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- Mercedes 'Ring king, Prologue pleases, Sporty Subarus spurned
Mercedes 'Ring king, Prologue pleases, Sporty Subarus spurned
2024-10-03
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Releases & Reviews
The 2024 Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid offers a luxurious, tech-forward cabin that impresses with a 48-inch display and BlueCruise semi-autonomous driving technology. Powered by a 300-hp turbocharged I-4 hybrid system, it delivers strong acceleration, a 600-mile range, and great fuel efficiency. Though the ride is smooth, some tire noise and low-speed braking quirks slightly detract from the overall experience.
Honda’s 2024 Prologue EV, built on GM’s Ultium platform, is impressively comfortable, spacious, and refined. Despite sharing much with the Chevrolet Blazer EV, the Prologue stands out with its excellent ride quality and serene cabin. It’s a solid new entry in the electric crossover market, though its performance and steering could be sharper.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
LG Chem’s breakthrough “Safety Reinforced Layer” could revolutionize EV safety, preventing battery fires by isolating the most reactive components when overheating occurs. This thin, fuse-like layer can disrupt the electrical flow in dangerous conditions, drastically reducing fire risk. Early tests are promising, with zero fires in conventional lithium batteries during impact tests. Large-scale testing is expected by 2025.
Subaru’s BRZ and WRX models are seeing steep sales declines in 2024, down over 30%. While the Toyota GR86 has grown its market share, the BRZ is lagging behind, and the WRX is similarly struggling. Enthusiasts may still love these cars, but higher interest rates and changing consumer preferences toward crossovers are taking a toll.
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Car Culture
The Mercedes-AMG One hypercar shattered its own Nürburgring lap record, completing the circuit in 6 minutes and 29 seconds. Powered by a 1,049-hp hybrid system, the car takes its cues from Formula 1 technology. With perfect track conditions, DTM driver Maro Engel shaved six seconds off his previous best, cementing the AMG One’s place in the hypercar hall of fame.
The 2024 Ford Ranger has been reengineered to be a true contender in the mid-size truck segment, with a vastly improved interior and chassis. The familiar 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine delivers solid performance, and the upcoming 315-hp V6 promises even more power. With new suspension upgrades and a more refined ride, the Ranger finally competes head-to-head with rivals like the Toyota Tacoma.
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Miscellaneous
Bentley’s 782-hp Continental GT Speed is redefining what a grand tourer can do. Equipped with four-wheel steering, electronic damping, and a 208-mph top speed, it confidently handles the tightest Alpine passes while retaining its luxurious ride. With added hybrid tech and a V8 engine, the GT Speed balances performance and comfort for long-distance drives.
Chrysler is planning to revolutionize the minivan market with the 2030 Pacifica, which could feature Level 4 autonomy and a reimagined Stow ‘N Go seating system. As the brand’s sole current model, the Pacifica will play a crucial role in Chrysler’s future lineup. Expect to see all-electric options built on Stellantis’ STLA platform, offering advanced tech like wireless charging and rapid battery replenishment.
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Quick Links
Basketball legend Michael Jordan commissioned a one-of-a-kind $2 million Pininfarina Battista Targa, adding to his impressive collection of cars.
Tesla’s Q3 deliveries missed expectations, causing a 6% drop in shares and raising concerns about achieving growth targets despite incentives and price cuts.
GM’s overall sales dropped 2.2% in Q3, but electric vehicle sales surged 60%, showing the company’s growing momentum in the EV market.
Stellantis saw a sharp 19.8% drop in Q3 U.S. sales, led by major declines in its Chrysler and Dodge brands, marking continued struggles for the automaker.
A looming strike by 45,000 dockworkers threatens to halt auto imports along the U.S. East Coast, with potential major disruptions to the global supply chain.
The BMW XM has become the brand’s worst-selling vehicle, with Q3 sales down 30.7%, trailing even niche models like the Z4 roadster.
Toyota is pushing back U.S. EV production to 2026 due to sluggish sales and design adjustments, marking another delay in the company’s electrification plans.
Ford’s Q3 U.S. sales were flat, with gains in F-Series and Maverick pickups offset by affordability concerns and weaker performance in luxury segments.
Ferrari’s new V12 supercar is called the “12 Cilindri,” and Top Gear gives a pronunciation guide for fans eager to get the name just right.
Spy shots reveal a refreshed Rolls-Royce Ghost for 2026 with a new front end and vertical taillight elements, though no changes are expected for its V12 engine.
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