Electric Cars

Audi has swiftly launched the configurator for its 2027 Q9 and SQ9 models on its official U.S. website, a notable departure from the typical lengthy waits for German luxury brands. This rapid release underscores the Q9's strategic importance as a primarily U.S.-market focused vehicle, designed to contend with established rivals like the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS. While large SUVs are less common in Europe, the Q9 is expected to find strong demand in North America and the Middle East.

Prospective buyers can explore a range of customization options. The standard Q9 model begins at $89,095, while the more powerful V8-equipped SQ9 starts at $119,395. A fully accessorized SQ9, including all available upgrades, can reach a total price of $130,245. Interestingly, Audi offers various exterior paint colors and interior leather finishes without additional charges. Optional enhancements include 23-inch wheels for an extra $2,500, a $1,000 Black Optic Package featuring black exterior accents, and a $1,200 S Sport Package for performance upgrades like red brake calipers and sport adaptive suspension. Luxury features such as automatic doors, an illuminated grille, advanced OLED taillights, and an air quality system are bundled in the $4,750 Luxury Package. For an additional $450, the SQ9 can be configured with captain's chairs, transforming it into a six-seater, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system is available for $950.

With the configurator now live, Audi has commenced taking orders for the Q9 and SQ9, with initial deliveries anticipated in the fourth quarter of the year. While European models will initially be offered with a V6 diesel engine, more powertrain options are expected in 2027. The Q9, alongside the upcoming A2, represents Audi's final models to feature the current design language and a screen-intensive interior. Looking ahead, Audi plans to introduce a new design philosophy with models like the Concept C and Nuvolari sports cars, promising enhanced interior quality, a return to more physical buttons, and a reduced reliance on digital displays, beginning with the 2028 A4 E-Tron.

Audi's proactive approach with the Q9 and SQ9 configurators and its commitment to future design and interior enhancements reflect a forward-thinking strategy aimed at meeting evolving customer expectations while maintaining its brand identity. This blend of current market offerings and a clear vision for innovation underscores the company's dynamic engagement with the automotive landscape.

Toyota has unveiled the 2026 GRMN Corolla, an extreme, track-focused iteration of the already potent GR Corolla. This special edition, limited to just 730 units worldwide, commands a premium price of $64,360, placing it in a similar cost bracket to high-performance sports cars like the GR Supra 3.0 or a well-equipped Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

The 2026 GRMN Corolla is set to redefine the boundaries of what a compact car can achieve on the track. While its 1.6-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine maintains its 300 horsepower output, torque receives a boost to 302 pound-feet. This enhanced power, combined with significant weight reduction and chassis modifications, promises a thrilling driving experience. The vehicle will be meticulously hand-assembled at Toyota's Motomachi plant in Japan, with deliveries anticipated to begin in late summer. Its exclusivity and performance upgrades justify the substantial price difference compared to a standard GR Corolla, which typically retails in the low $40,000 range.

Pricing for the 2026 Toyota GRMN Corolla begins at $64,360 before accounting for destination and dealer charges. This figure positions the GRMN Corolla roughly 50 percent higher than a conventional 2026 GR Corolla and nearly three times the cost of a basic Corolla sedan. The decision to invest in such a high-priced Corolla underscores its appeal to a niche market of enthusiasts and collectors. The limited production run of 730 units, distributed across North America, Japan, Australia, and select other markets, is expected to generate intense demand, with allocation likely to be a competitive process for dealerships.

Toyota has implemented numerous enhancements to differentiate the GRMN Corolla from its GR counterpart. Under the hood, the familiar 1.6-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder engine benefits from retuned GR-Four all-wheel-drive, electric power steering, and stability control systems, all optimized for sustained track performance rather than peak dyno numbers. These adjustments ensure consistent and predictable handling during rigorous track sessions, providing a more engaging and controlled experience for the driver.

Weight reduction and increased structural rigidity are central to the GRMN Corolla's design philosophy. The removal of the rear seats transforms the car into a two-seater, making way for a substantial brace that significantly enhances body stiffness. Further weight savings are achieved through the use of carbon-fiber front fenders and other composite components. The car rides on forged wheels fitted with high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, providing exceptional grip. The suspension system, including springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars, has been entirely revised for circuit use, while upgraded brakes ensure reliable stopping power during repeated hard braking. These comprehensive modifications are largely unique to the GRMN, setting it apart from other GR Corolla models and available upgrade kits.

The interior design of the GRMN Corolla clearly communicates its performance intentions. Deeply bolstered bucket seats and specialized grippy materials are designed to keep the driver securely in place during high-G maneuvers, catering specifically to drivers wearing helmets on the track. Motorsport-inspired trim elements further reinforce its racing pedigree, prioritizing functionality and driver engagement over everyday comfort. The exterior features include distinctive carbon-fiber front fenders, redesigned fascias, and an adjustable rear wing. These aerodynamic elements are not merely stylistic; they are engineered to provide optimal downforce and stability, reflecting Toyota's commitment to creating a vehicle that excels in demanding track environments. For those familiar with Toyota's high-performance endeavors, such as the GR Corolla Morizo RR or classic builds like the AE86 Tom's Racing restoration, the GRMN Corolla represents a culmination of the brand's grassroots racing heritage in a road-legal package.

Ultimately, the GRMN Corolla is a bold statement from Toyota, demonstrating its capability to transform a practical hatchback into a formidable track machine. This limited-production vehicle, with its meticulous hand-built quality and extensive performance upgrades, will undoubtedly appeal to a discerning clientele of automotive collectors and track day enthusiasts who seek the ultimate expression of Toyota's performance engineering.