motornews

Honda has rolled out the 2026 Pilot, bringing a more rugged and capable edge to its flagship three-row SUV. The updated model is now available for test drives at Flagship Honda in San Juan, targeting families and adventure-focused buyers. Under the hood, the 2026 Pilot continues with a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 285 hp, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The available i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system enhances traction on rough terrain and slippery surfaces, making it better suited for diverse driving conditions. Inside, the Pilot offers seating for up to eight passengers, with a focus on practicality and comfort. The cabin features a standard 7-inch or optional 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety is handled by the Honda Sensing suite, which includes a range of driver assistance technologies. ALSO READ: Honda To Integrate EV and ICE Ops in Major 2026 Overhaul Flexibility remains a key highlight, wi...

Daimler Truck North America has unveiled its sixth-generation Detroit engine lineup, featuring the DD13, DD15 and DD16. The new range is fully compliant with upcoming 2027 EPA emissions standards and will power heavy-duty trucks from Freightliner and Western Star . The Gen 6 portfolio builds on the existing architecture with refinements aimed at improving efficiency while meeting stricter emissions regulations. These updates are designed to balance performance with compliance, ensuring minimal compromise for operators. Detroit’s engine family has already seen significant global success, with over 1.2 million units sold across on-highway and vocational applications. ALSO READ: Mercedes-Benz eArocs 400 Electric Truck Completes -20 deg C Arctic Testing Production timelines have also been confirmed, with the DD13 and DD15 set to enter production in January 2027, followed by the flagship DD16 in January 2028. All engines will be manufactured at Detroit’s Redford, Michigan facilit...

Tesla has introduced a new entry-level all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the Tesla Cybertruck, priced at $59,990—$20,000 lower than the previous base variant. At the same time, the top-spec Cyberbeast sees a $15,000 price cut, now retailing at $99,990. The new AWD model replaces the short-lived rear-wheel-drive version and brings back key features like adaptive suspension, bed outlets, and a tonneau cover. It runs a dual-motor setup with an estimated range of around 325 miles, though it swaps full air suspension for adaptive damping. Despite these updates, Cybertruck sales remain underwhelming, hovering at roughly 5,000 units per quarter—far below initial projections. Tesla has attempted to manage inventory by expanding into newer markets and diverting units to corporate buyers and fleet operators. Originally unveiled in 2019 with a promised $40,000 starting price, the Cybertruck still sits significantly above that figure. The removal of federal EV incentives in 2025 has further re...

Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) has commenced production of the new Skoda Kushaq at its Chakan facility in Pune, marking a key milestone for the brand’s India operations. Developed under the Group’s ‘Make in India, for India and the world’ vision, the Kushaq continues to be a cornerstone of the INDIA 2.0 strategy. It was the first model tailored specifically for Indian conditions, focusing on high localisation, lower ownership costs, and faster service turnaround times. The updated Kushaq builds on its strong reputation by combining European driving dynamics with improved comfort, advanced features, and a solid safety package. Over the years, it has established itself as a dependable choice not just in India, but also in export markets. ALSO READ: Skoda Exceeds 1 Million Production Mark in 2025, EVs Drive Strong Growth The SUV has played a crucial role in SAVWIPL’s growth, contributing significantly to the Group’s record sales of 117,000 units in 2025. I...

Mercedes-Benz Trucks has successfully wrapped up winter testing of its upcoming eArocs 400 electric construction truck near the Arctic Circle, with temperatures dropping as low as -20°C. The extreme testing phase focused on evaluating traction, stability on snow and ice, cold-start capability, as well as battery performance and charging behaviour in subzero conditions. Engineers also analysed the efficiency of the electric powertrain in harsh climates—critical for real-world construction use. Set to go on sale in April 2026, the eArocs 400 will be built at the company’s Wörth am Rhein facility starting Q3 2026. Final electric powertrain integration will be handled by Paul Group in Germany. ALSO READ: Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 Conquers Gruelling Arctic eNordkapp Challenge Designed for urban construction duties, the eArocs 400 promises locally CO₂e-free operation along with significantly reduced noise levels—making it a cleaner and quieter alternative for city-based projects. ...

Toyota Motor Corporation is set to launch the new plug-in hybrid version of the Toyota RAV4 in Japan on 9 March 2026, expanding its sixth-generation lineup. The RAV4 PHEV will be offered in two trims—Z and GR SPORT—with prices starting at JPY 6 million. At its core is a new-generation plug-in hybrid system producing 242kW, paired with a larger battery and silicon carbide-based power control unit to improve efficiency. The biggest highlight is its extended electric-only range, now up to 150km—significantly higher than the outgoing model. Beyond performance, the RAV4 PHEV doubles as a mobile power source. It can supply up to 1,500W via a 100V outlet, making it ideal for outdoor use or emergencies. Toyota claims it can power a household for up to 6.5 days under a 400W load, or up to seven days in a dedicated power-saving mode. ALSO READ: 2027 Toyota Highlander Goes Electric, Built in the USA The sportier GR SPORT variant brings added edge with GR Performance Dampers developed wi...