Car News

UPDATE: Volvo's performance spin-off, Polestar, has released new images of its Precept concept. We've added the new images here, but the article is otherwise unchanged. February 26: Polestar, the all-electric performance brand spun out of the Volvo business in 2017, has unveiled a first look at its next-generation design and technology plans: the Precept concept.

The 2020 Detroit motor show – which had been moved from the US winter in January to summer in June from this year – has been cancelled so the massive exhibition centre can be used as a field hospital. Health authorities in Detroit will bring 900 hospital beds into what was going to be the motor show display area to help manage the expected increased in patients being treated for COVID-19.

Joining Volkswagen's Golf GTE in the group's performance-oriented hybrid stable, the new 2020 Skoda Octavia RS iV has been unveiled today. Available in liftback sedan and wagon styles, the RS iV models will join the regular new Octavia line-up, which will include conventional petrol-powered RS models. The latter, in 180kW form, is the only performance option slated for Australia, with the local Volkswagen arm prioritising full-electric greenery over hybrid options.

Porsche has peeled back the covers on its flagship 911 – motorsport versions notwithstanding – introducing the 911 Turbo S as part of an online event in lieu of its cancelled Geneva motor show debut. Joining the 'lesser' Carrera versions as part of the 911's 992-generation, the Turbo S introduces changes and upgrades seen throughout the range, although the surprise was spoiled somewhat by earlier leaked images. As before, both coupe and convertible body styles will be offered.

Mercedes-Benz has announced the upcoming European arrival of three new plug-in hybrid offerings under its EQ Power brand, revealing its CLA Coupe, CLA Shooting Brake and GLA will be available with the new powertrain option – but not in Australia. The German marque debuted the new members of its compact-car family online on Tuesday morning AEDT, presumably in lieu of an in-person debut at the now-cancelled 2020 Geneva Motor Show.