Electric Cars

The upcoming 2027 Audi SQ7 has been recently spotted, showcasing a design direction that surprisingly blends German engineering with notable American and Bavarian aesthetic influences. Despite strategic concealment, enough details are visible to suggest a significant departure from its predecessor. Observers noted resemblances to BMW's X5 and X7, particularly in the subtle taillight treatments. Furthermore, the innovative, non-recessed door handles echo those seen on BMW's Vision Neue Klasse concepts, highlighting an unexpected cross-pollination of design philosophies. The front fascia, with its sharp hood crease and slim LED daytime running lights, evokes elements of the latest Chevrolet Traverse, while the rear taillight graphics bear a striking resemblance to the Cadillac Escalade IQ and Chevy Blazer EV, hinting at a bold, more assertive stance for the performance SUV. Distinctive features like the roof spoiler, quad exhaust tips, and a prominent front grille will ensure its recognition as the high-performance Q7 variant, further enhanced by a narrow, customizable taillight pinstripe for a unique night signature.

Crucially, confirmation has emerged that this powerful new Q7 variant will be a plug-in hybrid. The presence of charging ports on both sides of the vehicle, one for fuel and another for electricity, solidifies its eco-conscious yet potent powertrain. Although specifics regarding the engine remain undisclosed, speculation points towards either an electrified V8, similar to that anticipated for the next-generation RS6, or a robust 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, potentially leveraging the 512 horsepower unit from the Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid. Regardless of the final configuration, consumers can anticipate a substantial increase in overall output, marked improvements in fuel efficiency, and regrettably, a higher price point, with estimates placing the cost around €130,000, or over $150,000.

As the 2027 Audi SQ7 continues its development, with the interior still shrouded in secrecy, the automotive world awaits its full unveiling. While an introduction before the close of 2025 remains a possibility, an official debut in 2026 for the 2027 model year appears to be the more probable timeline. This new iteration signifies Audi's commitment to evolving its high-performance SUV lineup, embracing hybrid technology and distinctive design elements that challenge conventional brand aesthetics. The automotive landscape is constantly shifting, driven by innovation and changing consumer demands. Audi's strategic move with the 2027 SQ7 embodies this spirit, demonstrating how even established marques are pushing boundaries, merging performance with sustainability, and crafting vehicles that not only meet but anticipate the desires of a forward-thinking global market. Such advancements inspire a renewed appreciation for engineering ingenuity and design audacity, proving that the pursuit of automotive excellence is a continuous journey of progress and adaptation.

Acura is bringing back the RSX nameplate, but not in the form automotive enthusiasts might remember. The new RSX is poised to emerge as an all-electric crossover, a significant evolution from its legacy as a compact sports coupe. This bold reintroduction signifies Acura's accelerating shift toward an electrified future, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and sustainability within its vehicle lineup.

The RSX Prototype, recently unveiled during Monterey Car Week, offers a compelling preview of this forthcoming electric model. Notably, this vehicle is not merely another electric variant but represents a pivotal moment for Honda's electric vehicle development. Unlike Acura's ZDX, which utilizes General Motors' Ultium electric vehicle architecture, the RSX Prototype is the inaugural production vehicle to feature Honda's entirely new, proprietary EV platform. This platform initially debuted with the Honda 0 Series concept vehicles, underscoring its significance for both Honda and Acura brands.

While Acura refers to this model as a "prototype," it is widely understood that Honda's concept vehicles typically bear a strong resemblance to their eventual production counterparts. Therefore, the RSX Prototype likely provides a near-accurate depiction of the production model's exterior styling and overall design, though specific details like the vibrant yellow paint scheme's availability remain to be confirmed for mass production.

From a mechanical perspective, the RSX is engineered for robust performance and advanced capability. It will feature a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal traction and dynamic handling. The inclusion of a double wishbone front suspension system further enhances ride quality and steering precision. Additionally, high-performance Brembo-branded brakes will provide superior stopping power. The prototype rides on substantial 21-inch wheels, contributing to its commanding presence, while its broad rear design draws stylistic inspiration from the second-generation Acura NSX, blending performance aesthetics with its new crossover identity.

Beyond its mechanical underpinnings, the RSX is set to debut Honda's cutting-edge infotainment system, named ASIMO OS, a tribute to the company's renowned humanoid robot. Acura highlights this vehicle as a "software-defined" machine, emphasizing its intelligent operating system capable of learning user preferences and supporting seamless over-the-air software updates. This technological integration positions the RSX as a smart and adaptable vehicle, continuously evolving with software enhancements. Furthermore, the RSX will incorporate a North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, ensuring broad compatibility with charging infrastructure, and will offer vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities, allowing it to function as a mobile power source, adding practical utility for various applications.

Despite the excitement surrounding its debut, Acura has kept many key specifications under wraps, including detailed performance metrics, battery capacity, estimated driving range, and projected pricing. However, given its positioning as a potentially smaller model than the ZDX, it is anticipated that the new RSX will be offered at a more accessible price point. As is often the case with Honda's concept-to-production pipeline, a relatively short waiting period is expected before more comprehensive details and the official launch date are announced.