2024 Audi Q8
Audi is giving the flagship Q8 SUV a facelift and incorporating its latest lighting technology innovations.
Head-on the vehicle is more aggressive, the octagonal Singleframe grille looking wider and complemented by bigger air intakes. Underneath, the front lip spoiler is now body coloured. Around the back the reshaped bumper diffuser incorporates a couple of extra slats. Consumers can choose a Black Optic package adding a dark, high-gloss treatment to different trim pieces. The headlights on top-line examples utilize digital daytime running light signatures allowing users to load one of four customizable LED patterns.
Higher-performance SQ8 models receive digitalized OLED taillights as well as sequential turn signals. Inside, a new carbon fibre twill inlay gives a nice sporty touch. Both variants will be available in Q1 next year.
2024 Honda Ridgeline
Honda’s unibody truck finally gets a refresh after debuting over five years ago, and debuts a TrailSport version bundling rugged goodies similar to the Passport and Pilot wearing the same badge.
All grades have a new grille and a tailgate with RIDGELINE text stamped prominently across the center. A seven-inch digital instrument panel replaces the outgoing analog cluster, and a nine-inch infotainment display supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. A redesigned centre console boasts expanded storage, and the main cubby is capable of fitting full-size tablet.
The aforementioned TrailSport features an off-road-tuned suspension system, 18-inch wheels wrapped in 245/60/18 General Grabber A/T tires, front skidplate garnish, steel underbody protection, orange badging and an exclusive Diffused Sky Blue paint colour.
Toyota EPU Concept
An EV pickup has been rumoured to be in the works at Toyota for some time now, and the EPU Concept unveiled at the recent Japan Mobility Show may be a tease what’s to come in the future.
Measuring 5,080 millimetres long, 1,905 wide and 1,651 tall, the mini truck is roughly the same size as the Ford Maverick. There’s also a midgate that when lowered extends the 4.5-foot bed to six feet after folding the second-row seat flat. Made of a composite material, the box can accommodate oddly shaped objects via attaching accessories to the various cut-outs found throughout or the utility rail. On the opposite side, a small frunk is offered.
At first glance the interior appears to be quite basic, the standout item being the yoke-style steering wheel. Interestingly, physical transmission controls seem to be mounted directly onto the widescreen display ahead of the driver. The Japanese manufacturer hasn’t shared many other details at this time but stay tuned.
Third generation Volkswagen Tiguan
Though it won’t sold in North America until later, orders have opened for the European-spec 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan showcasing among other upgrades a plug-in hybrid EV (PHEV) powertrain.
Slightly longer than the current crossover, an optional and trendy LED light bar hidden behind glass replaces a traditional radiator grille. A horizontal LED strip at the rear completes the set. The cabin gains pneumatic massaging seats, a 15.0-inch infotainment display and a rotary control knob housing a small onboard OLED screen that serves as a drive mode, volume and ambient lighting selector.
Of the many engine choices, the PHEV, mated to an automatic direct shift gearbox, is arguably the most interesting delivering about 100 kilometres of pure electric operation. Not often seen in the segment, DC fast charging at 50-kilowatts is supported. Additional info to come closer to the launch.