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- Nissan-Honda merger?!, Valkyrie ride, Prelude details confirmed
Nissan-Honda merger?!, Valkyrie ride, Prelude details confirmed
PLUS: fastest Audi's ever, billionaire's junkyard, Armada vs LX600
2024-12-18
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Releases & Reviews
Honda’s iconic Prelude is making a hybrid-electric comeback in 2025, featuring a 2.0L hybrid system with 200 hp (203 PS). The model introduces Honda’s S+ Shift for enhanced driving dynamics and immersive engine sounds via an Active Sound System. Spy shots confirm the coupe retains its athletic stance, setting high expectations among enthusiasts.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade gets a design overhaul with Range Rover-inspired looks and a premium cabin. Offering V6 and hybrid options, the Palisade boasts a 330 hp (335 PS) hybrid model with an impressive 634-mile (1,020 km) range. North American specs are subject to change, but may include turbocharged powertrains to rival competitors like the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Grand Highlander.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Facing stiff competition from Chinese EV makers and Tesla, Nissan and Honda may merge, creating a powerhouse in Japan’s auto industry. With Mitsubishi possibly joining the union, the merger would streamline EV production and boost profitability for all three brands.
Old franchise laws block automakers from selling directly to consumers, maintaining dealerships as a crucial part of the auto ecosystem. Tesla’s direct-sales success sparks debate, but dealerships argue their importance for local economies and state tax revenue. The fight continues.
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Car Culture
This video celebrates the rare BMW 325i Touring, a station wagon never sold in the U.S. Leno and Cammisa dive into the car’s history, from its German origins to its unique features like manual transmission and sport suspension. A must-watch for BMW fans.
With 1,160 hp (1,176 PS) from a hybrid V12 and radical aerodynamics, the Aston Martin Valkyrie is one of the most extreme hypercars ever. Limited to 150 coupes and 85 convertibles, this $4.5M engineering marvel reaches 220 mph (354 km/h) with unparalleled precision.
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Miscellaneous
Audi’s Q6 E-Tron offers 422 hp (428 PS) and 307 miles (494 km) of range, with a high-tech interior boasting a 14.5-inch command center and AR head-up display. The SQ6 ups performance with 483 hp (490 PS) and a 4.1-second 0-60 mph sprint but sacrifices range. Both models highlight Audi’s move toward cutting-edge EVs.
Combining luxury, off-road prowess, and value, the Lexus GX takes the crown as Motor1’s best SUV of 2024. Its 349 hp (354 PS) twin-turbo V6 powers through adventures, while an upscale, button-heavy interior offers ease and comfort. Starting at $65,285, it outshines pricier rivals.
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Quick Links
The redesigned Armada boasts a twin-turbo V6 with 425 HP (431 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque, with new tech like biometric sensors and adaptive air suspension, challenging luxury rivals at a lower price.
Lamborghini’s Esperienza Neve program in Inner Mongolia lets customers push their cars’ limits on frozen lakes, showcasing the versatility of models like the 1,001 HP (1,015 PS) Revuelto and the Urus Performante, alongside luxurious hospitality.
Responding to demand, Jeep has reintroduced an 8-speed automatic transmission option for the Wrangler’s 285 HP (289 PS), 3.6-liter V-6 engine, priced at $4,500, alongside its manual counterpart.
Honda Prelude Prototype First Drives Reveal Paddle Shifters, Civic Interior, Fake Sounds (5 minute read)
Honda’s new Prelude showcases a hybrid powertrain with simulated gear shifts and fake engine sounds, delivering an engaging drive. The S+ Shift system offers a sporty feel, while the cabin includes premium Civic-inspired elements.
Planned policies include ending EV subsidies, cutting public charger funding, and rolling back emissions standards, potentially slowing EV adoption while raising costs with global tariffs.
A Dubai junkyard reveals a surreal collection of exotic car wrecks, including Ferraris, Bentleys, and Rolls-Royces, destined to be salvaged for parts. Highlights include vehicles like the Ferrari 458 Italia and Aston Martin Rapide.
The next-gen A7 Avant wagon, featuring hybrid powertrains and sportier styling, will replace the A6 Avant and expand Audi’s electrified lineup.
Toyota’s electric bZ4X gets up to $6,000 price cuts, improved trims, and enhanced tech. The front-wheel-drive model offers 222 miles (357 km) of range, while all-wheel-drive options deliver slightly less.
BMW’s CES debut will feature a panoramic HUD spanning the windshield and AI-powered voice controls, launching first in Neue Klasse EVs.
A drag race pits Audi’s electric and combustion-engine RS cars head-to-head, with the e-tron GT completing a quarter mile in 10.8 seconds, beating the RS6 GT by 0.5 seconds.
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