Preview: Small Lexus, big Hyundai and an interview

It gets quieter in the last week before Christmas. Nevertheless, just before the end of the year, there is one more important novelty: Lexus has been trying to get a wheel on the ground in Europe for more than 30 years. But with prices over 50,000 euros, the choice is still not necessarily Toyota's luxury subsidiary. Now the Japanese are once again trying a smaller size with the LBX, the smallest model in the range. And it is set to become a really big one.

The largest Hyundai is the Staria. The futuristically designed minibus offers plenty of space and takes aim at the Mercedes V-Class or the VW T7. Guido Borck took a closer look at the Signature luxury version with a 177 hp diesel engine and all-wheel drive.

In all the electric hype, once popular vehicle combinations almost get lost. We have a nippy and economical estate car with plenty of space and a long-distance 150 hp diesel to offer and present the Leon ST from the successful Seat sub-brand Cupra in a practical test. Skoda is also successful again this year. The importer has moved up to fifth place behind four domestic manufacturers as the brand with the highest number of registrations in Germany. In an interview with Auto-Medienportal, Jan-Hendrik Hülsmann, CEO of Skoda Germany, points to the refreshed model range that will be available at dealerships next year. However, he expects a decline in sales of electric vehicles if the state subsidy expires earlier than planned, as planned by the traffic light coalition.

As usual, we will also keep you up to date with the latest news from the world of cars, motorcycles and transport policy. (aum)