- Today in Cars
- Posts
- New 4Runner driven, '26 RAV4 spied, shady dealers win
New 4Runner driven, '26 RAV4 spied, shady dealers win
PLUS: VW changes plans, Bond DB5 continuation, Mach-E Rallys
PRESENTED BY HoneyBook
Your best year starts here
Make 2025 your most successful year yet. Join HoneyBook in January to jumpstart your business with all the tools you need to manage client relationships—Plus a chance to win $10,000 in prizes.
2025-01-29
🚙
Releases & Reviews
Throttle House reviews the all-new sixth-generation 4Runner, which has an i-Force MAX hybrid powertrain producing 326 horsepower (243 kW) and 465 lb-ft (630 Nm) of torque. Despite mixed feelings about the engine response, the Trail Hunter trim showcases impressive off-road capability with old man emu suspension, 33-inch tires, and a more intuitive interior featuring a 14-inch touchscreen.
This rare supercar showcases its 550 horsepower (410 kW) supercharged 5.4-liter V8 paired with a Ricardo six-speed manual transmission. Raiti emphasizes the GT's exceptional build quality and driving dynamics, noting its 0-60 mph time of 3.3 seconds and unique ability to reach 60 mph in first gear alone.
📈
Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Spy photos reveal the next-generation RAV4's design language aligns with the Crown Signia, featuring bracketed lighting elements and a cleaner side profile. Expected to launch exclusively with hybrid powertrains, the redesigned crossover maintains its practical character while adopting a more upright rear hatch for increased cargo capacity.
Despite projecting 2025 net income of $11.2-12.5 billion, GM shares dropped 8.9% amid concerns over potential Trump tariffs on steel, aluminum, and copper. The automaker reported Q4 revenue of $47.7 billion, surpassing analyst expectations, while maintaining an average vehicle selling price of $50,000.
🛞
Car Culture
Porsche GT chief Andreas Preuninger reaffirms commitment to manual transmissions in GT cars, noting that 46% of standard GT3 buyers and 75% of GT3 Touring customers choose the stick shift. He argues that manual transmissions are actually more efficient than PDK due to lower mechanical resistance and reduced hydraulic demands.
Land Rover's new Defender OCTA proves its capabilities across South Africa's diverse terrain, powered by a BMW-sourced twin-turbo V8 delivering 620 horsepower (462 kW). Seen Through Glass praises its exceptional on-road dynamics despite its off-road focus, crediting the sophisticated 6D Dynamic suspension system.
🔧
Miscellaneous
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court struck down the FTC's CARS Rule, which would have required dealers to provide transparent "offering prices" including all fees and dealer-installed options. The FTC estimated the rule would have saved consumers $3.4 billion and 72 million hours annually in dealership negotiations.
BMW's electric SUV lineup expands with a new base xDrive45 model offering 402 horsepower (300 kW) and an estimated 312 miles (502 km) range, while the mid-tier xDrive60 now delivers 536 horsepower (400 kW) with 340 miles (547 km) of range. The revised model features larger batteries across all trims and a simplified front grille design, with deliveries starting in Q2 2025.
🏁
Quick Links
One of just 25 DB5 Goldfinger Continuation cars is heading to auction, featuring working James Bond gadgets including rotating license plates, smoke screens, and simulated machine guns.
Alfa Romeo confirms the next-generation Giulia will transform from a sport sedan into a crossover, sharing its STLA Large platform with the upcoming Stelvio SUV.
Celebrating the 4Runner's legacy, from its Wisconsin dealership-inspired origins to five generations of evolution, with the first-gen's solid front axle and 116 horsepower (87 kW) fuel-injected engine.
Volkswagen has scrapped plans to bring its 282 horsepower (210 kW), 402 lb-ft (545 Nm) ID.7 electric sedan to North America, citing challenging EV market conditions.
BMW teases an even more potent M3 CS Touring wagon expected to pack 543 horsepower (405 kW), though like the standard M3 Touring, it won't be offered in the US market.
Factory Five's new Cobra replica kit features a 400% stiffer rectangular spaceframe, accommodates larger drivers up to 330 pounds (150 kg), and starts at $24,990 with options for Ford's 7.3-liter Godzilla crate engine.
Jeep's first US-market EV looks impressive on paper, but disappoints behind the wheel.
Law enforcement's practice of tapping tail lights during traffic stops has evolved from leaving fingerprint evidence to a tactical approach for startling potentially suspicious drivers.
Ford's rally-inspired Mach-E variant delivers 480 horsepower (358 kW) and 700 lb-ft (949 Nm) of torque, featuring unique rally-tuned suspension, white wheels, and increased ride height.
Reply