Top Stories
First Drive: 2026 Toyota C-HR
Few major automakers have been more reluctant to embrace the shift to EVs. So it was a surprise to learn that Toyota will bring three new all-electric models to market this year – even while giving the original bZ4X both a new name and an upgraded powertrain. That system is shared with the smaller 2026 Toyota C-HR, it turns out, and transforms it into a sporty, fun-to-drive – and reasonably affordable package. Here’s the Headlight,News review.
Tesla Backs Down on Autopilot, Will be Able to Keep Selling EVs in California
Facing the prospect of being banned from the largest EV market in the U.S., Tesla has stopped using the name, Autopilot, on the vehicles it sells in California. It’s also updated the name of its more advanced Full Self-Driving system.
Tesla Rolls Out its First Cybercab with No Steering Wheel – But Who Will Buy One?
Tesla this week rolled out the first version of its Cybercab with no steering wheel. And CEO Musk indicated it will be available for $30,000. But who will buy one – especially with mounting concerns about the safety of Tesla’s self-driving vehicle technology blamed for a growing number of Cybercab crashes?
Polestar Plans its “Largest Model Offensive in History” With 4 New Products Coming
Has Polestar finally turned the corner? The Swedish automaker, spun off by Volvo nearly a decade ago, had a very good year in 2025 – and is looking to keep the momentum going as it prepares to roll out a series of new products, starting later this year with the debut of the Polestar 5.
New Vehicles Get More Affordable in January
New data shows new vehicles were more affordable in January, despite lower incentives offered by automakers. Falling interest rates helped to push new vehicles to their most affordable point in nearly a year. Get details at Headlight.News.
Podcasts
Get the Latest Auto News on the HEADLIGHT.NEWS Podcast
Headlight News Podcast for the Week of 2-16-26
The Headlight News Podcast for the Week of 2-16-26 covers big Ford losses, sliding EV sales, the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV, President Trump pushing to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, plus we review the 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus and look back at this Week in Auto History. Give us a listen.
Headlight News Podcast for the Week of 2-9-26
On this week’s Headlight News podcast, we cover the big hit to Stellantis’ earnings, Toyota’s changes at the top as well as its new EV, plus the decline of new car sales last month. We also review the 2026 Honda Prelude and more. Give us a listen!
Headlight.News Podcast for the Week of 2-2-26
This week’s Headlight News podcast chronicles the fall of GM and Tesla earnings, Toyota setting a new sales record, Mercedes showing its new S-Class, automakers not advertising during the Super Bowl this year. Give us a listen and tell us what you think.
Headlight News Podcast for the Week of 1-26-26
On this week’s Headlight News podcast, we cover the influence China is having on the U.S. automotive market, declining Cybertruck demand and sales, Mercedes equipping its 2027 E-Class with heated seatbelts and more. Check it out at Headlight.News.
Latest Reviews
First Drive: 2026 Toyota C-HR
Few major automakers have been more reluctant to embrace the shift to EVs. So it was a surprise to learn that Toyota will bring three new all-electric models to market this year – even while giving the original bZ4X both a new name and an upgraded powertrain. That system is shared with the smaller 2026 Toyota C-HR, it turns out, and transforms it into a sporty, fun-to-drive – and reasonably affordable package. Here’s the Headlight,News review.
A Week With: 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus
Mazda made a big splash a few years ago with the debut of the three-row CX-90. The ute elevated the company’s profile within the “near luxury” segment. The 2026 Mazda CX-90 Turbo S Premium Plus provides what you expect from a flagship: looks, performance, and style. With Mazda, you get all that at a mainstream price. Get more details about the CX-90 at Headlight.News.
Toyota Bucks the EV Pullback with All-Electric Highlander
While much of the industry may be paring back their EV plans, Toyota is moving in a very different direction, on Tuesday evening pulling the wraps off the latest entry into its line-up an all-electric 3-row SUV. Headlight.News checks out the 2027 Toyota Highlander EV.
A Week With: 2026 Toyota Corolla Hybrid SE AWD
Toyota is once again king of the world when it comes to new vehicle sales, and one of the reasons why it’s the company’s best-selling vehicle of all time: the Corolla. Once simple, affordable transportation, today’s Corolla comes in multiple variations, including a hybrid. We spent a week with the 2026 Toyota Corolla Hybrid SE with all-wheel drive (AWD) and we have thoughts. Check out the review at Headlight.News.
Consumer Reports Names its Top 10 Picks – and They’re All Electrified
Consumer Reports released its annual Top 10 Picks in New Cars, Trucks and SUVs and potential buyers might notice a theme running through them, all of the choices either a hybrid – or available as one – or an EV. Separately, the non-profit announced its first-ever “Safety Verdict,” ranking 29 automotive brands on a variety of factors. Who came out on top? Some surprises here, as well, reports Headlight.News.