News Roundup: Dec 15, 2025

Check out the video: https://youtu.be/GIBEC3bafd4

Citroen Rethinks the MPV

The Citroen ELO is a concept vehicle that embodies Citroen’s tradition of quirky, inventive design. Named for the second letters of “rEst, pLay, and wOrk,” it’s not an Electric Light Orchestra reference, but rather a statement of versatility. Citroen, having exited the compact MPV segment, aims to prove that the return of the MPV can be exciting, not dull. The ELO was designed in partnership with Decathlon, a sporting goods retailer, and packs a surprising amount of utility into a footprint smaller than the C3 hatchback, yet seats six.

Key features include:

• Identical front and rear bumpers for cost and complexity reduction

• Rear doors that extend into the roof for added light

• Asymmetrically split tailgate and opening roof section for tall loads, reminiscent of the Studebaker Wagonaire

• Goodyear tire pressure monitor with LED indicators

• “Base camp” capability: ceiling-mounted deployable mattresses, integrated air pump, and mountable awning

• Running light extrusions that double as trays for dinner plates

• 3+3 seating with a centrally-mounted rotating driver seat (think Fiat Multipla)

• Steering-wheel-mounted joysticks for secondary controls

• No touchscreen; info is displayed in a band along the windshield base

• Single-spoke steering wheel inspired by the Citroen DS

• Extensive use of recycled and recyclable materials

• Removable and stowable front passenger seats, a desk attachment for the driver, and rear seats usable as outdoor chairs

• Sportswear-inspired storage compartments

WHY IT MATTERS: Citroen’s willingness to push boundaries with true concept vehicles is rare today, and while the ELO may never reach production, its ideas could influence future models.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Like the earlier OLI concept, the ELO is chock full of clever ideas. Let’s hope they are not completely forgotten.

Mercedes’ 2nd GLB

The second-generation Mercedes GLB builds on evolutionary styling atop the new MMA architecture, shared with the CLA sedan and wagon. The upcoming GLA will be the last of the four MMA entries. The GLB will be available as an EV (with an 85kWh battery, 800V architecture, rapid charging, and up to 349hp) or as a 1.5L mild hybrid.

Highlights include:

• Grille with 94 animated LED stars and illuminated central star (EV only)

• Longer, roomier cabin with more cargo space

• Electrochromic panoramic glass roof with 158 illuminated stars

• AWD models feature terrain mode and a transparent hood for a virtual view under the vehicle

• Up to 4,400 lbs towing capacity

• Interior mirrors the CLA, with a full-width Superscreen display

• Steering wheel now has physical controls for volume and adaptive cruise control

• Virtual assistant integrates Microsoft and Google AI technologies

• MBUX system offers 11 ambient styles for lighting and background images

• Optional third row for passengers up to 5'6" and sliding second row seat

• Available 850-watt, 16-speaker Burmester 3D Surround Sound System

• Numerous standard and optional drive assist technologies

WHY IT MATTERS: Although Mercedes will have a smaller entry luxury portfolio going forward, they are not abandoning the segment, and the new GLB shows a commitment to remaining competitive in the face of the BMW X3 and Audi Q5, in addition to the Tesla Model Y and upcoming Rivian R2.

THE BOTTOM LINE: The MMA architecture is an excellent foundation for the new GLB, and Mercedes has made significant strides in design, technology and performance-just like the new CLA.

Kia Seltos

The Kia Seltos is one of two B-segment SUVs from Kia, alongside the smaller Stonic. It continues Kia’s ‘opposites united’ design philosophy, borrowing styling cues from the Telluride and Kia’s EVs. The Seltos features a star map lighting signature, flush door handles, and comes in X Line and GT Line variants.

Key features:

• Larger, stiffer, and roomier than before

• Unique rear lighting signature

• Moves to the newer K3 platform, with a range of engines: 2.0L gas, two 1.6L turbos, and 1.5L gas/diesel for India

• Hybrid with V2L capability and smart regenerative braking coming next year

• Multiple transmission options: manual, CVT, dual clutch, and conventional automatics

• AWD includes new multilink rear suspension and terrain mode for snow, mud, and sand

• Upscale interior: twin screen layout, head-up display, column-mounted electronic shifter

• Onboard AI digital assistant, OTA software updates, and digital phone key

• 64-color ambient lighting, reclining rear seats, Harman Kardon and Bose audio

• Full suite of drive assist technology

The new Seltos will also be sold in Europe, alongside the smaller and more affordable Stonic.

WHY IT MATTERS: While other automakers are looking to simplify, Kia still offers a dizzying array of powertrain options, reflecting both the global nature of the vehicle and the need to meet to a wide variety of consumer needs. The new look, drawing on both the Telluride and Kia’s EVs, shows the increasingly blurry lines between ICE and EV design.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Prettier, roomier, more capable, and more upscale, the Seltos is now a stronger competitor in the highly competitive small SUV segment.

Perodua’s 1st EV

Malaysia’s only automaker, Perodua, has invested $187M to create its first in-house EV, the QVE, in just 28 months. The QVE stands for “Quest for Visionary Electric Vehicle” and is part of the government’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030.

Notable aspects:

• Platform co-developed with Magna Steyr for mini and small models (hybrid, EREV, or EV capable)

• Current production: 500 units/month, targeting 3,000/month by Q3 2026

• FWD, 201hp, CATL 52kWh LFP battery, and V2L capability

• 0–60 mph in 7.5 seconds, ~200mi EPA equivalent range, 60kW fast charge

• Flush door handles, wireless phone projection, child presence detection system, full suite of driver assist tech

• Sold exclusively under a battery-as-a-service program: $17,600 plus $65/month

WHY IT MATTERS: Although unlikely to be seen outside of ASEAN markets, the QV-E represents a significant step for the Malaysian automaker. The new platform is also likely to lead to other bespoke Perodua entries-perhaps to the point where Perodua might consider additional export markets outside ASEAN.

THE BOTTOM LINE: Competent but not ground-breaking.

#automotive #autoperspectives #citroen #conceptcar #mercedes #glb #kia #seltos #electricvehicle #perodua #malaysia