HYUNDAI IONIQ 9, ELANTRA N TCR, FASTER EV6 GT + MORE LA AUTO SHOW DEBUTS! WEEKLY UPDATE

EV Channels Review

This weekly update from Matt Maran Motoring covers a wide array of automotive news, with a significant focus on new debuts from the LA Auto Show. The Hyundai IONIQ 9 is highlighted as a promising three-row EV, sharing the E-GMP platform with the Kia EV9 but offering slightly more interior and cargo space. It boasts a 110.3 kWh battery with over 300 miles of range, available in RWD, AWD, and performance trims, with charging times of 24 minutes from 10-80% on a 350kW charger. The Elantra N TCR Edition is also discussed, noted for its handling upgrades like forged wheels and monoblock brakes, though it surprisingly lacks any power increase. The Kia EV6 receives a refresh with a larger battery option, improved range (up to 319 miles), and a power boost for the GT model to 641 hp, along with the addition of the NACS port. The Kia EV9 GT is also introduced, offering 501 hp and a quicker 0-60 time, though the reviewer questions its necessity given the EV9's current sales. Genesis unveils refreshed GV70 and Electrified GV70 models with a new 27-inch curved display and an 84 kWh battery for the EV variant. The 2025 VW Tiguan is presented as an all-new generation with a longer wheelbase, reduced weight, and significantly updated interior tech, though it drops the third-row option. Fiat's 500e Giorgio Armani Collector's Edition is met with skepticism. The update also touches on Jaguar's controversial new branding, Lotus's shift from an all-EV goal to plug-in hybrids, executive changes at Hyundai and VW, Ford's European layoffs, Ford's Ranger Super Duty for Australia, GM's layoffs and testing consolidation, Ram's delayed 1500 REV and Ramcharger, and Mercedes's next-gen CLA with impressive EV range and charging capabilities. Overall, the episode provides a comprehensive overview of recent automotive developments.