Latest news with #Fastback
Auto Express
17-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Watch out Tesla, Kia is on the attack again
If Kia's new EV4 hatchback didn't quite grab your attention when it went on sale earlier this summer then the new EV4 Fastback might do the trick. Pricing and specifications of the longer version of the EV4 are now available and order books are open, too, ahead of first deliveries this autumn. Advertisement - Article continues below While the EV4 hatchback gives Kia a fresh competitor against the likes of the Skoda Elroq and Volkswagen ID.3, the EV4 Fastback morphs into a saloon-style shape, offering an alternative to the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2. Pricing for the EV4 Fastback starts at £40,895 for the GT-Line and £45,395 for the GT-Line S. Those are the only two trim options available on the Fastback, which only comes with an 81.4kWh battery, while the EV4 hatchback can be had with the more basic 'Air' trim and with a smaller 58.3kWh pack from £34,695. Kia claims the EV4 Fastback is the most aerodynamic EV it's ever made, with a drag coefficient of 0.23. However, despite this and using the same size battery that's available in the EV4 hatchback, the EV4 Fastback tops out at 380 miles for both of those trim levels - the hatch can cover up to 388 miles. That's still a little way off the Polestar 2's maximum of 408 miles and the Tesla Model 3 Long Range's 436 miles. Sitting on the same 400V architecture as the hatch, the Fastback can recharge its 81.4kWh battery from 10 to 80 per cent in 29 minutes when using a 350kW fast charger. An 11kW AC charger will see the same top up take five hours and 20 minutes. Advertisement - Article continues below Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below As with the hatch, the Fastback gets a single front-mounted electric motor with 201bhp and 283Nm of torque, which is enough to get it from 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds. That's a little slower than the hatch's 7.7-second time for the benchmark sprint, although the fastest model is the lighter EV4 hatchback with a larger 58.3kWh battery, which takes 7.4 seconds. Kia hasn't said how much the Fastback weighs, but we expect it to be heavier than the hatch considering its slightly lower range figure and slower acceleration time. Maintaining almost the exact same design as the EV4 concept revealed in late 2023, the Fastback is also 300mm longer than the hatch, with all of that coming from the rear overhang. The roofline is also 5mm lower, giving the Fastback a more rakish stance to go with the sloped rear roof. The latter tapers beyond the heads of the rear passengers, so hopefully interior space isn't impinged by the Fastback's proportions. The Fastback has a 490-litre, beating the hatch's 435-litre capacity. Those numbers don't tell the full the story, however, because the hatchback's more versatile opening area is likely to claw back some practicality points. All Kia EV4s, whether a hatch or Fastback, get the same dash layout, with a 12.3-inch driver's display and 12.3-inch central touchscreen, plus a 5.3-inch panel for climate controls in between. There's also wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four USB-C ports throughout the cabin, automatic air-conditioning, heated front seats, LED lights front and rear, plus a slew of safety features, such as highway driving assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance and rear cross-traffic avoidance. The EV4 Fastback GT-Line comes with 19-inch wheels, 'GT-Line' exterior styling, gloss black on the door mirrors, side sills and wheelarches, tinted rear windows, a two-tone artificial leather interior and a wireless smartphone charger. GT-Line S models add a sunroof, a unique LED headlight signature, heated outer rear seats, heated and ventilated front seats, an electric bootlid, a three-pin plug socket for the interior, a vehicle-to-load adapter, an uprated Harman Kardon sound system, a head-up display, a 360-degree camera and a heat pump. Now you can buy a car through our network of top dealers around the UK. Search for the latest deals… Find a car with the experts New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why The Electric Car Grant is here: Government's new £3,750 EV discount in detail The Electric Car Grant is here: Government's new £3,750 EV discount in detail The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 Electric Car Grant for new EVs sold under £3… Electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake will keep going long after rivals need to stop Electric Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake will keep going long after rivals need to stop The second of Merc's new-era EVs is here in the form of an attractive estate with a huge range
Auto Car
17-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Car
Kia EV4 Fastback goes on sale at £40,895 to rival Tesla Model 3
The Kia EV4 Fastback, the brand's first electric saloon, will arrive in September priced from £40,895. Sold alongside the Europe-made EV4 hatchback, the Fastback is expected to be more of a niche seller in the UK given it has been designed as more of a global model for the Korean firm – similar to the positioning of the Audi's A6 Saloon compared to A6 Saloon. In the UK, the Fastback, to be built in Korea, draws power exclusively from a 81.4kWh battery (compared to the entry £34,695 hatch's 58.3kWh pack). It is the most aerodynamic model Kia has ever made with a drag coefficient of 0.23Cd (thanks in part to active front air flaps), which helps the car achieve up to 380 miles of range from a single charge. Advertisement What's more, its 400V system allows for a 10-80% charge in 31 minutes. Power comes from a 201bhp front motor that can push the car to 62mph from standing in 7.9secs. With those figures and starting price, this positions the Fastback squarely at Tesla's Model 3. It is sold in two trims, GT-Line and the £45,395 GT-Line S. Inside, it is the same layout as the hatch: a 12.3in segments for infotainment and instrumentation, divided by a 5.3in climate panel. Boot space is rated at 490-litres Order books are now open, with deliveries to begin from September.
NZ Autocar
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- NZ Autocar
Fiat draws on Multipla for compact SUV due in 2027
Fiat's forthcoming Panda-based SUV could prove a modern Multipla when it arrives in 2027. Only without the dare-to-be-different looks. The new SUV is one of two models that the Italian is set to launch in the next two years, alongside a raised hatchback. They were previewed by Panda-inspired SUV and Fastback concepts unveiled last year. Both will be under 4.5 metres long and sit on the same Stellantis Smart Car platform as the smaller Grande Panda. The pair will therefore be offered with electric and hybrid powertrains. Fiat has hinted that it won't take the Panda name, despite using its mechanicals. The firm is normally associated with city cars. A move to the Golf-sized segment 'will be a challenge, because we don't have the same legacy with family movers as we do with 500 and Panda. But we do with the Multipla' said Fiat Europe boss, Gaetano Thorel. Then Fiat will have a reasonably full passenger car line-up, ranging from 2.5 to 4.4m. The Multipla was a 4m compact MPV with two rows of three seats. Its styling was divisive and the model was not a commercial success. However, it won praise for its quirky design. The new model will have a more traditional SUV appearance but will maximise space in a small footprint. It will share its platform with Citroën C3 Aircross that can seat seven. The Fastback concept will likely become a crossover that will serve as a spiritual successor to the Tipo. Fiat design boss, François Leboine, said future models would use design cues from the Grande Panda and elsewhere. But he insisted the brand won't fixate on retro designs. 'There is a retro flair on the products, but if you don't know the past, the products still have to work…for a new generation.'
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
ECD Auto Design Unleashes ‘67 Ghost — The First in a New Line of Bespoke Custom Mustangs
This debut Fastback ignites a new era of one-of-one Mustangs — custom-built by ECD, powered by Roush-engineered Small Block Ford V8s, and handcrafted to deliver heritage performance with modern-day Fla., May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ECD Automotive Design (NASDAQ: ECDA), the world's leading builder of reimagined classic Land Rovers and Jaguars, proudly reveals Project '67 Ghost, a fully bespoke 1967 Mustang Fastback — and the first Mustang built entirely in-house by ECD. More than a one-off commission, this vehicle marks the launch of ECD's new Mustang program, offering made-to-order builds across 1965–1970 model years with authentic powertrains, heritage styling, and modern drivability. View images and of Project '67 Ghost Built on the same foundation that has made ECD the global leader in luxury custom restoration, the Mustang program brings the company's signature client-driven, one-of-one experience to a new chapter of American muscle. Each vehicle is handcrafted in Florida through a collaborative design journey — allowing clients to define every detail, from performance to aesthetics. While many restomod builders lean on EV conversions or modern crate engines, ECD has partnered exclusively with Roush Performance to deliver something more meaningful: upgraded Small Block Ford V8s that honor the soul of the original car while elevating reliability and responsiveness. 'This is the beginning of what we're calling a Mustang stampede,' said Scott Wallace, CEO of ECD Automotive Design. ''67 Ghost represents the next evolution of what ECD stands for — one-of-one personalization, authentic powertrains, and best-in-class craftsmanship. Our partnership with Roush lets us preserve the Mustang's identity while enhancing it in ways no one else is doing.' Under the hood, '67 Ghost features a 465-horsepower ROUSH 347 IR V8, purpose-built to balance raw character with everyday usability. The vehicle rides on a Roadster Shop RS Spec chassis, giving it the best of both worlds: responsive handling and confident power, with the comfort and refinement of a modern cruiser. Finished in High Gloss Mineral White with Santorini Black Metallic rally stripes, the exterior draws from classic Mustang lineage, elevated with ECD's precise detailing. Inside, heated Recaro seats in black leather with tan diamond-stitched inserts pair with a brushed aluminum dash, All American gauges, and a Grant Classic steering wheel to deliver both nostalgia and tactile drama. Modern technology is seamlessly integrated, including Apple CarPlay, JBL premium audio, and a remote start. 'We're not chasing trends — we're building timeless machines,' said Elliot Humble, CTO of ECD. 'While others are dropping in off-the-shelf modern drivetrains, we've partnered with Roush to deliver brand-new, performance-built V8s based on the legendary Ford small block architecture. Paired with the RS Spec chassis, the result is a Mustang that's thrilling to drive and remarkably refined — the kind of car you enjoy every day, not just on weekends.' With multiple commissions already in progress — including builds inspired by Shelby GT350s, Boss 427s, and Mach 1 silhouettes — ECD's Mustang program is set to redefine what classic American muscle can be: bold, beautiful, and built entirely around the individual. Vehicle Highlights: '67 Ghost Model: 1967 Mustang Fastback Name: '67 Ghost Engine: 465-HP ROUSH 347 IR Small Block Ford V8 Paint: High Gloss Mineral White with Gloss Santorini Black Metallic Rally Stripes Chassis: Roadster Shop RS Spec with Adjustable RS SV Fox Coilovers Brakes: 11" Drilled & Slotted Rotors, 4-Piston Red Calipers Wheels: 17' Rambler Chrome Wheels on Nitto NT555 Tires Interior: Heated Recaro Seats in Black Leather with Tan Double Diamond Inserts; Sport II Console; Grant Classic Steering Wheel; Brushed Aluminum Dash Technology: Apple CarPlay, JBL Premium Audio with Subwoofer, Remote Start, USB Ports, Automatic Headlights Hood: Vented Hood with Turn Signals About ECD Auto DesignECD, a public company trading under ECDA on the Nasdaq, is a creator of restored luxury vehicles that combines classic beauty with modern performance. Currently, ECD restores Land Rovers Series, Land Rover Series IIA, the Range Rover Classic, Jaguar E-Type, Ford Mustang, Toyota FJ, and highly specialized vehicles from its Boutique Studio. Each vehicle produced by ECD is fully bespoke, a one-off that is designed by the client through an immersive luxury design experience and hand-built from the ground up in 2,200 hours by master-certified Automotive Service Excellence ('ASE') craftsmen. The company was founded in 2013 by three British 'gear heads' whose passion for classic vehicles is the driving force behind exceptionally high standards for quality, custom luxury vehicles. ECD's global headquarters, is a 100,000-square-foot facility located in Kissimmee, Florida that is home to 105 talented and dedicated employees that hold combined 80 ASE and five master level certifications. ECD has an affiliated logistics center in the U.K. where its seven employees work to source and transport 25-year-old work vehicles back to the U.S. for restoration. For more information, visit Media Contact: Kevin KastnerChief Revenue Officerkastnerk@ A photo accompanying this announcement is available at
Auto Express
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Express
It's a giant Panda! New Fiat SUV and Fastback to boost brand's line-up
A chunky SUV and cool 'Fastback' crossover are on the launchpad, as Fiat's new model blitz intensifies. The big one – literally, by Fiat's compact standards – is an SUV nicknamed GigaPanda. A sister car to the 4.4m-long Citroen C3 Aircross, the SUV is likely to offer both five- and seven-seat configurations. Advertisement - Article continues below Launching first, however, is Fiat's Fastback. It will fill the gap left by the Tipo, fleetingly sold in the UK as a budget hatchback to challenge the Ford Focus. But the saloon variant is the big ticket item for Fiat: badged as Egea, it's a strong seller in Algeria and Turkey, where it's also assembled. There's also a coupé-SUV called the Fastback in Brazil. The new model is charged with replacing all these Fiats in one fell swoop – and the UK team is looking into bringing it here. 'Two new cars are coming that will complete Fiat's resurgence,' head of Europe Gaetano Thorel exclusively told Auto Express at the brand's Centro Stile design centre. And they'll both be unveiled in the next 12 months, with the Fastback set for a debut before the end of 2025. The cars will underpin Fiat's bid to transform from local player to global force. The once-mighty small car brand has become a minnow in the UK, with the baby Panda no longer manufactured in right-hand drive and only the 500e city car and 600 mild hybrid and electric SUV in showrooms, alongside their sporty Abarth offshoots. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below Reinforcements are on the way – Fiat engineers have overhauled the 500's electric platform to accommodate a lightly electrified petrol engine and the show-stopping Grande Panda will land in the UK in September. 'Our dealers have had to cross the desert!' continued the colourful Thorel. 'But now they know the desert is over.' Advertisement - Article continues below The Grande Panda's retromodernist design will dictate the look of the new GigaPanda and Fastback, as previewed by a series of 2024 concept cars demonstrating its versatility. 'When we developed Grande Panda we [created] a series of vehicles in a kind of 'Lego' system, where we'll build different vehicles in different sizes that actually use a lot of common components to really reduce their cost,' Fiat head of design François Leboine told Auto Express at the Centro Stile. The Grande Panda's silhouette, front and rear lamp outlines, blocky, rectangular panels and Panda script capture the spirit of the eighties original, while the short overhangs, complex light patterns and vibrant colours bring modernity. Throw in the design team's cheesy but instructive buzzphrases – to make cars 'practicool' and put the fun into functionality – and you have the recipe shaping the GigaPanda and Fastback. The latter has an angular tail crowned with a diagonally slanted rear screen that mimics the windscreen's rake, a key relationship in the Grande Panda's design too, according to Leboine. Overall the Fastback's form resembles the Polestar 2's, a high-riding notchback. Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below The smart money is on Turkish saloon-fans being disappointed as the Agea morphs into a crossover with a tailgate – but delivers more global appeal. 'Today Egea is a saloon. But I think you can have the consumer evolve,' hinted Thorel. Advertisement - Article continues below Under the skin, the new Fiats will use the Stellantis group's low-cost architecture, introduced on the Citroen C3 and underpinning the Grande Panda. 'We will use the 'smart car' platform to propose and produce new vehicles that will be targeting different regions in the world and different customers, sometimes replacing [existing] products or even coming with new products,' said Leboine. That means smart car's full mix of powertrains and EV batteries are on the shelf for the future Fiat family. Citroen is introducing a range-topping 54kWh battery for the C3 Aircross, set to extend the range to around 250 miles. It'll sit alongside the 44kWh pack, good for 188 miles. Expect the GigaPanda to offer both batteries and muster similar ranges. 'We called it GigaPanda to let people understand it's much bigger than Grande Panda, though they're rooted in the same design,' said the 57-year-old European boss. 'Fiat's playground is urban mobility. That to me means from 2.5 metres [the Topolino version of the Citroen Ami] to four-point-something metres.' Skip advert Advertisement - Article continues below Fiat previewed the GigaPanda concept with a striking purple SUV, again with blocky sections, pixel lights and body detailing inspired by the old Lingotto factory's rows of square windows. The long wheelbase frees up space for larger families, though the kicked up windowline will need extending – perhaps in keeping with the blue Panda Camper XXL concept's sideglass – to give third row passengers a view out. Advertisement - Article continues below 'I cannot say we'll do it [exactly] like this,' Leboine told Auto Express in Turin. 'But we've worked on this vehicle family and they are ready. The [Grande] Panda [concept] was a bit exaggerated but all the cues were there. That's more or less what will happen [with GigaPanda].' Fiat has learned its lesson from only offering the 500 as a pure EV. So the mild hybrid 1.2-litre turbo petrol will be fitted, along with a pure petrol (as well as ethanol options, a popular fuel in Brazil). The two cars should be on the market by the end of 2026, with a pick-up set to join the following year. That will replace the Brazilian Strada and also be offered in more markets, including Europe. 'We have a responsibility to get Fiat back to where it belongs in Europe,' said Thorel. 'We want to be a protagonist, which means having a market coverage of at least 50 per cent.' And what is Fiat's market coverage today, we asked? 'Without Grande Panda? I can't tell you, because otherwise you'd ask: 'How have you survived?'!' Did you know you can sell your car through Auto Express ? We'll help you get a great price and find a great deal on a new car, too . 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