Mercedes and Nissan Unveil New Models
In 2026, numerous new cars will make their market debut. Starting next year, these will include small Mercedes SUVs, three new Nissans, and a Polestar 5 in showrooms.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class EQ: Following the i3
Not only BMW is launching an electric equivalent of its mid-range car, but also Mercedes-Benz. This won’t be the EQC, but the C-Class with EQ technology. A sedan that follows its own path in terms of both its powertrain and its appearance. It sits on the 800V MB.EA platform and will receive a version with two electric motors together producing 489 hp and a 94-kWh battery. Fast charging is possible at 330 kW. Expect milder rear-wheel-drive versions as well as a more potent AMG.
Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ Technology: Farewell, EQC
Forget the Mercedes-Benz EQC; its successor is called ‘GLC with EQ technology’. However, the concept is quite similar, as this is again an EV that bears some resemblance to the regular GLC. Its distinctive grille and special taillights still give it its own face. At the time of writing, only a 489 hp GLC 400 4Matic with a 94-kWh battery and 713 km range has been announced. Here too, you can expect milder rear-wheel-drive versions. The GLC with EQ technology is allowed to tow as much as 2,400 kilograms.
Mercedes-AMG Concept AMG GT XX and Electric SUV: AMG Joins In
Mercedes-AMG is enthusiastically participating in the parent company’s electric ambitions. This will soon lead to electric models that exclusively bear the AMG badge. One of these is the production version of the immensely powerful 1,360 hp GT XX, a four-door supercar that not only exceeds 350 km/h but can also be charged at an impressive 850 kW. A sporty SUV is also in the pipeline, which appears to adopt some design features of the GT XX.
Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB: The ‘Little Ones’
They are not exactly small, but the new Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB are at the bottom of the brand’s SUV food chain. A new generation of both models is coming, and both will largely retain the same shape. The GLB is once again a somewhat more angular brother of the GLA. What’s new is that they will come to market with both mild-hybrid and fully electric powertrains. These will feature an 800V on-board network and a substantial 300 kW charging capacity at the fast charger.
Mercedes-Benz Vision V: Electric Space Giant
The Mercedes-Benz Vito and V-Class already have electric versions, but a new generation of vans is coming that has been designed for electric drive from the outset. The VAN.EA platform has been developed for this, while fuel-powered vans will also be built on a base called VAN.CA. Technical information is not yet available at the time of writing. Mercedes-Benz’s new commercial vehicles appear to be adopting somewhat rounder shapes.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: Japanese Scenic
After the Renault Clio and Captur, the Renault Scenic now serves as the model for a Mitsubishi. This fully electric Mitsubishi bears the name Eclipse Cross and, despite some distinctive external features, is still very recognizable as a Scenic. Mitsubishi currently only offers the large 87-kWh battery, combined with an electric motor of 220 hp. The Scenic is also available with a 60-kWh battery. The Eclipse Cross is somewhat more expensive than the Scenic, but in return, you get eight instead of two years of warranty.
Nissan Juke: Still Quirky
The third generation of the Nissan Juke is on its way, and it promises to be a very distinctively designed car, just like its predecessors. So, no surprises in that regard, but technically there are, as the new Juke will always be fully electric. It is related to the Renault 4, so we expect a crossover of about 4.2 meters long with 120 or 150 hp of power and a range of up to 400 km.
Nissan Leaf: Sleeker Than Ever
The Nissan Leaf was once a pioneer, but it hasn’t been for a long time. It’s time for Nissan to catch up in the competitive landscape with a new Leaf. The new Leaf is more of a crossover, with a sloping roofline. It has a very usable maximum range of over 600 km and will have 117 or 218 hp of power. Notably, it’s taller but 14 cm shorter than the old Leaf. With 437 liters of luggage space, you can utilize 37 liters more in the back than before.
Nissan Pixo: The Third of a Triple
You could already read about Dacia’s Renault Twingo in this overview, but Nissan is also benefiting from the compact Frenchman. Nissan’s version may be called Pixo, according to a registration found by AutoWeek. Nissan previously used that name for its version of the Suzuki Alto. Just like with the Renault, the starting price should be below twenty thousand euros. It’s going to get crowded at the bottom end of the EV market!
Opel Manta: New Flagship Model
The Opel Insignia has been gone for a while, but a new flagship model is in the works: the Manta. Previously, it was a sportily styled coupe; the new Manta will be an electric crossover with a sloping roofline. It will be a cousin of the Lancia Gamma and the DS Numéro 8, among others, so we can expect a range of over 700 km, as well as front- and all-wheel drive.
Polestar 5: Long-Awaited Debut
For years, Polestar has been showing us prototypes of the Polestar 5, but now it’s time for the real deal. It will compete with the Porsche Taycan, among others, boasting outputs from 748 hp to an impressive 884 hp, a range of up to 670 km, and fast charging at 350 kW. Prices are also available. The Dual Motor costs €120,600 and the more powerful Dual Motor Performance €144,000.
Porsche Cayenne Electric and 718: Following the Macan…
The Porsche Macan received an electric successor, and now an electric Cayenne is also on the way. This, however, will not replace the combustion engine Cayenne. The Cayenne Electric is quite impressive, with up to over 1,000 hp of power and a range of over 600 km. The Porsche 718 will also get an electric successor and presumably shares its platform with the Macan.