Quick Brew News: March 5, 2025

New vehicles from Volvo, Cadillac and race vehicles from Chevrolet and Honda.
Quick Brew News

Volvo Introduces New ES90 EV

The new Volvo ES90 is a fully electric vehicle that blends the elegance of a sedan, the adaptability of a fastback, and the spaciousness of an SUV. It features next-generation core computing with 800V technology for faster charging and extended range, capable of adding 300 km in 10 minutes and reaching up to 700 km per charge (WLTP).

Designed with Scandinavian aesthetics, the ES90 boasts a refined interior, a panoramic roof, advanced climate control, and premium audio options. Safety remains a priority, integrating a robust sensor suite, AI-driven driver monitoring, and innovative protection systems.

Built on Volvo’s SPA2 architecture and Superset tech stack, the ES90 benefits from over-the-air updates to enhance performance and safety. With order books open in select European markets, it marks Volvo’s continued push toward full electrification.

Cadillac Unveils All-New Escalade IQL

The 2026 Cadillac ESCALADE IQL is an all-electric, extended version of the ESCALADE IQ, offering increased passenger and cargo space. It features a bold design, a luxurious tech-filled interior, and advanced innovations like a 55-inch curved display, AKG premium audio, and Super Cruise hands-free driving.

Powered by a 24-module GM battery, it delivers up to an estimated 460-mile range, 750 hp, and 785 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. It also supports bidirectional charging and rapid DC fast charging.

With production starting in mid-2025, the ESCALADE IQL will be available in four trims, starting at $132,695, further solidifying Cadillac’s leadership in the luxury SUV segment.

Chevrolet Silverado EV ZR2 Concept To Race Mint 400

Chevrolet unveiled the Silverado EV ZR2 race truck concept at the Mint 400 off-road race, where it will compete in the Open Production EV class with Chad Hall driving. The truck, built with 98% GM production parts, features a tri-motor system producing 1,100 hp and 11,500 lb-ft of torque, prototype Multimatic adaptive dampers, and 37-inch BF Goodrich tires.

Designed for extreme off-road racing, the concept truck helps Chevrolet engineers test performance and durability, with insights applied to future production models. The reveal coincides with the upcoming launch of the 2026 Silverado EV Trail Boss, an off-road-oriented EV set to debut this summer.

Honda Passport Trailsport Makes Race Debut at Mint 400

The all-new 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport will make its racing debut at the Mint 400, competing in both the Stock Production Truck and Unlimited Truck 2WD classes.

The Honda Baja Passport Race Truck, competing in the Unlimited Truck 2WD class, features a twin-turbo 3.5L V6 engine from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) producing 550 hp, along with 24 inches of front and 30 inches of rear suspension travel and 40-inch tires. Driven by Ethan Ebert, this truck showcases key design elements from the 2026 Passport and will also compete in the Baja 500 and Baja 1000 later this year.

The Stock Production Truck entry uses a mostly unmodified Passport TrailSport, with minor upgrades like 33-inch tires, adjustable coilovers, skid plates, and rock sliders. Honda engineers from the Honda of America Racing Team (HART) will drive it, using the race to test suspension performance and HRC Performance Parts.

The 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport, Honda’s most off-road-capable SUV, features an off-road tuned suspension, reinforced chassis, all-terrain tires, and steel skid plates. Designed for adventure, it has increased rigidity, improved AWD, and optional rugged accessories.

The Mint 400, America’s oldest off-road race, will serve as a proving ground for Honda’s racing and consumer off-road technology.

Alicia Baker
Alicia is a Canadian writer whose enthusiasm for cultural and automotive are combined in her writing. Her background includes links to insurance, finance, and automotive safety.