Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia
Off-Road-Focused Hyundai Palisade XRT Bound for United States
Hyundai has unveiled the latest iteration of the Palisade, the Korean automaker's flagship SUV, but SEMA News sources recently caught new images of the yet-to-be-revealed rugged XRT model.
Retaining the engine range of the standard model--a 2.5L four-cylinder gas engine offering 281 hp in standard configuration or 334 hp with hybrid power--the XRT model will be differentiated by modified bumpers, front and rear, wider sills, plastic cladding around the wheelhouses and off-road-focused tires.
More details will be released at a later date.
Mercedes-Benz Spotted Testing Next-Generation GLB
Spy photographers have caught a few camouflaged prototypes of the Mercedes-Benz GLB during development testing in Germany, giving SEMA News a first taste of what’s coming.
The bodywork is entirely covered in camouflage, but the proportions strongly suggest we’re looking at the successor of the three-row GLB rather than the hatchback-style GLA. The SUV appears to have a sleeker design compared to its predecessor, incorporating Mercedes’ new styling language.
The front end features slimmer LEDs flanking a large grille that appears to be mounted lower on the front bumper. The greenhouse has been slightly tweaked, as with the upright tail, disguised with fake taillight stickers.
Mercedes’ entire future compact lineup will ride on the new MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, which is compatible with ICE and EV powertrains.
The fully electric models could offer the option between a rear-mounted electric motor with 268 hp, or a dual-motor setup with 375 hp. The EV will likely be available with 58 kWh and 85 kWh battery packs, although its driving range will be shorter than the 466 miles expected from the more aerodynamic CLA.
The ICE-powered lineup will include a mild-hybrid 1.5L four-cylinder gas engine and a small electric motor inside the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The combustion engine is expected to be offered with different outputs, rated at 134 hp, 161 hp and 188 hp, with an additional 27 hp from the electric motor.
Like the current GLB, the new model will offer both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. An AMG performance version is on the horizon, likely with some form of hybrid assistance for extra power and efficiency, according to insiders.
BMW M5 Set for a Facelift
SEMA News sources have captured new spy shots of a BMW M5 cold-weather testing in a refreshed look echoing the "Neue Klasse" design originally intended for the German company's electric vehicles (EV).
The photos show almost a completely new model of the M5, signaled by the level of camouflage on the bodywork, with sheetmetal covering up features such as the longitudinally running central hood crease. However, the distinctive Hofmeister crease on the rear door is not hidden, indicating it is not as new as it looks at first glance.
The headlights will be integrated into a transverse piece, as well as the narrow kidney grilles, while the bumper features large air intakes, and the alloy wheels are equipped with ceramic brakes. The sports sedan does not yet have production lights, according to the images, instead making use of temporary lights.
Although unconfirmed, the M5 is expected to feature the new panoramic display system of the 10th generation iDrive.
Due in 2027, the M5 will likely be a high-powered plug-in hybrid (PHEV).
Volkswagen Tera Micro-SUV for India, South America Surfaces in Scandinavia
Spy shots of Volkswagen's small SUV for India and South America—the Tera—have surfaced, featuring a thinly disguised prototype testing on icy roads in Scandinavia.
Based on the same platform as the new Skoda Kylaq, the Tera will have decent ground clearance, as demonstrated by the new images. It will also be similar in looks to other new Volkswagen models, including the third-generation Tiguan, with a slim upper grille, slim LED headlights and a chunky front bumper.
Although not a coupe SUV, the Tera will get a sloping roofline and stubby taillamps. The Tera will also get large windows and the beltline will curve upwards towards the C-Pillar.
The powertrain details of the Tera are yet to be announced but it won’t be surprising to see Volkswagen use its 1.0L TSI engine with 114 hp mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic.