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- State of car markups, Harris on Conti GT, PCOTY
State of car markups, Harris on Conti GT, PCOTY
PLUS: M4 CS vs GT 350, Sienna Platinum shines, Boss Mustang
2025-01-22
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Releases & Reviews
The new Continental GT hybrid combines a 782 horsepower (583 kW) powertrain with remarkable chassis refinement, featuring twin-chamber dampers and four-wheel steering. Despite weighing 5,400 pounds (2,449 kg), the grand tourer demonstrates surprising agility and achieves a perfect balance between luxury cruising and dynamic capability.
The Crown Nightshade combines a 236 horsepower (176 kW) hybrid powertrain with standard all-wheel drive and distinctive black exterior accents. With 5.8 inches (147 mm) of ground clearance and 15.2 cubic feet (430 L) of cargo space, it delivers impressive fuel economy of 42 mpg (5.6 L/100km) city/41 mpg (5.7 L/100km) highway.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Consumer Reports data reveals ten models commanding 8% markups over MSRP, including the Toyota GR86, Ford Bronco, and Maverick. The trend affects vehicles across multiple segments, with the Toyota Grand Highlander starting at $45,080 seeing markups of $3,606.
The executive order eliminates federal funding for EV charging stations and challenges state emissions waivers, particularly targeting California's 2035 ICE sales ban. Automakers have expressed concern, noting billions already invested in EV development and requesting regulatory stability.
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Car Culture
The comedian declined a $25 million bid for his historic Porsche 917K chassis 917-022, previously owned by Steve McQueen and featured in the 1971 film "Le Mans". The legendary race car, one of just 65 built, helped secure Porsche's first Le Mans victory in 1970.
Road & Track's rigorous testing crowned the Lamborghini Revuelto as winner, with its 1,001 horsepower (746 kW) hybrid powertrain combining an 814 horsepower (607 kW) V12 with electric motors. The 4,000+ pound (1,814+ kg) supercar demonstrated exceptional performance while maintaining daily drivability.
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Miscellaneous
The actor commissioned builder Tyler Loguzzo to transform a Mercury Zephyr wagon into a modern performance machine, featuring a Gen 3 5.0-liter Coyote V8, Tremec T56 Magnum transmission, and SN95 Mustang suspension upgrades. The project showcases the versatility of Ford's Fox platform.
Sarasota Super Sport Performance showcases their turnkey Miata conversion featuring a GM LS3 V8 producing 410 horsepower (306 kW) and 412 lb-ft of torque (559 Nm). The build includes Wilwood 6-piston front brakes with 12.88-inch (327 mm) rotors and a comprehensive drivetrain upgrade.
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Quick Links
Ford's new trademark filing for "BOSS" covers both gasoline and electric vehicles across multiple segments, suggesting potential high-performance variants beyond just the Mustang lineup.
The 2025 Sienna Platinum AWD combines luxury features like heated captain's chairs with footrests, built-in refrigerator, and vacuum system for $60,270, while delivering hybrid efficiency and superior packaging over similarly-priced luxury SUVs.
Willis Performance's naturally aspirated 472 cubic inch (7.7L) Ford Godzilla engine achieved 973 hp (726 kW) at 8,200 RPM using stock block, heads, and crankshaft with a 14:1 compression ratio.
Recently filed European Union patent images reveal two potential limited-production S-Class coupe variants under the Mythos banner, featuring distinct AMG and Maybach styling treatments with unique grille designs.
JLR's Chief Commercial Officer confirms the current L663 Defender platform cannot accommodate a full EV powertrain due to packaging constraints, delaying electrification until the next generation.
Built on Stellantis's STLA Large platform, the upcoming all-electric Recon will feature removable doors, electronic locking differentials, and an estimated starting price of $60,000.
Kevin Enderby's 1984 Ferrari 308 GTS has accumulated 241,000 miles (388,000 km) through regular track use and daily driving, requiring over 1,100 hours of maintenance and consuming 720 quarts of oil over three decades.
Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton marked his first day as a Ferrari driver by visiting Enzo Ferrari's house, dressed in Italian fashion and drawing millions of enthusiastic fans to social media.
DS Automobiles aims to transform into an ultra-luxury brand competing with Bentley and Rolls-Royce over the next 10-20 years, despite currently holding just 0.3% European market share.
In a quarter-mile showdown, the 460 hp (343 kW) BMW M4 CS edged out the 600 hp (447 kW) Shelby GT350 with a 12.3-second pass versus the Mustang's 12.5-second run without launch control.
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