The Autoblog Podcast: Recent Episodes
Autoblog
The Autoblog Podcast is one of the oldest and most-listened to automotive podcasts anywhere. The show features a rotating panel of editors and guests hosted by Editor-in-Chief Greg Migliore. The gloves come off and the lively discussion has everything from the most important news of the week to the best and worst cars we're driving. The show traditionally wraps with the popular Spend My Money segment. With nearly 700 episodes, the podcast is a must-listen for automotive enthusiasts everywhere.
The Case for Going Big on GasDiesel engines remain the dominant choice when strong low-end torque is needed for towing and hauling. However, strict U.S. emissions rules have made them less prominent than they are in Europe. Automakers are instead offering large-displacement gasoline engines, which may not fully match diesel torque but have their own appeal and generally require less-complex emissions equipment.
Ford offers one in the 7.3-liter “Godzilla” V8, introduced for the 2020 model year as a successor to the 6.8-liter Triton V10 in many heavy-duty applications. Featuring a pushrod, two-valve design and a cast-iron block, the Godzilla is offered in heavy-duty vehicles such as the F-250, producing up to 430 horsepower and 485 lb-ft of torque. That is nowhere near the Power Stroke diesel’s available 1,200 lb-ft, but the Godzilla was designed to be a capable workhorse with old-school muscle.
Godzilla’s Achilles’ HeelHowever, the Godzilla V8 is far from flawless. Lifter failures have been reported, including in this teardown from Dave’s Auto Center. One lifter had a destroyed roller after its needle bearings disintegrated. The host criticized the use of needle bearings under extremely high loads, arguing that a bushing design could better withstand the stress.
This particular engine also contained water, as evidenced by rust inside one of the cylinders. It had reportedly sat outside for some time, making water intrusion a plausible explanation.
The bright side is that the engine will be rebuilt, allowing its damaged components to be replaced. The host said its core remained good and the engine was still rebuildable. He also commended Ford’s decision to use port fuel injection instead of the direct-injection system found in General Motors’ 6.6-liter L8T. By spraying fuel upstream of the intake valves, port injection helps keep them cleaner and reduces the risk of carbon buildup.
Dave's Auto Center/YouTube
Keeping The Gas Monster AliveTo reduce the risk of lifter issues, owners should follow the proper maintenance schedule, especially for oil changes, and avoid prolonged idling, which can lower oil pressure and reduce lubrication around the lifters.
For the 2026 Super Duty, the Godzilla V8 is generally a $1,500 option over the standard 6.8-liter V8 on applicable trims, although some models include it as standard. It is set to become standard across the Super Duty lineup for 2027. The automaker also sells the Godzilla as a crate engine for swaps and custom builds.
Dave's Auto Center/YouTube
A 6.4-Liter Hemi With Plenty of Life LeftThe Hemi V8 is very popular for good reasons. It’s simple to wrench on, pops up in everything from muscle cars to burly Ram trucks, and you’ll never run out of parts or advice. But not every Hemi gets to cruise through life trouble-free. The 6.4-liter version, in particular, has its fair share of gripes – think valvetrain headaches and lubrication woes.
For this teardown from I Do Cars, the subject is a 6.4-liter Hemi V8. This engine came from a 2-year-old Ram 2500. But here’s the kicker: a Mopar remanufactured tag confirmed that this wasn’t the untouched factory gem it pretended to be.
But Something Is Very WrongThere was a challenge when cranking over the engine. Pulling the spark plugs didn’t show anything dramatic, but once the intake came off, things got weird – moisture, rust, and even a rogue bolt hiding in an intake port.
It only got uglier under the valve covers. The oil looked like gray sludge, packed with what the presenter dubbed 'forbidden glitter.' Several push rods were crying out for lubrication. Pop the heads off, and you find corrosion, deep vertical scars in the cylinder bores, and a piston that had clearly tried to high-five its cylinder head.
Then came the oil pan, and things didn’t get any prettier. The pickup screen was clogged with metal shavings, and the pan itself was filled with a thick, silvery sludge – most likely what was left of the connecting-rod bearings.
I Do Cars/YouTube
The Hemi's Usual Suspect Is Surprisingly InnocentWith all that metal floating around, you’d bet the Hemi’s infamous lifters were to blame. Shockingly, they checked out just fine. Every lifter was still usable, showing none of the usual carnage that sends metal shrapnel through the engine and wipes out the camshaft. Instead, the real culprit looked to be a connecting-rod bearing failure.
Several rod bearings were chewed up, with the worst pair mangled and half-rolled over. The crankshaft got off lighter than you’d expect, though at least one journal will need some serious machine work. The oil pump didn’t escape either, taking a beating from all the debris.
The block isn’t headed for the junkyard just yet. The bores are worn and corroded enough to need machining – maybe even oversized pistons – but it’s still considered salvageable.
I Do Cars/YouTube
What This Teardown Tells UsNobody knows exactly what killed the bearings. Maybe it was lousy maintenance – the bargain-bin oil filter is a clue. Or maybe something went sideways during the last rebuild, since this is a remanufactured engine. The presenter did notice some head bolts acting odd during removal, but he’s quick to say that’s just a theory.
The real takeaway? Even an engine that looks complete can hide a wallet-busting disaster. This time, the Hemi dodged the usual lifter apocalypse. Instead, a bearing failure sent metal shrapnel through the oiling system and took out a bunch of other parts along the way.
Luckily, there’s still a decent haul left – heads, intake manifold, timing cover, maybe even the camshaft. This engine’s rough, but it’s not ready for the crusher just yet.
Not Every Truck Ride Has to Be a WorkoutPickup trucks have long had a reputation for being overly rugged and delivering a rough ride. To some extent, that is true, partly because their body-on-frame construction and suspension systems are designed for workhorse duties. However, automakers have evolved their trucks to offer trims and options that prioritize comfort.
For the 2027 model year, Chevrolet is making the Colorado more livable by adding a new six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat. This was reported by GM Authority, citing sources, which also mentioned that a new engine is on the way. The power-adjustable passenger seat will be a first for the nameplate’s current generation, although it will not be available on every trim.
Chevrolet
Two Paths Up the Colorado LineupThe report states that only the Z71 and ZR2 will offer the new six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat. These are two of the Colorado’s higher trims, but they serve different purposes. The Z71 balances everyday comfort with off-road capability, while the ZR2 is designed for more serious off-roading and trail use.
The feature will be available as part of the optional Convenience Package III. As standard, every 2027 Colorado trim – including the WT, LT, Trail Boss, Z71, and ZR2 – will receive a four-way manually adjustable front passenger seat.
Sure, it is not a major comfort upgrade compared with, say, massaging seats or suspension refinements. However, it still brings added convenience, including power lumbar control that could help reduce fatigue on long drives. Passengers will also be able to adjust the seat fore and aft electrically instead of using a manual lever.
Chevrolet
There’s More Than a Seat Update HereAs mentioned earlier, the 2027 Chevrolet Colorado is also reportedly getting a new engine: a turbocharged 2.7-liter L4B inline-four. It will replace the current 2.7-liter turbocharged L3B, which produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, although output figures for the new engine have not been disclosed. In the same vein, the Colorado's bigger truck sibling, the Silverado, is set to introduce two of General Motors’ new Gen 6 small-block V8 engines.
Production of the 2027 Colorado is expected to begin in October, but pricing has not yet been announced. For reference, the outgoing 2026 model starts at $32,400 for the no-nonsense WT trim, while the flagship ZR2 starts at $50,700. Both prices exclude destination charges.
Chevrolet
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Mitsuoka Is Doing the Corvette Thing AgainWhen you think of Japanese car brands, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Nissan are probably the first names that pop up. But then there's Mitsuoka, the quirky little automaker famous for transforming everyday Japanese cars into some of the wildest creations on the road.
Now, Mitsuoka is cooking up another open-top sports car built on the bones of the Mazda MX-5 Miata. This one follows in the tire tracks of the Rock Star, Mitsuoka's Miata-based roadster that paid tribute to the second-generation Chevrolet Corvette, the C2.
This time around, Mitsuoka seems to be digging even deeper into Corvette history. The early teasers hint at a Corvette C1-inspired design, and we'll get to see the whole thing unveiled in November.
新型車の第3弾ティザー画像を公開 #ミツオカ pic.twitter.com/uZafxSI2if
— 光岡自動車 (@mitsuokamotorjp) August 6, 2026
The New Mitsuoka Is Still Hiding Under a SheetMitsuoka has been playing the slow reveal game, dropping little glimpses instead of just showing us the whole car. The latest teaser finally gives us a better peek at the real thing, though most of it is still hiding under wraps.
The first teaser sketch already dropped some big hints: a stretched-out front end, a cabin shoved way back, and fenders that stick out just enough to nail those classic front-engine roadster proportions.
The second teaser flashes a bright red body with white accents up front, and the car hugs the ground with big wheels that really sell the sporty look. We also get a peek at the windshield and front section, but Mitsuoka is clearly having fun keeping the rest a mystery.
Mitsuoka
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article* Mitsuoka Is an Actual Automaker, Not Just a Novelty OneIt's tempting to see something like the Rock Star and write Mitsuoka off as just another Japanese novelty brand cranking out wild body kits. But there's a lot more going on here.
Mitsuoka has actually been building its own cars since the early 1980s, with a lineup that now includes the Rock Star, Himiko, Buddy, Viewt, and Ryugi. The company's roots in original car development go all the way back to the tiny 50cc BUBU Shuttle from 1982.
The company has also built a reputation around reimagining ordinary Japanese cars with unusual retro styling. The Himiko, for example, is a two-seat convertible with an exaggerated long-nose, short-deck design – also based on the Mazda Miata.
If these teasers are anything to go by, Mitsuoka's next Miata-based project might just be their most Corvette-obsessed build yet. We'll have to wait until November to see how wild they really go with it.
Chevrolet Corvette C1
Chevrolet
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Competition SportIn many ways, the BMW M2 carries the spirit of the original E30 M3. It's small, two-door only, and it can get rowdy when pushed. Practical performance isn't its main priority, and it's actively participating in production car-based motorsport. As the M3 is now the size of a '90s M5, the M2 is as compact as it gets.
If that wasn't enough, the M2 CS was introduced for the 2026 model. Lighter, stronger, and made more aggressive, it's the ultimate road-going iteration of the compact sports coupe to date. BMW has built more than 2,000 of these cars, all of which have been spoken for in practically no time.
BMW
All Sold Out?The U.S. market got the biggest allocation with around 300 units, which still isn't a lot all things considered. Canada only gets 81 cars, while South Africa gets 47. As a nod to its codename, Japan gets 87 units. That leaves the rest of the world fighting for the remaining 1,400 cars, give or take.
It's effectively sold out at this point, but there is a glimmer of hope. That said, you have to be living in Japan to actually have a chance at it, and you'll need even more cash to be able to get your foot in the door.
BMW
Meet the M2 Edition EdgeAs if the M2 CS wasn't destined to be a rare car, BMW Japan is introducing the M2 CS Edition Edge. It has actual upgrades over the 'standard' version that are well worth checking out, and of course, it'll be even more expensive than a regular M2.
So, what are the upgrades? For starters, there are more carbon fiber exterior parts in an effort to shave off a few more ounces from the car. Do remember that the CS is already around 100 lbs lighter than a regular M2, so every bit of weight savings helps. Even the engine cover is made from carbon fiber, so expect it to be less muffled.
Speaking of muffled, the exhaust pipes get some attention, too. Instead of the usual quad-exit arrangement, this one gets four center exits instead. With that, you can think of this model as a CS with just about every part from the M Performance catalog.
BMW
Exclusivity Has Its PriceThe M2 CS carries a base price of ¥14,880,000 in Japan, which is around $94,000. That's actually not too far off prices in the U.S at $98,600. However, the CS Edition Edge starts at ¥16,630,000 or approximately $105,000.
It's not what anyone would call affordable, but that's the price of exclusivity. Japan is, after all, the land of the limited edition, and BMW knows its target demographic there very well. And whereas 87 M2 CSs have been earmarked for Japan, the Edition Edge will be even rarer – just 40 to be made – with 20 in M Brooklyn Grey and the rest in Sapphire Black, all in right-hand drive.
BMW
Brand LoveShowing one's love and fandom for their automotive brand is normal; it's an affiliation people do. Brands acknowledge this by releasing special-edition items like memorabilia and clothing. The more out-of-the-box examples include food collabs or interesting items like toys; most of the time, these items are well received and collected.
Nissan seems to be taking the pop-culture scene seriously; after a recent partnership with Bearbrick for the final GT-R, they've gone one step further with a new collaboration (it might be a step too far).
Grillz By NismoThe last two races of the 2025-2026 Formula E season will be held in London, and to commemorate the occasion, Nissan wanted to partner up with a local brand to release some new Nismo and classic Nissan items. Britain is rife with iconic items that could be used as the collaborator for Nissan; however, they've chosen something more pop-culture-related.
Just announced by the Japanese automaker is a partnership with independent jewelry studio LOUD MOUTH LDN. If you aren't aware of Loud Mouth LDN, allow us to shed some light. As a jewelry company, they wanted to stand out, which led them to customize people's teeth through what is known as Grillz. Grillz are bedazzled and blingy jewelry that you can have attached to the front part of your teeth, essentially giving your teeth something reminiscent of a car's grille.
Grillz are a huge part of the music scene that broke through as a new accessory in the United States and then the United Kingdom. Nissan wanted the collaboration to signify a connection between Nismo's design heritage and a different form of creativity.
There are four different designs for the Nissan x Loud Mouth LDN; each grille symbolizes an iconic Nissan car. The first is a tie-in to the brand's current Formula E race car; there's also one dedicated to the Skyline GT-R R34, both in stock and in the iconic Yellow Penzoil race car design. Lastly, the final design is an homage to the Nissan Z GT500 race car.
Corridor of Wonders and Esoteric DelightsLoud Mouth LDN is located in the Holdrons Arcade in Peckham, which is apparently known as the "corridor of wonders and esoteric delights." They also make bespoke jewelry and grills for some high-profile artists. Unfortunately (or fortunately), the Grillz by Nismo is purely commemorative and will not be for sale to the public; however, the pieces themselves will be displayed at the Westfield shopping center in Stratford, East London, before moving to ExCeL London, where the Formula E season finale will take place. If you're so keen on getting yourself a special piece, fans attending the race will have a chance to win a bespoke piece designed and handcrafted by Loud Mouth LDN.
The Ingenium SagaAfter years of relying on Ford and BMW engines, Jaguar and Land Rover regained control of its powertrain department with the Ingenium engine family. Introduced in 2015, it was available in 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter four-cylinder guises in both gas and diesel forms. The 3.0-liter inline-six was added later on, and has been fairly reliable for what it's worth.
However, it's the four-cylinder models that still have been giving JLR grief, even after recalls and whatnot. A major recall was issued about a decade ago, but the problem continued to rear its ugly head to this day.
Jonathon Ramsey
The Main IssueThe problems of early Ingenium engines mainly revolve around the diesels, but the gas-fed versions aren't spared, either. Four-cylinder Ingenium diesels have well-documented issues with balance shaft bearings. One of the bearing points is located near the exhaust system, and we all know that exposing parts to higher-than-normal temperatures can't be good for longevity.
So, what happens when those bearings wear out? Metal shavings may eventually enter the oil circuit, and putting those two together will have catastrophic results. Aside from scarring and scratching up the lubrication system, it can clog up lines, damage pumps, and eventually cause irreversible damage to the engine. This problem is further compounded by short-distance driving that doesn't allow for frequent regeneration from the diesel particulate filter. That then leads to oil dilution and accelerated wear.
The North American market is mostly spared from that issue, but the diesels were a popular option worldwide. Still, the gas-powered Ingenium engines suffer from stretched timing chains, variable-valve timing solenoid issues, and higher-than-acceptable oil consumption. If there's any consolation, though, the failure rates are much lower.
Land Rover
Is There a Chance to Prevent It?For our European readers, it has been recommended to avoid the diesel engine outright, and for our American readers, be extremely cautious with the gas motor. According to Auto Motor und Sport, the warning signs are not consistently reliable, and once you hear rattling noises from the engine, it may already be too late. Oil change intervals for the four-cylinder Ingenium engine are every 21,000 miles, but we've seen recommendations to get that done before it hits another 10,000 miles since last service.
The publication also mentioned preventive fixes should help quell any fears, but changing balance shafts is an engine-out job that will easily cost thousands. A replacement engine won't be of much help, either, as it'll carry the same inherent faults. Even if you plop down money for it, the risks are merely reduced and not eliminated.
Jaguar
The VR Name ReturnsVR isn’t just a couple of random letters in Mitsubishi-speak. The badge first showed up on the Galant VR-4, a car that made its name with a performance edge and the Viscous Realtime 4WD system.
Now, the VR name is back – but don’t expect another rally-bred sedan or fire-breathing performance car. This time, it’s slapped on the back of an electric crossover.
Meet the ASX VR-e, Mitsubishi’s first new EV for Australia and New Zealand in over a decade. Underneath, it’s basically a Foxtron Bria – one of Foxconn’s car projects – wrapped in a suit designed by Pininfarina.
Mitsubishi
What to Expect From the ASX VR-eMitsubishi is keeping specs under wraps for now, but the Foxtron Bria gives us a decent idea of what’s lurking underneath. Don’t expect a classic 4WD system here. Instead, you get a choice: a single rear motor with 229 hp, or a dual-motor setup pushing out around 399 hp. The fast one can apparently hit 62 mph in 3.9 seconds, while the rear-drive version takes a more leisurely 6.8 seconds.
Both versions run on a 57.5-kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery. Foxtron claims up to 321 miles of range (NEDC) for the rear-drive, or 290 miles if you go all-wheel-drive. Of course, those numbers drop to about 267 and 249 miles on the tougher WLTP test. Fast charging? You can juice up from 10-80% in about half an hour at 134 kW.
Size-wise, the ASX VR-e is about 170 inches long, 74 wide, and 60 tall, with a 110-inch wheelbase. Inside, it’s expected to get a massive 15.6-inch infotainment screen, 9.2-inch digital cluster, power seats, 360-degree camera, glass roof, and mood lighting.
Mitsubishi
Australia First, America UnknownMitsubishi Motors New Zealand and Australia have confirmed the ASX VR-e is arriving toward the latter part of the year. No official price yet for Australia, but word is it’ll land around AU$40,000. That’s about $28,000, putting it right in the mix with a bunch of Chinese EVs already on sale there.
Probably the biggest question now is: will the ASX VR-e ever make it to the US? The ASX badge never showed up stateside – the gas version was called the Outlander Sport. So far, Mitsubishi isn’t saying anything about bringing the new EV to America.
If that ever changes, the ASX VR-e would join the Eclipse Sportback EV (which is basically a Nissan Leaf in disguise) as Mitsubishi’s other electric option. For now, though, it’s Australia and New Zealand that will be first to enjoy the VR’s sort-of comeback.
Mitsubishi
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For years, motorists have tried every trick to wriggle out of a speeding ticket. From claiming a broken speedometer to pretending they were rushing to an emergency, traffic officers have heard it all. Today, a modern twist on the classic roadside excuse is rapidly gaining traction. Drivers are increasingly pointing their fingers at their dashboards and blindly blaming the sophisticated algorithms running their cars.
This technological scapegoating comes at a pivotal moment for the automotive industry. As lawmakers finally scramble to write autonomous vehicle laws, a dangerous culture of confusion has firmly taken root among everyday consumers. People erroneously believe that turning on a premium driver-assistance feature instantly absolves them of basic driving responsibilities. The harsh truth is that hands-free driving software never grants immunity from traffic enforcement.
David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Culpa Ex Machina The reality of this widespread confusion played out recently when one of Parker’s police officers stopped a motorist for a blatant traffic violation. The driver was caught flying down the asphalt, traveling at a dangerous 64 mph in a clearly marked 45-mph zone. Instead of handing over their license with an apology, the individual boldly decided to argue their case right on the side of the road.
The motorist was absolutely adamant that they were not personally responsible for the excessive speed. According to the officer, the driver flatly stated, “I wasn't driving. I had auto assist on.” The roadside confrontation did not end there. The confident driver even demanded to speak to a police supervisor, convinced that the vehicle’s active driver-assistance features legally cleared them of any wrongdoing.
Local police quickly shut down that defense, issuing a stern public reminder to the community. They emphasized that whether a vehicle has adaptive cruise control, lane centering, or full self-driving capabilities, the human behind the wheel is always legally responsible. That means obeying posted speed limits, staying completely engaged, and retaining full control to help keep Parker's roads safe.
Tesla
Time For A Radical Reality CheckHere is the uncompromising lowdown. Driver assistance technology is fundamentally designed to assist you, not drive for you. The false sense of security these programs provide is actively making roads more dangerous. Automakers aggressively market these systems with futuristic names, but the underlying software still strictly requires a fully attentive human ready to take over in a split second.
This glaring marketing disconnect is precisely why prominent automakers are currently under immense scrutiny. With regulators aggressively investigating questionable safety data and companies facing massive ongoing legal troubles, the legal framework surrounding autonomous tech is tightening. You cannot blame the computer when you are sitting in the driver's seat. Slow down, always pay attention, and remember you are accountable for the vehicle's actions.
Getty
Most of the country is forecast to stay warm into fall, but six states can still see their first measurable snow in September. This year, the odds tilt higher across parts of Montana, Idaho and Washington, putting high-elevation roads and mountain passes back in play weeks before most drivers are thinking about winter.
That kind of early-season flip can happen fast. Denver went from 101 degrees to measurable snow in just three days in September 2020, a reminder that summer temperatures do not guarantee summer road conditions once a strong cold front reaches the Rockies.
Where September Snow Is NormalThe threshold that matters is 0.1 inches of accumulation, which is what the National Weather Service counts as measurable. Below that it is a dusting and it does not enter the record.
By that standard the six are western Montana, western Wyoming, the Colorado high country, Idaho, the Washington Cascades and Alaska, where National Weather Service 30-year data puts the first snow of the season in September during a typical year, and the same holds for the Bitterroots.
Northern Alaska is the only US region the Almanac's predictions flag for early snow this fall. Duluth, Minnesota, carries a September snowfall normal of 0.1 inches, which puts northern Minnesota in the same statistical bracket even though its last genuine September snow was 2012. Everywhere else in the Lower 48, September snow is a tail event rather than a norm.
South and east of the Rockies the drop-off is sharp, with Dodge City, Kansas, not averaging its first measurable snow until November 19 despite a September 21 outlier in its file. The records make the distinction clear. Alamosa, Colorado, averages its first measurable snow on November 1 and has an earliest on record of September 8, 2020, when 6.7 inches fell.
Denver, with snowfall records running back to 1882, logged its second earliest measurable snow ever during that same September 2020 pattern.
What The Forecast ChangesThe Almanac's fall picture runs warm over the interior and cooler along the East and Pacific coasts, with rainfall below average almost everywhere. The West Coast, the central and northern Rockies and parts of Texas are the exceptions.
Two lines raise the snow odds. The Pacific Northwest is called cooler and wetter, with September possibly bringing three inches of rain above normal, and the northern Intermountain region runs cool with precipitation slightly above average.
One line lowers them. The High Plains, covering eastern Colorado and eastern Wyoming, is warmer and drier through both months. The Upper Midwest sits between the two, which keeps northern Minnesota and northern Wisconsin in play without making them likely.
Northern Alaska is the only US region the outlook names for snow. The other two references are Canadian, the Yukon and the Northwest Territories, and they matter here only because the Alaska Highway runs through the Yukon.
What It Looks Like When It HappensLate September 2019 is the reference case. A cold airmass dropped into the northern Rockies and the Weather Prediction Center had Winter Storm Warnings posted across parts of northeast Washington, northern Idaho and central and western Montana, with High Wind Warnings alongside them. Browning, Montana, took 23 inches, and NOAA's gridded snowfall analysis maps that footprint across the same states this year's forecast is leaning on.
NOAA/NWS National Operational Hydrologic Remote Sensing Center
The Roads That Shut FirstHigh elevation seasonal routes close on snow rather than on a calendar date, which is the part that catches out anyone planning a trip around published closing dates. They go before anything else. The Beartooth Highway on US-212 between Red Lodge and Cooke City runs above 10,000 feet and shuts for the season in October in a normal year.
Going-to-the-Sun Road through Glacier National Park operates on the same principle. Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park tops out above 12,000 feet and has closed temporarily on September snow more than once.
Interstate corridors behave differently. I-90 over Bozeman Pass, I-80 over Donner Summit and I-70 over Vail Pass stay open through early season events, but they are where chain controls and wet snow collisions concentrate when a system arrives before anyone has changed tires.
Teton Pass on WY-22 and Togwotee Pass on US-26/287 sit between the two categories, technically open during the first storms of the season but subject to short notice restrictions when wind starts loading the snow.
Tire TimingThe number worth knowing is 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Below it, the compound in a standard all-season tire begins to stiffen and shed grip, and the loss is progressive rather than sudden. Overnight lows in the northern Rockies cross that threshold well before the first snow does, which is why an early season storm tends to find most vehicles already running tires outside their useful temperature range.
A set of all-seasons that felt fine on the drive out can be a different tire on the drive back.
Tread depth is the second variable. The 2/32 inch legal minimum is a wear limit rather than a snow performance figure, and traction on packed snow drops off sharply below roughly 4/32.
Cold also pulls tire pressure down by about 1 PSI for every 10 degree fall in temperature, and a September front in Montana can move 40 degrees inside a day.
All wheel drive does not compensate for any of it, since it affects how a vehicle accelerates rather than how it stops or turns. What follows an early storm is refrozen slush on bridge decks and shaded curves, which is a braking problem.
How Much The Forecast Is WorthThe Old Farmer's Almanac derives its long range predictions from solar science, climatology and meteorology, measured against the 1991 to 2020 statistical average prepared by government meteorological agencies. The publication puts its own accuracy at about 80 percent. Independent reviews by meteorologists and academic studies have generally landed closer to 50 percent.
The two almanacs also get conflated constantly. The Old Farmer's Almanac, published since 1792, issued the fall outlook described here.
The Farmers' Almanac, founded in 1818, is a separate publication with its own formula, and its winter 2026 to 2027 forecast is a different document released this month. Neither substitutes for a National Weather Service forecast inside a 72 hour window, which is the range at which an early snow stops being a seasonal probability and becomes a route decision.
An Off-Roader From ArrakisThe TeslaCybertruck may not be the first vehicle that comes to mind when discussing off-road trucks – especially when dedicated models such as the Ford F-150 Raptor exist – but it is still as capable of tackling unpaved terrain. Visually, though, its wedge-shaped profile and stark stainless-steel body may not be the most inspiring design for the occasion. Perhaps Unplugged Performance has a solution.
Unplugged Performance, a California-based outfitter specializing in Tesla EVs such as the Model 3, recently showcased a customer-owned Cybertruck featuring its Dune-inspired build. It combines a desert-like exterior finish with extensive off-road modifications based on the company’s Stage 3 Expedition and Pursuit packages.
Real Steel Over Real SteelAlthough Tesla promotes the Cybertruck’s stainless-steel body as durable and even “bulletproof,” additional protection can help prevent dents and scratches while off-roading. The upgrades include steel front and rear bumpers, a bull bar, steel rocker panels, and satin dry carbon-fiber front and rear fender flares.
The company also noted that the Dune-inspired finish is a FlexiShield paint-protection film. It provides the protective benefits of conventional PPF while adding color and heat-activated self-healing properties, helping the truck avoid looking worn after intense off-road runs.
The truck’s utility has also been enhanced with a four-bar roof-rack system, MOLLE side sails providing modular mounting points, and rear-bumper swing arms capable of carrying items such as recovery gear, fuel cans, or a spare tire. Auxiliary lighting for nighttime trails includes a hood-mounted 50-inch light bar.
Performance upgrades include improved brake pads, CYBRSHOCKS rear secondary shocks, a three-way adjustable rear sway bar, BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tires, and UP-03 beadlock wheels, which help keep the tires seated when running at reduced pressures. From the factory, the range-topping Cyberbeast uses a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 845 horsepower. It also offers an estimated 320 miles of range and a towing capacity of up to 11,000 pounds.
Unplugged Performance
A Little Mad Max, Minus the GasolineUnplugged Performance did not disclose the exact price of this Dune-inspired configuration. However, customers can purchase the upgrades individually, allowing them to select only what they need without committing to the entire package.
For buyers unconvinced by the Cybertruck, there are other electric pickup alternatives with more traditional styling, including the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, and Rivian R1T. Ford previously competed in this space with the F-150 Lightning but ended production last year amid mounting losses and weaker-than-expected demand.
Unplugged Performance
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It has been nearly two decades since Midnight Club: Los Angeles hit consoles in 2008. For years, fans of the acclaimed street racing franchise wondered why Rockstar Games abandoned a series that was consistently improving with every release. The truth is simple and brutal: it just wasn't Grand Theft Auto.
Former Rockstar San Diego senior designer Kris Roberts recently shared the definitive story with Insider Gaming. According to Roberts, development on Midnight Club 5 actually began, with the team actively working to build the game, which was to be set in London. Evidently, the project never graduated past the initial phases.
Rockstar Games
Internal ConflictThe cancellation came down to a sharp, internal conflict with Rockstar’s global headquarters in New York, wherein the top brass have been accused of double standards by the Midnight Club team, claiming clear favoritism for the crown jewel in Rockstar's portfolio, the Grand Theft Auto series.
The friction started before the fourth game even launched. Midnight Club: Los Angeles missed its original early 2008 deadline, eventually being delayed further to a late October release. While the final product earned high praise and performed exceptionally well against competitors like Need for Speed, the production delay damaged the San Diego studio's standing with corporate leadership.
The Gaming Industry and Rockstar Games Rockstar Games
The video game industry routinely axes high quality, profitable projects in favor of those that generate a regular and robust cash flow, and Rockstar was no exception. The publisher chose to consolidate its focus on the unstoppable success of Grand Theft Auto, eventually transitioning the company's racing-related gaming into the highly monetized GTA Online standalone product.
The death of Midnight Club 5 was not the result of poor sales or bad game design. It was a corporate casualty. A dedicated team built a phenomenal street racing experience, but in the halls of Rockstar headquarters, any project standing in the shadow of Grand Theft Auto simply could not survive.
The Refined Side of the 250 GTFerrari has a long history of producing exquisite vehicles in limited numbers, giving them the rarity and scarcity that can help drive up their value. This 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series I is no exception, having been the 18th of only 40 examples produced and styled by Italian coachbuilder Pinin Farina.
Unlike the 250 GT California Spyder, which prioritized sportiness, the 250 GT Cabriolet Series I offered luxury and comfort in an open-top package. This grand tourer is more like today’s 12Cilindri Spider than, say, an 849 Testarossa Spider – ideal for those who prefer a refined driving experience over chasing lap times. It is currently listed by RM Sotheby’s for The Monterey Auction 2026.
RM Sotheby's
The Original Specification Still ShowsThe car in question, chassis 0809 GT, was originally destined for the U.S. market. Built in 1958, this particular example was showcased at the 1958 New York International Automobile Show by Luigi Chinetti Motors, the Prancing Horse brand's New York City-based distributor. Period photographs from the show help demonstrate how faithfully it has been preserved over the years.
The first owner was a Pennsylvania-based surgeon who took delivery after the New York show. The Ferrari later passed to a North Carolina furniture manufacturer and then to Texas oilman John W. Mecom Jr., whose racing team competed in series including Formula 1 during the 1960s. The car eventually ended up with its current owners in 1985. Aside from a repaint in its original color decades ago, it remains overwhelmingly original, retaining its numbers-matching chassis, engine, gearbox, and rear axle.
Powering the vehicle is a 3.0-liter V12 fed by three Weber 36 DCL3 carburetors. The setup produces 240 horsepower and allows the car to reach a claimed top speed of 252 km/h (157 mph). The car is also equipped with the “sought-after features” of competition-style covered headlights and “bumperettes.”
RM Sotheby's
A Fifth Owner Is ComingUnder its current ownership, chassis 0809 GT has made only two public appearances: at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering in 2007 and at the 2023 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, where it placed second in the Postwar Preservation class.
This 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Cabriolet Series I is set to cross the block at The Monterey Auction on August 14 with a presale estimate of $4 million to $5 million. For those not looking to spend that much, the broader Monterey Car Week – which runs through August 16 – also features displays of prestigious cars and several vehicle debuts, including the track-focused Lamborghini Revuelto SV.
RM Sotheby's
*View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article*
An Unwanted Parts BinOne reason some owners choose dealerships is that they trust them to provide quality service, even if they would rather go to an independent shop to save money. However, this particular case involving a Kia Telluride owner in Lake Charles, Louisiana, may have left her with trust issues.
According to KPLC 7 News, owner Shirley Poullard brought her SUV to Kia of Lake Charles on June 17, 2026, after experiencing a tire blowout on the interstate. After the vehicle had been sitting at the dealership for more than a month with little communication, Poullard decided to visit, only to discover that its engine had been taken apart. Worse, the service manager admitted that two fuel injectors had been borrowed from her vehicle to service another customer’s vehicle.
Trust Takes a HitThe report did not identify the exact model year. Based on Poullard’s footage, however, she appears to own a facelifted first-generation Telluride from the MY2023–2026 range, which preceded the second-gen model introduced for MY2027. In other words, it is still relatively new. The footage also showed the owner confronting the service manager, whom the dealership later said was no longer employed.
Kia of Lake Charles released a statement saying it had conducted an internal review. She has since gotten her vehicle back but admitted that she still feels uneasy driving it.
Of course, it would be unfair to blame Kia America directly for an incident involving an independently operated dealership. Still, the case could remind the automaker to be more proactive in ensuring its dealers follow proper service practices, as brand reputation can influence sales.
Kia
A Shortcut With No Good EndingIt remains unclear what led the service manager to borrow parts from Poullard’s Telluride for another customer’s vehicle. One possible explanation is that the injectors were unavailable and the manager wanted to get the other vehicle back on the road as quickly as possible. Giving him the benefit of the doubt, the injectors might have been borrowed temporarily for diagnostic testing. Regardless, removing parts without the owner’s knowledge or permission is a breach of trust.
The takeaway is that dealership service may offer certain advantages, but it is not immune to serious lapses. Owners should obtain a detailed repair order listing all authorized work and any parts removed or replaced, and inspect their vehicle thoroughly before leaving the service bay.
Kia
*View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article*
A race car turned into a road car that barely even touched the roadThe 964-generation Carrera RSR 3.8 sits apart from other rare 911s. Porsche built only 51 examples, and these weren't lightly modified street cars, they were turnkey competition machines meant to go racing straight from the factory. But two of the 51 cars took a different path. A Porsche VIP commissioned a pair of "Strassenversion," or road-going, RSRs. They were still built on the full race chassis, but given full interiors and made street-usable.
This Polar Silver car, chassis WP0ZZZ96ZPS496107, is one of the two, and sat in a collection for the better part of two decades. The result? It sold for $4.7 million at RM Sotheby's earlier this year. And perhaps that's the strangest part of this whole car. Porsche built the 911 Carrera RSR to be driven as hard as possible. This particular example spent most of its life doing the exact opposite.
Race Hardware Under a Luxury Interior RM Sotheby's
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article* Calling it a "road-going RSR" undersells how extreme the spec really is. Both Strassenversion cars got the uprated, twin-ignition Le Mans-spec 3.8-liter flat-six, a 120-liter fuel tank, a full air-jack system, and a 40-percent locking rear differential. The goal wasn't comfort; it was a genuine motorsport race car made slightly more livable without losing what made it special. This wasn't a normal 911 made faster. It was a race car that Porsche reluctantly made usable on the street.
Inside, the original buyer went further still: Guards Red leather covers not just the seats but the steering column, center console, door panels, and even parts of the roll cage and air-jack system. Gold brake calipers and Speedline RS wheels with Amethyst Metallic centers round out the bespoke build. The same customer ordered four Turbo S Lightweights alongside the two RSRs. It was a six-car commission unlike anything Porsche would normally build for one buyer. There's just one catch: the owner barely drove any of them.
Twenty Years in Storage RM Sotheby's
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article* Though built in 1993, the car wasn't delivered until March 1996, nearly two years after RSR production ended. It then went straight into storage as part of a large private collection, staying there for almost 20 years. When it resurfaced in 2015, it had covered just six miles and still wore its factory Cosmoline protective coating, original tires, matching-numbers engine, and original Getrag gearbox. It changed hands again in 2017 and 2023, but the odometer never moved beyond that. After all, when Porsche builds you one of only two road-legal RSRs in existence, apparently the hardest thing to do is actually drive it.
The City CarWhen the Smart ForTwo came out decades ago, it ushered in a new era for proper micro city cars. It practically invented the segment, and was born out of the need to zip around a heavily congested city, mainly sold in Europe. However, the micro-car segment went through tough times, with people still opting for more size, but the emergence of EV propulsion has given micro-cars a second life.
Smart as a brand has continued to exist by offering slightly bigger cars but still staying true to the core beliefs of smaller mobility. More recently, though, it has been developing a new micro-car in the spirit of the original ForTwo, which has just been leaked ahead of launch.
China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology
#2 Replaces ForTwoThe ForTwo model was last sold back in 2024, but sales in North America ended even earlier, as far back as the late 2010s. Instead of reviving the nameplate, the brand has chosen to call the new micro-car the #2 following the current naming process of Smart. In any case, the development of the #2 is a joint-venture project between Mercedes-Benz and Chinese automaker Geely, which all but informs us that China will get the #2.
In fact, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) just released a slew of automotive filings which include details of the new #2. According to Car News China, the official global launch is expected to happen sometime in October of this year. The #2 will primarily be a city EV with seating capacity limited to 2 people; its dimensions are 2,751 mm and 2,764 mm. It will have a width of 1,669 mm and a height of 1,555 mm, with a wheelbase of 1,875 mm.
Power will come from a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, with individual cells produced by CATL and the total assembly managed by Geely. It will make around 80 hp and have a top speed of 140 km/h. Its 35.7 kWh battery pack has a WLTP range of 186 miles, which is double the previous range of the now-gone ForTwo.
China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology
City MuralsThe filings also indicate that buyers will be able to choose between different aesthetic combinations for the #2. Specifically, it will have two rim size choices in 15-inch and 16-inch form; there are also different rim designs to choose from, as well as body-colored or black colored roof options. Looking closer at the fillings also seems to point out that a lower variant will have no radars or front camera.
With the official launch in October just around the corner, Smart has begun its global marketing campaign prior to the launch. In some major cities across the globe, murals depicting the Smart #2 have been revealed with the words "It's Back." It is believed that these murals will be placed in China, Australia, South America, and most of continental Europe.
Smart
It Started With a Waiver California has the biggest market for cars among the 50 states of the U.S. You could say that U.S. market vehicles are built for Californian standards first, then the rest of the country later, which is a big point of friction for many automakers. The strictest emissions rules in the U.S. can be found in California, which was brought about by a waiver granted to the state under the Clean Air Act. However, all of that might change soon, if lawmakers get their way.
Four U.S. Senators, Wyoming's Cynthia Lummis, Missouri's Eric Schmitt, Nebraska's Pete Ricketts, and Ohio's Jon Husted, are leading the effort to remove the waiver issued by the federal government to the state of California that allowed it to impose stricter emissions regulations in the first place. These senators now want to take that permission away, but a majority vote is needed for that to happen.
In order to get California's waiver repealed, a majority vote is required, which is less than the 60 that's typically required under normal circumstances. This ruling follows the Congressional Review Act (CRA).
View towards Beverly Hills and the Interstate 405 in Los Angeles, California.Dennis Fischer Photography / Getty Images
California Laws Are Affecting Other StatesFrom an automaker's perspective, conquering California is the first step, and then the rest of the 47 mainland States will follow. Logistics will be tough for Alaska and Hawaii, though, but I digress. Automakers build for California first, getting the biggest hurdle out of the way first, which forces the other U.S. States to adopt similar rules.
Back in June, the Environmental Protection Agency submitted the California waivers to Congress for a possible repeal. GM Authority picked up a Reuters report stating that the waivers are to be submitted to Congress under the CRA by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Historically, President Trump has also called for executive orders, congressional reviews, and federal lawsuits in a bid to block California's self-imposed emissions rules since his first term in office. Federal emissions standards have also been eased for internal combustion vehicles during his term, but California remains strict.
If you want to buy an electric vehicle, California is one of the best places to do it. The state is the most pro-EV state in the U.S. right now because getting around with battery power doesn't pay attention to the emissions laws. The state government also put in a bid to axe the sale of all new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035, which was rescinded by Congress in 2025.
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California Sues Back The state filed a federal lawsuit, claiming that the EPA's action of sending the waivers to the Senate for consideration under the CRA was illegal. The four senators pushing for this contended that California's emissions regulations affect other states.
Because California is the largest market for cars in the U.S., and because manufacturers have a big incentive to follow California's regulations, other states have no choice but to follow. Essentially, because of California's federal waiver, everyone's forced to follow the strictest of its regulations that cover commercial trucks, passenger vehicles, and even down to off-road vehicles and equipment like lawnmowers and other machines that run on fossil fuels.
If California were to keep its federal waiver, it's possible that the State will continue to hold a massive influence over the direction of the rest of the U.S. auto industry. However, if the waiver were to be repealed, the rest of the 49 states would have a more equal say in what passes and what doesn't.
Welcome to California state line signGetty
About 45% of the vehicles that will be sold in the U.S. this year will come with turbochargers, at least 7 million overall. And they’re a great way to balance performance and fuel economy. But turbos do have their drawbacks.
Stomp on the throttle from a dead stop and you may find yourself waiting for a moment before power fully kicks in. This unwelcome “turbo lag” is a result of the way turbochargers work. They depend on a build-up of exhaust gases to spin their turbines. In turn, that compresses the air going into the engine. But, when starting up from a stop when there isn’t much exhaust pressure, it takes time to “spool up” those turbos.
Automakers have tried a variety of different approaches, and achieved varying – if not entirely satisfactory – results. But SRT, the performance arm of Stellantis, thinks it may have a perfect solution. Its prototype eBoost Air system adds an electrically driven compressor that all but instantly delivers a powerful boost to the automaker’s six-cylinder Hurricane engine even as the powertrain’s twin turbos begin spooling up.
From concept to prototype A prototype version of the eBoost Air system shown mounted to the Jeep's Hurricane engine. SRT – which is short for Street and Racing Technology, is the division designed to boost performance for North American Stellantis brands Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram. It last year got its own team of engineers who broke off from the rest of the Euro-American automaker’s product development operations.
The eBoost Air system is one of their newest projects – and it reveals just how quickly this skunkworks team can operate. The technology was little more than a vague idea seven weeks ago, said Joel Baker, SRT’s vice president of product engineering. This week, the technology is being demonstrated in a running Jeep Grand Cherokee prototype.
What happens next depends upon how well the eBoost system works in real-world testing. But, considering that, of the 16.2 million vehicles sold in the U.S. last year, 45% were turbocharged, a solution to turbo lag could prove to be a popular feature – especially among performance drivers. “Enthusiasts aren’t interested in technology for the sake of technology,” said Tim Kuniskis, head of Stellantis’s American brands. “But when technology improves performance with no downside, they’re all in.”
How does eBoost Air work An eBoost Air compressor went from concept to prototype in just seven weeks using additive production technology. With a conventional turbocharged engine, air is sucked into the powertrain and then directed into turbos – of which there can be one or more. In the case of the Stellantis Hurricane engine there are two. Turbochargers are, at their most basic, compressors that spin up to increase the amount of air forced into an engine’s cylinders. The problem is that they’re normally powered by the gases coming out of the engine’s exhaust. And, at low speeds, like when the vehicle is starting out from a stoplight, there’s not much flowing out of the exhaust. So the turbos need time to build up speed and increase compression.
With eBoost a butterfly valve redirects the flow of intake air to a newly installed compressor positioned upstream of the turbos. Since it’s electrically powered it doesn’t depend upon exhaust gases and can add as much as 10 psi of boost in as little as 650 milliseconds. That’s enough to deliver 90% of a Hurricane engine’s torque, said Baker, calling it “a very simple, elegant solution.”
Once the engine’s turbos are spooled up and delivering full boost, the butterfly valve closes and the eBoost compressor goes into idle mode. But it can fire up again, all but instantly, whenever another quick shot of air is needed. That can happen whenever a driver slams the throttle, whether at a stoplight or when cruising down a highway.
What now? A screen capture shows a rendering of how the eBoost system works. SRT engineers were able to take the eBoost Air system from concept to prototype by using the latest in manufacturing technology, primarily 3D, or additive, prototyping. This allowed them to rapidly transform digital renderings of key parts – such as the exterior box and the compressor fan blades – into hard parts. Rapid prototyping can work with a variety of composites and metals.
The question is what happens next? In the coming months, Baker explained, SRT will test out the eBoost Air system both in the lab and on street and track courses to see not only how well it performs but whether it can hold up in aggressive driving conditions. Another challenge: determining how to provide power to the electric boost system. The initial prototype draws current from its own small battery connected to the Jeep’s alternator.
“We’re (also) studying the customer,” he added, to see if the benefits would justify the potential cost were it to go into production.
Production plans SRT engineers say they could use the e-Boost system on the 4-cylinder Hurricane, as well as the 6-cylinder package. “There’s no plans…for production,” he added. “Not yet.” But Baker’s boss, SRT chief Tom Sacoman, said there are clear opportunities for a solution like eBoost Air in the automotive performance market.
The good news, he said, is that the technology could be used on essentially any turbocharged powertrain, including the six-cylinder Hurricane engine used in a variety of Stellantis products, as well as the smaller Hurricane four-cylinder package.
Among the approaches SRT and the Stellantis brands will consider is the possibility of offering eBoost Air as a production option or as an aftermarket feature that could be sold through the automaker’s Direct Connect arm. Any final production decision would depend not only on whether the technology proves as effective as imagined but whether it is durable enough to last the life of an engine. There are also questions about the system’s impact on emissions and fuel economy to be considered.
As for cost? No one at SRT is ready to discuss that topic but Sam Abuelsamid, lead analyst with Telemetry Research and a former auto engineer, said it won’t come cheap. That could mean as much as $10,000 in a package that would include even larger and more powerful turbochargers.
The Camera That Never BlinksAI may bring several benefits, such as helping Nissan cut vehicle-development times by more than half, but the technology also comes with trade-offs. In the U.S., the expanding deployment of Flock cameras has raised privacy concerns because the system uses AI and machine learning to identify vehicles and make their movements searchable across a nationwide network. Sure, the system can help law enforcement track down criminals while saving time and resources, but in the wrong hands, that capability could be weaponized against individuals.
As a result, reports have emerged of people obstructing, damaging, and stealing the cameras. According to Good Morning America, law enforcement has warned of organized protests aimed at disabling the technology. About 120,000 Flock cameras have been deployed nationwide, and some critics have taken matters into their own hands, covering camera lenses with glue or obscuring their own license plates.
When the Wrong Person Has AccessThe issue became even more alarming after a now-former North Carolina police officer was arrested for allegedly accessing the Flock system about 30 times for personal reasons to track her boyfriend’s ex-wife. The technology could help reveal sensitive patterns in a person’s movements, including where they live and work, when misused by someone with access.
Two Ohio officers also resigned amid internal investigations into repeated license-plate searches that appeared to lack a legitimate law-enforcement purpose.
The backlash has also affected Flock’s business relationships. Amazon-owned home-security company Ring ended its planned integration with Flock earlier this year. The announcement followed intense privacy backlash after a Super Bowl ad demonstrated Ring’s AI-powered Search Party feature locating a lost dog through a network of participating cameras.
Flock
Can Safety and Privacy Share the Same Lane?Despite the mounting backlash, Flock envisions a future in which public safety and privacy can coexist. Stricter policies and greater oversight may be needed to govern who can access the nationwide network and how it can be used. For now, law-enforcement agencies have been urged to increase patrols around the cameras to prevent further vandalism.
Tracking is not the only concern surrounding AI-powered road cameras. Other automated systems can flag potential red-light violations far more efficiently than human monitoring, raising questions about accuracy and whether every citation is actually warranted.
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Design mimicry in the global automotive sector is hardly unprecedented, but the latest venture between Chinese auto giant Chery and tech powerhouse Huawei pushes the boundary further. The Luxeed RX borrows key exterior design elements and proportions directly from the Ferrari Purosangue. So much so that in June 2026, a Luxeed executive claimed on Weibo that they had hired a "former Ferrari chief designer" to pen the RX, a claim Ferrari explicitly denied, leading to the post's swift deletion. Regardless of the design controversy, Luxeed has managed to package exotic Italian crossover styling into a domestic electric vehicle slated to sell at a tiny fraction of Maranello's asking price.
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article* Underneath The PlagiarismWhile the sheet metal on this new SUV clearly echoes an exotic supercar-inspired crossover, the architecture beneath relies strictly on modern battery-electric hardware. Luxeed offers the RX in both single motor rear-drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive configurations across three distinct battery offerings. The entry-level variant uses an 81.1-kWh pack linked to a rear motor outputting a respectable 371 horsepower. Those seeking acceleration to match the vehicle’s low-slung stance can step up to the dual-motor model, which produces a combined 585 horsepower.
Battery options expand up to a pair of 100-kWh packs supplied across different chemistry specifications. Under China’s optimistic CLTC testing standard, maximum driving range reaches up to 529 miles (852 km) on a single charge. Beyond the powertrain figures, the vehicle features functional aerodynamic and tech upgrades, including flush flap-style door handles, an aggressive front fascia with dark trim accents, and a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor dedicated to advanced driver-assistance systems.
Market Segment and PricingThe starkest contrast between the Luxeed RX and its Italian inspiration lies in market positioning and price. A factory-fresh Ferrari Purosangue demands upwards of $400,000, placing it strictly in ultra-luxury territory. By comparison, official pricing for the Luxeed RX is expected to align with rivals such as the Xiaomi YU7, hovering around RMB 253,500—or approximately $37,000 USD. Whether viewed as an unabashed facsimile or a pragmatic engineering alternative, the Luxeed RX demonstrates how regularly Chinese manufacturers are delivering high-performance specs and exotic aesthetics for the mass market.
Ford isn't exactly famous for building supercars. The GT is one of the rare occasions when the Blue Oval decided to push its limits, creating a modern tribute to the legendary GT40. The first-generation Ford GT quickly became one of the most celebrated analog driver's cars ever made, thanks to its mid-mounted V8, six-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, and lack of practicality or driver aids.
Now, one exceptionally preserved example has shown just how much collectors are willing to pay for one. This 2006 Ford GT Heritage Edition with just 8 miles sold on Bring a Trailer for an astonishing $2,101,000, becoming the most expensive Ford GT ever sold
Just 8 Miles On The Clock Bring a Trailer
Bring a Trailer
Bring a Trailer
The car's biggest selling point is how little use it has seen. This Heritage Edition has covered just 7.9 miles in two decades. It is one of only 343 Heritage Edition cars built and wears the instantly recognizable blue-and-orange Gulf-inspired livery. Mechanically, however, it is identical to the regular GT, packing a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 producing 550 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque.
Optional BBS forged wheels and a McIntosh stereo round out the specification. Ford built just over 4,000 first-generation GTs before production ended in 2006, with the second-generation car arriving in 2017.
Double The Average, Including Wall Art Bring a Trailer
Bring a Trailer
Bring a Trailer
The final price is wild even by GT standards. Classic.com's current data puts the average first-gen GT sale at around $535,000, while the average Heritage Edition sells for $945,000. This car more than doubled that figure, with almost 1,800 comments appearing on its auction listing.
The sale also included a half-car wall display made by Saleen, using the same serial number as the GT. Still, $2.1 million is an absurd amount when you consider what else that money can buy. For much less than $2.1 million, you could find a McLaren Senna GTR, while the same money could have bought a Bugatti Veyron.
The Ford GT Has Become Priceless Bring a Trailer
Bring a Trailer
Bring a Trailer
There is a reason the GT commands such attention. Some of the biggest petrolheads have owned one, including Jeremy Clarkson, whose GT changed hands earlier this year, and Doug DeMuro.
Ford has also kept the name firmly associated with outrageous performance. Despite no longer making a road-going version, the track-only GT Mk IV recently became the fastest combustion-powered car around the Nürburgring, recording a 6:15.977 lap. On top of that, Ford is developing a new Hypercar entrant for next year's 24 Hours of Le Mans, which should share some DNA with the GT.
And now that many of those who once had posters of the Ford GT up on their bedroom walls have serious money, cars like this $2.1 million Heritage Edition prove that 2000s supercars are becoming increasingly more valuable.
Don't Fix What Isn't BrokenHyundaifacelifted its popular Tucson crossover last year, and the 2026 Tucson carries over unchanged. If you weren't looking at them next to each other, the updated Tucson doesn't look drastically different than the previous one, and that's by design. An all-new model is currently in development but customers liked how the existing Tucson looks, so Hyundai didn't feel the need to radically change the exterior styling.
Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog
*View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article* If you were curious about the exterior updates, the 2025 Tucson received a slightly revised front end with an updated lighting signature (now with eight light areas instead of 10) and some different wheels. The bigger improvements take place inside, where Hyundai proved it actually listens to what customers write in those feedback surveys.
The Buttons And Knobs Are BackHigher trims of the pre-facelift Tucson were saddled annoying touch-capacitive controls for functions like the climate and audio. The updated model receives a big update to the interior, which feels highly inspired by models like the Ioniq 5. There's a simpler steering wheel, a more open center console, a much to the delight of previous Tucson owners, more real buttons and knobs.
Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog
*View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article* Hyundai gives drivers quick access to menus via physical shortcut buttons, and volume and tuning knobs now make basic audio functions easier than before. A new 12.3-inch touchscreen is paired with either a 12.3-inch gauge cluster or smaller 4.2-inch multi-information display, and looks more modern than the previous split setup. Lastly, we love the openness of the center console, and how much space it provides for items like phones and keys; there's also a handy shelf in front of the passenger.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/7529drHNTk0
Every Powertrain Is CoveredHyundai knows not every driver is ready to switch to an electric vehicle, which is why the Tucson still comes in gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid versions. The gas model is not our favorite with its lackluster 187-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder and clunky eight-speed automatic, but at least Hyundai gives buyers the choice.
Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog
*View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article* We much prefer the Tucson Hybrid, which swaps the 2.5-liter for a smaller 1.6-liter turbo-four that delivers 231 hp when combined with the electric motor. It's also far more fuel efficient, netting 36 mpg combined compared to 26 mpg in the all-wheel-drive gas model.
There's also a PHEV, with boosts the total output to 268 hp and adds a 32-mile electric range from a 13.8 kWh battery. This is a decent power bump, but it's not enough to offset the battery weight, and the Tucson PHEV took 7.14 seconds to hit 60 mph in our testing. For reference, the latest Toyota RAV4 PHEV takes just 5.4 seconds since it produces 324 hp.
Just Get The HybridThough it wasn't the most drastic facelift, we didn't think the Tucson needed to be changed much. It was already a great crossover that's now even better because Hyundai listened to customer feedback.
Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog
*View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article* We think the Tucson Hybrid is the sweet spot in the lineup, prices from around $30,950 for the base SE up to $41,825 for the loaded Limited. The PHEV takes a large leap in price, starting at $40,325 for the SEL and $48,550 for the Limited. Even if you have a short commute to take full advantage of the 32-mile range, it would take a long time to offset the $6,725 premium. There used to be a $7,500 federal tax credit that would have made the PHEV a no-brainer, but now that it's gone, we find them more difficult to recommend.
If you sat in a new Mercedes-Benz vehicle recently, you’ve noticed that there are more screens than ever before—and their size has expanded massively too from only a few years ago.
The tri-screen MBUX Hyperscreen setup, for example, which can measure up to 56 inches wide in some high-end models, is the largest display in a Mercedes-Benz production car, spanning from one side to the other of the dashboard.
Mercedes-Benz CEO Realizes Things Might Have Gone A Bit Too Far Mercedes-Benz VLEMercedes-Benz
Screen-heavy interiors have been criticized in recent years by customers because they have led to a massive reduction in the number of physical buttons. With an increasing number of controls moved from real switches to screens, it’s not surprising that many owners have complained about this.
Speaking recently with British car media, Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius has acknowledged such concerns, noting that “the industry as a while might have gone a little bit too far” toward digital controls, noting that the Stuttgart-based automaker is trying to fix things in this respect.
The executive told Autocar that Mercedes-Benz is bringing back actual buttons such as physical controls on the steering wheels of its cars. “Sometimes you get a bit ahead of yourself and do technology for the sake of technology and maybe forget a little bit about the customer. So from now on, you will see us reintroduce the most sensible buttons,” Källenius said.
Ola Källenius Doesn't Think Mercedes Is "At Maximum Screen" Mercedes EQS 580 4MATIC interior with MBUX Hyperscreen setup Sadly, that’s where the good news ends for drivers who prefer physical buttons to screens. Mercedes’ head honcho suggests we've seen nothing yet when it comes to screens. “I don’t think we’re at maximum screen, but we are at low buttons,” Källenius told Auto Express when asked how Mercedes interiors would continue to evolve from the current models.
Does that mean Mercedes-Benz may put even more screens inside its cars? On a vehicle fitted with the full-size MBUX Hyperscreen (and even the smaller Superscreen setup found in cars like the new CLA), it’s hard to imagine where more screens could fit besides the center console. On the door cards? On the headliner?
Mercedes-Benz
It remains to be seen, but until then, you should know that Källenius is very proud of the latest displays found in current Mercedes-Benz models, even though their arrival has coincided with a drastic reduction in the number of physical buttons. The latest CLA, for example, features just four buttons, a volume scroller, and the hazard switch; for everything else, the driver needs to access the display.
"We spend countless hours on UI [user interface]. I spend hours every year discussing this with our engineers and we joke it needs to be so easy that either a five-year-old kid or a Mercedes board member can use it,” Källenius told Autocar. “That is the hurdle, and once you familiarize yourself with it, it becomes second nature.”
Does it indeed? Owners of latest-generation Mercedes vehicles, feel free to chime in.
Toyota's Tune Changes Depending on the MarketEarlier this year, Toyota made it clear that it wasn't losing sleep over China's growing wave of affordable vehicles. Company executives argued that low prices alone wouldn't be enough to challenge Toyota's reputation for quality, reliability, and long-term ownership experience.
But in South Africa, the tune changes. At the launch of the new Toyota RAV4, the brand’s local PR boss Riaan Esterhuysen admitted Chinese brands have turned the entry-level market upside down. Rather than wading into a price war, Toyota is pushing its famous SUV upmarket, aiming for a different crowd.
Toyota
Why the New RAV4 Is Going More PremiumThis all came up when journalists started poking at the big price jump across the new RAV4 lineup, according to Bizcommunity.
Esterhuysen made it clear: the price hike is no accident. Toyota wants the RAV4 to grow up and hang with the premium crowd, not scrap it out at the bargain end. And yes, he admitted, the rise of Chinese brands had a lot to do with that call.
"We cannot compete with the emerging Chinese brands directly on an entry-level price point," Esterhuysen said. He added that these automakers have effectively reshaped the South African market by pulling buyers toward lower and mid-tier new vehicles while also convincing used-car shoppers to purchase brand-new models instead.
Toyota
The US Is Different, But Not Entirely IsolatedDon't expect Toyota South Africa's playbook to work in the US. Thanks to hefty tariffs, Chinese-branded cars are still locked out of American showrooms.
But it's tough to ignore the global picture. Chinese automakers are spreading fast – Latin America, Southeast Asia, Australia, Europe, you name it. Mexico is a hotbed for growth, and even Canada lets Chinese-built cars in under different rules than the US.
So the pressure isn't going anywhere. It's just building outside America's borders for now. Even Ford has sounded the alarm, warning that Chinese brands won't stay away forever. Toyota's South African comments are just the latest sign that, in plenty of places, the future is already here.
Toyota
Mercedes has a very expensive badge problem on its handsMercedes-AMG owners generally expect their cars to deliver blistering performance and luxurious interiors. They probably don't expect the AMG badge on the seat to become a source of injury. But that's exactly what two drivers allege in a new federal lawsuit against Mercedes-Benz. The class-action lawsuit claims that raised metallic AMG emblems embedded in certain Mercedes seats can become dangerously hot when exposed to direct sunlight. According to the plaintiffs, the badges can retain enough heat to cause burns when they come into contact with a driver's or passenger's skin. It's an oddly specific problem for a brand that spends enormous amounts of money engineering virtually every detail of its cars.
How A Seat Badge Can Get So Hot KarinaBath/YouTube
The alleged issue stems from the badges themselves. Unlike a printed or stitched logo, the affected AMG emblems use metal, which can absorb and retain heat when the car sits in direct sunlight. That makes the badge a potential localized hot spot even when the surrounding seat isn't nearly as hot.
One plaintiff alleges that the badge became hot enough to leave an AMG-shaped burn mark on her skin. It’s a particularly ridiculous issue because it turns one of Mercedes' most recognizable performance symbols into the source of the problem. The lawsuit claims Mercedes knew or should have known about the potential risk but continued using the design. If the allegations are ultimately substantiated, the case could raise questions about how seemingly cosmetic components are evaluated for occupant safety.
The AMG Badge Is Now The Center Of A Lawsuit
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The case also highlights an awkward reality of modern luxury cars: even tiny decorative details can create unexpected engineering problems. Mercedes spends years developing AMG powertrains capable of producing hundreds of horsepower, yet the lawsuit alleges that a piece of branding inside the cabin can become a hazard under the right conditions.
The plaintiffs are seeking class-action status and damages, although the allegations have yet to be proven in court. Mercedes will have an opportunity to respond as the case progresses, and the lawsuit itself does not establish that every vehicle equipped with the badges presents a safety hazard. For Mercedes-AMG owners, however, the lawsuit raises a remarkably simple question: how did a badge end up being the hottest thing about the car?
The era of accessible transportation is effectively dead, and buyers are feeling the crushing financial strain. Because affordable cars have vanished from dealership lots, desperate Americans are forced to sign massive loans just to get behind the wheel. The barrier to entry keeps rising at an alarming pace, leaving families with few options but to secure reliable transportation regardless of the brutal monthly payment.
As transaction prices stay at astronomical heights, consumers are stretching their budgets to the breaking point. We are witnessing an unprecedented affordability crisis sweeping the automotive sector. Recent Edmunds data exposes the harsh reality that modern buyers are drowning in long-term debt. This overextension leaves households incredibly vulnerable, leading to catastrophic financial hardships whenever unexpected economic hurdles inevitably strike.
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Behind the Spike in Vehicle RepossessionsAccording to a report from Automotive News, the situation on the front lines of auto finance is growing chaotic. Robert Plants, operations manager at New York Repo, has been incredibly busy recently. At his agency alone, vehicle repossessions surged a staggering 20 percent between May 2025 and May 2026. This sudden rise in volume of defaults paints a grim picture of the current economic climate.
Plants directly attributed much of this spike to skyrocketing fuel costs following recent geopolitical turmoil involving Iran. As gas prices surge, even standard daily drivers and popular crossovers are becoming a massive financial burden. The average consumer is legitimately struggling to keep their head above water, and missing just a single paycheck can result in losing their vehicle.
Repossessions remain the absolute third rail of the auto industry. The ordeal is expensive, complicated, and undeniably traumatic, demanding significant time and energy from lenders, forwarders, and repo agents. Lenders frequently lose money on these operations while battling compliance challenges. Danielle Arlowe of the American Financial Services Association stated that repossession is an absolute last resort, emphasizing how much creditors want to avoid it.
Slate Auto
The Long-Term Fallout for Lenders and DriversLooking ahead, the boomerang effect of this crisis is bound to hit the auto industry hard. Financial institutions might initially enjoy the gains of high-interest loans, but the expense of recovering defaulted vehicles is catching up. Furthermore, impending trade regulations and tech bans threaten to drive manufacturing costs higher. This practically ensures that bloated sticker prices won't cool down anytime soon.
In the brutal world of automotive finance, what goes around comes around. While federal enforcement on aggressive lending has weakened, industry insiders warn that lenders could face severe regulatory consequences down the road. The high costs passed on to consumers are creating additional complexities for the institutions that issued the debt. Both consumers and lenders remain trapped in this vicious cycle.
The LFA’s Powertrain Plot TwistThere’s a new Lexus LFA coming – that much is clear. It’s gorgeous and has plenty of the visual drama you would expect from a modern halo car, at least in concept form, although it came with one polarizing detail: it was announced to be a fully electric supercar.
But now, a report out of Japan claims Lexus might be changing course. Best Car says the next LFA could show up as a plug-in hybrid instead of going full EV.
There’s a pretty important disclaimer here, though. The Japanese publication has a knack for mixing dealer-level information, wild predictions, and unsubstantiated speculation, so we advise taking this with a dash of table salt.
Lexus
From Electric Supercar To Plug-In Hybrid?The prediction, as conveyed in a recent YouTube video about the report, gets a little murky. Best Car reportedly identifies a plug-in hybrid setup as the likely direction, while also acknowledging that the LFA has been tested in battery-electric form.
This leaves us with two options: either Lexus is rethinking its EV game plan, or the final powertrain is still up in the air because the production car is nowhere near ready. Another possibility involves solid-state batteries, which could eventually make the all-electric idea work. Bottom line: the LFA’s powertrain saga is anything but settled.
A plug-in hybrid supercar isn’t exactly a tragedy. Lamborghini’s already shown with the Temerario that hybrids can pack a serious punch (even quicker than the Revuelto flagship) and still keep an engine behind the seats. The real question is: is that what LFA fans are actually looking for?
Lexus
The Shadow Of The Original LFAThe original LFA is a tough act to follow, and not just because of its spec sheet. That screaming, Yamaha-tuned V10 was the heart and soul of the car. Throw in a featherweight carbon-fiber body and a wild, high-revving personality, and you had something that stood out from the usual supercar crowd.
That’s why the idea of a heavier, more complicated plug-in hybrid LFA might not sit well with purists. Sure, more power and quicker sprints are great, but extra batteries and technology could take the car further from the sheer magic that made the first LFA so special.
Still, the new LFA isn’t just vaporware. A camouflaged prototype already tore up the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed, and its shape looks a lot like the concept we’ve seen.
As for the plug-in hybrid talk, remember: it’s all still rumor territory. In the end, the new LFA’s fate probably hinges less on what keyboard warriors think and more on what the deep-pocketed buyers actually want in their next supercar.
Lexus
*View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article*
On a RollMercedes-Benz is determined to sell more cars than ever. After all, it's been years since it's ahead of BMW, and the company would like its sales crown back. This year has seen the launch of several all-new and updated models. It's not just from the core lineup, either, as AMG and Maybach have been doing their part, too.
AMG, in particular, has been on a roll. There was the GT 4-Door from earlier this year, along with the return of six-cylinder power in the GLC with the GLC 53. AMG's commitment to V8 power has been reassured in the new GLE 63 and GLS 63, and more recently, the CLA 45 made its world premiere as a baby GT 4-Door. Let's not forget there are more on the way, too, namely the updated S 63 and the CLE 63 Mythos.
Mercedes-Benz/Facebook
Another Day, Another New AMGSo far, there are five new AMG models that have joined the lineup in eight months. Some are expected, while others are genuine surprises. For its next world premiere, it falls in the latter camp.
Mercedes-AMG recently posted a teaser of a new model in its socials. So far, it doesn't have a name yet, nor has a launch date been locked it. That said, we have a sneaking suspicion that it's a GT SUV given the profile under the blanket. Perhaps it was inevitable, although this looks like atonement for the AMG EQE SUV.
Mercedes-Benz/Facebook
What to ExpectOf course, it's not confirmed by AMG if it is, indeed, a GT SUV, but the roof rails peeking through don't lie. We can at least confirm that it's a crossover, but the name is yet to be determined. Also, the side profile suggests it will have a fastback body, and the tail lights give it a connection to the GT 4-Door.
If it is the GT SUV, it could be based off the 4-Door model utilziling the AMG.EA architecture. If so, it'll benefit from the axial-flux batteries, along with a tri-motor arrangement in its most potent form. We might see an 'entry-level' dual-motor model like the GT 53 4-Door with at least 536 hp, but it won't be too surprising if the 63 version will pack over 1,000 hp.
In the meantime, we wait for the covers to be pulled for the full reveal. Given that it's been teased, the premiere might just be a few weeks or days away.
Mercedes-Benz/Facebook
Honda has outsourced the development of its new vehicle program to India-based Tata Technologies, which is owned by the same conglomerate that owns Jaguar Land-Rover (JLR), and also builds the world's most efficient electric vehicles. The decision marks a significant change in operations for the Japanese automaker, which has historically kept its core engineering and platform development in-house or strictly within its legacy supplier network.
Tata
Given Tata's history of being able to develop versatile vehicle platforms that can underpin both internal combustion and battery electric products, such as its own All-terrain Ready, Omni-Energy and Geometry Scalable Architecture or "ARGOS" platform, it makes sense for Honda to hand over development for its own multi-powertrain vehicle platform. The move comes as Honda overhauls its global product roadmap and seeks aggressive cost-cutting measures to address profitability following its first annual loss since its founding in 1948.
Honda's Historic Shift In The MakingAccording to Bloomberg, the Tata-engineered platform is being designed for versatility. It is expected to underpin multiple upcoming car models and is specifically intended to accommodate both conventional internal combustion engines and next-generation electrified powertrains, spanning hybrids and fully electric vehicles.
Honda
While Honda has historically guarded its core platform engineering strictly in-house, viewing it as the bedrock of its brand identity, delegating this program to Tata Technologies represents a historic operational shift. By leveraging specialized external partnerships, Honda aims to rapidly strengthen its competitive edge in a fast-evolving global auto market, especially while it tries to correct course. The specific consumer markets where these forthcoming Tata-engineered vehicles will ultimately be sold have not yet been officially disclosed by either company.
Tata Group Is Asserting Dominance Everywhere Tata
The Honda deal is just one facet of the Tata Group's rapidly expanding technological influence. In a separate monumental development, Tata Electronics recently finalized a strategic partnership with the Dutch semiconductor equipment giant ASML, securing access to its highly coveted and restricted lithography technology. This historic agreement allows Tata to acquire the specialized ASML machines necessary to establish India’s first 300mm commercial chip fab in Dholera, Gujarat, effectively embedding the Indian conglomerate into the world's most advanced semiconductor global supply chain, alongside Tata's automotive, consultancy, financial services and more.
The Age Of CollusionThese cross-industry milestones underscore Tata's ascent from a regional manufacturing powerhouse to a globally trusted engineering linchpin. For Honda, the collaboration promises to accelerate critical product development cycles while simultaneously keeping overhead costs in check, setting the stage for a highly anticipated new generation of versatile and economically viable vehicles built as a result of productive and mutually beneficial partnerships.
Price WarEVs haven't necessarily enjoyed the best sales numbers at the beginning of the year; however, with a never-ending fuel price crisis, suddenly people are coming back to them for a second look. Hybrids and EVs are the kings of the global car market now, with most manufacturers reporting electrified vehicle sales having increased as a direct effect of fuel prices.
However, with the first half of the year passing by, hybrids seem to have the edge in terms of sales against EVs. Yet, in other emerging markets outside of the U.S., EV adoption continues to rise, and it's driving prices lower than hybrids.
BYD
China Number 1According to a study by analytics firm Mobility Global, the global price average of EVs is now significantly lower than that of hybrids, Nikkei Asia reports. EV prices average around $37,000, which is 9% lower than in 2020, while hybrid average prices rose 16% over that time period to an average of $39,000. These figures were computed by accounting for sticker prices without subsidies and also based on sales volume.
There are a few key factors that have helped EVs become more affordable, like the emergence of cheaper battery technology, plus the rapid growth of China's EV manufacturing capabilities. Looking at the numbers, prices for lithium-ion, a key component of EV batteries, have dropped 37% between 2020 and 2025. Most EV makers have also moved away from using cobalt in batteries, opting for lithium-iron phosphate (LFP) instead, which has improved over time through development.
Overseas expansion has also played a huge part, with Chinese brands like BYD able to build all components of their EVs and ship them to Southeast Asia, where the brand is penetrating the region at a steady pace. In that region, Chinese EVs cost lower or at par with hybrids, giving buyers an option of going full EV. BYD and other manufacturers have even begun to set up manufacturing facilities in the region, which will continue to drive prices lower.
Shell
Rethinking StrategyThe biggest disruption comes at the more mass market side of the business; the legacy Japanese brands have been forced to rethink their strategies to stay competitive in a vital region. Toyota, the biggest skeptic for EVs, has pushed for a multi-pathway approach offering BEVs alongside the brand's more established HEVs. Nissan has stepped it up even further by beginning to export Chinese-made EVs to other markets.
Forecasts point towards high sales for electrified mobility in 2026; the International Energy Agency expects EVs and plug-in hybrids to account for 30% of all car sales this year.
Tata
A Basic Safety Feature, Now With a TwistSeat belts are supposed to be the no-brainer safety feature – click, tug, and you’re good to go. But what if the belt itself decides to throw a curveball and doesn’t work the way it’s supposed to?
That’s exactly what’s happening with the latest recall for the outgoing Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Tonale. According to the NHTSA document, some rear seat belts can get twisted up during use – definitely not what you want in a crash.
All told, 48,777 vehicles are affected – 40,386 Dodge Hornets and 8,391 Alfa Romeo Tonales. That’s a lot of seat belts with commitment issues.
Stellantis
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article* How the Seat Belt Problem Was FoundIf you’re wondering if your SUV is on the list, here’s the breakdown: Hornets built between August 31, 2022 and September 18, 2025, and Tonales from February 9, 2023 to November 26, 2025. After those dates, new seat belt retractors went in, so the problem should be sorted for newer builds.
Here’s the gist: if the rear seat belt gets twisted, it might not retract or stay tight against you. In a crash, that could mean the belt doesn’t hold you in place like it should, upping the risk of injury. There’s no dashboard warning or obvious sign, so you probably wouldn’t know there’s a problem until it’s too late.
The problem first popped up when FCA US tipped off Stellantis Europe in April 2026 about a possible seat belt retractor glitch. After some digging and a few months of engineering detective work, they traced it back to a design weakness that can show up under certain conditions.
By the end of July, FCA US had logged 484 warranty claims, but no one had actually reported injuries or accidents tied to the issue. So far, it’s just a paperwork headache, not a safety disaster.
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article* The Fix Is a New Seat Belt RetractorThe fix is simple: FCA US will swap out the faulty rear seat belt retractors for new ones. There is also a separate recall covering 1,458 MOPAR rear outboard seat belt assemblies that may have the same twisting issue. That campaign calls for affected assemblies to be inspected and, when installed on a vehicle, have the retractor replaced. Uninstalled assemblies are subject to repurchase.
Dealers should get the heads-up by August 13, 2026, and owners will start seeing notifications by late September. You’ll be able to check your VIN for recall status starting August 13.
If you drive a Hornet or Tonale, check your VIN as soon as the system goes live and follow FCA US’s instructions. Don’t assume your seat belt is fine just because it looks okay – better safe than sorry.
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article*
Subaru is riding high on a wave of massive showroom success, but the automaker is currently gearing up for an even bigger behind-the-scenes transformation. Driven by a recent sales surge fueled largely by the unstoppable Forester and Crosstrek, the Japanese brand is officially bringing its money-lending operations in-house. It is a massive structural shift for a company that has historically relied on third-party partners to handle the financial heavy lifting.
The timing of this pivot is particularly fascinating. With the brand previously addressing how inflation and supply chain headaches have led to rising sticker prices, taking control of the financing pipeline gives the automaker a vital tool to manage customer affordability. Subaru Corp and Subaru of America are betting big that a direct financial relationship will keep buyers coming back to the dealership long after the initial sale.
Subaru
Leveraging Financial PartnershipThe official announcement confirms that Subaru will build its captive finance business from the ground up to supply retail loans, leases, and floor plan financing directly to customers and retailers. However, this massive transition will not happen overnight. The company has set a target launch date of 2030. To maintain stability during the build-out, Subaru of America is extending its longstanding partnership with Chase, ensuring uninterrupted service for the current Subaru Motors Finance division. Existing customers will see absolutely no changes to their current loans.
Leadership is pitching this as a major win for brand-consumer relations. Yoichi Hori, Chairman and CEO of Subaru of America, emphasized that entering the captive finance space will directly support their retail network while providing long-term value for stakeholders. Hori noted that the move represents a strategic opportunity to generate future growth while keeping a laser focus on maintaining their legendary customer loyalty.
Jeff Walters, President and COO, echoed that sentiment, calling it a forward-looking maneuver that gives the automaker a much stronger U.S. foothold. Walters pointed out that maintaining Chase as a transitional partner guarantees stability and reassures stakeholders that Subaru is committed to building a reliable, lasting platform. The ultimate goal is to own the complete lifecycle of the buyer's journey, from the showroom floor to the final lease return.
Subaru
More Debt in the PotSubaru is essentially reading the writing on the wall. The broader economic landscape is treacherous, and the current auto loan crisis is exposing the risks of leaving consumer financing entirely in the hands of traditional megabanks. By establishing a captive lender, Subaru can offer heavily subvented leases and special APR deals when the market softens, moving metal off the lot even when interest rates remain aggressively high.
But launching an in-house lending arm by 2030 isn't without serious risks. We are looking at an incredibly volatile credit market plagued by soaring delinquency rates that act as a massive economic warning sign. Subaru will have to build a bulletproof risk assessment infrastructure over the next six years to avoid holding the bag on bad debt. If they pull it off, they will unlock a massive new revenue stream. If they miscalculate, they will be taking on billions in liability just as the American consumer taps out.
Subaru
Just a Dressed-Up CivicEver since the Honda Prelude returned, the internet's been quick to call it a Civic in a fancy suit. Sure, there's some truth there, but that's not the whole story. Under the skin, the Prelude grabs more than just the Civic's bones – it nabs a bunch of Type R hardware too. We're talking dual-axis front suspension, adaptive dampers, and a faster steering rack, all straight from the Civic Type R.
Does all that Type R DNA make the Prelude worth its $42,000 sticker? That's a debate for another day. What matters is Honda set out to make this front-wheel-drive hybrid act like a real-deal sports coupe, not just an eco-friendly commuter.
So, did Honda actually pull it off? Spain's km77 crew put the Prelude through their brutal slalom and moose test gauntlet – the same tests that have embarrassed everything from cheap hatchbacks to six-figure supercars.
Seriously Impressive RunThrough km77's slalom test, the Prelude immediately shone. According to the tester, power came on smoothly, no wheelspin drama off the line, and the steering was quick, direct, and barely needed a flick between cones. Testers also pointed out that body roll was kept in check.
The real challenge came during the moose test. Flicked into Sport mode, and the adaptive dampers tightened up, cutting down on body wobble during those quick left-right flicks. The result? The Prelude sailed through the course at 50 mph (80 km/h), clearing every single cone without needing wild steering corrections.
Sure, 50 mph might not sound like headline news, but in km77's massive database, that puts the Prelude ahead of plenty of pricier, more powerful cars. Testers also tried pushing past that figure, but the Continental PremiumContact 6 tires finally cried uncle.
At higher speeds, the Prelude started clipping cones and the stability control quietly stepped in. Even then, the car stayed predictable and easy to reel back in – no sudden snap oversteer or nasty surprises.
km77/YouTube
Why The Moose Test MattersOriginally developed in Sweden, the moose test simulates a driver making an emergency lane change to avoid a large animal (e.g., a moose) before immediately returning to the original lane. This scenario, of course, closely mirrors evasive maneuvers around road debris or an unexpected obstacle at highway speeds.
Over the years, the test has become one of the industry's most respected demonstrations of chassis balance and emergency handling. It has also embarrassed some notable vehicles. Perhaps the most famous casualty was the first-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class in 1997, which rolled over during testing and forced Mercedes to redesign the suspension and make electronic stability control standard equipment. More recently, several SUVs and pickups have struggled to match the speeds achieved by well-sorted passenger cars.
The Prelude's numbers won't end the arguments about its price or front-wheel-drive setup, but one thing's clear: Honda's engineers made sure this hybrid coupe acts way more like a sports car than the spec sheet lets on.
km77/YouTube
GM and China Go a Long WayAs far back as the 1910s, General Motors had some form of presence in China. It was Buick that helped plant the seeds of GM in the Middle Kingdom, which explains why the name holds prominence over there. GM was also instrumental in the growth of the Chinese auto industry way back in the '90s.
Again, it was Buick that led efforts in China, in cooperation with Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation, better known today as SAIC. Today, the SAIC-GM joint venture doesn't just help the American automaker's presence in China, but it has grown to include even more brands.
Buick
An Unprecedented MoveRecently, the two companies renewed their joint venture in a signing ceremony held on August 5. There, SAIC and GM agreed to extend their cooperation for the next 20 years, all the way through 2047. It's a move that's the first of its kind in the country, and with 30 years of working together, this partnership will collectively last 50 years at the very least.
"Today's agreement reflects our shared confidence in SAIC-GM and its long-term growth potential. We are committed to strong performance in the China market, and we see meaningful opportunities to compete in select international markets: the Middle East, Africa, South America, Mexico and Asia-Pacific," said John Roth, GM Senior Vice President and President of GM China.
This isn't just GM's way of effectively guaranteeing its place in the Chinese auto industry. With SAIC's reach, especially around Asia, it should bolster the stock of both automakers. GM is looking like SAIC's additional avenue to export more models out of the domestic market. It's something the Chinese conglomerate needs, too, given that home market sales have reached a saturation point.
Keeping Buick AliveThe extension of the agreement does mean another thing: Buick isn't going away for a long time. While sales have been steady but unspectacular in the U.S, the American brand continues to thrive and evolve in China. Granted, the new wave of Chinese cars has eroded the marque's once-dominant status, but it's still held in high regard.
With that, SAIC-GM has a lot in store for Buick in the coming years. Buick's China-only Electra sub-brand will be further expanded, and given 'China Speed,' the future generations of these models are pretty much guaranteed at this point. The Electra lineup currently consists of battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid vehicles, and extended range electric vehicles. At the same time, Buick as a whole still offers pure combustion vehicles and is still continuously updating these.
There's also a special mention of the Buick Electra E7, the brand's top-selling model. The Electra E7 will soon start being exported to select markets, expanding Buick's reach beyond American and Chinese borders, which will hopefully bear fruit for both GM and SAIC. SAIC-GM will be putting greater focus on Buick and Cadillac, with the promise of launching 30 new models before the end of the decade. If it all goes to plan, those might be for export, too.
Buick
The Family BusinessThe names Porsche and Piëch will forever be linked to Volkswagen. After all, it was Ferdinand Porsche who laid down the foundations for Europe's biggest automotive empire (and the eventual sports car company), while the collective bloodline of the Porsche-Piëch families has always had a stake in the company. One can say that anyone with that last name is bound to work in the family business.
But as the current patriarchs may soon retire, the dynasty may soon make way for a new generation. However, the question now is who from the dynasty will be named the successors on the company's supervisory board.
Mlenny / Getty Images
Changing of the GuardAutomotive News reports that Wolfgang Porsche and Hans Michel Piëch will not be seeking another term on the Volkswagen Group's supervisory board. Piëch is currently the deputy chairman of the supervisory board of Porsche Automobil Holding SE, while Porsche is the chairman of the same board. Both are in their 80s and nearing the end of their current terms in the company. There are a couple of family members in the running to succeed them, and it comes at a crucial time for the company.
The Volkswagen Group is facing one of its toughest challenges to date. Tumbling profits, lower sales, and the loss of its hold in China have heavily impacted its bottom line. Right now, the group is taking extreme measures to return to greater profitability. Mind you, VW is still making money and isn't incurring heavy losses, but it will be if the downward trend persists.
Moritz Frankenberg/picture alliance via Getty Images
The CandidatesThe publication mentioned Ferdinand Oliver Porsche as one of the leading candidates. He is Wolfgang Porsche's nephew and is currently a member of the supervisory board. If ever, his appointment as chairman seems the most logical given the line of succession within the company's ranks.
However, either one of Ferdinand Oliver Porsche's sons may also be in the running for the chairmanship. Ferdinand Rudolf Wolfgang Porsche and Felix Alexander Porsche are also board members like their uncle, and are much younger. The brothers are aged 33 and 30, respectively, while their uncle is 65 years old.
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A Fresh Set of EyesThe possibility of someone outside of the Porsche-Piëch family being named chairman has also been floated around. If ever, it won't be the first time that would happen, as Automotive News cites German industrialist Klaus Liesen as an example. He led the board from 1987 to 2002, working closely with Ferdinand Piëch.
So far, there are no outsider candidates being mentioned in German media. That said, going for one could provide a wider perspective and be the help the board needs moving forward.
Sean Gallup/Getty Images
When the Good Stuff Went MainstreamThere was a time when features like large infotainment screens and heated seats were largely reserved for models from premium automotive brands. Now, an abundance of in-car technology has become the bare minimum for staying competitive, a shift that should be a welcome development for car buyers.
As a result, however, premium car brands such as Cadillac and Lincoln may be losing some of their appeal. According to an Automotive OEM Intelligence Report from J.D. Power, more premium-vehicle owners traded their vehicles for mainstream models in the first half of 2026. The report said premium brands, excluding direct-to-consumer automakers, made up 13.3% of new-vehicle sales in H1 2026, down from 13.8% a year earlier – the segment’s smallest share since 2020.
Lincoln
The Badge Isn’t Holding Them BackLooking at the numbers, 32% of consumers trading in a midsize premium SUV purchased a vehicle from a non-luxury brand. Midsize premium SUVs are said to be the top-selling premium market segment, where models such as the BMW X5, Lexus RX, and Lincoln Nautilus compete. Mainstream midsize SUVs – including the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, and Kia Telluride – accounted for 11% of those transactions, while compact SUVs accounted for 6%.
As for compact premium SUV owners, 30% moved to mainstream brands; 10% chose a midsize SUV, while 9% went for a similarly sized mainstream model, a category that includes the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Additionally, 42% of compact premium car owners chose a mainstream vehicle.
The average transaction price for the mainstream midsize SUVs purchased was $51,500, compared with $70,600 for the premium vehicles traded in.
The study noted that the destination segment matters because it shows buyers are not leaving luxury vehicles on price alone; mainstream models have become sophisticated enough to offer many of the same qualities once reserved for premium brands. It is reflected in the J.D. Power 2026 APEAL Study, which found that the emotional-satisfaction gap between premium and mass-market brands has narrowed to just 29 points on a 1,000-point scale, down from 66 points in 2008.
While the study credits EV competition with accelerating improvements in in-car technology – a trend that became more apparent at the start of this decade with models such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 – perhaps the rise of affordable, feature-packed Chinese cars in global markets may have also pushed established automakers to keep up.
Ford
Who’s Leaving Premium Behind?Other findings in the Automotive OEM Intelligence Report include that Baby Boomers and Pre-Boomers are the most likely to remain in the premium segment; Millennials and Gen Z buyers defect at higher rates; buyers earning $200,000 or more are the most likely to remain in the premium segment, with retention weakening as income declines; and customers moving to mainstream brands are more likely to live in rural or suburban areas.
The study suggests that offering sophisticated in-car features and relying on badge prestige may no longer be enough for premium brands to distinguish themselves from mainstream rivals. Providing a more upscale customer experience may be a good place to start.
Honda
*View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article*
Be Careful What You SayEach car's core capability is rooted in the idea of it being able to provide safe, reliable, comfortable, and practical mobility from point A to B. The differences between each model start with size, powertrain, and design; in some cases, different models also have specific features that entice the customer.
In some even more extreme cases, the customer decides on said model because of that specific feature. Ford is in hot water now because it claimed that a Lincoln Corsair could do something it apparently can't.
Lincoln
No Flat TowFord has been hit with a class action suit specific to the Lincoln Corsair SUV. Allegedly, there is an issue pertaining to the flat-tow capabilities of the Corsair. Flat towing is the ability to properly hinge a car to the back of an RV and tow it along on long journeys. While it sounds like a niche feature, given the RV market in the U.S., it is something buyers actually consider.
In the 21-page lawsuit, the plaintiffs allege that they were issued a corrective service notice in February 2025 that pointed out a major blunder. According to the notice, although the Lincoln Corsair's digital user's manual says it can be used during flat towing, the user manual is wrong, and it actually can't be flat towed at all. Specifically, the notice said that if the owners were to engage the car in a flat tow setting, it may damage the powertrain. As a remedy, it was offered that Ford would update the software to fully remove the mistakenly included flat towing feature.
Lincoln
Impacted Buying DecisionThis would have been okay if there was a fix; however, according to the lawsuit, Ford hasn't come up with a fix yet that will allow the Corsair to safely do flat towing. Furthermore, the suit says that some of the buyers' and lessees' decision to purchase the Corsair was impacted by the fact that they thought it could be flat towed. The suit covers all buyers and lessees of the Lincoln Corsair model years 2021-2025 in California.
Buying a new car nowadays can be a tiring experience as you not only have to choose between multiple competing models but also decide what powertrain and equipment best suit your needs—and that’s before you get to financing.
Deciding which optional features to get is probably one of the most tedious tasks because there may be options you don’t need now but might need later on and options you want but cannot afford, not to mention that some desirable options are sometimes bundled with others you don’t care about. So yes, it takes time and patience to get it right.
Now, if those are in short supply, you can always check out the list of the most popular options for new car buyers for inspiration—we’re joking, although for some people that could be useful.
Nearly Half Of 19,000 Survey Respondents Voted For Heated Seats James Riswick
If you’re curious what are the most-wanted features people look for in new cars, a new study from automotive market research and consulting firm AutoPacific has revealed just that. Having surveyed over 19,000 licensed drivers who plan to purchase a new vehicle within the next three years, AutoPacific has released a list of over 160 features and technologies respondents have mentioned as desirable for their new cars.
The top 15 features wanted by vehicle shoppers are obviously the most interesting, and heated seats were voted as the most popular feature by nearly half of respondents (47%). Interestingly, last year heated seats didn’t even make the top 15, so the sudden surge in popularity is quite a mystery.
The truth is few things are more satisfying than climbing into you car in the freezing cold and turning on the heated seats—and the cool thing about them is they don’t cost that much (over $150 on average according to the study).
Parking Sensors Ranked Second, Reverse Automatic Braking Third Kristen Brown
Parking sensors (front and rear) came in second place with 45% of the votes, despite their average price of over $400. Still, one cannot overstate the usefulness of parking sensors, especially if you drive a big SUV (and who doesn’t nowadays?).
The third most popular feature is a rather surprising one, namely “rearward automatic emergency braking,” or reverse automatic braking as it’s also known (44% of the votes, $50 average price).
It’s a safety feature that uses ultrasonic sensors and rear cameras to detect fixed and low-speed objects directly behind a vehicle (like walls or poles). If a crash risk occurs while reversing at low speeds, the system sounds an alert and automatically applies the brakes.
While useful, it’s kind of surprising to see it in third place, ahead of features like adaptive cruise control with lane centering and stop and go (7th spot, +$400)—which yours truly finds the most useful of the bunch—wireless phone charging (11th, +$100), and all-wheel drive (AWD)/4x4 (15th, +$2,000).
You can find the full list of top 15 features wanted by vehicle shoppers below. Let us know what you think of the ranking in the comments and whether the listed features coincide with your favorite optional car features or not.
AutoPacific
Ford's return to the top class of the FIA World Endurance Championship is less than a year away, but development of its new Hypercar is going strong, and we have our first preview of what Ford's upcoming Le Mans challenger will be. Most importantly, it gives fans their best listen yet to the naturally aspirated V8 that will power the car when it makes its competitive debut in 2027. Yes, it sounds every bit as spectacular as you'd expect.
Ford's Hypercar V8 Already Being Pushed To The LimitRather than waiting for a racetrack, Ford is putting its new engine through its paces inside a sophisticated dyno facility at its Dearborn, Michigan headquarters. Engineers recreated a complete lap of the Circuit de la Sarthe, allowing the 5.4-liter naturally aspirated Coyote V8 to experience every acceleration zone, braking point, and gear change it would encounter during the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
During full-throttle runs, the engine screams past 9,000 rpm. The Hypercar features a chassis developed alongside ORECA and its Coyote V8 that was designed, developed, and built entirely in-house in Michigan. While the Mustang GT and Mustang Dark Horse also use the Coyote V8, their road-going engines retain the familiar 5.0-liter displacement instead.
Tapping Into Their GT40 Roots Ford
One of the most fascinating aspects of the project is where Ford intends to prep its entry for the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Just a few yards away from where engineers are tinkering with the new hypercar, Ford did work on the iconic Ford GT40 more than six decades ago, proving that Ford continues to revisit its past to prepare for its future.
History, however, won't count for much once the racing begins. Alongside its old rival Ferrari, Ford will battle some mighty giants like Aston Martin, BMW, McLaren, and Toyota, with newcomer Genesis itching to make a name for itself. On top of that, it seems like Chinese carmaker Chery wants to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, too.
The Road To Le Mans Is Only Just Beginning Ford
The dyno is only one part of the development process. Ford Racing's European testing program will continue across several circuits, focusing on performance, reliability, hybrid system integration, and aerodynamic validation under conditions that closely replicate all the FIA World Endurance Championship tracks. Ford certainly won't have the stage to itself when it returns in 2027. With a stacked lineup of players and technology more advanced than ever, next year's Hypercar class is more competitive than ever before.
One of Chevrolet’s cheapest models, the Trailblazer subcompact crossover SUV, may have an unusually short production run for the 2027 model year.
The 2027 Trailblazer will reportedly remain in production for just three months before being replaced for the 2028 model year, according to sources familiar with the matter cited by GM Authority. While the automaker made no official announcement regarding this, the South Korea-made crossover may be in for a series of updates for the 2028MY.
Unchanged Since 2024 Chevrolet TrailblazerChevrolet
Launched in 2021, the current Trailblazer received a mid-cycle facelift in 2024 gaining refreshed styling, a redesigned cabin, and improved tech features. Everything else has stayed the same since 2021, so the TrailBlazer does need some new features to remain relevant on the market.
Until that happens, it appears that the 2027 Trailblazer will be a stopgap model. While initially it was believed that the 137-horsepower turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder (LBP) gas engine would be ditched for 2027, it appears that the LBP motor will remain available in the 2027 Chevy Trailblazer LS and LT trim levels when equipped with front-wheel drive.
As for the 155-hp turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder (L3T), it will continue to be available with both front- and all-wheel drive. Chances are the base 1.2-liter engine will be discontinued for the 2028 model year, which is expected to bring a host of improvements.
The 2027 Chevy Trailblazer will continue to offer customers a choice of four trim levels (LS, LT, RS, and Activ), along with three powertrain and drivetrain combinations. Those include the 1.2-liter engine with FWD and the 1.3-liter engine with either FWD and AWD.
A Simplified Lineup For 2027MY Chevrolet
The 2027 Trailblazer lineup will also be simplified by several ordering restrictions. For example, the Confidence Package (RPO code WPN) and Convenience Package (RPO code WPG) must now be ordered together (they used to be separate for 2026MY).
Buyers who go for the LT trim and want the Midnight Edition (WJP) with the 1.2L engine and front-wheel drive must also select the Driver Confidence Package (ZL5), the Cold Weather Package (Y19), and the Convenience Package (ZL3).
For LT buyers who want the Midnight Edition with the more powerful 1.3-liter engine, the Driver Confidence Package, Cold Weather Package, and Convenience Package will be also bundled with the power sunroof (C3U). The Midnight Edition package was a standalone option for 2026.
Chevrolet
Moving up to the RS trim, the Adaptive Cruise & Sound Package (CWN) will be bundled with the Driver Confidence Package (ZL5), Convenience Package (ZL3), and the power sunroof (C3U). Previously, only the Driver Confidence Package and Convenience Package were required.
Finally, all Activ trim models will require the Driver Confidence Package and Convenience Package, while the power sunroof will remain optional. No pricing information is available for the 2027 Trailblazer yet, but the 2026 model currently starts at $25,095 (including $1,795 destination freight charge).
Dodge Wants Your Next Muscle Car to Look a Little DifferentDodge has never been one to shy away from attitude, but now the brand wants you to decide exactly what kind of attitude your ride wears. Apart from the newly launched Dodge Charger Super Bee, the company is parading a lineup of factory customization ideas for the Charger and Durango at this year’s Roadkill Nights.
Front and center is the Durango R/T 392 Smokescreen Concept, flanked by a barrage of new paint jobs, graphics, wheels, and appearance packages that hint at what you might soon be able to order.
Dodge
The Durango Gets the Custom TreatmentThe Dodge Durango Smokescreen concept is the automaker’s vision in full technicolor. This three-row beast rocks a Smokescreen exterior, a wild Cryo Blue graphic streaking down the sides, chunky 20-by-10-inch forged Y-spoke wheels, amber accents, Cryo Blue mirror caps, and dark exhaust tips for good measure.
Inside, the theme continues with Petrol Blue Laguna leather performance seats, suede trim, silver stitching, and carbon-fiber-look accents. Underneath all that is the familiar 6.4-liter HEMI V8, producing 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. With standard all-wheel drive, Dodge says the Durango R/T 392 can reach 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and cover the quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds.
It’s still a concept for now, but Dodge is using it to take the pulse of the enthusiast crowd. Think of it as a sneak peek at the kind of factory madness Dodge might unleash soon.
Dodge
More Colors, Less OrdinaryBut the real headline-grabber is the Color Jailbreak program. Dodge is taking the wild paint options once reserved for the likes of the Challenger SRT Demon 170 and Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak and opening the floodgates for more models.
At Roadkill Nights, Dodge rolled out a 2027 Charger Scat Pack in Cha Ching Green and a Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak in Toxic Orange – colors that practically shout for attention. The idea is to let more buyers get in on the fun, with pricing aimed at a bigger crowd. Expect more details to drop later this year.
Ordering a new Dodge might soon feel less like picking from a menu and more like commissioning your own rolling piece of muscle art.
Dodge
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article* Stripes and Brass Added to the MenuDodge is also spicing things up with Tinted Dual Stripes for the Charger and Durango. These aren’t your average racing stripes – they’re translucent, letting the base color peek through and creating a tone-on-tone look that shifts depending on what’s underneath.
The stripes will be factory-installed, stretching from nose to tail. Meanwhile, the 2027 Durango gets a new Redeye exterior color, and the Brass Monkey Package throws in 20-by-10-inch forged wheels plus black fender badging with brass accents for Durango GT HEMI models.
Dodge
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First EverBentley is a brand backed by tradition and heritage; it is one of the very few left that really harps on about its storied past and uses it as a basis to keep building on its newer models. However, because it is still part of a major conglomerate in the form of the Volkswagen Group, it must still have an eye towards the future.
One of the ways it's doing this is through the launch of its first-ever fully battery electric vehicle (BEV); the Torcal SUV. Given its forward-thinking nature, the Torcal is expected to have some of the most advanced luxury features on the market; one of those features has just been announced.
Bentley
The Curation EngineThe Bentley Torcal's launch is imminent, with a target global reveal set for September of this year. Normally, brands are already at this point, building up anticipation through teasers and announcements about the new car's features and capabilities. In the case of the Torcal, the British automaker is proudly announcing the integration of the Curation Engine.
Bentley's new Curation Engine is basically a system designed to enhance the cabin and driving experience of the Torcal. Bentley claims that this new feature goes a step further than the usual cabin bespoke settings they already offer; the Curation Engine will give owners of the Torcal the ability to "transform the atmosphere of the entire cabin." Specifically, light, sound, climate, and air quality work together with the system to create four distinct cabin modes (Bentley Mode, Comfort Mode, Sport Mode and Refresh Mode). These curated experiences are selected through the Curation Engine, positioned at the center of the cabin, and is designed like a crystallized knob.
Bentley
NeuroscienceThe carmaker claims that the system was developed using sensory neuroscience and was calibrated to operate together as a unified whole. This leads to a more intuitive and natural feel as opposed to being completely technological. Bentley Mode is the car's default mode setting, which creates a warm, dynamic, and perfectly balanced atmosphere. Comfort Mode, meanwhile, is designed to reduce distractions and encourage relaxation. Apart from softening the lighting, drivers can choose a detox setting that reduces the flow of information and allows attention to shift away from screens.
Sport mode revives the senses, with a more immersive soundtrack and a focus on making the drive feel more responsive, immediate and precise, basically transforming the Torcal into an engaging driver's SUV. Refresh Mode is a new mode specific to the Torcal; this setting allows more fresh air circulation and brighter interior cabin lights. It is primarily designed to combat fatigue and enhance driver and occupant alertness.
Bentley TorcalBentley
Cars Are Becoming ComputersSoftware-defined vehicles have become increasingly common, so much so that Rivian explicitly describes its models that way. These vehicles can bring innovative features such as over-the-air updates and more advanced driver-assistance systems, but they can also introduce new types of quality problems that largely analog cars from decades ago never had to deal with.
Even so, Hyundai and Kia are doubling down on SDVs with a dedicated testing facility called the NOVA Lab. The facility can uncover approximately 150 to 200 issues before a physical prototype is assembled, allowing the automakers to save development time while reducing potential headaches for customers once the vehicles reach the road.
Hyundai
A Car Made of WiresThe NOVA Lab, situated at the Namyang Research and Development Center in South Korea, centers on a wire-car test bench. The setup uses no vehicle body, doors, or interior. Instead, hundreds of controllers, wiring harnesses, and electronic components are physically connected exactly as they would be inside a production vehicle. Engineers can connect 300 to 500 controllers through approximately 500 wiring connectors, allowing them to evaluate a vehicle’s complete electronic architecture and identify potential issues.
The goal is to ensure that every electrical component works properly as part of a larger system, as a single communication or signaling error can cause problems across multiple functions. That risk becomes more significant in SDVs because systems controlling propulsion, infotainment, connectivity, safety, and advanced driver-assistance systems are increasingly interconnected.
Other NOVA Lab capabilities include real-world driving simulations using a proprietary Torque Wheel Dynamometer and a virtual environment for testing ADAS features. The facility has also expanded its testing capabilities to cover high-speed Ethernet-based communication, 48-volt power systems, and OTA software updates.
Hyundai
Hyundai’s Software Bet Gets BiggerNOVA Lab will also support the development of Hyundai and Kia’s future SDVs, including planned robotaxi platforms designed to operate without a human driver. They would compete against the likes of Tesla, which unveiled the two-door Cybercab, designed without a steering wheel or pedals.
To some extent, Hyundai and Kia’s growing reliance on software is already evident in their newer vehicles, particularly their electric vehicles. In the U.S., Hyundai offers the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9. It discontinued the standard Ioniq 6 for 2026, likely because of a combination of weak sales and tariffs. Kia, meanwhile, offers the Niro EV, EV6, and EV9, with the smaller EV3 scheduled to arrive in late 2026.
Hyundai
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The Mustang Gets Another Set of DoorsApart from the previously reported $25,000 SUV, Ford has also shown dealers something considerably more interesting: an upcoming four-door Mustang. The prototype reportedly appeared during a dealer meeting in Las Vegas attended by Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford and CEO Jim Farley.
Whispers about a Mustang sedan have been floating for years, but this is the clearest sign yet that Ford might actually be crazy enough to build one. Of course, nothing is set in stone – car companies love to change their minds when the market gets weird, so don’t go placing your bets just yet.
Ford
A Mustang Sedan for Less Than $40,000?If this thing actually makes it to showrooms, Ford doesn’t seem interested in turning it into a wallet-busting Euro-sedan rival. Automotive News says Ford rolled out an early prototype in Vegas and let dealers get up close. The verdict? Some folks, who wished to stay anonymous for obvious reasons, say it looks a bit like a Porsche Panamera – not a comparison we expected to hear in a Mustang story, but here we are.
But here’s where things get really interesting: Ford execs apparently told dealers the four-door Mustang would start under $40,000. They’re also aiming for a 0-60 time under four seconds and more rear-seat space than a Panamera.
That’s a weird combo, honestly. A Mustang-shaped sedan that’s quick and (relatively) affordable? Ford would be carving out a corner of the market with almost no competition – at least until Chevy decides to crash the party with a Camaro sedan of its own.
Christopher Stevens/Ford
What Else Do We Know So FarAs for when you might actually see one, that’s still anyone’s guess. One dealer told the Detroit Free Press Ford is aiming for the end of the decade, but whether that means 2028 or 2029 is still up in the air.
Design-wise, the dealer who got a peek says it looks a lot like today’s Mustang, just stretched into a proper sedan. So Ford isn’t just bolting two extra doors onto the coupe and calling it done – they’re actually putting in the work.
What’s under the hood? That’s still a mystery. The Wall Street Journal says a couple of sources claim the four-door Mustang will be a hybrid, and one even mentioned a hybrid V8. That would be a wild move for Ford as it tries to blend electrification with Mustang muscle.
And then there’s the name game. Ford just filed a trademark for 'Mach 4' covering both gas and electric cars. They haven’t said it’s for the four-door Mustang, but the timing is a little too perfect to ignore.
Christopher Stevens/Ford
This Recall Is More Than a Bumpy RideA proper suspension is just as important for off-roading as the right tires and ample ground clearance. Toyota equips the Tacoma TRD Off-Road accordingly, but some examples are now being recalled over a defect involving their shock absorbers.
More specifically, corrosion can build up and cause the oil reservoirs on the shock absorbers to detach. Toyota said a detached reservoir could create a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash or injury to another road user. Approximately 48,000 MY2024–2025 Tacoma TRD Off-Road models are included in the voluntary safety recall. As of this writing, the campaign has yet to appear in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall database.
Toyota
Hitting a Rough PatchAside from becoming road debris, a detached reservoir could allow shock oil to escape, reducing damping performance and potentially affecting vehicle stability. Given the beating these pickups can take, especially when off-roading, avoiding extreme maneuvers until the issue is fixed would be a sensible precaution.
Toyota equips the Tacoma TRD Off-Road with Bilstein monotube remote-reservoir shocks for extended wheel travel and greater heat dissipation. The Japanese marque did not say whether the recall is limited to a specific powertrain. For reference, the TRD Off-Road is available with either a 2.4-liter i-Force turbocharged engine or the i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, which produces up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque.
Toyota
Toyota’s Remedy PlanOwners of MY2024–2025 Tacoma TRD Off-Road models can enter their VINs into Toyota’s or NHTSA’s recall database to check whether their trucks are affected. They can also contact the Toyota Brand Engagement Center at 1-800-331-4331. The company plans to notify affected customers by early October 2026
Owners will be asked to bring their vehicles to a Toyota dealer, where the front and rear shock-absorber assemblies will be inspected. Any affected assemblies will be replaced with improved ones at no cost. No “Do Not Drive” advisory has been issued.
In addition to this safety campaign, Toyota recently announced another voluntary safety recall covering approximately 508,000 MY2025–2026 Camrys because their 7-inch digital instrument displays could go blank at startup. Those owners will also be notified by early October 2026.
Toyota
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Cost Of OwnershipBuying a vehicle entails a lot of upfront cost; apart from the actual sticker or suggested retail price you pay for the car, there are destination charges, and most importantly, the car insurance fee.
Car insurance is non-negotiable when purchasing a new car or even when continuously running the vehicle in the long term. Considering that it is also a year wherein most buyers are looking into hybrids and EVs, it would be wise to see which are the most affordable when it comes to insurance; thankfully, someone made a list.
Chevrolet
Top 10 EVs and HEVsMercury Insurance is one of the bigger insurance companies and providers in the U.S., and they just came out with a list that would benefit those thinking of getting a new EV or hybrid for this year. Chong Gao, Director of R&D for Mercury Insurance, says that "Understanding insurance costs before making a purchase can help drivers choose the vehicle that best fits both their transportation needs and their budget."
Here is Mercury Insurance's list arranged in order of most affordable:
| | | | 1 | Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid | | 2 | Chevrolet Blazer EV | | 3 | Kia Sportage Hybrid | | 4 | Ford Escape Hybrid | | 5 | Honda CR-V Hybrid | | 6 | Kia Sorento Hybrid | | 7 | Toyota Sienna Hybrid | | 8 | Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid | | 9 | Chevrolet Equinox EV | | 10 | Toyota RAV4 Hybrid |
The insurance group also pointed out that this year's list is a reflection of today's evolving automotive market, where the majority of consumers are already flocking to more fuel-efficient and sustainable forms of mobility. Furthermore, according to them, insurance costs for electrified mobility are affected by more or less the same variables as traditional cars, including repair costs, replacement parts, safety technology, and historical claims.
Kia
Hybrid > EVThe computations done by Mercury Insurance analyzed insurance costs for new 2025-2027 model year hybrids and EVs. Rankings are based on Mercury's internal insurance analysis. Individual premiums vary based on driver profile, location, coverage selections, and other underwriting factors.
Taking a closer look at the list shows a very stark contrast between EVs and hybrids in the fact that hybrids are much, much more affordable to insure and abundant. The list contains 8 hybrids and only 2 EVs. Interestingly, the Hyundai Santa Fe tops the list overall, with 2nd place occupied by the Chevy Blazer EV. Furthermore, the list comprises mostly family SUVs and minivans with no sedan cracking the top 10.
Ford
Cheap Cars Aren’t Dead YetAfter the average transaction price of a new vehicle in the U.S. topped $50,000 for the first time last year, the need for affordability became more pressing. Ford has reportedly considered bringing back a sedan after exiting the segment in the U.S. in 2020 and has announced a more attainable electric truck even after discontinuing the F-150 Lightning.
Now, Ford may be taking affordability even further. A report from Automotive News suggests that a new hybrid crossover with an expected starting price of around $25,000 may be in the pipeline – potentially making it the most affordable model in the lineup. The unnamed product was disclosed during a private meeting for dealers in Las Vegas, with one attendee saying it resembled the first-generation Escape.
Ford
The Crossover Gap Is ShowingThe Escape was discontinued late last year as Ford began retooling its Louisville Assembly Plant for electric vehicle production. It was a decent seller for the brand but wasn’t pulling the same numbers as compact crossover rivals such as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
The report described the potential Escape replacement as a small crossover, which would be in line with its proposed $25,000 price. That’s in the same ballpark as alternatives such as the Honda HR-V and Hyundai Kona. For car buyers, that simply means a more attainable path into the Blue Oval brand.
As of this writing, the Ford Maverick is the most affordable model in the lineup, with a starting MSRP of $28,145 before destination. The upcoming electric truck, called the Fathom, also starts at under $30,000, as promised.
Ford
Consider This a Very Early PreviewIf things go according to plan, the $25,000 crossover could go on sale in 2029. It will reportedly be available in gasoline and hybrid variants, allowing it to cater to different market preferences, especially considering that demand for gasoline-only vehicles remains strong in the U.S. Hybrids have also been gaining ground as EV adoption slows following the expiration of federal tax credits and the loosening of emissions rules.
However, these details have not been finalized and were shared only with dealer executives, so take them with a grain of salt.
Ford also showed dealers a four-door Mustang at the private meeting. People who saw the car reportedly likened its size and design to the Porsche Panamera, and it could start at less than $40,000.
Ford
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The Charger Gets a Drift MakeoverDodge just dragged the Super Bee name out of the history books and slapped it onto the modern Charger, complete with a 600-horsepower punch. But the Super Bee isn’t the only monster prowling Roadkill Nights. Dodge rolled out not one, but two Chargers claiming a wild 750 horsepower each.
Meet the Charger BOOST Coupe and the four-door Charger RPM, or Rapid People Mover. If you like acronyms. Built in just 60 days with help from Mike Musto and Suppy Wejpanich, these two were whipped up just in time to steal the show.
Both started as 2026 Charger Scat Packs with the 550-hp twin-turbo SIXPACK H.O. engine. After that, all bets were off.
Dodge
Two Chargers, Two Ways to Make 750 HPBoth cars aim for that magic 750-hp number, but they take different routes. The two-door BOOST Coupe throws out the factory twin-turbos and bolts on a single, high-output turbo from Turbosmart, plus custom intake and exhaust bits built for the track.
The four-door RPM sticks with twin turbos, but its Turbosmart setup is far from stock. Both cars guzzle C16 race fuel, run MoTeC brains, rock 12-inch digital displays, and pack custom fuel systems with rear-mounted cooling.
Here’s where it gets spicy: neither car keeps the stock automatic. Both are now rear-wheel drive and rock competition-spec manual gearboxes, making them the first SIXPACK-powered Chargers you can actually row your own gears in.
The all-wheel-drive setup? Gone. In its place: drift-ready suspension, wild steering angles, beefy clutch assemblies, heavy-duty driveshafts, and a Bulldog quick-change rear diff.
Dodge
Built to Slide, Not to Sit in a Dealer LotThese aren’t just Chargers with oversized turbos slapped on. Almost everything except the engine guts, body panels, and windshield has been reworked or custom-built for drifting. Forget the stock interior. Now it’s all racing seats, a full cage, harnesses, and a bare-bones motorsport cockpit. Outside, you get flared fenders, custom vented hoods, aero tweaks, and a hand-built rear wing.
So, the BOOST Coupe and RPM aren’t headed to your local dealer anytime soon. They’re rolling showcases of what the Charger can do when Dodge lets its engineers go wild – built for pro drifting, wild demos, and giving lucky passengers the ride of their lives.
These two aren’t done showing off yet. Next stops: Gridlife at Laguna Seca in September and FuelFest in Arizona this December. There’s even a nine-part video series tracking the whole build process.
Dodge
Is the SIXPACK Charger Winning People Over?Dodge is making its point loud and clear: you don’t need a Hemi V8 to have fun or make big power. The 600-hp Super Bee and these two 750-hp drift monsters prove it.
But will the Brotherhood of Muscle actually buy in? Time will tell. For now, the sales numbers are telling: Dodge sold 4,583 gas-powered Chargers in the first half of 2026, up from just 1,630 last year. That’s a massive 181% jump. Q2 alone saw 2,911 units sold, a 404% leap over last year.
Meanwhile, the electric Charger Daytona is heading the other way. Only 534 were sold in the first half of the year, down a staggering 88% from 4,299 last year.
That doesn’t mean the gas Charger has won the war, but it’s clear Dodge’s call to push the twin-turbo SIXPACK is paying off – at least according to numbers. For now, these 750-hp drift specials are proof of what happens when Dodge forgets about practicality and just lets the Charger rip.
Sometimes the best marketing is making your celebrity customer waitEven being the face of Nio's newest SUV wasn't enough to get Yao Ming an early delivery. The NBA Hall of Famer ordered an ES9 on launch night, but because he completed his purchase a few minutes after orders opened, he ended up waiting nearly two months like everyone else. You'd think being Nio's brand ambassador would earn a shortcut. It didn't. Nio founder William Li later explained on Weibo that Yao simply joined the queue after thousands of earlier buyers. Rules, it seems, were rules, even for China’s most famous sportsperson. Luxury brands often make celebrities wait to preserve fairness and exclusivity. But what's unusual here is seeing that same dynamic play out in China's EV market.
What Everyone Is Queuing For Nio
*View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article* The reason is simple. The ES9 has become Nio's biggest hit in years. The premium electric SUV combines 697 horsepower, a 900-volt electrical architecture, and available battery swapping. It’s exactly the kind of car Nio needed to push it upmarket. The ES9 starts at $73,350 with the battery included, or $57,450 if you'd rather rent the pack through Nio's swap subscription. For now, the ES9 stays China-only, unlike the smaller ES8, which already sells in parts of Europe.
Nio's premium push is seemingly working. The brand hit nearly 36,000 deliveries in July alone, up 71 percent year on year, and the average transaction price climbed to roughly $64,000 in July. That's not small-hatchback money, and it's the ES9 and its sibling ES8 doing the heavy lifting.
Nio's Real Problem Is a Good One To Have Photo by Bloomberg on Getty Images
Since deliveries began in May, Nio hit its 10,000th ES9 delivery by late June and expects the 20,000th this week. Top-spec wait times have eased from 16 to 17 weeks down to 13 to 14, while the base version moves in three to four weeks. Deutsche Bank pegged non-cancelable orders above 25,000 back in June and has since raised its full-year forecast to 56,000 units. Against that backdrop, Yao's two-month wait looks almost like a fast lane.
Giving Yao preferential treatment might have pleased one customer, but it would have irritated thousands of paying buyers already waiting in line. By treating its celebrity ambassador like everyone else (whether it was staged or real is up for debate), Nio avoided sending the wrong message at a time when demand is outstripping supply.
Porsche Celebrates 75 Years in AustraliaPorsche's Sonderwunsch program is where the brand lets its imagination run wild. The name means 'special request' in German, and that's exactly what you get: customers teaming up with Porsche's designers, engineers, and craftspeople to dream up one-off machines that make regular personalization look tame. We're talking custom paint, hand-built interiors, and details you won't find anywhere else.
To celebrate 75 years in Australia, the German marque went all-in on a Sonderwunsch special: the Porsche 911 Turbo S Land Down Under. Built with help from the Sonderwunsch crew, Style Porsche, and Sydney artist Werner Bronkhorst, this car is basically a love letter to Australia's wild terrain, dramatic skies, and unmistakable vibe.
Porsche
A Story Told Through Paint, Leather, and WoodThe whole thing is inspired by one of Australia's greatest hits: that split-second when the Outback sunset melts from fiery reds to deep blue twilight. That fleeting moment set the tone for the entire build.
The exterior is where things get wild. Porsche whipped up two brand-new Chromaflair paint colors just for this car: Terra Australis Red and Southern Cross Blue. The paint job is a seven-layer, hand-applied masterpiece that fades from earthy red down low to deep blue up top, and it shifts depending on the light. Even the wheels get in on the action, with 20-inch fronts and 21-inch rears finished in Southern Cross Blue. Just the paint alone took over 300 hours – talk about dedication.
Look closer, and you'll spot some Easter eggs. There's a sneaky '75' ghosted into the roof paint, and if you pop the active rear spoiler, you'll find a cheeky 'See ya later mate' message that only shows up when the wing is up.
Inside, the Aussie vibes keep coming. There's Dark Night Blue leather, a custom Coolibah Brown, and Australian Silky Oak wood everywhere you look. The dashboard gets topographical graphics straight from the Blue Mountains, and the headliner shows off the Southern Hemisphere night sky as it looked over Uluru in 1951 – the year Porsche landed in Australia. Even the seat perforations are a nod to Bronkhorst's brushstroke style.
Porsche
Familiar Turbo S Performance UnderneathUnder the skin, it's pure 911 Turbo S. That means a 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat-six with Porsche's T-Hybrid system, good for 711 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. All four wheels get the power through an eight-speed PDK, so it'll rocket from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.5 seconds and top out at 200 mph.
After its big debut in Australia, this one-off will hit the road for a tour around the country before settling in as a rolling tribute to Porsche's Aussie milestone.
As a bespoke Sonderwunsch commission, the Land Down Under is not for sale and carries no official price of its own. For reference, the production 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S Coupe starts at AU$577,300, or roughly $375,000 at current exchange rates, before on-road costs and options.
Porsche
*View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article*
The White House bluntly identified China and Russia by name as threats to American roads and drivers this week.
Specifically, the brief highlighted a proposed rule change within the Department of Commerce set to ban all sale and import of ‘connected’ vehicles from these two countries, as well as components and hardware made within them even if used in other carmaker’s products.
Related: How California plans to stop you from speeding 10 MPH over the limit
A shadow ban on all Chinese cars?The list of to-be-outlawed technology and components is extensive. While the full report can be found on the Department of Commerce notice, the breakdown by the White House highlighted systems which could control or correct vehicle movement, any data collection on driver and/or passengers, all cameras, sensors, autonomous driving software, and anything which could record and/or send information about American infrastructure.
That’s a lot of wiggle room.
Whether or not the intention is to ban all Chinese cars outright, it certainly could be the outcome, depending on how these terms are interpreted. Are rear back-up cameras, a staple on almost every vehicle manufactured in the last decade, included? Are in-build GPS and navigation softwares included? Does saving a seat and mirror preset constitute ‘recording information’ about drivers and passengers?
Whack-a-mole could meet mission creepLaws don’t, as a general rule, change minds and objectives, just behavior. Often, unexpected and unintended adaptations occur in the face of a law to achieve as-near the same outcome as was possible before.
Muddy language like this can invite bare-minimum compliance and shell games and semantic compliance with the letter, but not the spirit of the law. This in turn forces even more clarification and delineation of the rules, with even more side-stepping. Consider just one quoted portion of the proposal, which defines the scope of who and what could be affected:
“Systems… designed, developed, manufactured, or supplied by persons owned by, controlled by, or subject to the jurisdiction or direction of a foreign adversary.”
Who exactly is that meant to cover, and more importantly, who will it come to encompass as the rule matures?
A model poses at BYD during 2024 Wuhan International Auto Show.Wang HE/Getty Images
‘Made in China’ may become a liabilityRight out the gate, it is probably safe to assume that, on purpose or as a ‘happy accident’, most of the state-owned Chinese companies and domestic start-ups heavily dependent on CCP subsidies and beholden to its good graces will be implicated on sight.
Questions for Volvo, Polestar, and moreThere is also the question, however, of non-Chinese origins companies which have either been bought out, like Volvo and Polestar, or are publicly traded and cannot know for sure some or even a large amount of those shares are not owned by China or Russia in a way that subjects them to this rule.
Even more confusing, pretty much any manufacturer doing business in China needs to accept 50% ownership of the business, at least the part that is in the country proper, by the CCP. While there has already been a quiet shift away from investing more into China by automakers feeling the squeeze from strict Covid-19 lockdowns and increased consternation from governments and consumers alike back home, rules like this could hasten capital flight of the investments already made.
Not even The Big 3 are safeTake Ford Chengen, for example. As far as the automotive business goes, it doesn’t get more American than Ford.
But Ford partners with Chinese company Chengen to export some of their models to China in a joint venture. That could be construed to mean, to some degree, that Ford is somewhat beholden to the jurisdiction of China.
Perhaps this argument will never be used, as it is somewhat frivolously extreme, but it paints a picture of the kinds of questions such a broad framework banning software and hardware in any way connected with China poses.
Targeting China’s encroachments could be a sincere effort while also being a calculated election ployThe timing of this announcement could be seen by the more cynical as part of an effort to shore up UAW support and win over the rust belt in general as the nation nears another divisive presidential election.
With the war in Ukraine proving what networking and ingenuity are capable of to turn off-the-shelf products into weapons of war, and the recent coordinated explosion of thousands of Hezbollah pagers and radios in Lebanon proving that even highly outdated communication and integration technologies could be an avenue of attack by a clever adversary, the Biden Administration might be doing what needs to be done and also benefiting from loudly announcing the steps taken at a politically opportune moment.
Final thoughtsProtecting consumers from cyber attacks is absolutely within the purview and duty of the American government. However, this announcement comes out of the executive branch and not Congress, meaning it is an enforcement of a rule that’s not really a law, and lacks the funding and coordination of effort that could come with being one.
This effort may limit access to some systems by some entities who wish to do harm, or at least make it more difficult by placing obstacles in the way, but perhaps this misses the bigger question; is our data being protected against all threats foreign AND domestic? Are we building technology that is too exploitable in general and only focusing on those most likely to catastrophically abuse that vulnerability, instead of asking whether we are comfortable with those vulnerabilities existing in the first place?
I don’t know.
What I do know is that, when Skynet or ChatGPT hacks into my car and sends it careening off a bridge, I doubt I’ll breathe a sigh of relief knowing that at least it wasn’t Xi Jinping or Putin who gave the order.
Related: 2025 Cadillac Optiq: Here’s how this new compact EV SUV aims to raise the bar for Cadillac
McLaren Automotive has officially announced the latest addition to its legendary "1" series of supercars: the McLaren W1. Besides the name, everything else about the highly anticipated new car is still under wraps until an October 6th reveal, according to a statement from McLaren.
The W1 launch date is significant for McLaren, as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of McLaren’s first Formula 1 Constructors’ World Championship and Emerson Fittipaldi’s 1974 World Drivers’ Championship victory with the brand.
A New Milestone in McLaren’s Hypercar LegacyThe McLaren W1 joins a family of supercars known for their innovation and performance, each introducing new technology usually only seen on Formula 1 tracks.
The McLaren F1, first released in 1992, set a new benchmark for performance cars with its central driving position, lightweight carbon fiber chassis, and a naturally aspirated V12 engine that gave it world-record speed credentials. In the 30-plus years since its release, faster production cars have come on the market. But, the F1 has held onto its title as the fastest naturally aspirated road car ever built, according to McLaren.
In 2013, McLaren introduced the P1, a revolutionary hypercar that was part of the "Holy Trinity" of new, hybrid hypercars alongside the Ferrari LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder. The P1 boasted a twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain producing 903 horsepower, along with Formula 1-derived tech like active aerodynamics and brake steer.
The Evolution of McLaren’s ‘1’ Series SupercarsNow, over a decade since the P1’s debut, McLaren aims to create another era-defining hypercar with the W1. With less than 500 “1” cars produced since the F1’s debut over 30 years ago, the W1 is joining an incredibly exclusive club.
“The McLaren W1 is defined by real supercar principles and is the ultimate expression of a McLaren supercar. Born of our rich racing history and World Championship mindset, W1 pushes the boundaries of performance and is worthy of the ‘1’ name. Like its predecessors the F1 and McLaren P1™, W1 defines the rulebook of a real supercar,” said McLaren CEO Michael Leiters.
Powertrain Innovations: What to Expect from the McLaren W1Although details about the W1’s exact specifications are still under wraps, there’s speculation that it will feature a hybrid V8 powertrain, marking the next step in McLaren’s hybrid journey.
While the P1 boasts an impressive 903 horsepower, it’s likely that the W1 will raise the bar even higher with a combination of electrification and aerodynamics to achieve unprecedented speed and handling.
Related: McLaren CEO looks to follow Ferrari's blueprint for success — but with 'no arrogance'
The W1’s Role in McLaren’s 50-Year Racing HistoryThe timing of the W1’s release is no accident, aligning perfectly with McLaren’s 50-year celebration of their first Formula 1 Constructors’ World Championship win. The W1, while a hypercar built for the road, pays homage to McLaren’s dominance on the track, acting as a bridge between the brand’s racing heritage and its future.
McLaren W1 and the Future of Hybrid HypercarsThe McLaren W1 arrives at a time when competition in the hypercar market is fiercer than ever. Last June, Porsche teased its upcoming fully electric hypercar, the Mission X, while Ferrari is developing a new hypercar to follow up the LaFerrari. While the last Holy Trinity of hypercars all featured hybrid powertrains, it will be interesting to see how enthusiasts and prospective buyers react to the diverging technology powering this new generation.
With its cutting-edge powertrain and meticulous engineering, the W1 is positioned to set new standards in the hypercar space and reinforce McLaren’s position as a leader in performance and innovation.
Related: McLaren could lean on BMW to enter the SUV segment
Toyota’s GR Corolla has been one of the most welcome additions to the US automotive market, especially since we can’t get the even crazier GR Yaris. The hot hatches are still around and frankly better than ever with manufacturers like Hyundai tapping into a sector they were previously absent from.
Related: 2025 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Exploring key differences
Back on the JDM front though, Toyota will debut an enhanced version of their beloved GR Corolla for the 2025 model year with plenty of fun enhancement to make the driving experience even peppier.
2025 Toyota GR Corolla RearToyota
The new 2025 GR Corolla gets the GAZOO Racing automatic transmissionFor starters, an 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission (DAT) with paddle shifters is now available as a $2,000 addition to the regular six-speed manual.
Toyota claims this will help drivers “focus on dynamic handling” rather than shifting. At the heart of that claim is Toyota’s integrated software, which basically syncs the car’s brain to yours. It analyzes metrics like deceleration g-forces, speed, and driving behavior to predict the perfect shift point. The new DAT also benefits from launch control to help you win those stop-light drag races. If the standard transmission cooler proves inadequate for your needs, a sub-radiator is available on the Premium trim but comes standard on the new Premium Plus trim level.
2024 Toyota GR Corolla SuspensionToyota
2025 GR Corolla offers enhanced suspensionTo further enhance handling, the suspension gets snazzy new rebounding springs in the front and back to keep the wheels planted in hard corners. The rear coils and stabilizers received some attention as well. The trailing arm mounting point is also higher to reduce rear squat during acceleration, and every GR Corolla from now on will come standard with front and rear limited-slip differentials.
If you’re on team manual, don’t worry—Toyota has not forgotten you. The clutch has been updated for the new model year to be quicker than before, especially on the return stroke.
The turbocharged 3-cylinder makes more torque and breathes better through the new bumperThe G16E-GTS 1.6-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine now growls a little louder thanks to a torque increase from 273 lb.-ft. to 295 lb.-ft., the same as the 2023 Morizo edition. The AWD system remains unchanged, with Normal, Gravel, and Track modes, because hot hatches should be adaptable too.
Toyota GR Corolla EngineToyta
On the aesthetic side, the front bumper has been redesigned with improved cooling in mind. In addition to fitting the DAT cooler and optional sub-radiator, it also houses the radiator, intercooler, and improved air curtain brake ducts.
Corolla GR offers new trim level for 2025 and higher base priceThe aforementioned Premium Plus trim is new for 2025 and adds features previously seen only on special editions, like a forged carbon fiber roof, vented bulge hood, matte black wheels, and a Head-Up Display. That might spark some grumbling from current special edition owners.
2025 Toyota GR Corolla INteriorToyota
Unfortunately, color options remain relatively dull, with only Black, Ice Cap (white), Heavy Metal (gray), and Supersonic Red available. Toyota, you made the Prius C in bright happy colors—what happened here?
As one might expect, new premium features come at a new premium price. The base model GR Corolla, a.k.a. the Core, starts at $39,995 compared to the previous model year’s $37,195. The Premium trim stays at $42,575, while the new Premium Plus starts at $46,650. That’s almost $50,000 for a Corolla. You can get some full-size sedans for the same price or less. Those, however, don’t come with a complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association.
Final thoughtsThe GR Corolla remains an exciting addition to Toyota’s lineup and the hot hatch segment. While the higher base price may upset some folks, at least it goes towards new parts that further improve the driving experience.
I would also argue that the new automatic transmission is a welcome addition. Not only is it the GAZOO Racing DAT—banishing nightmares of the slushboxes of yore—but it also makes the GR Corolla accessible to those who either don’t want to drive manual or are unable to due to disability. After all, aren’t we supposed to make driving more fun for everyone?
Related: 2024 Toyota Tacoma: Transmission failures spark reliability doubts, everything you need to know about the issue
Cadillac’s smallest EV SUV yetCadillac’s smallest all-electric SUV is set to be the 2025 Optiq. This compact 5-passenger EV joins an already impressive EV sport utility line up from the brand, which also includes, from smallest to largest, the Lyriq, the Vistiq, and the Escalade IQ. Cadillac’s naming convention where all of their EV-only models end in ‘iq’ continues.
Although larger than the non-EV 2025 XT4, also by Cadillac, it is just about the same size as their 2025 XT5, and only $10K more at a base of $52,895, before taxes. All in all, Cadillac hopes that the 2025 Optiq will fill a new niche in their growing roster of EV SUVs, aligning with the brand’s mission to become an all-EV company by 2030, only six years away, according to John Roth, Vice President of Global Cadillac. Time will tell if the 2025 Optiq is up to the task.
The 2025 Optiq is a small fish in a growing pondThe compact luxury EV SUV segment has been growing steadily with the Polestar 3 and the recently announced Rivian R2 recently joining the mix. The Rivan R2 leans more into the rugged and adventure segment, while the Polestar 3 is more of a direct equivalent.
The Rivian R2, a rugged alternative to the Cadillac Optiq.Rivian
The 2025 Optiq will have to define itself against these and other competitors, and really show consumers that Cadillac still stands as a quality luxury option.
The 2025 Cadillac Optiq will have to contend with the Polestar 3.Polestar
Can the Cadillac Optiq capture a younger, environmentally aware generation of drivers?Cadillac has long been seen as a symbol of refinement and opulence, status and class. However, the brand has also cast its eye to the younger driving demographic. Increasingly, first time drivers are concerned about environmental peace of mind when making purchases.
The Optiq features accent fabric woven from 100% recycled polyester yarn, as well as veneer fashioned from tulip wood and recycled newspaper. Other accents such as carpeting, console and dash flair, and door cards also contain at least some recycled and recyclable materials.
Cadillac is hoping to lure in first time buyers with the 2025 Optiq by touting its relative affordability and ecological consciousness as an all-EV offering.
Related: Biden administration fuels EV transition with $1B fund for small auto manufacturers
Gadgets and gizmos aplenty in the 2025 Optiq It's quite the view, too. Cadillac has also pulled out all the stops when it comes to tech and entertainment, the focal point of which is the central 33” diagonal advanced LED display, with 9k resolution and all manner of bells and whistles to customize the driving experience.
Analog buttons are also plentiful, a tactile joy when compared to the cold smooth blase of bare touch screens alone. Built-in Google compatibility and a 19-speaker AKG Studio sound system with Dolby Atmos are also inbuilt in every 2025 Optiq, ensuring no shortage of entertainment and accessibility for tech-savvy customers, and wireless phone charging ensures the devices powering them never run out of juice.
An underwhelming charge rate might be the 2025 Optiq’s achille’s heelCadillac boasts that the Optiq will have around 300 miles of range on a single charge, and multiple recharging speeds depending on the availability and capability of the recharging infrastructure you can find in your area. While that is more than comfortably standard in terms of what an EV should offer, it also isn’t exactly standout.
Of more concern is the Optiq’s maximum charge rate of only 150 kW. The 2026 Rivian R2 is estimated to have a maximum charge rate of 220 kW, and the stiff competition of the Polestar 3 has a maximum charge rate of 250 kW. Considering how long it takes to recharge an EV under the best of conditions, the Optiq’s limitations in charge rate might be its downfall, leaving the compact EV SUV ideal for commutes and short trips, yet not exactly road-trip ready unless you’re prepared to spend hours not driving and recharging instead.
Super Cruise is standard on the 2025 OptiqGM’s proprietary Super Cruise hands-free driver assist technology is standard on all models of the 2025 Optiq. While we are not yet to the point where the driver is fully relieved of responsibility for operating their vehicle, this system can help bear some of the burden.
Cadillac's Optiq feels like a fighter plane cockpit. Four trims, two choices, one missed opportunity for the 2025 Optiq We’ve already reported on the four tiers in our 2025 Optik order guide, but what really are the differences anyways? They’re not as much as you might think. It could more accurately be said that, rather than four trim tiers, there are really two grades of two: Luxury 1 & 2 and Sport 1 & 2.
Luxury 1 and Sport 1, Galvano or Obsidian chromeBoth Luxury 1 ($54,390 base) and Sport 1 ($54,990) are really only separated by the type of illuminated grille styling and exterior trimming accents. Luxury has a Galvano chrome, while Sport has a more muted but no less elegant Obsidian chrome, both with black gloss finishing.
Luxury 2 and Sport 2, nice featured upgrades but no distinct identityFrom there, Luxury 2 ($56,590) and Sport 2 ($57,090) both have the same styling as their level one counterparts, and… nothing else to differentiate them. Both include a heads-up display, an upgrade to the passenger seat making it 8-way power-adjustable like the driver’s, ventilated massaging in both front seats, heated rear outboard seats, choreographed lighting and upgraded light package, and a rear cargo cover which, probably, should have come standard anyways.
Related: How California plans to stop you from speeding 10 MPH over the limit
All in all, the 2025 Optiq trim offerings don’t stand out from each otherDespite technically boasting four trims, there really are only two choices to consider when sizing up Cadillac’s Optiq; do you prefer the look of the Luxury or Sport styling more, and are you willing to spring for the same extras regardless of which base trim you chose? Considering the brand’s luxury reputation, this really seems like a mediocre miss for customization and consumer engagement, despite the Optiq’s overall strengths.
The wait is almost overCadillac has yet to announce an actual date for when the 2025 Optiq will be available for purchase, still listing the arrival time as “late 2024”. But with September almost over, we’re already basically there.
Will the 2025 Optiq rise to it's true potential? Final thoughtsAll in all, the all-new 2025 Optiq promises to bring something new to the Cadillac brand, with plenty to offer and plenty to love coming standard to all models. As an all EV line of SUV, Cadillac is betting big on more Americans converting over to driving electric, especially younger and first-time drivers. The interior and exterior trim packages leave a little to be desired in terms of choice, but in part it’s a testament to the quantity and quality of standard features the 2025 Optiq provides, all at an affordable price.
Related: Exclusive photos of the 2024 Audi RS3
2024 Audi RS3
Kyle Edward
*View the 19 images of this gallery on the original article* **Related: 2024 Audi RS3 vs. 2024 BMW M2: An epic battle of German engineering**
The U.S. government pushes forward on EV transitionThe U.S. government appears to be moving full steam ahead with its nationwide transition to electric vehicles (EVs). The Biden Administration recently announced a joint initiative with investment firm Monroe Capital LLC to launch a $1 billion fund aimed at promoting the growth of EV manufacturers.
The newly established Drive Forward Fund is designed to support small and medium-sized automotive manufacturers by offering lower-cost loans to help them “refinance, grow, and diversify their businesses.” The fund's primary focus is on accelerating the development of key components essential to electric vehicles. According to Monroe Capital, many manufacturers of this size often lack access to the necessary financing to scale up production of these components.
The fund will be backed by a U.S. Small Business Administration license and guided by an “auto industry council,” although the members of this council have yet to be announced.
This initiative is part of a broader network of government loans and grants intended to strengthen the U.S. electric vehicle sector and enhance its competitiveness against foreign markets.
Related: Tesla’s EV boom overshadowed by alarming production bottlenecks
Over $3 billion has been invested in battery technologyJust last week, $3 billion was allocated to 25 projects across 14 states, with the goal of boosting domestic production of advanced battery technologies and the materials needed for both EVs and infrastructure. These projects are expected to create over 8,000 construction jobs and more than 4,000 operational jobs.
In July, the administration announced nearly $1.1 billion in grants to General Motors and Stellantis to convert existing internal combustion engine (ICE) plants for EV and component production. Similarly, in May, more than $100 million was awarded to small and medium-sized auto parts manufacturers to “expand and retool,” likely for the production of EV components.
Efforts to counter China’s dominance in the EV sectorConcerns over the influx of cheaper Chinese electric vehicles into the U.S. and parts of Europe have sparked significant pushback. Thanks in part to substantial government subsidies, China’s auto industry has been able to produce EVs at a faster pace and lower cost than other nations. This has raised fears that mass importation of Chinese EVs could severely impact domestic manufacturers.
In response, the U.S. government has imposed a 100% tariff on Chinese EVs, along with additional tariffs of 50% on solar cells and 25% on steel, aluminum, EV batteries, and key minerals. The Canadian government has taken similar measures.
Related: Ford CEO says the Chinese EV industry is biggest threat to his business
John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, praised the Drive Forward Fund, stating that a successful transition to EVs "requires a cutting-edge automotive supply chain that keeps the country competitive and supports our economic and national security." Although he did not directly mention China, the implications were clear.
The future of electric vehicles remains uncertainGovernments worldwide are investing unprecedented amounts of capital into their EV sectors, with President Biden setting ambitious targets such as having 50% of all new vehicle sales be electric by 2030. However, whether these goals will be achieved remains uncertain, especially as demand for EVs has slowed in both Europe and the U.S. The future of the electric vehicle market is still unfolding, and only time will reveal the outcome.
Related: Automakers sound alarm after EU electric vehicle sales crash
Traditionally, there was “no replacement for displacement,” but if you want to extract a previously unthinkable amount of power from a 5.5-liter V8, you can do so by strapping on a hefty turbocharger. When it comes to production cars, turbos don’t get any heftier than the ones BorgWarner is supplying to General Motors for use in the Corvette ZR1.
Each hypercar will be getting two of them, to be exact, following an agreement that BorgWarner and General Motors announced on September 23. The parts are all designed and manufactured in the United States, and evidence of the collaboration between GM and BorgWarner is already present. GM’s anti-lag calibration is assisted by the electronically actuated wastegate system built into BorgWarner’s twin-turbo setup.
2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1 turbo.BorgWarner
BorgWarner’s turbos have a space-age easter eggBorgWarner is 130 years old and has a long history of supplying high-performance parts. The company’s work with the NTT INDYCAR SERIES was a major factor in its selection, and it also influenced the development of the twin ball bearing turbochargers that will be fitted on the ZR1 platform.
As a further nod to the partnership and GM’s history, each turbocharger will feature the Gemini rocket insignia on its face — paying homage to the company’s collaboration with NASA in the 1960s.
High-tech LT7 engine meets high-tech turbochargerWhile described as a “5.5-liter V8,” the ZR1’s LT7 engine is far more advanced. With the help of BorgWarner’s turbochargers, it produces up to 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine isn’t entirely new; its flat-plane crank and fundamental architecture are carried over from the LT6, which also powers the Z06 Corvette.
The innovation doesn’t stop there. Atop the LT7 sits the "Edge Blue Intake System," which blends chilled air from the charge air coolers with fuel from both the port and direct injection systems before feeding the mixture into the combustion chambers. Unique cylinder head castings, dual overhead cams, forged pistons, a refined valve train, and forged titanium rods round out the extensive list of high-performance components.
Related: 2025 Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06 vs ZR1: Pitting two American legends head-to-head
The twin turbochargers deliver the power the LT7 deservesOverkill can be a real consideration, but with the LT7, the turbochargers are essential to push the engine’s potential. Even the turbo casing is high-tech, featuring zero-clearance heat shielding to combat the extreme temperatures produced during operation.
These are the largest turbos found in a production car, featuring a 76mm forged milled compressor wheel with a ported shroud and a 67mm turbine wheel housed in a mono scroll turbine housing. The housing improves efficiency, and the integrated exhaust manifold ensures all runners are the same length, further enhancing performance and refining the exhaust note.
There’s a digital side to the ZR1’s turbochargerOn the digital side, each turbo is equipped with a compressor-mounted blade pass speed sensor, providing real-time data on turbo speed to the car’s computer system.
This innovation allows the ZR1 to push its turbochargers to 100% capacity without the risk of damage. A patented decoupled ball bearing system reduces response time, increases durability, and keeps things quieter.
Related: How the 2025 Corvette ZR1 moved from supercar to hypercar
Final thoughtsBorgWarner’s NASA-inspired turbos feature 76mm forged compressor wheels and integrated exhaust manifolds, forming a highly efficient, high-performance system. This setup allows the ZR1 to produce an impressive 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb.-ft. of torque. With advanced technology such as blade pass speed sensors and a decoupled ball bearing system, the ZR1's turbochargers maximize output and responsiveness, elevating the car to new performance heights.
2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse
*View the 37 images of this gallery on the original article*
Could this new tech alter your driving habits?Introduced in January this year and passed through both state legislative chambers earlier this month, California Senate Bill “SB-961 Vehicles: Safety Equipment” is now law, though it won’t start coming into effect until 2030.
Safety activists and cyclist advocacy organizations are hailing its passing as a big win for everyone, while the National Motorists’ Association has been actively running a petition to prevent the bill from passing.
Unlike many laws, the bill is quite short if you actually want to read it yourself, but many who do are left wondering, is this bill really the safety victory being touted? Will it actually affect the average driver’s day-to-day experience?
What is California trying to do?Behind the legalese and minor exemptions, which effectively won’t apply to many drivers, the bill’s provisions are clear. Any vehicle sold from 2030 onwards that has a front-facing camera or GPS guidance system will be required to provide a warning whenever drivers exceed 10 miles over the speed limit.
2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Instrument ClusterChevrolet
While nothing in the bill prevents more aggressive measures, such as the car automatically reducing speed once this overclocked limit is detected, or additional warnings related to speeds, it also makes it clear that this system must be able to be disengaged by the manufacturer or a ‘franchisee’—essentially the driver themselves.
Why it (probably) won’t change muchMuch like adjusting the rearview mirror and driver’s seat when one first gets into their car, many drivers will likely opt to turn off this ‘reminder’ style warning about speeding, especially if they tend to speed as part of their normal driving style.
Even if a driver doesn’t turn off this feature, the bill only calls for a one-time warning, with audio and/or haptics. But the fact that it is not sustained will make this required minimum safety feature fairly easy to ignore or forget, even by well-meaning drivers with a bit of a lead foot.
Added hassle for little gainWhile manufacturers are expressly permitted to go above and beyond these regulations, it’s likely they won’t unless drivers demand it.
There may be some drivers who speed without realizing it infrequently enough to benefit from this system, but most will either disable the warnings or grow irritated by the constant reminders.
Related: Ford CEO says the Chinese EV industry is biggest threat to his business
Every intention has an equal and opposite subversionOne potential solution these hypothetical drivers might come to is that, since the warning only triggers when they first exceed 10 mph over the speed limit, why not simply keep driving over the limit once they cross that threshold?
Instead of lowering the average speed of vehicles on the road in California, this new law may, though it is hard to know exactly for how many and by how much, increase the average speed of vehicles on the road.
What are some alternatives?Safety is obviously a critical part of using the automobiles we love so much, so even if the execution of this specific piece of legislation is a dud, are there ways to make the road safer for everyone? Yes, and for the most part, these have been private sector innovations and/or classics already widely in use.
Existing safety technology already does a lot of the heavy liftingThere are also less autonomously intelligent but still useful innovations like cameras front, rear, and sometimes even side, lane assist, lane merger warning, collision warning, and a host of other technologies that are matured and often come standard. Perhaps unlike a speed warning, drivers want these, and carmakers followed the market to include them.
Related: The 2025 Toyota 4Runner packs some serious off-road engineering, making it trail-ready from factory
Woop woop that’s the sound of the policeLastly, there’s also nothing quite like officers out on the beat to catch the worst offenders. While speed traps and ticket quotas might make traffic cops an irritation for those on the road, they are still the best way to catch someone truly driving in an unsafe manner. And unlike a little chime or light shake of the steering wheel, when bad actors act out, someone to stop and ticket them might just be the best way to save lives.
Final ThoughtsIn short, SB-961 is an extra hurdle for carmakers to tick off when making their products street legal in only one of the 50 United States, and it is a feature most drivers will either turn off or ignore. The law might even encourage worse driving habits, and it doesn’t seem like it will measure up to the effectiveness of existing safety features already in use.
As long as it can be turned off, however, perhaps most drivers won’t even care or notice.
Now that the sixth-generation 4Runner has been announced after a 15-year tenure of its fifth-generation model, Toyota wants to remind people that they’ve never lost their off-road chops. If you cast your mind way back, you’ll remember that the first-generation 4Runner was an SUV version of the nothing-short-of-legendary Hilux. Does that legacy carry through all these years later?
The 2025 4Runner offers an impressive combination of off-road featuresRight off the bat, it’s clear that the 2025 4Runner was built with off-road in mind. The newest feature Toyota proudly touts in its press release is the Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism, which enhances suspension articulation with the push of a button, improving rock crawling capability and reducing the risk of wheel well damage. Speaking of rock crawling, the new CRAWL Control function is essentially a low-speed cruise control, allowing the driver to focus on steering over obstacles rather than maintaining a constant speed.
2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro Toyo TiresToyota
A 32-degree approach angle gives the Toyota 4Runner an edge in tackling tough terrainStill worried about damaging other parts of the bodywork? Don’t be! The 32-degree approach and 24-degree departure angles along with a Multi-Terrain Monitor system work together to help you keep an eye out for hazards. But you can’t monitor multiple terrains if the car can’t handle multiple terrains. Thankfully the Multi-Terrain Select system makes short work of that by controlling wheel spin on mud, dirt, and sand in both 4WD-High and 4WD-Low.
Once you make it past the rocky areas, the Downhill Assist Control is another cruise control-like system that saves your brakes by keeping speeds low on the way down.
2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro RearToyota
The 4Runner 4WD drivetrains are a must-have for serious off-roadersEven though the 4Runner will be available as a 2WD with an automatic limited-slip differential, the part-time or full-time 4WD models are the ones off-roaders will want to opt for. The list of toys available for those is sure to impress even the most grizzled off-roaders, including the standard electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high/low range, Active Traction Control, and an available Electronically-activated Locking Rear Differential.
Related: 2025 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Exploring key differences
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter trim brings serious off-roading to the Japanese marqueA total of nine trim levels will be available for the 2025 4Runner including SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Sport Premium, TRD Off Road, TRD Off Road Premium, Limited, Platinum, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Limited InteriorToyota
Every trim level brings certain options as standard, but the top-of-the-mountain Trailhunter is where Toyota pulled out all the stops. In place of the standard shocks are ARB Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged shocks with rear external piggyback remote reservoirs and 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires for an additional two inches of lift in the front and one and a half inches in the rear. The i-FORCE MAX powertrain breathes easier thanks to a low-profile high-mount air intake, ensuring it stays cool during long stints of dirt driving. The Trailhunter trim adds further protection for the important bits including rock rails and high-strength steel skid plates.
Toyota also recognizes that off-roading doesn’t equal negating certain convenience features. The new ARB roof rack provides extra storage space for all your bags while the 2400W AC inverter and three pre-wired auxiliary switches provide juice for any additional accessories you might need on your adventure. Getting dark outside? Flick on the integrated 20-inch LED light bar with color-selectable RIGID LED fog lamps.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter SuspensionToyota
Final thoughtsToyota packed some serious off-road equipment into their latest 4Runner. The numerous trim levels should give buyers plenty of flexibility regarding how serious they want to get on their trail adventures, meaning you don’t have to shell out for the Trailhunter if the SR5 does everything you want it to do.
Prices for the 4Runner as a whole have yet to be announced, but many outlets are estimating a $43,000 price tag for the starter SR5. Expect to approach the upper end of $60,000 if you want to go all out. We’re also excited to see how these specs perform in the real world and how the aftermarket responds to the new 4Runner. Watch your back Jeep.
The Chevrolet Corvette has been America’s darling sports car since its introduction in 1953. While its competitors have come and gone, the Corvette lasted through the ages with a reputation for cutting-edge performance and distinctive styling unlike anything on the market. That alone was mind-blowing for most owners, but some wanted more. They wanted to represent the red, white, and blue at the track, and Chevy was more than happy to oblige.
1953 Chevrolet Corvette, (c1953?). The Chevrolet Corvette first appeared in 1953, and was designed to show that General Motors could compete in the sports car market with European manufacturers such as MG and Jaguar. All 1953 Corvettes were white with red interiors. The car is pictured on display at a motor show, possibly Paris. (Photo by National Motor Museum/Heritage Images/Getty Images)Heritage Images/Getty Images
The Z06 and ZR1 turned the Corvette into a track monsterIn 1963, famed engineer Zora Arkus-Duntov introduced the Z06 package on the C2, giving those with the pockets for it a race-ready Corvette from the factory.
In 1970, the ZR1 followed suit on the C3 Corvette as a $1,221 option that beefed up the engine and removed convenience features like power windows, power steering, air conditioning, a rear-window defogger, wheel covers, or a radio. This was a competition car, and you felt it through and through.
Side profile view of a 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray in Rapid Blue driving over a bridge. The latest generation of the Corvette, the C8, is ground-breaking in its own right for being the first Corvette to have a rear mid-engine configuration. The base 6.2 L L2 crossplane OHV V8 engine puts out 490 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque through an 8-speed dual-clutch automated transmission, 40 hp and 10 lb-ft more than the previous C7 Corvette.
As with previous Corvettes, such as the C6, both Z06 and ZR1 packages are available for enthusiasts wishing to spice up their experience in either coupe or convertible body style. Both are fast, don’t get us wrong, but some key differences may sway you to opt for one over the other.
The C8 Corvette Z06’s NA 5.5 L LT6 V8 seems tame compared to the ZR1’s twin-turbo 5.5 L LT7 V8 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 in Amplify Orange TintChevrolet
Despite the lower displacement when compared to the base C8 engine, the Z06’s LT6 benefits from a cast aluminum block, forged aluminum pistons, forged titanium connecting rods, and other goodies allowing it to scream out 670 hp at an insane 8,400 rpm and 460 lb-ft of torque. The 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is the same but with a shorter final drive ratio for better acceleration and a 0-60 mph time of 2.6 seconds. Top speed is 195 mph.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 in Competition YellowChevrolet
The ZR1’s LT7 is equipped with two turbos for a total of 1,064 hp at 7,000 rpm and 828 ft-lb of torque. Despite also using the 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, the top speed for the ZR1 is 215 mph. While Chevy has yet to release an official 0-60 mph time, their advertised sub-10-second quarter-mile time will likely lead to an even lower 0-60 time.
Related: How the 2025 Corvette ZR1 moved from supercar to hypercar
Both the Z06 and ZR1 take advantage of aero tricks Chevrolet Corvette Z06 in Amplify Orange TintChevrolet
Less drag and more downforce are the key concepts for both. The Z06 comes with a front splitter and stall gurneys in the front, while a rear spoiler with a detachable Gurney flap produced 365 lb of downforce at 186 mph. Owners who want even more downforce can opt for the Z07 carbon fiber performance package that enlarges the front splitter, adds canards, a pedestal-mounted rear wing, underbody aero strakes, and removes the stall gurneys for even more downforce. The Z06 also comes standard with Michelin Cup 2 R ZP tires on 20-inch wheels up front and 21 inches in the back.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 in Competition YellowChevrolet
The ZR1 brings new additions to keep the extra horses planted to the pavement including a flow-through hood, carbon fiber side ducts for the rear brakes, and roof-mounted ducts for cooling the turbos. In the same way as the Z07 carbon fiber package, ZR1 owners can get the ZTK Performance Pack for stiffer springs, Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires, underbody strakes, as well as carbon fiber high-downforce rear wing, front canards, and a tall hood Gurney lip. The wheel sizes remain the same.
The interior stays nice and comfy in both carsLeather, metal, and suede encompass the inside of both the Z06 and ZR1, providing a cushy place for drivers to put the pedal to the floor. Behind the squared-off steering wheel is a 12.0-inch reconfigurable gauge display that adds a turbo-boost gauge in the ZR1. The large infotainment touchscreen is angled toward the driver while the “button pedestal” gives easy access to some essential features.
Chevrolet Corvette Z06 InteriorChevrolet
You have to make sure people know you have a ZR1 though, if the exterior aero bits didn’t already give it away. Chevy agrees and has included a ZR1 plaque on the inside, special sill plates, and steering-wheel graphics.
Related: 2025 Audi Q7: Sharpens its style, enhances tech, and stays relevant in the luxury SUV game
The ZR1 strays away from the 2LZ trim, but will include the 1LZ and 3LZThe Z06 comes in three trim levels, the 1LZ, 2LZ, and 3LZ, all available in either coupe or convertible configuration. Each one adds various interior luxury features depending on how comfy you want your track experience to be.
Of note are the removable roof panel and 8-way power GT1 seats in the 1LZ, Bose Performance Series 14-speaker audio system, heated and ventilated seats with lumbar/wing adjust in the 2LZ, and a carbon fiber-trimmed steering wheel, leather-wrapped instrument panel and doors, sueded microfiber upper interior trim, and leather/carbon-fiber GT2 seats in the 3LZ.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Special Yellow InteriorChevrolet
The ZR1’s 1LZ and 3LZ include the same features as they do on the Z06. The 3LZ trim stands out with a geometric stitch pattern on the door paired with stitching on both the steering wheel and seats in either yellow or blue.
Exceptional value for supercar-level performanceIn its base 1LZ configuration, the C8 Corvette Z06 starts at $111,795 as a coupe and $118,795 as a convertible. In the highest-trim 3LZ, the Z06 Coupe starts at $128,940 with the convertible climbing to $135,940.
Chevy has yet to announce a price for the C8 Corvette ZR1, but some are expecting a starting price for the ZR1 to be anywhere from $150,000 to $180,000 for the 1LZ $200,000 to $220,000 for the 3LZ. Factor in the price increases for a convertible version, and you’re likely to see those figures go even higher.
Final thoughtsWe won’t pretend like there is a winner here. Both cars are incredible in their own right and offer performance figures that you won’t find anywhere else for this price. Some might even argue that the performance figures put the C8 in the supercar category with the likes of Ferrari, McLaren, and Lamborghini.
Regardless of your opinion on that, it’s hard to argue that playing for the home team has its advantages, and both the Z06 and ZR1 will give some supercar owners a run for their money whether on the street or on the track.
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The Toyota Land Cruiser is legendary in the off-road community. In production since 1951, its reputation for reliability and longevity has made it extremely popular in certain markets like Australia and Africa where rough terrain is commonplace.
Historically, the Land Cruiser has been split into three series: the Heavy Duty, which prioritizes durability and off-road prowess, the Station Wagon, which focuses more on comfort and interior space, and the Light Duty (sold as Prado in some markets), which is a more comfortable version of the Heavy Duty.
UNITED STATES - JANUARY 11: 1967 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ45 Longbed Pickup. (Photo by Ken Fermoyle/The Enthusiast Network via Getty Images/Getty Images)The Enthusiast Network/Getty Images
On August 2, 2023, Toyota announced the new Light Duty J250 Land Cruiser, replacing the J150 that had been in production since 2009. This also marks the return of the Land Cruiser to the US market after poor sales of the J200 “Station Wagon” model led to us not getting the J300 stateside.
Related: 2025 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Exploring key differences
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser goes retro with appearance reminiscent of the 1980s J60 Land CruiserRight off the bat, the new Land Cruiser marks a stark departure from the previous generation in both powertrain and design. The J250 model is not only more compact but also features a retro, boxy appearance reminiscent of the 1980s J60 Land Cruiser, contrasting with the sleek lines typically seen in modern SUVs. It would look right at home in a driveway next to the new Hyundai Santa Fe though.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser off-roading 2024 Land Cruiser is smaller yet stronger with a 50% increase in frame rigidity Despite the size difference, Toyota claims this new Land Cruiser is 30% more rigid overall than the outgoing model with a 50% increase in frame rigidity specifically. All models are equipped with a full-time four-wheel drive system, a center locking differential, and an electronic two-speed transfer case with high/low range. Also standard is an electronic locking rear differential that can split power to the rear wheels for better performance on rough terrain.
The new electronic power steering will be particularly useful for rock crawling, as it provides smoother steering wheel control at low speeds. The maximum approach and departure angle are 31.0 degrees and 22.0 degrees respectively, with a 25-degree breakover angle. Ground clearance is a pretty respectable 8.7 in.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser interiorToyota
Retro interior design with a modern 12.3-inch Android-based multimedia systemThe interior is a lovely place to be when maneuvering your Land Cruiser off the beaten path, with a fairly minimalistic and modern aesthetic to keep your attention on the trail. The cushy seats can be wrapped in either cloth or a leather-like material depending on trim. An 8-inch or 12.3-inch multimedia display, also depending on the trim level, gives easy access to all the necessary information and features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Qi wireless charging and a head-up display further amplify the convenience without being overly cumbersome.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser engine bayToyota
The new Land Cruiser only gets a hybrid four-cylinder in the USWhile the previous generation Land Cruiser offered the US market a 5.7L V8 engine, this new generation is only offered with the turbocharger 2.4L 4-cylinder i-FORCE MAX Hybrid engine backed by an 8-speed automatic transmission. Power is rated at 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque with a 6,000 lb max towing capacity. Not bad for its size!
The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser starts from $55,950—let’s explore all three trim levels 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 1958Toyota
Land Cruiser 1958Want your Land Cruiser to stand out from the crowd? Toyota will offer three trim levels to choose from, starting with the base Land Cruiser 1958, named after the first year the model was available in the US. Starting at $55,950, the 1958 sports round headlights, rugged-looking unpainted plastic panels, and cloth seats. Color choices are spartan, with only white, black, and gray on offer. It’s basic but efficient.
2024 Toyota Land CruiserToyota
Land CruiserStep up to the mid-level “Land Cruiser”, and the price jumps to $61,950. For your extra money though, you get a Multi-Terrain Monitor, heated and ventilated front seats, an optional console cooler, a 2,400-watt inverter, RIGID color-selectable fog lights, wider tires, a locking rear differential, and a Stabilizer Disconnect Mechanism. This version also stands out from the 1958 by substituting the round headlights for rectangular ones and painting the plastic panels. Two-tone colorways also enter the fray.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser First EditionToyota
First EditionIf you’re the “go big or go home” type, the First Edition is what you’ll want. With a base MSRP of $74,950, a $19,000 increase from the base 1958 model, the Land Cruiser First Edition keeps the 1958’s round headlights and adds a roof rack, rock rails, a front skid plate, and heavy-duty mudflaps all around. The interior gets a touch of luxury too with leather-trimmed seats, a 14-speaker JBL setup, and an embossed “FIRST EDITION” logo for full bragging rights.
The new 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser stands out in the best way“Small but mighty” perfectly sums up the new Land Cruiser. In an era when monstrous trucks dominate the US roads, Toyota demonstrates that exceptional on-road and off-road performance doesn't require sheer size alone. The design is also a welcome departure from the modern norm and a callback to our beloved retro angles that other manufacturers seem to be pursuing as well.
The trim levels also provide ample flexibility whether you’re looking for a basic SUV like the 1958 to tackle off-road terrain or a top-of-the-line rock crawler like the First Edition to stay competitive on the trails. It’s the perfect balance, and we couldn’t be more pleased with it.
Related: 2025 Toyota 4Runner: After 15 years of waiting, here’s how the new generation raises the bar
Over 5,000 reasons to celebrateIf you’re a fan of Elon Musk’s automotive brainchild start-up turned innovative behemoth, this summer has its fair share of good news. In the month of July alone, Automotive News reported that Tesla managed to sell over 5,100 Cybertrucks, not to mention their other EVs. Tesla also managed to secure pre-orders for more than 5,500 of their angular trucks in the same period, about half of the total registrations of all EV trucks in the US. Put another way, out of everyone who wants an EV truck badly enough to pre-register, one out of every two of them are putting their money behind Tesla.
Leaving money on the tableNotice something a little strange about the math, however? You’re not alone: there’s about a 400 unit shortage between the number of trucks Tesla can physically produce, and the number people want to buy. All told, Tesla has an estimated backlog of two million Cybertruck pre-orders, and month by month that number is only growing larger thanks to this deficit.
Related: Automakers sound alarm after EU electric vehicle sales crash
The EV truck market is currently small and still developing and emerging, and it’s not a guarantee that Tesla can keep their current lead against solid competitors like the Rivian R1T, Ford’s F-150 Lightning, the EV version of Chevy’s Silverado, and even the peculiar yet charming Hummer EV.
A growing pie waiting to be slicedAll of these competitors are also benefiting from the rise in EV truck demand, and unlike Tesla, seem to be able to put out their trucks fast enough to actually put keys into waiting consumer hands. While the orders for EV trucks to date are up over 118,000 compared to last year’s roughly 101,000, Tesla’s share of them has decreased as their production languishes, from 56% to 48%. The Verge even reports that their overall delivery of EVs has shrunk slightly this quarter compared to last, and last quarter was also down from 2023 year’s end.
The price of supply and demandUnless Tesla changes their trajectory, Cybertruck seems poised to remain a relatively stable force in a growing market, slipping from it’s top position into a lane of comfortable but unimpressive complacence. Adopting this strategy is not completely without merit either; when everyone wants what you have, and there’s a scarce supply, you can raise prices to offset lost potential sales, which Tesla has already been doing.
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES - AUGUST 24: A view of Tesla Cybertruck at Electrify Expo San Francisco, the largest electric vehicles (EV) event in North America is held in Alameda, California, United States on August 24, 2024. (Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu via Getty Images)Anadolu/Getty Images
The price of a new Cybertruck, pre-ordered, is now nearly $100,000, and the wait times are only getting longer. As long as people still want to accept those terms, Tesla can comfortably chug along at the current pace and rack up higher and higher prices for the same amount of production.
Tesla isn’t the only game in townHowever, such an outcome is not a guarantee. There comes a tipping point where more and more buyers will get tired of waiting, or overpaying for the ‘privilege’ of doing so, especially when there are alternatives readily available. Listed below are some of the competition the Cybertruck is facing, as well as a short rundown of why consumers might elect to go with one of them instead.
Chevy’s chaser: the Silverado EVIf you have $100,000 burning a hole in your pocket, you don’t have to wait years for a Cybertruck: Chevy’s 2024 Silverado EV is just about as expensive, but will be ready much much sooner. It’s also a respected legacy manufacturer with a large base of institutional knowledge to draw on for a smooth and refined end design.
The Chevrolet Silverado EV truck during the 2022 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) in New York, U.S., on Thursday, April 14, 2022. The NYIAS returns after being cancelled for two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty ImagesBloomberg/Getty Images
The happy-go-lucky Hummer EVMaybe the SIlverado is a little too traditional for your taste, and the unique profile and quirkiness of the Cybertruck is a big selling point to you. Why not consider the 2024 Hummer EV? Its base price of about $97,000 is equivalent to the Cybertruck and Silverado EV, but it certainly stands on its own in terms of style and symbolism. Hummer was once the notorious punchline of the inefficient, gas-guzzling monstrosities on the road in the US, however the rebranded Hummer EV is anything but. It keeps aesthetics of the Hummer design, but in a robust truck form and with the ecological peace of mind of an EV. It might not turn heads quite as starkly as the radical Cybertruck look, but for some consumers looking for that stand-out sensational feeling now as opposed to who knows when, it might be just what they need.
A 2024 GMC Hummer electric vehicle (EV) during the 2024 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) in New York, US, on Thursday, March 28, 2024. The event, which first opened in November 1900, is North America's oldest and largest attended auto show. Photographer: Bing Guan/Bloomberg via Getty ImagesBloomberg/Getty Images
Rival at a reasonable price: Rivian R1TPerhaps these options all come with a price tag that’s just a tad steep. Rivian’s 2024 R1T is here to the rescue! From just under $70,000, it packs just as much punch as the heavier hitters in a less expensive package. With a lot of favorable comparability to the above options, what’s not to love about a truck that will cost you less and whose wheel you can get this decade?
A Rivian R1T electric vehicle (EV) pickup truck, left, and R1S electric sports utility vehicle (SUV) at the company's showroom in New York, US, on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. Rivian Automotive Inc. missed expectations for quarterly electric vehicle deliveries, weighing on the manufacturer's shares even as production ramped up during the past year. Photographer: Yuki Iwamura/Bloomberg via Getty ImagesBloomberg/Getty Images
Letting out all the stops with Ford’s F-150 Lightning EVWhat if you could buy two EV trucks for nearly the same price of one Cybertruck? Ford asks and answers this question with the 2024 F150 Lightning. With an MSRP of less than $55,000, it’s a surprisingly, one might even say innovatively affordable option considering the iconic F-150 branding and Ford’s reputation as one of the older and established carmakers.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 24: The Ford F-150 Lightning is displayed during the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show at the Los Angeles Convention Center on November 24, 2023 in Los Angeles, California. This year’s edition of the Los Angeles Auto Show includes a range of new SUV models. (Photo by Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images)Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images
It may not have all the bells and whistles as the more expensive offerings (although, perhaps more than you might think), but half the price is half the price, and if Ford continues to hold the affordability corner of the EV truck market, it is not hard to imagine they might make it to the number one spot in market share sooner than later.
All forks full circleIt is undoubtedly a good sign for Tesla that, for now at least, their brand image is carrying demand and building hype for the Cybertruck. For the immediate future, at least, Tesla should remain the dominant force in the EV truck market as the orders pour in and seemingly every truck they can make flies off the lots as fast as they arrive.
However, other manufacturers have serious contenders in the game now, each with their own selling points over the heavily delayed Cybertruck fulfilled orders. Tesla controls the biggest piece of the pie for now, but as that pie grows bigger, it may be ill prepared to take any more, and even the piece it has might be under threat if bottleneck production and high prices continue… and the competition is hungry.
Related: Ford CEO says the Chinese EV industry is biggest threat to his business
There are many reasons to love electric vehicles — they’re powerful, they can charge using electricity generated in a variety of ways instead of relying on gas, and they’re often packed with state-of-the-art features and gizmos.
But what if not everyone wants one?
The declining demand for EV's in EuropeThat is the situation in Europe, where the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA), which represents the interests of 15 major Europe-based automotive brands, including icons like BMW, Ferrari, Mercedes, Renault, Volkswagen, and others, is sounding the alarm about a steady slide in EV sales now turning into a precipitous freefall.
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So far this year, unit sales for true EVs are down 8.4%, and this decline has been ongoing for a while. The situation is even bleaker for hybrids, with sales down nearly 14% compared to last year.
ACEA has pleaded with European lawmakers to provide relief and ease the burden of CO2 reduction laws on vans and buses that will come into effect leading into the new year. They also called for a review of light and heavy-duty vehicle rules slated for 2026 and 2027, urging that these discussions be moved up to the next year.
European carmakers insist they are committed to complying with the greenification of Europe’s roads and manufacturing, and they claim to have the technology to do it. However, they argue that critical societal shifts and policy decisions are not keeping pace.
This may be a subtle critique of the slow and confusing progress on effective EV import regulations, especially when it comes to heavily subsidized carmakers from developing countries like China. These countries have a competitive advantage partly due to lax environmental rules, which European manufacturers must abide by.
VW ID.4 on production line in Europe.VW
That may only be part of the concern. ACEA also reports that the entire EV market, not just the share controlled by its members, is in a continuing and accelerating downturn. The report lists several compounding factors, including:
- A lack of charging infrastructure
- Insufficient green energy production
- Uncompetitive manufacturing laws
- The structure of purchase and tax incentives for buyers
- Insecurity and uncertainty over access to raw materials, especially for batteries
- Poor economic growth
- Consumer acceptance of EVs
- Lack of consumer confidence in Europe’s commitment to developing infrastructure in a timely manner
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These are significant hurdles to overcome, and the laws passed to transition Europe to a greener future were written before many of these challenges were fully understood. Covid-19 hit Europe’s auto market hard, with sales still 18% lower than they were pre-pandemic. Russia’s war in Ukraine has also shaken confidence in Europe and prompted many to revert to familiar, reliable options instead of taking risks on future technologies.
ACEA reports that only 16% of non-EV owners are considering switching with their next purchase, down from 18% three years ago. Even more troubling, 20% of current EV owners are strongly considering a return to traditional combustion engines, despite Europe’s climate targets.
What's at stake for Europe's automotive future?At the conclusion of their report, ACEA warns that, in light of these realities, automakers will either have to pay massive fines to sell people the cars they want — money that could have been invested in becoming more competitive and producing more EVs — or they will have to cut production so drastically that the resulting job losses would weaken Europe’s economy and supply chains, exacerbating the conditions that caused the slump in the first place.
Their plea to EU lawmakers is clear: change the laws to support the automotive sector in building a climate-responsible and economically competitive industry, or everyone loses.
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It turns out that Toyota’s pickups might not be as reliable as once thought. Several owners of 2024 model year Tacomas in the US have reported automatic transmission issues or outright failures, some occurring within the first 1,000 miles. The good news is that Toyota will now replace some of those faulty transmissions if they meet certain requirements.
Not every 2024 Tacoma transmission may be eligible for replacementA technical service bulletin sent by the Japanese automaker to dealerships last week outlines several 2024 Tacoma VINs prone to this issue, all equipped with the eight-speed automatic transmission. However, the trucks must already exhibit failures to qualify for replacement, meaning owners still on the road must wait until a breakdown occurs to be eligible.
Another caveat is that the vehicle must report one of six specific trouble codes, indicating either a stuck pressure control solenoid actuator or a torque converter clutch actuator stuck in the off position, according to a post on the Tacoma4G forums. Thankfully, the manual transmission is unaffected by this fault, so if you belong to the Manual Gearbox Preservation Society, you have nothing to fear. Ironically, the 2025 Tacoma remains the last pickup truck in the US to offer a manual transmission.
Toyota is not having a great summer with recallsThis isn’t the first time Toyota has faced a major issue with one of its vehicles in 2024. In July, the automaker announced that certain engines in Toyota Tundra trucks and Lexus LX SUVs needed to be replaced due to machining debris left in the engine during manufacturing. The total number of affected engines is expected to exceed 100,000, with more Tundras affected than LXs.
2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD exterior.Toyota
Toyota made the right move here, but at what cost?Replacing an entire transmission and torque assembly due to a manufacturing fault is undoubtedly the right decision. What might be harder to justify, however, is the decision to wait until the fault appears before taking action. The impact this will have on the number of automatic 2024 Tacomas sold remains unclear. Good luck winning the automatic vs. manual transmission debate if you own one of these, though.
After a long production run of 15 years, Toyota has finally introduced the successor to the fifth-generation 4Runner. The latest 2025 Toyota 4Runner marks the first model year of the sixth generation off-road focused midsize SUV. The first-generation 4Runner was simply an SUV iteration of the fourth-generation Toyota Hilux pickup truck. Over four decades and five generations, the physical dimensions and reputation of the 4Runner have grown exponentially. It now holds iconic status among the few truly off-road-ready midsize SUVs.
2025 Toyota 4Runner gets a 278-HP turbocharged base powertrainThe outgoing 2024 Toyota 4Runner was propelled by a 270-hp naturally aspirated V6 mated to a 5-speed automatic. For 2025, Toyota has come fully prepared to take on the most modern midsize adventure-ready SUV contenders. The base powertrain offered with the 2025 Toyota 4Runner is dubbed i-Force. It comprises a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that cranks out a healthy 278 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. This is an increase of 8 horsepower and, more significantly, 39 lb-ft of torque over the old V6. It comes paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and is the standard powertrain in the SR5, TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and Limited trims of the new 4Runner.
2025 Toyota 4Runner exterior.Toyota
Optional hybrid i-Force MAX powertrain makes 326-HPNow that the base powertrain is more powerful than the outgoing V6, let’s meet the star of the show. Optional for the TRD Off-Road and Limited trims, and standard on the high-end TRD Pro, Trailhunter, and Platinum models is a four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. Toyota calls it i-Force MAX, and this powerhouse consists of a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with a 48-hp electric motor. This electric motor is integrated into the 8-speed transmission and powered by a 1.87-kWh battery pack. The total output generated by the system is an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. To put that into context, the twin-turbo V6 in the 2024 Ford Bronco outputs 330 horses and 415 lb-ft. Clearly, the new 4Runner arrives with serious firepower.
Related: 2025 Audi Q7: Sharpens its style, enhances tech, and stays relevant in the luxury SUV game
All-new factory-built overlanding trim, dubbed “Trailhunter”The TRD PRO has historically been the fiercest, most capable trim of the Toyota 4Runner. The new 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD PRO is sure to uphold this reputation, coming packed with serious off-roading hardware. The latest 4Runner TRD PRO comes equipped with a TRD-tuned FOX suspension setup and 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tires. However, alongside this beast, Toyota is adding another monstrous creation to the new lineup. The 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter which is a factory-built overlanding rig.
2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter wheel.Toyota
Toyota partnered with several off-road component companies to create the Trailhunter. It is enhanced with hardware including ARB’s Old Man Emu (OME) 2.5-inch forged shocks and 33-inch Toyo Open Country A/T tires. This combination adds an extra 2 inches of ground clearance, while high-strength steel skid plates ensure enhanced protection off the beaten path. Unique elements don’t end there, as the Trailhunter is equipped with even more. A 20-inch LED light bar, an inbuilt 2400W AC inverter, and several pre-wired auxiliary switches are also part of the standard equipment list.
Related: 2025 Toyota 4Runner vs 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser: Exploring key differences
All 4WD 4Runners are equipped with a two-speed transfer case and an automatic limited-slip differential. On top of that, the TRD Off-Road, TRD PRO, and the newly added Trailhunter models feature an electronic locking rear differential.
2025 4Runner gets all-new android based infotainment systemRegarding cutting-edge infotainment features, the new 4Runner is loaded with them. While the base touchscreen’s size remains unchanged at 8 inches, a larger, higher-definition 14-inch touchscreen has been added to the feature set. Higher-end trims of the 2025 4Runner are also equipped with a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Furthermore, a Smart Key system with a push-button start is standard across all trims.
2025 Toyota 4Runner interior.Toyota
Final thoughtsThe 4Runner is a true legend in the Toyota lineup, with a fanbase that borders on cult status. Now, with the new generation ditching the V6 in favor of punchier hybrid and turbocharged engines, it’s sure to stir some opinions. We all knew this day would come, though! The 4Runner was conquering trails long before off-roading became trendy—so while every automaker now has their version of a "rugged" trim, the 4Runner still offers the real deal for those who actually get their tires dirty.
Related: 2025 Rivian R1S: Blistering acceleration, new batteries, and prices to match
One of the main concerns surrounding the increasing popularity of EVs and hybrids has been the future of their batteries once they are depleted. It seems the solution may come earlier than expected thanks to a recent announcement from BMW.
Why BMW's partnership with Redwood Materials is a game-changer for EV sustainabilityIn a press release, BMW of North America announced their partnership with Redwood Materials to recycle lithium-ion batteries from their electric, plug-in hybrid-electric, and mild hybrid BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce, and BMW Motorrad vehicles.
With the help of Redwood Materials, BMW’s network of almost 700 dealerships, distribution centers, and other facilities will remove the spent batteries from vehicles, extract minerals like nickel, cobalt, lithium, and copper, and return the majority of them to the battery supply chain. Redwood Materials claims its recycling process has a significantly lower footprint than competing companies, reportedly “reducing energy by 80%, CO2 emissions by 70%, and water by 80%.”
Who is Redwood Materials anyway?Redwood was founded in 2017 by JB Straubel, a Tesla co-founder and ex-chief technology officer of the company. For the past seven years, their recycling resume includes car brands like Tesla, Ford, GM, Toyota, and Nissan as well as Amazon and Rad Power Bikes.
BMW i4 EV front.BMW
The company currently has a location in Reno, Nevada, with one under construction in Charleston, South Carolina. That latter location may prove key to this partnership, as BMW has plants in both Spartanburg and Woodruff where at least six EVs and their batteries will be assembled. The company manufacturing those batteries, AESC, also has a plant in Florence, SC.
BMW is investing heavily in the EV spaceThe German automaker currently offers five electric models, the i4, i5, and, i7 sedan as well as the iX SUV. The cheapest of the bunch, the i4, starts at $57,900 with a range of 283 to 307 miles while the executive i7 goes big in size and price starting at $105,700 with 274 to 321 miles of range. Three more electric models are expected to hit the scene in the next two years. The iX3, a redesign of the compact i3, a 3-series EV to slot below the i4, and the i5 M, a performance version of the i5 with a reported 1136 horsepower.
BMW i4 charging side view.BMW
The future is looking even greenerThe partnership between the two companies signals a move in the right direction for the future of EVs. Largely touted as the better alternative to fossil fuels, this latest development might quell the naysayers who often quoted the lack of battery recycling as a major worry. That’s not to say that this fixes the problems of battery development which have been reported to be energy-intensive and rely on illegal labor in developing countries. That said though, this gives us hope that we’ll figure it all out sooner rather than later.
Related: 2025 Rivian R1S: Blistering acceleration, new batteries, and prices to match
The Audi Q7 is a stylish, dynamic, and practical three-row contender in the midsize luxury SUV segment. Audi offers this exceptional combination of desirable attributes at a competitive price point. However, I believe the Q7 still isn't receiving the attention it deserves. To stir things up, Audi has given the 2025 Q7 a styling refresh and a mild overhaul. The exterior has been extensively revamped with new design elements, and the options list has been updated with several new features, including fresh color options, upholstery choices, and upgrades to the infotainment system. The powertrains, however, remain unchanged.
The 2025 Audi Q7 flaunts restyled bodywork and new color optionsAudi has significantly reworked the exterior styling of the 2025 Q7. The most noticeable change is at the front, where the large signature Audi Singleframe grille has been restyled with vertical inlays and redesigned contours. The headlamps have been slightly tweaked, and they are now more seamlessly integrated into the grille. Additionally, the Matrix-design LED headlights are now standard across all 2025 Q7 models. Overall, the front end appears sleeker, cleaner, and more cohesive. I particularly love the optional Black Optic package, which darkens the grille and adds a dark finish to the Audi logo.
2025 Audi Q7 exterior.Kyle Edward
Audi has also refined both the front and rear bumpers, enhancing them with a redesigned front spoiler and a more aggressive rear diffuser, giving the vehicle a sportier look. In fact, I find the aesthetics of the new Q7 more impressive than those of its sportier sibling, the 2025 Audi SQ7. The color palette has been expanded with three new shades: Sakhir Gold Metallic, Ascari Blue Metallic, and Chili Red Metallic. A couple of new alloy wheel options are also available.
Related: 2025 Rivian R1S range guide: How far an EV crossover will take you on a full charge
The 2025 Audi Q7 gets interior updates and enhanced tech featuresAll the luxurious elements found in the 2024 Q7's cabin have been retained in the 2025 model, which is great to see. However, a few new additions elevate the overall user experience in this luxury SUV. The base model now features upholstery with gray seam stitching. A new available Executive Package adds several features, including four-zone automatic climate control, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, rear sunshades, dual-pane acoustic glass, and traffic sign recognition. On the technology front, Audi has introduced a significant update: the 2025 Q7 now supports third-party apps. Popular applications such as Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube can now be downloaded from the Audi App Store, offering easier media access and connectivity.
2025 Audi Q7 interior.Audi
The two powertrains from the 2024 Audi Q7 carry over unchanged for the 2025 model. The base "45" grade trims are powered by a 261-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while the higher-end "55" grade gets a punchier 335-hp turbocharged V6. Both engines are paired with a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission.
2025 Audi Q7 pricingThe 2025 Audi Q7 lineup starts with the 45 Premium at $60,500, featuring quattro all-wheel drive, 19" wheels, and Matrix-design LED headlights. The 55 Premium, priced at $65,800, adds adaptive cruise assist and a power-folding 3rd row, while upgrading to a more potent 335-hp V6, compared to the 261-hp 4-cylinder in the 45 Premium. The top-tier 55 Prestige starts at $77,900 and includes adaptive air suspension, ventilated and massaging seats, and advanced tech like remote park assist and a head-up display.
2025 Audi Q7 exterior.Kyle Edward
Final thoughtsThe 2025 Audi Q7 retains its inherent positives, such as comfortable ride quality and engaging dynamics, now presented in a sleeker, sportier package with an expanded feature set. Once again, I emphasize that this is one of the best all-around vehicles in the midsize luxury SUV segment—not just in one specific area, but in an all-encompassing sense.
At its core, the Mercedes-AMG GT is a low-slung, curvy, two-door sports car introduced back in 2014 by the German automaker. It was Mercedes' second in-house sports car after the gull-wing SLS AMG. The second generation hit the scene in August, 2023 at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The new AMG GT, internally called the C192, is built on the same platform as the new SL and will only be offered in a coupe body style.
What powers the AMG GT?Much like the first-generation AMG GT, various models correspond to different powertrains, with the lowest GT 43 housing the M139 2.0L hybrid turbocharged I4 putting out 416 hp, and the top-of-the-line GT 63 S E-Performance offering the M177 4.0L plug-in hybrid twin-turbo V8 with 805 hp. A 9-speed automatic AMG Speedshift MCT transmission backs all models. Unlike its predecessor, however, the C192 offers 4MATIC+ AWD and a 2+2 seating arrangement despite being a two-door coupe.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO Motorsport Collectors Edition exterior.Mercedes-Benz
What does the Motorsport Collectors Edition add to the AMG GT 63 PRO?Extraordinary cars need special models and Mercedes-Benz is not one to skip out on the occasion. Announced in collaboration with Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, the 1-of-200 GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ Motorsport Collectors Edition is built upon the next-to-highest-tier GT 63 PRO, featuring the same 4.0L plug-in hybrid twin-turbo V8 as the GT 63 S but with 603 hp. That doesn’t stop it from achieving a 0-62 mph time of 3.2 seconds, just .4 seconds behind the top-tier GT 63 S E-Performance.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO Motorsport Collectors Edition exterior.Mercedes-Benz
How much will the Motorsport Collectors Edition cost?While no price was announced and all units are likely already spoken for, the “regular” GT 63 PRO starts at around $185,000, so one could easily assume a sticker price well over $200,000 for the Motorsports Collectors Edition.
Motorsport Collectors Edition limited to just 200 units worldwide This rare GT 63 focuses solely on the exterior. Over the base Obsidian Black Metallic paint inspired by the Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 car lays a beautiful blanket of hand-painted stars akin to what you would see on a Rolls-Royce Starlight headliner. Various accent pieces around the car, including the front splitter, sill panels, and rear diffuser, are finished in the distinct cyan color of PETRONAS, the Malaysian oil and gas company that has been the Title and Technical Partner to the Mercedes-AMG Formula One Team since 2010.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO Motorsport Collectors Edition exterior.Mercedes-Benz
The outer rims of the black 21-inch AMG forged split-spoke wheels have the same PETRONAS accents and are wrapped in beefy Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires sized at 295/30 ZR 21 in the front and 305/30 ZR 21 in the rear. Stopping power is provided by the standard 16.5-inch carbon ceramic discs with six-piston fixed calipers up front and single-piston floating calipers out back.
Rounding out the exterior are the AMG Aerodynamics Package, AMG Exterior Carbon Fiber Package, and AMG Extended Night Package. The first two provide the carbon fiber-finished splitter, diffuser, side sills, and wing while the latter darkens the grill, model badge, and Mercedes star at the rear.
But wait, there’s even more insideThe party continues once you open the door, with PETRONAS-colored stitching adorning the black Nappa leather & microfiber upholstery, door panels, instrument panel, center console, and steering wheel. The door sills also light up in the same cyan, in case onlookers haven’t quite figured out how special the AMG GT is yet. Lastly, a special indoor car cover is included in the purchase to protect your ride when you’re not showing it off.
Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO Motorsport Collectors Edition interior.Mercedes-Benz
Final thoughtsFor the Mercedes-AMG F1 enthusiast, this special edition AMG GT 63 PRO is likely a godsend, allowing them to rep their favorite team wherever there is pavement. Even for those who aren’t into F1, the stars and the accents make this one of the most epic special editions on the market right now, and that’s something worth taking a beat to appreciate.
GM EV drivers can breathe a sigh of relief when their vehicle needs a charge as the automaker announced today that their cars are now compatible with Tesla’s expansive Supercharging network. Chevy, Cadillac, and GMC will all be able to take advantage of the change.
GM EVs charging at Tesla charging station.GM
No such thing as free lunch for GM SAE J3400 adaptersIt’s not quite an early Christmas gift though, as owners will need to buy a “GM Approved” SAE J3400 adapter through the app of each respective GM brand for $225 for the vehicles to be able to “talk” to the Tesla Superchargers. While no specific manufacturer was mentioned in the release, the company said they are “leveraging multiple suppliers” to produce them. The adapters will arrive in the US first, with a Canadian release following later this year.
Related: 2025 Rivian R1S range guide: How far an EV crossover will take you on a full charge
Those same apps will also host maps of available Tesla Superchargers, information about their status, and even the ability to pre-pay for a charge before arrival. Non-Tesla drivers will have to pay a little more to charge at Superchargers, including a $1/minute idle fee if the car is left alone after being fully charged.
By adding over 17,800 Tesla Superchargers, GM touts that its customers now have access to “more than 231,800 public Level 2 and DC fast chargers in North America.”
What is the SAE J3400 plug anyway?The SAE J3400 fast charging plug, otherwise known as the North American Charging Standard (NACS), is one of a few types of chargers used on electric vehicles. In August 2024, it was declared a “Recommended Practice” bringing it one step closer to standardization throughout the electric vehicle sector. Think about it as USB-C vs Micro USB and how you are more likely to see a USB-C port on your phone or laptop than Micro USB or any other connector.
2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV charging port.GM
Other manufacturers handled their adapter deliveries differentlyFord was the first to announce a similar plan last year, with just about every other automaker following suit and committing to using the SAE J3400 in future model years. GM originally announced this move in June of 2023 and expected everything to be ready by early spring of 2024 but production issues and layoffs at Tesla delayed the project.
Related: Ford CEO says the Chinese EV industry is biggest threat to his business
While committing to a single standard is a step in the right direction, the decision to sell the adapter might not be. Owners of 2021-2024 model year Ford EVs could request a free adapter between March 6th and June 30th of 2024. After that date, they would be available to purchase for $230. Rivian one-upped both companies by shipping every owner a free adapter starting in April of 2024. There is no mention of purchasing an adapter after that date, with the company instead stating that “for those taking delivery in April and beyond, we’ll contact you separately about getting your adapter.”
There are always third-party adapter alternativesOn the topic of price, EV owners might be tempted to buy a cheaper adapter from a third-party manufacturer rather than pay the OEM premium. Some of the big names on the market include the A2Z EV Typhoon Pro for $197 or the Lectron Vortex Plug for $199.99. Both offer nearly identical charging speeds, warranties, and weights, with the only differences being size and the inclusion of a carrying case.
More manufacturers are signed up for talks with Tesla about adopting the NACS standard, with Volvo, Polestar, Nissan, and Mercedes-Benz being next on the list. It remains to be seen how these companies handle the delivery of adapters to their customer base and if their methods will cause the existing players to change their strategies.
Lotus has given us a glimpse into its future with the “Theory 1” concept—a futuristic blend of the brand's core design principles and enough futuristic tech to keep the whole thing interesting. Despite looking firmly forward, the concept car doesn’t ditch Lotus’ roots and contains many similarities to vehicles of the past, the brand’s racing heritage, and Lotus’ contemporary vehicles.
“We want to demonstrate that you don’t need to compromise—with both digital and analog capabilities working harmoniously in the future car. In doing this, we are able to bring drivers the best possible immersive driving experience with raw emotion, functionality, and connectivity at the core,” said Lotus Group’s Vice President of Design, Ben Payne.
While you won’t be able to get your hands on a Lotus Theory 1, it does have a lot of features you’re likely to see on a vehicle bearing the British marque’s badge in the future.
Lotus Theory 1 exterior.
*View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article* Lotus Theory 1 can go from 0-60 in under 2.5 secondsThe Lotus Theory 1 can go from 0-60 in under 2.5 seconds. Powering the concept car is an electric motor, or two, or three, or possibly four. Lotus didn’t really specify. What we do know is that it is all-wheel drive, has an output of 1000 PS (986 horsepower), and can shoot from 0-60 in less than 2.5 seconds. Its top speed sits a hair under 199 mph, and a single charge will take a driver up to 250 miles.
Related: 2025 Rivian R1S range guide: How far an EV crossover will take you on a full charge
The brakes are sourced from AP Racing, which has a long-standing partnership with Lotus that stretches back to 1967. AP braking systems are one of the things that the Theory 1 has in common with Lotus’ current crop, featuring on vehicles like the Evija, Eletre, and Emeya. It also has a proprietary “wrap-around” door system that allows drivers to comfortably enter and exit the vehicle no matter where they park it.
The Lotus Theory 1 offers an F1-inspired performance boostThe vehicle’s aerodynamics play on the company’s racing heritage, with the nose cone packing both a diffuser and air deflectors, and a contoured underfloor designed to funnel air into the vehicle’s cooling system. Efforts have also gone into minimizing and mitigating the vehicle’s wake, with an air curtain fitted to the front that should help pull the wake in overall, and side pods fitted to further isolate any turbulent air and send it rearwards.
Lotus Theory 1 wheel. Lotus has mounted the Theory 1’s rear wing directly to the motor and suspension. So rather than pushing down on the vehicle’s body causing compression and spreading the load, any force generated will be sent directly to where it’s needed. That rear suspension also uses a pull-rod design, which is more compact and lowers the car’s center of gravity.
Lotus looked back on its racing heritage for the Theory 1It’s partially inspired by Lotus’ F1 history, notably the Lotus 49, with the motor and battery assembly acting as a “stressed member.” This dispenses with the need for a subframe, reducing both complexity and weight. There’s another potential “F1” nod too, though this time in the McLaren sense. The Theory 1 has three seats, with the driver’s spot in the center of the vehicle and room for two passengers offset behind.
Lotus Theory 1 exterior. Lotus has shown us a mix of analog and digitalWhile clever engineering is boosting performance on the “analog” front, Lotus is also showcasing a range of digital features that should improve safety, performance, and comfort. The car features “LOTUSWEAR”, the sports car brand’s proprietary immersive driver system. It’s designed to better connect a driver with both the vehicle and the road.
One example Lotus has given of how haptics could assist drivers involves a pulse on the left or right of the steering wheel to indicate when a driver should make a turn. The concept is also packing Lotus’ 360-degree sensor suite that can detect hazards from as far as 200 meters away. It’s LiDAR-powered, so it will spot objects no matter the lighting conditions or weather.
Drivers can experience ergonomic comfort in the Theory 1Each occupant of the car also has access to a 3D-printed headset, which pumps “speed” sounds directly into their ears should they want that kind of experience, or otherwise offers individual entertainment audio and noise-canceling capabilities.
Lotus Theory 1 interior. When the driver enters, the steering wheel and pedals move toward them. The seating is integrated into the structure of the vehicle, further connecting the driver with the core of the car. It’s all very ergonomic, futuristic, and exciting to see how much of the vehicle will eventually crop up in production models.
Final thoughtsThough the Theory 1 won't grace the streets, its avant-garde design, advanced aerodynamics, and performance figures make it standout amongst even the most stunning concepts. It's a concept car that not only honors Lotus's legacy but could also redefine the standards for future concept vehicles.
Ford’s CEO Jim Farley first sounded the warning back in May, after his visit to China, but it’s been quietly happening in the background for far longer; Chinese electric vehicles, or EVs, are gobbling up the Chinese domestic market. They may even be on pace to do the same globally. In a Wall Street Journal interview, Farley described the situation as an "existential threat" to Ford, highlighting the rapid pace at which Chinese automakers are advancing in the EV race.
Not a few years ago, China was a net importer of automobiles, serving as a highly lucrative destination for many international manufacturers including Japanese, German, US, and even UK companies. In 2022, however, the Chinese economy was exporting nearly as many cars by-value as it was importing. Not only that, but that market share of foreign firms selling within China was rapidly being consumed by a slew of young, nimble, and domestic challengers. It is abundantly clear that China is on-pace to continue expanding, with no clear indicator of where its zenith might be. Chinese EV manufacturers are making inroads into Europe, Asia, Africa, and even South America, with the Wall Street Journal reporting as many as 20% of auto sales in Mexico this year being of Chinese make and model.
Ford Mustang Mach-E exterior.Ford
So how is China doing it?There are several forces driving these changes, both propelling Chinese firms forward and keeping the brakes pressed firmly on more established manufacturers. In China, there is a general lack of regulation and bureaucratic red tape on start-up auto companies, which allows them to more easily experiment with and integrate Artificial Intelligence and other helpful technological innovations that make their cars stand out among competitors. There is also a general advantage enjoyed by China against other more mature economies, one of PPP, or Purchase Power Parity.
A comparatively cheap labor pool allows every step in making a car to be less expensive, giving a competitive edge. Consider just some of the many steps where paying lower wages saves money which can be reflected in lower prices for the end user: There is R&D for new technologies, design for the cars themselves, building the actual plants, operating expenses and management salaries, not to mention materials and assembly line manufacturing wages, maintenance and upgrades installed by skilled technicians, marketing and dealerships, and even they actual act of transporting of the final product, all which can be done with less cost thanks to the powerful economic advantage of PPP.
This is all before considering the fact that the Chinese government and business sector are very closely tied together, one being almost the economic policy extension of the other. Bloomberg reported that over the last 15 years China’s EV makers have received over $230 Billion in grants and subsidies, which further allows them to undercut and undermine other car manufacturers.
Related: 2025 Rivian R1S: Blistering acceleration, new batteries, and prices to match
An uncertain future for old giantsWhile all of these advantages may be throwing gas into the engine of Chinese carmakers, it only paints half of the picture. China was quick to secure rare earth mineral rights around the world and invest in their extraction, ensuring a steady supply of lithium and other components for their tech-heavy, cost-light cars.
In contrast, many mature manufacturing firms are or have in the past struggled to similarly secure their Lithium stockpiles and supply chains, stalling their initial jump into EVs. Labor in these economies is comparatively expensive, regulations are tougher, and of course for many, there are also friction with Unions to contend with, eating time and energy which might have been used to innovate.
There is also the question of infrastructure. While China has, seemingly, invested in simple and elegant charging solutions for their modern cities (if not quite so effective in rural areas), in much of Europe and the United States in particular, EV charging infrastructure is more of a mixed bag, if not a nightmare.
It also doesn’t help that many manufacturers have chosen to mitigate these challenges by the old adage ‘bigger is better’. Large SUVs and Trucks have increasingly become the staple of the American market, despite their added cost to build, high prices, and generally lower fuel/charge mileage.
Jim Farley acknowledged in the Wall Street Journal article that "executing to a Chinese standard is going to be the most important priority" Meanwhile, EV development and sales have stalled for the old giants, with high wages, high prices, charging woes, and the consequences of previously all but abandoning the small and medium car market all proving to be significant barriers to the speed of future growth.
Ford F-150 Lightning charging.Ford
The silver lining At present, Chinese EVs are unable to penetrate the US and much of the European market due to tariffs and a lack of a distribution and dealership network to make these cars an option. There is also a lingering stigma against Chinese manufacturing in general for being shoddy, cheap, and often unreliable. Concerns relating to privacy and information collection from the CCP also dissuade many from considering Chinese EVs, even in markets where they are available. Nevertheless, Farley warns that these barriers may not be sufficient to keep the Chinese EV industry from dominating the global market in the long term.
The urgency felt by Ford and other U.S. and European automakers is palpable. According to Farley, the Chinese EV industry is the 'biggest threat' to his business, highlighting the pressing need for established automakers to rethink their strategies and adapt quickly to the changing landscape.
More auto stories from Autoblog:
- 2024 BMW M2 vs. 2024 Audi RS3: An epic battle of German engineering
- How the 2025 Corvette ZR1 moved from supercar to hypercar
- 2025 Rivian R1S range guide: How far an EV SUV will take you on a full charge
The 2025 Nissan Kicks has officially arrived at dealerships, and from every angle, it marks a stark departure from the previous generation. The sneaker-inspired subcompact crossover SUV has matured, adopting a more assertive attitude. The softer curves of its predecessor have given way to bold lines and angles, further emphasized by new two-tone paint options available on the higher SV and SR trims.
2025 Nissan Kicks offers bold new design with rugged stylingNissan’s "V-Motion" grille and surrounding slim LED headlights give the Kicks a more modern and youthful appearance, while the matte plastic accents around the front, sides, and rear bumper add a rugged touch reminiscent of the Subaru Crosstrek. The redesigned taillights now extend down the rear quarter panels at a sharp angle, complementing the vehicle's overall design. Additionally, Nissan proudly showcases the embossed, color-keyed Kicks logo on the C-pillar—a subtle detail that makes the vehicle instantly recognizable.
2025 Nissan Kicks exterior.
*View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article* AWD makes an appearance on the all-new Nissan KicksUnder the hood lies a 2.0L MR20DD I4 engine, producing 139 hp and 140 lb-ft of torque, managed by an Xtronic CVT. While performance isn't the primary focus—evidenced by its 0-60 mph time of 9.5 to 9.8 seconds—the Kicks offers a respectable fuel economy of 28 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. For the first time in the U.S. market, the Kicks is available with optional AWD, priced at an additional $1,500 on the S and SR trims or $1,650 on the SV trim. This new system could potentially enhance the subcompact SUV's handling capabilities compared to its predecessor. The top-tier SR trim also includes Nissan ProPilot Assist, which, according to Nissan, "reduces driver stress in heavy traffic by automatically controlling the accelerator and brakes to maintain a safe distance from the car in front."
Related: 2025 Rivian R1S review: The ultimate adventure-focused EV
2025 Kicks delivers on customization and minimalist interior designInside, the Kicks adopts a minimalist approach, free from unnecessary distractions. However, minimalism here doesn't mean boring. Nissan aims to add flair with available contrasting dual stitching and color accents around the gear selector. The SR trim features two 12.3-inch screens that create the illusion of a single, flowing display. The mid-level SV trim offers a 7-inch digital gauge cluster paired with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, while the base S trim is equipped with two 7-inch screens. Wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are standard on all trims except the base S.
2025 Nissan Kicks interior.Nissan
Optional features include a Dual Panel Panoramic Moonroof for those serene nighttime drives and a 10-speaker Bose sound system with speakers integrated into the front passenger seat headrests—a feature seemingly inspired by the Mazda Miata. Seat upholstery varies by trim level, with options for cloth, premium cloth, or leatherette, all featuring Nissan's Zero Gravity design, intended to enhance comfort on longer journeys.
2025 Nissan Kicks seats.Nissan
Legroom has improved over the previous generation, offering rear passengers an extra inch of space. Additionally, Nissan highlights the new Kicks' cargo capacity, boasting 30 cubic feet of storage with the rear seats up and 60 cubic feet when they're folded down.
The 2025 Kicks stays affordable among its competitionPricing for the 2025 Kicks starts at $21,830 for the base S trim with FWD. The SR trim starts at $26,180 but can exceed $36,000 with AWD and all available options. These figures make the Kicks a strong contender in its class, offering a lower starting MSRP than rivals like the VW Taos, Mazda CX-30, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Jeep Compass, and Hyundai Kona. However, competitors like the Hyundai Venue and Kia Soul are slightly cheaper, starting at $19,900 and $20,290, respectively.
The year is 1953 and monumental events that would go on to shape our world are coming to pass. The Korean War has ended, Mt. Everest has been summited for the very first time, and Stalin has died. But it's an entirely different kind of event that's flown under the radar and ultimately reshaped the auto industry as we know it.
In mid-1953, Chevrolet introduced the quintessential American sports car, the Corvette. Fast forward 70 years, and the 'Vette is still turning heads and causing a stir. Yet, the modern-day Corvette is a far cry from the inaugural, relatively underpowered models. The modern-day Corvette doesn't just compete with the most powerful sports cars of today; it mops the floor with most of them as it ascends from its rightfully earned supercar status into vaunted hypercar godhood.
2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1.Chevy
There have been plenty of powerful Corvette iterations over the years, from the first V8-powered models and the inaugural ZR1s and Z06s to the modern-day mid-engined eighth-generation 'Vettes. Yet, no factory Corvette in history has raised the bar as high as the all-new 2025 Corvette ZR1, and the race hasn't even been close. But just how did the 2025 Corvette ZR1 transcend its supercar status on its way to becoming a fully-fledged hypercar?
Related: 2025 Rivian R1S range guide: How far an EV crossover will take you on a full charge
The eighth generation's evolution into a mid-engined sports car had plenty to do with it. The C8 Corvette initially started with 490-horsepower LT2 V8s as their base engines, paving the way for 670-horsepower LT6-powered Z06 models along the way. Both are supercar moniker-worthy, indeed, but not even in the ballpark of hypercar-like performance. All this changed overnight when the traditionally most powerful ZR1 models were unveiled.
Powered by a heavily modified version of the flat-plane crank 5.5-liter LS6 V8, the ZR1s squeeze every last drop of performance from GM's latest and greatest small block. Dubbed the LT7, the now-twin-turbocharged powerplant cranks out a hellish 1,064 horsepower and no less than 828 pound-feet of twist in a quest to not only dethrone every preceding Corvette sibling but also send a message to the European hypercar royalty.
2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1 engine.Chevy
Naturally, the heavily modified engine boasts all-new strengthened pistons and connecting rods, together with new cylinder head castings with unique CNC-machined ports and combustion chambers. An entirely new intake system with a secondary port fuel injection ensures smooth fuel delivery. Ultimately, the ZR1 achieves a much lower compression ratio of 9.8:1 compared to the 12.5:1 of conventional models. To ensure the improvements haven't been in vain, GM has also strengthened and retuned the 8-speed automatic transmission.
Despite the impressive performance numbers, another figure will pique track enthusiasts' interest. It's the 1,200 pounds of downforce the new ZR1 is capable of generating if equipped with the optional ZTK package. Heavily reliant on carbon fiber, the ZTK performance package throws in a huge rear wing, protruding front dive planes, a Gurney lip on the hood, larger air ducts, and the largest carbon-ceramic front rotors ever fitted on a 'Vette. Measuring 15.7 inches, they'll be more than capable of providing some much-needed stopping power to a car adept at hitting north of the 215 mph mark on a regular basis and clocking sub-10-second quarter-mile times.
2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1.Chevy
GM has yet to disclose further information on performance and pricing, but both will be hypercar-worthy in their own right. At least the performance will be, as the new ZR1 boasts a better power-to-weight ratio than the likes of a Bugatti Veyron. The expected MSRP of around $150,000 still doesn't encroach on hypercar territory, although it makes the new 2025 ZR1 the most expensive production Corvette ever assembled. It's a poor man's hypercar price, if you will, but more aggressive optional packages and expected insane dealer markups should raise it by a considerable margin.
2025 Chevy Corvette ZR1.Chevy
The 2025 Corvette ZR1 has finally moved the definitive American sports car from a supercar into the hypercar class in more ways than one, changing its status for decades to come. Relative to its peers, the Corvette now sits head and shoulders above the rest without breaking the bank the way other supercars and hypercars do. Relative to its predecessors, however, the new ZR1 is truly a generational upgrade with close to 30 percent more power than the previous record holder and a higher price tag to boot.
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*View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article* As the current generation of Dodge Durango, and particularly its high-output V8 engines, approaches the end (a seeming theme as of late), Dodge has another special edition for fans to snag. This one is the 2025 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Hammerhead, and despite the engine, this special edition is seriously low-key.
It's painted in a color called Night Moves (cue the Seger), which is matched by simple silver 20-inch wheels and a matte black hood that's nearly indistinguishable from the navy blue at a glance. Even the brake calipers are painted black. The only exterior features that really pop are the SRT and Hellcat badges that are finished in a white or light grey to stand out from the dark background.
What gives the SUV its name is the interior, though. The seats are finished in an exclusive Hammerhead Grey leather with "Sepia" embroidered logos. The rest of the interior is as dark as the exterior with forged carbon fiber trim and black chrome trim throughout, the only exception being some silver contrast stitching. It's also loaded with convenience features such as wireless phone mirroring and charging, a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, 19-speaker sound system and a sunroof.
The looks of the Hammerhead may be modest, but its price tag is not. It goes for $115,315 including the $1,595 destination charge. That makes it a tad more expensive than the Silver Bullet special edition revealed about a month ago.
*View the 14 images of this gallery on the original article* Bentley’s lineup is going through a revolution of hybridization, and the Flying Spur is next as the Crewe team just revealed the latest iteration of its four-door sedan. Specifically, we’re looking at the 2025 Bentley Flying Spur Speed, which Bentley is labeling the fourth generation of this model. It’s so confident in the car’s performance, too, that Bentley claims it to be the company’s “first four-door supercar.”
The new powertrain is Bentley’s “Ultra Performance Hybrid” we’ve talked plenty about before. It consists of a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, electric motor and an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. A big 25.9 kilowatt-hour battery pack is claimed to provide up to 47 miles on the optimistic WLTP cycle, so expect far less when put against the EPA test. When you unleash its full power (in Sport mode), the Flying Spur Speed puts out a combined 771 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque. That’s good enough for a 0-60 mph sprint of just 3.3 seconds, a half second quicker than the outgoing W12 model. If you’re angling to drive around in EV mode, Bentley says its top speed is 87 mph thanks to the 187-horsepower electric motor. The battery can be recharged via the engine while driving or when plugged in – the claim is 2.75 hours from empty to full on an 11 kW charger.
The ride quality of the new Flying Spur is improved via new twin-valve dampers that maintain the sporting nature of before but add even more comfort thanks to separate control of the rebound and compression. Its new hybrid system changes the weight balance to be more rear biased with a 48.3:51.7 front-to-rear bias. Plus, a new generation of stability control is claimed to permit a wider range of driving styles without cutting in.
You’ll know it’s the new Flying Spur on the outside thanks to a new grille, front bumper, lights, rear diffuser and wheels. Bentley also notes that most brightware is now finished with a dark tint and also paints more bits in body color (or optionally in carbon fiber). LED puddle lamps in the doors join the party, and as always, the list of colors you can spec the car in is endless.
The Flying Spur’s interior largely looks the same as before, though Bentley notes it’s using new seats that now feature 3D diamond quilting and a new perforation pattern. There’s a new dark chrome specification for interior trim, and the tech enjoys a big upgrade. Bentley says the infotainment offers wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto now alongside over-the-air map updates. You can also use the car’s app to monitor the car’s charge status, remotely park it or begin a cabin pre-conditioning program. Bentley says its “Wellness Seating Specification” is now available for all four seats (auto climate and postural adjustment). A new climate ionization system also comes standard that takes advantage of an improved particulate matter filter.
Further driver assistance systems join, too, including the green traffic light prediction seen in other VW Group vehicles and a driving monitor that displays a projection of the traffic around you in the semi-assisted highway driving mode. Bentley promises further updates as the years go on, too, which is all made possible by a new electric architecture underpinning this generation Flying Spur.
*View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article* Hennessey dropped a bit of a surprise bomb Tuesday by announcing that it will build — and has already sold — a limited number its Venom F5 supercars with gated manual transmissions dubbed the Venom F5-M (the "M" is for manual, if that wasn't obvious). Hennessey said it had always wanted to build an "old school" version of its homebrew performance machine that offered the engagement unique to a manual gearbox. Today, it's here, and as I noted above, already gone.
The limited run should come as no surprise. Hennessey Special Vehicles may have serious funding, but it's still no mainstream production outfit. Only 12 examples of the manual F5 will be produced, and each will ship with a unique livery, making all 12 distinct. The cost of this exclusivity? $2.65 million.
“Driving the Venom F5 is already a full body experience that thrills, inspires, and never gets old," Hennessey said in its announcement, "but, we never say that’s enough, we never stand still. That’s why we’ve dived deeper into the sensation of driving, finding every touchpoint to deliver connection, feedback, sound, and engagement. We believe that the Venom F5-M Roadster will be the most intense, immersive, and extreme driving experience on the planet, and a dozen lucky customers get to join us for the ride!”
In addition to their bespoke treatments, manual variants can also be easily spotted from a distance thanks to their unique tail fin (with an American flag on it, in the case of the example photographed here). If you're close enough to peek inside, the shifter itself is probably a dead giveaway. Hennessey says the cockpit was redesigned to make it a central fixture of the cabin.
Zac Palmer
Zac Palmer
*View the 33 images of this gallery on the original article* Our year with the 2023 Subaru WRX is officially at its end. Well, it wasn’t a full year, but we got pretty close with just a few months remaining (to be clear: the early end was not the car's fault). It was still long enough to come to some real conclusions.
The final mileage tally rings in at 11,551 miles, with many of those being fun miles on various backroads throughout the Midwest. It’s been a blast from the beginning, and we even got to try out some intriguing STI accessories in the latter half of our loan.
Read all Long-Term Subaru WRX Posts HereLove for the new WRX is practically universal amongst the Autoblog staff. The concept isn’t new for this latest generation, but Subaru’s execution makes it our favorite WRX generation in quite some time. Everything starts with that new 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine. Start it up first thing in the morning near a house, and the whole structure begins to buzz. Arcing up the revs is a smooth, buttery sensation, which is not something you expect from a Subaru flat-four but is one of the reasons we love it. Redline comes early at just 6,100 rpm (sad), but you’re going to want to live in the upper ranges to get everything you can from the boxer. It pulls steadily and smoothly all the way to the top without any disappointing torque dip or massive fall-off at the end.
And then there’s the sound. The noise we hear in the cabin’s been a tale of two exhausts. Subaru’s stock exhaust is noisy at certain low rpms, but almost nonexistent in the high end. Meanwhile, the STI exhaust we had installed was just loud all the time. Plainly, you don’t want this exhaust if you foresee lots of highway miles due to incessant droning. But man, is it satisfying when you’re in it. Stab the throttle on a quick heel-toe downshift, and you’re rewarded with a single or multiple crackles and pops. It’s never the same, which makes it all the more fun to listen for. The personality missing from the exhaust previously is finally present, but boy, do you have to work for it.
Working for it is the WRX’s whole mantra, too. Its brakes require a strong pedal press before they do anything. The shifter is notchy and heavy through the gates. And the weightiness trend carries through to the steering, too. That last bit’s especially odd, though, as while there’s a lot of heft to the wheel itself, road feel is severely lacking. It’s a good thing, then, that the super-sticky Dunlop summer tires provide as much grip and stability as they do, as it’s damn tough to run out of grip on the road.
One consistent quibble from the staff throughout the year was simply how stiff the suspension setup is. Poor roads had us bouncing all over the place as it pogoed up and down, which is an especially big problem in Michigan. Subaru doesn’t offer adaptive dampers on our Limited trim (you need the CVT or tS for those), so you’re stuck with a single ride and handling setting. It’s more than stiff enough to support some serious canyon driving, but we don't have many canyons around Detroit, and it unfortunately punishes almost everywhere else.
Fuel economy’s never been a strong suit for the WRX, and it continues to be mildly acceptable in this new generation. The EPA ratings of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined are where we found the Subie landing depending on the sort of driving involved. That said, you can achieve surprisingly good highway fuel economy on long trips. Our best stints saw the WRX return as good as 28-30 mpg. And while high-20s isn’t exactly something to cheer for, we’re plenty happy to see it considering the 272 horsepower and 259 pound-feet of torque it produces.
Thankfully, our long-term Subaru only needed to make one unscheduled dealer stop for a recall. That said, it was a serious one for a front driveshaft assembly that could “crack and break.” We were given the all-clear and sent on our way. Beyond that, we went for the 6,000-mile oil change service, to swap summer and winter tires, and for a screw that happened to find a home in one of the OEM Dunlop tires. Every trip to the local Subie dealer was pleasant and went off without a hitch.
On a less happy note, complaints about the Subaru’s tablet-oriented infotainment system never seemed to dry up. We were hopeful that Subaru finally put together a nice-to-use tech package, but alas, the screen is plagued by lag, input delays and glare from the sun. Even using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is frustrating, as you’re subject to the same slow responses as the native system interface exhibits. The lack of wireless smartphone mirroring is another downside, forcing you to always plug your phone in. Its one saving grace is that not all the controls are stuffed inside the screen. You can adjust the climate temperature with buttons, change the volume or tune the radio with knobs, and there are the customary redundant radio controls on the steering wheel, too. But man, needing to use the touchscreen (and wait for its bootup process) to switch on the heated seats in the dead of winter never stops being frustrating.
At least the seats themselves are stellar, as our Limited trim model’s was upholstered with a nice mix of grippy materials to hold you in alongside well-sculpted bolsters. It sure feels a bit cheap to only make the driver’s seat power (no such luck for the passenger), but the easy adjustment is appreciated. The one negative note we kept coming back to on the seats is just how high you sit in the car. Moving from a Civic Si or GTI will have you feeling like you’re driving an SUV when you hop into the WRX. That vibes with the crossover-like plastic cladding outside the car, but it’s just not the seating position us enthusiasts desire out of a sport compact.
And if you were curious about how we felt about the new WRX's design, you’ll need to come to us individually. There are staunch supporters of the new rally look, and there are others who continue to be disgusted by the acres of black plastic all over the car. Our distaste is strongest around back where its rear chin stretches high up the bumper before we get to the gleaming Solar Orange paint. We sure were glad to have picked this exterior option, though, as it got constant looks and compliments over the course of the year. The gray-painted wheels are a lovely contrast to the orange, and the black-painted spoiler we opted for gives it one last dose of aggression as it flies past you.
Our prediction that a long-term WRX test would be a fun one most definitely came true. The parents on staff managed to get their kids and car seats into the back, but trunk space is undoubtedly limited given the small sedan shape. Maybe a GTI or other hot hatch is the answer if you need more cargo versatility.
The car’s gotten better since we took delivery of our tester, too. Starting for the 2024 model year, Subaru added all the driver assistance systems missing on the 2023 to the fold. Our many highway trips would’ve benefitted from the now-standard adaptive cruise and lane-following. That said, it was also refreshing to drive around a car that didn’t beep at us for getting too close to another lane on occasion, so we’re not that mad about it.
We compared the Limited to the single-year TR that was promptly replaced by the tS for 2025. Of course, the better dampers and Brembos should improve the experience in the tS, but by our account, the regular WRX isn’t drastically inferior to those sportier models. We enjoyed the hell out of the optional CD player. We hooned it like crazy in the winter months on a set of Bridgestone Blizzak tires. And of course, we argued about it nonstop on the Autoblog Podcast.
If you want to see all of our stories going into detail about our long-term WRX, make sure you head here.
*View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article* In 1958, the four Walklett brothers founded Ginetta as a race car maker with the same focus on light weight and super-sharp performance as better-known companies like Ace, Caterham and Lotus. Today, the company makes race and road cars, organizes one-make series' like the Ginetta Challenge run here in the U.S., and sells the GT6 Evo for FIA GT racing around the world. At the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the company displayed its entry to the supercar game, a fair few levels above the 450-horsepower retro Ginetta G10 and modern Ginetta GTR. At the time, the former Akula (in the related gallery below) was projected to make 600 horsepower and 520 pound-feet of torque from a 6.0-liter V8, drape carbon fiber body panels over a carbon moncoque for curb weight of 2,535 pounds and a 49:51 weight balance, be limited to 20 units, and cost about 400,000 Great British Pounds.
Five years on, the production version of the Akula is ready, and almost all of the above numbers have been revised. The carbon monocoque stays, as do the steel roll cage and carbon fiber body panels. Carbon fiber subframes help support a double wishbone suspension with adjustable, pushrod-activated dampers all around; the front and rear roll bars are adjustable as well. The street engine is a billet aluminum block bored out to 6.4 liters divided among eight cylinders, sending 600 horsepower and 494 pound-feet of torque to the back axle through a limited-slip differential. Weight balance is now an ideal 50:50. Getting the 2,623-pound coupe from standstill to 62 miles per hour is said to take 2.9 seconds, the engine not running out of steam until the far side of 180 mph. That's likely achieved with the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, owners who want to ultimate engagement will select the six-speed manual.
Instead of the show car's 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, the retail Akula sits no 20-inch aluminum wheels. The P Zero rubber comes sized 265/35 in front, 305/35 in back. Behind the center-lock wheels, the standard ABS-equipped brake package gets four-piston calipers clamping 14.2-inch rotors at the four corners. An Akula Race Package upgrades to carbon ceramics, and installs a six-point racing harness.
Even though the aero-optimized bodywork is toned down from the Geneva car, there should be no doubt as to what the Akula was made to do. The interior reinforces the point even better than the copious ducting. Ginetta built the seats into the moncoque, making the steering wheel and pedal box electronically adjustable. Buyers will need to swing by the Ginetta offices to have their cars' seats formed to their specific backsides.
However, touring is also a vital part of the brief. There's a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, the iPhone kept ready with a wireless phone charger. The trunk holds nearly 17 cubic feet. And the 26.4-gallon gas tank is claimed to power a range of around 450 miles.
In 2019, Ginetta said it planned to build 20 Akulas in the first year of production. Now, the little firm plans to build just 20 Akulas, period, celebrating the 20-year anniversary of Dr. Lawrence Tomlinson buying the company. Pricing starts at 275,000 Great British Pounds ($362,400 U.S.) , and it's not too late to get a build slot.
Oh, and if you're wondering about the name, akula is Russian for "shark."
In this episode of the Autoblog Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Greg Migliore is joined by Associate Editor Byron Hurd for a heavily electrified discussion. They start with their recent drive opportunities. Both spent some time in a Chevy Blazer EV recently, and Greg compares it to his time behind the wheel of the mechanically identical Honda Prologue. From there, they segue to the Volvo S60 Recharge, which will not return for 2025. Byron compares his recent stint in that to his extensive seat time in Autoblog's former long-term S60 T8. After that, they both touch on some brief time behind the wheel of a crippled example of the refreshed 2025 Volkswagen GLI.
Autoblog Podcast #847[audio mp3="https://s.aolcdn.com/os/ab/_cms/2024/09/06102546/09-06-24-autoblog-E847.mp3"][/audio]
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Rundown* Cars we're driving2024 Volvo S60 Recharge2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV2024 Honda Prologue2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI * NewsHyundai Vision N 74Scout reveal date / look aheadRedesigned Armada
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Outside of modest updates here and there, sometimes the addition of Apple CarPlay, most cars' infotainment systems on the market are going to be the same as they were when they were built. Lots of things change between generations of vehicles, so it's not always feasible. But Volvo is trying something new by making its latest infotainment available to older models of vehicles. In fact, cars built as far back as 2020 will be able to upgrade.
To be more specific, the infotainment system that will be available is the one that's rolling out on the EX30, EX90 and refreshed XC90. We've tried it a few times briefly, and it does offer some notable benefits such as having more shortcut buttons available at all times, reducing the amount of taps and backtracking needed to bounce between functions. We have lamented that some of these newer models are too reliant on the touchscreen, but that will hopefully be less of an issue on older cars that have more information and functionality elsewhere in the vehicle (such as an instrument screen and more physical switchgear).
Volvo will be sending out the updates over the course of next year. They are over-the-air updates. The Volvos that are compatible are those with an Android-based operating system built in 2020 or later. This includes a long list of models including the following: C40, XC40, EX40, EC40, S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, XC60, S90, V90, V90 Cross Country and XC90.
Volvo did not say whether a fee will be associated with the update, so we presume it will be a free update for owners, similar to an operating system update for a cellphone. What we'll be curious to see is how well the new system runs on older hardware. Ideally, it should run basically the same, but we're bracing for the potential of it running a bit slow on older cars. Here's hoping Volvo's software team really optimized the new infotainment for old hardware.
*View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article* If the tumescent front fascia on the fourth-generation BMW X3 didn't convey its inspiration clearly, enough, look at the new crossover in profile: It's a scaled-down XM, the SUV that still points to BMW's future. The new X3's interior? It's a concept car interior headed for Munich streets, as shown by the 2014 BMW Vision Future Luxury Concept unveiled at that year's Beijing Motor Show. The X3's cabin is the closest thing we have to that show car, recalling the concept's minimalism, boomerang motifs, gold accents and lack of buttons. Side note — and we ask this as big fans of the current 7 Series — why couldn't BMW put that concept into production? It had a monumentally gorgeous spiritual successor to the classic E38 right there in its hands ...
Back to the program. The new X3 wraps two kinds of future in a compact crossover package. To that, M Performance Parts would like to offer owners something timeless: The ability to tack extra bits onto a design that doesn't look wholly at ease wearing them. The X3 already offers the factory options of an M Sport Package and an M Sport Package Pro, mind you. The collection of carbon fiber, CFRP and polyurethane exterior M Performance Parts is said to impart a "more elegant and sporty appearance." As a wiser writer once said on these pages, "You've got eyes. You can decide for yourself."
A front splitter can be had for the first time ever on an X3, this one a three-piece unit in high-gloss black. Behind that there are carbon fiber mirror caps and a carbon and aluminum fuel filler cap. The antenna cover comes in carbon fiber reinforced plastic so as not to interfere with signals. The M Performance rear diffuser below is either made of the same material, or buyers can choose a second version in polyurethane that would match the polyurethane spoiler hanging off the end of the roof. The spoiler comes in black as standard, but can be painted to match the X3's factory color.
If those aren't enough, one can complete the fashion show with M Performance side graphics, black model badging, carbon or aluminum door sills and, for the X3 M50 xDrive with the M Performance Package exclusively, CFRP tailpipe finishers with stainless steel inner rings. Interior fit ranges from M Performance floor mats to stainless steel pedal covers and an Alcantara and leather key fob cover.
A quartet of 22-inch light alloy wheels come in Jet Black matte with polished elements, mounted on summer tires. M Performance tire bags with reinforced handles will make these easier to tote during the severe seasons. The other choice is a set of 20-inch wheels in plain Jet Black Matte on all-season tires.
Pricing isn't out yet. But if these are for you, pricing probably doesn't matter.
John Beltz Snyder
John Beltz Snyder
*View the 34 images of this gallery on the original article* You want to talk about saving the manuals? How about saving the convertibles? They are a dying breed, especially those with a back seat. How about one that’s reasonably affordable? Hope you like a Mustang or, for a little while longer, a Mini.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLE 450 Cabriolet would not be one of those reasonably affordable ones, but it does have a back seat. As you’re about to see, it actually has quite a large back seat. And we’ve already shown that it has a surprisingly big trunk, too. This practicality goes a long way toward countering the reason, it could be argued, convertibles have fallen out of favor: They don’t make very good daily drivers, and when fewer Americans have room in their garages or budgets for an extra car, that matters.
Well, as senior editors James Riswick and John Beltz Snyder discovered, in two different car on opposite sides of the country, the CLE Cabriolet can be a daily driver … with kids, no less. They had differing opinions about how good, however.
Here are their thoughts, with Riswick leading it off.
The leather is sun-reflectiveMy test car had a black interior, which seems a bit nuts for a convertible in Southern California. The tan leather in my own convertible can get awfully butt-searing if I park it with the top down, so I can’t imagine what it would be like with black. The CLE has an answer to that, however, as its leather, regardless of color, is coated in a sun-reflective material that Mercedes says reduces the temperature by 50 degrees. A BMW 3 Series was the first convertible I recall having something like this (E93?), so the CLE is certainly not the first. Still appreciated, though, even if I’d personally opt for not black.
**AirCap works … but is noisy**If you count the CLE as a member of the E-Class Cabriolet lineage, this is the third generation to have Mercedes’ AirCap system. It consists of the windshield header trim panel that rises up to reveal a mesh netting below (pretty much what you’d see in a sunroof wind deflector) and power pop-up wind deflector behind the back seat. They only operate together; you can’t use one or another. I can confirm that they do in fact deflect the wind and minimize air movement in the cabin. It’s definitely a bigger deal for those with long hair, however. I didn’t realize *that* much of a difference below 60 mph, and if anything, I found AirCap to actually be a detriment at those lower speeds for a different reason: noise. Air hitting that mesh in the windshield header is a lot louder than the cabin is at the same speeds when not deployed. It makes me wonder what it would be like if you *could* pop up the deflector behind the back seats but not the windshield header.
The back seat is genuinely largeThe CLE replaces both the C- and E-Class Cabriolets, but it’s bigger than both of them. You can really tell in the back seat, which I would venture is more spacious than that of any convertible car (as in, not a Wrangler or Bronco). It’s even bigger than what you’d find in a Bentley Continental or BMW 8 Series, which cost way more than this.
(Note that in the below photo, the driver seat is pushed almost all the way back)
Want proof? A giant child seat fit easilyThe CLE is officially the first convertible my son ever got to ride in. The back seat was wide enough to accommodate our giant Britax Boulevard child seat, and although I needed to scoot the front passenger seat up to give him legroom, there was no shortage of legroom remaining up front. Impressive! Oh, and guess what kind of car is unquestionably the easiest to load your kid into? That’s right, a convertible with the roof down. I started lowering it with the key while approaching, which is delightfully showy, but also a great feature. I’d argue it’s a must for a two-row convertible.
Even better, installing the car seat was surprisingly easy. Reading the manual is an absolute must as it shows you how to pop out the rear head restraint and therefore access the hole needed to pass through the car seat’s rear LATCH anchor strap. Once you know the trick, however, it was significantly easier than installing this same car seat in literally every pickup truck I’ve tested. OK, so again, having the roof down makes a big difference, but unless it’s raining …
'Does this one change color?'Whenever I get a new car, my son inevitably asks, “does this one change color?” What he really means is, “does this one have 64-color ambient lighting like a Mercedes?” Obviously, this one does, and it makes my son one happy little guy. Oh, and you can do with voice control.
“Hey Mercedes, change ambient lighting to purple.”
“She” will often respond with “OK, changing ambient lighting to (insert color)” followed by some pithy comment about your color choice. Pointless but delightful.
Hard hitting take: This is a lovely carThe CLE looks terrific inside and out, with the top up or the top down. It is impeccably refined to drive, and I can confirm after spending an entire morning tearing through the Santa Monica Mountains, that it can be tremendously rewarding to drive. The inline-six engine is a peach, Jerry, a peach. All told, everything about the CLE Convertible feels special. Even though it has only one competitor, barely, its excellence is undeniable. This is one I didn’t want to give back.
OK, take away Mr. Snyder. How’d you fare in Michigan?
Thank goodness it’s a convertible, for the sake of that car seatI originally attempted to install my daughter’s forward-facing Britax Frontier with the top up, and grew incredibly frustrated and sweaty. There’s a reason I didn’t bother when I had the CLE Coupe. Things get easier with the top down, but James is right that consulting the owner’s manual is necessary. I wouldn’t necessarily call the installation easy, though. There were still some curse words hurled (the kids were out of earshot), but after some wrangling, I got it done, and Lola had no complaints about sitting behind me – Riswick didn’t even attempt that in California, the CLE still isn’t big enough for that. I didn’t even have to move my seat forward for her and I’m still 6-feet tall.
The AirCap benefits the rear occupants“This is up … and now down. Up. Down.” After repeated testing, my large son confirmed that the system made a difference in the back seat at highway speeds, but didn’t make much of a difference around town. I didn’t feel much of a difference either way in the front seat. But, yeah, it definitely creates significantly more wind noise when deployed. The front mesh also seems to gather junk like leaves and dead bugs. Gross.
(I can confirm this. Found some bees in there myself. -Riswick)
**The doors are heavy as heck**These long doors are a bit ungainly. Parked on a slight uphill incline, it’s hard to get them open. It requires a lot of might, and you don’t get a lot of leverage from the front seat. Then they slam shut from the force of gravity.
Backseat ingress and egress are a challengeMy large 9-year-old son spent a lot of time in the back of the CLE, and spent an inordinate amount of time and effort getting in and out of it. The hefty doors are a part of the problem. The leather loop you need to pull from the shoulder of the front seat in order to fold it forward is also a hassle. You have to resist the urge to pull it toward you and instead pull it pretty much straight upward, and it required two hands for my son. It wasn’t just him — my wife struggled with it as well, and I couldn’t pull the passenger loop from my spot in the driver’s seat.
And of course, by the time he’d sat down, he then had to get back up, and reach past the front seat (which he’d have to move forward again if he’d already leaned it back) in order to grab the front armrest to close the door.
Then that all had to be done in reverse to get out. He’d struggle with the leather loop, contort his body in order to reach the door handle (which seemed a mile away), only to struggle against the weight of the door to get it open, often requiring multiple tries. It was usually quicker for me just to play doorman for him.
**The stop-start system is a little uncouth**I normally don’t mind it, but with my motion-sickness-prone wife as a passenger, I had to disable stop-start to prevent herky-jerky driving. When a light would turn green, or a gap opened up for me to make a turn, I’d often reach the gas pedal before the engine had reignited. The result was a sharp jolt from a stop rather than the smooth rollout I’d intended. Easy enough: Just press the button under the ignition to turn it off, but by that time, I’d already set her stomach a-churnin’. This is particularly surprising as one of the benefits of the inline-six’s mild-hybrid system is to smooth out auto stop/starts.
But, damn, the driving is smoothThe CLE Cabriolet, just like the Coupe I drove a few months back, feels luxurious, refined and sporty going down the road. The turbocharged, mild-hybrid powertrain gives you buttery and ample acceleration at any speed, all up and down the rev range. Gear swaps are swift and seamless. The chassis glides over the pavement. The CLE exudes the exact sort of attitude and behavior one looks for in a Mercedes.
**The Eco gauge is fun**Flicking through the content you can display in front of you in the instrument panel, I came across this Eco display. It’s a sort of driving coach to help you drive as economically as possible. It’s an image of a ball. When you accelerate, it rolls toward you, as if acted upon by the g forces. Accelerate too hard, and it turns red. Same goes for braking: Do it smoothly, and the ball remains toward the center, but brake too hard, and it rolls away from you and turns red. If you drive smoothly enough without sending the ball rolling too much, you earn stars.“Ohhhhh,” my son said from the back seat. “It’s a game!” That it is, bud, and a fun one at that.
**You can fit a fair amount of cargo with the top down**It just has to fit in around the trunk separator. This took a little bit to figure out, and it started with pushing a mysterious button on the inside of the trunk lid. That flipped a little piece of plastic up and down. It has to be down for you to put the roof down, and if something is in the way, the separator will just bounce back up. I was able to pack a fair about of cargo — a big pool bag full of toys and towels, a sizable cooler bag and a full backpack — rearward of that separator for a run to the pool. Everyone was happy.
This was the family choiceEvery time we left the house, my son asked, “Can we take the Mercedes?” He chose that over our much roomier Hyundai Palisade, the easier-to-get-in VW Jetta GLI and my questionably reliable 1974 Beetle.
My 3-year-old daughter would ask, “Which car are we taking?” Me replying, “The gray one” would elicit smiles and a little happy dance.
My wife asked, “When can we get one of these?”
Despite some of the inconveniences of a smaller vehicle with two doors and a fussy getting-in-the-rear-seat experience, the CLE was what everyone wanted to ride in, and I was happy to oblige.
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We also drive the base VW Jetta Sport with a manual and chat about our long-term Toyota Sienna
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The CT5-V Blackwing is already getting a refresh, and we dive into the first F1 race results
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Driving GMC Sierra, Kia EV6 and Hyundai Kona Electric, plus a dispatch from the Ford Bronco Raptor launch
Plus, we assemble a roundtable to discuss our past couple weeks of driving four different RWD Japanese sports cars
Wheel time in the 2022 Maserati Levante Trofeo, Audi and Porsche diving into F1 and more
Send us an email at Podcast@Autoblog.com, and we'll bee happy to help you choose your next car in our 'Spend My Money' segment, or answer your questions or discuss any automotive topic on the Autoblog Podcast.
Plus the Ford Bronco, turbo-6 Dodge Challenger rumors, future classics and 'American Auto'
Plus a Toyota Camry Hybrid, luggage testing the off-road set and a deep dive into the mailbag
Plus testing the 2022 Audi RS E-Tron GT and admiring the 1971 Lamborghini Countach LP prototype 500