- Today in Cars
- Posts
- Greatest Engine Swap, Hybrid GLC63, Grenade-Proof Cruiser
Greatest Engine Swap, Hybrid GLC63, Grenade-Proof Cruiser
PLUS: Younger Ferrari, Alfa Last Call, Ram Diesel Rumor
PRESENTED BY
Shopping for a used car but worried about hidden problems? Get peace of mind with Lemon Squad's nationwide inspection service.
Our expert inspectors go beyond the surface, performing comprehensive mechanical checks, computer diagnostics, and detailed photo documentation – all before you commit to buying.
From classics to exotics, motorcycles to RVs, we'll help you avoid costly mistakes. Make your next vehicle purchase with confidence by booking your professional inspection today.
2025-03-20
🚙
Releases & Reviews
Mercedes-AMG's new GLC63 S E Performance pairs a turbocharged four-cylinder with an electric motor for a combined 671 horsepower (501 kW) and 752 lb-ft (1020 Nm) of torque. This PHEV rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds, yet remains surprisingly comfortable for daily driving.
The 2026 Passport returns 19–25 mpg (12–9 L/100km) from its naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 and can travel around 389 miles (626 km) per tank. A slight dip in efficiency comes with the TrailSport off-road trim, but overall performance and practicality still match most midsize SUV rivals.
📈
Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Volvo employs an advanced technique called Gaussian splatting to create 3D renderings of real-world road data, then manipulates these digital models to test rare scenarios. By using Nvidia's supercomputing platform, the brand gains critical insights into potential hazards, allowing its driver-assist systems to react more effectively.
Bentley reported 2024 revenue of 2.648 billion euros (~$2.89 billion), down 10% from the previous year and marking its weakest performance since 2020. Although operating profit also fell, executives emphasize higher revenue per car, signaling a focus on exclusive, bespoke features rather than raw sales volume.
🛞
Car Culture
This whimsical discussion explores the resurgence of green paint across brands, from classic British Racing Green to vibrant Lamborghini hues. Whether it’s a Jaguar F-Type or an Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, enthusiasts agree that the right shade of green can elevate a car’s style and character.
A creative builder replaced a Ford Ranger’s original engine with a tiny, 6.5-hp (5 kW) go-kart motor, resulting in a humorous noise-to-speed ratio. Despite crawling to 25 mph (40 km/h), this ultra-light swap showcases impressive fabrication skills and the playful spirit of automotive enthusiasts everywhere.
🔧
Miscellaneous
Inkas Armored transforms the Land Cruiser into a civilian-spec fortress, meeting BR6 standards to repel rifle rounds and hand grenades. Reinforced suspension, run-flat tires, and ballistic glass maintain both off-road capability and occupant safety, offering a uniquely rugged yet luxurious solution for high-risk environments.
Mercedes-Benz confirms the A-Class hatchback and sedan will end production, positioning the CLA as its new entry-level offering. The move reflects a broader strategy to streamline compact models from seven to four, focusing on higher-end vehicles and shifting resources toward electrification and global market demands.
In partnership with Stuttgart Market Letter
Thousands of Porschephiles start their morning with a cup of coffee and a quick read through the Stuttgart Market Letter, which breaks down each day’s Porsche auction results with analytics and insights gleaned from over two decades in the Porsche business.
Subscribe to the Stuttgart Market Letter and start your morning with a boat-load of Porsche knowledge.
🏁
Quick Links
With sales down over 30%, Ford offers a $2,000 discount on the V8 GT and $1,000 on the EcoBoost, yet the 2025 Mustang still costs more than its original 2024 launch price.
Citing concerns over attendee and staff well-being, show organizers forced Tesla out after multiple protests, an arson attack at a Las Vegas repair facility, and the automaker’s first annual sales drop.
Targeting 350,000 annual EV sales with the new SU7 and forthcoming YU7, Xiaomi plans global expansion and hopes to surpass Volkswagen, Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche’s combined electric deliveries in China.
With 40% of new Ferrari owners now under 40—up from 30% last year—the iconic Italian automaker says shifting demographics and models like the Purosangue SUV are luring younger buyers worldwide.
As Alfa Romeo halts orders for its gas-powered 2.0-liter and 2.9-liter Quadrifoglio models in Europe by May 31, only the 2.2-liter diesel survives ahead of a future shift to multi-energy platforms.
General Motors is merging Cruise staff with its Super Cruise team and using Nvidia’s Drive AGX hardware to advance AI-driven L3 autonomy, digital factory ‘twins,’ and next-gen manufacturing processes.
Pulling a 20,000 pound (9,072 kg) load in cooler conditions still pushed this famed 11.4-mile (18 km) climb’s steep sections to the limit, highlighting why it’s the official SAE J2807 towing torture test.
Ram suggests a future Cummins diesel for the off-road-ready Power Wagon, which currently lacks the 6.7-liter engine producing 430 horsepower (321 kW) and 1,075 lb-ft (1,458 Nm) used in other HD trucks.
Despite a 5,000 pound (2,268 kg) tow rating and newly added trailer-brake controller, the 2.0-liter diesel Sprinter struggles on steep grades and heavy live loads, proving less suited for serious horse-hauling.
Spy shots reveal the next-generation Silverado’s massive dash-spanning digital display and quad-tip exhaust, hinting at design cues likely arriving for the 2027 model without major powertrain changes beyond incremental efficiency updates.
Reply