• The Wilderness trim is the most rugged and off-road capable version of the 2026 Outback.

• Standard features include electronic dampers, chunky all-terrain tires, 9.5 inches of ground clearance, and a turbocharged Boxer engine.

• The Subaru Outback Wilderness has inherited its predecessor’s 3,500 lbs. towing capacity, but its updated SUV body offers more cargo space.

Turbocharged Boxer Engine

The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness has a potent yet familiar turbocharged 2.4-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine under the hood. It produces 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft. of torque. The engine routes power to all four wheels using the brand’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission).

The transmission features an eight-speed manual shift mode, paddle shifters, and X-Mode Dual Mode with Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings for rough terrain.

Meanwhile, the revised Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system offers faster center differential lockup and reduced wheel spin for off-pavement adventures. The system also utilizes steering angle data to enhance stability and improve cornering performance.

Maximum towing capacity is 3,500 lbs. when equipped with the available accessory trailer hitch, which includes a combined seven-pin and four-pin connector, as well as a reconfigured rear bumper.

Enhanced Capabilities Versus Other Outbacks

The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness has all the ingredients to make both on- and off-road driving more enjoyable. Standard features include a set of all-terrain Bridgestone Dueler tires, underbody protection, and 9.5 inches of ground clearance.

Adding to the on-road and off-road versatility is a bespoke suspension system with electronically controlled dampers. Along with specialized tuning for better stability on rough terrain, acceleration sensors detect road conditions in real-time and control the damping forces accordingly. “This system functions like a ‘skyhook’ to ensure minimal sway and a higher level of driving stability,” Subaru said. “Off-road, the dampers work with X-Mode to offer more security on uneven grounds without compromising comfort on paved roads.”

When the concrete ends, the Outback Wilderness has a 20 and 22.5-degree approach and departure angle, an improvement over the other models in the 2026 Outback lineup (18 and 21.4 degrees, respectively). Additionally, the ramp breakover angle is 21.2 degrees, compared to 19.4 degrees.

It also looks the part with its 17-inch matte black wheels, unique side cladding, round LED hexagonal fog lamps, and ladder roof rails (800 lbs. static load capacity and 220 lbs. dynamic capacity). Other exterior treatments include a Wilderness-exclusive front grille, anodized copper exterior accents, and an expanded front bumper.

Animal-Free Interior & Tech Features

The 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness has water-resistant and animal-free interior seating surfaces. Subaru said the StarTex upholstery cleans easily, a bonus for families using the Outback Wilderness for everything from daily errands to weekend outings (see our YouTube playlist with Meguiar’s for the best interior detailing tips).

Standard features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM, a rearview camera, and over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Anodized copper interior accents are exclusive to the Outback Wilderness, while Nappa leather upholstery with ventilated front seats, a moonroof, and a 360-degree Surround View Monitor are optional.

Cargo space has expanded by up to two cubic feet compared to the 2025 Outback, now 34.6 cubic feet. Practical additions include utility hooks that can hold up to six lbs. each and are attachable to eight locations in the trunk (four on the left and four on the right). A stowable cargo cover made from 100 percent recycled materials is also standard.

Safety Features

All trim variants of the 2026 Subaru Outback have an enhanced version of the automaker’s EyeSight package. It includes frontal pre-collision braking, lane centering, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, front cross-traffic braking, and emergency stop assist, among other features.

Pre-Curve Speed Control, Highway Active Lane Change Assist, Highway Automatic Resume Assist, and driver-supported Highway Hands-Free Assist are available as optional active safety features.

Newly available for the 2026 Outback is Emergency Stop Assist with Safe Lane Selection. The feature activates if the driver becomes unresponsive to warnings while using the advanced adaptive cruise control. If the driver remains unresponsive, the system will change lanes if needed to pull the Outback over to the shoulder. At that point, the doors are unlocked and the hazard lights are turned on while a call is placed to emergency responders.

As for the advanced adaptive cruise control system, it can help slow the Outback down in its lane before a curve in the road when used with the Pre-Curve Speed Control feature.

2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness Starting MSRP

Subaru will announce pricing and other specs closer to the Outback Wilderness’ early 2026 on-sale date. However, we expect it to start between $42,000 and $43,000.

In the meantime, our Auto Loans 101 guide will help if you have questions about vehicle financing. Subaru offers three extended warranty plans, each providing up to 10 years or 100,000 miles of coverage against mechanical defects.

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness Gallery

Photos & Source: Subaru of America, Inc.

Original article: 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness Has 9.5-Inches of Ground Clearance & Adventure-Ready Gear

• The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is the sixth-generation model of the brand’s ever-popular midsize crossover SUV.

• The all-new RAV4 will be available in Core, Sport, and Rugged models with a hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain.

• The 2026 RAV4 is the first Toyota vehicle to come standard with the Arene software platform, which powers infotainment and safety features.

2026 Toyota RAV4 Powertrains

All 2026 RAV4s will feature a hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain and will be available in Core, Rugged, and Sport configurations. Unlike prior model years, the 2026 RAV4 is not available with a gas-only powertrain. Here is a look at each configuration with its corresponding powertrains, be it hybrid or PHEV:

Toyota RAV4 Core

The RAV4 Core consists of the LE, XLE, and Limited trim grades. All models feature Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system, which comprises a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine and newly optimized components, including the electric motor, transaxle, battery, and power control unit.

All RAV4 Core models produce a combined system output of 226 horsepower with front-wheel drive (FWD) and 236 horsepower with all-wheel drive (AWD). It’s worth noting that Toyota’s fifth-gen hybrid system offers 17 more horsepower than before for AWD models, while the FWD version has 23 more horsepower than the previous RAV4 FWD gas variant.

Toyota RAV4 Rugged

The RAV4 Rugged consists of the Woodland Edition, a former trim level that’s now a standalone grade for the 2026 model year. Woodland Editions are available in hybrid or PHEV with all-wheel drive as standard.

Toyota’s latest plug-in hybrid system includes a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine, two electric motors, and a high-capacity traction battery. The system has silicon carbide semiconductors in the front axle to provide more power and a slight uptick in all-electric driving range when combined with the larger battery.

PHEV AWD models produce up to a combined system output of 320 horsepower, 18 more horsepower than the previous RAV4 PHEV.

Toyota RAV4 Sport

The Sport lineup for 2026 includes the SE, XSE, and the all-new GR Sport. XSE and SE models will be available with a hybrid or PHEV powertrain and a choice of FWD or AWD. The RAV4 GR Sport is exclusive with an AWD plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The GR Sport includes equipment and styling cues developed in conjunction with Toyota Gazoo Racing, including a GR-tuned suspension, 20-inch wheels, GR logos on the front headrests and steering wheel, and more.

Max Towing Capacity

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 has a maximum towing capacity of 1,750 lbs. for all FWD variants and the LE AWD. Hybrid XLE, Woodland, SE, XSE, and Limited models can tow up to 3,500 lbs. when properly equipped. The 3,500 lbs. max towing figure applies to the plug-in hybrid SE, XSE, and Woodland models with AWD.

Range & Charging

2026 RAV4 PHEV variants deliver a manufacturer-estimated 50 miles of all-electric driving courtesy of the new front axle with silicon carbide semiconductors.

The RAV4 XSE and Woodland PHEV have a CCS charging port and are compatible with DC fast charging, allowing their battery packs to replenish from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, the RAV4 SE and GR Sport PHEV come standard with a J1772 charge port and an available 11 kW AC onboard recharger.

Hammerhead-Inspired Design

The 2026 RAV4 is built on a structurally reinforced Toyota New Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform, featuring more robust frame joints, suspension mounting points, and high-damping adhesives. When combined, the structural rigidity changes benefit the ride and handling of the 2026 RAV4 while also reducing interior road noise.

As for the exterior styling, Toyota has been applying its “hammerhead” front-end design to many of its most popular vehicles, such as the Crown, Prius, and Camry. The 2026 RAV4 is the latest to inherit the Japanese automaker’s modern design language. It features more pronounced SUV proportions, aggressive fender flares, chiseled door panels, and more wheel size options.

Core models feature 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels, a painted front grille, black cladding, and wider over-fenders. The RAV4 Woodland includes Rigid Industries off-road lights, a black upper and lower front grille, standard all-terrain tires (giving it a half-inch taller ride height), raised roof rails with crossbars, and a 1¼-inch rear activity mount.

The first-ever RAV4 GR Sport has 20-inch wheels wrapped in summer tires, a GR Matrix front grille, and wing-type spoilers for the front and rear. Other goodies include blue interior stitching and an optional two-tone paint finish (Supersonic Red with a black roof).

Woodland models are available in an exclusive Urban Rock paint, while new hues across the entire 2026 RAV4 model range include Storm Cloud, Meteor Shower, and Everest.

Arene Software Platform

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 is the first to feature the brand’s latest Arene software platform. Developed by Woven by Toyota, Arene marks the automaker’s initial step as the automotive industry undergoes a transition to software-defined vehicles.

“The platform will be the foundation for our most advanced safety, security, and connectivity technologies and will create new opportunities to enhance features for our customers on a global scale,” said Toyota in its press release about the 2026 RAV4.

Arene’s arrival heralds the latest version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, which includes a 10.5-inch or 12.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, a standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, dual Bluetooth connectivity, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a voice assistant with quicker response times. Map and navigation functionality can also be integrated into the digital gauge cluster.

Upscale Cabin Amenities

The 2026 Toyota RAV4’s redesigned cockpit has a recognizable yet modern vibe. There are new shapes and materials, such as a new center stack, digital HVAC controls, and a shift-by-wire toggle switch (available on select models) to replace the conventional shifter. The center console combines the shifter, cup holders (with a removable divider), and an armrest and storage bin combo.

The standard audio system is a six-speaker JBL stereo, while a nine-speaker JBL unit is available for certain trim levels.

Woodland models feature perforated soft-touch door and dash panels, along with red-orange accents. XSE models receive Ultrasuede and SofTex seating, while the GR Sport has perforated BRIN•NAUB microsuede seating with SofTex treatments.

Toyota Warranty

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 leaves the factory with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. It also comes with an eight-year/100,000-mile hybrid warranty and a 10-year/150,000-mile hybrid battery warranty.

ToyotaCare is standard for all new RAV4s. The plan includes two years/25,000 miles (whichever comes first) of factory-scheduled maintenance and two years (unlimited mileage) of roadside assistance.

If the factory coverage is not enough for any reason, options are available to extend the warranty on any Toyota vehicle.

2026 Toyota RAV4 Starting MSRP

Pricing and other details regarding the 2026 RAV4 remain forthcoming. For now, we expect the starting MSRP to linger between $37,000 and $53,000. If you have questions about new vehicle financing, see this Auto Loans 101 guide.

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

2026 Toyota RAV4 Gallery

Photos & Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

Original article: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Overview: Hybrid Powertrains, New Software & Trim Levels

• Porsche unveiled the 963 RSP as it readied for the 93^rd 24 Hours of Le Mans. It’s a road-going variant of the Type 9R0 Porsche 963 LMDh prototype racing car named after the initials of businessman Roger Penske.

• The Porsche 963 RSP is also a 50^th-anniversary tribute to the custom road-legal Porsche 917 K that Count Rossi of Martini & Rossi drove from the Zuffenhausen factory to Paris in 1975.

• Powered by a 680-horsepower, 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged hybrid V8, the Porsche 963 RSP has gained a few niceties, including headlights, a road-friendly suspension, and a leather and Alcantara interior.

One Fateful Day In 1975

Porsche developed the 917 prototype racing car in 1969 and went on to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1970, as well as the World Sportscar Championship from 1969 to 1971. It earned a reputation as the greatest Porsche racing car of all time, but it also drew praise for its gorgeous vintage bodywork and flat-12 engine.

All those merits were too hard to pass for Count Rossi di Montelera (Count Rossi), the Prince of Premuda and heir to the Martini & Rossi beverage empire, who in 1974 arrived at the Porsche Zuffenhausen factory and requested a road-legal version of the 917 K racing car. The automaker willingly obliged and took chassis 030 from storage to fulfill the Count’s fervent wish.

Porsche didn’t do much to convert the 917 from a hardcore racer to a tamer, road-going variant (that’s how the Count wanted it, anyway). Besides removing a few aero fins and adding an exhaust silencer to prevent hearing damage among pedestrians, Count Rossi’s Porsche 917 is an authentic racing car with a genuine tan leather interior.

Enthralled by his new, one-off creation, the Count drove his 917 from the Zuffenhausen factory to Paris in 1975, where it remains in its original form to this day. Over 50 years later, Porsche is reliving the glory days with the 963 RSP.

Porsche 963 RSP Celebrates The Count Rossi 917

The Porsche 963 RSP began its life at a trackside meeting between Timo Resch, President and CEO of Porsche North America, Thomas Laudenbach, Vice President of Porsche Motorsport, and Urs Kuratle, Director of Factory Racing at Road Atlanta.

“This really started out as a ‘what if?’—a passion project by a small team of enthusiasts at Penske and at Porsche who together imagined a version of the 963 that resembled as closely as possible the spirit and appearance of the Count Rossi 917,” Resch recalled.

The gentlemen introduced the concept to Roger Penske and Jonathan Diuguid, Managing Director of Porsche Penske Motorsport. It didn’t take long for the group to name their project after Penske; hence, the 963 RSP was born.

“We have enjoyed a terrific relationship with Porsche dating back to 1972,” said Roger Penske, Chairman of the Penske Corporation. “When we got into the project, the differences in the two generations of race cars provided a great challenge. What emerged is a car that has lost none of its edge and is exciting whether on the track or the road.”

Porsche 963 RSP Powertrain Specs

Powering the Porsche 963 RSP is a 4.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that produces approximately 680 horsepower. The twin-turbo V8 of the 963 RSP was inspired by the Penske-operated RS Spyder race program, which claimed all titles in the LMP2 class of the American Le Mans Series from 2006 to 2008. The engine was enlarged from 3.4 to 4.6 liters and then used in the limited-production 918 Spyder road car, which debuted in 2013.

While the 918 Spyder’s engine was naturally aspirated, the 963 RSP leverages two turbochargers from Dutch manufacturer Van der Lee. The 963 RSP V8 features a flat-plane crankshaft with a shorter stroke and a lower mounting point, all of which optimize the car’s center of gravity.

Meanwhile, the 800V hybrid-electric components include a rear-mounted Bosch motor generator unit (located in the bell housing between the V8 engine and the seven-speed Xtrac transmission) and a 1.35 kWh high-voltage battery from Williams Advanced Engineering.

The V8 can spin to 8,000 rpm assisted by the Bosch motor generator unit, while the electric motor can output 30 to 50 kW in short bursts without changing the powertrain’s output. However, Porsche reconfigured the power delivery of the hybrid system to make it more suitable for everyday roads.

It may not have a high-strung flat-12 engine like the 917, but the 963 RSP’s hybridized V8 is as close as it gets to bringing race car pedigree to the street.

Exterior Highlights

Porsche and Penske Motorsport had two goals in mind when conceptualizing the design attributes of the 963 RSP: to remain as close to the original car as initially envisioned by Count Rossi and for the bodywork to resemble the spirit of the 917.

The Sonderwunsch customization team in Zuffenhausen and at Porsche Classic in Atlanta flexed their creative muscles and immediately got to work. They collaborated with Porsche Penske Motorsport to design new front and rear fender vents that allow air within the wheel wells to escape. The carbon fiber blanking plates of the racing variant, which would normally be located within the rear wing, could be removed for the 963 RSP.

The team decided to paint the Kevlar and carbon fiber body in a Martini Silver hue with Satin Black elements. Finishing the look are 18-inch forged OZ racing wheels, Michelin tires emblazoned with 1970s-era logos on the sidewalls, a front enamel Porsche badge, and a 3D-printed 963 RSP appliqué on the rear of the car.

Standard Cupholder

The Porsche 963 RSP’s interior features a mix of soft tan leather and Alcantara, inspired by the original trim choices made by Count Rossi. Alcantara trim was used for the leg cushions in the footwell as well as the roof lining and pillars. The steering wheel, where the majority of the vehicle’s functions are located, was finished in leather.

Despite having only one seat for the driver, the cabin has air conditioning. The solo leather seat is outfitted with softer cushions and a fixed headrest mounted on the carbon fiber bulkhead.

The space next to the driver features a trimmed panel to accommodate a laptop (for starting and operating the car), a Peltor headset, and Penske’s custom carbon crash helmet. We like the detachable 3D-printed cup holder, a feature that the 963 LMDh prototype could only dream about.

Other add-ons include a horn, turn signals, and a bespoke Snap-on toolset that contains everything needed to start, operate, and service the vehicle.

Only One For The Road

The changes have made the Porsche 963 RSP a road-legal machine, but there are no plans to green-light the car for commercial production. Porsche insists that its latest creation is “intended to remain a very special one-off” and is not a “homologated addition to the Porsche model lineup.”

The Porsche 963 RSP made its maiden appearance on the streets near Circuit de la Sarthe alongside the 917 during the recently concluded 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans. It is currently on display at the Porsche Museum in Stuttgart and will reappear at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (along with the 917) in July 2025.

“That was an experience that will stay with me for a lifetime,” said Timo Bernhard, who drove the 963 RSP for its road debut. “Driving down a public road with a 917 beside me—it felt unreal. The car behaved perfectly—it felt a little friendlier and more forgiving than the normal 963—and felt super special and a lot more comfortable, especially as I was not needing all my safety gear.”

“The 917 from the story was every inch a race car—albeit one driven on the road—and we took the same approach with the 963 RSP,” Resch added. “It uses beautiful materials of the best quality available, but is still every bit a race car underneath.”

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

Photos & Source: Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

Original article: Porsche 963 RSP Pays Homage to Count Rossi’s Incredible 917 Racing Car

• The 2026 Bentayga Speed is Bentley’s newest flagship luxury SUV. It replaces the Bentayga S in the lineup and is the most potent Bentayga yet.

• It’s also the sharpest-handling Bentayga to leave Crewe, thanks to a new and optimized Sport mode.

• Precision Diamond interior quilting and custom badging are among the highlights of the Bentayga Speed’s “performance-focused” cabin.

Reconfigured Twin-Turbo V8

Nestling under the new Bentayga Speed’s considerable bonnet is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that receives a strong power hike versus the previous Bentayga S. The 4.0-liter V8 now produces 641 horsepower and 627 lb-ft. of torque, making it more potent than the 4.0-liter V8 of the now defunct Bentayga S and any previous W12-powered Bentayga Speed.

With the monster V8 churning out peak torque between 2,250 and 4,500 rpm, the 2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed is quicker from zero to 60 mph than any Bentayga before it, surpassing the mark in 3.4 seconds.

For context, the W12 Bentayga Speed reaches 60 mph in 3.9 seconds, while the V8-powered Bentayga S takes 4.5 seconds. Bentley ain’t messing around when it called the 2026 Bentayga Speed its new performance flagship and the most potent ever to wear the Speed badge.

Power goes to all four wheels via an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission. The top speed is 193 mph when fitted with the optional carbon ceramic brakes.

Optional Akrapovic Exhaust

The standard pipes feature a Bentley Sport exhaust system, highlighted by two elliptical exhaust tips that peek through the rear diffuser. Bentley said to expect a “rich, powerful engine note” when burying the throttle.

A louder yet more purposeful option is the Akrapovic titanium exhaust system with quad tailpipes that accentuates the “power, drama, and potency of the V8 engine.”

Giving the Bentayga Speed something like an Akrapovic exhaust system is perhaps proof of Bentley’s genuine intent to add a touch of humor to a vehicle that would otherwise be known for its stoic and aristocratic demeanor.

Sport Mode Cranked to Eleven!

Bentley retained the Comfort and Bentley driving modes for the newest Bentayga Speed, ensuring it won’t deviate from its primary mission: arrive in utmost comfort and opulence.

However, Bentley engineers made sure this latest model was the sharpest-handling Bentayga to leave Crewe. A new and optimized Sport mode blesses the Bentayga Speed with the athletic reflexes of a sport-touring car. The new Sport mode sharpens the steering, stiffens the suspension damping by 15 percent, and optimizes torque vectoring for enhanced “turn-in” cornering performance.

ESC Dynamic & Launch Control

The optional carbon ceramic brake package includes what Bentley calls “ESC Dynamic in Sport mode.” This setting “relaxes” electronic stability control intervention when entering a corner, enabling the driver to execute power-on oversteer in “exhilarating drift angles” via torque vectoring by brake, Bentley said.

ESC Dynamic includes launch control, the first of its kind for any Bentayga. Enhancing overall on-road engagement is all-wheel steering, which moves the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels at low speeds but turns the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels at higher speeds.

Exterior Design Enhancements

The 2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed features dark-tinted or silver 22-inch wheels, darkened brightware, chrome Speed badging, gray taillamps, and smoked headlights. Buyers can choose from seven colors for the brake calipers.

Larger 23-inch Speed wheels, available in gray, black, or a bright machine finish, are optional with the carbon ceramic brake package. Exclusive to the Bentayga Speed is a satin or glossy black roof.

Luxurious Yet Sporty Cabin

The sporty GT driving feel is part of the Bentley DNA, but nobody does “luxury” and “sport” as well as the British automaker in cabin accouterments. The Bentayga Speed receives a unique digital instrument screen, embroidered Speed emblems on the seat uppers, and customary Speed badging.

Meanwhile, the door inners, seat shoulder panels, and the backboard (four-seat models) have Precision diamond quilting, which complements the plush upholstery.

2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed Starting MSRP

Big money would typically accompany a premium luxury SUV, so what more if the SUV in question is the most potent and dynamic Bentley Bentayga? Expect the starting MSRP to linger in the $275,000 to $285,000 range.

At some point, it would be interesting to see an updated version of the Bentayga Speed Space Edition. That’s something to add to the wish list!

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed Gallery

Photos & Source: Bentley Motors.

Original article: 2026 Bentley Bentayga Speed Offers Powerful V8 & Sporty Styling

• The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is the high-performance variant of the American automaker’s small luxury SUV. It’s the first GM vehicle to feature a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port.

• The 2026 Optiq-V has dual electric motors, all-wheel drive (AWD), and 519 horsepower (Cadillac-estimated).

• Cadillac is offering the Optiq-V with two interior colors, monochrome V-series badging, and a 19-speaker AKG stereo.

2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Electric Powertrain

The all-new Optiq-V is the second Cadillac EV to wear the ultra-performance V badge. Although a step down in price compared to its Lyriq-V stablemate, the Optiq-V remains just as luxurious and powerful while still spoiling the driver with a posh cabin.

“Optiq-V is a significant addition to the V-Series portfolio, bringing in new customers to the brand and emphasizing Cadillac’s global impact,” said Cadillac global vice president John Roth. “V-Series continues to help forge Cadillac’s performance legacy by providing customers an exhilarating driving experience.”

A significant part of that exhilaration is a dual-motor electric powertrain (one for the front axle, another for the rear axle) that delivers up to 519 horsepower and 650 lb-ft. of torque with Velocity Max mode engaged (both figures are GM-estimated). With Launch Control and Velocity Max, the 2026 Optiq-V rushes from zero to 60 mph in a Cadillac-estimated 3.5 seconds.

For comparison, the 2026 Lyriq-V produces a GM-estimated 615 horsepower from two electric motors, which enables it to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a Cadillac-estimated 3.3 seconds.

Despite its robust powertrain, GM does not recommend towing with the 2026 Lyriq-V.

Battery, Range & Charging

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V features an 85 kWh lithium-ion NCMA cathode battery, delivering a manufacturer-estimated 275 miles of range.

Moreover, the 2026 Optiq-V is the first production vehicle by General Motors to come standard with a NACS charging port, giving owners access to the Tesla Supercharger Network across North America. The 2026 Optiq-V can replenish 70 miles of range per 10 minutes of DC fast charging, based on GM testing.

“Integrating the native NACS port into our vehicle architecture is an important step forward, reflecting our leadership in engineering and our commitment to providing our customers with more charging options,” said Optiq-V chief engineer John Cockburn.

Performance-Enhancing Features

The athletic nature of the 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is enhanced by an array of technologies that deliver performance attributes worthy of its V-Series badge.

For example, the V-Mode setting enables drivers to save and select their preferred calibrations with the steering-wheel-mounted “V button.” Drivers can also access V-Mode through the Drive Mode app within the 33-inch infotainment LED display.

Competitive Mode unleashes the digital animal within the Optiq-V by “enabling a suite of traction management features specifically engineered to increase vehicle agility,” Cadillac said.

V-Series Design Treatments

The standard Cadillac Optiq is not a bad-looking crossover (it’s actually one of the better-looking crossovers we’ve seen in a while), but the V badge adds more distinctive touches. The 2026 Optiq-V features a bespoke front fascia with a gloss-black front splitter, body-color lower trim, a rear liftgate diffuser, and a V-pattern mesh in the lower grille.

Red or royal blue Brembo brake calipers are available, both with the V-Series logo. Other standard features include a black-painted panoramic fixed glass roof and 21-inch satin graphite alloy wheels garbed in all-season or summer performance tires.

Cadillac is offering a carbon fiber package for the 2026 Optiq-V. It includes a carbon rear mid-wing, a front splitter, and a custom rear diffuser. Unique to the Optiq-V are two new paint colors: Deep Ocean Tintcoat and Magnus Metal Frost.

Cadillac Optiq-V Interior Highlights

Front and center is a 33-inch infotainment screen and digital driver’s display with Google built-in, featuring Google Maps and Google Assistant. Optiq-V clients can choose from a Noir with Santorini Blue or a Noir and Sky Cool Gray cabin theme, while ambient lighting and carbon fiber trim come standard.

Additionally, the interior features a patterned accent fabric made from yarn derived from 100 percent recycled materials. An AKG Studio Audio stereo with Dolby Atmos and 19 speakers is also standard.

Interior Room & Cargo Capacity

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V is a five-seat, two-row electric crossover SUV. It offers a passenger volume of 54 cubic feet in the front and 47 cubic feet in the second row. Legroom in front is 41.6 inches, while rear passengers have 37.8 inches of legroom.

Total cargo space is 26 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding up to 57 cubic feet when it’s folded. Front headroom is 39.6 inches, while headroom in the second row is 38.7 inches.

Super Cruise

The 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V comes standard with Super Cruise and three years of OnStar connected services. With an attentive driver and under the proper conditions, Super Cruise can permit the hands-free operation of the Optiq-V on more than 400,000 miles of compatible highways across the United States and Canada.

Furthermore, the 2026 Optiq-V comes equipped with a number of active safety features as standard. The list includes blind zone steering assist, enhanced automatic parking, adaptive cruise control, forward collision alert, and more.

2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Starting MSRP

The all-new Cadillac Optiq-V starts at approximately $68,795 (including destination) and will be sold at dealerships in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Israel, and the Middle East.

If you have questions about new vehicle financing, see our helpful Auto Loans 101 guide. Cadillac extended warranty plans often have three coverage levels.

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

Photos & Source: Cadillac.

Original article: 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Offers Luxury, Quick Dual Motor Powertrain, & NACS Port

Father’s Day Gift Ideas Summary

• Your dad (or husband) is awesome, and ties are predictable!

• This list includes radar detectors, portable pressure washers and vacuums, jump starters, and NASCAR books.

• We include a brief summary of each item, along with some additional resources if you would like to know more.

• In 1972, the Nixon Administration recognized Father’s Day as an official U.S. holiday (Public Law 92-278).

Best Father’s Day Gifts

While ties and coffee mugs are good, these Father’s Day gift ideas are for dads that love cars, racing, or the latest gadgets. Each is available through Amazon, of which Automoblog is an associate and may earn a commission.

Techie Dads

Escort MAXcam 360c

Buy Now for Dad

Combines a radar detector and a dash camera into one device.

NASCAR Dads

NASCAR 75 Years

Get Dad’s Copy

Perfect way for dad to share his love of NASCAR with the kids.

DIY Dads

C.G. ProFlow

Buy Now for Dad

Pressure washer tips and casters provide flexibility for different cleaning projects.

Gearhead Dads

NOCO GB70

Buy Now for Dad

Durable and compact, the 2,000-amp GB70 accommodates nearly every vehicle.

Gifts For Techie Dads (Radar Detectors)

If your dad has a lead foot, a new radar detector is a great Father’s Day gift. If your dad doesn’t have a radar detector or hasn’t had one in a long time, the technology has grown by leaps and bounds.

For example, the false alert filtering capability is a significant improvement, meaning that radar detectors today are less “noisy.” Newer antenna platforms (a key component of modern radar detectors) are optimized for greater detection range, so Dad will have plenty of time to slow down. Some radar detectors even come with a compatible smartphone app.

The Escort MAXcam 360c is our top pick, a two-in-one unit with a radar detector and a high-resolution dash camera. It’s an enhanced version of the MAX 360c radar detector with a Quad HD 1440p dash camera. Digital signal processing technology minimizes false alerts (i.e., the age-old “automatic doors”), while emergency recordings activate during a collision.

Compared to other radar detectors, the Escort MAXcam 360c will cost more because it’s a dual-purpose unit. However, it’s a helpful tool and a fun toy. The dash camera is also handy if your dad is ever the victim of a hit-and-run accident.

Other Radar Detectors For Dad

Other excellent options at a lower price point include the Radenso DS1 and Uniden R4, both of which we affectionately refer to as our “grab and go” radar detectors. In other words, your dad will run through some initial settings after taking the unit out of the box for the first time, tweaking the detector to his liking. After that, he can prop it on the windshield and drive as normal.

Here are some additional resources from our YouTube channel:

• Escort MAXcam 360c: We put the MAXcam to the test around metro Detroit in this video, which includes dash camera footage driving across the Mackinac Bridge during an extended road trip. 

• Radenso DS1: We cover the high points and essential features of the DS1 in this video, including how we use the “segmentation modes.”

• Uniden R4: One of the best radar detectors for the money, as seen in this video detailing the different settings and features. 

Best Radar Detectors for Dad

Escort, Radenso, and Uniden top our list. Each is available through Amazon, of which Automoblog is an associate and may earn a commission.

Best Overall

Escort MAXcam 360c

Buy Now

Simple & User Friendly

Radenso DS1

Buy Now

Buy Now

Uniden R4

Buy Now

Gifts For NASCAR Dads

NASCAR turned 75 years young in 2023, and NASCAR 75 Years is the perfect gift for dad to commemorate the occasion.

Authored by a quartet of veteran NASCAR reporters and motorsport insiders, the chapters go decade by decade, starting with the 1940s. Packed with historical photos, NASCAR 75 Years showcases the biggest household names ever associated with the sport, including Allison, Busch, Earnhardt, Flock, Gordon, Johnson, Stewart, Yarborough, and more. 

If your dad is also a grandpa, NASCAR 75 Years is a great way for him to share his love of the sport with your kids. We featured NASCAR 75 Years as part of our Book Garage Collection, which spotlights other amazing automotive and racing books that make great Father’s Day gifts. 

If your dad is an avid Monopoly fan who insists on playing during family get-togethers, take a look at these different car-themed boards, one of which includes a NASCAR edition. Likewise, if your dad enjoys tailgating before a race, a new truck tent can make for a great Father’s Day gift.

NASCAR 75 Years

NASCAR 75 Years captures the most remarkable moments of the sport throughout the decades.

Large-format photography brings the stories to life, each written by a roster of veteran motorsport reporters and historians.

Perfect gift for your dad to share his love of NASCAR with your kids.

Get Dad’s Copy

As an Amazon Associate, Automoblog earns from qualifying purchases.

Gifts For DIY Dads

For dads who insist on having a clean vehicle, here are four Father’s Day gift ideas that are sure to be winners.

Two of them, the Fanttik V8 Mate and the Chemical Guys ProFlow, he can use regularly in the driveway at home. The third item from Meguiar’s can still be done at home, although its use will be more sparingly to remove headlight oxidation (i.e., yellowing headlights) as it happens over time.

The fourth item, a set of upgraded rubber floor mats, will be nice for Dad during the winter.

Fanttik V8 Mate

Cordless car vacuums, like the Fanttik V8 Mate, offer the convenience of on-demand suction when your dad needs to give the interior a good once-over.

The V8 Mate comes with an extendable and flexible hose, crevice nozzle, 120-milliliter integrated dust cup, built-in stainless steel and HEPA filters, a USB Type-C charging cable, and a storage bag. Three different brush attachments, including a pet hair brush, come with the V8 Mate, giving the battery-powered vacuum more versatility. 

During our review of the Fanttik V8 Mate, we found it to be well-suited for mild interior cleaning jobs, like after a trip to the park with your kids. If your dad needs something for heavy vacuuming around the garage, a standard shop vac is still preferred, but the V8 Mate will suffice for quick jobs.

Over the past couple of years of owning our Fanttik V8 Mate, we have found ourselves using it just as much inside the home as we do inside our vehicle. In our utility room, for example, we often use the crevice nozzle to vacuum up lint on the floor around the dryer or kitty litter. Afterward, it’s easy to clean the nozzle off with a sanitary wipe.

Chemical Guys ProFlow PM2000 Pressure Washer

The Chemical Guys ProFlow PM2000 will make short work of nearly any cleaning job, from vehicles to patio furniture.

Lightweight and maneuverable, the ProFlow comes with a 20-foot water hose, 35-foot power cable, self-locking polyurethane casters, and different nozzle attachments that taper water flow, depending on what needs cleaning. In addition to the family vehicle, your dad can use the ProFlow to clean siding or brick, walkways or patios, and lawn equipment.

The ProFlow is easy to put together out of the box, although have your dad watch this short video beforehand. It includes some quick but essential tips when using the unit for the first time.

Husky Liners X-act Contour

If your dad still has the original cloth mats or a set of all-weather mats that have seen better days, the X-act Contour Floor Liners from Husky Liners will make for a nice Father’s Day upgrade. Before the American-made liners are shipped to your dad, they are custom-molded to his vehicle year, make, and model.

The ProCore and DuraGrip material combination makes the X-act Contour Floor Liners soft and pliable with a no-slip, sturdy surface. Unlike cloth mats, they do not absorb liquid, which is better for melting snow or accidental spills. These Husky Liners have channels that “corral” liquids, allowing your dad to quickly dump them on the ground later while spraying the liners off.

If you think your dad would enjoy a set of Husky Liners, browse through our full review of the X-act Contour Floor Liners. We summarize data from a study conducted by Husky Liners on the X-act Contour Floor Liners and provide some additional photos and installation tips.

Meguiar’s Ultimate Headlight Restoration Kit

If your dad’s vehicle has yellow, foggy, or cloudy-looking headlights, it’s due to a process called oxidation.

Headlight oxidation happens over time as your vehicle is exposed to the elements. If this is the case with your dad’s car, he has likely seen diminished headlight performance at night, which ultimately limits his visibility.

There are home cleaning kits that are inexpensive, easy to use, and provide a noticeable “before and after” effect. Our go-to kit is the Ultimate Headlight Restoration Kit from Meguiar’s. The video below from our YouTube channel provides an overview of the kit and instructions on how your dad can use it.

Best Father’s Day Gifts for DIY Dads

Pressure washers, car vacuums, and headlight restoration kits top our list. Each is available through Amazon, of which Automoblog is an associate and may earn a commission.

Cordless Car Vacuum

Fanttik V8 Mate

Buy Now

Portable Pressure Washer

C.G. ProFlow

Buy Now

Headlight Restoration Kit

Meguiar’s Headlight Restoration

Buy Now

Convenient Gifts For Gearhead Dads

A new portable tire inflator or jump starter can be a convenient gift for Dad when he encounters an unexpected low tire or dead battery.

Portable Tire Inflators

When it comes to portable tire inflators, the best units have a robust material construction, come with various attachments and hoses, and offer good battery life. In our comprehensive guide to the best portable tire inflators, we feature offerings from Slime, Avid Power, DeWalt, and Milwaukee.

The Slime inflator is small and straightforward, while the Avid Power unit has a drill-like design that adds to its uniqueness and versatility. Meanwhile, the battery-powered DeWalt and Milwaukee tire inflators are designed for long-term use and ownership.

Generally speaking, the Slime and Avid Power units are good everyday tire inflators for personal use. The offerings from DeWalt and Milwaukee might be more suitable if your dad works in a profession where tools are a necessity, like a service shop, construction, or farming.

NOCO GB70 Portable Jump Starter

If your dad has an unexpected dead battery away from home, the NOCO GB70 will get him back on the road in no time without the need for jumper cables. The GB70 is an excellent addition to any winter emergency kit, as it offers features beyond the ability to jump a battery, such as a 400-lumen emergency strobe light.

As a more powerful unit in NOCO’s product line, the GB70 will handle gas engines with displacements up to eight liters and diesel powertrains with displacements up to six liters. The GB70 will also jump garden tractors, snowmobiles, four-wheelers, and other marine and RV batteries.

During our review of the GB70, our only critique was that NOCO should flip the location of the charging bank and the flashlight to make it easier to see the battery at night. However, it’s not a dealbreaker, and if your dad needs a better portable jump starter, the GB70 will be a great Father’s Day gift.

NOCO GB70

Durable and compact, the 2,000-amp GB70 accommodates nearly every vehicle.

Integrated flashlight and charging bank provide added convenience.

Mistake-proof design with reverse polarity and spark protections.

See Best Price

As an Amazon Associate, Automoblog earns from qualifying purchases.

Best Father’s Day Gifts For The Money

If your dad loves working on cars or playing with the latest automotive gadgets, consider one of the items above for a Father’s Day gift. We own and use everything on this list, and are confident your dad will enjoy them, too. From all of us at Automoblog in Detroit, we wish your dad a happy Father’s Day. 

Carl Anthony is the Managing Editor of Automoblog and the host of AutoVision News Radio and AutoSens Insights. As a respected automotive industry thought leader, Carl has appeared on numerous podcasts and radio shows, including Wrench Nation, Cars Yeah, The Car Doctor, and Digital PR Explained, in addition to appearing as a regular contributor on MotorMouth Radio on WHPC 90.3 FM. His work can also be seen and heard 24/7 on the Automoblog YouTube channel.

Original article: Father’s Day Gift Ideas For Dads Who Love Cars (2026 Guide)

• The SEL R-Line Turbo is the range-topping variant of the 2026 Tiguan. It features a modified version of VW’s EA888 turbocharged four-cylinder.

• Custom interior treatments include Varenna leather and American walnut wood décor. Unique exterior elements include 20-inch wheels and a black roof.

• The 2026 Tiguan has 10 total airbags, including those for the driver’s knee and the center of the vehicle.

Upgraded Turbo Four-Cylinder

Under the hood of the Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is a retuned version of the automaker’s EA888 evo5 2.0-liter TSI four-cylinder. The turbocharged engine produces a healthy 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque, with most of the shove available from 1,900 to 5,400 rpm.

The SEL R-Line Turbo is the most powerful trim level in the 2026 Tiguan lineup. While the other trim levels still have the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, the output is less than what the SEL R-Line Turbo offers (201 horsepower and 207 lb-ft. of torque).

Power goes to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission (with steering-mounted paddle shifters) and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive.

Differences: Larger Turbocharger & Internal Components

The upgraded EA888 gasoline engine of the Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo differs from the standard version of the engine in a few key areas.

For example, the larger turbocharger enables higher boost pressures, while internal components, such as the pistons and connecting rods, are stronger by comparison, VW said. The SEL R-Line Turbo engine also benefits from a lower 10.5:1 compression ratio and a nitrided crankshaft.

“The engine also has oil cooling for the pistons, as well as variable valve lift on both the intake and exhaust side,” the automaker said. “It still uses Miller-cycle technology to help improve fuel economy compared to a conventional four-cycle engine.”

Similarities: Fuel Injection Pressures & Vane-Type Oil Pump

There are similarities between the upgraded four-cylinder of the SEL R-Line Turbo and the standard engine found in other 2026 Tiguan models. For example, fuel injection pressures have been increased, up from 5,076 psi (350 bar) to 7,252 psi (500 bar).

“There are further tweaks to the intake, intercooler, and lubrication system, including a higher-displacement vane-type oil pump,” VW said. “Changes to reduce friction include optimized chain drives for the cams and oil pump.” 

While zero to 60 times may not be the biggest motivating factor for buyers in this segment, it appears the Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo has the “oomph” and street cred to go against top competitors like the Mazda CX-50 Turbo and Dodge Hornet GT.

MQB evo platform 

For the 2025 model year, the Tiguan underwent a complete redesign. The redesign ushered in the third generation of VW’s popular SUV, which now rides on the automaker’s latest MQB evo platform. Among the benefits was a weight reduction of 170 lbs. compared to the 2024 Tiguan (second generation).

The MQB evo platform also underpins the 2026 Tiguan, including the SEL R-Line Turbo. With the engine upgrades and lighter architecture, the SEL R-Line Turbo should be engaging to drive while offering sensible fuel economy.

Exterior Design

The SEL R-Line Turbo receives a few styling updates to distinguish it from other 2026 Tiguan models.

Front-end design changes include an LED light bar, slimmer headlights, an illuminated Volkswagen logo, and front bumper-integrated air curtains. An aerodynamic spoiler, an LED light bar, and a second illuminated Volkswagen logo complete the rear profile.

SEL R-Line Turbo models are standard with 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels and a black roof. New color options include Avocado Green Pearl, Sandstone Uni, and Monterey Blue Pearl.

Interior Highlights

Like the rest of the 2026 Tiguan range, the SEL R-Line Turbo has a strictly five-seat interior with two rows of seating.

Unique to the Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo is the American walnut wood décor, a wrapped and double-stitched center console, and Varenna leather seating surfaces with massage and ventilation. VW designers relocated the gear shifter to the steering column, freeing up space for a larger center console.

Other standard features include wireless smartphone charging, tri-zone climate control, 30-color ambient lighting, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a power tailgate. Heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel are also standard.

IQ.Drive

VW’s IQ.Drive is standard for the 2026 Tiguan. The package includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, active blind spot monitoring, rear traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and Travel Assist.

The 2026 Tiguan has 10 total airbags, including those for the driver’s knee and the center of the vehicle. Rear-side airbags are also standard.

2026 Volkswagen Tiguan Starting MSRP

The starting MSRP of the 2026 VW Tiguan, including the SEL R-Line Turbo, will be announced closer to its on-sale date this coming fall. The 2025 SEL R-Line starts at $39,755, so we expect the Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo to begin at or above $41,000.

If you have questions about vehicle financing, this Auto Loans 101 guide will help get you started. Volkswagen also offers three levels of extended warranty coverage at the time of purchase.

Carl Anthony is the Managing Editor of Automoblog and the host of AutoVision News Radio and AutoSens Insights. As a respected automotive industry thought leader, Carl has appeared on numerous podcasts and radio shows, including Wrench Nation, Cars Yeah, The Car Doctor, and Digital PR Explained, in addition to appearing as a regular contributor on MotorMouth Radio on WHPC 90.3 FM. His work can also be seen and heard 24/7 on the Automoblog YouTube channel.

Photos & Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.

Original article: 2026 VW Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo Offers More Powerful Engine & New Styling

• The all-electric Kia EV9 SUV has gained a Nightfall Edition model for 2026. Kia introduced the Nightfall styling package a few years ago for the Telluride, Seltos, and Sportage.

• Available for the twin-motor Kia EV9 Land variant, the Nightfall Edition adds a standard Boost function that increases torque output.

• Exclusive to the EV9 Nightfall Edition are 20-inch gloss black wheels and a bespoke Roadrider Brown exterior paint.

Nightfall Edition Styling Enhancements

The Nightfall Edition stands out from its other 2026 EV9 stablemates thanks to a bevy of gloss black exterior treatments: front grille, skid plates, roof rails, lower door side sills, and mirror caps. Black KIA and EV9 emblems also adorn the exterior.

Exclusive to the EV9 Nightfall Edition is a Roadrider Brown paint that “underscores the EV9’s desire to venture off the beaten path,” Kia wrote in its press release about the debut of the 2026 EV9 Nightfall Edition.

Inside, the EV9 Nightfall Edition gains a black headliner and black upholstery with unique patterns and stitching.

2026 Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition Powertrain

In addition to the interior and exterior styling upgrades, the EV9 Nightfall Edition offers an increased torque output.

Available for the dual-motor Kia EV9 Land variant with all-wheel drive, the Nightfall Edition has 379 horsepower but features a standard Boost function that increases torque output from 443 lb-ft. to 516 lb-ft., based on Kia’s estimates.

As a total package, the EV9 Nightfall Edition rushes from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

Battery, Range & Charging

Kia didn’t mention if the torque increase affected the range in its press release about the Nightfall Edition, which debuted at the 2025 New York International Auto Show.

However, Kia did publish its estimated all-electric range increases across the 2026 EV9 lineup, which included the Land variant having a manufacturer-estimated 283 miles of range. That is up slightly from the 2025 EV9 model, which offers an EPA-estimated 280 miles of range per full charge.

With that in mind, the 2026 EV9 Land in a Nightfall Edition guise will likely deliver 280 to 283 miles per full charge from its 99.8 kWh long-range battery pack.

EV9 owners can access the Tesla Supercharger network via a standard North American Charging Standard (NACS) adapter. The EV9 is also compatible with Combined Charging System (CCS) networks, allowing for a 24-minute recharge using a 350 kW DC fast charger.

Max Towing Capacity

Like the range numbers, Kia did not specify whether the EV9 Nightfall Edition’s torque hike would result in higher towing numbers. Thus, we expect it to inherit the towing numbers of the standard 2026 EV9 Land: 1,653 lbs. without trailer brakes, climbing between 3,500 to 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped with trailer brakes and other factory equipment.

Six or Seven-Seat Cabin

The 2026 Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition has a standard six-seat cabin with second-row captain’s chairs. A 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat is a no-cost option to increase the capacity to seven.

The 2026 EV9 offers 41.4 inches of legroom in the front row and 42.8 inches in the second row. The third row has 30.8 to 32 inches of legroom, depending on whether the second row has a bench or captain’s chairs.

In terms of storage space, the EV9 offers 20.2 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row, regardless of whether the second row is a bench or captain’s chairs. Folding the second and third rows opens up 43.5 and 81.7 cubic feet of storage space, respectively.

Kia Drive Wise Package

All Kia EV9 models come standard with the Drive Wise package. It includes forward collision avoidance, blind-spot warning, high beam assist, highway driving assist, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, navigation-based smart cruise control, and rear occupant alert, among other features.

Kia Factory Warranty

The 2026 Kia EV9 leaves the factory with a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile EV system warranty. The coverage includes a 10-year/100,000-mile EV battery warranty. Extended warranties from Kia come in five coverage levels with varying term lengths.

2026 Kia EV9 Starting MSRP

The 2026 Kia EV9 has a starting MSRP of $56,395 for the Light trim level with a standard range (76.1 kWh) battery. At the top of the lineup is the GT-Line, which has a starting MSRP of $73,395. Those figures include the $1,495 destination charge.

The 2026 EV9 Land, which is available with the Nightfall Edition package, starts at $70,395. Expect to pay an additional premium above that for the Nightfall Edition.

If you have questions about vehicle financing, this Auto Loans 101 guide will help get you started.  

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

Photos & Source: Kia Motors America.

Original article: 2026 Kia EV9 Nightfall Edition Offers Dark Styling Elements & More Torque

• BMW unleashed the eye-catching Concept Speedtop station wagon (or “shooting brake”) amidst a picturesque Lake Como backdrop, a sterling follow-up to the Concept Skytop unveiled in 2024.

• Based on the 8 Series, the Concept Speedtop will enter a limited production run, albeit at an expected sky-high asking price.

• BMW previously divulged that its entire lineup will undergo Neue Klasse styling transformations in the following years, and the Concept Speedtop’s shark-type front end is a taste of what’s to come from BMW’s design team.

BMW Concept Speedtop & The 503

The Concept Speedtop left quite an impression at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2025. Never has a station wagon looked so desirable yet so intent in its sport-touring aspirations.

BMW is no stranger to grand touring machines, unveiling the 503 Gran Turismo at the 1955 International Motor Show in Frankfurt. For the time, the 503 had a modern 3.2-liter V8 with 140 horsepower (top speed 118 mph) and a gearbox positioned under the front seat for ideal weight distribution.

Available in coupe and convertible models, it should have sold in droves in the United States. Yet not even Elvis Presley himself could change the tide for the 503, which was plagued by a high starting price and a limited number of potential buyers.

It could be said that cars like the 503 Gran Turismo were too good to be true. Will that be the case with the BMW Concept Speedtop?

Powertrain & Performance

BMW said the Concept Speedtop will be motivated by the automaker’s most potent series-production V8 engine, most likely a 617-horsepower twin-turbocharged unit derived from the current M8 Competition. The automaker didn’t reveal much else during the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2025 event.

Conventional logic suggests the twin-turbo V8 will be paired with an eight-speed automatic and feature a rear-biased all-wheel drivetrain, similar to the M8 Competition. If that holds true, expect the Concept Speedtop to have a zero-to-60 mph time between 2.5 and three seconds.

Shark-Faced Shooting Brake Design

The Concept Speedtop is a refreshing turnaround for the BMW engineering and design team, a sign that BMW styling is (finally) pointing in the right direction.

It takes just a passing glance at the Speedtop’s shark-faced nose and curvy station wagon body to forget some of the polarizing aspects of the Bangle era, including the automaker’s existing penchant for ridiculously oversized kidney grilles.

“The BMW Concept Speedtop is very unique in the automotive industry,” said Head of BMW Group Design Adrian van Hooydonk. “In this way, we have created an exclamation mark for our entire lineup of vehicles, especially for the Touring models.”

The Speedtop shares the V-shaped, shark-nose design of the Skytop, accented by slimmer headlight clusters and a reshaped kidney grille with LED illumination. Meanwhile, the delicately shaped rear has slim taillight clusters and dual exhaust tips.

Unique Color Gradient

The most defining styling element of the Concept Speedtop is the central spline that begins at the hood and extends to the roof-mounted rear spoiler, blessing the vehicle with a “dynamic Touring profile,” wrote BMW in its press release about the Concept Speedtop.

Additional style points include the 14-spoke two-tone wheels and a transitioning color gradient on the roof, which moves from the body’s Floating Sunstone Maroon paint to the Floating Sundown Silver hue of the roof.

Posh, Brogue-Style Cabin

Whereas the Skytop is an open-roof two-seater, the Concept Speedtop is a two-seat station wagon with two doors and a hatchback rear. As such, the design concept has a lavish interior with top-notch materials that befit a sport-luxury shooting brake.

The exterior’s two-tone concept is also evident in the brogue-style interior, featuring Sundown Maroon trim and Moonstone White leather upholstery. An LED light beam in the two-tone headliner mirrors the central spline in the roof, providing indirect ambient lighting.

Luggage by Schedoni

BMW collaborated with Italian manufacturer Schedoni for hand-made leather goods designed explicitly for the Concept Speedtop. The lineup includes a pair of made-to-measure Schedoni bags (that fit snugly in the rear seats) and a matching weekend bag for the luxuriously appointed trunk.

The leather-wrapped cargo area features two compartments, including a lower section for carrying larger items. An integrated light beam provides illumination for the cargo bay at night.

BMW Concept Speedtop Starting MSRP

When BMW unveiled the Concept Skytop, it left an indelible mark among deep-pocketed enthusiasts, prompting the automaker to announce a small production run of 50 units. The Concept Speedtop generated a similar buzz, to which BMW confirmed a slightly larger but still limited production run of 70 units globally.

As for the price, rumor has it that the Skytop starts at around $500,000. We have reason to believe the Concept Speedtop will carry a similar half-million-dollar starting MSRP, thanks to its exclusive two-door shooting brake body and unmistakable presence.

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

BMW Concept Speedtop Design Gallery

BMW Concept Speedtop Gallery

Photos & Source: BMW of North America, LLC.

Original article: Rare BMW Concept Speedtop Offers Beautiful & Bespoke Styling

Affiliate Disclosure: Automoblog and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase the floor liners via the links below. Husky Liners sent us the X-act Contour Floor Liners pictured in this review. Commissions from Husky Liners and other affiliate partners come to us at no additional cost to you. See our Privacy Policy to learn more.

Husky Liners X-act Contour Floor Liners Fast Facts

• Softer rubber material provides an upgraded floor mat without that “hard plastic” feel.  

• Integrated channels make it easy to dump liquids off the liner during cleanup.

• Made in the USA with a limited lifetime warranty.  

• Founded in 1988 by Robert “Bob” Tyler in Winfield, Kansas, Husky Liners is an American producer of molded thermoplastic floor liners and cargo liners. 

X-act Contour Floor Liners

Pros

Affordable

Material Quality & Strength

American-Made to Exacting Standards

Cons

Modest Gaps in Some Areas

92

Shop Now

Automoblog Review & Evaluation Process

X-act Contour Floor Liners Review Summary

The X-act Contour Floor Liners (pronounced as “exact”) from Husky Liners are more durable than a cloth factory floor mat (they look nicer, too!). Custom molded to your vehicle year, make, and model, the X-act Contour mats have applications for both work and pleasure.

Everyday Vehicles

In our case, we placed them in two daily drivers: a late-model Honda Civic hatchback and a Hyundai Kona crossover.

For everyday vehicles like this, the X-act Contour Floor Liners are designed to handle seasonal changes and the varying debris you might have on your shoes during the calendar year, from rocks and pebbles to melting snow and salt. In a similar vein, the liners are easy to clean when needed.

Off-Road Trucks & SUVs

Although we have our X-act Contour Floor Liners in a Civic and Kona, they can be an excellent option for off-road trucks like a Toyota Tacoma/Tundra TRD Pro or GMC Canyon/Sierra AT4. Jeep fans may also appreciate the durability of Husky Liners.

Husky floor mats can be a fun part of the truck ownership experience, which, for some enthusiasts, may also include the addition of step bars, tonneau covers, and radar detectors.

Work Trucks

The Husky X-act fit spec allows the Contour Floor Liners to accommodate work vehicles, including those for farm, fleet, and other heavy-duty applications. Molded channels and grooves “corral” mud, rainwater, and snow so you can dump it on the ground later while spraying the liners off.

Although ideal for carpet floors, the X-act Contour liners will also fit regular cab trucks with a vinyl front-row floor, like a Ford F-150 XL or Chevy Silverado 1500 WT. All Husky Liners can be paired with a bed mat or a headache rack for added protection for a work truck.

X-act Contour Floor Liners

Softer rubber material provides an upgraded floor mat without that “hard plastic” feel.

Molded channels keep liquids away from your shoes and make it easier to dump the liner out during cleanup.

Made in the USA with a limited lifetime warranty.  

Buy Now

Automoblog may earn a commission at no additional cost to you when purchasing via the Husky Liners website.

X-act Contour Floor Liners vs. Weatherbeater

The X-act Contour Floor Liners are closely aligned with the Weatherbeater, another popular offering from Husky Liners. Both are a significant upgrade over a factory cloth floor mat, with the main difference being the materials used.

ProCore & DuraGrip Materials

The X-act Contour liners are softer than the Weatherbeaters due to a proprietary material combination known as ProCore and DuraGrip. The combo gives the X-act Contour liners an advantage over the Weatherbeaters in terms of cleaning time, ease of installation and removal, and overall comfort for long drives when your feet are resting on the mat.

Testing & Validation

Husky Liners subjected the X-act Contour Floor Liners and Weatherbeaters to independent third-party testing to validate the ProCore and DuraGrip materials.

An abrasion resistance test found that the X-act Contour liners were less likely to twist, bend, or curl once installed. Additional testing showed that the X-act liners were up to 10 percent softer on your feet when compared to the Husky Weatherbeaters.

The Husky Liners ProCore formula makes the X-act Contour liners easy to maneuver, place, and shape to the layout of your vehicle’s floor during installation (and likewise for fast removal and cleaning). Meanwhile, the DuraGrip rubber surface is slip-resistant.

Installation Notes

While the X-act Contour liners are quick to install as advertised, we recommend taking a moment to familiarize yourself with the “StayPut Nibs,” also known as the retention posts or grommets that hold the floor liners in place. The ease of use here will likely depend on your vehicle.

OEM Designs Vary

Our late-model Honda Civic hatchback has a more robust retention grommet than our Hyundai Kona, which is essentially a pointed hook. As a result, our Husky Liners were much easier to “snap” into our Civic versus the Kona, which required a little manual muscle to make the hook fit through the hole of the liner.

This issue is less about Husky Liners and more related to the factory OEM specifications, which are beyond your control and vary by vehicle make and model. While this may complicate the removal of the liners for cleaning, it does not change their effectiveness in protecting your vehicle’s interior.

Door Sills & Footwells

Run your hands along the sides of each X-act Contour liner after securing them to your vehicle’s floor. This ensures each one is “snug” along the door sills and footwells.

We noticed some larger gaps during the installation, but we kept working on the material with our hands to minimize them inside our Civic and Kona. Both sets of X-act Contour liners have “settled in” for us over time with a near-perfect fit, with only modest gaps in some areas.  

Fuel Door Latch

The only potential concern is the location of the fuel door latch on the floor of our Kona by the front seat. Despite our best efforts, a section of the X-act Contour liner slightly pushes up on the lever. Although the fuel door has not popped open while driving, it’s worth mentioning if you have a vehicle with a latch in a similar location.

Like the style of the retention grommets, latch placement for fuel doors, trunks, hoods, and liftgates will vary by make and model. For example, while we have this concern with our Kona, our Civic hatchback does not have an interior fuel door latch, making it a non-issue. It’s also only a driver-side concern with our Kona, as there are no such latches on the passenger side.

Rear Liners

For our Civic hatchback and Kona, the rear seat liners are single pieces instead of two separate mats. We like this style of rear mat because, in a rare instance, if we ever did have three people in the back seat, the liner accounts for the middle passenger.

Husky sells the front and rear X-act Contour Floor Liners separately (this was the case for both our Civic hatchback and Kona crossover.

If you don’t have rear passengers often, you can get away with just the front liners. When you view your cart on the Husky Liners website, see what the cost is for the rear liners and go from there according to your budget.

X-act Contour Floor Liners

Softer rubber material provides an upgraded floor mat without that “hard plastic” feel.

Molded channels keep liquids away from your shoes and make it easier to dump the liner out during cleanup.

Made in the USA with a limited lifetime warranty.  

Buy Now

Automoblog may earn a commission at no additional cost to you when purchasing via the Husky Liners website.

Are The X-act Contour Floor Liners Worth It?

They are worth the money if you want a nice upgrade over those factory cloth floor mats or need to replace an older pair of all-weather mats.

The ProCore and DuraGrip material combination makes the X-act Contour Floor Liners soft and pliable with a no-slip, sturdy surface. Unlike cloth mats, they do not absorb liquid, which is great for downpours, melting snow, or accidental spills!

Most customer reviews on the Husky Liners website are positive regarding fit, appearance, and price. Regarding contour floor mats in general, most seem satisfied with the quality and durability of Husky Liners. However, some negative reviews mention fitment issues, poor performance on vinyl floors, and delays in shipping.

If you opt for a set of X-act Contour Floor Liners, we recommend taking a few minutes to run your hands along the liners to close any gaps along the footwell. The best way to clean your Husky floor mats is with a soft brush and a little soap and water. If you need tips on how to clean your vehicle, including ways to make your interior shine, browse through our Car Care 101 Guide with Meguiar’s.

Carl Anthony is the Managing Editor of Automoblog and the host of AutoVision News Radio and AutoSens Insights. As a respected automotive industry thought leader, Carl has appeared on numerous podcasts and radio shows, including Wrench Nation, Cars Yeah, The Car Doctor, and Digital PR Explained, in addition to appearing as a regular contributor on MotorMouth Radio on WHPC 90.3 FM. His work can also be seen and heard 24/7 on the Automoblog YouTube channel.

X-act Contour Gallery (Honda Civic Hatchback)

X-act Contour Gallery (Hyundai Kona)

Original article: Husky Liners X-act Contour Floor Liners (Tested & Full Review)

• The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer Overland Special Edition is a solution for luxury buyers looking for a more rugged family SUV and/or weekend getaway vehicle.

• The Overland Special Edition is limited to 2,000 units and includes factory-spec off-road hardware like 32-inch all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a two-speed transfer case.

• Based on the Wagoneer Series II, the Overland has not abandoned its posh upbringing. The premium features include tri-zone climate control, Nappa leather seats, and a tri-pane panoramic sunroof.

2025 Jeep Wagoneer Overland Powertrain

All 2025 Jeep Wagoneers (including the Overland Special Edition) have a 3.0-liter turbocharged Hurricane inline-six with 420 horsepower and 486 lb-ft. of torque. The twin-turbo engine connects to an eight-speed automatic transmission shared with other Wagoneer models.

Although some trim grades of the Wagoneer are available with a 4×2 drivetrain, the Quadra-Drive II 4×4 system is standard for the Overland Special Edition. The system includes an electronic limited-slip differential and a two-speed transfer case to send 100 percent of the engine’s power to the front or rear axle, depending on the driving environment.

Moreover, the two-speed transfer case has a 4Low setting with a 48:1 crawl ratio and a Rock Mode setting, accessed through the Select-Terrain traction management system. Other driving modes include Auto, Sport, Snow, and Sand/Mud.

Max Towing Capacity

The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer Overland Special Edition has a max towing capacity of 10,000 lbs. when properly equipped. The Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package is standard and includes a trailer brake controller.

Similarly, the Overland Special Edition includes two front tow hooks and a single removable rear tow hook. Aftermarket options, including 360-degree camera systems, are available to assist with towing.

EPA Fuel Economy

2025 Jeep Wagoneer 4×2 models return an EPA-estimated 17 in the city, 24 on the highway, and 20 combined. However, since the Overland Special Edition is a 4×4, those numbers dip slightly to 16/23 city/highway and 19 combined.

Off-Road Hardware

Jeep refers to the 2025 Wagoneer Overland Special Edition as “purpose-built for challenging conditions,” making it the most off-road-ready Wagoneer from the factory.

“From active families to passionate overlanders, we’ve cleverly packaged capability features and content to deliver a full-size SUV that inspires adventure and confidence on every journey, as only a Jeep vehicle can,” said Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf.

The Wagoneer Overland Special Edition has 20-inch aluminum wheels, 32-inch all-terrain tires, a Quadra-Lift air suspension with semi-active damping (to offer up to 10 inches of ground clearance), roof rails, and robust steel skid plates for the front axle, transfer case, and fuel tank.

Meanwhile, off-road technologies include a 360-degree surround view camera and Select Speed Control. The latter automatically adjusts the speed on sloping terrain so drivers can concentrate on steering the Wagoneer.

Jeep Off-Road Pages+ With Adventure Guides

New to all 2025 Wagoneer 4×4 models is a two-year trial of the built-in Jeep Off-Road Pages+ with an Adventure Guides app.

Developed by Jeep and Trails Off-Road, the app provides access to over 200 off-road trail guides across the United States, including Jeep Badge of Honor trails, along with difficulty ratings for each route and downloadable maps.

In addition to the two-year trial of Off-Road Pages+, buyers receive a three-month trial of the optional all-access membership. That membership tier offers an expanded library of thousands of trail guides with over 10,000 waypoints across North America.

All 2025 Wagoneer buyers receive Jeep Connect Services for three years at no cost. The app-based feature set allows owners to start the engine and lock or unlock the doors remotely, among other commands.

Buyers also receive 10 years of access to the Safety and Security Package (including recall alerts and stolen vehicle assistance) and five years of the Vehicle Performance Package, including vehicle health reports.

Interior Features & Special Edition Styling

Despite its rugged inclinations, the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer Overland Special Edition remains as posh as the rest of its siblings, with accommodations for seven or eight passengers. Power-folding third-row seats and a hands-free power liftgate are among the convenience features.

Standard luxury features include Nappa leather, tri-zone automatic climate control, a tri-pane panoramic sunroof, and all-weather floor mats. Technology highlights include a Uconnect 5 NAV 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, Sirius XM, wireless smartphone charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Exterior-wise, the Overland Special Edition marks the first time a Wagonner has received a black-painted roof. The blacked-out vibe continues with dark-colored exterior trim for the headlights, front grille, lower front fascia, and fender flares.

Standard Safety Equipment

All 2025 Wagoneers are standard with full-speed forward collision warning with active braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-path detection, among other driver-assist features.

Exclusive to the Overland Special Edition is a side distance warning and parking assistance for parallel and perpendicular parking spots.

2025 Jeep Wagoneer Overland Starting MSRP

The Wagoneer Overland Special Edition is limited to 2,000 units and is available for order at Jeep dealers. The starting MSRP is $74,835, including the $2,095 destination charge.

If you have questions about financing before heading to the dealership, our Auto Loans 101 Guide can help. Options are available to extend the warranty on any Jeep vehicle, including the Wagoneer.

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

Photos & Source: Jeep Brand.

Original article: Jeep Entices Outdoorsy SUV Buyers With Exclusive 2025 Wagoneer Overland

• The 2026 Infiniti QX60 arrives with refreshed styling elements and an all-new Sport trim. The QX60 Sport gets bespoke styling treatments and 20-inch gloss black wheels.

• Technology highlights include a 3D Around View Monitor with moving object detection, an Invisible Hood View, and 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment.

• Autograph models receive a Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system with a 24-channel amplifier, 20 speakers, and Individual Audio Technology.

2026 Infiniti QX60 Powertrain

The Infiniti QX60 dropped its larger V6 engine for the 2025 model year, replaced by a 2.0-liter variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo) four-cylinder that generates 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft. of torque.

By contrast, the 2024 Infiniti QX60 has a 3.5-liter direct-injected V6 with 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft. of torque. Although the VC-Turbo has less horsepower, the torque figure represents a 16 lb-ft. increase across a wider engine speed range compared to the 2024 model.

The 2.0-liter VC-Turbo of the 2025 model year returns for the 2026 Infiniti QX60, paired again to a nine-speed automatic with paddle shifters. “It is tuned for quick, smooth shifts and responsive performance, with multiple drive modes allowing the driver to tailor the powertrain’s performance to their preferences,” Infiniti wrote in its press release about the 2026 QX60.

The 2026 QX60 is available with a front-wheel (FWD) or all-wheel drivetrain (AWD).

EPA Fuel Economy

The official EPA fuel economy numbers remain forthcoming. However, for the time being, the 2026 QX60 has a manufacturer-estimated 22 in the city, 28 on the highway, and 24 mpg combined with FWD.

2026 QX60 AWD models are manufacturer-estimated at 22/27 city/highway and 24 mpg combined.

One of the primary differences between the VC-Turbo and the V6 of prior model years is in fuel efficiency, both in the city and on the highway.

Max Towing Capacity

When properly equipped, the 2026 Infiniti QX60 three-row crossover has a max tow rating of up to 6,000 lbs. The QX60 Autograph has a standard tow hitch with a seven-pin connector and trailer sway control software.

Infiniti has gone to great lengths with its engineering and testing to ensure the QX60 is capable of having a trailer behind it.

Refreshed Design

The Infiniti QX60 is one of the best-looking three-row crossovers out there. The mildly refreshed 2026 QX60 reinforces that fact with its “Artistry in Motion” design themes inspired by the “intersecting shapes of a serene bamboo forest,” Infiniti said.

It has a reconfigured lower bumper grille and segmented daytime running lights (DRLs) similar to the “digital piano key lighting” of the flagship QX80 full-size SUV. Other changes include new lower door finishers, cleaner surfacing on the liftgate and rear fascia, and standard 20-inch wheels with different designs and finishes depending on the trim.

The front Infiniti emblem is illuminated, while all-wheel drive models have a unique “AWD” badge inspired by Japanese hanko stamps.

Available Two-Tone Paint

Debuting for the 2026 Infiniti QX60 is a Deep Emerald paint job that mimics the “rich green hues of nature and the morning dew,” said the automaker. The color palette includes Black Obsidian, Deep Bordeaux, Grand Blue, Graphite Shadow, Harbor Gray, Mineral Black, Moonbow Blue, Radiant White, and Warm Titanium.

Meanwhile, the QX60 Autograph has a standard two-tone paint job that pairs a Black Obsidian upper body and roof with the preferred paint color or a new combination of Graphite Shadow and Mineral Black.

Refined Interior

The 2026 Infiniti QX60 has a standard seven-seat interior with a bench seat in the second row. Sport and Autograph trim levels have a six-seater cabin with standard captain’s chairs.

Pure and Luxe models have TailorFit upholstery, which is softer and offers better durability than a traditional leather interior. The TailorFit seating surfaces are derived from 65 percent recycled materials. Autograph models have kimono-inspired ripple-stitching over perforated semi-aniline upholstery and open-pore wood trim with laser-etched metal inlays.

Updated Cabin Equipment

All 2026 Infiniti QX60s have a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Google built-in. The features include standard Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The newest addition is a standard 600-watt Klipsch premium stereo with 16 speakers (QX60 Luxe and Sport). It includes four one-inch titanium dome tweeters, a 12-channel amplifier, and an eight-inch TriPower subwoofer.

The QX60 Autograph receives a Klipsch Reference Premiere audio system with a 24-channel amplifier, 20 speakers, and Individual Audio Technology. The latter enables the driver to hear only specific audio feeds from the navigation, music player, or phone calls without disrupting the other passengers.

Interior Room & Cargo Capacity

The 2026 Infiniti QX60 remains a roomy six or seven-passenger crossover SUV. It offers 42.1 inches of legroom in the front and 37.7 inches in the second row. The third row delivers an adequate 28 inches of legroom.

Meanwhile, headroom in the first row is 41 inches, 37.5 inches in the second row, and 35.7 inches in the third row.

Total cargo space remains unchanged from the 2025 model. The 2026 QX60 still offers 14.5 cubic feet of storage room behind the upright third-row seats. Folding the third row opens up 41.6 cubic feet of cargo space. That area expands to 75.4 cubic feet when both the second and third rows are folded.

New Infiniti QX60 Sport

All-new for 2026 is the Infiniti QX60 Sport, the first-ever for the automaker’s popular crossover. The Sport model comes exclusively with an all-wheel drivetrain and second-row captain’s chairs.

Standard features include a custom front grille, a bespoke lower front bumper protector, dark exterior trim, gloss black 20-inch wheels, and an S badge on the tailgate. Additional Sport-exclusive details include Dusk Blue upholstery with blue and black seating and a black headliner.

The available paint colors for the QX60 Sport are Mineral Black, Grand Blue, Graphite Shadow, and Radiant White. The latter two—Graphite Shadow and Radiant White—are available with a two-tone design theme accented by a Black Obsidian roof. 

New Safety & Camera Technologies

ProPilot Assist is standard in the QX60 Luxe, Sport, and Autograph. The Autograph is optional with ProPilot Assist 2.1, which allows mindful drivers to take their hands off the wheel while on certain highways or freeways. Moreover, it can handle acceleration, steering, and braking on compatible roads with an attentive driver.

New for the Infiniti QX60 Luxe and higher is a 3D Around View Monitor with moving object detection. It makes parking easier with eight fixed views around the vehicle, giving occupants a better view of their surroundings.

The Autograph Technology Package adds a “spin” feature for a more comprehensive view. Owners use their fingers on the infotainment screen to “swipe” around the QX60.

Additional camera technologies include a Front Wide View camera (that displays a wide-angle view of the front and sides of the QX60) and an Invisible Hood View system that projects an image of what’s underneath the vehicle as you drive. Standard driver assist technologies include forward emergency braking, rear automatic braking, blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and more.

2026 Infiniti QX60 Starting MSRP

The 2026 Infiniti QX60 starts at $51,200 for the entry-level Pure model, while the Luxe begins at $56,800. Both are available with all-wheel drive as a $2,000 option.

Sport and Autograph are standard with all-wheel drive and start at $61,700 and $66,150, respectively.

If you have questions about financing before heading to the dealership, our Auto Loans 101 Guide can help. Here is a more extensive overview of Infiniti’s Elite Protection Program and whether or not you need the additional coverage.

Alvin Reyes is an Automoblog feature columnist and an expert in sports and performance cars. He studied civil aviation, aeronautics, and accountancy in his younger years and is still very much smitten to his former Lancer GSR and Galant SS. He also likes fried chicken, music, and herbal medicine.

Photos & Source: Infiniti Motor Company.

Original article: 2026 Infiniti QX60 Receives First-Ever Sport Trim, Plus New Klipsch Audio System