(TestMiles) – If you’re planning to hit up an auto show this year or just keeping an eye on the latest car releases, get ready—this year’s automotive lineup has something for everyone, from old-school enthusiasts to tech-savvy eco-warriors. With a mix of high-tech SUVs, hybrid beasts, and nostalgic revamps, carmakers are pulling out all the stops. So, what should you keep an eye on? Here’s the rundown, and trust me—some of these are more than meets the eye.
Infiniti QX80: Luxury and Muscle with a Price Tag to Match
First up, Infiniti’s QX80 has rolled out with the theme of “Artistry in Motion,” combining Japanese-inspired luxury with cutting-edge tech. With 400 horsepower under the hood and bamboo-inspired grills, it’s as much a powerhouse as it is a piece of art. Inside, you’re greeted with dual 14.3-inch screens handling navigation and entertainment—perfect for tech enthusiasts who crave a digital cockpit experience.
But here’s the kicker: it’s priced at $82,450. That’s a hefty sum. The question is, does all that luxury justify the price tag? Infiniti seems to think so. And if luxury and brute strength are your things, the QX80 might just be worth it.
Kia K4: A Glimpse into the Future
Move over, Kia Forte—there’s a new kid on the block. The Kia K4 brings a futuristic design, including hidden door handles and nearly 30 inches of screen space inside. Dubbed the “Opposites United” aesthetic, it’s bold, sleek, and packed with enough tech to make you feel like you’re driving tomorrow’s car today.
And here’s a bit of futuristic magic for you: you can unlock it with just your phone. Kia’s not just pushing boundaries—they’re redefining them. The K4 is designed to make a statement, and it’s a serious contender in the mid-sized sedan game.
Audi Q6 e-tron: Clean, Green, and Luxury-Filled
Audi has jumped into the electric vehicle (EV) race with the all-electric Q6 e-tron, built on the same EV platform as Porsche’s Macan. With a solid 300-mile range, it’s Audi’s latest bid for EV dominance. The Q6 promises the best of both worlds—luxury without emissions. Audi’s iconic design language is intact, but now with a greener twist.
For those hesitant about EVs, Audi’s Q6 is designed to soothe any range anxiety with style. It’s a clean machine without compromise, proving that sustainable driving doesn’t mean you have to give up the lap of luxury.
BMW M5: Hybrid with a Need for Speed
BMW’s new M5 is shaking things up with a 717-horsepower hybrid engine, rocketing from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds. So if you thought hybrids were only for the eco-conscious, think again—this beast is a track-ready powerhouse. The tech upgrades ensure that you can manage that speed at every corner, making it as thrilling as it is eco-friendly.
In short, this isn’t just a hybrid. It’s a thrill ride, proving that hybrid tech can be about power, not just fuel economy.
Cadillac Escalade IQ: The Bold Move into Electric SUVs
Launching next year, the Cadillac Escalade IQ is Cadillac’s most daring step into the EV world. Known for its massive, gas-guzzling Escalades, Cadillac is now flipping the script with an all-electric model. It’s not just another EV; it’s a statement on the brand’s commitment to luxury and environmental responsibility.
For those skeptical about an electric Escalade, Cadillac is betting this model will change minds about what electric luxury can look like. Expect heads to turn.
Toyota 4Runner: Built for Adventure
Toyota’s 2025 4Runner isn’t your average SUV. It’s rugged, tech-savvy, and ready for anything from urban jungles to off-road trails. Built on Toyota’s TNGA-F platform, the 4Runner brings classic durability with high-tech twists. It’s the SUV for those who need a weekend warrior that’s as comfortable on trails as it is in city parking lots.
Toyota’s blending of off-road prowess with a tech-heavy interior makes the 4Runner perfect for adventurers who want to bring the latest gadgets on their journeys.
Honda Prologue: Honda’s First All-Electric SUV
The Honda Prologue marks Honda’s first serious step into the electric SUV market, utilizing GM’s Ultium battery platform for dependable range and reliability. Honda fans have been waiting for this, and the Prologue doesn’t disappoint. It promises sustainable driving without skimping on reliability—a perfect match for Honda’s loyal base.
For Honda, the Prologue is more than just a model; it’s a commitment to greener driving that stays true to Honda’s reputation for dependability.
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Final Edition: A V8 Farewell
Jeep fans, prepare yourselves—the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Final Edition is saying goodbye to the V8. Limited to just 3,700 units globally, this 6.4-liter HEMI V8-powered beast is already a collector’s item. From a factory winch to a rock-ready grille guard, it’s loaded for the roughest terrain. This Wrangler is a final salute to gas-powered off-roading.
For those willing to pay a premium, it’s the ultimate in exclusivity. Jeep’s electrified future may be on the horizon, but this Final Edition is a fitting farewell to V8 thrills.
Toyota Prius: A Lean, Green Machine
The 2025 Prius has a top fuel efficiency of 57 mpg in the city and does 0 to 60 in just 7.1 seconds. If you thought Prius was synonymous with “slow and steady,” think again. Toyota has taken its green champion and added a bit of zip. For eco-conscious drivers who want to save gas without sacrificing speed, the new Prius is a lean, green, speedier machine.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz: Nostalgia Meets Modern Tech
Volkswagen has tapped into nostalgia with the ID. Buzz, an all-electric microbus that takes you back to the good ol’ days—only now, it’s electric. Designed for eco-minded families who love a touch of the past, the ID. Buzz is both a modern icon and a callback to VW’s classic microbus.
Ford Maverick Del Lobo: The Urban Adventurer
The Ford Maverick Del Lobo combines the utility of a truck with the spirit of a hatchback, perfect for city-dwellers with a penchant for adventure. Think of it as the compact pickup reimagined as a sporty urban companion. It’s compact, capable, and designed for city streets—but it won’t shy away from a bit of off-road fun.
The Road Ahead
This year’s lineup proves one thing: automotive innovation is about much more than just adding gadgets. It’s about reimagining how we move, blending sustainability, speed, nostalgia, and pure driving pleasure. Whether you’re after raw power, eco-conscious motoring, or a trip down memory lane, there’s something here for everyone.
So, what’ll be your next ride?