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.
All-New Hyundai Tucson Spotted in Germany
The next-generation Hyundai Tucson, codenamed NX5, is shaping up to be one of the most significant releases in Hyundai's lineup, according to industry sources. Expected to debut in the third quarter of 2026, the redesigned Tucson will feature a more muscular build compared to the current model, aligning with Hyundai's latest design philosophy. New photos captured in Germany show the refreshed model with production body.
This design language merges a strong, sculpted appearance with retro-inspired elements, drawing visual cues from the Hyundai N Vision 74 concept and more recently the Hyundai NEXO. The SUV will also adopt an off-road-ready look, sources said.
Inside, the '26 Tucson will feature the debut of Hyundai's new Pleos OS. This advanced operating system will be showcased on a wide 16:9 display and feature a clean, smartphone-like user interface. The Pleos Playground store will provide access to a wide variety of apps, giving drivers and passengers a fully connected in-car experience.
A major tech leap comes with the inclusion of Level 2.5 autonomous driving capabilities, as well as the integration of its new AI assistant, "Gleo," delivering a ChatGPT-like conversational interface to support voice commands, navigation and infotainment tasks with natural interactions.
Additionally, the new Tucson will eliminate diesel options entirely. Instead, the SUV will focus on hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains. The PHEV variant is particularly noteworthy, targeting more than 60 miles of all-electric driving range, making it ideal for urban commutes and short trips with zero emissions. Hyundai plans to release the NX5 Tucson around the third quarter of 2026.
First Images Emerge of the Mercedes-Benz Mini G-Class
Mercedes-Benz is planning to expand the G-Class with a smaller model, according to new images.
The new photos of the first prototype were captured in Stuttgart, Germany, and show the new mini G-Class will come as an all-electric EQ, likely accompanied by an identical-looking ICE model.
Already announced at the Munich Auto Show in 2023, the smaller model was supposed to hit the market as early as 2026, but the German automaker just revealed the first details regarding the small G-Class at the 2025 Munich Auto Show and has just starting testing prototypes.
According to details from insiders, the mini G-Class will not be a spin-off of the angular icon with a modified platform, as previously rumoured. Instead, the small off-roader will be based on a completely new platform developed specifically for the mini G-Class.
Mercedes-Benz has not yet officially commented on the drive systems. While industry sources assumed that the smaller G-Class was originally planned as an electric-only car, the project is said to be under review again in view of weak sales figures for the electric G-Class. According to the German newspaper Handelsblatt, Mercedes is considering offering the small G with a combustion engine as well.
Visually, the mini G-Class is to remain true to its predecessor. Mercedes-Benz chief designer Gorden Wagener has hinted at a 'slightly modernised' interpretation: sharper lines, younger graphics for the lights, plus typical features such as the angular profile and the spare wheel at the rear. The new market launch could take place in 2027.
