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New Charger driven!, ultimate drag race, M3 teaser
PLUS: affordable exotics, Hyundai's new man, E53 AMG
2024-12-13
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Releases & Reviews
Dodge’s all-electric 2025 Charger Scat Pack delivers 670 hp (679 PS) and 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds. Its retro-modern styling nods to muscle car heritage, but software quirks hinder performance in track mode, revealing a vehicle that’s fun but needs refinement.
This drag race extravaganza pits budget-friendly speedsters like the Hyundai Elantra N, Subaru WRX, and Ford Mustang EcoBoost against each other. The Hyundai dominates the front-wheel-drive group with a blistering 4.9-second 0-60, while the Mustang’s 315-hp EcoBoost proves American muscle thrives, finishing fastest overall.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Mercedes-AMG’s new electric SUV prototype, boasting over 1,000 hp from axial flux motors, marks a bold leap in EV performance. Designed on the AMG.EA platform, the SUV aims to outshine competitors with cutting-edge battery tech offering a 40% boost in energy density, signaling AMG’s commitment to high-performance electrification.
The 2025 Ford Mustang GTD has become the first American production car to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife in under seven minutes, clocking an official time of 6:57.685. Powered by an 815-hp (826 PS) V8, this $325,000 supercar outperformed many European legends but still aims for an even quicker lap in future attempts, showcasing Ford’s ambition to redefine American performance.
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Car Culture
From the retro-modern Volkswagen ID. Buzz to the rugged Toyota Tacoma 4x4 Manual, MotorTrend’s editors share their favorite “cool cars” currently on sale. The list celebrates diversity, including everything from modern icons to off-road legends.
Tesla’s share of the U.S. EV market has dipped below 50% as competitors gain ground. While it remains dominant, with 48.8% market share, Tesla is losing the unique edge it once held, similar to how Toyota’s Prius became “just another hybrid” after its golden era.
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Miscellaneous
The 2025 Ram RHO trades the TRX’s 702-hp (712 PS) V8 for a 540-hp (547 PS) twin-turbo six-cylinder, offering a lighter, more agile off-roader. Starting at $71,000—$20K less than the outgoing TRX—it outclasses the Ford Raptor in towing and acceleration, with a towing capacity of 8,400 lb (~3,810 kg) and a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds.
BMW teases the first electric M3, set for a 2027 debut. Built on the Neue Klasse platform, the sleek EV will feature advanced aerodynamics, reduced overhangs, and power output expected to rival its gas-powered counterpart, signaling BMW’s evolution in high-performance sedans.
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Quick Links
Exotic cars like the Alfa Romeo 4C and BMW i8 have entered surprisingly affordable price ranges, with some available for as little as $30,000.
The refreshed C-Class sports redesigned grilles, updated headlight graphics, and mild-hybrid engine options, with performance trims delivering up to 671 HP (680 PS).
This restomod features modern touches like a carbon fiber body, 300 HP (304 PS) engine, and limited production of just 150 units.
With 604 HP (612 PS) and 42 miles (~68 km) of EV range, the E53 Hybrid balances luxury with performance but still feels tame compared to AMG’s traditional brute force.
Hyundai’s CEO takes dual leadership of Genesis, aiming to elevate the luxury brand’s position against competitors like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
Kia’s mid-size truck, the Tasman, will launch globally but skips the U.S. due to intense competition in the American pickup market.
Packing 626 HP (635 PS) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, the $180K Range Rover Sport SV excels on both the track and scenic countryside roads.
Brabus transforms the AMG GT 63 with 740 HP (751 PS), 664 lb-ft (900 Nm) of torque, carbon fiber upgrades, and an aggressive design, blending speed with high style.
The classic Viper dominates a quarter-mile showdown, clocking a 12.7-second run compared to the Challenger’s 13.1 seconds.
Built on a military chassis, the Sherpa XLE combines off-road toughness with luxury amenities like a queen-sized bed and solar-powered systems. Its 330 HP (335 PS) engine delivers 860 lb-ft (1,165 Nm) of torque, enabling an 800-mile (~1,287 km) range.
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