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- new AMG V8!, C&D Lighting Lap, og Shelby Cobra
new AMG V8!, C&D Lighting Lap, og Shelby Cobra
PLUS: "new" McLaren F1s, hybrid SUV showdown, Rimac's E30 M3
2025-02-21
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Releases & Reviews
Carwow’s review showcases the new Audi A5’s sleek exterior, innovative multi‐screen cockpit, and refined design with genuine exhaust systems. The video compares its performance—with a 0–60 mph time near 7.7 seconds—to BMW and Mercedes rivals, underscoring its competitive value.
After 16,000 miles, the Prius Plug-In Hybrid proves dependable and fuel‐efficient, achieving 47.9 mpg‑e (~4.91 L/100km) while meeting its 39‐mile (~63 km) electric range. Minor quirks like a cluttered digital display and slower home charging hardly dim its cost‐effective charm.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Mercedes-AMG is developing an electrified 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 805 hp (~600 kW). This high-tech unit pairs a potent biturbo with an electric motor, marking a strategic evolution toward hybrid performance solutions in AMG’s lineup.
A new spy video hints that the Genesis GV60 Magma could exceed expectations with a unique performance tune adding “hundreds” more horsepower than its 429-hp (~320 kW) sibling. Benchmarked against the Porsche Taycan and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, improvements in battery and motors promise a thrilling yet controlled ride.
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Car Culture
Top Gear revisits the iconic Shelby Cobra, blending myth with modern testing. Despite a 427 cu in (7.0 L) engine tuned to 485 hp (~361 kW) and a top speed of 185 mph (298 km/h), its unruly handling reminds enthusiasts why this legend remains both revered and cautionary.
Car and Driver’s Lightning Lap 2025 delivers an adrenaline-charged showcase featuring diverse models—from the nimble Mazda MX-5 Miata to the formidable Porsche Taycan Turbo GT. Detailed lap times, braking figures, and tire innovations celebrate cutting-edge tech and raw motorsport passion.
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Miscellaneous
Mercedes-Benz reveals plans for a smaller, more affordable G-Class SUV built on a modified off-road platform. Rumored to be electric-only, the model signals a unified design strategy across powertrains as the brand adapts to evolving market demands.
Top Gear offers an exclusive glimpse of Kia’s PV5, a production-ready electric van available in Passenger and Cargo variants. Prioritizing internal space and versatility, the PV5 aims to rival competitors like the VW ID.Buzz, marking Kia’s bold step into the electric commercial market.
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Quick Links
Edmunds demonstrates that while the RAV4 Hybrid excels in efficiency despite mushy brakes, the CR-V impresses with responsive handling and the CX-50 hybrid offers a sportier drive, blending Toyota’s engine tech with distinct character.
Belgian artist Olivier de Schrijver’s meticulously carved life-sized wooden Bentley sculpture, constructed from reclaimed marine-grade teak and featuring intricate emblems and details, embodies a striking fusion of automotive art and craftsmanship after over 3,000 labor-intensive hours.
Reuters reports that Mercedes-Benz is refocusing on combustion engine models by introducing 19 new petrol and diesel vehicles and localizing production in China and the US to cut costs by up to 10% by 2027, aiming to revive declining earnings.
Doug DeMuro’s review highlights that the 2012 Maserati Quattroporte S, despite a legacy of early reliability issues, impresses with its refined transmission, Ferrari-derived V8 engine delivering approximately 425 horsepower (~317 kW), and uniquely detailed interior features that elevate its appeal.
MotorTrend’s review of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition highlights its refined exterior and upscale red leather interior while noting that the non-turbo 2.5-liter engine, delivering 187 horsepower (~139 kW) and 185 lb-ft torque (~251 Nm), underperforms slightly.
Hagerty’s ride-along at Willow Springs reveals that the 2025 GT350, with a robust 810-horsepower engine (~603 kW), delivers precise handling, responsive Brembo brakes, and finely tuned suspension, offering an exhilarating track experience.
An analysis of 3.8 million new car sales reveals that the Honda Civic, with a 13.7-year lifespan and only $2,006 annual cost, offers exceptional value compared to the average $4,197 per year, with Japanese and Korean models dominating.
BMW acknowledges Mate Rimac’s immaculate E30 M3 Sport Evolution III—one of only 600 produced—with its 2.5-liter engine upgraded from 192 horsepower (143 kW) to 238 horsepower (178 kW), exemplifying vintage racing excellence.
Volvo teases the ES90 electric sedan ahead of its March 5 reveal, emphasizing its SPA2 platform, Superset tech stack for frequent OTA updates, and shared 111.0-kWh battery that may boost range beyond the EX90 SUV.
Hagerty reveals that Gordon Murray’s new Special Vehicles division, GMSV, is set to produce bespoke, heritage, and exclusive models, potentially including a limited run of new McLaren F1s tailored for ultra-exclusive clientele.
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