The automotive world turned a new page in late 2026 as two heavyweight platforms released fresh content. CAR magazine rolled out its November edition packed with first-drive impressions, rigorous road-tests and a forward-looking insight column. Simultaneously, the Paris Motor Show opened its doors for the 91st edition, unveiling an A-Z roster of concepts, production previews and electrified powertrains. Both events signal a decisive shift toward electrification, performance-focused SUVs and nostalgic reinterpretations of classic models.
Readers of the magazine will find a blend of exclusive drives and technical deep-dives. The cover story follows the new Haval H7 HEV examined on Cape Town streets just weeks before its South African launch. The midsize-SUV targets a crowded lifestyle segment and promises a hybrid system that could challenge established rivals. In the “Drives” section, the team also tackled the BMW iX3 50 xDrive the 4×4-equipped Isuzu MU-X 1.9TD LS a sport-tuned Hyundai Creta N Line and an updated Hyundai Staria Executive.
Inside CAR magazine’s November 2026 issue
The feature article spotlights the Jaguar Type 01 described as a radical turning point for the brand’s future aspirations. The writer breaks down the concept’s design language, powertrain choices and how it fits into Jaguar’s long-term electrification roadmap. In the “Road Tests” column, five vehicles endure the magazine’s exacting standards. Highlights include the first test of the Mazda CX-5 2.5 Homura the stylish Volkswagen T-Roc 1.4 TSI R-Line a rugged JMC Grand Avenue 2.5TD 4×4 the refreshed Renault Duster 1.3T Iconic Launch Edition and the record-setting Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT which set a new acceleration benchmark for SUVs in CAR’s testing history.
The “Insight” segment delivers news on upcoming South African arrivals such as the Mitsubishi Pajero the eco-focused Volkswagen Mission Efficiency the Renault Niagara double-cab bakkie a bespoke Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung and the revived Audi A2 e-Tron. Meanwhile, the “Consumer” page traces the evolution of turbocharging from its early motorsport roots to its pervasive role in modern road cars, illustrating how racing technology has filtered into everyday performance.
Paris Motor Show 2026: A-Z of new launches
Over 100 exhibitors, including at least 60 manufacturers, filled five halls at the Expo Porte de Versailles. Stellantis made a loud statement with a parade of concepts, while the show placed a strong emphasis on compact cars and retro styling cues. Among the most talked-about reveals:
Alfa Romeo Cuorerosso
The four-door, four-seat sport-car concept, named “Red Heart”, serves as a design manifesto for Alfa Romeo’s electrified future. Although not a production model, its sleek silhouette and “necessary beauty” philosophy hint at the brand’s next design language.
Alpine A310 Vision
Alpine revisited its 1970s two-door GT with a futuristic, wedge-shaped reinterpretation that blends heritage with modern aerodynamics. The concept showcases a potential pathway to a limited-run electric GT.
Audi A2 e-Tron
A modern electric family hatchback built on the VW ID.3 platform, the A2 e-Tron resurrects an iconic name with a focus on efficiency and urban practicality.
Citroën 2 CV EV
Celebrating the original’s legacy, the new electric 2 CV adopts a minimalist interior, a sub-£15 k price tag and the classic silhouette that made the model a cultural touchstone.
Peugeot E-T16 Concept
Marking the 40th anniversary of the rally-winning 205 T16, this electric hyper-hatch delivers 816 hp, a 0-62 mph time of 2.5 seconds and a torque-vectoring system that distributes power across all wheels. It positions Peugeot as a serious contender in the high-performance EV segment.
Other notable introductions include BYD’s seven-seat Atto 8 SUV, the Denza Z electric supercar (1300 bhp+), Hyundai’s fifth-generation Tucson with an N-Line variant, and Geely’s Monjaro EM-i hybrid SUV aimed at the European market.
Record-breaking tests and future powertrains
The November issue of CAR magazine also highlighted a broader industry trend toward hybrid and fully electric powertrains. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT smashed previous acceleration records, underscoring the potential of high-output internal-combustion hybrids. Meanwhile, the magazine’s consumer piece on turbocharging illustrated how the technology, once exclusive to motorsport, now powers a wide range of gasoline and diesel engines, improving efficiency without sacrificing performance.
Across both platforms, one theme emerges clearly: manufacturers are betting on electrification, performance, and nostalgic reinterpretations to capture buyer attention. Whether it’s a sleek concept like Alfa Romeo’s Cuorerosso, a practical electric 2 CV, or a record-setting SUV, 2026 appears to be a turning point where heritage meets high-tech, and the road ahead promises a blend of speed, sustainability and style.
