Testing Chery's upcoming budget electric hatchback in China reveals an unexpectedly spacious cabin and an engaging driving experience. Designed as an entry-level urban commuter, the vehicle looks to capitalize on the rising demand for ultra-affordable compact EVs. While targeted at China and select international markets, it highlights the automaker's push to broaden its low-cost electrification lineup.
Renault has opened Australian orders for the refreshed Megane E-Tech electric hatchback, introducing the sporty Esprit Alpine grade priced from $55,990 before on-road costs. The update brings revised exterior styling, an upgraded battery pack delivering up to 480 km of range, and vehicle-to-load bidirectional charging capability.
Volkswagen's upcoming entry-level electric supermini, the ID Polo, makes a compelling case during initial UK road drives thanks to sharp pricing and an estimated 282 miles of range. Built on the front-drive MEB+ platform, the compact EV counters stiff European and Chinese competitors with an intuitive, button-friendly interior and balanced road manners. While strictly targeted at overseas markets, the model marks a crucial shift toward truly attainable electric runabouts for the German automaker.
MG is readying a budget-friendly subcompact electric hatchback dubbed the Go, designed to challenge rivals like the Renault 5 and electric Mini Cooper. Built on parent company SAIC's E+ architecture, the retro-styled EV is expected to offer a 43-kWh lithium-iron-phosphate pack and a starting price near £20,000. While European deliveries will kick off next year, local assembly is scheduled to launch at a newly planned facility in Spain by 2028.
Leapmotor's new B03 electric hatchback has gained regulatory approval in Australia, clearing the way for an entry-level market launch. Backed by Stellantis, the Chinese automaker plans to position the compact hatch as a direct rival to low-cost offerings from BYD and Geely. The move highlights the aggressive global expansion of affordable Chinese electric models into key international right-hand-drive markets.
Peugeot has unveiled the E-T16, a striking electric concept car that blends retro styling with futuristic performance. This high-powered hot hatch hints at the design and capabilities of the brand's next-generation electric supermini, showcasing its commitment to dynamic EVs.
BYD's smallest battery-electric vehicle, known as the Racco, is set to expand its global footprint following its initial launch in Japan. This compact electric hatchback, featuring a 22 kWh battery, is now slated for broader availability in various international markets.
Kia is preparing to unleash its EV4 GT, an all-electric performance hatchback designed to carve out a niche in the growing EV market. Positioning itself as a nimble electric alternative to iconic performance compacts, the EV4 GT aims to deliver an engaging driving experience. This release signals Kia's intention to diversify its GT sub-brand with smaller, driver-focused EVs.
A real-world test comparing the upcoming Volkswagen ID.2all concept (previewing the ID.Polo) and the new Renault 5 E-Tech in Europe revealed significant differences in efficiency and charging performance. Despite featuring similar battery capacities, the ID.2all demonstrated superior energy consumption and quicker charging times during highway driving conditions.
Volkswagen has officially revealed the ID.3 GTI, an all-electric hot hatch designed to deliver more power than the iconic gasoline Golf GTI. This marks a significant step for VW, pushing its performance line into the EV era with its most powerful GTI model yet.
Volkswagen has officially presented its highly anticipated ID.3 GTI concept, marking a significant evolution for the iconic performance badge. This new all-electric hot hatch promises a blend of traditional GTI driving dynamics with modern EV performance, boasting impressive power figures that outmuscle its gasoline predecessors. While currently a concept, the ID.3 GTI points to a compelling future for VW's performance electric vehicles.
China's GAC Aion has launched its new UT electric hatchback in the European market, positioning it as a direct competitor to established small EV models like the Renault 5 and Volkswagen ID. Polo. This move marks Aion's second model introduction to the UK, following an earlier SUV, as the brand looks to capture a share of the continent's growing electric vehicle segment.
Audi is reportedly developing an electric successor to its distinctive A2, a compact hatchback known for its efficiency and aluminum spaceframe. Aimed primarily at the European market, this new EV is projected to offer an impressive range of up to 400 miles, blending modern electric performance with a nod to the original's quirky design.
Volkswagen is reportedly developing a high-performance electric hot hatch, potentially branded as the ID. Polo GTI Clubsport, to bring its iconic GTI badge into the EV era. This new model is expected to offer a more hardcore, driver-focused experience building on the upcoming ID.2 platform, blending electric propulsion with sport-oriented dynamics.
Chinese EV giant BYD is reportedly developing a new electric hatchback, aiming to fill the size gap between its popular Dolphin and Seagull models. This expansion of its entry-level EV lineup suggests BYD's continued focus on accessible and diverse electric offerings in key markets.
Hyundai has introduced its new Ioniq 3, a compact electric vehicle designed to compete in the burgeoning European small EV segment. This aero-hatch model boasts an impressive range of up to 309 miles and an accessible starting price point around £22,000, positioning it as a strong contender against rivals like the Renault 5.
Hyundai has officially opened the order books for its upcoming IONIQ 3, an entry-level battery electric hatchback poised to enter the market with an attractive starting price point. This new model aims to expand EV accessibility, offering a compelling option for consumers seeking an affordable electric vehicle.
Hyundai has officially started manufacturing its new compact electric vehicle, the IONIQ 3, which is positioned as an affordable option for European consumers. This marks a significant step for the automaker as it aims to capture a larger share of the continent's growing entry-level EV segment with its latest BEV hatchback.
Kia is preparing to launch its EV4 GT, an all-electric performance hatchback designed to be a direct competitor to the Volkswagen Golf GTI in size and spirit. Expected in 2026, this model aims to fill a gap in the market for traditional, lower-slung electric family hatches, moving away from the prevalent crossover body style.
Spy shots reveal Volkswagen is developing another performance-focused electric hatchback, distinct from the upcoming ID. Polo GTI. This new model suggests an expansion of VW's electric 'hot hatch' offerings, with a full reveal anticipated by year-end.