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- Surprise new Aston, Santa Fe trade-offs, NOT a 911
Surprise new Aston, Santa Fe trade-offs, NOT a 911
PLUS: 6MT take rates, chasing Dakar, near perfect Civic
2025-01-16
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Releases & Reviews
The hybrid Santa Fe pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter four with an electric motor for a total output of 231 horsepower (172 kW) and 271 lb-ft of torque (367 Nm). While slower than the standard model at 7.8 seconds to 60 mph, the hybrid delivers impressive EPA estimates of 35 mpg city and 34 mpg highway (6.7 L/100km, 6.9 L/100km), though real-world testing yielded only 26 mpg (9.0 L/100km).
The plug-in hybrid E53 produces 577 horsepower (430 kW) in normal mode, rising to 641 horsepower (478 kW) in Race Start mode, enabling 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds. While the 21-inch wheels and stiff suspension create noticeable road noise, the car impresses with its precise steering and sophisticated handling despite its substantial weight.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Texas has filed a landmark lawsuit against Allstate and its data broker subsidiary Arity for allegedly collecting "trillions of miles worth" of location data from over 45 million people through popular apps without proper consent. The collected data reportedly included detailed vehicle movements and was used to adjust insurance policies.
Acura is reviving the RSX badge for an all-electric crossover SUV, marking the brand's first vehicle built on Honda's new EV platform. Set to begin production by year's end at Honda's new EV Hub in Ohio, the RSX will debut the company's ASIMO operating system and feature a "coupe-like silhouette" as a nod to its sporty predecessor.
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Car Culture
The 621-horsepower (463 kW) RS6 Avant delivers supercar performance with ample cargo space. Despite its 5,016-pound (2,275 kg) mass, it hits 60 mph in 3.3 seconds and offers remarkable refinement, though fuel economy averages just 17 mpg (13.8 L/100km).
Built on a unique carbon fiber chassis with a 70mm longer wheelbase than a 911, the naturally aspirated SCR produces 503 horsepower (375 kW) at 8,270 rpm. Despite its race car-like construction, the $800,000 sports car delivers a surprisingly refined driving experience with sophisticated suspension tuning and precise handling.
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Miscellaneous
Using Toyota's proven hybrid system, the CX-50 matches competitors with a 7.6-second 0-60 mph time while delivering impressive 39/37 mpg city/highway (6.0/6.4 L/100km). Despite a tighter rear seat than rivals, the CX-50 stands out with more engaging driving dynamics and superior emergency braking performance.
The 656-horsepower (489 kW) twin-turbo V8 Roadster reaches 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, just 0.1 seconds slower than the coupe despite adding only 132 pounds (60 kg). The Z-fold soft top operates in 6.8 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph (50 km/h), while extensive chassis reinforcement maintains the coupe's dynamic capabilities.
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Quick Links
Honda's new 200 horsepower (149 kW) hybrid powertrain delivers impressive speed and efficiency in the refreshed Civic Sport Touring.
In a historic shift, Lamborghini delivered 10,700 vehicles in 2024, surpassing Bentley's sales for the first time since joining the VW Group, while Bentley's deliveries plunged 21.5% to 10,600 units.
With Pennsylvania's recent legalization, doorless driving is now permitted in all 50 states, though most require at least one mirror, with five states mandating both side mirrors and a rearview mirror.
Manual transmission take rates remain strong in enthusiast vehicles, with the Porsche 911 at 37%, BMW M2 at 50%, and Mazda Miata reaching 70% of total sales.
A Deloitte survey reveals 44% of Americans aged 18-34 would consider giving up car ownership for mobility services, while 62% of all US respondents still prefer gas engines for their next vehicle.
UK's zero emissions vehicle mandate requires 22% of manufacturer sales to be electric in 2024, with increasing targets reaching 100% by 2035, driving automakers' shift toward EV development.
The aluminum-bodied Defender proved remarkably comfortable over rough terrain thanks to its sophisticated independent suspension, despite its 5,000-pound (2,268 kg) weight.
The $116,160 track-focused upgrade package increases downforce by 20% to 2,200 pounds (998 kg) at 177 mph (285 km/h) through extensive aerodynamic modifications.
How Scout Motors Plans to Deliver Both Modern Tech and Digital Detox—Simultaneously (12 minute read)
The upcoming Terra pickup and Traveler SUV will feature a unique "Community UX" system combining physical controls with a 16.2-inch touchscreen, plus an optional satellite internet connection for remote adventures.
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