The First Week of 2026 Was Packed With Stories Worth Following
The opening week of 2026 made one thing clear from the start: this year is already moving with serious momentum. The stories we covered this week reflected real shifts taking place across the automotive world, from record-breaking sales figures and hands-on driving experiences to major advances in electric technology and meaningful changes in fuel options. Together, they offer a clear preview of where the industry is headed next.
Kia Opens 2026 With a Historic Sales Record
Kia kicked off the new year on a high note, closing 2025 with more than 3.13 million vehicles sold worldwide—the strongest sales performance in the company’s history. This milestone didn’t happen by chance. It’s the result of a well-executed strategy focused on SUVs and crossovers, led by popular models like the Sportage, Seltos, and Sorento. These vehicles have become staples in many global markets, including the Arab region, reinforcing Kia’s position as a brand that understands its audience and moves confidently with market demand.
From Baghdad: Mousub Tests BYD’s First Pickup
In a hands-on experience straight from Iraq, Mousub Sha’sha’a traveled to Baghdad to test-drive BYD’s first pickup truck to officially enter the market—the Shark 6. This wasn’t just another launch event, but a real-world drive on Iraqi roads that showed how plug-in hybrid technology can reshape the traditional pickup formula. Strong performance, quick acceleration, and SUV-like comfort highlighted how modern pickups are evolving, while also underlining Iraq’s growing importance as an emerging automotive market in the region.
Xiaomi SU7 2026 Continues to Make Its Presence Felt in EVs
Xiaomi is clearly not treating its automotive venture as a side project. With the updated SU7 2026, the company delivers noticeable improvements in performance and technology. Faster charging enabled by an advanced electrical architecture, longer driving range, increased power, and driver-assistance systems offered as standard all position the SU7 as a serious competitor in the electric sedan segment. Xiaomi’s approach goes beyond brand recognition—it’s about delivering strong value in a highly competitive space.
98-Octane Fuel Arrives in Saudi Arabia for the First Time
For the first time in Saudi Arabia’s fuel market, 98-octane gasoline is set to be introduced starting January 2026. The move reflects a clear shift in the types of vehicles now common on Saudi roads. With the growing presence of sports cars and supercars, along with increasingly powerful engines, high-octane fuel has become a practical need rather than a luxury. Offering better efficiency, more stable combustion, and added protection for advanced engines, 98-octane fuel signals how the Saudi market is evolving alongside global performance-car trends.
ArabGT’s BMW iX3 2026 Test Drive Looks Ahead
The week wrapped up with a special global test drive, as the ArabGT team got behind the wheel of the all-new BMW iX3 2026—the first production model built around BMW’s Neue Klasse vision. The experience showcased how electric performance, artificial intelligence, and BMW’s signature driving character can come together seamlessly. More than just a car review, the drive offered a glimpse into how BMW sees its future taking shape.
