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Rivian almost perfect, 2026 RAV4, Porsche 718 Spyder battle
2024-10-08
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Releases & Reviews
Rivian’s 2025 R1S Adventure Dual Max impresses with its 665 hp dual-motor setup and an impressive real-world range of 341 miles. Don’t worry that it sits below two more expensive trims. It boasts excellent off-road capability, handling tough terrains with ease, and accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. While lacking launch control, it still delivers high performance and comfort, solidifying its position as arguably the best SUV on that market.
The Porsche 911 Dakar takes the iconic sports car off the beaten path. With over 6 inches of ground clearance and a reinforced suspension, it’s built to handle rough terrains, including sand dunes and snow. Powered by a 3.0L twin-turbo flat-6 engine producing 470 horsepower, the Dakar blends off-road prowess with high-speed thrills, hitting 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds, even with all-terrain tires.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Toyota’s 2026 RAV4 is shifting to a hybrid-only lineup. Featuring updated tech and more futuristic styling, it’s expected to drop the combustion-only engine and improve battery range, potentially exceeding the current RAV4 Prime’s 42 miles of electric driving. With a focus on maintaining its lead in the compact SUV market, this model promises improved efficiency and a tech-heavy interior upgrade. Refer a friend with your personalized link below and get access to Today in Car’s Future Cars List, including this and dozens of other upcoming cars.
Chevy’s 2024 Silverado ZR2 with the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine offers surprising fuel efficiency, averaging 18.8 mpg over 16,000 miles and exceeding 25 mpg on highway runs. While built for off-roading, this diesel half-ton truck proves that even rugged pickups can achieve respectable fuel economy without sacrificing capability.
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Car Culture
Chris Stowell set a new Cannonball Run record with a time of 27 hours and 16 minutes, beating the previous record by just under 10 minutes. Driving a modified 2015 BMW 535 Diesel, Stowell averaged 105 mph across the U.S. with no major police stops, aided by auxiliary fuel tanks and GPS systems to minimize downtime.
This head-to-head-to-head comparison of the Porsche 718 Spyder, Spyder RS, and DeMan 4.5L Spyder reveals the strengths of each in a canyon road showdown. The stock 718 Spyder excels in daily usability, while the Spyder RS, with its GT3 engine, delivers track-focused thrills. However, the DeMan 4.5L Spyder offers unmatched power with 600 horsepower, turning it into the ultimate California canyon carver.
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Miscellaneous
The 2025 Mercedes G 550 remains as rugged as ever with its military roots, but now it features a mild-hybrid inline-six engine delivering 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds. Despite its outdated design and hefty 5,534 lb weight, it combines charm and off-road prowess, with added modern tech like an integrated starter generator. It’s both terrible to drive and magnificent in its purpose.
Kia’s 2025 Carnival Hybrid offers a massive 57% boost in fuel efficiency, with 33 mpg combined, compared to the non-hybrid V6. The hybrid setup produces 242 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, maintaining strong acceleration while enhancing city driving economy by 89%. With enhanced SUV-like styling and hybrid technology, it addresses one of the Carnival’s former weaknesses: fuel consumption.
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Quick Links
The 2024 Urus SE comes with a plug-in hybrid powertrain delivering 789 hp, allowing this 5520-pound SUV to hit 62 mph in 3.4 seconds while flaunting classic Lamborghini performance.
Chevy has expanded its Silverado EV lineup with the more affordable LT trim starting at $75,195, offering 408 miles of range and eligibility for a $7,500 federal tax credit.
YouTuber Jack Doherty livestreamed while crashing his McLaren in the rain, later continuing the broadcast even while receiving medical attention.
The U.S. Department of Justice has declared Fisker’s plan to pass recall repair costs to customers illegal amidst its ongoing bankruptcy and recalls.
Audi’s upcoming RS 5 Avant plug-in hybrid was seen testing at Nürburgring, hinting at a powerful V-6 hybrid setup that could rival the AMG C 63 S.
Jeep has teased the 2026 Compass, which will debut in Europe with both hybrid and electric options before arriving in the U.S. in 2026.
Ford’s electric Puma Gen-E will debut in November with 230 miles of range, marking the brand’s latest EV offering in Europe.
Fisker’s headquarters were abandoned in chaos, leaving behind hazardous waste and vehicles, causing cleanup challenges amidst its bankruptcy proceedings.
Aston Martin is offering a pricey $144,000 color-shifting paint option for the Valour, aimed at supercar enthusiasts who favor bold, unique designs. Click through for pictures.
Sure it’s a monstrosity, but credit the guy for at least not being boring.
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