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Ford's Maverick, Stellantis Shake-Up, CEO's All In
PLUS: Big Tariff Hit, Miata > Z, Murano Improvements
2025-04-09
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Releases & Reviews
Ford updates the Maverick with a hybrid powertrain and new all-wheel drive option for XL and XLT trims, while the Lobo model features performance upgrades like lowered suspension and enhanced brakes. Its 191 hp hybrid (142 kW) and optional 250 hp turbo engine (187 kW) deliver spirited driving and efficiency.
Doug DeMuro reviews Porsche’s first hybrid 911 featuring a 3.6 L flat-6 and electric motor for a combined 535 hp (399 kW) and 450 lb-ft (610 Nm) torque. It accelerates 0–60 mph in 2.9 seconds thanks to a single turbo.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
A Stellantis strategy review could lead to splitting Alfa Romeo and Maserati amid crippling 25 percent tariffs. Reports indicate declining sales—Alfa dropping 10–15 percent and Maserati halved volumes—compelling layoffs and production pauses in North America, with McKinsey advising on potential restructuring. The move may reshape Italian brand synergies.
A market study reveals 97% of drivers favor integrated in-car payment systems for tolls, parking, and EV charging. Ease of registration and clear notifications are vital, with most consumers preferring at-home setup over dealership registration. OEMs may seize this opportunity to boost connected services.
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Car Culture
Carwow pits the lightweight Ariel Atom 4R against the BMW M4 Competition in a quarter-mile drag race. The Atom, with 406 hp (303 kW) at 1,469 lb (665 kg), narrowly beat the M4’s 530 hp (395 kW) at 3,920 lb (1,775 kg), clocking 11.1 versus 11.2 seconds.
Jay Leno’s Garage revisits a 1957 Volkswagen Beetle restored to near-original condition with modern upgrades like four-wheel disc brakes and a 1600cc engine delivering 90 hp (67 kW). Jay Leno recounts its storied history and hands-on transformation while retaining classic styling and nostalgic charm.
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Miscellaneous
Ford CEO Jim Farley candidly admits he has 'no life' outside of the company, juggling constant work and a quirky passion for bidding on collector cars. His frank remarks reveal the relentless demands of managing a major auto firm.
Genesis contemplates retiring the entry-level G70 as the brand shifts upmarket, focusing on models like the G80, G90, and GV80. The strategic move aims to elevate brand equity despite the G70’s $44,000 appeal and critical role in attracting first-time luxury buyers.
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Quick Links
Nissan slashes its Z sports car price to roughly $40,000 through dealer incentives while offering a 400 horsepower (298 kW) twin-turbo V6 and 350 lb-ft (475 Nm) torque, positioning it as a value rival to the Mazda Miata.
During its San Diego track test, the Lobo’s 250 horsepower (186 kW) engine and 277 lb-ft (376 Nm) twin-clutch differential deliver nimble all-wheel-drive performance, blending upgraded cooling and handling with an affordable price point.
Lamborghini emphasizes that the Urus, with a combined output of 789 horsepower (589 kW) and 701 lb-ft (952 Nm) torque, is designed to deliver super sports car dynamics, firmly ruling out any three-row SUV that would compromise its signature performance.
Partnering with Boreham Motorworks, Ford revives its legendary Escort RS with modern carbon-fiber enhancements and precise engineering, offering an exclusive, limited series model priced around $375,000 that captures classic rally spirit with subtle performance upgrades.
Acura's Integra Type S HRC Prototype sheds 200 pounds from its 3,200-pound curb weight (1,450 kg), while enhanced cooling, 15-inch upgraded brakes, and manually adjustable suspension deliver a focused track feel without sacrificing daily drivability.
The 2025 Nissan Murano is reengineered with a 2.0-liter turbo-four producing 241 horsepower (180 kW) and 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) torque, a refined nine-speed automatic, and upscale features like massaging seats, although fuel economy remains modest.
In a fresh twist to international trade, the EU pressures India to slash tariffs from over 100% to as low as 10%, a move that could boost European brands like Volkswagen while challenging domestic carmakers in India.
A new forecast predicts that Trump's 25% auto tariff could slash US and Canada sales by 1.8 million units over the next decade, while Audi holds 37,000 vehicles to safeguard supply amid trade tensions.
Audi launches its 'Sport Racing Legends' division to sell vintage race cars, starting with a 456 bhp (341 kW) RS 5 DTM and a 720 bhp (537 kW), 627 lb-ft (850 Nm) R18 e-tron celebrated for endurance victories.
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