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- 604HP AMG Wagon, Analog Comeback, Hammond’s Hot Take
604HP AMG Wagon, Analog Comeback, Hammond’s Hot Take
PLUS: Chicken Tax?, BMW Shark Nose, Robotaxi Hype
2025-04-10
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Releases & Reviews
The 2026 Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid wagon marries a turbocharged 3.0L inline-six with an electric motor, delivering up to 604 horsepower (451 kW) and 553 lb-ft torque (750 Nm) in Race Start mode. It reaches 60 mph in 3.8 seconds and 174 mph (280 km/h), featuring adaptive dampers.
The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona redefines performance as a grand tourer rather than a muscle car. It delivers 670 horsepower (500 kW) and 627 lb-ft torque (851 Nm) from dual electric motors, achieving 0–60 mph in 3.3 seconds. Its refined handling and high-tech regenerative braking enhance comfort on long drives.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Tariffs from China, including a 104 percent increase on imports, are set to raise prices on car parts and tools, impacting DIY repairs and shop services. Additionally, Canada’s retaliatory tariffs and Foxconn’s aggressive EV export plans illustrate shifting global dynamics in the automotive industry.
Hyundai’s design chief predicts a revival of analog controls in cars within one to two generations, offering a balanced approach to digital interfaces. He suggests mainstream vehicles will reduce large touchscreen dependency while luxury models maintain them alongside voice controls for enhanced safety.
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Car Culture
Ferrari may reintroduce a manual gearbox for its Icona series, offering a nod to enthusiasts despite the trend towards automatics. The potential return of the gated shifter would require limiting torque—for example, reducing outputs near 530 lb-ft (720 Nm)—to ensure manageable clutch demands, catering exclusively to high-end buyers.
Richard Hammond takes a nostalgic journey into his automotive past, recounting early memories of riding a two-stroke motorcycle and cherished first experiences with motoring. His engaging storytelling mixes humorous reflections and technical insights, capturing the spirit of being a true petrolhead.
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Miscellaneous
Cadillac announces the discontinuation of the XT6 SUV amid a realignment of its product portfolio. Declining sales and the focus on newer electric and refreshed models underpin the decision, as production ends later this year.
Jeremy Clarkson argues that Formula 1 should eliminate tracks where overtaking is challenging, such as Suzuka and Monaco, to enhance race excitement. He points to the influence of corporate sponsorships and TV viewership on track selection, suggesting that fan engagement should dictate circuit choices.
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Quick Links
Hagerty details the advanced engineering of the GT Super, which pairs a full carbon-fiber chassis with a 670-hp (499 kW) engine and bespoke design elements that reimagine classic Alfa Romeo aesthetics.
Through a satirical lens, the piece envisions the classic E-Type’s revival not only as an economic stimulus to stabilize financial markets and FTSE recovery, but also as a quirky solution to climate change.
TopGear's first look reveals the Smart #5 Brabus as a striking e-SUV featuring a 637bhp (475 kW) all-electric powertrain, a 100kWh battery with 336-mile (541 km) range, rapid 18-minute charge, and a top speed of 130mph (209 km/h).
Hagerty's deep dive explains the century-old Chicken Tax—a 25% tariff originally imposed amid mid-1960s poultry trade disputes—that reshaped US truck manufacturing and import strategies, with impacts still felt today.
US road fatalities dropped 3.8% in 2024, with deaths falling to 39,345 compared to 40,901 in 2023, yet rates remain above the pre-pandemic level of 2019 safety benchmarks.
BMW’s Skytop, a production roadster built on the M8 platform, features a 617-hp (460 kW) 4.4L bi-turbo V8.
Despite initial promises, driverless multi-passenger shuttles remain limited to controlled tests by players like Waymo, Zoox, Oxa, and MOIA, with broader deployments yet to materialize due to high development costs and regulatory hurdles.
BFGoodrich’s g-Force Phenom T/A, designed with dual-zone grip technology for enhanced wet traction, delivers confident performance on challenging circuits while fostering trust among track enthusiasts.
MotorTrend’s long-term BMW M2 review lauds the car’s engaging dynamics on curvy mountain roads, powered by a 473-hp (353 kW) twin-turbo I6 and a precise six-speed manual that transforms traffic frustration into driving pleasure.
TheStraightPipes’ review shows the 2025 Cadillac Escalade’s 6.2L V8 delivering 420 hp (313 kW) and 460 lb-ft (624 Nm) of torque, while smart suspension and advanced luxury tech enhance its performance and appeal.
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