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- Industry turmoil, new Maserati track weapon, GR Corolla boost
Industry turmoil, new Maserati track weapon, GR Corolla boost
PLUS: '27 Camaro scrapped, Ev4 reveal, Yugo return?
2025-02-18
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Releases & Reviews
Savagegeese review the just-released Maserati GT2 Stradale, a track-focused variant of the mc20 with 640 horsepower (477 kW) and 530 lb-ft torque (720 Nm). Enhanced aerodynamics, recalibrated suspension, and brake-by-wire systems deliver 0–100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, blending cutting-edge performance with Maserati’s signature elegance.
Motor1’s review confirms the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla remains the AWD hot hatch king. Subtle updates, including a revised front fascia and an ECU tune boosting torque from 273 lb-ft (370 Nm) to 295 lb-ft (400 Nm), preserve its charm and performance among sport compacts.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Harry’s Garage dissects the industry’s sudden shift from pure electric to plug-in hybrid strategies. Citing setbacks from low EV sales and lingering dieselgate fallout, the video reviews announcements from Lotus, Volvo, and Bentley, questioning the future of all-electric models in a turbulent market.
Volkswagen and Audi are deferring full electrification in Europe, choosing to invest in refreshed ICE models amid declining EV sales. Insiders reveal delayed EV goals and extended life cycles, as both brands balance performance upgrades with regulatory pressures despite ambitious EU zero-emission targets.
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Car Culture
AutoTrader’s scientific showdown pits the BMW M5, Audi RS7, and Porsche Panamera against each other in acceleration, grip, and efficiency tests. The M5 clocks an 11.5-second quarter-mile and impressive fuel economy, while styling and weight discrepancies spark spirited debate among enthusiasts.
Jay Leno & John Willhoit Drive the Ultimate Porsche Speedster! | Jay Leno's Garage (39 minute watch)
Jay Leno and John Willhoit demonstrate a vintage Porsche Speedster’s complete restoration. The original 75 horsepower (56 kW) engine is upgraded to a 2.2-liter unit producing 177 horsepower (132 kW) and 162 lb-ft torque (220 Nm). Enhanced disc brakes and modern transmission tuning merge classic design with improved performance.
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Miscellaneous
TopGear reveals BMW’s experimental VDX electric test rig, generating 13,269 lb-ft torque (~18,008 Nm). Built on a carbon chassis with advanced modes like Drift and Comfort, the rig’s 1 kHz control system promises breakthroughs in EV dynamics.
A UK study warns that brake dust from NAO pads, laden with copper and other compounds, poses greater health risks than diesel exhaust. The research highlights non-exhaust emissions’ impact on air and water quality, urging tighter regulations to curb harmful particulate pollution.
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Quick Links
New reports reveal that sophisticated smuggling networks are exporting nearly 10% of stolen vehicles overseas, using techniques like relay attacks and CAN injections to facilitate the trade in both luxury and crossover models.
The production model updates the EV4’s futuristic design with refined features like flush door handles, regular side mirrors, dual front bumpers, and distinct rear profiles, with full technical specs to be disclosed at its upcoming debut.
Magna’s prototype conversion replaces the Gladiator’s Pentastar engine with dual electric motors producing 252 horsepower (188 kW) at the front and 319 horsepower (238 kW) at the rear, powered by an 83-kWh battery and managed by proprietary eBeam software.
Seen Through Glass reviews the hybrid Continental GT Speed as a versatile, family-friendly daily driver that impressively blends 770 horsepower (574 kW) and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque with refined comfort and dynamic performance.
Insider sources reveal that a proposal for a seventh-generation Camaro failed to meet aggressive sales and profitability targets, leading GM management to dismiss the plan while keeping the project in cautious consideration.
The exclusive tenth Prodrive P25 restomod, with only 190 miles and featuring a blueprinted EJ25 boxer-four tuned to 444 horsepower (331 kW) and 487 lb-ft (660 Nm) of torque, is now up for auction on Bonhams.
In an ambitious revival, the new Yugo promises retro-futuristic styling inspired by the classic model and Hyundai Ioniq 5 cues, built on an undisclosed platform and set for a 2027 debut with affordable combustion engines.
This $15 million Winterhaven compound blends luxurious living with a turnkey racing resort, featuring extensive garages, a dirt track, airstrip facilities, and numerous automotive amenities including karts and a 7,100-square-foot main garage.
TheStraightPipes’ review of the 2025 Porsche Macan Turbo praises its launch control that delivers 630 horsepower (470 kW) and 833 lb-ft (1,130 Nm) of torque, along with an innovative augmented reality head-up display and responsive suspension.
In a harrowing incident in Quincy, California, a 19-year-old Subaru Outback driver survived a collision where the vehicle was skewered sideways by a guardrail amid icy conditions, sustaining only moderate injuries despite significant infrastructure damage.
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