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Mazda RX-Vision, Minivan showdown, Acura > Germans?

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2024-10-22

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Releases & Reviews

The 2025 Acura MDX receives significant updates to keep it competitive. Changes include refreshed exterior details, like darker headlights and revised bumpers, along with interior refinements such as improved sound insulation and new seat fabrics. Tech upgrades, including a redesigned infotainment system and enhanced driver assistance features, aim to elevate the MDX’s comfort and usability, making it a solid alternative to pricier German rivals.

The 2025 Volkswagen ID Buzz, an all-electric minivan, challenges the gas-powered stalwarts of the segment. Though expensive at $61,545, it offers unique features like a panoramic roof and impressive tech, while delivering 234 miles of range. In this comparison, it goes head-to-head with the more established Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, and Kia Carnival, showing that minivans are still relevant and innovating.

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Technology, Market Data & Analysis

Hands-free driving technology is rapidly evolving, with seven major players offering systems for 2024. From BMW’s Highway Assistant to GM’s Super Cruise, each system balances convenience with the need for driver attention. BMW’s unique “Active Lane Change with eye activation” stands out, allowing drivers to confirm a lane change by simply glancing in the direction of the lane.

Mazda is teasing a bold future with its latest concepts, including the RX-Vision and Miata-inspired Iconic SP. While these futuristic designs harken back to Mazda’s sporty roots, the powertrain choices set them apart, with the Iconic SP boasting a two-rotor EV system. Though these models remain concepts for now, they highlight Mazda’s unique approach to electrification and driving pleasure.

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Car Culture

The 2025 Audi RS6 Avant continues to be a favorite among car enthusiasts, combining the practicality of a wagon with the performance of a supercar. With 621 horsepower and a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, this beast delivers speed and power in an aggressively styled package. It’s not just fast—it’s a luxurious, tech-filled family hauler for those who demand performance and space.

Jay Leno features a beautifully restored 1970 MGB GT, blending classic style with modern engineering. Equipped with a 4.8L V8 engine producing 375 horsepower, this restomod delivers a driving experience comparable to high-performance sports cars. Thoughtful touches, like widened fenders and upgraded suspension, make this custom build as practical as it is thrilling.

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Miscellaneous

The 2024 Honda Ridgeline, though comfortable and capable, is overdue for a major update. With rivals offering more powerful engines and better off-road capabilities, the Ridgeline’s aging tech and lack of oomph leave it struggling to stand out in the competitive mid-size truck segment. Starting at $41,545, it’s solid for light-duty tasks, but competitors like the Ford Ranger and Chevy Colorado offer more punch at similar price points.

The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance combines brutal power with AMG’s signature character, delivering 831 hp and 1,032 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid monster goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.56 seconds, placing it just behind the Tesla Model S Plaid and Lucid Air Sapphire in terms of speed. While its handling impresses, the ride quality is rough, reminding drivers that this four-door isn’t meant for daily comfort.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 offers a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter engine with upgraded aerodynamics and lightweight materials, while the Touring version adds optional rear seats for added practicality.

Facing declining EV sales, Ford is offering dealers up to $22,500 to stock 2024 F-150 Lightnings to boost sales and help manage inventory.

Hyundai is recalling nearly 1,600 Nexo hydrogen fuel cell SUVs over concerns that a pressure relief device could break, causing hydrogen leaks and a potential fire hazard.

The updated Tesla Model 3 Performance now accelerates significantly faster than its predecessor, with improvements in speed from 100 mph to 150 mph, closing the gap with much more expensive sports cars.

Ford has slashed the price of the 2025 Mustang Mach-E by up to $4,000, while also adding tech upgrades like a standard heat pump and the latest BlueCruise hands-free system.

A biopic about Bugatti founder Ettore Bugatti is set to start filming in 2025, continuing a trend of automotive-themed films following the success of Ferrari and Lamborghini biopics.

MotorTrend’s latest off-road review of the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 reveals that while its large size helps with cargo, it struggles on narrower trails compared to smaller trucks like the Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro.

With 416 horsepower and a $66,000 starting price, the Mercedes-AMG GLC43 offers impressive performance in a compact SUV package, making it a more accessible alternative to the GLC63.

Jeremy Clarkson reflects on his recent heart scare, revealing that one of his arteries was completely blocked and another was close, leading to an emergency procedure to avoid a life-threatening heart attack.

An attempted insurance fraud crash in New York backfired when a dash cam caught the scam unfolding, leading to a failed staged accident.

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