The latest in auto news

In this week’s headlines, Kia revealed the three-row EV9 and Porsche announced a three-row EV of its own. Plus Mercedes-Benz updated its smallest crossovers, BMW is going full-screen with its next head-up display, and Hyundai priced the longest-range EV u

Kia revealed its biggest EV yet. The threerow EV9 will seat up to seven, with electric power and a shape that looks just like the concept. While the bold and blocky shape won’t get the coach-opening doors of the concept, it will get second-row seats that pivot rearward. Or sideways. Wisely, the dash is almost identical to the rest of Kia’s conventional cars, with dual 12.3-inch screens and plenty of console space. Expect more details, like range, later this month.

Porsche laid out more of its electrification plans, including a hybrid 911, electric 718 and Macan variants, and, now, a three-row electric SUV that will sit above the Cayenne. The electric Macan is still expected next year, with the 718 Cayman and Boxster “mid-decade.” That fourth model will be based on Porsche’s upcoming SSP architecture, developed with Audi. The brand says it will be sporty and luxurious, with Porsche performance. The Cayenne itself won’t go electric just yet, but a new chassis and upgraded PHEV models are expected to be revealed this year. As far as the iconic 911, Porsche still says there are no plans for a PHEV and it is not talking EV.

BMW just announced that its next generation of electrics will have a full-windshield head-up display. Called BMW Panoramic Vision, BMW says the driver can see more information or project it to be seen by everyone in the car. The automaker says it should give drivers a new feeling of space in the Neue Klasse EVs. The tech is expected to come to market for 2025. Mercedes-Benz is giving the GLA and GLB small crossovers a facelift for 2024. The update consists mostly of new light signatures and grilles to bring them in line with the latest MB models. A 10.25-inch dash display is now standard and paired with a same-sized centre screen. Both models get the latest MBUX system and the centre touch control is gone. The GLA 250 and GLB 250 get 48-volt mild hybrid assist to help save fuel in certain situations. The GLA and GLB 35 models, the AMG vehicles, get the same 48-volt upgrade. Expect the models around the end of the year. Hyundai has just priced the Ioniq 6. The longest-range EV for less than $120,000 will start from $54,999 when it arrives in Canada this spring. Just under the federal EV incentive cutoff. That’s the Preferred RWD Long Range model, with a range estimate of 581 km. The Ioniq 6 will also be offered with AWD for $57,999 (509km), and the Ultimate Package brings the car to $63,999. Ioniq 6 will have 350 kW Level 3 charging, a full suite of driver assistance features, and sleek sedan style. Michelin announced plans to build more tires for EVs at its plants in Nova Scotia. The tire maker announced a $300m investment, including $44m from the federal government. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was on-hand for the announcement along with NS Premier Tim Houston. The three NS plants will be upgraded to produce larger sizes of tires and tires designed to improve range for EVs and fuel economy for commercial trucks. Michelin says the investment will also help reduce plant carbon emissions.