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- Subaru's big bet, $45k Tesla killer, GT3 RS sold!
Subaru's big bet, $45k Tesla killer, GT3 RS sold!
PLUS: Best exhausts of '24, amazing F40 detailing, 60s classics
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2024-12-27
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Releases & Reviews
Despite its manual-only configuration and sport-focused enhancements, the new Civic Si trails its competitors in straight-line performance, reaching 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. However, equipped with optional performance tires, it impresses with sports-car-like 102-foot braking distance from 60 mph and 0.94g lateral grip. The 200-horsepower (149 kW) turbocharged engine and engaging driving dynamics come at a $1,200 premium over the quicker Civic Sport Hybrid.
The 2025 BMW X3 xDrive30 Is A Fuel Sipping Electrified SUV For Driving Enthusiasts (26 minute watch)
BMW's redesigned X3 combines efficiency with performance, featuring a mild-hybrid 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque. The base xDrive30 model achieves impressive fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg city (8.7 L/100km) and 33 mpg highway (7.1 L/100km), while still capable of towing up to 4,850 pounds (2,200 kg). Interior upgrades include a new 14.9-inch infotainment display with iDrive 9 software.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Subaru will launch its first Forester Hybrid in mid-2025, leveraging Toyota's electrical expertise combined with Subaru's signature boxer engine. The hybrid powertrain is expected to utilize a 2.5-liter flat-four engine paired with an electric motor in a parallel arrangement, maintaining Subaru's trademark all-wheel-drive system while focusing on efficiency improvements.
Porsche has filed an intriguing patent for a six-stroke engine that delivers two power strokes every three crankshaft revolutions. The innovative design features variable stroke lengths between 83mm and 118mm, along with unique cylinder wall ports for scavenging.
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Car Culture
Xiaomi's first venture into automotive manufacturing has produced an impressive Tesla Model S rival, developed in just 2.5 years. The midrange SU7 Max boasts 665 horsepower (496 kW) and achieves 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds, while the ultra version claims nearly 1,500 horsepower (1,119 kW). Despite its premium features and performance, Chinese market pricing starts at approximately $45,000.
Mat Watson documents the emotional process of selling his Porsche GT3 RS after just one year of ownership to make way for a new ST model. The pristine GT3 RS, with only 2,500 miles (4,023 km) and carefully maintained following Andreas Preuninger's suggested running-in period, represents both the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter with Porsche.
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Miscellaneous
A significant number of vehicles will be discontinued in 2025, including icons like the Bugatti Chiron and Nissan GT-R. Jaguar is eliminating its entire current lineup as it transitions to electric vehicles, while other notable departures include the Chevrolet Camaro, Lamborghini Huracán, and several Maserati models.
Top Gear magazine showcases its photographic highlights from 2024, featuring diverse automotive experiences from racing a Bentley Blower Junior against a steam train to testing the Ferrari SF90 XX at Fiorano. The collection includes shots of the groundbreaking McMurtry Spéirling and behind-the-scenes glimpses at Lucid's facilities.
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Quick Links
New Zealand's Rodin Cars unveils its FZero track car, claiming over 1,500 hp (1,119 kW) from a custom 4.0L twin-turbo V10 and generating an astounding 8,818 lbs (4,000 kg) of downforce at 186 mph (300 km/h).
Genesis reveals its LMDh prototype race car GMR-001, partnering with Oreca for an ambitious factory effort to take on established manufacturers at Le Mans in just 14 months.
Hertz offers Tesla Model 3 renters chance to purchase their vehicles for ~$18,000, as the company scales back its EV fleet amid repair challenges and low customer demand.
Infiniti's redesigned flagship SUV gains a 450 hp (336 kW) twin-turbo V6, replacing the outgoing V8, but at 6,491 lbs (2,944 kg) becomes the segment's heaviest entry despite minimal size increases.
From the air-cooled Corvair to the breakthrough Toyota Corolla, MotorTrend examines five revolutionary vehicles that shaped automotive development during the turbulent 1960s.
Denver car enthusiasts leveraged social media to track down a stolen 1993 Nissan Skyline GT-R, with crowd-sourced sightings leading to its recovery just 44 hours after theft.
Car and Driver compiles their favorite engine sounds of 2024, featuring everything from the Acura Integra Type S to the Gordon Murray T.50's naturally aspirated V12.
Justin Gurney reunites with his father Dan's 1961 Chevrolet Impala race car, which famously challenged Jaguar's dominance in British touring car racing before controversial disqualification.
A specialty detailing shop documents the painstaking restoration of Nigel Mansell's former Ferrari F40, including dry ice cleaning and complete disassembly of interior components.
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