by Hugh Maguire.
With digital media being the order of the day there are those who proclaimed that the motor show was dead. After all people can pretty much see everything related to a new car announcement or model range on-line. However it would seem the motoring public still like to see in person, touch and feel the new cars rather than just view them on an iPad or phone. That was proven very well by the large attendance at the recent Brussels motor show and indeed by the number of manufacturers that were there to showcase their model range. Some 300,000 visitors attended the show and a record number of 64 motoring brands were there to showcase their cars.
There were some new models announced and we take a quick look here at the a few of the new models that will be coming to Ireland.
Mazda unveiled the new CX-6e.
Powered by a 78kWh battery this new mid-sized SUV claims a WLTP range of 484 km and has rapid DC charging. As always we caution on the range claims as no EV we have tested seems to match the WLTP range figures in daily driving.
Inside the new CX6e there is a completely new interior featuring a huge 26 inch touchscreen, multilingual voice recognition and a head up display.
The voice recognition can fulfil the usual commands we have come to expect but Mazda have taken it a step further and now in the CX6e you can command the opening and closing of the windows, or finding your next destination without having to use the touchscreen.
Its 78kWh battery powers an electric motor that drives the rear wheels. Producing some 258 PS of power performance seems quite good. Mazda claim a 0 to 100km/h time of 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 185km/h. If you can find a high power charger they claim a re charge time of 24 minutes from 10 to 80%.
Their on board charger supports 11kW three phase charging via a Type 2 connector for ease of home charging too.
Mazda also showcased a new CX5 with update styling and equipment.
No prices are yet announced for the Irish market.
Opel Showcase the new Astra.
In recognition that the car market still demands combustion engined vehicles like many manufacturers Opel are offering an ICE engine in the new Astra.
Their wide range of drive alternatives for the new Astra now includes an efficient combustion engine to a 48-volt hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, right up to an all-electric version, which now offers even more range than before with up to 454km in accordance with WLTP.
In addition to the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, the Mokka GSE, the fastest battery-electric production Opel and winner of a 2025 Golden Steering Wheel award, was also on show. The new Grandland Electric AWD joins an extended range variant of the new Frontera Electric.
Kia Showcase the new EV2
At 4,060mm long, the new EV2 model combines a compact footprint with strong proportions tailored to urban environments. Vertical daytime running lights, the latest Star Map Signature Light, a striking shoulder line, and robust wheel arches complete the distinctive exterior. Wheel options range from 16 to 19 inches, and a variety of exterior colours are available.
The EV2 is available with two battery options: a 42.2-kWh standard-range battery and a 61.0-kWh long-range battery. The anticipated all-electric driving range reaches up to 317 kilometres for the standard-range version and up to 448 kilometres for the long-range version (WLTP pending). Both versions feature a 400V architecture and deliver rapid DC fast charging. The Standard model completes the process in 29 minutes, while the Long Range version takes about 30 minutes—ensuring quick and convenient charging for every journey. The EV2 also supports both 11 kW and optional 22 kW AC charging.
Production will begin in two phases later this year with standard-range models arriving in Ireland in Spring, followed by long-range and GT-line variants in Autumn. Prices to be announced.
Leapmotor launch three new models.
Leapmotor unveiled three key models that will underpin the next phase of its international expansion: B03X, B05 and the new B10 Hybrid EV.
Model highlights include:
B03X: Unveiled for the first time in Europe, B03X is a compact SUV built on the strengths of the B10, reimagining them in a more agile, city-friendly form. B03X is also the first Leapmotor vehicle developed on an all-new global platform, engineered to meet international standards and deliver optimal everyday usability for drivers.
B05: A sporty, style-driven coupé that blends dynamic performance, advanced technology and refined comfort, designed for individuality with a 67.1 kWh battery for up to 460 km range (WLTP).
B10 Hybrid EV: A new variant of the B10 featuring range-extender (REEV) technology, delivering long distance capability by pairing an 18.8 kWh battery pack with a 1.5L petrol generator to deliver a combined range of 900 km (WLTP).
Leapmotor, is the newest EV brand to arrive on Irish roads. The brand is available across Ireland through Gowan Auto’s established retail network, ensuring accessible sales and after-sales support nationwide.
The compact T03 city car, from €18,950, C10 family SUV, from €38,995, and versatile B10 mid-size SUV, from €32,984 – all prices inclusive of SEAI grant and VRT rebate. Each Leapmotor model is backed by a comprehensive 6‑year/unlimited mileage warranty, 3.9% APR Finance (HP or PCP), and free metallic paint (until 31/03/2026). Details on Irish market introduction, pricing and specifications for future models such as B03X, B05 and B10 Hybrid EV will be confirmed at a later date.
2026 looks set to be a year where we will continue to see new EV’s but also new and very efficient combustion engined petrol powered cars. www.whichnewcar.ie will be there to bring you the very latest in new car news!