Category: Car News

Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung: your dream performance car with the good star…

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Mercedes makes our hearts beat faster with a highly limited “Mythos Series” model, handcrafted in Affalterbach. A 646 hp (475 kW) AMG 4.0litre V8 biturbo engine and rear-wheel drive makes us smile…

Your eyes are spoiled with a unique wide-body, a newly developed coil over suspension and extensively engineered aerodynamics.

Weight reduction was also paramount: the car is not less than 170 kg lighter.

Just read further…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

The story began in Affalterbach…

The MercedesAMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung began with a simple question: How can a CLE be developed even further towards maximum driving dynamics? Yet this was not driven by a traditional product development brief, but by an idea born within the AMG engineering team.

A small group initially began by building a prototype. The goal was not a collection of individual performance upgrades or a conventional special edition. Instead, the vehicle was completely re-imagined as a complete performance system.   

AMG 4.0Litre V8 Biturbo Engine with 646 hp…

Let the star roar, we would say. At the heart of the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung stands the extensively enhanced AMG M177 EVO 4.0litre V8biturbo engine. Its output of 646 hp (475 kW) is reflected in the model designation itself. Maximum torque stands at 850 Nm and is available across a broad engine speed range from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm. The engine’s flat-plane crankshaft reduces rotating masses, improves revving characteristics and promotes exceptionally responsive throttle response, further supported by dedicated engine mapping. 

To ensure thermal stability even under extreme loads, the V8 engine features three separate cooling circuits: a high-temperature circuit for the engine itself, and two low-temperature circuits for charge-air and transmission-oil cooling as well as the 48volt components.

Of course there is a bespoke high-performance exhaust system featuring increased flow capacity and a sound signature engineered with a strong emotional focus.

Rear-Wheel Drive for this dramatic handling under power.

The AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system of the donor vehicle has been removed entirely, with the CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung transmitting its power exclusively to the rear axle. 

This completely changes the car’s dynamic character. An electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential optimizes torque distribution between the rear wheels through variable locking action as required. 

AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G Transmission for those lightning fast changes.

The standard AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission has been retained, and justly so, as it is absolutely superb.

The torque-converter transmission can execute multiple downshifts in rapid succession to access the engine’s full performance almost instantaneously. The transmission’s overall character can be tailored via AMG DYNAMIC SELECT, which offers a range of drive programs with specific drivetrain settings.

The Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 custom-made Launch Control system has also been specifically adapted to the rear-wheel-drive layout. The Mythos bolide accelerates from a standstill to 200 km/h in 11.4 seconds. Top speed is 310 km/h. Need we say more?

Precise handling and braking guaranteed …

The suspension has likewise been specifically optimized. It features a steel coil over suspension system jointly developed by Mercedes-AMG and KW automotive. The setup enables exceptionally precise tuning to suit driving style, circuit characteristics, individual preferences and intended use.

At the heart of the suspension is four-way adjustable damper technology with independently configurable low-speed and high-speed rebound and compression settings. This allows the chassis to be tailored precisely to a wide range of driving requirements. 

At the front axle, internally ventilated and perforated ceramic brake discs measuring 420 x 40 millimeters are paired with six-piston fixed calipers and long-fiber technology. At the rear axle, internally ventilated and perforated ceramic brake discs measuring 360 x 32 millimeters are combined with single-piston floating calipers. 

Much carbon-fiber paired with the wide-body design.

Numerous series-production components have been replaced by solutions specifically developed for demanding road and track use.

A key element of the concept is its significantly wider stance. To achieve this, the bodyshell has been reinforced and widened. The result is an additional 60 millimeters of vehicle width at both the front and rear. The wider track enhances stability, increases cornering potential and allows the use of exceptionally wide wheels and tyres. 

Carbon fiber is used for the widened front fenders with integrated air outlets, the redesigned front apron with large cooling air intakes, the side sill panels, the bonnet with central cold-air intake, the roof and the newly developed rear apron with diffuser.

The aerodynamics of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung have likewise been developed with driving dynamics as the primary objective. The front diffuser, fender louvers, underbody measures and rear wing form a fully integrated aerodynamic package.

A Limited Collector’s Car- aimed for the track.

For use on closed circuits with ESP switched off, AMG TRACTION CONTROL allows drivers to individually tailor the level of support provided when managing the engine’s considerable output, without ESP stability interventions. 

Specifically calibrated for the MercedesAMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung, AMG TRACTION CONTROL allows wheel slip at the driven rear axle to be preselected across nine stages. 

The interior of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung follows the same unwavering focus on lightweight construction and driving dynamics. The rear seats and acoustic insulation materials have been removed.

Ultra-lightweight high-end racing bucket seats with pronounced lateral support are fitted as standard, along with a roll-over bar that increases torsional rigidity and further enhances driving dynamics. 

The MercedesAMG CLE 646 Spezialanfertigung is the second model in the highly exclusive MercedesBenz Mythos Series, dedicated to exceptionally rare collector vehicles produced in strictly limited numbers.

Following the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed, limited to just 250 examples worldwide and featuring an open two-seat configuration without a roof or windscreen, the Mercedes-AMG CLE 646 “Spezialanfertigung” now joins the series as a road-legal vehicle limited to only 30 examples, with an uncompromising focus on racetrack performance. 

A formidable car, and just enjoy the accompanying photos!

Hans Knol ten Bensel

The Renault 5 E-Tech, already an EV bestseller, improves even more…

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The Renault 5 E-Tech electric range is even more attractive with greater efficiency, range and versatility right from entry-level, along with new colours and features.

Both the 40 kWh Urban Range and 52 kWh Comfort Range versions gain technical and aerodynamic upgrades to achieve new WLTP ranges of up to 315 and 430 km respectively.

Equipped with both an AC charger and a DC charger, a new version of the Five in entry-level trim is making its debut, with an 80 kW / 110 hp motor and a 36,5 kWh LFP battery for a WLTP range of up to 305 km.

Depending on the version, Renault 5 E-Tech electric will be available in new body colours, including Flame Red, a new Warm Titanium finish for the wheels, new wing and roof decals, and new upholstery color, as well as upgrades to onboard technology.

Sales hit…

Renault described the R5 as a major contributor to its EV growth, and one would expect it to finish in 2026 at around roughly 80-90,000 European registrations.

Industry experts say that based on estimated European sales figures this year until late summer, the R5 sells at roughly 3½ times the volume of the R4.

Remarkable, as we know that both cars run on the same Renault Ampere EV architecture. We find the R4 cute enough, and Renault launched for the summer an 4 E – Tech Plein Sud version, with an opening soft roof of class-beating dimensions. Almost one square metre in size, offering the widest opening on the market for an unparalleled feeling of traveling in the great outdoors.

We are keen to have a test spin of both cars soon…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Audi brings superb efficiency into the EV world with its A2 e-tron…

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Audi is working hard to carve its niche in the compact EV world with its latest A2 e-tron.

It brings memories of the absolutely genial A2, which was far ahead of its time and been mostly misunderstood.

The overall shape of the new EV is reminiscent of its iconic predecessor, and likewise also reaches new levels of efficiency: just 12.8 kWh/100 km and a range of up to 646 kilometers according to WLTP.

Not only the car is efficient, so is its production process. It is built in Audi’s home plant in Ingolstadt, and we will tell you soon more about its production process…

It has a drag coefficient of 0.24 – the best value in Audi’s compact segment. It has four power levels and three battery sizes, but bi-directional charging is unfortunately only an option. It is spacious on a compact footprint, moreover pleasant with a 1.6-square-meter panoramic glass roof.

It has standard the Audi assistant with artificial intelligence, e-tron route planner, standard MMI panoramic display with 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus and 12.8-inch MMI curved touch display.

It certainly looks splendid, its market launch is in December 2026, but as a premium brand, it doesn’t come cheap: prices in Germany are starting at 38,200 euros.

Needless to say that we are very keen to see the car “in the flesh” soon, and drive it for you early next year…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

We drove the new Subaru EV range: an ideal fit for Europe…

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We drove the new Subaru EV range – here you see the Solterra – on roads and terrain around the Château-Ferme de Moreinsart in Ottignies…

Subaru has now also joined the EV trend with its new range, the Uncharted, Solterra and E-Outback. Subaru, the high-tech company with an impressive sporting history and a tradition of absolute engineering excellence, develops its new EV’s in a 50-50 % in a team-building framework with Toyota.

We were welcomed by Subaru Benelux PR Manager Dick Braakhekke…

and Kobayashi Kota, Business Coordinator of Subaru Benelux…who explained the DNA of Subaru…

Of course, it conserves its proper DNA. Kobayashi Kota, Business Coordinator of Subaru Benelux, explains: where Toyota engineers concentrate on the engineering and development of the E-Axle, the traction and the advanced EV battery, and last but not least brings in the e-global platform, Subaru develops the AWD system and e-axle management, develops the (suspension) setup and drivability, and is also responsible for safety.
 

The stylish Uncharted was our first drive, and stole our hearts…

We could drive the three cars of Subaru’s new EV family on the winding roads around the Château-Ferme de Moreinsart in Ottignies. The castle also has a magnificent terrain in its surrounding woods, were we could experience the impressive AWD terrain qualities of the Subaru’s, a quality were the brand is (so) very famous for.

Indeed, the Subaru engineers have developed and honed this to perfection, and we found that the cars were totally easy to drive through terrain, and that even a total novice could steer the car safely over the most demanding off road tracks. Needless to say that we would like for you to put these cars through a more extended road and terrain test for you soon…

A well balanced range…

We start here with the Uncharted, the shortest of the three, with a total length of 4,535 meter. All the cars run on the same platform, but the Uncharted has a shorter wheelbase of 2,750 meter. It is also the lightest of the three, with 1,850 kg when you opt for the 2 WD ‘base’ version with 123 kW or 167 HP. Mind you, in this ‘2E excite’ version, you still enjoy plenty of zest with an acceleration from 0 to 100 in merely 8,2 seconds.

You have a 58 kWh battery which gives you a WLTP range of some 451 km. Its price is attractive with 36.995 including VAT at the moment of writing. We found the exterior (the) most pleasing, and also the interior made us smile. The seating position is excellent, and still in the revered Subaru tradition, the car handles very engaging indeed, and actually the same goes for the Solterra and the E-outback.

The compact Uncharted still seats five easily, and of course you can have more power and range, together with AWD. The top “4E-experience+” version gives you 252kW/343hp combined with a 77 kWh battery. WLTP range is then 490 km and it is good to know that the towing capacity is not less than  1,500 kg. This version is at the time of writing priced at 47.995 Euros.

The Solterra (see photo here above) comes in an ‘4E experience’ version which costs exactly the same as the ‘experience+’ version of the Uncharted, with the same battery capacity and engine power, but here the car is longer overall with 4,690 m and has a longer wheelbase of 2,850 m. It can also tow 1,500 kg and has a larger boot space of 452 l compared with 403 l for the Subaru Uncharted.

The E-Outback is the top of the range model, has the same wheelbase as the Solterra, but is the longest with 4,845 meter and also the most powerful with a 280 kW/381 HP motor, which puts performance almost in the supercar league. The car is available in 4E experience and experience+ versions, with the WLTP range in the most dynamic version being 477 km with its 74,7 kW battery.

We also put the E-Outback through its paces on the off-road course, and we were truly impressed by the uncanny ease with which it tackled every possible terrain challenge we put to it. The inexperienced driver is aided by Subaru’s unparalleled driver-assistance system.

Its ‘Hill Descent Control’ is fully integrated into their X-Mode system – an enhancement to their standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive drivetrain. With X-MODE activated, HDC is automatically engaged when it detects a descent. Subaru’s hill descent control can only be used when driving under 12 mph and controls the throttle response and brakes when moving up steep hills to ensure traction is kept.

We will be driving the Subaru Uncharted and the other new EV’s after the summer holidays. Stay tuned!

Hans Knol ten Bensel


 


 

We drove the Kia EV4: a star is born…

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The new Kia EV4 has many cards upon it s sleeve: very pleasing, extravagant styling, much room and an excellent range. It stands next to the EV3 in the showrooms, and one might ask why Kia launched two models in the same compact class, almost one after the other. Well, the EV4 was launched for all the very good extra  reasons, besides what the EV3 already offers..

The EV4 sits 8 centimetres lower, but more importantly, it’s 13 centimeters longer and has a longer wheelbase too, which means you have one of the biggest rear legrooms in its class.

There is also a limousine version, with an extra large luggage space under its stretched tailgate door, but it is rather the classic SUV version which is meant for our European public, and is therefore built in Slovakia.

The electric motor develops 150 kW, and drives the front wheels. You can choose between a 58,3 and a 81,4 kW battery, and this warrants you quite good ranges. On the smaller battery, you have a range of about 410 km, which is in itself a good average for its class. The bigger battery offers a range of close to 600 km, or let’s say at least 500 km under normal driving circumstances. The excellent aerodynamics of the EV4 make this possible: the Cw is merely 0,32 kW, and the car is lower too.

Driving

The EV4 is dynamic with a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in under 8 seconds, and top speed for both versions is around 170 km/h. The power is smooth and wonderfully progressive, and this results in a  quite enjoyable driving experience. It is indeed a joy to drive this Kia over winding and mountainous roads, where the steering could be somewhat more sensitive, but one has to admit that the chassis and suspension engineers had above all a “Zen” driving experience in mind. We have to admit that they achieved this admirably, as sound insulation is excellent, also at high motorway speeds.

Charging the Kia EV4 on a (public) AC point is only possible at a maximum of 11 kW, and DC fast charging is possible up to 128 kW for the larger battery, up to 100 kW for the smaller one. According to Kia, you can charge both batteries from 10 to 80 pct in about 30 minutes. Accord to WLTP standards, consumption is some 14,6 kW /100 km. Driving smoothly and with anticipation, it was well possible to achieve averages between 12-13 kW in town driving. The advantage of the bigger battery is that you can tow up to 1 tonne instead of 500 kg for the smaller one.

Of course, modern times let you use your smartphone the right way. Kia offers a smartphone app which lets you plan your route and send it to the car. It calculates the charging stops. The app also lets you open and start the car, and you can allow up to 15 persons to do the same…

Spacious

The  instrumentation and dashboard layout is virtually the same as in the EV3. The central touchscreen is seamlessly integrated with the drivers’ instrument display panel, and there are separate physical touches for ventilation and sound volume, which we liked very much.

The central armrest can fold away and holds also a useful storage space for all the things you might need for all your activities when waiting in the car when charging.

The cabin feels quite roomy, and there is ample leg- and headroom fore and aft. Luggage space is sufficient with a volume of 435 litres.

Infotainment and driving assistance up to scratch…

We live in modern digital times, and this shows of course in our cars. The Kia engineers did also a wonderful job, without going over the top with massive screens everywhere. We are, by the way, still amateurs of physical knobs and buttons for everyday things like sound and ventilation, and we still think the solution of a smart mouse as was adopted by Lexus years ago is the ideal one for the driver. No smudged screens, a much calmer hand to point at and select the functions than an erratic finger in a bouncing car. But this is of course subjective, and preferences can be – and mostly are – a very personal/individual thing.

But back to the EV4. It has virtually everything you could wish for, like distance parking, and you can order some extras like a head up display (we appreciated the one in our test car) and sound aficionados can opt for the formidable 8 speaker Harman/Kardon system.

Indeed, EVs are built for music lovers, as they are so silent; therefore, we always advise spending a good amount of money on a higher-end sound system.

Conclusion

The Kia EV4 has carved a nice niche in EV world: it looks cute and is with its lower profile refreshingly different from the traditional SUV brigade. It offers plenty of room nevertheless, and its range is also quite good to say the least. It responds well to spirited driving, and has a European, tout feeling behind the wheel. So take a long hard look at this one…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

We drove the N°8: French savoir vivre on wheels…

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When premium French automaker DS Automobiles designs a flagship model, one can expect something very outstanding and unique. This is indeed the case with the N°8, a sleek coupé-SUV, elegant to look at from any angle. Indeed, this car has panache, and this makes it in our eyes truly stand out.

Because, let’s face it: what makes you choose an EV in this day and age? Personally, I would say, the one that scores on style and character. The N°8 has lots of it…

Of course, there is also range, recharging capacity, efficiency and last but not least, handling and comfort. These are also elements which determine your choice. But let’s admit, drivetrain smoothness and performance is what EV’s all have more or less nowadays, so this is in my eyes hardly a determining factor anymore.

So this N°8 scores high, just by looking at it. When I walked around the car and entered the stunning cabin, staring at the four spokes steering wheel, I felt like stepping into the world of Jules Verne, tasting this unique mix of French genius with Victorian age idiosyncrasy. Well done, I would say to the designers and the other people who conceived the model’s mission status and character of the N°8.


 

A coupé-SUV

Let’s start with the exterior. A timelessly good looking car will have ideal proportions. This is what Pinin Farina and Felice Mario Boano already told us some 70-80 years ago. Just have a look at Boano’s design of the Lancia Aurelia, the GT version and of course the Ferrari 250 GT Low Roof Berlinetta.

The DS Automobiles designers have learned their lessons. Impressive, clean and tall sides, a bold front and rear end, with elegant yet expressively styled horizontal and vertical light elements on the four edges of the car.

We also liked the dual tone paintwork, the aluminum accents and the matte, brushed lettering on the rear end. The large wheels (740 mm in diameter) give the car a unique stance. The elongated and tapered profile that is illustrated by a roof stretching down to the tailgate’s spoiler. Each part of the bodywork has also been scrutinized in the wind tunnel. Its Cx is only 0.24 and its SCx merely 0.64

A premium cabin

Touches of art déco, but with an unmistakable sense of elegance, this is what the eyes meet in the interior. The photo’s tell you the whole story. Just look at the receded dashboard panel, a central screen panel which – refreshingly – is not so enormously big and imposing. The smaller panel in front of you gives you the info which matters, and not more. The design of the odometer is inspired by the world of watchmaking. The readability of the battery charge indicator and the “power meter” take precedence.

Like an airline pilot of France Aéropostal, where instruments were few and readable, as you needed all your senses to fly, like Antoine de Saint Exupéry or Jean Mermoz, on the night routes over the desert and ocean. This is how you feel behind the X-shaped steering wheel, but not hearing the sound of the single 12 V Renault 12JA aircraft engine like these heroes, in their Latécoère 26. Just silence, as the electric motor of your DS is virtually inaudible.

The heroes I described here also flew in an open cockpit, and had no radio. Things have changed for us. Just have a look at the beautiful speakers close to you on the front sides of both doors, part of a premium Focal Electra sound system with 14 speakers, a 515watt amplifier, and custom acoustic tuning developed specifically for DS interiors. You can enjoy music in this EV, for sure.      

Then there are the wonderfully designed and sculpted seats. Inspired by the DS AERO SPORT LOUNGE concept, the seats have fully integrated head restraints. The front seats are massaging, cooled and heated. Need we say more? Well, close-up thermal comfort is enhanced by the DS NECK WARMER, a device that favors heating as close to the body as possible to enhance energy consumption. These neck warmers fitted into the backrests of the front seats are illuminated by a backlit DS logo with a crystal appearance.

The rear seat comfort is nothing else but superb. There is ample knee room, 84cm of headroom and backrests inclined at 30°, without compromising their 40/20/40 modularity. Cooled and heated seat bases and backrests complete the comfort.

Driving

When you start moving behind the wheel of a DS Automobile, the expectations are high. The N°8 fully meets them. Whatever version you choose, there is utter drive train smoothness and power. The DS N°8 uses the Stellantis Group’s STLA Medium platform. This has been optimized in length and width to accommodate batteries up to a capacity of 97.2 kWh.

DS N°8 is available with a choice of three 100 % electric drive trains developing 230 hp, 245 hp and 350 hp, the latter being fitted with two electric motors for four-wheel drive. All motors enjoy excess power that periodically gives an extra 30 hp to the FWD version – 260 hp, 35 hp to the FWD LONG RANGE version 280 bhp, and 25 bhp to the AWD LONG RANGE model 375 bhp.

Performance is more than adequate: even the 230hp version accelerates in merely 7.7s from 0 to 100 km/h. Top speed is a respectable 190 km/h. The 245hp version which has the larger 97.2 kWh battery has virtually the same performance, but rewards you with a bigger range. According to WLTP figures, the 245 HP version has a range of 750 km, instead of the 572 km of the “base” version. The 350 hp version has of course close to superpower performance, with an acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5,4 seconds. The range of this AWD DS is 686 km.

Of course one can count on impeccable road manners and comfort. We found the DS quite responsive and tout, tending towards sportiness and it copes very well with a more enthusiastic driving style. Country roads can be driven with verve, and also in urban low speed traffic the N°8 feels well at home. Nevertheless, the steering feel is not too responsive, and car will not invite you to throw it around, but  lets you rather adopt  a comfortable, relaxed driving style. At high motorway speeds, the good road and tyre insulation as well as the sound deadening laminated glass keeps noise at bay, so you can enjoy the fantastic sound system and seat comfort.

DS N°8 is fitted as standard with DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION, a variable damping system linked to a camera positioned at the top of the windscreen. Supported by attitude sensors and 3 accelerometers, it analyses the road surface in a few milliseconds and transmits its information to a computer that acts on each wheel. Noblesse oblige, we would say again here.

Practical

Despite the coupe-SUV profile which makes the roof arch somewhat lower,  over the rear seats, but headroom is acceptable for most passengers. The floor of the car is rather high, and this raises your legs and knees a bit, reducing thigh support by the otherwise excellent rear seats. We enjoyed the clever thermal glass roof in the “Etoile” equipment version we tested.

Boot space is more than sufficient with 581 liters, and offers also a small under-floor compartment. When it comes to charging speed, it is worth to mention that the N° 8 features a 400-volt electrical system, and the maximum DC charging rate is  160kW.  This means that the 74kWh battery can be charged from 20-80 per cent capacity in 26 minutes, with the 97.2kWh pack taking just a minute longer to charge to the same amount. Note that EV Routing via DS IRIS SYSTEM 2.0 simplifies trip planning.

Conclusion
 

If you are looking for a refined car which truly stands out from the rest and which is a proud four wheeled statement of French refinement and savoir vivre, then this N°8 merits a long hard look.   

It is smooth and refined for eyes and senses, looks and drives beautifully, offering up to date practicality in its class. The N°8 soothes you with style and comfort, with performance and range to match, even in the base 230 HP version with the 74 kWh battery.

Hans Knol ten Bensel

We drove the Xpeng G6: an elegant high-tech and comfortable performer…

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We told you in our columns already about the successful entry of Xpeng into our domestic Belgian car market, and we test here for you their stylish mid-sized electric coupé SUV, the G6.  

Introduced on our shores in 2024, the G6 has already undergone a facelift, where the most important news is the new 80.8 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery, which replaces the former nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) unit.

This makes the G6 a true champion at the fast charging terminal: you can now charge it at an impressive 451kW. This means that this Xpeng G6 is built for the future, as at the moment of writing we still have to wait for such fast chargers to arrive in our country. But the fact that this allows you (in the future) to charge the battery from 10 to 80% in merely 12 minutes, is a strong (selling) point indeed. The new battery also means less use of expensive and less sustainable materials …

Spacious…

The G6 is not small, to say the least. Compared with the Skoda Enyaq, it is still a good 10 cm longer. It virtually is as wide and long as its important competitor, the Tesla Model Y. The interior space is indeed quite generous, also and even more so for the rear passengers: they enjoy ample leg- and headroom, despite the curving roof line and the coupe-like silhouette. The car also stands quite tall, and the designers have camouflaged this judiciously by putting the sills in a darker color.  One pleasant aspect is that you can… sleep in this G6, as the front seat backrest folds down horizontally and you can  remove the headrest. You can also install yourself neatly in the backseat, use the fully folded front seat as a footrest and have your laptop snugly installed on your stretched legs, and work comfortably…

…and some facelift details

The led headlight bar now runs fully over the front of the car, at the rear there is now a small duck tail spoiler. The car has now also a digital quite panoramic rear-view mirror, which is especially useful at night or when reversing in dark-lit areas. It can change back and forth to a “classic” mirror at the push of a button on its upper rim.

You can choose between 5 colors, and we liked the “stellar purple” of our test car. There is also an optional “black edition”, which is only offered for the time being on the 4WD 2- motor “performance” edition, which is the drivetrain of the car we tested.

An impressive platform with a drivetrain offered in 3 versions…

The G6 now uses Xpeng’s SEPA2.0 platform, with a chassis of aluminium and steel, reinforced by a stressed underfloor battery pack. The body is fully aluminium, the electrical architecture (with a silicon-carbide power inverter) runs on 800 V.

The model line up starts with the RWD standard range model, 252 HP with a 68,5 kW LFP battery. Then there is the Long Range model with a 297 HP motor and a 80,8 LFP battery. We drove, as said, the 4WD Performance model with 2 motors, 297 HP  + 190 HP (total 487 HP).

Superb performance, enjoyed in safety and comfort…

Needless to say that this “performance” edition is fast. Choose on the central screen among the available drive modes the “launch control” function, and then brace yourself. The G6 will take you from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4,1 seconds. The suspension and chassis can handle all this power smoothly, and the Xpeng feels utterly stable at high speeds and also in fast corners, with some noticeable body roll however. Top speed is electronically limited to 202 km/h, wind and road noise are virtually absent at high cruising speeds.

The Xpeng is comfortable, but its body sways gently over long road irregularities and all this does rather invite you to adopt a more restful driving style, despite its excellent stability and performance. Remember, this is a heavy car that weighs over 2.2 tonnes.

You can adjust the steering “feel” and responsiveness via the central screen and it also changes in function of the chosen driving modes. It transmits adequately the road surfaces, but again does not invite you to do some sharp and fast cornering. Just enjoy the smoothness and comfort, this is what the Xpeng engineers clearly had in mind when fine tuning the steering and suspension. The comfort at boulevard speeds in the city is therefore admirable. The long wheelbase indeed also brings extra smoothness.

The brakes are eminently up to their task, and indeed the 20 inch wheels add to the overall safe handling of the G6. Of course the G6 has ESP and boasts among many driving aids, even hill descent control.

Indeed, for the manufacturer, safety is paramount.  Xpeng therefore installed its ‘full scenario’ XPilot 2.5 driver assistance technology package in the G6, which is made up of a network of 29 cameras, radar transceivers and ultrasonic sensors. Did you know that all the data output is then monitored and processed by a special Nvidia processor?

You see the result on the large central screen, which all the surrounding traffic, bikes and pedestrians clearly shown. Indeed, this is a car made by a high-tech company, and this results in a wonderful and restful experience behind the wheel. Driver assistance systems are there in abundance, from lane assistance coupled with adaptative cruise control to parking and a lot more, it is all there.

Within the plethora of 29 cameras, you also have a camera which monitors whether you keep your eyes on the road. Fortunately, you can control its sensitivity via a menu on the touchscreen, so it does not interfere overwhelmingly when driving.

Refined and elegant interior…

With the facelift, the G6 had its interior upgraded with better ambient lighting and improved panel finishes. We liked the large wooden panel spanning across the dashboard. Besides the large and eminently readable 15,6 inch central screen, there is also a so-called digital 10,25 inch dashboard screen in front of the driver, and this gives you all the essential information right in the line of your vision.

Both front seats are adjusted electronically, and you can (pre)program your ideal individual seating position. The nappa leather seats (reserved for this performance version) are not only heated, they also have a massage function…

The wide central console allows you to charge TWO phones simultaneously, with up to not less than 50 W charging power.  

Climate control is also top notch with automatic air conditioning and a heat pump;  

All the main functions of the car, like heating/ventilation, opening/closing, navigation can be controlled using a mobile app. There is also an “Hey XPENG” speech assistant: 4 zones (also from the rear seats) , full scenario with intelligent suggestions and advisory remarks. You have also an App Store connection for music, video, social media, etc.

When you change lane or take a right or left turn, a camera view flashes up in this screen to show any upcoming traffic in the chosen lane. Indeed, you are definitively spoiled with a wide array of high-tech safety features.

These is of course an excellent DAB/FM radio, using a 16 speaker XPENG XOPERA 2.0 Surround Sound System, with two speakers in the front seat headrests…classic music buffs as we are, we greatly enjoyed each trip…

All this to say that sitting behind the wheel of this Xpeng one definitely gets a premium feeling, not in the least because of the excellent finish and the quality of the materials used.  

There are a lot of practical storage possibilities in the cabin, and luggage space is also quite adequate with 571 liters (1374 liters with rear seat backrests folded).

And what about consumption and range?

We noticed during our test a usable practical range of some 370-400 kilometers, with a 60/40 mix of motorway and city driving. Of course, in winter driving the heating/ventilation systems take also their toll, and we find this range therefore quite reasonable for a 2,2 tonne 487 HP car. When driving with some restraint, a consumption between 17 and 20 kW per 100 km is quite realistic. The manufacturer quotes 18,4 kW/100 km, and announces a WLTP range of 510 km.

Conclusion

This Xpeng G6 ticks many boxes, certainly taking into account that it offers impressive value for money. At the moment of writing, this 4WD Performance version is available for 51.990 Euros, and as we said earlier, in this price range, there is no other car that offers this charging capacity. Add to this the stylish exterior, the elegant, roomy, and fully appointed cabin, the comfortable ride, and safety-oriented stability combined with excellent performance, and you will agree that this Xpeng G6 deserves a long hard look when you consider buying a mid-size SUV.

Hans Knol ten Bensel

The Mercedes styling philosophy uncovered…

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The latest Brussels Motor Show proved to be a treasure trove for us car enthusiasts. At the impressive wonderful Mercedes stand on the show we met on the press day with Robert Lesnik, Director of Exterior Design. In front of the iconic and already legendary Concept AMG XX, he presented styling examples of what Mercedes believes stands for the brand.

He started off with this AMG XX, and commented that this car embodies a rare combination a very aggressive sporting front end, the side view with the timeless proportion of the long bonnet, a very round shaped rear end and an amazing interior. He also showed the legendary Autobahnkourier, and he also focused on the grille of the 300 SLR Uhlenhaut Renncoupé, being so iconic and a typical design hallmark over the years for the sport coupés and cabrios of the brand. He also commented further on the Concept AMG that this car is the harbinger of what is to come for the series version of this AMG Electric sports coupé.

Robert Lesnik commented further: “For the new generation we were inspired by our past cars and design heritage, which doesn’t mean that we are doing retro design. You can see it on the radiator grille of the new GLC Electric SUV, with just three horizontal bars illuminated, it is a modern interpretation of a classic design icon.”

Beauty and attraction…

“There are two elements, beauty and attraction, which are the goals when we design a Mercedes”, Robert continued. Something that attracts the customer and what he perceives as beautiful.”

“Obviously, this goes for both the exterior AND the interior. There must be a certain power. I would say the sweet spot for every Mercedes is the three-quarter rear end perspective, where you really see the shoulder, and you see also a very iconic graphic with two roundish rear lights, with three lights for the AMG versions.”

We asked also about the interior, although he is responsible for exterior design, but nevertheless…

“For the interior,” he continued, “there is always a combination of the digital and the analog. For the first time, we have a hyperscreen, made of three screens being seamlessly positioned together. Also when the instruments and screen is shut off, it is not uniformly black, the air vent openings are still illuminated, the touch fields and items on the screen are also still visible, the inside door handles have a metallic coating, silver shadow galvanized so to say, these elements were there earlier, and will stay also in the future. I always say, Mercedes has always a chromium strip more.” We could only agree…

Focusing further on the front of the car, Robert stressed that it is still somewhat higher, which results in a spacious frunk. We will also strive to have clean lines.

We asked Robert also when looking back at the elegantly styled cars for the hand of Paul Bracque, the cars were lean, low, with excellent all round visibility. Do we see these styling elements back in the Mercedes cars of today and the future?

“Indeed, cars were (much)smaller, but now cars are electric, and they need more volume because of the batteries. Cars therefore need to be higher and this also calls for bigger wheels. This means also that cars are wider and have longer wheelbases. So cars are bigger and later hopefully will get smaller again. But cars as elegant as the Pagode will never appear again because of the safety regulations… But for the next five years, our horizon is set, we have a good idea what our design strategy will be.”

We thanked Robert for the interview and show you here some photos.

In a further episode we will have a further interview with Oliver Löcher, Vice President Vehicle Engineering and Overall Vehicle Functions Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Xpeng, a high-tech EV car company that makes a sales hit in Belgium…

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Xpeng introduced on the Brussels Motor Show their P7+, an “intelligent fastback” brimming with advanced features…

AS everybody knows, Chinese manufacturers are entering our automotive markets, and indeed we have already applauded the very convincing Leapmotor C10, just read the test report in our columns.

In the coming weeks we will cover the Chinese brands which were present at the Brussels Motor Show, and we start this series here with Xpeng. An interesting story follows…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Xpeng, a fascinating company history…

The full name if Xpeng is actually Guangzhou Xiaopeng Motors Technology Co., Ltd.  XPeng was co-founded in August 2014 by Xia Heng and He Tao, former senior executives at GAC Group with expertise in automotive technology.

Let’s delve a bit more into this GAC Group. This is the Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. As of 2021, it was the 5th largest automobile manufacturer in China.

Maybe it is also good to know that on 17 November 2023, GAC Group announced the independent development of key technologies, including all-solid-state batteries, cobalt-free batteries, low-cobalt batteries, and sodium-ion batteries. The company aims to achieve the integration of all-solid-state batteries into automobiles by 2026. Say no more…

But back to Xpeng. The Initial backers were amongst others the founder of UCWeb and former Alibaba executive He Xiaopeng, namesake and current Chairman of XPeng, and Lei Jun, the founder of Xiaomi.

The spacious interior of the P7+…

Collaboration with Volkswagen…

On 26 July 2023, the Volkswagen Group announced its investment of $700 million in XPeng for purchasing 4.99% stake of the company. The VW Group will collaborate with XPeng to develop two VW brand electric models for the mid-size segment in the Chinese market in 2026.

In February 2024, XPeng and VW signed a technology cooperation and joint development agreement on platform and software. 

In August 2025, XPeng and Volkswagen Group signed an Agreement on Expanding E/E Architecture Technical Collaboration (“Expanded Technical Collaboration”). The signing of this agreement marks that the E/E Architecture will be not only integrated into Volkswagen’s electric vehicle platforms, but also deployed across its ICE and PHEV platforms in China, thereby significantly expanding the strategic technical collaboration to broader markets.

In November 2025, Xpeng announced a new driver-assist system designed for navigating narrow roads, which they say will be rolled out by the first quarter of 2026. The system is claimed to be able to navigate cars smoothly through the narrow streets and will be opened to other car makers, with Volkswagen being its first client. Brave new world we would say…

We spoke with Bart Hamminga, Country Managing Director of Xpeng Benelux.

Initial sales success in Belgium…

On their stand at the Brussels Motor Show, we had an interview with Bart Hamminga, Xpeng Country Managing Director of Benelux.

“Last year we announced our debut at the Brussels Motor Show, and we actually had a dream start. 12 months later, we could sign our 1000th sales contract.” Bart told us proudly.

“It shows that the Belgian car market is open for innovation and new technology” he continued. “The success is also due to the quality of our cars, which impressed the Belgian buyers. I think a very important contribution to the success was, last but not least, the cooperation with Hedin Automotive. It is, of course, essential to have a very good and solid partner. The combination of these three factors led to the very positive development we see on the Belgian market.”

Smiling faces: Bart Hamminga, Country MD of Benelux to the left, and XPeng Public Relations Manager René Aerts jr.

An impressive range

The P7+ has massive computing power, supporting the XPILOT ASSIST Advanced Driver Assistance System that uses a variety of cameras, radars, and sensors to offer support in three main areas: driving, parking, and safety.

At the Brussels Motor Show, Xpeng made the Eurpean premiere of the P7+, a model that was already on the Chinese market in 2024.

The car now got a  facelift, and is in “pure” EV available in a RWD Long Range or an AWD Performance version. The rear end is completely restyled, and Xpeng defines the car as an “intelligent fastback”.  

The Long Range will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6,2 seconds, the Performance version does this in merely 4,3 seconds. There is a lot of luggage space in this 3 m long wheelbase elegant 5 seater, with a volume of 573 l up to 1931 l with the rear seats reclined.

Needless to say that we look forward to put this high-tech and elegant P7+ EV through a test soon…

The 7+ has a 800-volt Si-C platform, which means that you can charge it from 10 % to 80 % in merely 12 minutes.

There is also the G6, which has a WLTP range of up to 525 km and also has the XPILOT driver assist system. It will also fast charge up to 451 kW and has also the 800 Volt SiC platform, which means that also with the G6 you can charge it from 10 % to 80 % in merely 12 minutes. It has a slightly shorter wheelbase of 289 cm compared with the P7+, but luggage space is still quite good with 571 l/1374 l.

The RWD standard range goes 470 km on a full charge according to WLTP standards. It will accelerate from 0 to 100 km in 6,7 seconds. The RWD Long Range has similar performance, but a slightly longer range of 525 km.

The dashboard and interior of the G6…

Last but not least there is of course also a full size SUV in the range, the G9. Its wheelbase is 299,8 cm or let’s say 3 meters. Luggage space is 660/1576 liters. Its kerb weight is an impressive 2,4 tons. An induction motor is at the front, a permanent magnet motor at the rear for the AWD version. Combined output is here not less than 423 kW…
 

The car is available in 3 versions, RWD standard and long range, then last but not least the AWD Performance. This flagship SUV in the standard range gets you 502 km far, the long range is good for 585 km. Almost supercar performance is warranted in the Performance version: in will sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4,2 seconds.

Also this car has the Ai speech command feature, and of course the same XPILOT driver assist system. As with all the Xpeng cars, the high-tech company will see to it that you get automatic wireless updates of its built in software.

The dashboard and interior of the G9…

he G9 has the so called “Full-Stack Logic” architecture, functioning with a binocular front camera and a rear camera. Much more on these clever cars when we drive them…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

Brussels Motor Show: Some thoughts about the styling future at Citroën, our talk with head of design Pierre Leclercq…

Posted in Automobilia, Car Events, Car manufacturers strategy, Car News, Car Shows, Car technology, Concept Cars, Design, E-mobility R &D and solutions, Fashion, Future car technology, Interviews, Lifestyle, New Models, prototypesLeave a comment

Conceiving the automotive future is always a very challenging task. Some brands have also  a future-oriented attitude more than others in their DNA, and one of them is certainly Citroën.

75 years ago, they brought us the 2 CV, a car which embodied nothing less than a four-wheeled French revolution, embodying Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. Indeed, this adagio of the French revolutionists fitted the post-war French “citoyens” admirably, as the 2CV brought them just that. Freedom for all, with low-cost mobility, practicality, and go-anywhere capacity.

This revolutionary dream of the brand with the double chevron has never died. And Pierre Leclercq, the Belgian born head of design, proved its love for practicality, out of the box progressive “back to authentic basics of automotive mobility” thinking  already with its wonderful and stunning OLI.   

Your servant was at the presentation of this OLI in Paris, and now stood eye to eye with the equally intriguing ELO. On both occasions, he met the designer, Pierre Leclerq. We talked to him again in Brussels…

Hans Knol ten Bensel

A creative career…

Pierre Leclercq started in 1998 at BMW as an intern, he joined the Italian coachbuilder Zagato in 1999, which he left after three months to join Ford Ghia. Here he designed the interior of the Ford Street Ka concept. In 2000 he returned to BMW, where he worked for 13 years. There he notably designed the BMW X5 E70, BMW X6 E71 and the rear of the first Mini Countryman. He also worked on a successor to the BMW M1 based on the BMW i8, but the project was ultimately abandoned.

Pierre Leclercq headed the design studio of Great Wall Motors from 2013 to 2017. He then became design director at Kia, but stayed only one year with the South Korean manufacturer. Needless to say that he acquired a keen understanding of the design philosophy and DNA of both European and Far East manufacturers.

In November 2018, he took over the head of Citroën’s design office, succeeding Alexandre Malval, who had moved to Mercedes-Benz. The first project he led entirely at Citroën was the C4 X, a 4-door version of the third-generation C4.

Three pillars to keep in mind when building this concept car…

On the Brussels show, at the presentation of the ELO and the subsequent talk we had with him, Pierre stressed that this concept car is first and foremost a laboratory of ideas. He also wants to demonstrate the three pillars of the design philosophy of this car;  he told us: “The ELO must become your third place (after home and office – editor’s note) to live in which you must be able to play, work and rest ”   

Work…

Pierre presented the ELO to us, showing the highlights of its design. “We start with a six seater”, with the driver in the center and two seats on both sides. The second row is made of three other seats.”

“Fold two seats under the rear seats and then you can rotate the driver’s seat 360 degrees, either for a good entry or when you want to work. Ideal for people who want to work – our first pillar –  in another place than the office.”

Play…

“I told you the second pillar is play”, he continues. “The cooperation with Decathlon was so inspiring and led to new ideas and applications. We developed an app together with them. You can plan your trip, plan your weekend, so that you don’t forget anything that you need, you have electricity and (compressed) air for your bikes and toys…”

Compressed air and electricity for your E-bikes are provided…

Rest…

“The third pillar is rest. You fold the seats in the back row, and you have a flat floor. You then use two matresses, again an innovation from Decathlon. You inflate them to have perfect rigidity. We also have a larger screen that can unfold and we have a projector that is on the side of the car, and the little roof opens up at the back of the car to let you look at the stars in the sky.”

We asked him also about the cooperation with Decathlon on this project…

PD: “We liked Decathlon because we carry the same values.” was his answer. “Decathlon is innovating because it makes well designed and well thought products and is not reverting to expensive technologies. We worked together from the beginning to the end on this project, and it was a big learning experience for us.”

What are the futher design hallmarks of the ELO, we asked.

PD: “The car is compact, but has a lot of glass, which is very important both for the driver and people in the back, and more importantly, children.”

Can you tell us more about the materials used, we wanted to know.

PD: “Many materials are recyclable and we even recycled materials from the OLI for this project. Also the interior panels for example. They are also cheap and easy to replace when scratched due to intensive use…”

You took advantage of the EV architecture, we remarked…

PD: “Indeed, we could maintain very compact dimensions whilst offering much room. We could move driver forward, even putting him in the centre.”

We will see much of these solutions in forthcoming models?  

PD: “Yes, this concept car is a laboratory of ideas, there is not one idea which we will not try to put into production. Of course, this is the beauty of our craft, of being a designer, is to make and develop many projects, and to put them on the road, and last but not least to sell them, because these concept cars are not made for us, but for the cliënt.  

Needless to say it was a big pleasure for us to meet up again with Pierre Declercq, and see and admire his stunning concept car, the ELO.

In the next report on the Brussels Salon we will talk to Robert Lesnik, Director Exterior Design Mercedes-Benz and Oliver Löcher, Vice President Vehicle Engineering and Overall Vehicle Functions Mercedes-Benz Cars. Stay tuned!

Hans Knol ten Bensel