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- Dodge's last Demon, not-quite STI, C7 Z06 revisited
Dodge's last Demon, not-quite STI, C7 Z06 revisited
PLUS: Best of 2024, Genesis Magma strategy, Cupra coming
2024-12-23
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Releases & Reviews
The Demon 170 represents the ultimate evolution of Dodge's muscle car legacy, boasting a staggering 1,025 horsepower from its supercharged V8. Despite its raw power, the car maintains surprising composure with its specially-tuned suspension and drag radial tires. While the interior shows its age, the visceral driving experience and distinctive half-wide-body design make it a fitting finale for the V8 era.
Car and Driver's long-term Macan T test vehicle, finished in distinctive Copper Ruby Metallic, demonstrates Porsche's commitment to driver engagement in the crossover segment. The 261 hp (195 kW) turbocharged four-cylinder delivers a 5.4-second sprint to 60 mph, while the European delivery program offered a unique opportunity to experience the vehicle on German roads and Porsche's Leipzig test track.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a new voluntary framework for autonomous vehicle oversight, potentially easing the path for cars without traditional controls. The program, called AV STEP, would remove annual caps on safety requirement exemptions but demands increased data transparency from manufacturers to build public trust.
Volkswagen has negotiated a landmark agreement to reduce its German workforce by 35,000 positions through attrition, while avoiding immediate layoffs or plant closures. The deal, reached after 70 hours of negotiations, targets annual savings of €15 billion (~$16.5 billion) and includes significant production capacity reductions at key facilities like Wolfsburg.
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Car Culture
Despite initial skepticism about its hybrid powertrain, the new BMW M5 proves its worth with impressive performance numbers. The combination of a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 and electric motor generates 727 hp (542 kW) and 737 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque, while dyno testing reveals even higher actual output numbers, demonstrating BMW's conservative power claims.
The WRX tS emerges as Subaru's top-tier performance model, filling the void left by the discontinued STI. With 271 hp (202 kW) and upgraded Brembo brakes, the tS offers an engaging driving experience with electronically controlled dampers and selectable driving modes, though some enthusiasts may miss the raw character of the STI.
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Miscellaneous
Dodge has reversed its decision to end Hemi V8 production, extending manufacturing into 2025 specifically for the Durango SUV. Both the 360 hp (269 kW) 5.7-liter and the 710 hp (529 kW) supercharged 6.2-liter variants will continue, with the range-topping Durango SRT Hellcat remaining on offer.
The C7 Z06 remains a testament to front-engine Corvette excellence, with its supercharged V8 delivering theatrical performance and engaging dynamics. Despite some cooling issues with automatic transmissions, the platform's improved body rigidity and advanced aerodynamics make it a significant milestone in Corvette history, particularly in manual transmission form.
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Quick Links
The publication's year-end roundup includes major reveals like the new Toyota 4Runner and several controversial automotive rebranding stories.
The one-off overlander features a 44-gallon (167L) fuel tank, 16-stage adjustable suspension, and comprehensive off-grid power management system.
VW Group's Spanish performance brand plans US launch by decade's end, targeting 50,000 annual sales per model with hybrid and combustion powertrains.
The new CLE53 hits 60 mph in 3.6 seconds and pulls 1.00g on the skidpad, while maintaining remarkable comfort and refinement.
Beyond slowing down, experts recommend maintaining extra following distance and separating braking from steering inputs when navigating slippery winter conditions.
The innovative engine concept combines four-stroke and two-stroke cycles using a complex geared crankshaft to achieve two consecutive power strokes per cycle.
In a 3,000-mile (4,828 km) Seattle-to-Boston race, the winning electric vehicle finished just two hours behind a gas-powered control car after 46 hours of driving.
TheStraightPipes showcase the Cybertruck's unique features including steer-by-wire technology, 600 hp (441 kW) dual-motor powertrain, and controversial one-pedal driving that cannot be disabled.
Despite adding over 37,700 public charging ports in 2024, experts say the current installation pace needs to accelerate significantly to meet projected 2030 demand.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, Genesis will tailor its Magma performance variants to each model's character, with sportier tuning for smaller vehicles.
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