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- Bronco shocks, Harris on Vanquish, Murano steps up
Bronco shocks, Harris on Vanquish, Murano steps up
PLUS: 2027 GR Corolla updates, Ford eyes Le Mans, 3 M5 drag race
2025-02-03
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Releases & Reviews
Boasting over 800 horsepower (597 kW), the new Vanquish demonstrates significantly improved front-end grip and handling dynamics compared to its DBS predecessor. Chris Harris praises the McLaren 720S-rivaling straight-line performance, though the new damper settings prioritize sportiness over GT comfort.
The much improved Murano packs a new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 241 horsepower (180 kW) and 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic. Despite its modern makeover and improved dynamics, fuel economy remains modest at 23 mpg (10.2 L/100km) combined.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
The 25% tariff on vehicles from Canada and Mexico could significantly impact US auto prices, affecting approximately 5.3 million vehicles annually. Industry analysts warn the tariffs would likely result in reduced dealer incentives and potential production cuts.
Ford is recalling nearly 150,000 2021-2024 Bronco Badlands and Sasquatch Package vehicles due to potential rear shock absorber reservoir separation caused by corrosion. The fix remains under development, with parts expected in Q3 2025.
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Car Culture
After 20,672 miles (33,270 km) of MotorTrend testing, the Wagoneer impressed with its 420-horsepower (313 kW) twin-turbo inline-six and highway comfort but fell short of expectations in off-road capability. Maintenance costs totaled $330.69 for two services, with fuel economy averaging 16.4 mpg (14.3 L/100km).
Starting at $72,000, the new RHO trades the TRX's supercharged V8 for a 540-horsepower (403 kW) Hurricane inline-six while retaining the impressive long-travel Bilstein suspension setup. Despite the power decrease, 0-60 mph takes just 4.6 seconds.
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Miscellaneous
Ford CEO Jim Farley hints at developing a dedicated off-road performance vehicle, potentially leveraging technology from the company's recent third-place finish at the Dakar Rally with the Raptor T1+.
Harry Metcalfe reviews the updated GR86. Its 2.4-liter boxer engine delivers improved low-end torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) at 3,700 RPM, addressing a key criticism of its predecessor. Despite a modest 1,275 kg (2,811 lbs) weight, the sports car maintains impressive handling dynamics and driver engagement.
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Quick Links
The hot hatch may receive a significant power boost by switching from its current 1.6L three-cylinder to a new 2.0L turbo-four engine producing up to 395 hp (294 kW).
Porsche's GT division aims to break the 7:01.3 manual transmission lap record at the Nürburgring, which has been held by the Dodge Viper ACR since 2017.
Ford has announced a new factory hypercar program aimed at winning Le Mans outright, nearly 60 years after the GT40's historic victory streak.
The upcoming performance wagon, replacing the RS4 Avant, will combine a twin-turbo 2.9L V6 with electrification.
Rob Dahm has completed his triple-turbocharged, 12-rotor engine project, creating a massive powerplant that produces an otherworldly sound at its 9,000 rpm redline.
Edmunds previews upcoming EVs including Kia's $35,000 EV3, Ram's 500-mile range REV, and multiple manufacturers' plans for solid-state battery implementation by 2030.
A three-way showdown between M5 generations reveals the new 727 hp (542 kW) hybrid G90 facing off against its lighter F90 and F10 predecessors.
The $680,000 Lancia 037 recreation combines a twin-charged 505 hp (377 kW) four-cylinder with modern suspension to create an engaging analog driving experience.
MotorTrend's long-term test reveals the electric sedan's surprising practicality for families, highlighting its flat floor and innovative storage solutions despite limited headroom.
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