Car design round-up: Kia Vision Meta Turismo, Alpine teaser and Tokyo auction top picks

China-exclusive AUDI E7X exterior revealed

The electric SUV developed with SAIC for the Chinese market is the second production model from Audi’s China-exclusive sister marque.

The design rings true to the AUDI E SUV concept, with clean surfaces and light graphics at the front and rear. This light signature features digital Matrix LED headlights that are vertically arranged in a black wrap-around loop. What’s most evident is the departure of the four-ring symbol that the main brand is known for.

Full release here.

Kia unveils concept car

Kia has revealed the Vision Meta Turismo, a concept sports sedan that explores a futuristic, digitally influenced approach to performance-oriented design. 

The exterior features a pronounced cab-forward silhouette with low, wide proportions, combining fluid body surfaces with geometric structural elements. A full glass canopy emphasises openness while exposing key structural components. 

Inside, the cabin is divided into a focused driver cockpit and a more relaxed passenger zone with warm materials, calm colours, and soft lighting. Digital interfaces and adaptive seating configurations support multiple driving modes – Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer – each intended to alter the vehicle’s atmosphere and interaction.

Full release here. 

Alpine teases third-generation A110

In a video celebrating the brand’s 70th anniversary, Alpine CEO Philippe Krief states: “In the first six months of 2026 we will share some really exciting news,” referring to the A110.

The video then shows a short clip of the third-gen A110 on a snowy test track; we look forward to seeing the full design details next year.

Full release here.

Mercedes-Benz set to unveil electric VLE in March 2026

The electric model is a crossover between a limousine and a multi-purpose vehicle, offering up to eight seats. The carmaker says it “brings together the best of two worlds.”

One teaser image of the lighting signature has been released, with the front headlights featuring two Mercedes-Benz logos side by side against a backdrop of what appears to be a bronze-coloured body.

More details are expected closer to the March premiere in Stuttgart. 

Full release here.

Tokyo Auto Saloon BH Auction line-up revealed

Editor’s pick: Freddie Holmes

1999 Tommykaira R-Z Nissan Skyline GT-R V-spec

A mint showing of an ultra-rare version of an already rare car. This tuned R34 sports muscled fenders, forged magnesium rims and numerous Tommykaira emblems inside and out. Our favourite touch is the gearknob which has been engraved with the word ‘craftsmanship’. 

1963 Chevrolet Corvair Greenbrier

Patina, chrome-work and quirky styling, this minivan stood out to us for obvious reasons. Who doesn’t love a bit of Americana? The rear-engine setup allows the driver to sit directly over the front axle, with bench seating front and rear. Take a look at the lamps at front and rear: torpedo-shaped tail lamps contrast with the cute ‘eyes’ up front. With a guide price of 1.5 million yen (£7,128) it will not break the bank as some other listings will. 

1968 Honda S800 M Coupe

Rare Alpinas and Ferraris are obvious inclusions, and we were tempted to highlight the mint Jaguar XJS V12 on show. But it was the plucky Honda coupe that felt more fitting for this Tokyo auction. This example was in fact delivered to Honda Belgium, and might reasonably be considered Japan’s answer to the MGB GT. Incredible stance and proportions, and just check out the width of that rear track. Just ace. 

CDN is not on commission for highlighting these auction listings, but our writers will of course accept any of these three gems as payment in lieu.