Paris Auto Show Highlights: Alfa Romeo Cuorerosso, Citroën 2CV, Fiat Multiplay, Zeekr 9X, Denza Z Spyder and Li Auto Li 6

The Paris Auto Show produced a mix of retro revivals and new electric technology. Motor Trend's list of the hottest cars and concepts, referenced in Mac's Motor City Garage's briefing, includes the Alfa Romeo Cuorerosso, the Citroën 2CV, the Fiat Multiplay, the Zeekr 9X, the Denza Z Spyder and the Li Auto Li 6. I have only seen the list of names, not the descriptions, so I cannot detail the specifications.

The selection illustrates the competition on show. The Citroën 2CV is a famous name from the past that appears to be returning in some form, while Alfa Romeo and Fiat represent Stellantis' push to showcase concepts across its brands, as Reuters noted when it reported six new models and nine concepts from the group. The Zeekr, Denza and Li Auto names represent Chinese brands, which have sent about 20 exhibitors to the show, double the number in 2024.

The mixture of European heritage names and Chinese newcomers shows the shape of the market. European brands are trying to combine nostalgia, design and affordability, while Chinese makers emphasise technology, performance and price. Analysts quoted by Reuters said Chinese carmakers are seeking European production and partnerships, partly because of tariff rules.

For car fans, auto shows are a chance to see which ideas might become production cars. Concepts often change or disappear before reaching the market, so a flashy reveal is not a promise. For shoppers, the main point is that more choice is coming, especially in the electric segment. Watch for confirmation of production plans, prices and launch dates for the models that interest you, and read independent reviews once they are available. The shows are also a good place to compare cars in person.

News sources

• Motor Trend – Paris Auto Show 2026 hottest cars and concepts
• Mac's Motor City Garage – Executive Briefing, 16 Oct 2026

Paris Motor Show Product Blitz: About 20 Chinese Brands and Stellantis' Six New Models and Nine Concepts

The Paris Motor Show has become a stage for the global fight over market share. Reuters, as carried by Sowetan, reports that European and Chinese carmakers launched a product blitz in Paris, with about 20 Chinese brands attending, including BYD and Chery, double their presence at the last show in 2024. They are facing a gruelling EV price war and falling sales at home.

Stellantis, described as the world's number four carmaker, launched six new models across its European brands and unveiled nine concept cars, which Reuters calls a remarkable turnaround after years of a low-key presence at shows on the continent. Chinese newcomers include Aito, and state-owned Changan will launch two new brands, Nevo and Avatr. Geely Auto's chief executive, Alex Nan, emphasised the company's deepening partnership with Renault and its commitment to Europe.

InsideEVs says both Chinese and European companies brought their best efforts, with Renault showing the E-Space concept and Stellantis presenting concepts from all of its European brands, many of them electric. CarNewsChina's preview listed exhibitors ranging from BYD, Chery, Geely and Leapmotor to Xpeng, Zeekr and Lotus.

What does it mean for buyers? More brands and more models usually lead to more competition, which can bring lower prices and more technology. It also means a more crowded market in which some names may not survive. Chinese carmakers are looking at European production, partly to avoid tariffs and meet local requirements, according to Reuters. Watch for which concepts become production cars and for how European brands respond to the pressure. Auto shows are exciting, but sales will decide the winners.

News sources

• Reuters via Sowetan – European, Chinese carmakers launch product blitz at Paris car show
• InsideEVs – Chinese and European car companies at the Paris Auto Show
• CarNewsChina – What to expect from Chinese car brands at the Paris Auto Show 2026