SEAT

SEAT Toledo: the model that elegantly and rationally transformed SEAT in Europe

In the late 1990s, SEAT was experiencing one of the most important periods in its modern history. Already fully integrated into the Volkswagen Group, the Spanish manufacturer was leaving behind its old regional brand image and beginning to build a younger, sportier, and more European identity. And few models symbolized this transformation better than the elegant and rational 1998 SEAT Toledo.

At that time, the Toledo occupied a strategic position within the Spanish brand's lineup. It was the mid-size sedan that needed to balance sophistication, family practicality, and a certain Latin sportiness capable of differentiating it from its German relatives within the Volkswagen Group. More than just a family car, the Toledo helped show that SEAT could produce modern, well-built, and emotionally appealing automobiles.

The second generation of the Toledo, originally launched in 1998, represented a huge leap compared to the previous model. Developed on the Volkswagen Group's PQ34 platform – the same one used by models like the Volkswagen Golf and the Audi A3 – the Spanish sedan had an extremely modern technical base for its time.

Visually, the 1998 Toledo had a clean, solid, and well-balanced design. The style clearly followed the Volkswagen Group's design language at the end of the decade, but with its own personality. The front featured large, angular headlights integrated into a discreet grille, while the profile presented smooth lines and classic European sedan proportions.

It wasn't an extravagant or excessively daring car. On the contrary: its design relied on elegant sobriety with small sporty touches typical of SEAT during that period. The clean surfaces and good integration between the cabin and trunk gave the car a modern and coherent appearance, something important at a time when the brand was seeking greater international credibility.

The high and robust rear reinforced a sense of solidity, while the wide horizontal taillights contributed to a visually wider appearance. In many respects, the Toledo seemed like a more emotional Spanish interpretation of the rational German engineering of the VAG Group.

The interior reflected this combination perfectly. Build quality had evolved enormously compared to older SEAT models, thanks to technological sharing with Volkswagen. The dashboard featured highly efficient ergonomics, solid controls, and a finish far superior to what was traditionally expected from the Spanish manufacturer at the time.

Although the materials didn't yet reach the refinement of a contemporary Audi, the Toledo conveyed robustness and modernity. The seats were comfortable, the interior space quite competent for the category, and the generous trunk made the car especially attractive to European families.

But perhaps the most interesting aspect of the Toledo was its handling. Unlike many excessively neutral mid-size sedans of the time, the SEAT had a slightly more agile and communicative behavior. The suspension and steering calibration aimed to offer a more dynamic experience without compromising everyday comfort.

Second generation 1998...The second generation Toledo (Typ 1M) was introduced in 1998 and debuted at the 1998 Paris Motor Show as a four-door notchback sedan. Sales began in October 1998. It went on sale there in March 1999.

It was more rounded than the shape of the previous first generation and had a much more fluid design, although both were products of Giorgetto Giugiaro's Italdesign studio, with the latter generation being influenced by SEAT's head of exterior design, Steve Lewis.

It shared components with its Volkswagen and Škoda PQ34 platform mates, the Volkswagen Bora and the Škoda Octavia, being positioned as the sportiest of the three. Inside, the dashboard was derived from that of the first generation Audi A3.

It was built on the Volkswagen Golf Mk4 platform, which meant stiff springs to support the load of the large 500-liter trunk, increased to 830 liters when the rear seats were folded down.

The first models were produced at the Volkswagen/Audi factory in Belgium, with improved production quality (compared to the previous generation produced in Spain), although the Toledo was still presented as an economical alternative at the lower end of the D segment and included a high level of equipment in its base price.

One of the features most associated with the Spanish model, the rear hatch was removed in favor of a more traditional four-door sedan trunk opening. The following year, the Toledo would be used as the basis for a proper hatchback, the SEAT León Mark 1.

The mechanical range was extensive and quite competent. The model could be equipped with quite modern 4-cylinder gasoline engines, including 1.6, 1.8 versions and the well-known 1.8 Turbo 20-valve engine – a powerplant that would eventually become almost legendary within the VW Group for its enormous performance and tuning potential.

The TDI turbodiesel versions also played a key role, especially in the European market. Economical, robust and with excellent torque, the diesel engines helped the Toledo win over many consumers seeking low fuel consumption combined with good long-distance capability.

The base model now used a 1.6-liter, 100 hp crossflow gasoline engine, followed by a 1.8-liter, twenty-valve unit with 125 hp, while the top-of-the-line model was represented by the 2.3-liter, 150 hp VR5 engine (V5).

The diesel versions used the 1.9 Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) engine, with a variable geometry turbocharger, initially offered with power outputs of 90 PS or 110 PS. In 2001, the V5 engine was updated with a 20-valve (four valves per cylinder) head, increasing power to 170 PS.

Later in the series, the 1.8-liter, twenty-valve Toledo received a turbocharger, capable of delivering 180 hp, and a further evolution of the VW TDI engine produced 130 hp and 150 hp engines.

All three versions featured a six-speed manual transmission. The 130 hp TDI also featured white gauges instead of the standard black gauges on the 110 and 150 hp TDI models. Production of the Typ 1M Toledo ended in July 2004.

At the top of the line, some sportier versions brought the Spanish sedan closer to a compact grand tourer proposition, especially when equipped with turbo engines and more sophisticated trim.

The 1998 Toledo may not have been revolutionary, but it was extremely important in consolidating SEAT's new image. It helped prove that the Spanish manufacturer could go beyond cheap cars and produce genuinely competitive cars within the demanding European market.

Furthermore, the model marked a very specific moment in the European automotive industry: a time when several traditional brands were being profoundly modernized through large industrial groups, but still managed to preserve relatively distinct identities.

Today, the Toledo of that generation is remembered fondly by many European enthusiasts. Not only for the mechanical reliability inherited from Volkswagen engineering, but also because it represented a more accessible and emotional alternative to the traditional German sedans of the time.

Interestingly, the name ‘Toledo’ refers to the historic Spanish city of Toledo, famous for its medieval heritage and for producing high-quality swords for centuries. An interesting symbolic choice for a car that sought to combine Spanish tradition and modern technical precision.

Autonews

WRC

Rally Japan 2026 - Elfyn Evans and Toyota winners

Welshman Elfyn Evans (Toyota GR Yaris Rally1) won Rally Japan 2026, the seventh round of the FIA ​​World Rally Championship (WRC), which ended today.

The Welshman led from Friday morning’s second stage and never surrendered control, eventually beating defending event winner Sébastien Ogier by 12.8sec after 20 demanding asphalt stages in Aichi and Gifu.

Sami Pajari completed the podium, 51.4sec from the lead, with home hero Takamoto Katsuta fourth as Toyota locked out the top four places on home soil.

Evans’ win was his second of the season and also marked his 50th career WRC podium. It moves him to 151 points in the drivers’ championship, 20 clear of Katsuta after seven of the season’s 14 rounds.

“What a great weekend,” said Evans. “I have to say a huge thanks to the team, amazing car again on Tarmac, and thank you to Morizo-san for all your support. Hopefully, this win is a token of appreciation.

“There’s a long way to go in the championship yet. It’s too early to really talk about [the title], but we have to just enjoy this win.”

Evans built the foundation for victory on Friday morning, when a decisive run through Isegami’s Tunnel moved him into the lead. From there, he managed changing grip, rising temperatures and sustained pressure from his team-mates across the final asphalt rally of the season.

Oliver Solberg had been Evans’ closest challenger on Saturday morning, reducing the gap to 10.6sec before crashing out of the victory fight on the afternoon’s opening Mt. Kasagi stage.

That promoted Ogier to second and left Evans to control the gap to the nine-time world champion. Ogier continued to push through Sunday, trimming the margin to 13.3sec ahead of the rally-ending Wolf Power Stage, but Evans had enough in hand to secure a record third FORUM8 Rally Japan win.

Ogier admitted the rally had not delivered the fight he wanted, his challenge effectively shaped by time lost in Friday’s first pass of Isegami’s Tunnel.

“I know the reason, but that’s the way it is,” Ogier said. “Didn’t manage it this weekend. Not a bad rally either. The gap to Elfyn was made in one stage with the road position. The rest was, even with the struggle, not far away.”

Pajari rounded out the podium after a strong second half of the rally. The Finn claimed several stage wins across Saturday and Sunday and secured his fifth podium from seven WRC starts this season.

“The feeling is good and it is nice to get back on the podium,” Pajari said. “It was shame we lost that one in Portugal as it would have been a good streak. It is a big shame that it is the last rally for these [Rally1] cars on Tarmac.”

Evans won five of the twenty special stages, showing consistency, which has once again proven to be a key point of success in rallying. On the winding mountain roads of Japan, the Elfyn Evans - Martin Scott crew achieved an average speed of 92.2 km/h.

The rally was led by Oliver Solberg (Toyota GR Yaris Rally1), then Evans took the lead on the second special stage and selfishly kept it until the end of the competition. Solberg showed great potential, "breathing on Evans' neck", but unfortunately only until the tenth special stage, where he made a mistake and damaged his car. As a consolation, Solberg was the fastest competitor in the Super Sunday competition, as well as in the final Power Stage special stage. The Swede scored 10 points, but in the end had to settle for 21st place, almost 50 minutes behind Evans.

However, even after Solberg's crash, Evans did not have an easy job until the end. On the final day of the competition, the Welshman entered with a 17.8-second lead over Sebastien Ogier (Toyota GR Yaris Rally1). In the end, Evans celebrated with a 12.8-second lead over Ogier, and the third place of Sami Pajari (Toyota GR Yaris Rally1) speaks of Toyota's top potential.

The fastest competitor of the Hyundai factory team was Adrien Fourmaux (Hyundai i20 N Rally1), who recorded 4th place, 38.8 seconds ahead of his teammate Thierry Neuville (Hyundai i20 N Rally1). Next were Hayden Paddon (Hyundai i20 N Rally1) and Jon Armstrong (Ford Puma Rally1).

The fastest competitor in the WRC2 competition was Nikolay Gryazin in a Rally 2 specification car - the Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale.

Rally Japan 2026 - Objective:

1. Evans/Martin Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 3:17:08.0

2. Ogier/Landais Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 +12.8

3. Pajari/Salminen Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 +51.4

4. Katsuta/Johnston Toyota GR Yaris Rally1 +1:03.5

5. Fourmaux/Coria Hyundai i20 N Rally1 +2:34.8

6. Neuville/Wydaeghe Hyundai i20 N Rally1 +3:13.6

7. Paddon/Kennard Hyundai i20 N Rally1 +4:44.8

8. Armstrong/Byrne Ford Puma Rally1 +5:45.2

9. Gryazin N. - Aleksandrov K. Lancia Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale +9:21.3

10. McErlean Josh - Treacy Eoin Ford Puma Rally1 +9:23.0

Autonews

 

TECH

Electric car for 94 euros per month in France

France has relaunched a program that allows citizens with lower incomes to drive a new electric car for just 94 euros per month.

It is a so-called "social leasing" program that is financially supported by the state, and in which domestic manufacturers such as Stellantis and Renault participate.

According to the terms for 2026, the French government will make more than 10 different models available to buyers, and some of them, such as the Citroen e-C3, will be able to drive for less than 100 euros per month, starting with a monthly installment of 94 euros. Stellantis has also confirmed that it will implement solutions for extension or redemption at the end of the contract with this program launched by the French government, but it is also launching a new program for access to used electric vehicles.

France has already brought more than 100,000 new electric vehicles to the roads through the first two phases of this project. In addition to reducing emissions, the goal is to rejuvenate the vehicle fleet, increase road safety, and reduce the cost of using a car for citizens.

The program aims to provide lower-income families with access to new electric vehicles with very affordable monthly payments.

The French example shows that an electric car does not necessarily have to be a luxury reserved for the wealthiest buyers. With government support and favorable monthly payments, new cars can become available to a much wider range of citizens.

You can get an electric car for €94 per month in France through the government's "Leasing Social" (Social Leasing) program, which allows low-income households to lease brand-new electric vehicles with no upfront down payment.

The €94/Month OfferThe specific Opel Corsa-e is available for as low as €94 per month under this scheme. Other highly affordable models include the Citroën ë-C3 (from €54/month) and the Fiat Grande Panda Electric (from €95/month).

To qualify for this ultra-low monthly rate, you must meet the following conditions:

Income limit: Your taxable reference income per tax share (Revenu Fiscal de Référence par part) must be €16,300 or less.

Employment status: You must be working or a student, and live more than 15 km from your workplace OR drive more than 8,000 km per year for professional purposes.

Contract terms: The lease is a long-term rental (Location Longue Durée or LLD) running for a minimum of 3 years, typically covering at least 12,000 km per year.

How to apply...Applications and reservations are managed through certified car dealerships and government-approved rental companies. You can find detailed program rules, participating dealerships, and book your car directly on the Official French Public Service Platform or the Beev Electric Vehicle Guide.

If you want, I can help you:

-Compare this model with the Citroën ë-C3 or Fiat Grande Panda

-Explain how the Ecological Bonus works if you decide to purchase outright instead

mundophone

MOTO GP

Bezzecchi hits the target in Mugello, confirming Aprilia's strength

Marco Bezzecchi was the big winner of the Italian GP, ​​held this Sunday (31). The Italian rider won the stage in Mugello for the first time, achieving the feat in a race marked by competitiveness. Jorge Martín and Pecco Bagnaia complete the podium.

The Italian started from pole position, in a front row full of Aprilia bikes. Raúl Fernández, winner of the Sprint, started second, with Martín in third. Brazilian Diogo Moreira started the race in 8th position after having achieved, for the first time this season, a direct qualification from Q2.

Marco Bezzecchi confirmed Aprilia's strength and won the MotoGP Italian GP this Sunday (31). In front of more than 88,000 fans in Mugello, the Italian rider overcame Francesco Bagnaia in a home duel and achieved another victory in the 2026 season and his first at the Italian circuit.

Marco Bezzecchi delighted the Italian fans this Sunday by winning the MotoGP Italian Grand Prix at Mugello. Besides securing another important victory this season, the Aprilia rider extended his lead in the championship by leading a one-two finish for the Noale manufacturer.

Jorge Martin completed Aprilia's excellent performance by crossing the finish line in second place. Meanwhile, Francesco Bagnaia secured the last place on the podium in front of the Ducati fans, although he had to withstand strong pressure in the final laps.

The race started very differently from the Sprint. After facing difficulties on Saturday and finishing only in seventh place, Bagnaia reacted in the main race and took the lead on the second of the 23 laps.

Before that, the Italian overtook Bezzecchi and began to control the pace of the race. For much of the first half of the race, the two opened up a gap over Martin, who followed the pair closely behind.

However, the scenario began to change as tire wear began to influence the riders' performance. From the halfway point of the race, the Aprilia bikes gained competitiveness and began to reduce the gap to the leader.

As a result, Bezzecchi regained first position with ten laps to go. Shortly after, Martin repeated the same overtaking maneuver on Bagnaia at turn 1 and took second place.

In this way, Aprilia consolidated a one-two finish that proved impossible to challenge until the checkered flag.

Marquez loses positions at the end and Fernandez reacts...Further back, Marc Marquez delivered a very combative race in his return to GPs. For much of the race, the Spaniard withstood the pressure exerted by Pedro Acosta and Fermin Aldeguer.

Later, Ai Ogura and Fabio Di Giannantonio also joined the chasing group. Despite still dealing with physical limitations after shoulder surgery, Marquez managed to defend for several laps.

However, the physical exhaustion and the intensity of the race took their toll in the final stretch. As a result, the Spaniard ended up losing positions and finished only in seventh place.

On the other hand, Raul Fernandez had an impressive recovery. The Sprint winner went off at turn 1 right at the start of the race and plummeted to 17th place.

Even so, the Trackhouse rider showed a very strong pace throughout the race. Lap after lap, he recovered ground until securing eighth position at the checkered flag.

Jorge Martín was the only one able to keep up with the Italians, leaving Bagnaia behind and securing second place in the race with ease, completing the Noale one-two finish. Bagnaia, Ai Ogura, Fabio Di Giannantonio, Pedro Acosta, Marc Márquez, Raúl Fernández, Fermín Aldeguer and Diogo Moreira completed the top 10.

Crutchlow returns and retires in Mugello...Another highlight of the weekend was the return of Cal Crutchlow. The Briton competed in his first GP since 2023, replacing LCR Honda.

However, his participation ended earlier than expected. Halfway through the scheduled 23 laps, Crutchlow brought his bike back to the pits and abandoned the race.

In addition to him, Enea Bastianini and Alex Rins also did not finish the race in Mugello.

The Brazilian had another consistent weekend in MotoGP. Starting for the first time among the top ten on the grid, he started from eighth position and overtook Joan Mir and Brad Binder in the final laps to finish in 10th place and score valuable points for the remainder of the World Championship.

MotoGP returns to action between June 5th and 7th, at Balaton Park, for the Hungarian GP, ​​the eighth round of the 2026 season.

The weather cooperated for Sunday's MotoGP race at Mugello. Under clear skies all day, the main race was held with an ambient temperature of 28°C and asphalt at 48°C. Winds were blowing at 8 km/h, while the relative humidity hovered around 47%.

The grid had two important absences. Álex Márquez and Johann Zarco were out of the Italian GP after the heavy accidents they suffered in Catalonia. Their replacements were Michele Pirro and Cal Crutchlow, respectively.

On the other hand, Marc Márquez returned to the grid after recovering from the accident he suffered in Le Mans. For the 23 laps of the race in Mugello, the 22 drivers in the premier class opted for medium tires on both the front and rear.

Pole-sitter Bezzecchi had a good start, but was overtaken by Martín under braking at turn 1. The Italian, however, retaliated on the first lap to regain the lead. Bagnaia was in third place, followed by Marc Márquez and Aldeguer, completing the top five in the initial laps.

On the second lap, Martín made a mistake under braking at San Donato and lost second position to Bagnaia. The two-time world champion then began to pressure Bezzecchi in the fight for the lead and managed to take first place at the beginning of the third lap at Mugello.

Further back, Marc Márquez was pressured by Acosta in the fight for fourth place. Moreira, meanwhile, entered into a duel with Bastianini, lost eighth place and dropped to ninth, but maintained a competitive pace to remain within the provisional top 10.

Bagnaia held the lead for the first ten laps, but began to face increasing pressure from Bezzecchi. The Aprilia rider seemed to be managing his equipment, waiting for the ideal moment to attack #63 in the final stretch of the race. Behind them, Martín, Marc Márquez and Acosta completed the top five.

Moreira also began to lose pace with the LCR RC213V and dropped from ninth to 12th place, losing positions to Brad Binder, Bastianini and Di Giannantonio. Shortly after, the Brazilian moved up to 11th after Bastianini lost control of the RC16 and ended up in the gravel at turn 10.

Bezzecchi's attack came on lap 14. With a clearly superior pace, the Aprilia rider went inside at San Donato and overtook Bagnaia without much difficulty, taking the lead of the race. From there, #72 opened up a lead at the front and secured another victory in MotoGP 2026.

In the final stretch of the race, Martín still used the power of the RS-GP to catch Bagnaia, leave the Ducati rider behind and complete the Aprilia one-two in another race of the 2026 MotoGP season.

Marc Márquez and Acosta engaged in an intense duel for fourth place for much of the race, but the KTM rider ultimately prevailed. Still recovering physically from his accident at Le Mans, #93 lost pace in the final laps and was eventually overtaken by Ogura and Di Giannantonio, finishing the race in seventh place.

However, in the final stretch, Ogura and Di Giannantonio found the pace to leave Acosta behind. The Japanese rider crossed the finish line in fourth, while the Italian from VR46 completed the top five in front of his home crowd.

by Autonews

AUTONEWS

Fiat Toro (2027): The first mild-hybrid sub-pickup truck produced in Brazil

Innovative since its launch, the FIAT Toro revolutionized its segment by breaking paradigms, bringing the robustness and performance of a pickup truck with the comfort and technologies of an SUV, all combined with its disruptive design, building another chapter of innovation. From now on, in its 2027 line, the Toro becomes the first mild-hybrid pickup truck produced in Brazil by receiving the 48V MHEV engine in its range, further raising the standard of technology, efficiency and sophistication of the model.

The Stellantis 48V MHEV system debuts in the FIAT pickup truck range, equipping the Volcano and Ultra versions of the Toro, which feature the Turbo 270 Flex engine. The mild-hybrid technology combines a combustion engine with a low-voltage (48-volt) electrical system, reducing emissions and fuel consumption without sacrificing performance. The multifunctional electric motor intelligently assists the combustion engine, generating both mechanical force to improve fuel economy and regenerating electrical energy, working in conjunction with the vehicle's traditional electrical system. An electronic control manages the operation between driving modes, prioritizing efficiency and reducing consumption. In practice, the equipment optimizes fuel consumption, generating savings of up to 12%, in addition to reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 11%.

The new system also provides a more enjoyable driving experience by ensuring instant torque delivery. The new technology makes the vehicle more agile, acting directly on the acceleration curve and providing up to 65 Nm of electric torque, resulting in faster responses when pressing the accelerator.

Depending on the legislation in each state, hybrid models may benefit from tax advantages and circulation benefits, such as exemption or discount on IPVA (vehicle property tax) and exemption from the vehicle rotation restriction in the city of São Paulo. This technology also doesn't require plugging in, as the MHEV system uses a coasting-regen strategy, recovering energy smoothly during deceleration and harnessing kinetic energy to recharge the 48V battery.

In line with its technological proposition, the 2027 Toro now offers advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) as standard across all versions, enhancing safety and driving comfort. From now on, all versions of the model will be equipped with collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high beam switching, ensuring greater safety for vehicle occupants. The Ultra and Ranch versions will also have blind spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert as standard equipment, while the Volcano will offer these as optional extras.

The Toro's famous DRL signature, which switched to pixel-based design last year, gains even more prominence with the arrival of the sequential turn signal, a feature that enhances the optical assembly and reinforces the model's visual identity. The dynamic effect of the turn signals adds a touch of sophistication and, at the same time, improves the vehicle's visibility in traffic, bringing the pickup closer to the trends adopted in the premium segment.

It's worth highlighting that the Toro has undergone significant aesthetic and technological changes recently. In addition to the arrival of the 2.2 Turbodiesel engine, the model's design has been completely revamped, with a trapezoidal grille featuring precise geometric themes, intersected by straight, vertical lines. The headlight assembly is entirely full LED, positioned above the air intakes at the ends of the bumper, solutions that enhance the visual perception of width and reinforce the imposing front of the pickup. This effect is accentuated by the wider skid plate, which adds robustness to the overall design. All versions feature a 7-inch digital instrument panel and a 10-inch multimedia system starting with the Volcano trim. All versions are also equipped with a modern transmission and electronic parking brake that provides greater comfort and convenience to the driver, as well as auto hold.

Besides its robust design and advanced technology, the Toro is also a benchmark when it comes to performance. This segment-leading pickup offers three engine options: Turbo 270 Flex, Turbo 270 Flex MHEV, and 2.2 Turbodiesel.

With the acclaimed Turbo 270 Flex engine, now combined with MHEV technology (available in the Ultra and Volcano versions), it delivers 176 hp and 270 Nm of torque. The MultiJet 2.2 Turbodiesel engine, which makes the Toro more powerful and economical, equips the Ranch and Volcano Diesel versions, offering 200 hp and 450 Nm of torque.

Mopar Accessories...Mopar, the Stellantis brand of original parts and accessories, offers a complete catalog with over 90 items, all produced in Brazil, to enhance the versatility of FIAT pickup trucks.

For the Toro, the most robust pickup in its segment, the new product is the launch of a tow hitch. Developed especially for those seeking more versatility and functionality, the accessory is perfect for use with trailers, transporting motorcycles, jet skis, and other leisure activities.

In addition to the tow hitch, Mopar has 27 other accessories designed to transform the Toro into multiple options within a single vehicle, allowing it to assume different roles depending on who is behind the wheel. These include: tubular luggage rack, rear window safety bar, roof crossbar, cargo bed bag, child seat, cargo bed box, rain gutter, Toro bike cover, tonneau cover, hard tonneau cover, wireless charger, movable cargo bed divider, side step, cargo bed extender, fog lights, side molding, mud flaps, anti-theft wheel bolts, exhaust tip, Mopar flexible storage compartment, skid plate, cargo net, roll bar, front parking sensor, interior floor mat, cargo bed mat, and spare tire security lock.

AUTONEWS

Fiat Tipo Sedan 2026: The most affordable sedan in Europe for €17,829

While most automakers are abandoning classic sedans and focusing on more expensive SUV models, Fiat still offers one of the last affordable family sedans on the European market: the Tipo Sedan.

According to the current offer, the Fiat Tipo Sedan is available in the Czech Republic for a promotional price of €17,829.

On the other hand, the Italian sedan is available in Spain for €17,969, the Italians offer it for prices between €17,900 and €18,500 depending on dealerships and promotions, while the Slovaks sell it in a central warehouse for prices ranging between €18,800 and €19,100.

This currently places the Tipo among the cheapest new C-segment sedans in Europe. What is particularly interesting is that it doesn't have a gasoline engine. The offer is valid for limited stock and applies to the diesel version with a 1.6 Multijet 130 hp engine and a six-speed manual transmission.

Although not the most technologically advanced model in its class, the Tipo represents a rational purchase. Buyers take home a car that is 4.53 meters long, has a spacious 520-liter trunk, and a proven diesel engine with an average consumption of around 4.7 l/100 km.

The European market is suffering from the disappearance of models like the Dacia Logan, which has left Fiat with virtually no direct competition among inexpensive sedans in Europe. It is also interesting to note that the Fiat Tipo Sedan is produced in Turkey, where it is sold under the name Egea.

Many buyers highlight the car's cost-benefit ratio. Users say the Tipo is simple, proven, and inexpensive to maintain, and that the 1.6 diesel engine has proven to be very reliable over the years.

Considering the constant rise in new car prices and the announcement of the more stringent Euro 7 standard by the end of the year, this is probably the last straw for a classic model with an even more classic turbodiesel engine.

Are you looking for an affordable car with an economical and reliable diesel engine? The Fiat Tipo Sedan with the proven 1.6 MultiJet engine is the right choice, starting from 429,900 CZK (VAT included).

It offers 130 hp, a 6-speed manual transmission, and 320 Nm of torque, available from just 1,500 rpm. All this with an average consumption of just 4.6 l/100 km.

Basic equipment includes: air conditioning, radio with Bluetooth and DAB, rear parking sensors and camera, cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.

The Urban version, for an additional cost of just 20,000 CZK, includes: a 7" touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, automatic air conditioning, 16" wheels, and full LED headlights.

AUTONEWS

Mercedes GLC vs BMW iX3

BMW iX3...After years of trial and error, BMW designers finally got it right. The iX3 exudes distinction and modernity, but without intending to scare anyone. Clean, solid surfaces meet well-defined creases. It's different from all other crossovers and doesn't need strange proportions or elaborate lines to achieve that. There's a new face mask, but it's not Halloween.

As for the interior, there's a completely new dashboard and an iDrive system that debuts something unprecedented: not just a larger screen, but something called Panoramic iDrive – a narrow screen that extends across the entire base of the windshield, just above the dashboard. Spoiler alert: besides having a futuristic look, it actually works.

With sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, a range of up to 805 kilometers (500 miles), and a maximum charging rate of 400 kW, the new BMW iX3 sets new standards for efficiency and long-distance capability. A new electronics and software architecture, including four high-performance "superbrains" computers, makes the first model of the Neue Klasse smarter and better prepared for the future than ever before. The "Heart of Joy" driving dynamics management technology enables unparalleled driving dynamism and precision, while the latest automated driving systems optimize the symbiotic interaction between man and vehicle.

A key element of the digital user experience in the new #BMW iX3 is BMW Panoramic iDrive, which takes the intuitive operation and driver focus for which the brand is known to a new level. In addition, a comprehensive sustainability concept reduces the vehicle's carbon footprint by more than 30% over its life cycle compared to its predecessor.

The first model from the Neue Klasse will be produced at the newly built BMW Group plant in Debrecen, Hungary. The first variant of the all-electric SAV to roll off the production line, starting in the fall of 2025, will be the BMW iX3 50 xDrive (combined electric power consumption: 17.9 – 15.1 kWh/100 km; CO₂ class: A; range: 679 – 805 km; provisional figures according to the WLTP cycle), with a power output of 345 kW/469 hp and electric all-wheel drive.

The new BMW iX3 represents a leap in development compared to its namesake predecessor, going far beyond a simple model update. The advancements in design and technology create the impression that an entire generation of the vehicle has been skipped. For the BMW Group, the launch of the new BMW iX3 also represents a milestone in the transformation process in terms of electrification, digitalization, and circularity. Leading the arrival of the Neue Klasse (New Class), it offers customers the latest innovations in design and technology, which will shape the brand's entire model range going forward. Neue Klasse technologies will be incorporated into a total of 40 new models and model updates by 2027.

The new iX3 manages to eliminate many, or even all, of the inconveniences of modern electric vehicles. It doesn't feel heavy or unresponsive to drive. It charges super-fast and is efficient, needing to be charged less frequently than competitors. The control system is intuitive. The driver assistance features don't drive you crazy.

We've driven cars that make similar claims to the iX3. They left us unhappy, turning the human being into a mere subsystem within a clumsy machine with its own hyper-digitalized mind.

The Neue Klasse is not like that. It doesn't try to be different or shocking. It's like a BMW; only fabulously good. A significant leap, more intuitive, rewarding, precise and engaging (and yet relaxing) than other current BMW crossovers. It's refined and spacious when you need a family car. BMW design is entering a refined era that evokes, but doesn't imitate, its best past. Given that there will soon be a Neue Klasse car to play the role of established models like the 3 Series, all of this is extremely reassuring.

Mercedes GLC...With the same state-of-the-art architecture as the CLA, this electric SUV sports a familiar badge, but is completely new underneath. The GLC is Mercedes' golden goose and its best-selling model globally, and while you can still buy the petrol and diesel versions, the investment in research and development of this electric version is not without risk.

Mercedes claims it's an uncompromising electric vehicle, designed to offer the comfort of an S-Class, decent performance, and that "welcome home" feeling you'd get with a classic Mercedes. It promises a lot, therefore, and arrives at a time when Mercedes' long-time rival in Munich is also up to speed with its projects.

This is not just a simple conversion to electric – quite the opposite. While the previous GLC was a flexible platform design (which needed to accommodate diesel and petrol components, in addition to the batteries), this new GLC EV uses the MB.EA architecture, developed specifically for Mercedes. The result is a fundamentally different approach in terms of design, performance, and technology.

The GLC is the flagship of Mercedes' new proprietary operating system, MB.OS – a powerful AI-based brain that controls everything from driving to entertainment. Meanwhile, features such as the world-first 39.1-inch "Hyperscreen" interior, two-speed transmission, advanced shock absorbers, and a complete overhaul of energy management show that Mercedes is determined not to let BMW or Tesla monopolize the spotlight.

For launch, only the GLC 400 4Matic will be available, with other versions (including a rear-wheel-drive edition with greater range) arriving later. Power comes from two permanent magnet synchronous motors (one on each axle) with a combined output of 483 hp and 800 Nm of torque – enough to propel this 2.5-ton brute from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. The GLC uses a 94 kWh (usable) nickel-manganese-cobalt battery, with a projected range of up to 650 km (403 miles) according to the WLTP cycle in this dual-motor configuration. The range should approach 725 km (450 miles) when the single-motor version arrives on the market.

Thanks to the 800 V system, charging can reach up to 330 kW, if you find a sufficiently powerful charger – a 10% to 80% recharge takes about 22 minutes under ideal conditions. Mercedes also learned from the controversy generated by the launch of the CLA (in the UK, the car needs to be optionally equipped with a DC-DC inverter to work with the 400 V chargers more common in Great Britain), and the GLC already comes with the conversion kit as standard.

Other technical highlights: the GLC comes equipped with a two-speed gearbox, which offers the best of both worlds: good acceleration and greater efficiency at high speeds. Intelligently, the front engine can be decoupled (via a clutch) for greater efficiency at cruising speed. Four-wheel steering, air suspension, and adaptive dampers are standard on all versions except the base model, with driving control proactively adjusted based on data collected from other Mercedes and Google Maps. Welcome to the age of algorithms.

After the CLA, it seems Mercedes is in a great phase. The GLC EV is quiet, luxuriously equipped, and conveys a sense of maturity while driving, with interesting digital features and real-world range that, while not comparable to the best, is very close.

This isn't a reinvention like the BMW iX3, but a true transposition of the Mercedes brand to an electric vehicle. This is a car that prioritizes comfort, refinement, and serenity above all else – think of a relaxation capsule, not a car to break records at the Nürburgring.

Autonews