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- Nissan revives the Silvia, Z4 M40i dazzles, Tucson improves
Nissan revives the Silvia, Z4 M40i dazzles, Tucson improves
2024-09-06
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Releases & Reviews
The new Hyundai Tucson brings significant interior upgrades, with a larger, 12.3-inch infotainment screen and a more organized center console. Despite these improvements, the driving dynamics remain largely unchanged from previous models. The Tucson remains a practical compact SUV, with smooth hybrid powertrains and enhanced tech features, but it still lags behind rivals in terms of performance.
The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i with a manual transmission is a standout among BMWâs sports cars. With its classic front-engine, rear-drive layout, it delivers an engaging driving experience, powered by a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine. Though not the most powerful in its segment, its sharp handling and convertible design make it a future classic. It arguably the best-driving BMW since the magnificent M5 CS.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Toyota and BMW are teaming up once again to advance hydrogen fuel cell technology. Their partnership aims to lower production costs and improve the fueling infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles, which have struggled to gain traction. BMWâs first hydrogen-powered model is expected by 2028, with plans to standardize components and build commercial vehicles as part of the collaboration.
Honda posted record sales in August, with 28% of sales coming from hybrid or electric models. The Honda Prologue EV is performing particularly well, with 5,401 units sold in August, outpacing competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5. With strong demand for its hybrid SUVs and trucks, Honda is well-positioned to continue its success.
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Car Culture
Nissan has officially confirmed that the Silvia sports car is making a comeback as the brandâs third sportscar. Early-stage development has begun, with the car expected to feature an electrified powertrain to meet global emissions regulations. This news is a thrill for enthusiasts, though the project still requires significant investment.
BYDâs luxury sub-brand has unleashed the U8, a 1,200-hp electric super-SUV aimed at making a statement. Despite its massive size and weight, the U8 rockets from 0-60 mph in just 3.2 seconds. However, its handling is compromised by its heft, and its brake feel leaves much to be desired. At $153,720 in China, this SUV is as much a status symbol as it is a performance vehicle.
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Miscellaneous
The âLand Aircraft Carrierâ is a six-wheeled electric vehicle that doubles as a launching platform for personal flying vehicles. The futuristic EV features a range-extending ICE, can charge its flying module up to six times, and boasts a range of 621 miles. The air module, an EVTOL drone, is fully autonomous and includes advanced safety features like a parachute deployment system. With trial production starting in 2025, this unique vehicle is priced at $280,000. Click through for pictures.
Toyotaâs big bet on hybrids is paying off as competitors who over-invested in EVs struggle with the segment-wide slowdown. Toyota reports that nearly 48% of its U.S. sales in August were hybrids. They Hybrid versions of popular models like the RAV4, Sienna, and Camry are driving this growth.
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Quick Links
Recent Formula 1 race winner Charles Leclerc rear-ended another driver while behind the wheel of his Ferrari Purosangue in Monte Carlo. Click through for video.
The 2025 Rivian R1S may look the same as the 2024 model, but its under-the-skin updates, including new motors and improved suspension, deliver even better performance and range without sacrificing luxury.
The 2024 Polaris Slingshot R delivers open-air fun with its three-wheeled design, offering thrilling dynamics but limited practicality.
Volkswagenâs Scout Motors will unveil its first rugged electric SUV and truck in October, with production set for 2026 at a new U.S. factory.
The U.S. now has over 192,000 EV charging ports, with 1,000 added weekly, supported by $521 million in federal funding to build more chargers across 29 states.
This unique 1966 Ford Thunderbird, once owned by Carroll Shelby, is up for auction without reserve, featuring Shelby-Cragar wheels and a powerful 428ci V8 engine.
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