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- Armada brings it, Kia K4 kicks, annoying new beeping
Armada brings it, Kia K4 kicks, annoying new beeping
PLUS: GM's weird patent, the Goldilocks truck, Lamborghini changes plans

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2024-12-17
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Releases & Reviews
Kiaâs 2025 K4 brings style and tech to the compact sedan segment, with a surprisingly sharp CVT and optional turbocharged 1.6L engine delivering 190 hp (193 PS). The K4 balances comfort and playful handling, proving budget-friendly commuters can still be engaging behind the wheel.
Nissanâs 2025 Armada sheds its outdated V8 for a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 pushing 425 hp (431 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. The refreshed full-size SUV impresses with composed handling, a smooth nine-speed transmission, and tech-forward touches like a 14.3-inch display and segment-first Invisible Hood View. Itâs poised to challenge its three-row rivals for real.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
A new U.S. regulation will mandate rear seat belt alarms in all passenger vehicles, adding another layer of safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates this change will save hundreds of lives annually by addressing the high fatality rates among unbuckled rear passengers.
Mercedes-Benz is redefining electric vans with its modular VAN.EA platform, designed for both luxury people movers and premium commercial use. Expect sleek âVIP shuttlesâ alongside more practical offerings. A first concept will debut in Spring 2025, targeting elite travelers with futuristic tech and opulence.
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Car Culture
Aston Martinâs Valhalla is a 1,064-hp (1,078 PS) hybrid monster that balances extreme performance with surprising usability. Powered by a revised AMG-sourced twin-turbo V8 and three electric motors, it sprints to 62 mph in 2.5 seconds. With a $850,000 price tag, the Valhalla is half the cost of the Valkyrie while offering next-level engineering and aerodynamics.
After six months and 3,000 miles, owning a McLaren 650S comes with eye-watering costs and unique quirks. Routine servicing runs over $1,200, while repairs like suspension accumulators and lithium batteries can quickly add up. Despite its pricey upkeep, the 650Sâs carbon tub, thrilling performance, and design details make it a rewarding supercar to ownâespecially if you know how to dodge dealer markups.
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Miscellaneous
The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid blends practicality and charm with exceptional efficiency, achieving up to 56 mpg (23.8 km/l) in real-world driving. Its smooth, responsive hybrid powertrain outshines the Civic Si while retaining industry-leading build quality and spacious interiors. Itâs a rare small car that feels premium without gimmicks, making it Motor1âs pick for best car of 2024.
Dirk MĂźller walks viewers through his record breaking, sub-7-minute NĂźrburgring lap in the Ford Mustang GTD. This road-going race car harnesses its V8 power and cutting-edge aerodynamics to tackle one of the worldâs toughest tracks, delivering a masterclass in speed and control.
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Quick Links
A Ferrari 12Cilindri press car, valued at over $450,000, suffered significant damage on rain-soaked roads during a test eventâraising questions about driver responsibility and repairs.
Auto insurance rates in the U.S. have risen by 51% in three years, driven by soaring repair costs and advanced vehicle tech.
Audi plans to shut its Brussels plant in February 2025, signaling the likely end of production for the Q8 e-tron amid slowing EV demand.
Lexus has addressed off-road concerns by raising the GX 550âs ground clearance to 9.8 inches, enhancing its Overtrail trimsâ trail capabilities.
Lamborghini has pushed back its first EV to 2029, prioritizing hybrids for now while competitors like Porsche advance their electrification strategies.
The 2024 Ford Ranger improves its appeal with new powertrains, tech upgrades, and a well-balanced size, while the off-road-ready Raptor joins the lineup.
Mazda plans to stick with internal combustion engines alongside hybrids, betting on U.S. demand for affordable and reliable cars while working on improved EV battery tech for the future.
The final gas-only Alfa Giulia Quadrifoglio stands as a swan song for Alfaâs driving dynamics, but its limited tech and performance shortcomings leave it trailing behind rivals like the BMW M3.
GMâs new patent explores technology to project holographic images directly into passengersâ eyes, potentially replacing in-car screens with immersive visuals.
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