This Week in the Auto Industry (Oct. 27-31)
- Avery Zimmerman
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
The Grand Cherokee gets a major powertrain upgrade for 2026 with the debut of the 2.0-liter Hurricane 4 Turbo engine, delivering 324 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The new model will also get a larger 12.3-inch infotainment system, refined styling, and a simplified three-trim lineup.
Mercedes-Benz Gives a Preview of the Next Sprinter
Mercedes-Benz unveiled "THE BOuLDER," a sculpture carved from rock that previews the next-generation Sprinter. The 2026 model will ride on a new VAN architecture supporting both electric and combustion powertrains and feature the automaker's latest MB.OS operating system, which allows for over-the-air updates and gives customers the ability to integrate their own apps into the infotainment screen.
Stellantis announced this week that it will collaborate with Nvidia, Foxconn, and Uber to launch its own robotaxi service. Stellantis will supply the AV-ready vehicles (production is slated for 2028), Nvidia and Foxconn will power the autonomous tech, and Uber will deploy the robotaxis, starting with 5,000 vehicles in the U.S.
Toyota Unveils Next-Gen Corolla Concept
Toyota revealed the new Corolla Concept at the Japan Mobility Show. My favorite part? The shifter is a tiny Corolla!
Mazda's New Vision X-Coupe and X-Compact Concepts
Mazda unveiled two new concept cars at the show: the Vision X-Coupe and Vision X-Compact (the X is pronounced "cross"). The coupe is a plug-in hybrid that uses carbon-neutral fuel from microalgae and Mazda's CO2 capture tech to actually reduce atmospheric CO2 the more it drives. Mazda says the Vision X-Compact, on the other hand, is "designed to deepen the bond between people and cars through the fusion of a human sensory digital model and empathetic AI. Acting like a close companion, it's capable of engaging in natural conversation and suggesting destinations, helping expand the driver's world."
Mitsubishi Debuts Off-Road PHEV
Also in Tokyo, Mitsubishi showed off a quad-motor PHEV SUV concept paired with a matching camper trailer complete with a shower and kitchen powered by the vehicle's high-voltage battery. This one, too, has an "AI Co-Driver" which is supposed to be able to help the driver explore by suggesting places to go based on their lifestyle.
Lexus Shows Off a Six-Wheel Van and Other Concepts
Lexus presented four concepts of the Lexus LS at the Japan Mobility Show: a six-wheeled, three-row van; a single-occupant self-driving shuttlepod; an SUV with a coupe-like roofline; and a sports car.
Three themes dominated this week: modular platforms (Mercedes), strategic partnerships (Stellantis), and AI companionship (Mazda, Mitsubishi). While the tech is compelling, consumer adoption will hinge on storytelling that makes these innovations feel necessary, not gimmicky. The brands that crack why this matters to daily life — not just what the tech does — will lead the next decade. Want our team's take on your product launch or positioning strategy? Reach out about PULSE or our custom advisory or strategic communications services.