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- M5 wagon vs RS6, Autobahn’s uncertain future, new Genesis GV80 shines
M5 wagon vs RS6, Autobahn’s uncertain future, new Genesis GV80 shines
2024-08-27
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Releases & Reviews
The 2025 Genesis GV80 receives subtle but meaningful updates, including a redesigned interior with a massive 27.0-inch OLED screen and wireless Apple CarPlay. Despite slight performance decreases, it remains a luxury standout with its Bentley-inspired aesthetics and improved soundproofing, all at a competitive price compared to rivals like the BMW X5 and Porsche Cayenne.
The BMW M5 Touring brings the fight to the Audi RS6 Avant, as both offer luxury and performance in a practical wagon format. The M5 boasts 727 hp thanks to a hybrid setup, while the RS6 delivers 630 hp with its classic V8. With slight differences in size and price, buyers face a tough decision between these high-powered family haulers.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
J.D. Power’s 2024 U.S. Tech Experience Index reveals that while AI-based features like smart climate control are popular, other tech such as gesture controls and passenger screens fall flat. Genesis leads in innovation for premium brands, while Hyundai tops mass market brands. The study highlights the importance of automakers aligning tech strategies with customer needs to avoid costly missteps.
Tesla’s aggressive price cuts are fueling a surge in used EV sales, with a 70% increase in the first half of 2024. The average price of a used EV has dropped below $30,000, making them more accessible than ever. This trend is boosting foot traffic at dealerships like CarMax, signaling growing interest in pre-owned electric vehicles.
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Car Culture
Germany’s autobahn, famous for its lack of speed limits, faces an uncertain future as the country shifts to electric vehicles. While EVs excel in many areas, sustained high-speed driving drastically reduces range, undermining the autobahn’s appeal. Political pressure for speed limits and environmental concerns further threaten this iconic roadway’s unrestricted nature.
Monterey Car Week saw a decline in classic car sales, with total sales dropping relative to 2023. Younger buyers, particularly Gen Xers and Millennials, are favoring cars from the 1980s to 2000s over the traditional 1950s and 60s classics, signaling a shift in collector tastes and a challenging market for older models. Click-through for the top 10 sales of the show.
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Miscellaneous
Canada has implemented a 100% tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles, mirroring U.S. policies aimed at countering China’s subsidies. This tariff, coupled with additional tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum, could impact Tesla’s supply chain, as the company currently imports EVs from its Shanghai factory into Canada.
Ford is shifting its electrification strategy, cutting EV spending by 40% and focusing more on hybrids. As part of this pivot, Ford plans to release a new affordable electric midsize pickup by 2027, developed by a secretive California-based skunkworks team. This move aligns with Ford’s strategy to dominate the truck and fleet markets while delaying other electric vehicle launches.
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Quick Links
The ownership heritage and fact that every possible option was ticked makes this SLR particularly desirable at a time when the model has found increasing popularity among collectors. Kudos to MJ for putting real miles on it too.
A set of Bugatti Chiron headlights listed on eBay costs a staggering $164,000 - comparable to the price of a new, well-equipped Porsche 911.
Chevy’s 2025 Traverse brings back the High Country trim while dropping the LS trim, raising the entry-level price with the LT now being the base model.
A study shows that the Toyota RAV4 Icon FWD leads the pack, traveling over 73 miles after the fuel light comes on.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350e PHEV offers up to 54 miles of electric-only range, with prices starting at $61,050.
A fire at Rivian’s Illinois plant damaged several electric vehicles, but the assembly plant was not impacted.
Rob “The Rabbit” Pitts, a star of Netflix’s Tex Mex Motors, has passed away at age 45, leading to an outpouring of tributes.
The 2025 Bronco Sport now offers the Sasquatch off-road package and tech upgrades, making it the most capable yet.
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