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- Farewell Supra, McLaren expands, Norris's Skyline
Farewell Supra, McLaren expands, Norris's Skyline
PLUS: Z thrashes Supra, America's hypercars, Charger vs Challenger
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2025-04-07
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Releases & Reviews
[Savagegeese] Honda's redesigned two-row Passport TrailSport shares its architecture with the Pilot but emphasizes off-road capability with torque-vectoring AWD, all-terrain tires, and retuned dampers. Powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 making 285 hp (212 kW) and paired with a 10-speed auto, it features upgraded infotainment and rugged styling. While not as hardcore as body-on-frame rivals, it strikes a rare balance between real-world trail usability and daily comfort.
[Redline Reviews] This limited-run sendoff retains the familiar 3.0L turbo inline-six with 382 hp (285 kW), but gains retuned suspension, matte color options, and subtle aero tweaks. While Europe’s version got more power and titanium exhaust, the U.S. edition focuses on handling refinements and manual transmission availability. Just 1,300 units are coming stateside, priced below $70K and aimed at collectors and die-hard fans.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Now under Abu Dhabi's CYVN Holdings, McLaren plans to diversify beyond supercars via a merger with stealth EV brand Forseven. Future models may leverage CYVN’s ties to NIO, with electrification and broader luxury segments on the horizon. The plan signals a potential expansion into SUVs or lifestyle vehicles—a stark shift for the performance-focused brand.
A record 19.8% of new-car buyers opted for 84-month loans in Q1 2025, reflecting continued affordability challenges despite stable 7.1% interest rates. Monthly payments of $1,000+ remain common, and 0% financing has virtually disappeared, now just 1.0% of loans. Analysts warn that extended terms are masking financial strain, especially as tariffs threaten further price hikes.
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Car Culture
F1 star Lando Norris arrived at Suzuka in a heavily modified Liberty Walk R32 Skyline, decked out in his Quadrant brand livery. With a matching manga-themed helmet and boots, the car—and the moment—captured Japanese tuner culture and fan admiration. It's a rare crossover of motorsport glamor and grassroots JDM enthusiasm.
Doug DeMuro revisits the Chrysler Crossfire, a rear-drive coupe based on the Mercedes SLK with heavy parts sharing and a 215 hp (160 kW) V6. Quirky styling, a rare manual option, and unmistakable Benz interior cues make it a curious leftover from the Daimler-Chrysler merger era. It’s more Mercedes than Chrysler—just with a badge swap and sharper creases.
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Miscellaneous
Kia confirmed it’s developing a U.S.-specific midsize pickup, distinct from the overseas body-on-frame Tasman. Possible directions include a unibody design like Hyundai’s Santa Cruz or even an EV on the IMA platform. Whatever form it takes, local production is expected to skirt tariffs and appeal directly to American truck buyers.
With sweeping new tariffs taking effect, The Autopian warns that prices on vehicle repairs and imported parts could spike. From engine mounts to brake pads, costs may rise as companies pass on fees or face disrupted supply chains. The advice: fix your car now, stock up on essentials, and prepare for inflationary ripple effects in the automotive world.
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Quick Links
Subaru’s first-ever Forester Hybrid gets 35 mpg combined (6.7 L/100km), a 194 hp (145 kW) hybrid powertrain with AWD, smoother planetary CVT, and a surprisingly refined ride thanks to upgraded suspension and added sound insulation.
Hyundai’s 2026 Ioniq 6 gains sharper styling, cabin tweaks, and a new N Line variant—while the full-fat Ioniq 6 N is teased with dual motors, likely sharing the Ioniq 5 N’s 641 hp (478 kW) and 2.8 second 0–60 mph sprint.
Nissan sold 2,154 Zs in Q1—more than five times Toyota’s 421 Supras—thanks to surging demand, updated pricing, and stronger showroom momentum than rivals like the BMW Z4 and Subaru BRZ.
From the 1987 Oldsmobile Aerotech to the 2004 Chrysler ME Four-Twelve, this retrospective spotlights bold American hypercar concepts that pushed design and performance but never reached production.
With new tariffs disrupting supply chains, Stellantis plans 5,000 layoffs and temporary shutdowns, while industry groups warn of rising vehicle prices and long-term impacts on both imports and exports.
Ford and Stellantis are offering employee pricing deals to boost sales ahead of looming tariff-related price hikes, with Ford’s program running through June and Stellantis ending April 30.
Top Gear’s Stig pilots the 850 kg (1,874 lb), 350 hp (261 kW) Tuthill 911K—a featherweight, flame-spitting Porsche with an 11,000 rpm redline—around the test track in a thrilling 1:22.5 lap.
Stellantis halted Charger and Pacifica production in Canada and Jeep lines in Mexico, prompting 900 layoffs as it responds to sudden U.S. tariff hikes on imported vehicles and parts.
Edmunds Cars compares the new 6,000 lb Charger Daytona EV to the old-school V8 Challenger, finding the EV faster but unpredictable and less fun on track, while the V8 delivers honest thrills.
Top Gear’s Stig pilots the 850 kg (1,874 lb), 350 hp (261 kW) Tuthill 911K—a featherweight, flame-spitting Porsche with an 11,000 rpm redline—around the test track in a thrilling 1:22.5 lap.
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