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- Expedition Tremor, new Skyline GT-R parts, Q3 Winners/ Losers
Expedition Tremor, new Skyline GT-R parts, Q3 Winners/ Losers
2024-10-04
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Releases & Reviews
The 2024 Mercedes SL 63 AMG has faced mixed reviews, but after spending time behind the wheel, it reveals itself as a luxurious, high-performance vehicle for those looking for a balance of sportiness and comfort. Weighing over two tons, the SL 63 isn’t as nimble as its predecessors but delivers a satisfying driving experience with 577 horsepower. Priced at $170K, it’s hard to justify over similarly priced competitors, but steep depreciation might make it a better deal used in a couple of years.
The 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor stands out with a Raptor-inspired design, 440 horsepower, and serious off-road capabilities. Ford offers a unique tailgate with added features for tailgaters, plus a new tech-filled interior with a large screen and BlueCruise. With a 7,000-pound towing capacity, this SUV is ready for adventure, though it faces stiff competition from Chevy.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Q3 2024 saw impressive gains for the Chevrolet Trax, up 129.5%, and the Ford F-150 Lightning, with a 104% increase in sales. On the other hand, Ram’s sales dropped 24%, and Nissan continued its struggles, with the Nissan Leaf being a rare bright spot, thanks to attractive lease deals.
EVgo has secured a conditional $1.05 billion loan from the U.S. Department of Energy, aimed at expanding its fast-charging network with 7,500 new stalls. This move positions EVgo to compete directly with Tesla’s Supercharger network.
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Car Culture
In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Nismo is reproducing classic parts for the R32 Skyline GT-R, including performance upgrades and accessories. Fans of the iconic car can get factory-endorsed parts, though prices are steep—an intake manifold costs $1,625, while the titanium strut tower bar goes for $1,160. These rare parts offer enthusiasts a chance to restore their GT-Rs with authentic components.
Toyota is rolling out significant updates for 2025, including a redesigned Camry with hybrid-only powertrains and upgraded tech. The GR Corolla now offers an eight-speed automatic transmission alongside its manual, while the Prius adds a Nightshade Edition with dark accents. These updates reflect Toyota’s commitment to keeping its lineup relevant, from efficient hybrids to fun hot hatches.
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Miscellaneous
Nissan’s reputation in the U.S. continues to decline due to poor product perception and an often-frustrating dealership experience. While Nissan offers vehicles across all segments, consumers frequently opt for rival brands. Their focus on low-market buyers, combined with a lack of standout models, keeps Nissan stuck in a cycle of heavy discounting and negative brand perception.
Toyota has invested an additional $500 million in Joby Aviation, an electric air taxi startup, bringing its total investment to $894 million. Joby recently completed its third aircraft and is progressing through certification stages. The goal is to commercialize air taxis for urban routes by the end of the decade, despite regulatory hurdles.
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Quick Links
Hyundai refused a $10,000 warranty claim for a Canadian Elantra N owner, citing evidence from the car’s ECU that the engine failure was caused by excessive revving beyond design limits.
A Rivian R1T electric truck survived being submerged and swept 100 yards by floodwaters caused by Hurricane Helene, continuing to function thanks to the company’s water-resistant design.
Cadillac unveiled the Opulent Velocity, a futuristic concept that merges luxury and extreme performance, showcasing the brand’s vision for an all-electric hypercar.
A change in EU safety rules unintentionally banned new cars equipped with CD players, leaving only pre-2024 models with the feature available for sale.
A Los Angeles towing company documented the intense effort to extinguish and recover an overturned truck carrying lithium-ion batteries, which burned for days after a crash.
A North Dakota teenager’s SUV sped uncontrollably to 113 mph, forcing him to crash into a state trooper’s car to avoid a potentially fatal accident.
Cadillac’s Lyriq EV is now the brand’s second best-seller after the Escalade, contributing to GM’s 9.5% market share of the U.S. EV segment in Q3 2024.
New sightings of the C8 Corvette Zora prototype, including one in Colorado, fuel speculation about its hybrid powertrain and track-focused design, though production details remain elusive.
Tesla’s Cybertruck faces its fifth recall in a year, this time to fix a rearview camera issue where the screen can remain blank for up to eight seconds when shifting into reverse.
In October 2024, Ford is offering a $385/month lease deal and 3.9% APR financing for 60 months on the 2024 Mustang, as part of nationwide promotions.
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