2028 Scout Traveler/Terra
Rivian is about to have some local competition in the off-road EV space with the upcoming pair of models from American-based company Scout Motors, slated to release in 2027.
A subsidiary of Volkswagen Group via an acquisition, the SUV and pickup alike boast retro cool looks, a rugged body-on-frame construction and 35-inch tires, dual electric motors for all-wheel drive and a range of over 500 kilometres and a towing capacity of 7,000 pounds and 10,000 pounds, respectively. In addition, both are offered in PHEV form packing an internal combustion engine serving as a range-extending generator.
Interestingly, Scout will leverage Rivian’s zonal electronics architecture, powering the latest R1 and R1S, in its products thanks to a recently-inked partnership — which enables future over-the-air updates and remote diagnostics capability.
2025 Mitsubishi Outlander
A refreshed 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander is on the way next year featuring a few interesting updates to the interior.
The automaker shared teaser image of the cabin highlighted by a new “significantly upgraded” stereo courtesy of Yamaha — the first time the Japanese musical instrument and audio equipment manufacturer has collaborated on a vehicle destined for the North American market. One of the shots reveals an intricate Yamaha-branded speaker grille, and another a slightly larger infotainment screen and reworked centre console with cupholders to the right of the shifter and electronic parking brake switch closer to the armrest.
There has also been mention of slight styling changes to the exterior, as well as “improved on-and-off-highway driving manners.” More information to come closer to the Feb. 24 debut.
2025 Lexus TX 350 F Sport
Lexus rolled out the luxury version of the Toyota Grand Highlander just two summers ago, and now the three-row gasoline-powered TX 350 variant gets the popular F Sport treatment to add some goodies previously only available to hybrid customers.
The biggest item is the inclusion of an Adaptive Variable Suspension upping the SUV’s handling and ride quality game. The system monitors driving input and road conditions, and then automatically alters the shock absorber damping force to either stiffen during dynamic operation or soften while travelling over rough surfaces.
Other notable mentions are the second-row captain’s chairs, heated/ventilated rear seats, 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo, and enhanced appearance such as an exclusive grille and front and rear bumpers, 22-inch wheels, special instrument display and aluminum sport pedals.
Polestar TRX concept
Polestar has announced the winner of its fourth Polestar Design Contest — allowing professionals and students alike to showcase their automotive design skills — who has created a futuristic off-roader that will become a Hot Wheels toy.
Dubbed the TRX, Indian designer Shashank Shekhar beat out 1,200 other participants from around the globe when he had his simultaneously rugged and sleek concept picked to be turned into a 1:64 scale diecast.
The luxury EV brand said the recent batch of submissions were “some of the most daring designs-to-date,” with Shekhar’s representing “a bold interpretation of Polestar’s normally subtle design philosophy.” Look for the TRX Hot Wheels to drop summer 2025.
Honda 0 Series SUV concept
Though not going into production until 2026, Honda is unveiling the 0 Series SUV concept at the Consumer Electronics Show next month in Sin City.
A recently-published media photo teases a shadowy rear three quarter and the title “CES 2025 – January 7, 2025 in Las Vegas.” At the event, Honda is expected to introduce a new vehicle OS, expanded automated driving technologies and a novel energy service scheduled to go online at time of delivery.
Previously, the Japanese marque indicated both single and dual-motor configurations are in the works, which utilize compact e-axles allowing increased interior space and better aerodynamics.