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Hyundai's design future, Ferrari SF90 XX, Japanese Escalade?

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2024-11-01

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Releases & Reviews

The 2025 Infiniti QX80, powered by a 450-hp twin-turbo V6, takes aim at the Cadillac Escalade with a luxurious design and high-end features. Standout amenities include ambient lighting, advanced air suspension, and premium materials inspired by private jets. While it lacks a V8, it delivers a refined ride and bold styling with distinctive ā€œpiano keyā€ headlights and ā€œbamboo forestā€ grille.

Ferrariā€™s $995,000 SF90 XX Spider packs a 1,016-hp hybrid powertrain, combining a twin-turbo V8 with three electric motors. Despite its 2.1-second sprint to 60 mph and 1,168 pounds of downforce, this track-ready supercar remains street-legal, making it Ferrariā€™s first XX model for the road. An enormous fixed rear wing and aero vents enhance stability, while subtle features like comfortable carbon seats and hybrid modes make it versatile enough for everyday drives.

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Technology, Market Data & Analysis

Hyundaiā€™s Initium concept previews its hydrogen future with a 404-mile range, ā€œArt of Steelā€ design, and high safety features. The SUV features aerodynamically optimized 21-inch wheels and a dual-function cap for hydrogen refueling and vehicle-to-load (V2L) power capability. Hyundai aims for a 2025 production model, potentially replacing the Nexo.

Volkswagen launches VW Flex, a flexible subscription model bundling maintenance, insurance, and roadside assistance in a single payment, beginning in Atlanta. With month-to-month options starting at $599, the service targets those needing short-term access to vehicles, offering models like the Tiguan and Atlas without credit checks or lease terms, although the high cost may deter long-term users.

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Car Culture

The 2024 SEMA show promises exciting reveals, from Fordā€™s 700-hp supercharged F-150 to Dodgeā€™s EV-modified Plymouth GTX. Mopar brings its A-game with rugged Ram 1500 and 2500 concepts, while Toyota unveils open-top variants of the Land Cruiser and 4Runner. SEMA continues to be the ultimate showcase for car enthusiasts and industry insiders alike.

Spy photos reveal the 2026 Subaru Outback, which takes on a boxier, more SUV-like shape, diverging from its traditional wagon design. The new Outback features split headlights, trapezoidal wheel arches, and a taller profile. Expected updates include a hybrid powertrain and a more SUV-focused design, keeping up with Subaruā€™s rugged brand image.

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Miscellaneous

The 2025 Kia Telluride and Chevrolet Traverse continue to battle in the midsize SUV category, with the Tellurideā€™s smooth V6 engine and spacious, upscale cabin contrasting with the Traverseā€™s updated turbocharged 328-hp 4-cylinder engine and hands-free Super Cruise. The Traverse also boasts a massive 17.7-inch infotainment screen and rugged Z71 trim, aimed at adventure-ready buyers.

Stellantis is feeling the pinch, with Q3 revenues down 27% and shipments off by 20%. High inventories in the U.S. and slow North American sales contribute to a challenging year. Despite ongoing efforts to adjust pricing and improve dealer incentives, the company forecasts a tough year ahead with hopes for a rebound in 2025.

The 2025 Audi RS3 impresses with record-breaking lap times and distinctive five-cylinder engine, adding a torque-splitting rear differential for agile handling.

UK police, with Thai authorities, located 35 luxury cars stolen and shipped to Thailand eight years ago, including rare models like a Lamborghini Huracan Spyder.

Fordā€™s electric F-150 Lightning plant will shut down for seven weeks from November 15, a move linked to profitability issues amid industry pricing pressures.

Audi will close its Brussels plant in February, affecting 3,000 jobs, after failing to secure an investor to repurpose the facility.

Toyotaā€™s global production fell by 8% in September, with declines in U.S. and China markets attributed to airbag issues and competitive pressures from EVs.

Ferrari reports that 90% of all its cars remain on the road, a testament to durability supported by its robust pre-owned certification program.

The Japanese government mandated extensive reforms at Toyota following intentional certification misconduct across several models.

BYD reported a record 24% revenue increase, surpassing Tesla in Q3 revenue, largely driven by Chinaā€™s trade-in incentives for EVs and strong plug-in hybrid sales.

Toyota is reimagining the classic 4Runner with a convertible, two-door TRD Surf Concept inspired by the 1984 model, set to debut at SEMA 2024.

The highly anticipated series debuts on November 29th.

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