Volkswagen is accelerating its “In China, for China” strategy, revealing two new flagship electric models at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show; the ID.Aura T6 crossover and the ID.Unyx 09 sedan. The new models aim to steady the ship for the German brand, which saw deliveries in the region slip by 15.4 per cent last year.
The ID.Aura T6 marks a significant technical shift as the first Volkswagen to utilise the new CEA (China Electronic Architecture), co-developed with Xpeng. This platform reportedly reduces the number of electronic control units (ECUs) by 30 per cent, allowing for more streamlined OTA updates and a more powerful AI-driven cockpit.
In terms of hardware, the T6 is a mid-size five-seat crossover. It features a LiDAR-based assisted driving system provided by Carizon – a joint venture between the Volkswagen Group and Horizon Robotics.
Stylistically, it takes cues from the ID.3 Neo and the larger ID.6, featuring short overhangs and a curved roofline. Volkswagen has confirmed the Aura line will eventually expand to include plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and range-extender (EREV) variants.
Sitting alongside the crossover is the ID.Unyx 09. It’s a flagship sedan measuring over five metres in length. Produced at the Volkswagen Anhui plant, the 09 mirrors the styling of the existing ID.Unyx 08 crossover but adds flagship features like Face ID sensors in the B-pillar and an advanced L2 Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) system capable of handling both highway and urban environments.
While full specifications are yet to be finalised, the Unyx 09 is expected to share its powertrain with the 08. This would mean 82kWh or 95kWh LFP battery options, with power outputs ranging from 230kW in RWD guise up to 370kW for the dual-motor AWD flagship.
These models are currently exclusive to the Chinese market as part of Volkswagen’s plan to launch 20 new-energy vehicles in the region by the end of the decade.
