Car Show

Mitsubishi Reveals Pajero Rally Concept, Dismisses Production Plans

Mitsubishi recently unveiled a striking Pajero Rally Concept, featuring vibrant Ralliart branding, alongside a replica of the Triton ASXR rally truck. This display immediately fueled hopes for a high-performance production model, reminiscent of the Pajero's illustrious history in the Dakar Rally. However, these aspirations were quickly tempered by an executive statement, indicating that such a vehicle is not currently slated for production.

Kunitoshi Itagaki, Mitsubishi's chief product specialist, explicitly stated that there are no concrete plans to introduce a production version of the Pajero Ralliart. He clarified that the company is merely exploring the feasibility of such a project. Despite the absence of a confirmed performance model, Itagaki underscored the enduring significance of Ralliart's heritage to Mitsubishi. The showcased concept, in its essence, is more of a stylistic exploration designed to honor the Pajero's past rally achievements rather than foreshadowing a new performance-oriented vehicle.

The standard Pajero, a robust body-on-frame SUV built upon a Triton-derived ladder frame, is positioned as a premium off-road vehicle. It features a 2.4-liter turbodiesel engine producing 201 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Super Select 4WD II. The fully redesigned Pajero made its global debut on September 2, 2026, with initial market releases planned for Thailand, Japan, and Australia in fiscal year 2026, followed by a broader expansion to approximately 100 countries starting in fiscal year 2027.

The Rally Concept itself, apart from its Ralliart decals, is largely a demonstration of available accessories. It incorporates bolt-on additions such as front and rear fender extensions, a custom C-pillar cover, red skid plates, and a snorkel. These components are fitted directly onto the standard Pajero chassis, without any modifications to the engine or underlying structure. Mitsubishi is currently assessing the possibility of making these or similar accessories available through official distribution channels, suggesting a potential avenue for customers to customize their standard Pajero with a rally-inspired aesthetic.

While a hybrid powertrain variant is anticipated to complement the diesel offering in the future, the immediate focus remains on the turbodiesel configuration and the established ladder frame architecture. The display of the Pajero Rally Concept allows Mitsubishi to gauge public interest in the Ralliart brand without committing to the extensive development of a full-fledged performance model. Should the company proceed with offering these bolt-on accessories as official options, it would signal a clear intention to cater to the demand for the Ralliart aesthetic. Furthermore, the introduction of hybrid powertrains will be a key development to observe in the evolving Pajero lineup.

Mercedes-AMG CLE Mythos: The 641-HP V8 Super Coupe Is Coming

Mercedes-AMG is poised to redefine automotive exclusivity with the upcoming CLE 63 Mythos, an extraordinary performance coupe slated for a 2027 debut. This highly anticipated model, following the SL PureSpeed in the Mythos series, promises a blend of raw power, aggressive design, and extreme rarity, positioning it as a coveted collector's item and a track-focused beast.

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Mythos is currently undergoing rigorous development, with Mercedes-AMG even utilizing the Nürburgring for private testing sessions. This indicates a profound commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance beyond that of a typical high-performance coupe. The vehicle is engineered to be a true special model, drawing inspiration from track-focused machines rather than merely a more potent version of the standard CLE.

Early renderings suggest a dramatically restyled exterior, featuring a more assertive front fascia where the bodywork appears meticulously sculpted around the mechanical components. A prominent hood with a large air intake, observed on recent prototypes, will be a key functional and aesthetic element, aiding in engine cooling. The rear design is equally aggressive, highlighted by a substantial rear wing that far exceeds what is typically found on road-going coupes, along with distinctive stacked exhaust outlets. To achieve significant weight reduction, extensive use of carbon fiber is expected across numerous body panels, enhancing the car's agility and overall performance.

At the heart of the CLE 63 Mythos lies a celebration of the V8 engine, a move that distinguishes it within AMG's evolving lineup. Speculation points to a new twin-turbocharged flat-plane-crank V8 engine, delivering approximately 641 horsepower. While final specifications are yet to be confirmed by Mercedes-AMG, this formidable power output is expected to propel the Mythos into the supercar category, offering an uncompromising driving experience. This level of power would place it significantly above standard CLE variants.

Adding to its allure, rumors suggest that production of the CLE 63 Mythos will be severely limited, with only about 30 units planned for global distribution. This strategy aligns with the Mythos family's philosophy of crafting ultra-exclusive vehicles for a select clientele, intended to represent the pinnacle of the Mercedes-AMG range. Such scarcity will undoubtedly lead to a substantial price premium, making it a highly desirable asset for automotive enthusiasts and collectors.

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 Mythos represents a fusion of exceptional power, bespoke design, and unparalleled exclusivity. Its track-honed capabilities, combined with a rumored limited production run, are set to solidify its status as a collector's dream and a monumental achievement in high-performance automotive engineering. This model is poised to become a defining statement for Mercedes-AMG, showcasing their dedication to crafting vehicles that stand apart in both performance and prestige.

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Audi Reintroduces A2 as Long-Range Electric Vehicle

Audi resurrects its iconic A2 model, transforming it into a cutting-edge electric vehicle that blends innovative design with remarkable efficiency and an expansive driving range. This new iteration, the A2 E-Tron, aims to redefine urban mobility with its compact footprint, spacious interior, and advanced electric powertrain.

Embrace the Future: Audi A2 E-Tron – Small Car, Grand Vision!

The Return of an Icon: Audi A2 E-Tron Reimagined for the Electric Era

More than two decades after its initial discontinuation, the Audi A2 nameplate is making a significant comeback, reborn as the all-electric A2 E-Tron. This revival signals Audi's commitment to sustainable mobility while honoring the original model's reputation for unconventional and forward-thinking design. Scheduled for a European release in late 2026, the A2 E-Tron embodies a blend of aerodynamic excellence and innovative packaging, promising a compact yet remarkably spacious driving experience.

Aerodynamic Mastery and Unconventional Proportions: The A2 E-Tron's Exterior Design Philosophy

The A2 E-Tron's design prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency and distinctive proportions, setting it apart in the compact EV segment. Measuring 170.1 inches in length, 70.5 inches in width, and 61.0 inches in height, with a 109.1-inch wheelbase, the vehicle features short overhangs and a gently sloping roofline that contribute to its unique aesthetic. Key design elements include a prominent black-panel front fascia housing sensors and lighting, sleek daytime running lights, and horizontal LED taillights that accentuate its width. Even the door handles are engineered for efficiency, employing haptic sensors and an integrated wing-like shape. With a drag coefficient of just 0.24, the A2 E-Tron is Audi's most aerodynamically efficient compact model, thanks to its enclosed underbody, active front air intakes, turbulence-reducing wheel arches, minimal tire-to-wheel opening gaps, and specialized aerodynamic wheels. It will be available with 18- to 20-inch alloy wheels, fitted with 225- or 235-millimeter-wide tires.

Innovative Interior Design: Maximizing Space and Comfort in a Compact Package

Despite its compact exterior, the A2 E-Tron's interior is meticulously crafted to offer an expansive and comfortable cabin experience. Audi's "Softwrap" design theme integrates a soft, fabric-covered surface that seamlessly extends across the dashboard, door panels, and into the rear of the cabin. Drivers will appreciate the 11.9-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus display complemented by a 12.8-inch curved MMI touchscreen, which features Audi's AI-powered assistant, an E-Tron route planner, and a suite of connected services. The gear selector has been relocated to the steering column, freeing up valuable space in the center console. A notable feature is the Qi 2.2-compatible wireless charging pad, capable of simultaneously charging two smartphones at up to 25 watts with active cooling. Audi is also introducing its Fidlock attachment system as standard, allowing for easy attachment of accessories like cupholders and bags. Optional features include a panoramic glass roof spanning 17.2 square feet and numerous storage compartments, including space for large bottles. The cargo area offers 14.0 cubic feet of storage, expanding to 47.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, while higher-powered versions also include a small 0.5-cubic-foot front trunk.

Electrifying Performance and Exceptional Range: Powertrain and Battery Options

The A2 E-Tron is powered exclusively by permanent-magnet synchronous electric motors driving the rear wheels, available in four power outputs: 168, 187, 228, and 322 horsepower. The top-tier 322-hp model achieves 0 to 62 mph in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 124 mph, while other variants are limited to 99 mph with varying acceleration times. Audi offers three battery options: 52.0 kWh and 61.0 kWh (both LFP cells), and an 84.0 kWh battery (NMC chemistry). The WLTP range varies significantly by configuration, with the 228-hp model featuring the 84.0-kWh battery achieving an impressive 401 miles. DC fast charging peaks at 183 kilowatts, enabling a 10-to-80-percent charge in 24 to 29 minutes. A standout feature is bidirectional charging, allowing the A2 E-Tron to power external devices (Vehicle-to-Load) and even send energy back to a home grid (Vehicle-to-Home) in compatible markets, effectively transforming the car into a mobile energy storage unit.

Pricing and Market Availability: What to Expect for the Audi A2 E-Tron

In Germany, the Audi A2 E-Tron will commence at €38,350 for the 168-hp variant equipped with the 52.0-kWh battery. Prices for more powerful and feature-rich versions are projected to exceed €50,000, with Audi expected to release comprehensive pricing details in the near future. Regrettably, this innovative electric compact car is not anticipated to be available in the United States market.

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