeng Motor Seals Major 9,000-Vehicle Annual Deal in Italy, Accelerating European Expansion

Key Highlights

• Annual Order: 9,000 vehicles for Italy, featuring flagship models Mage, Huge, and Shine

• Market Growth: Chinese car sales in Europe surged 91% YoY in early 2025

• Dealer Network: 20 Italian dealerships signed, targeting 40+ by end-2025

• EU Compliance: Core models now certified for European standards

Strategic Push into Europe

Dongfeng Motor has secured a landmark agreement with an Italian partner, marking one of the largest single orders for Chinese automakers in Europe. The deal underscores Dongfeng's strategic focus on the region, where its Mage, Huge, and Shine models will spearhead market penetration.

Localized Market Approach

Dealer Network: Dongfeng has already established 20 dealerships across Italy, with plans to double this number by December 2025. This ensures nationwide sales and service coverage for customers.

Consumer Engagement: The company is running high-impact

Audi S4 Chassis: The Engineering Behind Its Precision Performance

Core Chassis Architecture

The Audi S4 establishes its dynamic foundation through an exceptional combination of five-link front and rear independent suspension, extensive use of lightweight aluminum components, and the legendary quattro all-wheel drive system with mechanical center differential. This creates a rare balance of precision and performance in its class.

Platform and Layout

Built on Volkswagen Group's MLB evo longitudinal engine platform, the S4 features:

• Front-engine, all-wheel-drive configuration for optimal weight distribution
• Lower ride height compared to standard A4/A4L models
• More aggressive suspension tuning and AWD calibration

Suspension System Highlights

The five-link independent suspension provides:

• Superior wheel trajectory control during cornering and braking
• Optimized camber management for enhanced grip
• Precise steering feedback and reduced body roll

Lightweight Construction

Audi engineers implemented

China MIIT Batch 398 New SUV/Crossover Lineup: 11 Models Coming Q4 2025

Key Highlights

The Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has revealed 11 significant SUV/crossover models in its 398th product announcement batch, scheduled for September-November 2025 launches. The lineup spans pure electric, EREV, PHEV, and conventional fuel technologies, featuring major updates from AITO, Tank, GAC Toyota, and emerging EV brands.

Model-by-Model Breakdown

1. Aion i60 (New Model)

- Segment: Compact SUV (positioned below/side-by-side with AION V)

- Design: Family-style tech-sport aesthetic with roof-mounted LiDAR

- Powertrain: Expected to offer both BEV (150-165kW motor) and EREV (1.5L range extender) options

- Dimensions: Approximately 4.68m length

2. Arcfox T5 Facelift

- Updates: Front fascia redesigned to match S5 styling, retained full-width taillight

- Performance: Single-motor BEV with upgraded 185kW (520km range) and 200kW (630/660km range) options using CATL batteries

Leapmotor B01: A Game-Changer in the 100,000 RMB EV Sedan Market

Overview

The Leapmotor B01 has emerged as a formidable contender in the competitive 100,000 RMB new energy sedan segment, thanks to its exceptional configuration, competitive pricing, and impressive delivery efficiency. The model achieved 10,132 locked orders within 72 hours of launch, with the first 10,000 units rolling off the production line in just 7 days. Notably, Leapmotor ensured immediate delivery upon launch, effectively eliminating the "futures trap" and showcasing its strong production capacity and supply chain advantages.

Pricing (Converted to USD)

The official price range for the Leapmotor B01 is 89,800-119,800 RMB (approximately $12,386-$16,538 USD at an exchange rate of 7.25 CNY/USD).

Powertrain and Range

The B01 offers two electric drive systems with peak power outputs of 132kW and 160kW, and peak torque of 175N·m and 240N·m respectively. It comes with three battery capacity options: 43.9kWh, 56.2kWh, and