Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia
Spy photographers have once again caught several upcoming vehicles undergoing testing, giving an early glimpse at what's to come before they officially debut.
Performance Variant of the Chinese Xiaomi YU7 SUV Spotted in Germany
The performance variant of the Xiaomi YU7 electric crossover was recently spotted on the Nürburgring Nordschleife during tests. This model will reportedly enter the domestic market under the YU7 GT name. The new crossover is distinguished by wide wheel arches, a lower ground clearance and a distinguishing colour scheme.
The performance variant of the Xiaomi YU7 crossover was previously seen in China in July this year, shortly after its regular variant started domestic sales. Earlier reports suggested that the new car will be called the YU7 Ultra, aligning with the previously released SU7 Ultra performance sedan. However, according to insiders, the vehicle pictured in Germany will be called Xiaomi YU7 GT.
The rear fenders of the Xiaomi YU7 GT are broadened compared to the regular model in order to house the expected wide, 305-mm tires. The car also adopts 21-in. wheels and large ceramic brake discs with yellow callipers, similar to the SU7 Ultra. The SUV has a large ducktail spoiler, frameless side-view mirrors, flush door handles and a LiDAR sensor on the roof.
The Xiaomi YU7 GT will likely adopt the powertrain of the previously launched SU7 Ultra comprised of three electric motors. The front axle has a single electric motor producing 288 kW (286 hp) of power. The rear axle adopts two electric motors with 450 kW (570 hp) each. The combined peak power output of the system reaches 1,138 kW (1,526 hp).
Previously, the Xiaomi YU7 Ultra performance sedan turned into a benchmark for global manufacturers as it was spotted at Ferrari's Maranello factory in Bologna. It was suggested that the Italian car manufacturer was studying the vehicle for its upcoming electric platform. The YU7 GT SUV could possibly intensify the competition in the segment of high-performance crossovers.
More Power, More Sportiness: Kia Confirms EV3 GT
Kia has confirmed that a high-performance model for the EV3 is on the way, with an expected launch later next year. Although specific specifications remain under wraps, SEMA News sources have learned new details on how the EV3 GT will set itself apart from the standard model.
Different from the standard model, the GT model will integrate electric motors on both the front and rear axles, resulting in an all-wheel-drive system that is anticipated to deliver performance on part with the previously launched EV6 GT.
The Kia EV6 GT showcases remarkable specifications, featuring a 270-kW (367 hp) rear motor paired with a 160-kW (218 hp) front motor, yielding a total output of 450 kW (585 hp). This power enables the EV6 GT to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Unlike other manufacturers that utilize gearboxes to boost speed, Kia employs a high-performance motor capable of reaching up to 21,000 rpm, according to the manufacturer.
The GT variant of the EV3 is set to receive several design updates. Spy photos of a test vehicle from southern Spain showcase a more aggressive bumper design and the inclusion of 19-in. tires, a jump up from the 17-in. tires found on the standard model, which is designed to optimize driving range. Yellow callipers and GT-branded seats with yellow stitching complete the sporty character of the most powerful EV3.
Status Over Range: '27 Bentley Urban SUV
In 2026, Bentley will unveil its first fully electric SUV. Compact, elegant and featuring high-end technology from the VW Group, it is primarily aimed at urban and affluent buyers, according to sources.
The car aims to kill two birds with one stone: compact enough to allow the driver to navigate the urban jungle with ease, but a large battery to also make country trips possible and enjoyable.
The first fully electric Bentley will have a battery of "impressive size," explained Bentley CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser, adding: "The charging speed is the best you can get." At the same time, he said, the new Bentley is not a car for long distances. But that's not a bad thing, because, "Bentley owners don't drive 1,000 km in a day. That's something for truck drivers. Bentley owners take the plane."
The new Bentley will be built on the Porsche/Audi platform used in the Porsche Macan and the Audi A6 and Q6 e-tron, sources said. The Macan has two electric motors delivering a peak output of 630 hp, plus a 95 kWh battery with 800 volts the can be charged from 10% to 80% in 21 minutes.
The name of the new Bentley has not yet been decided. However, in February, the company registered trademark rights for Mayon and Barnato. One of these names could therefore be used for the new SUV.
Bentley is likely to initially target the Chinese market with the new electric car, according to reports. Unlike Bentley's European customers, buyers in China have a particular fondness for pure electric cars. In addition, SUVs sell extremely well there, even though drivers primarily use them to navigate the streets of huge cities.
