Toyota committed to invest another $10 billion in the United States, as negotiations on a new U.S.-Japan trade deal moved forward — prompting Pres. Donald Trump to tell troops stationed in Japan, “Go out and buy a Toyota.” In an exclusive report, Headlight.News reports Toyota also is looking for ways to boost U.S. auto exports to Japan.
Toyota’s Lexus division proved Japan could compete with the best of the Western luxury brands. But can Toyota take things even further upmarket? The industry giant is determined to give it a try, officially pulling the wraps off the new Century Coupe concept at the Japan Mobility Show. Get details at Headlight.News.
When you’ve got one of America’s best-selling product lines you can’t risk resting on your laurels. So, Toyota has pulled out the stops with the debut of the sixth-generation RAV4. It gets not only a new look and an updated array of technology and comfort features but a first-ever GR Sport package. The off-road Woodland package also becomes more capable. Buyers meanwhile, get a choice of either a conventional or plug-in hybrid drivetrain. Headlight.News has this first review.
Three years after dropping the original FJ Cruiser, Toyota signaled it’s heading back to production, this time dubbed the Land Cruiser FJ. A smaller version of the Land Cruiser that staged its own return in 2024 after a three-year absence, the new off-roader will make its debut at the Japan Mobility Show next week. Here’s more from Headlight.News.
Volkswagen delivered an all-new version of its compact Tiguan SUV earlier this year, but it was saving the best for last, at least for those looking for some serious performance. The 2026 VW Tiguan SEL R-Line Turbo delivers a surprising 67 hp over the rest of the line-up, while also packing in an assortment of upscale features. Headlight.News has this review.
Toyota will show off a new super-premium luxury car concept during the Tokyo Motor Show later this month. But don’t expect to see it land in Toyota showrooms. Badged a “Century” model, it will signal the launch of an all-new brand rising above the automaker’s current Lexus division to take on some of the world’s most exclusive marques, including Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Headlight.News has more.
General Motors has ended a program aimed at using hydrogen fuel-cell technology as an alternative to battery power, in the process scrapping plans for a $55 million factory in Detroit. The automaker will continue producing fuel-cell stacks for use in stationary applications, however. More from Headlight.News.
Few vehicles enjoy the loyalty and fervor that the Toyota 4Runner does. And when Toyota rolled out the sixth-generation model, the expectations were high. Find out if they were met in the Headlight.News review of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro.
Ferrari on Thursday revealed details about its first battery-powered model, the Elettrica. But the Italian automaker is delaying a second EV. And it’s not alone. Ford has scrapped several all-electric models, while Nissan pulled the plug on the 2026 Ariya. Acura just ended production of the ZDX and Stellantis has abandoned the all-electric Ram REV. Those are among a growing list of planned EVs that no longer will make it into production — or will be substantially delayed. Here are some of the others.
The Kia Soul, a boxy little crossover made popular by a series of commercials featuring dancing hamsters, will go out of production later this month, ending a 16-year run due to declining global sales. Headlight.News has more.
Tariffs enacted by Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump effectively closed the door on auto imports from China – only a few products now entering the U.S. But, despite the current hefty tariffs, observers expect that the Trump administration will soon open the American market up to Chinese products, while also encouraging manufacturers like BYD and Geely to set up U.S. manufacturing operations. While American motorists would likely welcome vehicles like the $20,000 BYD Dolphin, this could pose an “existential threat” to traditional automakers, reports Headlight.News.
Strong sales by the Jeep and Ram brands helped Stellantis reverse its long sales slide during the third quarter, even as Volkswagen faltered in the face of a challenging economy. While U.S. auto sales are running stronger than expected, analysts still worry about the impact of tariffs and the federal government shutdown in the months ahead.