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Honda dream garage, Nissan's new man, Bugatti speed secrets
PLUS: BMW's almost-M1, Porsche best car dies, Renault hot hatch,
2024-12-16
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Releases & Reviews
The Honda Civic Hybrid takes top honors for being a practical, fuel-efficient, and stylish daily driver. With a two-motor hybrid system delivering 200 hp (203 PS), 232 lb-ft (315 Nm) of torque, and 49 mpg (5.8 L/100 km), it’s a standout in today’s high-priced market. At around $30,000, it balances affordability and features, setting a new standard for compact cars.
Maserati’s Grecale Trofeo surprises as more than a reskinned Alfa. This luxury SUV boasts a 523 hp (530 PS) twin-turbo V6 and a refined interior with customization options rivaling its competitors. With a dual personality that can function as both a comfortable SUV and driver’s car, the Grecale is positioning itself as a serious contender against the Porsche Macan.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Christian Meunier, Jeep’s former CEO, takes the reins at Nissan America to navigate its turnaround. With a history of revitalizing brands, Meunier plans to focus on profitability and sales growth. Amid dwindling hybrid offerings and financial woes, his leadership will be crucial for Nissan’s future.
Mercedes is set to redefine its compact sedan lineup with the electric CLA, debuting on the new MMA platform. With a 268 hp (271 PS) motor and all-wheel-drive capability, it excels in challenging snowy conditions. This EV promises a blend of innovation and practicality, drawing from Mercedes’ EQXX concept for advanced efficiency and design.
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Car Culture
Bugatti’s record-breaking hypercars are engineering marvels. From aerodynamic tweaks to unique engines, this video explores how models like the Chiron Super Sport push past 300 mph (483 km/h). The insights from Bugatti’s design director reveal how meticulous design enables world-beating performance.
A peek into Peter Cunningham’s private Honda collection showcases rare gems, from pristine first-gen Civics to NSX Type Rs. This Wisconsin-based collection highlights Honda’s evolution, blending nostalgia and engineering marvels in one jaw-dropping display.
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Miscellaneous
MotorTrend highlights the best off-road trucks of 2025, featuring rugged builds like the Chevy Silverado ZR2 and the GMC Hummer EV. With capabilities such as Multimatic DSSV dampers, electronic locking differentials, and 35-inch tires, these vehicles are built for serious terrain. Models like the Ford Raptor add performance flair with up to 720 hp (730 PS), while the Hummer EV combines absurd size with 1,000 hp (1,014 PS) of trail power.
The 2025 Taos gets a comprehensive mid-cycle refresh, featuring a bump to 174 hp (176 PS) and a smoother 8-speed automatic transmission for AWD models. Updated styling includes a light-up rear badge and LED headlights, while the cabin now offers a semi-floating infotainment screen and upgraded materials. Despite its higher price, the Taos delivers solid handling, improved efficiency, and class-leading tech for a subcompact SUV.
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Quick Links
This mid-engine masterpiece pairs a bespoke 4.0-liter flat-six with a manual transmission, outshining even some 911 models with its engaging driving dynamics.
With 507 hp (514 PS) and rear-drive e-motors, this retro-inspired EV redefines the hot hatch segment, delivering 0–62 mph in 3.5 seconds.
A race-proven classic with a storied Le Mans history could fetch $10–14 million, showcasing Ferrari’s timeless allure.
A Colorado dealer’s subsidized deal offers a Fiat 500e for less than $1,700 over 27 months, making this compact EV a steal.
The potential rollback of crash reporting rules could shield Tesla from scrutiny over its driver-assist systems’ involvement in accidents.
These industry giants aim to enhance safety with AI-driven systems that predict tire grip and optimize braking in real-time.
The luxury French EV combines elegant design with a 350-hp (355 PS) drivetrain, a 466-mile (750 km) range, and a drag coefficient of 0.24, highlighting DS’s flair for automotive artistry.
BMW chose profitability over passion, axing a mid-engine hybrid supercar to launch the high-margin XM SUV.
Equipped with new Michelin Cup 2 tires, the Carrera GT improved its lap time by 16 seconds, a testament to tire technology’s impact on performance.
The Corvette Z06 edges out the AMG GT 63 in Edmunds’ U-Drag showdown, showcasing its braking prowess and supercar pedigree.
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