February saw the advent of several new models, prior to Ramadan and as is custom these days anyway. Here are 10 you should know about.
Audi A5 and S5
30 years since it was first launched, Audi A4, the best-selling family sedan, takes a final bow but its sport-back and sport counterparts are taking the beacon forward. The latest generation of Audi A5 and S5 is setting standards again with its reimagined sportiness. Equipped with advanced driving technologies, including Audi Drive Select and MHEV Plus (the mild hybrid technology, available in some markets), these models deliver exhilarating performance with robust TFSI engines. The A5 40 TFSI delivers 205 bhp while the S5 generates 368 hp from a potent 3.0L engine.
As expected, they captivate first by their sleek design as exemplified in the bold singleframe grille and sculpted flared wheel arches. The luxuriously crafted interiors feature panoramic glass roofs with switchable transparency and customizable ambient lighting packages that create a refined driving atmosphere. The all-new 2025 Audi A5 and S5 are now available at starting prices of AED 249,900 and AED 359,900 respectively.
BMW iX with M Sport package
BMW iX has established itself as an all-electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), offering a combination of progressive luxury and ‘locally emission-free’ driving pleasure. The new edition also adds a significantly extended WLTP range of 700 kilometers. Innovations in the field of BMW eDrive technology are complemented by design upgrades inside underlining its sporty character.
Available as the BMW iX xDrive45, xDrive60 and M70 xDrive, the range will be in the Middle East region from the second quarter of 2025. iX offers ‘M’ as an option. The M Sport package emphasizes the dynamic character of the vehicle with powerful lines, striking air intakes in front and vertical reflectors at the rear while the M Sport package Pro differentiates the top model with dark M Shadow Line headlights and rear lights.
With electric motors for front and rear axles, the BMW iX features electric all-wheel drive. More power marks every variant – BMW iX xDrive45 is 82 hp more powerful at 408 hp, and quicker with a 0 -100 kmph time that is one second faster at 5.1 seconds. BMW iX xDrive60 gets 21 hp extra – its 544 hp touches 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds.
The M variant delivers 659 hp (40 hp more) and a maximum torque of 1,100 Nm upon activating launch control. The BMW iX M70 xDrive does 0 – 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and can touch a top speed of 250 km/h.
BYD Sealion 7
Sealion from BYD is an SUV designed for those who seek performance, space, and smart mobility. With 523 horsepower, it delivers a sportscar-like driving experience that takes the car to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, yet is capable of achieving a 482 km range. A single motor version good for 308 hp is also available.
At the core of the Sealion 7 is the next-generation e-Platform 3.0 equipped with the world’s fastest mass-produced electric motor, capable of reaching 23,000 rpm, delivering instant power and smooth acceleration. The Sealion enhances safety and situational awareness with an Advanced Driver Assistance System that features 5 radars, 5 cameras and 9 airbags. The range starts at AED 172,900.
Chery TIGGO 9
The premium 7-seat SUV was launched against the background of a spectacular drone show befitting the flagship of Chery’s line up. The Tiggo 9 ambitiously offers a blend of refinement and practicality that is designed to rival established models in the luxury segment.
From the tiger-eye diamond grille in front to sculpted body lines, developed using the Golden Ratio principle, its design ensures both aerodynamic balance and visual appeal. Diamond-stitched leather seating, a 3D-mesh suede dashboard, and TOM wood grain trim contribute to the premium feel, while the Queen’s co-pilot seat with massage function exemplifies overall VIP comfort.
Powered by a 261 hp turbocharged inline-four 2.0L engine and intelligent AWD, the drive can be adaptable for all terrains, elevated tech includes 540° HD panoramic cameras, adaptive cruise control, intelligent collision prevention systems and smart connectivity. A Sony 14-speaker surround sound system, with bubble speakers embedded in the seats envelops passengers in a rich, high-fidelity soundscape. Prices start at AED 119,900.
Chevrolet Spark EV
Chevrolet introduced a gamechanger last month when it launched a cool, compact and cute electric car for four that eases the threshold into the electric realm. The Spark EV will perhaps be most noted for its affordable pricing but it is still the last thing about an EV that offers a 50-kW battery good for 101 hp and 80 Nm of torque. Besides claiming a 360 km range, charging is easily managed with 50 km’s worth taking just 10 minutes.
The cabin comes with an 8.8” driver info screen and a 10.25” multimedia screen equipped with a 360-degree camera. Front & side airbags and front & rear sensors highlight safety. The Spark EV is available in two cool colours: blue and yellow. Further, the captivating cult-car design is topped off with a different colour of roof. What highlights the cult-car status is the clever introduction of distinctive getups – retro, sport, adventure and gaming – to suit different tastes. The Chevrolet Spark EV starts at AED 79,900 and the secret of this astonishing pricing could lie in the fact that it is closely related to the Baojun Yep Plus, a collaboration between General Motors and SAIC in China.
Lexus LX600 / 700h
The flagship luxury 7-seater from Lexus, the LX range has now raised the bar by blending electrification with legendary capability. The hybrid model features a tough and powerful 3.5L twin turbo 1MHEV (one motor hybrid) V6 for increased power and efficiency. The 2025 LX series also introduces the all-new ‘Overtrail’ edition, specially designed for fastidious off-road enthusiasts. Across the range, the Lexus Safety System+ in its 3.0 version now comes as standard, including Pre-Crash Safety with Adaptive Cruise Control, enhanced braking power during imminent collisions and innovative security features like fingerprint authentication. Driving support innovations like a low first gear now makes power generously available during low-speed driving, which can be a boon for off-road performance.
With refined Lexus craftsmanship, enhanced safety and more efficient driving, the Lexus LX Series is available in the UAE starting at AED 490,000 (including VAT).
Tom Lee, Managing Director of MG Motor Middle East and Hisham El Sahn, General Manager of Inter Emirates Motors.
MG HS new generation
Recipient of the Middle East Car of the Year award, MG HS was more like a flagship and beacon to the evolving new image of MG. The sporty, 5-seat SUV has been a striking blend of performance, style and unexpected refinement.
The new generation continues with the interior luxury in features like electric leather seats with memory, while dual 12.3-inch HD screens highlight the progress in the cabin. Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance System lives up to Euro N-Cap standards, and so does a cabin with up to 6 airbags and a 360-degree HD camera.
The new generation MG HS offers two engine choices – 1.5 L Turbo delivering 173 hp mated to a 7-speed gearbox and a 2.0L Turbo producing 231 hp mated to a 9-speed auto. Prices start at AED 84,500 excluding VAT.
Rolls-Royce Spectre Black Badge
“Black Badge Spectre is one of the clearest statements of power and purpose we have ever made. It has been created in the image of our boldest and most audacious clients, with meticulous attention to detail.” The statement from Rolls-Royce unmistakably defines the Spectre in its Black Badge version.
This is the most powerful Rolls-Royce in history, inspired by the spirit of Black Badge clients and informed by hundreds of thousands of miles of their anonymised driving data. The new Infinity Mode changes the driving character and summons 659 hp, effortlessly delivered, while the Spirited Mode unlocks 1075 Nm of torque.
Black Badge aesthetic is expressed in a more visceral experience – coloured canvas behind illuminated Pantheon Grille, new Vapour Violet colour inspired by the neon lights of the eighties’ and nineties’ club culture, illuminated Black Badge treadplates and so on. It embodies Rolls-Royce’s formidable alter ego, created for clients who fearlessly defy convention.
Skoda Kodiaq
Skoda has launched the new Kodiaq for those seeking a versatile SUV in two trim options. Kodiaq Selection designed for a balanced driving experience, featuring LED front lights, fabric seats, keyless entry and a host of safety systems, including airbags for driver and passenger, tyre pressure monitoring and Lane Keep Assist. Kodiaq Sportline offers a more dynamic look and feel: 20-inch alloy wheels, leather and Alcantara sport seats, a panoramic sunroof, and premium ambient lighting.
The Kodiaq comes with two engine choices, both paired with a DSG automatic transmission for a smooth and responsive driving experience. The 1.4 TSI delivers 150 hp with standard front-wheel drive while the 2.0 TSI delivers 190 hp with all-wheel drive as standard.
Innovative connectivity features that deserve special mention include the Škoda Phone Box with two wireless chargers equipped with a cooling function. Five USB-C ports and four 45W fast-charging ports are other useful, contemporary specs. Why, even a fifth 15W USB-C port is discreetly integrated into the rear-view mirror facilitating an easy option for dash cams! Škoda Kodiaq begins at AED 144,000 including VAT.
