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- '26 RAV4 rumors, Vanquish superb, Ranger Raptor showdown
'26 RAV4 rumors, Vanquish superb, Ranger Raptor showdown
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2024-10-29
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Releases & Reviews
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish, with a 5.2-liter V-12 engine delivering 823 horsepower, is a fusion of luxury and extreme performance. Set against the Italian hills, the Vanquish showed off its refined handling and lightning speed. Despite its polish and enhanced stability, some purists might miss the raw thrill of the prior DBS Superleggera’s unpredictability, but Aston’s balance between sophistication and power shines through.
The 2025 Ford Ranger Raptor, with its twin-turbo V6 and 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers a thrilling drive for urban and off-road environments. Its aggressive Raptor-specific styling and nimble suspension make it a unique mix of power and playfulness in city streets and on rugged paths, offering a balance not seen in the F-150 or Bronco Raptors.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Volkswagen’s Scout Motors has sparked dealer controversy by announcing a direct-to-consumer sales model for its Traveler and Terra models. This move eliminates dealer markups, promising pricing transparency. However, dealer associations argue that bypassing dealerships will create challenges, echoing the industry’s broader struggle with direct-sales models pioneered by Tesla.
Historic moment for Volkswagen: Automaker plans to close ‘at least’ 3 German plants and cut thousands of jobs (3 minute read)
Volkswagen’s decision to shutter three German plants and lay off thousands is historic for the automaker, driven by reduced European demand and rising competition. The closures highlight VW’s need to cut costs amidst declining market share, though labor unions warn of looming strikes. This restructuring signals a tough transition period as Volkswagen grapples with maintaining global competitiveness.
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Car Culture
Porsche’s says it will reintroduce combustion options in future EV models, driven by stagnant Taycan sales, marking a shift from its EV-first strategy. Models like the 718 and the K1 SUV, initially planned as fully electric, may now see hybrid options. Porsche’s pivot underscores the challenge of meeting customer demand for traditional engines amidst rising hybrid interest.
In an off-road test across the Catskills, the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison emerged as the most capable, tackling rugged terrain effortlessly. Toyota’s Trailhunter impressed with tech-driven stability, while the Ranger Raptor’s 405-hp engine shone on-road, blending trail prowess with sport-truck handling. Each truck has strengths, but the Bison leads for hardcore adventurers.
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Miscellaneous
Toyota’s 2026 RAV4 is set to feature an all-hybrid lineup, refining its appeal in a competitive market. The RAV4’s update likely incorporates boxier styling cues from the Tacoma. Expected to start in the low $30,000 range, this evolution aligns with Toyota’s shift towards hybrid powertrains, maintaining affordability for its best-selling SUV.
The 2025 Audi RS3 keeps its hallmark five-cylinder engine unchanged but refines agility through software upgrades, a torque-vectoring rear differential, and new tire options. The tweaks enhance cornering, making this refreshed model more stable and track-ready without an increase in horsepower. Audi has struck a balance, delivering refined handling while retaining the visceral excitement of its performance sedan.
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Quick Links
With the discontinuation of both models, Dodge and Chevy fans have limited options, with only 3,361 Challengers and 98 Camaros left in U.S. dealer inventory.
Bestop is introducing the eTop, a $5,000 power-retractable soft top for Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler models, which can be raised or lowered in seconds with the touch of a button.
Porsche has announced that a non-pluggable hybrid version of the 911 Turbo will debut next year, featuring the same hybrid technology found in the recent 911 GTS models.
Costco has installed its first branded EV fast chargers in Washington state, each capable of 200 kW and featuring battery backup to optimize electricity costs and availability during power outages.
Fiat’s new 600e Abarth, available in a 278-hp “Scorpionissima” edition, sports an enhanced battery cooling system and performance upgrades, making it the most powerful Abarth road car.
The BMW i5 eDrive40 offers a refined electric driving experience with a luxurious interior and decent range, though it lacks the sporty edge that enthusiasts expect from BMW.
Waymo has expanded its robotaxi service to offer over 100,000 rides per week, marking a tenfold increase from last year, and now includes freeway operations in San Francisco and Phoenix.
Facing a global EV price war, Ford lowered its profit forecast, highlighting struggles with rising costs, an inventory surplus, and increased incentives as it navigates a fiercely competitive market.
City Hands Out 12,000+ Tickets in 10 Days After Installing School-Zone Speed Cameras (2 minute read)
Albany, New York, issued nearly 13,000 tickets in two weeks with its new school-zone speed cameras, generating over $600,000 in fines, most of which goes to the camera vendor.
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