News Roundup: Jul 20, 2026
- Adam Bernard
- 6 hours ago
- 5 min read
Check out the video: https://youtu.be/FcM8Vew2lLA
Xiaomi Branches Out
Xiaomi’s Sky Nomad series marks the brand’s next major EV expansion after the success of the SUV7, targeting the premium large-SUV space with the three-row N90 and shorter N70. Built on a new platform and offered as extended-range EVs, the models pair a 1.5-liter gas generator with sizable battery options, single- or dual-motor layouts, and up to roughly 170 miles of EPA-equivalent electric range. The N90 is notably heavy, but Xiaomi emphasizes extensive real-world testing and a highly flexible interior aimed at camping, family travel, and lounge-like use, including fold-flat seating, swiveling front seats, pop-up roof features, and entertainment options. Entering a crowded Chinese premium SUV segment, Sky Nomad appears positioned as a tech-forward lifestyle vehicle with strong outdoor and luxury ambitions.
WHY IT MATTERS: Xiaomi is already an amazing success story, and the fact they were developing this series before the SU7 hit the market shows remarkable prescience. These products will build on China’s increasing appetite for EREVs and large premium SUVs
THE BOTTOM LINE: Both entries seem competitive but, so far, there doesn’t seem much to help them stand out from this increasingly crowded segment.
Nissan’s Lux Minivan
The fourth-generation Nissan Elgrand pushes the long-running minivan further upmarket with a design and driving experience inspired by a “private MAGLEV” and Nissan’s Timeless Japanese Futurism theme. Previewed at the Japan Mobility Show and now formally launched, it combines traditional Japanese design cues such as kumiko-inspired detailing with standard third-generation e-Power hybrid technology, electric all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and six drive modes. Nissan also emphasizes refinement through Smooth Stop braking, Advanced Active Noise Control, quiet cabin tuning, and available hands-free ProPilot capability. Inside, the Elgrand leans into luxury with full-width ambient lighting, capacitive controls, rich upholstery colors, and practical touches such as three 100V outlets, reinforcing its role as a premium Japan-focused people mover.
WHY IT MATTERS: Although Nissan doesn’t sell the Elgrand in China, the improvements made here suggest it might be competitive with the latest wave of Chinese luxury minivans. It also offers them a competitor to the Lexus LM in their home market (although without premium purchase/ownership experience).
THE BOTTOM LINE: Nissan’s e-Power provides some unique functionality in this segment, and they seem to have folded in a variety of comfort- and quietness-oriented technology suitable for a luxury minivan.
Dacia Brings Wagons Back
The Dacia Striker expands Dacia’s C-segment lineup beyond the Bigster with a more wagon-like, outdoor-oriented model that shares key underpinnings while targeting buyers who want practicality, rugged styling, and value. With the Bigster already proving successful in Europe’s compact SUV market, the Striker is positioned to build on that momentum through approachable pricing, standard technology, and adventure-friendly features such as washable upholstery, rubber mats, roof-box accessories, and a pet car seat. Powertrain choices include mild- and full-hybrid options, with available electric all-wheel drive and terrain modes for snow, mud, sand, and off-road use. Inside, the Striker appears to reuse much of the Bigster dashboard and YouClip accessory system while adding more recycled materials and clever details such as a concealed ice scraper.
WHY IT MATTERS: Dacia is looking to grow their C segment share in Europe from 20% to 33% by 2030, and if the Striker (and its upcoming sibling) are as successful as the Bigster, they are likely to hit that target. Dacia also deserves credit for launching a new nameplate that’s not an SUV.
THE BOTTOM LINE: Attractive, well-equipped, and efficient, the Striker looks poised to be a highly competitive C segment entry.
VW’s New Affordable EV
The VW ID.CROSS serves as the electric SUV counterpart to the ID Polo and a battery-powered alternative to the T-Cross, offering a slightly larger footprint and significantly more interior space. Priced from about €28,000, it targets the growing small electric crossover segment against rivals such as the Fiat 600e, Kia EV2, Mini Aceman, and Renault 4. Battery options of 37 kWh and 52 kWh support outputs from 114 to 208 hp, DC fast charging up to 105 kW, vehicle-to-load capability, and up to roughly 230 miles of EPA-equivalent range, though no performance or all-wheel-drive version is planned. The ID.CROSS also blends modern EV design touches—such as matrix headlights, 3D LED rear lights, illuminated crossbars, and an illuminated VW badge—with a more familiar cabin approach that keeps physical controls, fabric trim, and comfort technology like massage seats, premium audio, Travel Assist, and Park Assist Pro.
WHY IT MATTERS: The fourth entry off VW’s new affordable EV platform targets a significant growth opportunity.
THE BOTTOM LINE: The ID Cross seems quite competent—and gets bonus point for bring back physical controls—but faces stiff competition in this segment.
Streetwise Defender
Urban Automotive’s Avontur transforms the Defender 110 into a limited-run “luxury sports leisure truck,” echoing past attempts to turn upscale SUVs into lifestyle pickups while giving the Defender a far more bespoke appearance. Revealed at Goodwood to mark the firm’s tenth year at the festival, the conversion adds 36 new components, including carbon trim, widened fenders, a custom hood, and 23-inch wheels. The exposed carbon bed is designed for lifestyle utility, with a modular rail system, bottle holder, tailgate, and tailgate-mounted spare tire rack, while an added rollover bar helps preserve structural rigidity. With the powertrain carried over, the Avontur’s appeal rests less on mechanical transformation and more on its dramatic design, craftsmanship, and novelty as a high-end Defender-based leisure pickup.
WHY IT MATTERS: Land Rover used to make a Defender pickup but is now out of that business—and with pickups now a bit less work-oriented, this custom project fills an unmet need for at least a few people.
THE BOTTOM LINE: A clever niche product that will likely find a handful of very satisfied owners.
Aston’s Dreadnought
The Aston Martin Dreadnought is less a production preview than a playful design exercise, giving the brand room to explore a wild, militaristic off-road concept created for the “Call of Duty” videogame. Drawing loosely on the spirit of extreme machines like the Lamborghini LM002 and the brutish character of 1970s-era Aston Martin V8 Vantage models, the Dreadnought trades traditional Aston elegance for exaggerated proportions and fantasy-vehicle presence. Aston Martin even built a full-size model for its New York unveiling, underscoring the project’s showpiece value despite its limited connection to future production vehicles. Inside, the use of physical controls keeps the concept grounded in a tactile, functional aesthetic, making the Dreadnought a memorable bit of brand experimentation rather than a sign of a new model direction.
WHY IT MATTERS: Everyone deserves a chance to let their freak flag fly, and Aston Martin’s designers are no different. This might also help boost the brand’s visibility among younger gamers.
THE BOTTOM LINE: A little crazy never hurt anyone…