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Fiat has previewed a new concept car called Multiplay, due to be shown at the Paris Motor Show later this month. Inspired by Multipla models of the 1950s and late 1990s, it’s described as a vehicle that can be converted from pick-up to SUV in “just a few moments” and we’re expected a six-seat layout, too. Fiat says the concept explores affordable family mobility and could influence future production models. Also making their public debut in Paris are the Fiat Grizzly and Grizzly Fastback.

Citroen UK has created the Pawlingo concept, turning the Berlingo van into a dog walker’s dream machine. Developed with animal welfare charity Blue Cross, it has two air-conditioned canine compartments with beds inspired by Citroen’s Advanced Comfort seats and monitoring cameras. There’s also a built-in shower for muddy paws, drying robes, harnesses, leads, treats and a waste bin. Citroen says the idea is to reduce stress and improve comfort for dogs travelling between walks. No word on whether all this will be offered as an optional upgrade in the future.

The launch of a new small Defender is drawing close but there’s a question mark over its name. Will it be Defender Sport? Apparently not. Word is that it won’t be a name, but a number. We already have Defender 130, 110 and Defender 90. Does that mean that the new, smaller one will be Defender 70? We think so.

Whatever it’s called, it will be based on a new architecture for Land Rover which will also underpin the forthcoming new Range Rover Evoque and GT. It was originally designed for all electric power, but has been redeveloped to allow for hybrid, too. And there’ll be a commercial version.

Ford will return to the World Rally Championship as a full factory backed team from 2028, working with long-time partner M-Sport. The bigger intrigue comes a year later: Ford says an all-new WRC car will debut in 2029, taking inspiration from one of its upcoming new European passenger vehicles. Ford has also confirmed a fresh European line-up of five electric and hybrid models, so the rally car may offer an early clue to what is coming next. Will it revive the Fiesta name do we think? And Focus for that matter…

As part of its whistlestop tour of Ireland’s Range Rover showrooms, an example of the new Range Rover Electric was unveiled to the Irish motoring media today at Spirit Jaguar Land Rover in Sandyford in Dublin. The EV will be on display until 5 October and orders are now being taken for January delivery, starting at €160,620. We’ve already driven the car in prototype form.