Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, also known as TDS. Our mission is to collect the latest automotive news from around the world, presenting it in a concise format that allows you to catch up on what truly matters in the industry each weekday.
Today, we bring you the latest highlights from the automotive scene.
In significant news, the 2026 Cadillac Celestiq has seen a substantial price increase, escalating from $340,000 to over $400,000 before customization. This price hike comes with the introduction of previously optional features now included as standard.
On the electric vehicle front, Scout CEO Scott Keogh disclosed that the Volkswagen-owned automaker has racked up an impressive 130,000 reservations, with more than 80% opting for the extended-range gas model. Keogh emphasized the focus on user-friendly design, ensuring that Scout models will include traditional buttons and knobs, moving away from complex touchscreen interfaces.
However, not all news is bright; Kia has announced a delay for the EV4 in the U.S. market “until further notice,” a decision influenced by changing marketing landscapes.
Hyundai is also making waves, unveiling an adventurous Ioniq 9 concept that is set to make its debut at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas next week. This model hints at a possible future XRT version that could offer enhanced off-road capabilities.
In safety-related news, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating 583,600 Honda vehicles, including 142,600 models of the 2023-24 Honda Pilot, over concerns regarding seat belt warning malfunctions. Additionally, 441,000 Honda Odyssey vehicles from 2018 to 2022 are also under scrutiny for potential issues with unexpected airbag deployment while in motion.
Volvo’s CEO has confirmed that the automaker intends to retain plug-in hybrids in its portfolio until the end of the 2030s, indicating a continued commitment to diverse eco-friendly options.
Lastly, Ford has extended its recalls to cover over 400,000 vehicles due to various concerns, including issues with moonroof window deflectors, windshields, and a loose driver’s seat bolt, as well as problems affecting defrosting and defogging capabilities.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, stay tuned for more updates and insights. Your feedback is valued; feel free to share your thoughts on our formatting at tips@thedrive.com.