Weekly automobile roundup: Announcements from Kia, Suzuki, Mercedes, Hyundai, more

Suzuki Motors unveils its first mass-production battery electric vehicle (BEV) model, e VITARA, in Italy
An undated image of Mercedes-AMG. — Mercedes
An undated image of Mercedes-AMG. — Mercedes

The automotive world witnessed significant developments this week, featuring groundbreaking innovations and key announcements.

Therefore, Gadinsider's weekly automotive roundup is as always here to keep car enthusiasts informed, covering local and global news. Following are the biggest highlights in the realm of automobile of the week:

Kia unveils 2025 Sportage facelift in South Korea

Kia has officially unveiled the 2025 facelift Sportage in South Korea. It will be available in Australia by the second quarter of 2025. It comes in eight distinct colours, priced at KRW 28,360,000.

Kia has also introduced a refined 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine in the facelift model, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 2025 Kia Sportage facelift‘s engine is available in both 2WD and AWD and offers a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) package.

e Vitara to launch in 2025: First battery EV from Suzuki

Suzuki Motors unveiled its first mass-production battery electric vehicle (BEV) model, e VITARA, recently in Milan, Italy. Based on the concept model “eVX,” the e Vitara is built on a design that combines the advanced feel of a modern BEV and the strength of an SUV.

The e Vitara comes in two battery sizes: 49kWh for entry-level models and 61kWh for higher versions, supporting up to 150kW fast charging.  

Read more: Upcoming cars in November 2024 — Anticipated launches from Mercedes, more companies

The electric SUV’s sales are expected to commence in Europe, Japan, and India around next year’s summer. However, the company has yet to reveal the pricing. 

Locally assembled MG HS PHEV prices announced

MG Motor Pakistan has officially announced the price of its locally assembled MG HS Plug-in Hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that was launched at the Pakistan Auto Show 2024. 

The locally assembled MG HS PHEV is priced at Rs9,899,000, while the pre-booking price is Rs2,000,000. 

However, MG is also offering a special discount for early birds, meaning if you book your MG HS PHEV early, you will get your car for Rs9,499,000. 

Mercedes-AMG: First full-size electric SUV to be launched soon

Mercedes-AMG is ready to unveil its first full-size electric SUV, a new model designed entirely in-house. The electric SUV is a powerful off-road vehicle. 

With the integration of advanced technology, the AMG electric SUV is said to compete directly with future luxury electric models from leading competitors like Porsche and BMW. 

Read more: Honda electric hybrid technology coming to Pakistan

The starting price of Mercedes-AMG’s full-size SUV is likely to surpass the $130,800 mark.

Xpeng P7+ AI-defined electric launched

China's leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, Xpeng, has unveiled the P7+, its AI-driven sedan, as the world’s first-ever AI-defined vehicle. 

The Xpeng P7+ features a smart system that can recognise road signs and traffic signals. It also offers self-driving capabilities, GPT-4o voice communication, and cloud-based processing. 

The Xpeng P7+ is priced between CNY 186,800 and CNY 218,800. 

Read more: Government plans to set up 10,000 EV charging stations by 2030

Hyundai Tucson available with 50% EMI plan

Hyundai Pakistan has announced a limited-time 50% Equated Monthly Instalment (EMI) down payment offer on its SUV, Hyundai Tucson, starting from November 8. 

This offer invites customers to step into Hyundai’s premium SUV world with added financial ease. 

The Hyundai Tucson is well-known for its stylish design and versatile performance, making it a popular choice for SUV enthusiasts.