Honda unveiled two China-exclusive models, the Dongfeng Honda GT and GAC Honda GT, at the Shanghai Auto Show. These electric fastback saloons are part of Honda's Ye series, meaning 'shine brilliantly' in Chinese. Despite subtle styling differences, both models share a common interior featuring up to six screens. Based on the underpinnings of the P7 and S7 SUVs, they may offer similar powertrain options with ranges up to 404 miles. While reminiscent of global models like the Kia EV6 and VW ID.7, these GT variants are unlikely to leave the Chinese market. European customers will likely see the 0 Series as their next electric Honda option.

The AUDI E5 Sportback is the debut model from AUDI, a China-exclusive sub-brand of Audi, focused on electric vehicles. Distinguishable by its block capital lettering, the E5 Sportback mirrors the design of the AUDI E concept. Built on the 'Advanced Digitized Platform' with SAIC, it offers up to 776bhp, achieving 0-62mph in 3.4 seconds, and a range of 478 miles (CLTC standard). Its interior features a 27-inch 4K display and advanced safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency systems tailored for Chinese roads. The car uses facial recognition for app downloads and adaptive air suspension. AUDI plans to launch two more models by 2027, all exclusive to the Chinese market.

The current Mercedes E-Class generation lacks a full AMG E63 version, but tuning house Brabus has filled the gap by upgrading the Mercedes-AMG E53 to 690bhp. This enhancement, available for both saloon and estate models, boosts the 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six engine from 443bhp to 530bhp through a new control unit. Combined with the unaltered electric motor, it achieves a total output of 690bhp. The package includes carbon fiber enhancements, exclusive 21-inch rims, height-adjustable sports springs, and subtle interior upgrades. Despite the significant power increase, everything comes with a standard three-year warranty. This Brabus version serves as a compelling alternative to the yet-to-come AMG E63 or the BMW M5.

Renault is set to produce the Renault 5 Turbo 3E, a modern electric homage to the iconic mid-engined 5 Turbo of the 1980s. Priced at £135,000, this limited edition (only 1980 units) features a bespoke aluminum chassis and carbon body with in-wheel motors delivering a combined 533bhp. The car aims for a lightweight 1450kg and promises supercar-level acceleration under 3.5 seconds to 62mph. It includes drift mode, customizable interiors, and a 70kWh battery offering around 249 miles range. Despite its high price, interest is strong, with deliveries planned for 2027. This vehicle celebrates Renaultsport’s legacy while integrating advanced EV technology.

The 1990s are often seen as the golden era for motorsport, including rally raid, where manufacturers created powerful off-road racers resembling regular family cars. Citroen's ZX Rallye Raid, unrelated mechanically to the standard ZX, featured a mid-mounted 2.5-litre turbocharged engine producing around 300bhp, all-wheel drive, and carbon kevlar bodywork. Chassis C05 participated in the Dakar Rally from 1991 to 1993, finishing all races despite not winning. Now, it is up for auction at Broad Arrow’s Villa d’Este event in May, with an estimated value between €475,000 and €525,000. Recently restored and repainted to its original Camel livery, this iconic piece of rally history continues to captivate enthusiasts.

New car sales in Russia plummeted by 45% in March 2025 compared to the previous year, according to the Association of European Businesses (AEB), with only 83,000 vehicles sold. This marks the third-worst sales contraction in a decade, following significant declines in 2015 and 2022. The quarterly sales dropped by 26%, totaling 254,000 units. Alexey Kalitsev, from the AEB, warns that the ongoing trend could lead to an industry crisis necessitating state intervention. Many global automakers exited or scaled back operations in Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, exacerbating the situation. Sanctions and deferred consumer demand further threaten the survival of Russia's automotive sector.