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- Audi Q5 redesigned, Aston Martin Vanquish returns, Corvette vs Mustang Dark Horse
Audi Q5 redesigned, Aston Martin Vanquish returns, Corvette vs Mustang Dark Horse
2024-09-03
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Releases & Reviews
In this all-American muscle car face-off, the mid-engine Chevy C8 Corvette goes head-to-head with the front-engine Ford Mustang Dark Horse. While the Corvette’s 495-hp V8 and mid-engine layout give it the edge in handling and acceleration, the Mustang Dark Horse counters with a 500-hp V8 and classic muscle car appeal. Both offer thrilling performance, but their different approaches cater to distinct driving styles.
The bestselling Audi Q5 and SQ5 receive a design refresh for 2025 while retaining their familiar internal combustion engines. The Q5 now features a 268-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine paired with a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the SQ5 offers a 362-hp turbocharged V6. The SUV’s updated looks and modernized interior, including a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, are likely to drive strong interest when it goes on sale in mid-2025.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Volkswagen is facing intense competition from Chinese EV makers, leading to discussions about closing its German factories—a first in the company’s 87-year history. In addition to a €10 billion cost-cutting plan, VW is also attempting to restructure labor relations to adapt to the changing market. These measures highlight the mounting pressures on VW as it struggles to maintain its market share in China and safeguard its operations in Germany.
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish returns with a 5.2-liter V12 engine producing 824 horsepower, blending luxury with F1-inspired design. Its front-mid engine layout, 214 mph top speed, and limited production will make it desirable for those who can afford its likely $500,000 price tag. Click through for pictures.
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Car Culture
The 2025 Mini Cooper S combines nostalgic charm with modern features, making it a fun but quirky choice in today’s market. With its 201-hp turbo-four engine and go-kart-like handling, it offers a spirited driving experience. However, its infotainment system and overall design feels outdated and frustrating for those accustomed to more conventional setups. While it’s a practical starter performance car, it may leave many drivers longing for something more refined.
The 2024 BMW 540i xDrive impresses with its silky-smooth inline-six engine, delivering 375 horsepower and 37 mpg on the highway. However, when compared side by side with the Mercedes-Benz E450, the 540i reveals some drawbacks, including a slightly confining cabin and aloof handling. It’s a luxurious, efficient cruiser, but it’s less sporty than previous 5-Series models.
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Miscellaneous
The 2026 Mercedes GLS receives a mild facelift focusing on tech upgrades, including new star-graphic taillights and a pillar-to-pillar display inside. While the design updates are subtle, the GLS maintains its luxury appeal with a revised grille and updated bumper, staying competitive in the premium SUV segment. Click through for pictures.
The redesigned Dodge Durango is expected to go into production in 2026, featuring the STLA Large platform, which also underpins the Charger and Charger Daytona. The new Durango may offer both internal combustion and electric powertrains, with a two-row Chrysler crossover also set to launch around the same time. The current Durango will reportedly remain in production until 2027, despite earlier expectations of a 2025 end date.
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Quick Links
A new, full-length trailer for Jeremy Clarkson, James May & Richard Hammond’s last ride together racked up more than a million views just hours after being posted.
Ford’s King Ranch trim, named after one of the largest ranches in the world, offers luxurious and rugged features across several Ford models, blending upscale materials with serious towing and off-road capabilities.
The Jevons paradox suggests that increased efficiency from self-driving cars could paradoxically lead to more driving, potentially negating the expected reductions in emissions and traffic accidents.
Stellantis has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining all 14 of its car brands, despite previous speculation that some might be sold or discontinued due to financial concerns.
Memphis, Detroit, and Albuquerque are among the most dangerous U.S. cities for drivers, with Memphis leading with nearly 26 fatal accidents per 100,000 residents, while distracted driving, speeding, and alcohol use are cited as major contributing factors.
Chrysler is reducing the number of trim levels for the 2025 Pacifica minivan from five to three, with streamlined features and standardizations between the gas and plug-in hybrid models.
Practical tips to a Car Talk reader annoyed by a neighbor’s car horn honking before remote start.
A historic covered bridge in Maine collapsed after a Ford F-750, likely weighing over 26,000 pounds, attempted to cross despite a posted 3-ton weight limit, sending the truck and its gravel cargo into the river below.
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