Electric Cars

BMW Defies Expectations with Record-Breaking Q3 Sales and Surprising Model Resurgence

BMW's Remarkable Sales Performance in a Shifting Automotive Climate

BMW North America has announced a notable 24% increase in sales for the third quarter of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This impressive growth brings the year-to-date total to 275,385 units sold in the US, marking an 8.5% rise over the previous year. This achievement is particularly striking given the global uncertainties surrounding tariffs and disruptions within supply chains, especially those impacting German manufacturers. The industry is also grappling with accelerated electrification mandates, with hybrid deadlines by 2030 and fully electric targets by 2035, adding pressure on executives worldwide. Despite these challenges, BMW's positive sales figures, coupled with the unexpected inclusion of previously discontinued models in new sales data, have garnered considerable attention.

The Unexpected Comeback of the i3: A Blast from the Electric Past

A closer look at the latest sales data reveals a surprising entry: the i3. This now-classic electric vehicle, first introduced in 2013, might seem like a relic compared to contemporary EVs. However, during its nine-year production run, over 250,000 units were manufactured, captivating a new segment of customers interested in electric mobility without opting for a larger BMW. The innovative technologies pioneered in the i3 laid the groundwork for BMW's subsequent electrification efforts. The appearance of a brand-new i3 in recent sales, three years after its production ceased, is an intriguing anomaly. This unexpected sale coincides with anticipation for the upcoming iX3, slated for launch next year, and the planned introduction of the compact i1 and i2 models in 2027, signaling a renewed focus on smaller electric vehicles.

The Return of the 6 Series GT: A Dream Realized for Enthusiasts

Adding to the intrigue, the sales report also features a 6 Series GT, a model that concluded its North American market production in 2020. The appearance of a new 6 Series GT in current sales figures suggests the possibility of an enthusiast finally acquiring a long-sought-after, previously unsold unit, fulfilling a dream that seemed impossible after the model's discontinuation. These unexpected sales, alongside the overall strong performance, paint a promising picture for BMW in the US market. Should this trend persist, the automotive world may witness further pleasant surprises from the Bavarian automaker.

Experience Elevated: The 2026 Mazda CX-70 Redefines Value and Performance

Enhanced Standard Features and Price Adjustment for the 2026 Mazda CX-70

The 2026 Mazda CX-70 is arriving with a revised pricing structure, starting at $43,780, which includes a destination charge. This represents an increase of approximately $1,960 over the previous model year. To offset this, Mazda has incorporated several new standard features across its trim levels, improving the vehicle’s value proposition for prospective buyers.

The CX-70's Design Philosophy: A Two-Row Evolution from the CX-90

Mazda continues to leverage its flexible midsize SUV architecture, first seen in the three-row CX-90, to introduce the CX-70. This two-row variant, while sharing its underpinnings with the CX-90, aims to carve out its own niche in the market, despite ongoing discussions about its distinct identity. For 2026, it maintains its core design principles while receiving strategic updates.

An Overview of the Seven Available Trim Levels for the 2026 CX-70

The 2026 CX-70 is offered in a diverse range of seven trim levels, ensuring a suitable option for various preferences and budgets. The entry-level "3.3 Turbo Preferred" trim now boasts an array of premium standard features, including ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel, alongside eight-way power-adjustable seating for both driver and front passenger, complete with lumbar support and driver memory functions. Additionally, all CX-70 models for 2026 will feature distinctive blacked-out badging.

Detailed Breakdown of Mid-Range and High-Performance Turbocharged Variants

Stepping up from the "3.3 Turbo Preferred" is the "3.3 Turbo Premium," priced at $47,810. This trim enhances the driving experience with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster complementing the existing 12.3-inch touchscreen, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes a 12-speaker Bose audio system, a hands-free power liftgate, and a specialized towing mode that facilitates a 5,000-pound towing capacity. The "3.3 Turbo Premium Plus" trim, at $51,100, further elevates luxury with Nappa leather upholstery, an adaptive front lighting system, and a comprehensive 360-degree camera system.

Powertrain Options: Standard Turbo-Six and Upgraded Turbo S Variants

Under the hood, these models are equipped with a potent turbocharged 3.3-liter inline-six engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. For those seeking even greater performance, the "Turbo S Premium" ($54,770) and "Turbo S Premium Plus" ($58,200) variants boost output to an impressive 340 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque.

Reintroduction and Enhancements of the Plug-In Hybrid Powertrain

The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option makes a return, featuring a 2.5-liter inline-four engine combined with an electric motor, producing a total system output of 323 horsepower and 369 pound-feet. For 2026, Mazda has extended the all-electric range to an estimated 30 miles, a notable increase of five miles over the 2025 model. EPA fuel economy figures were not fully available at the time of publication, but the 2025 CX-70 PHEV achieved a combined 25 mpg in hybrid mode, consistent with its non-hybrid counterparts.

Pricing and Feature Configuration for Plug-In Hybrid CX-70 Models

The plug-in hybrid variants are available as the "PHEV SC" and "PHEV SC Plus," priced at $45,780 and $48,780, respectively. The base PHEV model includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an eight-speaker audio system. However, certain comfort features, such as the driver memory system, power front passenger's seat, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, and heated steering wheel, which are standard on the non-hybrid base model, require an upgrade to the "PHEV SC Plus" trim.

Competitive Landscape and Strategic Positioning of the CX-70

In the crowded segment of two-row midsize SUVs, the CX-70 aims to stand out with its premium design, dynamic driving characteristics, and the availability of a plug-in hybrid powertrain, a less common offering in this category. Notably, the CX-70 PHEV offers a price advantage of $3,955 over the 2026 Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid, while providing a comparable electric range.

Internal Comparison: CX-70 Versus CX-90 Value Proposition

For loyal Mazda customers, the 2026 CX-70 presents a unique dilemma. It is only $700 less expensive than a similarly equipped CX-90, suggesting that removing the third row does not result in significant cost savings. Furthermore, Mazda offers the 2026 CX-90 in a more accessible "3.3 Turbo Select" trim, starting at $40,330, which comes well-appointed for its price point. While a two-row option makes sense for Mazda’s lineup, the rationale behind creating a distinct model for the CX-70 continues to intrigue industry observer