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- Nissan going safari, Lincoln Nautilus stands out, BMW shake-up
Nissan going safari, Lincoln Nautilus stands out, BMW shake-up
2024-09-16
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Releases & Reviews
The 2024 Porsche 911 S/T celebrates 60 years of the iconic 911 with a limited run of 1,963 units. Powered by the GT3 RS engine, this lightweight model features magnesium wheels, carbon fiber panels, and a special manual transmission. At $231,600, it’s a refined yet costly homage to the brand’s racing heritage, but with less aggressive styling than the GT3 RS.
The redesigned 2024 Lincoln Nautilus brings a mix of luxury and tech to the midsize SUV market. Sporting a 13.2-inch infotainment screen, plush interior, and standard all-wheel drive, it blends comfort with advanced features like Lincoln’s ActiveGlide hands-free driving system, making it a standout in its segment.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Kia’s upcoming 2026 PV5 electric van is set to take on competitors like the VW ID.Buzz and Ford E-Transit. Designed for both passenger and commercial use, the PV5 will offer modular configurations, advanced connectivity, and impressive cargo space. Built on Kia’s Electric Complete Chassis Platform, the van will provide features like Vehicle-to-Grid compatibility and autonomous driving capabilities.
The upcoming BMW X5, expected in 2027, will introduce electric powertrains alongside combustion and hybrid options. Drawing design inspiration from the Neue Klasse concept, it will feature modern elements like a thinner kidney grille and sleek headlights. The all-electric iX5 variant is anticipated to offer power similar to the BMW i5, with the next-gen model priced around $70,000 to $100,000.
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Car Culture
Nissan’s “Z Warrior” trademark hints at an off-road-focused variant of the Z sports car, likely featuring exterior and suspension modifications for rugged driving. This seems like a smart business move given the strong customer demand for the segment. For drivers, a more budget-friendly alternative to the Porsche 911 Dakar and Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato only sounds like a good thing.
BMW is undergoing a major design team overhaul, with Domagoj Dukec moving to Rolls-Royce and Polestar’s Maximilian Missoni taking charge of BMW’s mid-class and luxury cars. This shift could mark the end of BMW’s controversial large kidney grilles, with the new team expected to deliver more refined designs as seen in the Neue Klasse concepts.
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Miscellaneous
The Lotus Elise, despite its modest 190 horsepower and lightweight design, offers a thrilling driving experience with its unassisted steering and impeccable chassis. This hand-built British sports car stands out in the market, offering pure driving joy at a price that reflects its rarity, especially as Lotus has stopped shipping these cars to North America.
The 2025 Volkswagen Taos refresh tackles the biggest complaint about the previous model: a subpar transmission. Now with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, the AWD Taos also gets a power boost to 174 horsepower. Other updates include a revised grille, LED headlights, and additional driver assistance features, positioning the Taos to better compete in the subcompact SUV market.
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Quick Links
Lando Norris test-drove a fully functioning LEGO McLaren P1 made of 342,000 pieces at Silverstone, marking the first time a LEGO-built car completed a lap of a racetrack.
Ford confirms it will continue making V8 manual Mustangs as long as demand exists, despite growing shifts to electric and inline-six engines in the industry.
Rudy’s Performance Parts faces $10 million in fines after being caught manufacturing and selling emissions defeat devices that violate the Clean Air Act.
The 2024 Porsche Macan EV has an EPA-rated range of 308 miles, with its more powerful Turbo version offering 288 miles.
Car culture is being overshadowed by Instagram’s focus on wealth and status, with social media platforms prioritizing luxury cars over the passion for driving.
Chad McQueen, actor and racer, passed away from organ failure, continuing the McQueen legacy in motorsports before retiring after a major crash in 2006.
Automotive spy photographer Brian Williams discusses chasing down cars automakers don’t want you to see, and how the business side of the job works.
The refreshed 2025 Honda Civic hatchback offers a new hybrid powertrain that boosts fuel efficiency and increases the vehicle’s power compared to non-hybrid versions.
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