For more than 30 years, automakers and suppliers—including manufacturers of complete seats and seat components—in North America benefited from nearly hassle-free movements of vehicles and auto parts between the US, Canada, and Mexico; first as part of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and later under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). However, the trade dynamics have changed rapidly this year after the US government announced several tariffs on imports of goods i...

The fifth-generation RAM 1500 is produced at the Saltillo Truck Assembly Plant (STAP) in northern Mexico, alongside the current production at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (SHAP) in suburban Detroit. Production of the vehicle is expected to peak at more than 167210 in 2026  according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility. Image Source : RAM  Suppliers to the new RAM 1500 COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS ...

The compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) from Volkswagen has entered a competitive market, showcasing a design that aims to capture attention. However, does it deliver on the promise of a well-rounded interior? Sharing its platform with the Volkswagen T-Cross, the Taigo uses the MQB A0 architecture. Its sleek, coupe-like silhouette features a sloping roofline and a 66-mm height reduction, enhancing visual appeal while maintaining adequate interior space. The cabin offers options for body-color...

The Nissan Juke, now in its second generation, continues to pay homage to its motorbike-inspired roots while evolving in terms of design and functionality. The interior reflects this duality, with elements like a glossy center-tunnel top that resembles a fuel tank and a cowl above the dials, reminiscent of the original model. However, the 2024 update has introduced improvements, making the Juke's interior both more refined and user-friendly. Interior overview The cabin features soft padded...

This Insight continues our series of car interior reviews, focusing on the technologies and materials. Launched in Europe in late 2021 and refreshed in 2024, the Honda HR-V carries the e:HEV badge, following in the footsteps of its siblings, the CR-V and Jazz. The interior of the HR-V has been designed to enhance accessibility and comfort. The central dash and console have been adjusted for easier access to the wireless charging mat. Enhanced sound-deadening measures have been implemented to ...

The 2020s have not been auspicious for the automotive industry or the automotive supply chain. Increasing regulatory stringency regarding emissions and fuel economy, the topsy-turvy transition to electric vehicles, the rise of software-defined vehicles (SDVs) and, more recently, tariffs and counter-tariffs imposed by various countries have all contributed to the current turmoil. All this followed the COVID-19 pandemic at the beginning of the decade, which caused widespread auto supply chain...

Automakers are counting on electric motors, which convert electrical energy into mechanical energy by applying the principle of electromagnetism, for supporting various functions in vehicles, ranging from chassis and safety to powertrain to interior systems. In the automotive interior, electric motors have been used for enabling comfortable seating, opening/closing of sunroofs, rolling up/down of door windows and for locking/unlocking of doors. In addition, electric motors are integral...

The automotive industry has long been recognized as a high-capital, low-return sector, grappling with various economic pressures and competitive challenges. In recent years, the landscape has shifted dramatically, particularly with the rise of mainland Chinese automotive companies. Here we review the profitability trends between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers, and the implications of macroeconomic factors that shape the industry. The automotive sector is currently in tu...

Ambient lighting has rapidly emerged as a key tool for automotive designers to transform vehicle interior. Demand for the innovative interior lighting solution has grown rapidly over the past five years, consistently setting new fitment records annually. According to the forecast by S&P Global Mobility analysts, automakers installed 318.4 million ambient light components in more than 89 million vehicles produced in 2024. Ambient light fitment is forecast to continue to grow over the next six...

The automotive industry is transforming as it faces sustainability pressures and must adapt to changing market dynamics. Recently, the focus on sustainability has intensified due to regulatory requirements, consumer demand for greener products and the urgent need to combat climate change. The S&P Global Mobility 2025 Supplier Outlook highlights the sustainability practices being adopted across the automotive supply chain. The growing pressure for sustainability Luz Mauch, executive vic...

The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, shaped by shifting consumer preferences and economic pressures. Suppliers must be agile and proactive, swiftly responding to consumer demands while balancing production costs and profitability in a fiercely competitive market. The S&P Global Mobility 2025 Supplier Outlook emphasizes the need for suppliers to tackle these market changes head-on. Consumer behavior in flux Economic factors are key in shaping how consumers behave. In turn, these...

In an era where vehicles are as much about software as they are about steel, partnering has become essential rather than just beneficial. It is the powerhouse driving advancements in connected vehicles, autonomous driving innovations and sustainable practices within the automotive industry. However, collaboration in this sector can be a double-edged sword; while it sparks innovation, it also presents challenges. Cultural clashes, intellectual property dilemmas and the need for agility in respons...

The automotive industry is grappling with a myriad of supply chain disruptions that have become increasingly common since the pandemic struck. In addition to Brexit complexities, rising material costs, natural disasters, geopolitical tensions and economic instability are forcing companies to rethink their logistics and sourcing strategies on the fly. While improvements are anticipated in the global car chip shortage, challenges persist. As Nimish Ashar, associate director of E/E & Semicon...

As the automotive industry evolves, suppliers must prioritize regulatory compliance due to stricter environmental laws linked to climate change. Investing in new technologies is essential to avoid penalties and enhance competitiveness. We examine the regulatory challenges facing suppliers and share insights from industry executives in S&P Global Mobility’s 2025 Automotive Supplier Outlook. Regulatory pressures: A catalyst for change Automotive suppliers are facing numerous challenges...

The European automotive supply industry is currently grappling with a severe labor shortage, exacerbated by record attrition levels that have plagued it over the past few years. This alarming situation has led to job losses that surpass even the darkest days of the pandemic. Despite optimistic forecasts for new job creation, the reality reveals a staggering net loss of nearly 56,000 positions since 2020, with the worst yet to come, according to The European Association of Automotive Suppliers (C...

Amid escalating trade tensions, US President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on key industries with a series of executive orders, ordering a review of US trade agreements and signaling further tariffs on automotive, semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. With a potential 25% tariff on all imported vehicles and new steel and aluminum tariffs set to take effect on March 12, 2025, the automotive sector faces mounting uncertainty. With the rise of software-defined cars, semiconductor content p...

Sustainability is transforming almost every industry around the world, including the automotive industry. Several automakers have set targets to achieve net carbon neutrality over the next 15-20 years. Stellantis plans to reach this goal by 2038; Mercedes-Benz in 2039; General Motors and Renault Group in 2040, Hyundai Motor Group in 2045; and BMW, Ford, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki, Toyota and the Volkswagen Group in 2050. To achieve net carbon neutrality, vehicle manufacturers are integrating susta...

The Indian electric vehicle industry seems to have entered the fast lane. The market is flush with new EV models, charging infrastructure is growing, and most of all, sales are rising. Nearly 100,000 EVs were sold in the country in 2024, a 20% growth compared to the previous year. The enthusiasm for EVs was quite visible at this year’s Bharat Mobility Global Expo, the leading auto show in India, now in its second year. The event held from Jan. 17–22 had more than 1,500 exhibitors and reco...

The Nissan Qashqai, launched in 2007, set off a trend for compact-crossover SUVs, leading to a surge in direct competitors in Europe. This review focuses on the interior technologies and materials used in the third-generation model's face-lifted interior. Like its predecessors, the styling of the new Qashqai was directed by Nissan Design Europe, based in Paddington, London, while engineering was led by the Nissan Technical Centre Europe, in Cranfield, UK.      &n...

As we approach the end of 2024, our Talking Heads series delves into conversations with the practice leads at AutoTechInsight. The aim is to explore the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their respective domains. In 2024, the automotive sector faced a series of challenges that tested its adaptability. Supply chain disruptions, coupled with declining raw material costs like lithium, added to these difficulties. Amidst these challenges, manufacturers began pivoting toward plug-in h...

The new CUPRA Terramaris designed in Barcelona and manufactured in Győr, Hungry. Production of the car is expected to peak at 71900 in 2025, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility. Image Source : CUPRA  Suppliers to the CUPRA Terramaris COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Low -voltage battery Clarios A/C Compressor Denso Die-Casting Inverter Housing FOMA Spa Gear Shifter - Shift by Wire Kostal ...

In the aftermath of the US election, President-elect Donald Trump’s impending return to the Oval Office has sparked widespread speculation about the implications of his second term, particularly in the automotive sector. As the world watches, the intersection of politics and innovation becomes a focal point, with the administration's stance on the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and its impact on electric vehicle supply chains taking center stage. Meanwhile, the alliance between Elon Musk and th...

The US Commerce Department issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) on Monday (Sept. 23) which, if approved, would ban the sale or import of vehicles that incorporate connectivity technologies plus systems incorporating prohibited hardware and software from countries of concern, specifically mainland China and Russia. The NPRM follows a process initiated by President Joe Biden in February and is based on public feedback to an earlier notice issued by the Commerce Department, which sought to...

Sunroofs remain one of the key aspirational features in new vehicles. Nearly one in every three light vehicle produced in 2023 came equipped with a sunroof system. This share is forecast to further improve over the next six years. According to S&P Global Mobility expectations, automakers will equip 38 million sunroofs in 97 million light vehicles (39%) in 2030, up from 31 million sunroofs in 90 million light vehicles in 2023. One major trend in sunroof installations is the increasing prev...

The Cadillac OPTIQ is manufactured at at the company’s advanced assembly plant in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico. Production of the car is expected to peak at 13175 in 2025, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility. With the planned production of Cadillac’s Optiq in Mexico, the GM Ramos Arizpe plant will become the second production site to produce the model, following the Cadillac Jinqiao plant in mainland China, which exclusively serves the Chinese market. Image Sourc...

Airbags, along with seatbelts, are the most effective passive safety systems used in vehicles to mitigate the impact of road accidents. Airbags have proved to be highly effective, especially in high-frontal and side impact accidents, in both saving lives and reducing injuries. Unlike seatbelts, airbags are not mandatory fitment in vehicles in many markets. Some countries have made driver’s side airbags or frontal airbags (comprising the driver airbag and the front passenger airbag), mandato...

The Genesis GV70 is designed to compete with premium SUVs like the Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3. It also offers a variety of trim packages and customizable options, making it appealing to a wide range of buyers seeking both comfort and performance in a luxury vehicle. We take a closer look inside. The cabin radiates luxury with its quilted leather seats and a meticulously crafted dashboard featuring elegant, layered designs. It accommodates five passengers comfortably, with adjustabl...

The Nissan X-Trail is a popular sport utility vehicle (SUV) that balances functionality and comfort. We delve into its interior design, infotainment system, connectivity features, luggage capacity, cabin versatility, and interview Alex Edmond, Qashqai & X-Trail product section manager at Nissan Motor (GB) Limited. Interior design and comfort The interior layout is straightforward, with controls positioned for easy access. While the materials used throughout the cabin are generally of g...

The Volkswagen ID.7 is manufactured at its factory in Emden, Germany. Production of the car is expected to peak at 40998 in 2025, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility Image Source : Volkswagen  Suppliers to the new Volkswagen ID7 COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Low -voltage battery Clarios Suspension Componets Rollax Trim Clips , Single Side Clip EFC International Door Control Unit , OnBoar...

The Fourth-generation BMW 1-Series is manufactured at its Group Plant Leipzig in Germany. Production of the car is expected to peak at 113774 in 2025, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility. Image Source : BMW  Suppliers to the BMW 1-series COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Exterior Mirror Motherson Sumi Systems Oil Suction Filter IBS Filtran Hot End Assembly Boysen Hose & Tube Protection De...

The Dodge Chargers will be built in Windsor, Ontario. Production of the car is expected to peak at 31714 in 2025, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility Image Source : Dodge  Suppliers to the Dodge Charger COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Low Voltage Battery Clarios Panel Retainers - Air Induction System EFC International Seat Cross Member , A-Pillar ,  Gestamp Roller Finger Follower...

The Renault's new compact C-Segment SUV, the Symbioz is manufactured at the Valladolid plant in Spain. Production of the car is expected to peak at 75345 in 2025, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility Image Source : Renault  Suppliers to the Renault Symbioz COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS HVAC Module Denso Electronic Park Brake Switch Kostal Cylinder head Nemak Center Console, Inst...

The second-generation Nissan Leaf improves upon its predecessor in all aspects, offering increased speed, better driving dynamics and a longer range between charges. But how does the interior compare? We take a closer look inside. Inside story The Leaf's seats provide a comfortable ride, with the option of luxurious leather/suede covering on higher trims. You can enhance safety for little ones with the optional Isofix mounting for the front passenger seat. While the storage space is not ex...

Genesis is gradually gaining recognition for its top-notch interior quality, even when compared to established luxury vehicles in its segment. We take a closer look inside the G80. Inside story The car's interior features rich finishes such as wood trim and metal accents, and a focus on detail. It has a wide-spanning dashboard display that looks upscale and uncluttered. Customization options include quilted leather, a premium audio system and electrically reclining rear seats with entertai...

The Mercedes Benz G-class is produced at the Magna Steyr plant in Graz, Austria. Production of the car is expected to peak at 33521 in 2025, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility. Image Source : Mercedes-Benz  Suppliers to the Mercedes Benz G-class COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Coupling Flange Hirschvogel Automotive Group Floor Carpet Auria Steering Wheel Switch Kostal Low-voltage battery ...

Automotive seat suppliers benefitted from strong growth in vehicle production in 2023. According to S&P Global Mobility data, light-vehicle production increased 9.4% year over year to 90 million units, recording the highest annual growth after the COVID-19 pandemic. Apart from the continuing recovery in vehicle demand, most automakers benefited from the easing of supply chain crisis, especially chip shortages which had forced them to adjust their production strategies for more than two years...

Beyond its quirky name, what makes the Honda e:Ny1 interior stand out in the small electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) segment? Built on Honda's e:N Architecture F platform, the e:Ny1 is priced above its competitors and offered in two specification packs: Elegance and Advance. Both offer a range of features, but the Advance pack enhances the cabin's visual appeal and includes additional features such as a panoramic roof and a heated steering wheel. Advance grade models also feature a panoram...

Genesis is gradually gaining recognition for its interior, comparable to German luxury brands. As electric vehicles become more software-driven, automakers must incorporate distinctive features to differentiate their models in a competitive market. The GV60 is the first EV from Genesis and built on the same platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. It is available in three different versions: Premium, Sport and Sport Plus. The latter comes with a fun feature on the steering wheel called Bo...

OPPO was instrumental in founding the Intelligent Car Connectivity Open Alliance (ICCOA), aiming to integrate smartphones and connected cars. OPPO collaborates with OEMs to integrate smartphone capabilities with vehicle capabilities and envisions a significant opportunity to leverage the computing power and sensor perception of vehicle sensors. Responsibility in car sharing during higher levels of autonomy is a key issue, as it is unclear who will be held accountable in the event of an acci...

It offers front- or all-wheel drive options with a choice of battery sizes and delivers impressive horsepower. But what of the interior?  We take a closer look. Inside story The cabin features a sleek and cohesive design with a dashboard that extends into the doors. Two large digital displays, for instruments and infotainment, provide a futuristic and high-tech feel. The use of plush materials throughout the cabin adds a touch of luxury and comfort, including an Alcantara suede cov...

The demand for seat thermal solutions is forecast to grow rapidly as automakers focus on delivering more effective, more localized and personal thermal comfort in cabins of new vehicles. Automakers mainly offer heated seats and ventilated seats. However, many vehicles also feature more advanced climate-controlled seats, which can efficiently manage both heating and cooling functions using the same set of components. The seat heat-mat system is the most widely used heated seat solution. It fea...

As the world awoke on the morning of March 26 to the news that there had been a crash involving a container ship and the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the city of Baltimore, which had caused the bridge to collapse, immediate thoughts were with the safety and welfare of all concerned. Six people are missing, presumed dead in the tragic aftermath. Traffic through the port will be suspended until further notice and looks set to cause disruption to trade and supply chains. One of the sectors that w...

While the market size is not as big as for traditional seat belts, active seat belt systems will gain prominence in the era of autonomous mobility. It functions in close collaboration with the vehicle’s safety systems to reduce the impact of injuries in an event of an accident. The active seat belt system uses braking and stability control sensor information to sense a potential accident. It secures the driver and passenger seat belts by removing seat belt slack so that the seating position of...

The floor consoles, also called the center console in some markets, is the area in a vehicle’s cabin that generally separates the driver’s seat with the front passenger’s seat. In many vehicles, the floor console appears to be connected to the center of the instrument panel. In other vehicles, there is some gap between the floor console and the instrument panel. Automakers generally do not offer floor consoles in light commercial vehicles (LCVs). The floor console houses the gear shifte...

Nissan’s fourth-generation X-Trail is offered in both five and seven-seat configurations. We take a closer look inside. Inside story The cabin is cloaked with some premium materials and smart features, with special attention being paid to the ergonomic and tactile quality of the switchgear and buttons to give them a high-quality feel. Nissan’s research shows customers’ preference for easy-to-use core functions, so the X-Trail has simple, intuitive heating/air-conditioning controls, a...

The Peugeot 3008  is produced the Sochaux plant in France. Production of the car is expected to peak at 140494 units in 2024, according to the forecast from S&P Global Mobility. Image Source : Peugeot  Suppliers to Peugeot 3008 COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Electric Water Pumps Aisin Wiring Harness Protection Delfingen HVAC Module Denso Instrument Panel Motherson Top Mounts, Bush...

Inside the Honda Civic Type R's cabin, the design closely resembles the standard model but introduces distinctive features. These include a digital dial setup with mode-dependent changes and F1-style gear shift lights, along with Type R-specific elements, such as a teardrop metal gear knob, build number badge and +R drive mode button. Faux suede accents on the steering wheel, gear gater and all-red sport seats, complemented by red trim and ambient lighting, enhance the interior aesthetics. ...

The Toyota Tacoma is produced  in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato. Production of the car is expected to peak at 136086 in 2024, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility. Image Source : Toyota    Suppliers to Toyota Tacoma COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Seat Fold/Recline WR Controls LED Headlamp North American Lighting Hitch Tube Schuler Hydroforming Front Sideshafts  ...

The Chevrolet Traverse is produced at at the GM Lansing Delta Assembly Plant in Delta Township. Production of the car is expected to peak at 142127 in 2024, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility.     Image Source: Chevrolet Suppliers to Chevrolet Traverse COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Spring Seat Isolators Vibracoustic Upper and Lower Body Structure Multimatic Tubular Stabilizer Bars M...

Designed specifically for the European market, the Genesis G70 Shooting Brake represents the fifth new model to make its debut in the region. The interior has an upmarket vibe, blending soft-touch surfaces with durable switchgear, creating a compelling case in the premium estate car realm. The dashboard layout incorporates physical buttons for climate control, complementing the 10.25-inch touchscreen. Despite the absence of the rotary controller found in newer Genesis models, the G70 demon...

Until late 1990s interior lighting in vehicles mainly comprised map lamps, dome lamps and a few other auxiliary lamps. These lamps generally used when driving at night, helping drivers and other occupants get into car, sit properly and exit from the car safely once the commute is over. Such lights also helped drivers and passengers find something in their vehicles in the event of an emergency. In addition to these basic functional lamps, some premium vehicles also featured reading lamps for rear...

According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) latest global status report on road traffic safety 2023, around 1.2 million people are killed and as many as 50 million people are injured every year in road traffic accidents worldwide. Occupants in four-wheel-drive vehicles represent the highest percentage of all fatalities, at 30%. This is followed by pedestrians (23%), two- and three-wheeler users (21%), and cyclists 6%. Occupants in commercial vehicles carrying more than 10 people a...

The Consumer Electronics Show, or CES, is an annual exhibition which features a vast spectrum of technologies targeting various industries, including automotive. Held in Las Vegas from Jan. 9 – 12, 4000 exhibitors, of which more than 1000 were startups, participated in the 58th edition of the show. The growth of software-developed vehicle strategies has led to the creation of various interesting in-vehicle technological concepts. The article looks at the several interior products and soluti...

The fourth-generation Skoda Superb is produced at the automaker’s factory in Bratislava. Production of the car is expected to peak at 45183 in 2024, according to a forecast from S&P Global Mobility.          Image Source : Skoda   Suppliers to Skoda Superb COMPONENT NAME SUPPLIERS Wiring Harness Protection  Delfingen Liftgate Hinges Edscha Cylinder Head Nemak Inte...

As we kick off the new year, S&P Global Mobility analysts are covering the anticipated trends to expect at CES 2024 in Las Vegas next week. Our team will be on the ground covering the event, with some daily shared content available via our platforms and channels. Additionally, meetings with the team are available if you’ll be at the show; we’d love to connect. Please reach out to your account representative or mobility@spglobal.com to make arrangements for a meeting.  Connected C...

The Honda ZR-V, positioned between the HR-V and CR-V in the C-segment, introduces notable features in its interior design. The Honda ZR-V made its debut in the UK on July 4, with three variants on offer: Elegance, Sport, and Advance. The cabin is enveloped in soft-touch materials and features a wide upper dash panel. The infotainment system features a nine-inch touchscreen with navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while Advance grades add a head-up display. The wraparound low-set da...

Automotive seats are becoming more complex as automakers intensify focus on improving safety, comfort, and wellbeing of drivers and other passengers inside their vehicle. A modern seat in a vehicle, depending upon its price positioning, can easily have more than 100 components. This number is set to rise further as seat manufacturers add more functions and features in seats for the next-generation connected, automated electric vehicles (EVs).   Most automakers have already outsourced ass...

The second and latest generation Nissan Juke retains the motorbike references from the original model, featuring a glossy finish on the center-tunnel top reminiscent of a fuel tank and a cowl above the dials. We take a closer look at the rest of the cabin. Inside story The cabin is predominantly clad in padded materials with metallic knurled knobs, providing a well-crafted feel. Bright color schemes are available for the seats, dash and door panels, offering a departure from the standard b...

As we approach the end of 2023, our “Talking Heads” series delves into conversations with the practice leads at AutoTechInsight. The aim is to explore the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their respective domains. The automotive industry faces challenges and opportunities shaped by the pandemic and technological advancements. Electrification is a key factor impacting new car prices, especially in Europe. A potential price war among EVs in mainland China is a concern. Afforda...

Over the years, quality and functionality of vehicle interiors have emerged as key considerations among new vehicle buyers globally. Automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) see this as an opportunity to improve customers’ ownership experience and brand loyalty. This is driving adoption of better interior trim quality even in price-sensitive, volume-segment cars.      Automakers consider interior trim quality in their new vehicles from an early stage of develop...

The Genesis GV80 is a large crossover offering seating options for five, six or seven passengers. Designed by Sangyup Lee, formerly of Bentley, it boasts a stylish exterior with a distinctive G-matrix front grill, split LED headlights and elegant curves. Inside story The interior exudes elegance with its rich finishes, including wood trim, metal accents, attention to detail and well-executed assembly. The dashboard's wide-spanning display maintains an upscale and uncluttered look. The spac...

Kia’s second-generation Niro was launched in July 2022. We take a closer look at this eye-catching model. Available in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and pure electric vehicle (PEV) variants, the second-generation Niro comes in three model grades: 2, 3, and 4. It is assembled at the carmaker’s Kwaseong factory in Asan Bay, South Korea. Inside story At the center of the cabin sits an integrated curved twin-screen display with a touchscreen. Lik...

The IAA Mobility is an annual auto show held in Munich, Germany, encompassing various automotive trends and technologies. Held at the Munich Exhibition Center from September 5 to September 10, the show attracted more than 500,000 people from all over the world. This edition saw more than 300 world premieres and innovations from about 750 exhibitors. While autonomous and electric mobility inevitably grabbed the attention, there were numerous interesting developments covering the vehicle’s inter...

The Genesis G70 has a plethora of infotainment and connectivity features. We take a closer look inside this luxury saloon. Genesis is a Hyundai Motor premium brand from South Korea, emerging as a challenger to established rivals like BMW, Mercedes, and Audi. The G70 is a facelifted version of a car that has been on sale in the Far East and North America since 2017. In brief The G70 interior is cloaked with soft-touch materials, stitched details and aluminum inserts. The seats come ...

Honda says its eleventh-generation Civic stays true to the original concept of “a car for all people.” We take a closer look inside this popular family hatchback. In brief The Civic's interior features a clean design with high-quality materials, giving it a premium feel. It is available in three trims: Elegance, Sport and Advance. While lower-spec models have a half-analog display, top-spec versions offer a digital driver's display. All models come with a nine-inch touchscreen, wi...

MG, known for sports cars, is targeting mainstream success with the MG HS midsize sport utility vehicle (SUV). We take a closer look inside. In brief The HS interior is wrapped with soft-touch materials, contrasting colors and metallic accents. It features tactile elements like piano key buttons, turbine-design air vents and soft-touch door cards. Rear-seat passengers enjoy reclining seats, twin air vents, two USB ports, and a fold-out armrest with storage space and cup holders. In 2023, t...

The Mercedes Benz CLE is produced at the company’s plant Bremen  in Germany. The vehicle is expected to peak at more than 63833  in 2024, according to S&P Global Mobility forecast.

The light-vehicle sunroof market has seen robust growth over the past five to eight years. Rising consumer aspiration to have this feature in their vehicles, especially in key markets of mainland China, Europe and North America, has been the biggest growth driver. The trend is expected to continue in the current era of electromobility. However, vehicle electrification is leading to a clear shift in the demand mix of sunroofs. Automakers are preferring to equip their EVs with fixed panoramic glas...

 The Volkswagen ID3 is produced at  the parent plant in Wolfsburg in Germany. The vehicle is expected to peak at more than 43,000  in 2024, according to S&P Global Mobility forecast.

The mid-life updated Ceed hatchback comes in four trim levels with various upholstery options, touchscreens and connectivity features. We take a closer look inside. In brief The Ceed, designed by Kia's European teams in Frankfurt, is produced in Slovakia alongside the Sportage and constitutes about a quarter of Kia's European sales. Built on the K2 platform, it is wider and lower than its predecessor, with improved rear space and cargo capacity. The interior features a modern design with a...

Once settled in the eight-way, power-adjustable, vegan leather-upholstered and heated driver seat of the all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E, the focal point becomes a 15-inch portrait-orientated touchscreen. We take a closer look inside to see what else appeals. Inside story The minimalist dash means adjusting almost everything via the huge touchscreen. Other interior features include heated and powered driver and front passenger seats, a heated steering wheel, a heated windscreen, a wi...

Eco-friendly materials, such as recycled PET bottles, plant-based yarns and natural wool, are some of the stand-out interior features of the all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 5. Other notable features of the crossover utility vehicle (CUV) include a flat floor, housing the batteries, provides extra legroom and spaciousness. The long wheelbase enabled a 'Living Space' theme with the movable Universal Island center console, allowing more freedom of movement for all occupants. The front seats are po...

Globally, automakers are increasingly offering features that enhance comfort of occupants in vehicles. These include seats with lumbar support and massage systems, as well as heated, ventilated, and climate-controlled seats. While providing comfort is among the key focus areas, many original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are now offering solutions aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of the driver and passengers. This insight offers a preview of some of the latest innovations in this rea...

Mercedes Benz E-class : The Mercedes Benz E-class  is produced at Sindelfingen plant in Germany. The new, W214-generation model is expected to peak at more than 134204  in 2024, according to S&P Global Mobility forecast.

The face-lifted Kia XCeed features new LED headlamps, a revised grille and front bumper. We take a look inside to see what is new. Infotainment The XCeed is available in “2,” “3,” “GT-Line” and “GT-Line S” grades. A 10.25-inch touchscreen on the GT-Line, 3 and GT-Line S versions feature Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality as standard. The entry-level 2features an 8-inch touchscreen including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A digital 12.3-inch instrum...

It has been more than four decades since the Volkswagen Golf – Europe’s best-selling new car – made its debut. We take a closer look at this ever-popular model. Infotainment and connectivity The eighth-generation Golf features a central 10-inch touchscreen with web connectivity, complemented by a second driver display located on the opposite side of the steering wheel. These displays, along with a reconfigurable instrumentation cluster, effectively present key driver information...

The Volkswagen  ID.7 is produced at the company’s plant Emden in Germany. The vehicle is expected to peak at more than 49967  in 2024, according to S&P Global Mobility forecast.

With the rapid rates of electric vehicle adoption continuing in major markets globally, legislative agendas supporting aggressive transitions to phase out mainstream internal combustion engine (ICE) usage, and supply chains gearing up accordingly, the narrative around electrification technology is shifting toward one of maturity and scale. Click the link above to download the full article.

Honda has refreshed its fourth-generation Jazz and Jazz Crosstar model range, adding some exterior and interior refinements on all grades. Continuing our series of interior reviews, we explore some technologies and materials for this popular supermini. What’s new? Interior upgrades include new surface materials and seat options. In Elegance and Advance grades, the black interior trim has been lightly revised and updated for 2023 through the application of new seat fabric with a fresh des...

Floor consoles are an integral part of the vehicle. Earlier, the design element comprised of an enclosure for the gear shifter and hand brake or an additional feature of storage bins with armrests that can slide. However, floor consoles have moved beyond just the basic functionalities as the vehicle interior becomes more passenger friendly. Market scope S&P Global Mobility expects global demand for floor consoles across all technologies to rise from around 79 million units currently to...

Automakers are rapidly making sustainability an integral part of doing business as they aim to become carbon neutral much before the global deadline of 2050. OEMs are striving to reduce CO2 emissions from the entire life cycle of a vehicle — from raw materials to manufacturing process to its ultimate disposal. In doing so, vehicle manufacturers are expecting their partners, including suppliers and dealers, to imbibe sustainability into their operations. Automotive suppliers are expected to ...

The fifth-generation Lexus RX has a plethora of infotainment and connectivity features. We take a closer look inside this luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV). Infotainment The RX’s minimalist dashboard sweeps across the cockpit in a clean, continuous form. By implementing an e-latch electronic door-release system, the door handles have been repositioned lower, allowing for an extended instrument panel. Lexus has strategically placed the 14-inch touchscreen and physical buttons for...

TheLincoln Nautilus produced at the Changan Hangzhou plant in China. The  SUV is expected to peak at more than 34702 in 2024, according to S&P Global Mobility forecast.

The Lexus UX is the carmaker’s most compact crossover model yet. We look inside this Urban Explorer. Cockpit The UX is available in three equipment grades: UX, F Sport and Takumi. The seats feature a flat cushion and raised side sections that provide support to the hips and maintain body stability. The front seats can be manually adjusted in six ways, while the F Sport and Takumi models offer eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The Takumi model also includes adjustable lumbar supp...

Launched in 2022, the fifth-generation Kia Sportage was designed and developed for the European market. Continuing our series of interior reviews, we take a closer look inside. What is the difference between the European Sportage and the version sold in other markets around the world? A spokesperson for the Korean carmaker said: “When deciding the scope of the design for the Sportage, it was decided that Europe, and indeed the UK, deserved an SUV honed for buyers’ specific tastes. This al...

Since Volkswagen launched its Arteon in 2017, a shooting brake body style and plug-in hybrid and performance R variants have appeared. Continuing our series of interior reviews, we explore some technologies and materials for this crisp-looking model to see how it measures up in the executive pool. Both sports and touring vehicles share the same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine (EA888 evo4) introduced in the Golf R. Like the Golf R, the Arteon R features an all-wheel-drive sys...

The Polestar 3  is produced at company’s production centre is located in Chengdu, China. The vehicle is expected to peak at more than 13823 in 2024, according to S&P Global Mobility forecast.

With consumer sentiment leaning toward using nonanimal byproducts, automakers and suppliers are looking to use vegan leathers, often known as faux leathers. However, not all vegan leathers are harmless, especially in their development processes. Polyurethane (PU) is harmful in the open, with processing and disposal causing diseases including cancer. It also requires large amounts of fuel and water, and it leads to the release of toxic chemicals. Automotive companies are now looking at recycled v...