Munich, the city of beer and pretzels, hosted something much more electric this year – the IAA Mobility Munich 2025. It wasn’t just a motor show, it was an arena where European titans clashed with Eastern challengers, all waving the flag of the electric revolution. If you think cars have become boring boxes, this event will convince you otherwise. As Jan Macarol, with a touch of cynicism, I’ll reveal why these machines are dreams on wheels – and I’ll find something in each one that will put you behind the wheel with a smile.
IAA Mobility Munich 2025 was a candy store of technological treats, full of surprises, where European icons met newcomers from China, Turkey and now Audi's bold two-seater. Here are the key innovations that stole the show - and why you should be interested too. Let's start with electric hatchbacks and compacts that promise everyday fun, and then add Audi's sporty vision that will delight purists.
Hyundai Ioniq 3 Concept: A Hatchback That Breathes Revolution
The Hyundai Ioniq 3 Concept has arrived as a breath of fresh air from Korea, promising 80% fidelity to the production model. This 4.29-meter-long electric hatchback with a ducktail spoiler and parametric pixel lights looks like it's stepped out of a futuristic movie. The interior offers dual widescreen displays, a panoramic roof and ambient lighting that give a sense of luxury without the extortionate price tag. The V2L function even powers your picnic! With an output of 150 to 160 kW (201 to 215 horsepower) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in around seven seconds and reaches a top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). The battery is available in two versions: 58 kWh for a range of 430 km (267 miles) or 81 kWh for 600 km (373 miles) according to the WLTP standard. Charging? Up to 128 kW on a DC charger, from 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes. “Hyundai takes risks with a design that is both beautiful and useful,” they say in Seoul. Ironically: with a range of 600 km, you almost forget it's electric – until you're looking for a socket. Positive: practical, affordable and with a design that doesn't scream "look at me".
Leapmotor B05: Chinese challenger to the Golf throne at IAA Mobility Munich 2025
The Leapmotor B05 isn't just another Chinese experiment - this 4.43-meter-long electric hatchback attacks the Volkswagen Golf with the audacity of the TikTok generation. With frameless doors, 19-inch wheels and a 2.735-meter-long wheelbase, it promises space and style. Powered by 160 kW (218 horsepower) with 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in eight seconds and has a top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). The battery is available in two versions: 56.2 kWh for 361 km (224 miles) or 67.1 kWh for 434 km (270 miles). Charging up to 168 kW DC ensures that it can be charged from 30 to 80 percent in less than 20 minutes. “Wider, bolder, ready for Europe,” Leapmotor says. Cynicism: The Chinese have taken the soul of the Golf and electrified it – for less money. Positive: The 50:50 weight distribution means it drives like a true European. It will be on the roads from the second quarter of 2026, thanks to a partnership with Stellantis.
Renault Clio 2026: Sixth generation with a new soul
The Renault Clio 2026 is no longer just a petrol-powered little thing. The sixth generation, 4.116 metres long, brings a hybrid heart, sharper headlights and a 391-litre boot. The design is reminiscent of its sporty roots, but remains practical. The E-Tech 160 hybrid system with 118 kW (160 hp) and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds, with a consumption of 3.9 l/100 km (60 mpg US) and a range of up to 1000 km (621 miles). The 1.4 kWh battery is charged regeneratively, without the need for a socket. A 1.2-litre TCe petrol engine with 85 kW (115 hp) and acceleration time of 10.1 seconds is also available. “An icon requires risk,” says Fabrice Cambolive. Ironically: Clio has gone green, but it still doesn't fly. Positively: Google Built-in and 29 assistance systems make driving as easy as a Sunday outing.
Polestar 5: The Swedish electric dreamer
The Polestar 5 is the Swedish answer to Porsche's Taycan - a grand tourer on an aluminum platform with aerodynamics (drag coefficient 0.24) and a camera instead of a rear window. The interior offers a 14.5-inch screen, Recaro seats with massage and recycled materials made of flax and PET plastic. The Dual Motor version develops 550 kW (748 horsepower) and 812 Nm (559 lb-ft), accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, reaches 250 km/h (155 mph) and offers a range of 670 km. The Performance version with 650 kW (884 horsepower) does it in 3.1 seconds with a range of 565 km. The battery with 112 kWh (106 usable) and 800-volt architecture is charged with a power of 350 kW, from 10 to 80 percent in 22 minutes. “Less is more,” say the Swedes. Cynicism: a competitor to the Taycan, which is not in the US due to customs? Positive: Lotus rigidity and comfort for long journeys – a dream for Scandinavians.
Škoda Vision O: Station wagon with refrigerator and artificial intelligence – different at AA Mobility Munich 2025
The Škoda Vision O is a 4.85-meter-long electric station wagon with more than 650 liters of luggage space, which expands to 1,700 liters with the seats folded. The Modern Solid design brings recycled materials and a refrigerator in the trunk - Simply Clever at its best. Battery and range specifications are still a secret, but we expect at least 400 km and charging with more than 100 kW. AI assistant Laura tells stories to children and plans routes. “Effortless travel,” says Klaus Zellmer. Ironic: a station wagon with artificial intelligence? It's like your grandmother getting a smartphone. Positive: The V2L function and bio-adaptive lighting ensure practicality and relaxation on the road.
Skoda Epiq 2026: A compact SUV with great promise
The Škoda Epiq 2026 is a 4.1-meter-long electric SUV with a 475-liter trunk and a price of around 25,000 euros. The design with matte paint and T-lights complements the interior, full of Simply Clever details, such as movable drawers and practical accessories. The range of up to 425 km according to the WLTP standard is powered by a battery with a capacity of 40 to 60 kWh, and charging is possible with up to 100 kW at a DC charging station. “Practical and fun,” says Zellmer. Cynicism: a lot for a little? It's a shame. Positive: physical buttons and wireless charging appeal to all generations, from young people to those who still appreciate the analog world.
Mercedes-Benz GLC EQ 2025: A star in electric guise
The Mercedes-Benz GLC with EQ 2025 is going electric with an 800-volt architecture and an 80 mm longer wheelbase. The interior is pampered with a 99.3 cm HYPERSCREEN display and vegan materials. The GLC 400 4MATIC version offers 360 kW (483 horsepower), acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph) and a range of 713 km. The battery with around 94 kWh is charged from 10 to 80 percent in 24 minutes, which means 303 km of range in just 10 minutes. “A new age of stardom,” say Mercedes. Ironically: the star shines on electricity, but still weighs 2.4 tons. Positive: AIRMATIC suspension and the V2H function for home power supply ensure comfort and practicality.
Volkswagen ID. Cross: T-Cross with buttons and a heart
The Volkswagen ID. Cross brings back physical buttons to the 4.161-meter-long electric package with a 450-liter trunk and an additional 25 liters in the trunk. The Pure Positive design and the living room-like interior promise comfort. With an output of 155 kW (211 horsepower), it achieves a range of 420 km and a top speed of 175 km/h (109 mph). The battery is available in two versions, and charging is done with 11 kW on AC or 20-25 minutes on a DC charger. “Clear operability,” they say at VW. Cynicism: finally buttons – because screens are not for everyone. Positive: practical for the city and capable of towing 1200 kg, which is ideal for urban adventures.
Togg T10X: The Turkish SUV that surprises
The Togg T10X is a 4.599-meter-long Turkish electric SUV with a 441-liter trunk and a design that includes a distinctive tulip grille and a panoramic screen. The rear-wheel drive (RWD) version offers 160 kW (218 horsepower) and 350 Nm of torque, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph), with a range of 314 or 523 km depending on the battery (52.4 or 88.5 kWh). The AWD version with 320 kW (435 horsepower) accelerates in 4.8 seconds. Charging with 180 kW takes 28 minutes from 10–80 percent. “Technological maturity,” they say at Togg. Ironic: Turkey in Europe? Like kebab in Munich. Positive: OTA upgrades and the Trugo charging network make for a modern experience.
BMW iX3 New Class: The Bavarians shock
The BMW iX3 Neue Klasse is a 4.782-meter-long SUV with a boot capacity of 520 to 1,750 liters and a vertical kidney grille design with a drag coefficient of 0.24. With an output of 345 kW (469 horsepower) and 645 Nm (475 lb-ft) of torque, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, reaches 210 km/h (130 mph) and offers an impressive range of 805 km. The 108.7 kWh battery is charged with a power of 400 kW in 21 minutes. “The biggest jump,” says Oliver Zipse. Cynicism: BMW without petrol? Like beer without foam. Positive: 98% regeneration and V2G function for a green future.
Audi Concept C 2025: A crazy bold two-seater that brings the TT's soul to life
The Audi Concept C 2025 arrived as a wildly different electric sports two-seater at the IAA Mobility Munich 2025, bringing back the spark of the TT and promising a production version in 2027. Led by new CCO Massimo Frascello, it's a bold step into Audi's future, with inspiration from the Auto Union Type C (1936), the Avus concept (1991) and the Rosemeyer (2000) mixed with TT DNA. Measuring 4520 mm long, 1970 mm wide, 1285 mm high and with a wheelbase of 2568 mm, it weighs 1690 kg. The rear-wheel drive (RWD) sits on 21-inch wheels with 255/30 tires at the front and 305/30 at the rear; the production model will likely get quattro (AWD). The 800-volt architecture with a central battery placement promises fast charging, although capacity, range, power, torque, acceleration and top speed are not yet revealed - we expect at least 400+ km and acceleration under 4 seconds, given its affinity with the Porsche 718. The interior is minimalist and tactile: a 10.4-inch screen is tucked into the dashboard, physical buttons (shy tech) and a round steering wheel bring an analog feel. Upholstery made of wool twill and recycled fabrics, along with anodized aluminum, add prestige. The targa roof with an electrically folding hardtop is an Audi first, and the rear slats replace glass for better aerodynamics. The Titanium color combines warmth and technology, and the four-element light signature will be Audi's new face. “This is the central element of Audi’s new face,” says Frascella. Ironically: Audi is reviving the TT, which died in 2023, with electricity – like giving a new plug to a gasoline soul. Positively: close to the R8 in dimensions, but priced between the TT and the R8 (near six figures USD), with low production in the five figures – for real enthusiasts who want fun in two seats.
Conclusion: IAA Mobility Munich 2025
IAA Mobility Munich 2025 was more than an exhibition – it was proof that electric is not just the future, but the present, especially with Audi’s Concept C 2025, which, according to sources like Autocar and Motor1, is bringing Audi back to its sporty soul with promises of series production in 2027 and technology that shares DNA with Porsche. As reported by MotorTrend and Autocar, the models brought ranges of up to 805 km, charging in 20-30 minutes and power from 150 kW (200 horsepower) to 650 kW (884 horsepower), with an 800-volt architecture for speed. Prices range from 25,000 euros for the Skoda to 140,000 euros for the Polestar, and the Audi will probably be between the TT and the R8 – for every pocket and dream. Ironically: electric promises freedom, but the socket remains the boss, and Audi is still hiding the specifications, as if to keep us in suspense. Positive: From the AI in the Skoda to the buttons in the VW and the Audi's wind-in-your-hair targa, each car brings something that makes driving fun and smart - even for the uninitiated, who will appreciate the simplicity. Personally? As Clarkson would say: "These electrics are still too soft, but the Audi C reminds me why cars are not just transportation - they are passion." My advice? Go for a test drive and see for yourself, maybe start with the Audi concept for a real spark. What do you think - is electric the future or a fad, and will the Audi C be the new TT? Comment and share - motoring needs your voice!
