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BMW crisis, impressive Audi Q4, Civic Type R vs Integra Type S
2024-09-11
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Releases & Reviews
Bentley’s 2025 Flying Spur is the automaker’s most powerful sedan yet, featuring a 771-hp twin-turbo V8 hybrid engine. The sedan reaches 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds, thanks to a 19% horsepower increase over the previous model. With a range of 515 miles, it’s designed for both power and luxury, making it the leader in Bentley’s lineup. Click through for pictures.
Audi’s 2024 Q4 55 e-tron is an upgraded electric SUV that improves range, power, and charging times while keeping the same price as its predecessor. It features a 258-mile range, faster charging at 175 kW, and a 335-hp engine, up from 295 hp. Despite the improvements, the ride can get rough on uneven surfaces, particularly in the Sportback version.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
BMW has lowered its profit outlook for 2024 due to brake issues with Continental-supplied components and slowing demand in China. More than 1.5 million cars are affected, including 320,000 that are undelivered. The company expects to incur significant warranty costs and has seen its shares drop nearly 12%.
Aurora is preparing to launch its first driverless semi-trucks on a Texas route before the end of 2024. The company has spent years developing the technology, which will be crucial for the future of long-haul trucking. Driverless semis could reduce accidents and increase efficiency, though concerns about safety and the elimination of trucking jobs remain.
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Car Culture
In this hot hatch comparison, the Honda Civic Type R comes out on top, offering a more refined driving experience than the Acura Integra Type S. While the Integra boasts extra features and a slightly softer ride, the Civic Type R excels with sharper handling and an enthusiast-friendly design.
Goodwood’s 2024 Reunion saw a collection of stunning vintage cars, including Adrian Newey’s 1965 Ford GT40 and a show-stopping 1963 Ford Galaxie 500 Lightweight. The festival blends historic racing with immersive period recreation, making it a must-visit for car lovers and history buffs alike.
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Miscellaneous
Volkswagen has canceled long-standing job guarantees at six German plants, potentially leading to layoffs starting in mid-2025. The decision is part of a cost-cutting drive aimed at competing with more affordable Asian automakers, but it has sparked resistance from labor unions.
Hennessey has revealed the Venom F5-M Roadster, the most powerful manual transmission car in the world. With 1,817 horsepower and a six-speed manual transmission, the $2.65 million hypercar will be limited to just 12 units, all of which are already sold. Click through for pictures.
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Quick Links
The hybrid-powered Corvette Zora was seen testing at the Nürburgring, featuring a twin-turbo V8 and a hybrid system expected to push it beyond 1,064 horsepower. Click through for pictures.
MG is opening a Mexican plant capable of producing 100,000 vehicles annually, opening the door for a return to the U.S. market.
Honda will upgrade its Ohio factories to produce gas, hybrid, and electric cars all on one assembly line, starting in 2025.
Genesis aims high with the 2025 G90, introducing an e-supercharger model priced over $100,000, packed with advanced tech and luxury features.
The EU plans to reduce proposed tariffs on Tesla to 7.8% from 9%, while maintaining higher rates for other Chinese EV makers like BYD and Geely.
F1 design legend Adrian Newey will join Aston Martin as Managing Technical Partner in 2026 for ~$40 million/ year over 5 years, turning down offers from Ferrari and others.
Spy shots reveal Audi’s upcoming 2026 RS 6 Avant E-Tron, expected to deliver over 700 horsepower with an 800-volt system and all-wheel-drive. Click through for pictures.
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