Automotive News Daily Drive Nov. 22, 2025 | Weekend Drive: LA Auto Show; Akio Toyoda goes full MAGA
Nov 22, 2025
Join Jerry Hirsch, a tech and innovation expert from Automotive News, and Larry P. Vellequette, reporter on Toyota and Subaru, as they dive into the highlights of the LA Auto Show. Discover the buzz around Kia’s revamped Telluride and Hyundai's adventurous concepts. The duo also tackles the surprising shift in hybrid vehicle focus, aimed at performance rather than just fuel economy. Additionally, they discuss Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda's controversial MAGA hat moment in Japan and its potential implications for the brand's image and sales.
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Telluride Still Drives Kia's Momentum
- Kia's redesigned 2027 Telluride remains a major seller and a centerpiece at LA, signaling strong demand for three-row SUVs.
- The Telluride's hybrid option and rugged styling aim to refresh sales while sharing platforms with Hyundai Palisade.
Hybrids As Performance Boosters
- Automakers are using hybrid systems not just for economy but as electric power boosts to improve performance and acceleration.
- This trend makes large SUVs feel more capable while still delivering meaningful fuel savings versus non-hybrids.
LA Show Is Losing Luxury Brand Footprint
- Luxury brands have largely abandoned the LA Auto Show, leaving reduced manufacturer presence and more dealer-run stands.
- Auto shows appear to be morphing into consumer-facing events run by local dealer groups rather than full automaker showcases.