Car Design News takes a look at the news that may have gone under the radar this week, including the latest from Nissan, Land Rover and Volkswagen
Original Defender gets lighting update
The original Defender lighting upgrade by lighting manufacturer Glohh sees demand outpacing supply twice over.
Adopted in 105 countries, including the UK, USA, Australia, South Africa and Mexico, the plug-and-play system has been praised for its design and seamless fit.
Following the success of the taillights, a front lighting unit was introduced last year, and a tailored NAS specification is in development for US owners and limited-edition models.
More information here.
For all things lighting, check out ten strange and wonderful lighting designs and the key trends influencing automotive lighting design.
New Nissan Micra EV
Due to arrive in January 2026, this funky new Nissan Micra EV has up to 253 miles range and is available with two battery sizes.
Designed at Nissan Design Europe in London, the Micra has had a revamp with pronounced wheel arches and an accented lower lip. The waistline of the Micra is identified by what its designers call the ‘ice cream scoop’ which is an indent from the front to the rear of the back passenger door in the shape of a scoop out of an ice cream tub.
18-inch wheels and, of course, the iconic headlamps make a good first impression – with the lights even performing a ‘welcome wink’ when the car is unlocked; 14 exterior colour combinations are available – including rebel red and authentic blue.
Inside, a design language of ‘simple, understated elegance’ has been incorporated with a three-spoke steering wheel, 10.1 inch screen display behind the wheel and a 10.1 inch touchscreen display covering the width of the dash and angled towards the driver.
Full release here.
Special edition VW SUVs
Volkswagen has unveiled two new special-edition T Roc SUVs – the Style Design and Black Edition Plus. Both are available to order from 22 May.
These replace the previous Style, R-Line and Black Edition trims with more extra features included as standard.
Design highlights include 19-inch Misano black alloys, a contrasting black roof, electric tailgate and panoramic sunroof. The Style Design also adds black mirror caps and IQ Light matrix headlights.
Full release here.
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