The IAA Mobility Show is buzzing with Volkswagen's forward-thinking concepts, including the partially camouflaged electric GTI and the compact ID. Every1 hatchback. Amidst these, the ID. Cross concept makes its debut, signaling Volkswagen's strong entry into the electric SUV market. This concept offers a glimpse into the brand's most budget-friendly electric SUV, set to arrive in 2026, challenging the notion that electric vehicles must sacrifice traditional user experiences for advanced technology.
As a crossover variant of the forthcoming electric ID. Polo, the ID. Cross concept embodies Volkswagen's pragmatic approach to electric mobility. Its design philosophy integrates subtle visual cues from iconic Volkswagen models; the C-pillars, for instance, subtly reference the Golf, while the horizontal grille elements pay homage to the classic Bus and the ID. Buzz. This thoughtful blend of past and future is encapsulated in its "Urban Jungle" green paint and striking 21-inch alloy wheels, balancing modern aesthetics with brand legacy.
Despite its modest length of 163.8 inches (4161 millimeters), the ID. Cross concept boasts a spacious interior, reflecting an intelligent use of its dedicated electric vehicle platform. With a width of 72.4 inches (1839 millimeters), comparable to the gasoline-powered Taos, and a height of 62.5 inches (1588 millimeters), it offers a substantial presence. Its design prioritizes practicality, featuring a generous cargo capacity of nearly 16 cubic feet (450 liters) and additional storage solutions, highlighting Volkswagen's focus on everyday usability.
A notable feature of the ID. Cross concept is Volkswagen's commitment to reintroducing physical buttons and knobs, a direct response to consumer feedback. The interior showcases dedicated climate controls on the center console and an array of tactile buttons on the steering wheel, offering a more intuitive user experience. Innovative touches, such as textile-covered buttons on the seats and a rotary knob on the console, underscore a design philosophy that merges digital displays—an 11-inch instrument cluster and a 13-inch central touchscreen—with tangible controls, ensuring a harmonious balance between modernity and usability.
Built on the MEB+ platform, engineered for front-wheel-drive configurations, the ID. Cross is powered by a single motor delivering 208 horsepower, achieving a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h). An unspecified battery pack provides an impressive range of up to 261 miles (420 kilometers) on the WLTP cycle. This robust performance, combined with its efficient platform, positions the ID. Cross as a compelling option for those seeking an accessible yet capable electric crossover.
The production version of the ID. Cross, expected in summer 2026, may adopt the ID. Polo Cross name, aligning with Volkswagen's strategy of reintroducing familiar monikers for its electric fleet. This vehicle will join the ID. Polo and ID. Polo GTI hatchbacks, furthering the brand's electric portfolio. Furthermore, Volkswagen plans to leverage economies of scale by developing Škoda and SEAT counterparts based on these new electric models, indicating a broader electrification strategy across its brands.
At the recent IAA Mobility Show in Munich, Porsche officially introduced its highly anticipated 992.2 Turbo S, a vehicle that marries the brand's storied internal-combustion heritage with cutting-edge electric enhancement. This release is particularly notable as it's poised to integrate an innovative hybrid system, signaling a new direction for the acclaimed 911 lineage. The automotive world is buzzing with expectations regarding its formidable power output and advanced technological features, which promise to redefine high-performance driving.
The speculation surrounding the new 911 Turbo S centers heavily on its powertrain. Industry sources suggest that this latest model will incorporate Porsche's sophisticated T-Hybrid system. This setup is rumored to feature an electric motor strategically placed between a 3.6-liter flat-six engine and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Furthermore, the inclusion of not one, but two electric turbochargers is anticipated, which would dramatically boost the vehicle's performance capabilities. If these rumors hold true, the new Turbo S could be the first road-legal 911 to boast a horsepower figure beginning with a '7', pushing the boundaries of what's possible in a production sports car.
Despite the revolutionary hybrid technology, the 992.2 Turbo S is expected to retain the core characteristics that define the 911 Turbo. This includes its signature wider body, ensuring a dominant road presence, and standard all-wheel drive, which provides superior traction and handling. For the "S" variant, a host of high-performance standard features are anticipated, such as advanced carbon-ceramic brakes, guaranteeing exceptional stopping power. Naturally, with such an array of sophisticated engineering and luxury appointments, a premium price point is to be expected, reflecting its elite status within the sports car segment.
This unveiling marks a pivotal moment for Porsche, showcasing their commitment to evolving performance while embracing sustainable technologies. The integration of hybrid power into the iconic 911 Turbo S demonstrates the brand's forward-thinking approach, aiming to deliver unparalleled driving excitement with increased efficiency. The blend of traditional Porsche craftsmanship with modern hybrid innovation sets a new benchmark for the future of high-performance automobiles, promising an exhilarating experience for drivers who demand both speed and technological prowess.
In the competitive luxury compact SUV segment, the 2025 Genesis GV70 and 2025 BMW X3 present compelling, yet distinct, propositions for discerning drivers. This comprehensive evaluation sheds light on key differentiators, spanning performance, interior design, technological integration, and ownership benefits. While both vehicles vie for attention, their unique philosophies cater to varying consumer expectations and desires. This report aims to equip potential buyers with an informed perspective, facilitating a confident decision between these two formidable contenders.
Unveiled for the 2025 model year, both the Genesis GV70 and BMW X3 enter the market poised to capture the luxury compact SUV enthusiast. The X3, available in two primary trims, commands a starting price around $49,950. Conversely, the GV70, also offered in two main configurations, features a slightly more accessible base MSRP of $47,650. This pricing structure immediately highlights their competitive positioning within the premium vehicle landscape.
Regarding driving characteristics, the 2025 GV70 presents a sophisticated and balanced ride. It confidently navigates various road conditions, delivering a smooth and serene experience, even on less-than-perfect surfaces. Its handling is robust and precise, offering ample acceleration for an engaging drive without sacrificing comfort. In stark contrast, the 2025 BMW X3 maintains the brand's renowned heritage for sporty and refined driving. Its steering responsiveness is notably sharper, and the ride exhibits a firmer, more controlled demeanor, reminiscent of BMW's performance-oriented sedan lineup.
Under the hood, the 2025 GV70 provides robust engine choices. The standard offering is a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating an impressive 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in a swift 5.6 seconds. For those craving more exhilaration, a potent 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 is available, boasting 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 4.6 seconds. The 2025 X3's entry-level xDrive30 trim is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Performance enthusiasts can opt for the X3 M50, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that unleashes 393 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in a mere 4.4 seconds, outperforming its GV70 counterpart in top-tier acceleration.
The interior philosophies of these two luxury SUVs diverge significantly. The Genesis GV70’s cabin exudes traditional opulence, meticulously crafted with authentic, premium materials such as supple leather, sleek carbon fiber, and polished metal accents. This dedication to material quality elevates the sensory experience within the GV70. In contrast, the 2025 X3's interior, while modern, incorporates more plastic elements in areas like the lower dashboard, center console, and door panels. However, the X3 compensates with dynamic ambient lighting that imbues the cabin with a sporty ambiance. A central infotainment display serves as the primary control hub for most vehicle functions. Practicality also sees a difference; the X3 offers a generous 31.5 cubic feet of rear cargo space, surpassing the GV70 by 2.6 cubic feet, along with various clever storage solutions throughout the cabin.
Technological displays are a focal point for both models. The 2025 X3 features a 14.9-inch central infotainment screen, marginally larger than the GV70’s 14.5-inch touchscreen. A distinctive characteristic of the BMW is its curved infotainment display, offering a futuristic aesthetic. The Genesis, meanwhile, maintains a more conventional design with its wide, rectangular screen. In terms of instrumentation, the 2025 GV70 comes standard with an 8-inch digital cluster paired with analog gauges, while higher trims boast a sophisticated 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster. The 2025 X3, by comparison, includes a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster seamlessly integrated with the central touchscreen, forming a cohesive digital cockpit.
Warranty coverage presents another key distinction. The 2025 GV70 offers an exceptional powertrain warranty, extending up to 10 years or 100,000 miles, alongside a limited warranty for five years or 60,000 miles, and three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance. BMW, for its 2025 X3, provides a limited warranty and powertrain warranty each covering four years or 50,000 miles, complemented by three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance. For long-term peace of mind, the Genesis holds a clear advantage.
As a prospective buyer, the choice between the 2025 Genesis GV70 and the 2025 BMW X3 truly hinges on individual priorities. If a plush, traditionally luxurious interior crafted with exquisite materials, coupled with a smooth, composed ride and superior warranty coverage, takes precedence, the GV70 shines as an outstanding candidate. It offers a refined driving experience that is both comfortable and capable. However, if your preference leans towards a more aggressive, driver-centric experience with sharper handling, cutting-edge integrated display technology, and a slightly larger cargo capacity, the BMW X3 stands ready to deliver. Its sporty character and modern cabin aesthetics are undeniable draws. Ultimately, with prices for higher-performance variants of the GV70 3.5T ranging from $60,250 to $69,850, and the X3 M50 at $65,875, a test drive of both exceptional vehicles is highly recommended to personally experience their unique attributes and determine which one truly resonates with your automotive aspirations.