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- New 718 spied, Wagoneer S fizzles, Honda's "RS" trim?
New 718 spied, Wagoneer S fizzles, Honda's "RS" trim?
PLUS: BMW iDrive changes, Miata anniversary, future of offloading
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2025-01-28
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Releases & Reviews
America's first electric Jeep delivers 600 horsepower (447 kW) and 617 lb-ft (837 Nm) of torque, with a claimed 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds. Despite impressive performance metrics and 303 miles (488 km) of range, the luxury EV SUV suffers from a glaring lack of polish, low ground clearance, and limited towing capacity.
Porsche's electric 718 Cayman has been spotted testing, revealing styling elements from both the Mission R concept and Taycan sedan. The EV will be the first model built on Porsche's Premium Platform Electric architecture, with production expected to begin after the current gas-powered 718 line ends later this year.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
An NHTSA investigation into GM's L87 6.2-liter V8 engine failures has revealed widespread bearing and lifter issues affecting Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC trucks. Dealers report severe parts shortages for repairs, with some owners waiting over a month for replacement engines.
Honda Racing President reveals plans to develop an ultra-high-performance trim level above Type R and Type S models, incorporating HRC racing technologies. The new variant would focus on track capability while maintaining street legality, similar to Porsche's RS models.
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Car Culture
Jay Leno explores a rare 1994 BMW 850 CSI, one of only 225 US-spec models, featuring a 372 horsepower (277 kW) 5.6-liter V12 and six-speed manual transmission. The grand tourer showcases BMW's engineering prowess with innovative features like a dual computer system and sophisticated suspension setup.
Top Gear's guide details the intricacies of piloting Ferrari's legendary F40, highlighting its 478 horsepower (356 kW) twin-turbo V8 and demanding yet rewarding driving dynamics. The lightweight 2,750-pound (1,250 kg) supercar pioneered carbon fiber construction and remains a benchmark for analog performance.
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Miscellaneous
Top Gear looks at Ford's track-focused Mustang GTD, which delivers 815 horsepower (608 kW) and features advanced aerodynamics, carbon ceramic brakes, and massive 325 front/345 rear millimeter-section tires. The limited-production supercar achieved a sub-7-minute Nürburgring lap time, making it the first American car to do so.
Genesis unveiled the GV60 MIV (Mountain Intervention Vehicle) concept, converting their electric SUV into a rescue vehicle with snow tracks, medical supplies, and a Garmin GPS system. The 429 horsepower (320 kW) EV retains its vehicle-to-load capability to power rescue equipment in remote locations.
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Quick Links
BMW's new Operating System X eliminates both the iconic iDrive controller and gesture controls, transitioning to touch and voice inputs based on user behavior data showing decreased knob usage.
The 2025 Corvette ZR1, priced from $174,995, delivers 1,064 horsepower (793 kW) and a 233 mph (375 km/h) top speed, making it the priciest production Corvette even when adjusted for inflation.
Alfa Romeo has abandoned its 2027 all-electric target for North America, citing dealer concerns about EV-only sustainability given the brand's modest 8,865 U.S. sales in 2024.
Mercedes-Benz spent two years meticulously recreating the R107 SL's parking brake release knob, now available for €50 ($52), demonstrating their commitment to supporting classic car owners.
Ford is recalling 149,449 Broncos from 2021-2024 equipped with external reservoir shocks due to potential corrosion-related failures, affecting Badlands and Sasquatch package models.
Mazda celebrates the Miata's 35th anniversary with 300 special editions featuring Artisan Red Metallic paint, tan leather interior, and beige soft top for $37,445.
The final Wrangler 392 delivers 470 horsepower (350 kW) and 470 lb-ft of torque (637 Nm), hitting 0-60 in 4.5 seconds, offering extreme off-road capability with a hefty $100,000 price tag.
Infiniti will discontinue its entry-level crossovers in December 2025, with the brand focusing on newer models after QX50 and QX55 sales reached just 14,443 units combined in 2024.
Ford's refreshed Explorer ST boasts 400 horsepower (298 kW) and 415 lb-ft of torque (563 Nm), offering impressive performance and family practicality for $71,500.
Multiple automakers are developing drone-based spotting systems that could revolutionize off-road navigation by providing real-time aerial views of challenging terrain.
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