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Forza Horizon 6 Confirmed for 2026 and Japan Setting
Andrew Evans
September 25, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
BMW to overhaul entire range with Neue Klasse tech
Ford Racing sets up UK base for hypercar program
Major Gran Turismo 7 update announced for December
Massa seeking $82m as Crashgate case approaches
Polestar planning new high-performance models
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
BMW plans to implement its Neue Klasse technology and design across its entire lineup, significantly enhancing models through comprehensive updates over the next few years. The iX3 will debut this new approach, featuring advanced computing capabilities and an innovative infotainment system, with over 40 refreshed or new models set to be introduced shortly.
Polestar plans to introduce a new concept vehicle alongside additional high-performance 'Beast' models ahead of the launch of the Polestar 7 SUV, reflecting the design vision of its new head, Philipp Romers. Despite the brand facing financial challenges, Romers, who previously contributed to the Audi e-tron GT, is focused on gradually evolving the brand's identity while capitalizing on its existing design strengths.
Peugeot is preparing to unveil its Polygon concept car, which will highlight the brand's vision for future small vehicles, incorporating advanced technology and design elements. This model marks the beginning of a refresh for the aging 208 hatchback and 2008 SUV, featuring the innovative Hypersquare steering system that enhances driver interaction through a digital interface.
Audi is set to introduce its largest SUV, the Q9, in 2026, marking its entry into the full-size segment to compete with established models like the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS. Alongside the Q9, a refreshed Q7 will also debut, both built on a shared platform designed to accommodate various powertrains, as Audi and Porsche adapt their strategies to include a mix of combustion and hybrid options amid evolving market demands.
A recent video from a Chinese automotive safety exhibition has gone viral due to its unusual demonstration of an SUV ejecting its large EV battery, reminiscent of a gadget from a spy film. While the intention appears to be addressing fire hazards, the concept of launching a burning battery raises significant safety concerns, prompting widespread skepticism online.
Koenigsegg is contemplating the possibility of introducing more affordable sports cars, although significant changes in production processes would be necessary to achieve this goal. While the founder acknowledges the allure of lighter, less expensive models, any future offerings would likely still carry a price tag in the hundreds of thousands, rather than competing with mainstream options.
Acura has ceased production of the ZDX, its only electric SUV available in the US, as confirmed by a company representative, coinciding with the impending expiration of the federal EV tax credit. Despite this setback, Acura is preparing to introduce the RSX, a new electric crossover, which is expected to begin production in Ohio in late 2026.
Smart has announced plans for a new generation of vehicles, including the #2 city car and the #4 four-door model, both set to launch after 2026. The #4 aims to bring back the essence of the previous ForFour with a more functional four-seat design, built on a platform developed in collaboration with Mercedes and Geely.
Volvo is addressing past software issues with the 2026 EX90, which features a new 800V electric system for improved charging efficiency and enhanced performance. Alongside significant technological upgrades, the latest model introduces various safety and convenience features, aiming to restore consumer confidence after a challenging launch.
When considering a vehicle purchase, potential buyers often prioritize features like warranty length and cargo space, but safety ratings from Euro NCAP are crucial yet frequently overlooked. This organization has been conducting rigorous crash tests for nearly three decades, yet many consumers remain unaware of its significance in assessing vehicle safety.
MOTORSPORT
Ford is establishing a dedicated racing team in the UK to manage its Hypercar initiative in the World Endurance Championship, set to launch in 2027. This program, developed in collaboration with ORECA, will be entirely overseen by Ford Racing, allowing for a more agile approach to competition and the integration of advanced technologies into its consumer vehicles.
Felipe Massa is pursuing damages of up to $82 million in a lawsuit related to the 2008 'Crashgate' incident, which involved Renault's deliberate crash during the Singapore Grand Prix. His court appearance in London is scheduled for October 28, where he aims to hold accountable those who failed to act on the scandal, following recent admissions from Bernie Ecclestone regarding the knowledge of the misconduct at the time.
Max Verstappen is set to make his debut in GT3 racing this weekend at the Nurburgring Endurance Series, where he will compete alongside Chris Lulham in a Ferrari 296 during a four-hour event. This follows Verstappen's recent participation in a Porsche Cayman GT4, which allowed him to secure a special license to race in GT3 events at the challenging Nordschleife circuit.
The FIA's financial regulations director has detailed the adjustments made to the Formula 1 cost cap, which will rise to $215 million in 2026 to accommodate inflation and new regulations. While the increase may seem significant, it primarily reflects the incorporation of existing expenses rather than an actual rise in spending for the teams.
James Vowles, the principal of Williams, disclosed that he and Carlos Sainz had a significant discussion during media day prior to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which he considered a pivotal moment. Following their dinner in Baku, Sainz excelled in both qualifying and the race, achieving his first points since Canada and marking a potential turning point in his challenging season.
Ian James, previously at the helm of Mercedes and McLaren's Formula E operations, has been appointed as the new team principal for Jaguar, succeeding James Barclay, who departed to lead McLaren's endurance program. As he steps into his role on October 1, James faces the challenge of enhancing Jaguar's competitiveness in the upcoming Gen4 era while also overseeing key personnel changes and the brand's debut in the Dakar rally.
Martin Brundle, a former Formula 1 driver, is set to make a surprising return to competitive racing this weekend at the Spa Six Hours, marking his first event in three years. He will team up with his son, Alex, and Gary Pearson to drive a Ford GT40 in a race featuring vintage cars from before 1966, while expressing excitement about the unique opportunity to race alongside his son again.
Ryo Hirakawa of Toyota has noted that the team's recent disappointing performances in Sao Paulo and at the Circuit of The Americas have intensified its determination as it prepares for its home race at Fuji in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Despite acknowledging the challenges faced, including difficulties in wet conditions, the team is optimistic that Fuji's layout will better suit their GR010 Hybrid, allowing it to capitalize on its strengths and improve its standings.
Romain Grosjean is set to return to the Formula 1 scene by driving Haas' 2023 car at Mugello, marking his first experience in F1 since his serious accident during the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix. This test, which reunites him with his former team and race engineer, holds special significance as he aims to contribute to the development of the VF-23 while reconnecting with familiar faces from his past in the sport.
Starting in the 2025 season, Formula 3 will implement a €1 million prize fund aimed at assisting the top five championship finishers in advancing to Formula 2. The distribution of funds will reward the champion with €300,000, while subsequent placements will receive decreasing amounts, contingent upon their progression to F2 the following year.
CURIOSITIES
The highly anticipated Forza Horizon 6 is set to launch in 2026, with its action taking place in Japan, and a PlayStation 5 version set to come later. An early glimpse of the game was inadvertently shared on social media before its official announcement at the Tokyo Games Show, revealing Japanese imagery and confirming the title and setting.
During the recent PlayStation State of Play, Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi revealed a significant update for Gran Turismo 7, titled "Spec III", set to launch in December 2025. The update will introduce two real-world Formula 1 circuits, the Yas Marina Circuit and Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, along with eight new cars, a Data Logger function, and enhancements to existing gameplay features.
Polyphony Digital has announced that the Gran Turismo series has surpassed 100 million copies sold globally as of June 25, 2025, marking a significant increase in sales momentum since the last update in December 2022. Series creator Kazunori Yamauchi expressed gratitude to the automotive industry, Sony, retailers, and players for contributing to this milestone, highlighting the franchise's remarkable journey over nearly three decades.
Dean Bruce was apprehended after a high-speed chase with police that spanned 33 miles and reached speeds of 130mph, all while he recorded the incident on his helmet camera. Following his arrest for operating a motorcycle without a valid license, insurance, or proper registration, he received a sentence of 15 months in prison along with a 31-month suspension of his driving privileges.
The 1986 Gran Fury, which gained recognition for its role in the TV series 'Gotham' as the vehicle of Commissioner James Gordon, is set to be auctioned at Mecum's event in Dallas later this month. Accompanied by a letter of authenticity and various props from the show, this modified sedan stands out among typical auction offerings, despite its mechanical specifications remaining unchanged from its original production.
In an unusual turn of events, a 12-year old boy took his parents' truck for a drive to his former school, where he caused damage by running over several traffic cones. After deputies attempted to intervene, the boy evaded them, leading to a brief pursuit reminiscent of video game antics and inevitably ending in a crash.
As global diplomats gather in New York for the United Nations General Assembly, their vehicles enjoy unrestricted access due to diplomatic immunity, a privilege not shared by embassies in London, which collectively owe significant congestion fees. Despite the exemption from local taxes under the Vienna Convention, Transport for London argues that these charges are service fees, leaving many embassies in arrears.
The Kia Challenge emerged three years ago after a TikTok video revealed a security flaw in certain Kia and Hyundai models, enabling thieves to start vehicles with minimal tools. Despite the availability of anti-theft software updates, many owners have not taken action, allowing thefts to persist, particularly in areas where visible security measures are lacking.
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