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- Subaru BRZ gets better, halo sedan race, Lexus GX550 review mixed
Subaru BRZ gets better, halo sedan race, Lexus GX550 review mixed
2024-09-20
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Releases & Reviews
Audi’s 2025 Q7 receives a design refresh, tech upgrades, and additional features to keep it competitive in the luxury SUV market. Standard LED matrix headlights and new color options modernize the exterior, while third-party app integration enhances in-car entertainment. Despite keeping the same powertrains, the Q7 stands out with its sleek design and upgraded luxury touches.
Subaru has improved the already-beloved BRZ tS, offering better handling and more refinement for 2024. With retuned suspension and chassis improvements, it maintains its affordable price point, making it one of the best value sports cars for enthusiasts. While the engine remains the same, the driving experience is significantly more engaging than the base model, particularly on twisty roads.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Rivian’s 2025 R1S Quad Motor impresses with blistering acceleration and handling, thanks to its four-motor setup. Capable of reaching 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds, it outpaces some supercars while still offering SUV practicality. However, its efficiency lags, and the tight third-row seats are less than ideal for larger families.
Mazda is facing a class action lawsuit due to a defect in its SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engines, affecting vehicles like the Mazda6 and CX-5. The lawsuit claims Mazda failed to disclose a coolant leakage issue, which can cause engine overheating and potential failure. The case alleges Mazda has long been aware of the issue through internal research and customer complaints.
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Car Culture
In a thrilling drag race, the Tesla Model 3 Performance takes on BMW’s M3 CS and Mercedes-AMG’s C63 S E Performance. The Model 3’s electric acceleration is quick, but the BMW M3 wins with a 2.8-second 0-60 mph sprint. Despite the complexity of the AMG’s hybrid setup, it lags behind due to its weight. This race highlights how EVs are reshaping performance expectations.
Mansory has transformed the rugged Ineos Grenadier into an ultra-luxury off-roader with carbon fiber body panels, widebody wheel arches, and 20 LED lights. With a remapped engine producing 345 horsepower, the vehicle is visually stunning but less practical for actual off-road use. The addition of two center-console fridges ensures comfort, even when tackling rough terrain.
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Miscellaneous
The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Hatchback brings practicality and efficiency, offering 25 cubic feet of cargo space and up to 50 mpg in city driving. With a lively 200-hp powertrain, it’s poised to challenge the Toyota Prius in the hybrid market, combining performance with impressive fuel efficiency.
The 2024 Lexus GX550 Luxury+ blends luxury with off-road capability. Powered by a twin-turbo V6, it accelerates to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds while offering features like a 14-inch touchscreen and Mark Levinson sound system. However, its heavy build limits on-road agility, making it feel less dynamic than smaller luxury SUVs.
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Quick Links
The 500-meter (1,640 ft) Senna Tower, set to become the world’s tallest apartment building in Brazil, celebrates F1 legend Ayrton Senna with luxury homes and a museum honoring his legacy.
Cruise is slowly reintroducing its robotaxi service in the Bay Area with a fleet of manually driven mapping vehicles, aiming to restart autonomous tests after last year’s serious crash.
Radar detector pioneer Michael Valentine, who founded Valentine Research Inc. and saved drivers from countless speeding tickets, has passed away at the age of 74.
William Durant, who founded General Motors and transformed the auto industry, ended his life running a bowling alley after losing his fortune.
Redwood Materials will partner with BMW to recycle end-of-life EV batteries, marking a major step toward a closed-loop supply chain for BMW’s U.S.-made electric vehicles.
The EU and China are working to avoid new tariffs on Chinese-made EVs, with discussions on setting a minimum price to ease trade tensions.
Gordon Murray Group has received £11 million (~$13.6 million) to develop an ultra-lightweight EV platform, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions and improve EV efficiency.
Mercedes has released a limited-edition AMG GT 63 Pro, decked out in Petronas green and F1-inspired details, making it possibly the priciest F1 memorabilia yet.
The upcoming Alpine A390 electric crossover, with fastback styling similar to the Polestar 2, will debut at the Paris auto show before production starts in 2025.
A detailer gives a full cleaning and polish to three Koenigseggs, each holding a world speed record, with meticulous attention to preserving their high-performance finishes.
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