Six highlights from the Brussels Motor Show 2026, covering the biggest new car launches, electric vehicle news, performance EVs and the key trends shaping the future of the European car market.

The new Tesla Model Y Standard is Tesla’s most affordable SUV yet, arriving in the UK at just under £42,000. While it trims back a few features to hit that price point, the fundamentals remain intact: excellent efficiency, strong real-world range, outstanding software, and the best phone app in the business. Aside from a more basic suspension setup and a visibly cheaper frunk, it still feels very much like a Model Y — and for many buyers, this stripped-back version may actually be the smartest choice in the range.

Kia UK has announced that the EV4 and PV5 Passenger are the brand’s first models to qualify for the UK Government’s Electric Car Grant. Eligible EV4 ‘Air’ and PV5 Passenger ‘Essential’ and ‘Plus’ grades now benefit from £1,500 off the on-the-road price, making the switch to electric driving more accessible than ever. With impressive driving ranges, advanced technology, and Kia’s industry-leading warranty, these latest electric models underline Kia’s commitment to affordable, sustainable mobility.

The Chery Tiggo 9 is a seven-seat plug-in hybrid SUV designed for UK families who want comfort, performance and genuine electric-only driving. With up to 91 miles of electric range, over 420 bhp, and a high-spec interior as standard, it delivers a premium driving experience at a price that undercuts many established rivals. Comfortable to drive and extremely well equipped, the Tiggo 9 feels just as refined as the Omoda 9, but adds the flexibility of extra seats for growing families.

As I’ve immersed myself in China’s vibrant automotive scene, one thing is crystal clear: Chery is shaping the future of mobility today. With groundbreaking innovations in software-defined vehicles, solid-state batteries, and advanced safety technologies—including vehicles that withstand 60 mph crash tests—Chery is not just keeping pace; they’re leading the charge. Their global reach, rapid sales growth—two million cars in 2025 alone—and commitment to making life easier and safer with AI-driven robotics and multi-language voice assistants paint a compelling picture. While some messaging may be a little cringey, the underlying message is straightforward: Chery is delivering smarter, more efficient, and more connected cars that appeal to every need—from fun entry-level EVs to luxurious range-toppers. Stay tuned as I dive deeper into what Chery’s brands—CHERY, OMODA, and JAECOO—are bringing to the UK market.

The Omoda 4 was unveiled to the world’s media today in at the CHERY GLOBAL USER SUMMIT 2025 in Wuhu, China. I was lucky enough to have a ringside seat at the launch of this cyber-mecha inspired B-segment crossover. 

IS GAP Insurance actually worth it when buying a new or used car? let’s find out and look at some real world payout examples.