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- GT350 breakdown, Kia's Buzz killer, McLaren engine tech
GT350 breakdown, Kia's Buzz killer, McLaren engine tech
PLUS: Ford recalls a recall, Nissan shakeup, MT POTY
2025-02-28
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Releases & Reviews
Shelby American reclaims the iconic GT350 name, now built on the s650 platform with a 5.0L Coyote V8 enhanced by a Whipple supercharger. Raitiās Rides highlights the GT350ās aggressive styling, balanced dynamics, and optional GT350R variant, boasting over 830 hp (~619 kW) and track-focused details.
Kia unveils its versatile PV5 electric van concept, featuring flexible configurations including passenger and cargo models. The midsize box sports a 120-kW (161-hp) motor, battery options from 43.3 to 71.2 kWh, and an estimated range up to 249 miles (400 km), highlighting its adaptability for diverse markets.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
McLaren introduces a revolutionary hybrid V8 for its W1 hypercar, blending a 4.0-liter engine producing 916 hp (~683 kW) and 664 lb-ft (~900 Nm) with a lightweight hybrid system. Key innovations include twin-scroll turbochargers and a 44 lb (~20 kg) E-Module optimizing power and transient response.
AEG warns that proposed tariffs could add $4,000 to $12,000 per vehicle, squeezing domestic production and potentially triggering layoffs. The analysis compares the impact to the UAW strike, with industry experts predicting significant cost pressures and market chaos under new trade policies.
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Car Culture
Fordās recent Mach 4 trademark filing hints at a potential four-door Mustang, blending performance with practicality. The move rekindles classic Mustang heritage and invites speculation on future designs, as enthusiasts recall past experiments and the brandās enduring legacy.
Doug DeMuro revisits the cult-classic 2005 Audi S4 B6, lauding its bold V8 upgrade that pushed power to 340 hp (~254 kW) and 300 lb-ft (~407 Nm) of torque. The review nostalgically highlights its unique design cues and driving dynamics that set it apart in its era.
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Miscellaneous
Kia challenges SUV dominance with the 2026 EV4 sedan and hatchback pair, built on the E-GMP platform. The front-wheel-drive models offer a 201 hp (~150 kW) motor and long-range variants reaching up to 391 miles (630 km), emphasizing efficient packaging and innovative design.
Throttle House reviews the redesigned 2025 Infiniti QX80 Autograph, a behemoth luxury SUV that combines imposing size with refined features. With an 8,500 lb (~3,855 kg) towing capacity, premium interiors, and advanced tech, the QX80 aims to rival top-tier competitors while delivering commanding road presence.
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Quick Links
Edmunds Cars' U-DRAGS race sees the AMG GT 63, with 577 horsepower (430 kW) and 590 lb-ft (801 Nm) of torque, narrowly outpacing the Maserati MC20 Cielo's 621 horsepower (463 kW) and 538 lb-ft (729 Nm) in a thrilling quarter-mile battle.
Dealers must re-address repairs on roughly 332 Mustangs due to an inverted polarity calibration error in the secondary digital torque sensor, a flaw that initially caused unintended steering assist and minor oscillations.
Amid consecutive dismal quarters and stalled merger talks with Honda, Nissan plans to streamline managementāpotentially closing three plantsāwhile CEO Makoto Uchida is expected to remain, signaling a delayed but determined turnaround.
Mansoryās controversial 'Elongation' Cybertruck, loaded with carbon fiber accents and illuminated badging, transforms the Tesla design with an overly aggressive aesthetic and an interior offering extensive, customizable finishes that many argue undermine its original appeal.
Audi has discontinued the A4 sedan in favor of the 2025 A5 hatchback featuring increased pricing, 268 horsepower (200 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque from a 2.0-liter hybrid engine, marking a move upmarket.
Following a 24% sales drop in China and plans to cut 9,000 jobs globally, major credit agencies have downgraded Nissan to junk status, reflecting persistently low profitability and a delayed recovery trajectory.
BMW has launched an expansive online museum featuring detailed overviews and engine specs for 424 classic models, offering enthusiasts a comprehensive digital treasure trove for research and nostalgia.
After over 60 years in storage, a revived Willys-Knight sleeve valve engineābuilt without a traditional valvetrain and engineered with sliding cylinder sleevesāruns quietly and reliably, showcasing early automotive ingenuity.
Raiti's Rides reviews the 2025 Honda Civic Si, a rally red, manual 1.5L turbo sedan delivering 200 horsepower (149 kW) and 192 lb-ft (260 Nm) of torque, achieving 0ā60 in 6.3 seconds and a competitive $31,500 MSRP.
Jose MuƱoz, the first non-Korean president of Hyundai Motor Co., earned the 2025 MotorTrend Person of the Year title by leading record-breaking global sales and ambitious EV and hybrid expansion plans despite ongoing industry challenges.
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