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- AMG's pocket rocket, honest Frontier, heads-up BMW design
AMG's pocket rocket, honest Frontier, heads-up BMW design
PLUS: wrench-able Scouts, engine sound science, 911 S loses 6MT
2025-01-09
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Releases & Reviews
The hybrid CR-V combines a 2.0-liter engine and electric motor to produce 204 hp (152 kW) total system output, with the electric motor delivering 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of instant torque. Despite its efficient 40 mpg city/34 mpg highway (5.9/6.9 L/100km) ratings with AWD, the crossover impresses with refined ride quality and well-calibrated chassis dynamics.
The refreshed CLA 45 S delivers 416 hp (310 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) from its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, shared with the Lotus Emira. Despite its high price point, the pocket rocket impresses with sharp handling and an aggressive DCT transmission.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
BMW's revolutionary Panoramic iDrive system, debuting in late 2025, projects a 3D heads-up display across the entire windshield, eliminating traditional gauge clusters. The system integrates augmented reality navigation and driver assistance features while maintaining standard windshield replacement costs.
Donut Lab's breakthrough 88-pound (40 kg) in-wheel motor generates 845 hp (630 kW) and 3,172 lb-ft (4,301 Nm) of rotor torque. The company suggests manufacturing costs could be 50% lower than conventional electric motors, with initial applications targeting commercial vehicles.
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Car Culture
Michael Simcoe, who led GM's design renaissance, will retire July 1, 2025. Bryan Nesbitt, current executive director of Global Cadillac Design, will become GM's eighth design chief in nearly a century.
Former WRC driver Luca Betti's Chimera operation crafts bespoke restomod Lancia 037s from a stunning 16th-century Italian villa. The company's limited production of 37 cars plus seven Martini-liveried editions demonstrates the growing market for ultra-premium classic car reimaginations.
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Miscellaneous
Chrysler CEO Christine Feuell confirms two new models inspired by the Halcyon concept will join the refreshed 2026 Pacifica. The upcoming SUV will offer both hybrid and battery-electric powertrains when it launches in 2026.
The updated Frontier offers 17 different configurations while maintaining a single powertrain: a 310 hp (231 kW) V6 with a nine-speed automatic. The Pro-4X trim delivers decent performance with a 7.3-second 0-60 mph time and impressive 7,150-pound (3,243 kg) towing capacity, while achieving 20 mpg (11.8 L/100km) on the highway.
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Quick Links
The refreshed 992.2-gen Carrera S gains 30 hp (22 kW) and hits 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, but drops the manual transmission option as Porsche shifts toward PDK-only offerings at $148,395.
Genesis's refreshed luxury SUV impresses with its 375 hp (280 kW) twin-turbo V6, massive 27-inch display screen, and premium features like full-body massage seats starting at $59,550.
Ferrari's first EV test mule reveals a distinct, combustion-like rumble emanating from behind the rear bumper, previewing the automaker's approach to maintaining its sonic identity in the electric era.
VW's revived Scout brand is prioritizing DIY repairability with 80% of service orders doable at home, featuring screwed-together components instead of glued assemblies typical of modern EVs.
Following their merger announcement, Honda executives hint at potentially sharing Nissan's full-size vehicle platforms or co-developing new ones to expand beyond their current SUV lineup.
Mercedes' new promotional film starring Antonio Banderas showcases the E-Class's ability to learn driver habits and preferences through extensive data collection and analysis.
BMW plans to make the next-generation M4 exclusively electric on its Neue Klasse platform, potentially offering around 700 hp (522 kW), while keeping the M3 available with both EV and combustion options.
Mercedes' ultra-luxury SUV receives its second refresh to extend its lifecycle, maintaining the 550 hp (410 kW) twin-turbo V8 powertrain amid slower-than-expected EV adoption.
Despite a 5% sales decline to 5,712 units in 2024, Rolls-Royce is expanding its Goodwood facility to enhance bespoke capabilities, including gold sculptures and intricate embroidery options.
A comprehensive exploration of engine acoustics reveals how firing orders, exhaust manifold design, and harmonics create distinctive sound signatures for different engine configurations.
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