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Renault Clio's Sixth Generation Unveiled
Andrew Evans
September 09, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Max Verstappen to make GT racing debut
Meet Microsoft’s latest Xbox: your car
Polestar reveals new 5 GT, with up to 872hp
Ferrari chairman to perform community service
Peugeot Sport hails COTA result
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
The sixth-generation Renault Clio has made its debut at the Munich motor show, featuring a significant design overhaul that marks the most extensive changes to the model in over ten years. This iteration is larger than its predecessor, with enhancements aimed at accommodating advanced engine technologies and improving safety, while also incorporating modern design elements and updated infotainment systems.
Polestar has officially unveiled the long-awaited 5 GT in Munich, initiating orders in select markets and revealing key performance specifications for potential buyers. Available in two specifications, both employing a dual-motor, all-wheel drive setup, the 5 GT will be available from €119,000, with first deliveries expected in 2026.
Alongside revealing its new Epiq and Vision O concepts at the IAA Mobility Show, Skoda has been spotted testing an updated version of the Fabia supermini at the Nurburgring. Although the current Fabia lineup lacks a high-performance vRS model, Skoda's leadership has indicated that a special edition may be in the works to commemorate the brand's 130th anniversary.
Hyundai's Concept Three model likely previews a compact electric hatchback set to enter production next year, potentially named Ioniq 3. Designed to be manufactured in Europe, this innovative five-door model features an aerodynamic shape aimed at enhancing efficiency, aligning with the brand's distinctive design philosophy while appealing to a specific customer base in the competitive hatchback market.
The Cupra Tindaya concept represents a fresh approach to Cupra’s design philosophy, intended to highlight a deep connection between the driver and vehicle through innovative modes that enhance the driving experience. With impressive performance metrics and a focus on sustainable materials, this crossover aims to redefine the brand's identity while showcasing a striking aesthetic inspired by a volcano.
Renault is assessing the potential for new performance vehicles, with initial concepts expected to be revealed within the next year, according to the company's CEO. While there are no immediate plans for a high-performance version of the Clio, discussions are ongoing about balancing investment and market demand for future models.
The Austin Arrow, a revival of the historic British brand, has begun deliveries, with the all-electric roadster available in both right-hand and left-hand drive configurations. With a retro design reminiscent of the original Austin Seven, this lightweight vehicle features a modest electric motor and a range of 100 miles, and is actually classed as a quadricycle under UK regulations.
Following a controversial immigration raid on Hyundai's battery plant in Georgia, South Korean companies are reconsidering their investments in the US. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents raided the factory, which is still under construction, and detained 475 workers most of whom are South Korean nationals while claiming that their visas did not authorize them to work in the USA.
MOTORSPORT
After securing an unexpected win at the Italian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen is set to make his debut in GT racing at the Nurburgring Nordschleife this weekend. To gain the necessary qualifications for racing GT3 vehicles, he will first take a theory test, followed by a practical assessment that could involve driving a Porsche Cayman GT4 CS, with plans to then participate in the Nurburgring Langstrecken Series later in the year.
Peugeot Sport's technical director, Olivier Jansonnie, expressed satisfaction with the team's performance at the Circuit of the Americas, where its two cars secured third and fourth places. He attributed the success to a largely error-free race and the valuable insights gained from off-season testing, which proved beneficial in navigating the challenging conditions.
The McLaren Formula 1 team faces significant challenges as it navigates the complexities of managing its drivers, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, during a competitive season. Recent interventions, particularly at the Monza Grand Prix, have drawn scrutiny and raised questions about the team's approach to fairness and the potential for future conflicts as both drivers vie for the championship.
Aston Martin is conducting a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the suspension failure that forced Fernando Alonso to retire during the Italian Grand Prix. Following the incident, the team quickly sent the damaged components for analysis to expedite understanding, as initial inspections did not reveal any obvious issues.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has expressed confidence that Lewis Hamilton can secure his first podium finish with the team, following a promising performance at the Italian Grand Prix. Despite starting from 10th due to a grid penalty, Hamilton demonstrated competitive pace, finishing sixth, which has raised expectations for future races.
Liam Lawson discussed his recent encounter with Yuki Tsunoda during the Italian Grand Prix, where contact occurred as they battled for position after their pit stops. Despite the incident, Lawson acknowledged the situation was minor and expressed disappointment with his 14th-place finish, attributing the lack of points to a strategic gamble on soft tyres that did not pay off.
Guenther Steiner will join MotoGP as the new CEO of Tech3 in 2026, following the consortium Ikon Capital's recent acquisition of the team. Meanwhile, both Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton are exploring opportunities to purchase a MotoGP team, with Hamilton's longstanding interest in the sport and Verstappen's cautious inquiries into potential acquisitions.
Registration has commenced for the 2026 Meguiar’s Bathurst 12 Hour, set to take place from February 13-15, coinciding with the start of the Intercontinental GT Challenge season. Next year's event marks a decade since Bathurst became part of the global GT3 championship, with regulations largely mirroring those from the previous year, ensuring a familiar competitive landscape for participants.
CURIOSITIES
Ferrari chairman John Elkann and his siblings will collectively pay €183 million to settle inheritance tax disputes stemming from their grandmother's estate, with Elkann also agreeing to perform a year of community service. This agreement, pending judicial approval, aims to conclude a lengthy family conflict over inheritance rights to the estate of Marella Caracciolo, which is valued at approximately €800 million.
Microsoft has unveiled a new initiative that integrates Xbox gaming capabilities into vehicles, allowing users to enjoy their games while parked. This project, revealed at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich, leverages collaboration with LG via its Automotive Content Platform, enhancing entertainment options for car owners, with LG aiming to serve 20 million vehicles with this facility by 2030.
Last weekend, a Hyundai owner discovered her vehicle had been stolen again despite installing a steering wheel lock, which the thieves easily dismantled. Using her granddaughter's earpods, she tracked the car to an abandoned property, where police found it alongside two other stolen vehicles, highlighting ongoing concerns about theft vulnerabilities in certain Kia and Hyundai models.
A 1958 Bentley S1 Continental Drophead Coupe with a complex history is now available in Arizona, featuring connections to royalty, political upheaval, and a celebrated restoration. Originally delivered to the Crown Prince of Iraq, this rare vehicle has undergone significant refurbishment and has received accolades at prestigious automotive events since its restoration.
A BMW driver in Poland experienced a mishap while trying to launch a jet ski into the Vistula River, instead accidentally submerging their 7 Series. Rescuers managed to pull the BMW clear of the river, along with its trailer, and while the damage is unknown at present it’s actually the second such incident at the same marina in the past two months.
A recent high-speed pursuit involving an Arkansas State Police unit and a C5 Chevy Corvette has gained attention online, featuring dramatic dash cam footage of the vehicle navigating through oncoming traffic at speeds exceeding 120mph. The chase concluded with the Corvette crashing into a median, resulting in the driver's arrest and multiple charges, including felony fleeing and several traffic violations.
The UK’s Royal Automobile Club (RAC) is urging local councils to adopt proactive road maintenance strategies to prevent pothole formation, emphasizing the need for effective surface treatments rather than temporary fixes. Collaborating with the Road Surface Treatments Association, it highlights that many councils are neglecting essential maintenance practices, resulting in deteriorating road conditions across the UK.
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