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- Nissan-Honda in doubt, Ford's big Q4, LX 700h perfect
Nissan-Honda in doubt, Ford's big Q4, LX 700h perfect
PLUS: Clarkson's favorite road, Jeep's winch, Valkyrie at Le Mans
2025-02-06
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Releases & Reviews
Lexus's first hybrid LX pairs a twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor to produce 457 horsepower (341 kW) and 583 lb-ft (791 Nm) of torque. Despite weighing 6,230 pounds (2,826 kg), the luxury SUV offers impressive off-road capability with front and rear locking differentials and an advanced hydraulic suspension system.
Throttle House drive McLaren's latest supercar, which delivers 740 horsepower (552 kW) through a twin-turbo V8, featuring distinctive P1-inspired center-exit exhaust and improved aerodynamics. Starting at $345,000, the 750S maintains McLaren's focus on precision engineering, though some reviewers find it almost too clinical in its pursuit of performance.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
The proposed merger between Honda and Nissan appears to be faltering after Honda made an unexpected proposal to fully acquire Nissan, deviating from initial plans for a joint holding company structure. The deal, announced in December, has faced challenges over equity ratios and asset valuations.
Ford anticipates up to $5.5 billion in losses from its electric vehicle operations in 2025, despite posting a Q4 2024 profit of $1.8 billion. The automaker is adjusting its EV strategy, delaying the next-generation F-150 Lightning while focusing on hybrid vehicles, which outsold pure EVs by nearly 2:1 in 2024.
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Car Culture
The one-year-only 1970 Plymouth AAR 'Cuda was built for Trans Am racing homologation, featuring a 340 cubic-inch V8 producing 290 horsepower (216 kW) and 350 lb-ft (475 Nm) of torque. The rare muscle car could reach 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and included special features like side-exit exhaust and fiberglass hood.
BMW's upcoming electric M3 will feature synthesized exhaust sounds reminiscent of a high-revving straight-six engine, revealed during winter testing in Sweden. The company suggests the EV will incorporate simulated gear shifting, following a trend set by performance EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
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Miscellaneous
The redesigned E450 4MATIC delivers 375 horsepower (280 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque from its mild-hybrid inline-six powertrain. The luxury sedan maintains traditional Mercedes values with exceptional ride comfort and build quality, though some reviewers note the controversial styling elements.
Volkswagen plans to unveil a new entry-level EV priced at €20,000 ($20,800), aiming for a 2027 launch. The vehicle, likely to be called the ID.1 or ID.One, represents VW's push into affordable electric mobility alongside the previously announced €25,000 ($26,000) ID.2all.
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Quick Links
Aston Martin's race-spec Valkyrie will run a detuned 671 hp (500 kW) version of its V12 engine compared to the road car's 1,000+ hp (746+ kW), optimized for endurance racing efficiency.
TFLcar purchases a TRD Off-Road Premium 4Runner for $58,390, featuring a 278 hp (207 kW) turbocharged four-cylinder engine replacing the outgoing V6.
Mitsubishi has slashed its profit forecast by 76% to 35 billion yen (~$226 million), citing weak sales in Southeast Asia and increased supplier costs.
Gunther Works' latest creation packs 810 hp (604 kW) and weighs just 2,790 pounds (1,265 kg), incorporating advanced air-to-water charge cooling for increased performance.
FCA's patent filing reveals plans to integrate electric winch functionality into future Jeep EVs by utilizing the vehicle's existing electric drive motor.
VW and Audi dealers in Florida are suing Scout Motors over its direct-to-consumer sales model, claiming the 50,000+ deposits already collected violate state franchise laws.
During Ford's Q4 earnings call, CEO Jim Farley warned that proposed 25% tariffs would significantly impact profits and increase consumer prices.
The legendary designer reflects on his career achievements, including the McLaren F1's unexpected Le Mans victory, while continuing work on the T.50 supercar at age 78.
The Drive Tribe team tests two MGs on the legendary Buttertubs Pass - a rare SVR V8 and the new 500 hp (373 kW) electric Cyberster - exploring one of Britain's most celebrated driving roads.
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