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Palisade redesign, Z life, Land Cruiser vs the world
PLUS: Coolest hot hatch, Gordon Murray V12s, Miata 35th edition
2024-12-09
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Releases & Reviews
Hyundai has unveiled the next-gen Palisade, featuring bold new styling, a lavish interior with double 12.3-inch displays, and increased dimensions. The redesign emphasizes luxury and family-friendly utility, retaining physical controls for ease of use. Expected in late 2025, this flagship SUV aims to solidify Hyundai’s position in the premium SUV segment.
This off-road showdown pits the redesigned Toyota Land Cruiser against rugged icons like the Land Rover Defender. Tested in Welsh wilderness, the Land Cruiser proved durable and efficient, excelling in water fording and rugged climbs. While each competitor has unique strengths, the Land Cruiser’s balance of comfort and capability shines through.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Dodge dealers are seeing massive profits from the Charger Daytona EV, with base margins exceeding $3,200 before markups. As one of the most anticipated American EVs, some dealers predict markups of $10,000 or more. Dodge’s pricing strategy reflects the vehicle’s appeal as a high-performance, eco-conscious muscle car.
The average age of U.S. vehicles has hit a record 13.6 years, driven by high inflation and fewer new car purchases. While repair and service companies could benefit, many consumers are cutting corners, impacting sales of higher-quality parts. The trend highlights a challenging balance between cost savings and long-term vehicle reliability.
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Car Culture
The Nissan Z balances heritage and modernity, with the NISMO variant bringing sharper handling and minor power gains. Despite its dynamic appeal, issues like interior creaks and hefty pricing at $65,000-$68,000 limit its mainstream appeal. Competition from rivals like the Toyota Supra and Corvette adds to its uphill battle.
Mercedes-AMG’s PureSpeed blends modern tech with classic motorsport flair. This roofless SL63-based marvel features a 577-hp (585 PS) V8, advanced aerodynamics, and a structural F1-style halo. Limited to just 250 units, it celebrates over a century of Mercedes racing heritage.
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Miscellaneous
The Acura MDX and Honda Pilot cater to different crowds, with the MDX offering premium touches like massaging seats and a quieter cabin, while the Pilot prioritizes utility and affordability. Despite similar dimensions and platforms, the MDX justifies its higher price with better materials and more refined tech.
Volvo’s fully electric EX90 combines luxury and practicality with three-row seating and an impressive 300-mile range (483 km). Its standout features include a clever headlight mechanism hidden within running lights and a minimalist, leather-free interior. Starting at $81,000, this 400-hp (406 PS) EV challenges rivals like the Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S while offering cutting-edge tech and upscale Scandinavian design.
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Quick Links
Mazda is honoring the Miata’s 35th birthday with a special edition featuring Artisan Red paint, tan leather interior, and commemorative emblems; prices start at $30,515.
Gordon Murray Automotive’s T.50s, with its 12,000 rpm V-12, dazzles on a rainy Brands Hatch track, showcasing its ferocity with flame-spitting downshifts.
In this EV pickup showdown, Rivian’s agility and luxury edge out GMC’s range and hauling capabilities, highlighting two distinct approaches to high-end electrified trucks.
A tribute to Lewis Hamilton, this 1,063-horsepower G-Wagon boasts a 3.5-second sprint to 62 mph, carbon fiber accents, and exclusive features like an F1-style steering wheel.
Dodge’s new Charger grows significantly to accommodate wider tires and an electrified drivetrain, drawing inspiration from the iconic 1968 model.
Stellantis is recalling Ram 2500-5500 models from 2017-2018 to replace faulty brake control units that may compromise ABS and stability systems.
Honda recalls 2023-2025 Pilots and Passports due to faulty fuel filler installation, addressing potential leaks during collisions.
The Cadillac Sollei concept reimagines ultra-luxury convertibles with a spacious design, bold styling, and a focus on comfort, hinting at a possible production future.
The 700-hp Praga Bohema, blending GT3 car dynamics with street legality, reaches its first customers after years of meticulous development.
The one-off Sbarro Super Eight melds Ferrari 308 DNA with 1980s creativity, featuring a 3.0L V-8 and a striking fiberglass body.
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