Toyota has introduced subtle yet impactful updates to the GR Yaris for the 2025 model year. The compact performance car continues to captivate enthusiasts with its dynamic capabilities, though it remains unavailable in certain markets like the UK. These enhancements aim to elevate the driving experience by fine-tuning existing features. Among the changes is a recalibrated automatic transmission that broadens the rev range for downshifting, addressing previous feedback from drivers who desired quicker gear changes. Additionally, improvements have been made to how the vehicle handles uphill acceleration in automatic mode.
The mechanical adjustments extend beyond the gearbox. Toyota engineers have redesigned suspension bolts with wider heads and thicker flanges, contributing to enhanced steering precision and straight-line stability. To complement these changes, the shock absorbers' damping force has been modified, striking a balance between better chassis control and improved ride comfort. Moreover, professional racing driver Kazuya Oshima contributed to refining the power steering settings, ensuring a more responsive and engaging drive. A notable addition is the optional rally-style vertical handbrake, designed to make controlled slides easier during spirited driving sessions on closed tracks.
While the exterior largely retains its original design, an optional Aero Performance Package debuts in Japan, featuring aerodynamic enhancements such as a vented aluminum hood and adjustable rear spoiler. Despite these cosmetic upgrades, the core appeal of the GR Yaris remains unchanged. As the upgraded model becomes available across Europe, anticipation grows for its potential reintroduction to the UK market. These refinements underscore Toyota's commitment to delivering high-performance vehicles that meet both driver expectations and modern safety standards, reinforcing the brand's dedication to innovation and quality.
The BMW Group has experienced a significant 32.4% increase in fully electric vehicle (EV) sales during Q1 of 2025 compared to the same period the previous year, highlighting growing consumer interest in its EV lineup. The group delivered a total of 586,149 vehicles globally in Q1, with Europe and the US seeing growth rates of 6.2% and 4.0%, respectively. Excluding China, the company achieved an impressive 5.9% growth. Notably, BMW Group sold 109,516 EVs worldwide across all brands, including BMW, Mini, and Rolls-Royce models. In Europe, EV sales surged by 64.2%, while one-third of Mini vehicles sold were fully electric.
Besides overall EV success, the BMW brand specifically reported a 9.9% increase in global sales of fully electric vehicles, delivering 86,449 EVs between January and March. Additionally, the M division experienced a 5.0% sales boost due to strong demand for high-performance models like the BMW M5 sedan and M3 sports car. The Mini brand also contributed positively, with a 4.1% rise in sales and 64,626 units sold globally. Fully electric vehicles constituted 35.3% of all Mini sales in Q1. The BMW Group aims to deliver 1.5 million fully electric vehicles worldwide this year as part of its ambitious electrification strategy.
Electric Success Across Brands
BMW Group's diverse EV lineup is driving substantial growth in various regions. With over 109,516 EVs sold globally, the company's brands have seen remarkable adoption. In Europe, EV sales increased dramatically by 64.2%, reflecting a strong preference for sustainable mobility solutions. Key markets such as Europe and the US witnessed steady growth, contributing significantly to the overall delivery numbers. Furthermore, the Mini brand played a pivotal role in this success, achieving a 4.1% increase in sales, with 35.3% of these being fully electric.
In detail, BMW Group's technology-open strategy has been instrumental in this achievement. This approach allows customers to choose from a wide range of drive technologies, appealing to different preferences and needs. The Mini brand exemplifies this strategy, with one in three Minis sold in Europe being fully electric. In China, the proportion is even higher, surpassing 50%. These figures underscore the effectiveness of the new Mini models, especially their fully electric variants, which are resonating well with environmentally conscious consumers. As a result, the Mini brand not only boosts EV sales but also strengthens the company's commitment to sustainability.
Ambitious Electrification Goals
Beyond current achievements, BMW Group is setting bold targets for its electrification journey. The company aims to reach a cumulative total of three million electrified vehicles since the launch of the BMW i3 and i8. Simultaneously, it plans to deliver 1.5 million fully-electric vehicles globally this year. Such aspirations highlight the company's dedication to transitioning toward a more sustainable future. By leveraging innovative technologies and expanding its EV lineup, BMW Group is positioning itself as a leader in the automotive industry's shift toward electrification.
To achieve these goals, BMW Group continues to enhance its product offerings and refine its production processes. The integration of cutting-edge technologies ensures that each model meets the highest standards of performance and efficiency. For instance, the BMW brand reported a 9.9% increase in global sales of fully electric vehicles, delivering 86,449 EVs in Q1. Similarly, the M division experienced a 5.0% sales boost, driven by robust demand for high-performance models like the BMW M5 sedan and M3 sports car. These developments demonstrate the company's ability to balance innovation with tradition, ensuring continued success in both conventional and emerging markets. Through sustained investment in research and development, BMW Group remains committed to delivering exceptional value to its customers while reducing its environmental footprint.
A wave of cutting-edge advancements is set to redefine the Renault Scenic E-Tech, enhancing its appeal for modern drivers. One of the standout features introduced is the innovative "One Pedal" driving mode. This technology empowers drivers to manage acceleration, deceleration, and stopping with just the accelerator pedal, offering a smoother ride and reducing wear on brake pads. Additionally, the car's energy recovery capabilities are boosted through this system, developed by Ampere. Owners of older models equipped with steering-wheel paddles can also benefit from this upgrade via a free installation at Renault service centers or an over-the-air software update.
In addition to enhanced drivability, charging convenience has been significantly improved for the Scenic E-Tech. Every model now comes standard with an 11 kW AC two-way charger compatible with both single-phase and three-phase power supplies. By mid-2025, an optional 22 kW AC bidirectional fast charger will be available, allowing users to gain approximately 80 kilometers of range within half an hour at public stations. Furthermore, the Scenic E-Tech now functions as a mobile power source thanks to a power-to-load (V2L) adapter, enabling owners to operate appliances like coffee makers and barbecues using up to 3.7 kW of power from the car's battery. In France, the vehicle-to-grid (V2G) system allows electricity to flow back into the grid, potentially lowering household energy costs.
Inside the cabin, Renault continues to prioritize driver comfort and convenience. The Esprit Alpine trim now features front seats with six-way electric adjustments, complementing existing lumbar support and heating options. A massage function has also been added to the driver’s seat. Meanwhile, the Iconic version introduces two new interior styles, including titanium black with Alcantara accents and pure cool grey with linden wood highlights. Redesigned front seats and rear benches provide better side support. Driver recognition systems integrated into the left-side A-pillar camera personalize settings such as radio presets, media choices, seat positions, mirrors, and downloaded apps. Safety enhancements include a fatigue monitoring app that suggests breaks when signs of tiredness are detected. Google services have been upgraded to allow journey planning from smartphones, automatic route recalculations, and community-based warnings for road hazards. Connected maintenance keeps owners informed about servicing needs through alerts and predictive analytics, ensuring optimal vehicle performance. With these updates, Renault demonstrates its commitment to delivering intuitive, comfortable, and connected experiences for families in the EV space. Notably, the updated Scenic E-Tech offers competitive pricing, starting below $42,000 in both the UK and France, marking nearly a $2,000 reduction compared to previous versions.
Through its comprehensive updates, Renault showcases how innovation can transform electric vehicles into indispensable companions for everyday life. These advancements not only enhance convenience and safety but also foster a sense of community and environmental responsibility. As technology continues to evolve, so too does the potential for cars to become smarter, greener, and more attuned to human needs. The Scenic E-Tech exemplifies this vision, proving that progress in automotive design can lead to a brighter, more sustainable future for all.