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Hyundai Santa Fe brilliant, M3 to keep ICE, Lexus off-road
2024-10-11
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Releases & Reviews
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe blends luxury and practicality, offering space for seven and a tech-packed interior. Priced between mainstream and premium competitors, it boasts a plug-in hybrid version and impressive features such as adaptive cruise control. Although it may not have a powerful engine, its handling, tech, and comfort give it a unique edge.
The 2024 BMW i5 M60 xDrive impresses with 593 horsepower and rapid acceleration, but its handling doesnât quite live up to BMWâs âUltimate Driving Machineâ reputation. Despite a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds, the carâs weight dampens its performance in dynamic driving situations. Still, its comfort and range make it a compelling choice for luxury EV buyers.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
BMW enthusiasts can rejoice â the next-generation M3 will retain its gas-powered S58 inline-six engine. Set to comply with upcoming Euro emissions regulations, this move ensures that the M3 remains a combustion-powered icon in BMWâs lineup for at least one more generation.
Mercedes-Benz EVs have struggled, with sales of the EQB, EQE, and EQS falling 42% in Q3 2024 compared to last year. Despite strong SUV sales, the luxury EV lineup continues to underperform, prompting Mercedes to rethink its EV strategy, including scrapping a planned large EV platform. This is a significant setback for the brand.
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Car Culture
Fordâs Bronco gets a retro makeover with the Free Wheeling package, reminiscent of the colorful 1970s F-series trucks. This version comes with vibrant red, orange, and yellow stripes, as well as retro-style steel wheels and marine-grade vinyl seats. Available in early 2025, this package is sure to appeal to nostalgic off-road enthusiasts.
As the Nissan GT-R heads towards retirement, the last model is still available in Japan, where enthusiasts can experience the powerful 600-hp Nismo Special Edition on the famous Hakone Turnpike. With its hand-built twin-turbo V6 and signature handling, the GT-R remains a symbol of Japanese performance engineering.
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Miscellaneous
Ferrariâs latest V12, the 12 Cilindri, may be the last naturally aspirated V12 from the iconic brand. This model features 830 horsepower, and, as a tribute to the 1950s and â60s grand tourers, a striking retro-inspired design. With its cab-back layout, active aerodynamics, and a booming V12 engine, this could be a final farewell to Ferrariâs V12 legacy.
Lexus has introduced the 2025 LX 700h Overtrail edition, which features a waterproof hybrid engine designed to handle up to 27.56 inches of water. Equipped with a V6 twin-turbo system and external power supply capabilities, it is ready for both off-road adventures and emergencies. The model will begin a phased rollout later this year.
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Quick Links
The new Ranger receives a tech upgrade, new engine options including a turbo V6, and improved off-road capabilities, but itâs now only available as a full crew cab with a shorter bed.
To support EV drivers evacuating from Hurricane Milton, Florida deployed up to 10 temporary Level 3 chargers along key routes, offering a 50 kW charge to reduce stress on the infrastructure.
While the 2024 Elantra Hybrid offers great tech and efficiency at 50 mpg, its rivals like the Prius and Civic Hybrid outshine it in performance and refinement.
The new Tacoma stands alone as the last manual-transmission pickup, offering off-road-focused trims and a turbocharged engine for die-hard enthusiasts.
Dodge is teasing a retro-inspired build for the 2024 SEMA show, possibly showcasing an aftermarket battery-electric powertrain for classic muscle cars.
BMWâs Skytop roadster, powered by a 625-hp V8 and capable of 0-62 mph in 3.3 seconds, sold out all 50 units even before most people knew it existed.
If you need to exit a car lease early, options include determining if your car has equity, lease swaps, or taking advantage of pull-ahead programs offered by dealerships.
A rare Nissan R32 GT-R, valued at over $250,000, was stolen from Nissan Australiaâs heritage collection, prompting an ongoing investigation.
Tesla showcased 20 Cybercabs at the âWe, Robotâ event, where Elon said the autonomous cars will go into production in 2026, though the company has a history of missing similar production timelines by years.
Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota dominate 2024 sales, with models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Civic ranking high on the list, while surprises like the Nissan Rogue shake things up.
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