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- Great Kia Heist, McMurtry Smashes Record, Lotus Turmoil
Great Kia Heist, McMurtry Smashes Record, Lotus Turmoil
PLUS: Wild Jeep Concepts, Mazda v Tesla, Audi Screen Recall
2025-04-14
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Releases & Reviews
[The Straight Pipes] The Rivian R1S Gen 2 impresses with its tri-motor configuration delivering 850 horsepower (634 kW) and robust performance on varied terrains. The review highlights refined interior design, updated LED accents, and a responsive air suspension system.
The Mini Cooper S Convertible balances spirited driving with everyday usability. Its turbocharged 2.0L inline-four produces 201 horsepower (150 kW) and 221 lb-ft of torque (300 Nm), while the dual-stage top and agile handling enhance its sunny, playful appeal.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
GM is temporarily halting production of its BrightDrop EV van at the Ontario CAMI plant, leading to 1,200 workers being laid off until production resumes in October 2025. The move aims to balance inventory and align output with current market demand while retooling for the 2026 model year.
Lotus is restructuring operations and laying off up to 270 employees amid volatile market conditions and US tariffs. Following a $200 million loss in H1 2024, the firm plans closer collaboration with its Chinese partner, Geely, to secure future profitability.
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Car Culture
The McMurtry Spéirling, a 1,000bhp (746 kW) marvel, shattered a 20-year lap record with a 55.9-second run. The breakthrough performance, beating its predecessor by 3.1 seconds, underscores its revolutionary fan-assisted technology.
Car and Driver reveals that new ownership will preserve Willow Springs International Motorsports Park while upgrading trackside amenities and safety features. Planned enhancements like a tech hub and museum will protect its historic racing legacy while evolving the visitor experience.
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Miscellaneous
Over 900 engines were illicitly removed from a Kia factory in India in an alleged inside job spanning five years. An ongoing investigation targets employees after a routine audit at the facility revealed significant inventory discrepancies.
Autoblog details a high-end collaboration on the Panigale V4 Lamborghini superbike, which borrows design cues from the Revuelto. Featuring forged aluminum wheels and carbon fiber components that save about 5 pounds (2 kg) from its standard 413-pound (187 kg) weight, the bike starts at $78,400.
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Quick Links
The 2025 Mazda EZ-60, built with Changan, impresses with its 79.97 kWh battery offering a 295-mile (474 km) WLTP range and 93 kW fast charging, positioning it as a formidable EV competitor.
The 2026 Subaru Trailseeker EV teaser hints at a compact off-road SUV with power options from 165 horsepower (123 kW) to 338 horsepower (252 kW) and flexible battery capacities, with full details to emerge at the New York Auto Show.
Ford’s Bronco Sport Sasquatch, equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecoboost producing 250 horsepower (187 kW) and 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque, impresses with robust off-road capabilities including firm suspension travel and improved approach angles.
Audi recalls 44,000+ 2021 models due to defective digital gauge clusters triggered by a flawed cable, with a software update remedying excessive sensitivity and preventing unnecessary display shutdowns, ensuring safer driving.
Top Gear analyzes the 25 per cent US car tariff, noting European makers like Audi and JLR face steep cost hikes while US-based Tesla, Rivian, and Ford enjoy competitive advantages from localized production.
A federal committee challenges strict EPA and DOJ enforcement on diesel tuning, highlighting a case where penalties, including a $3.1 million fine and lengthy probation, may be eased to support small aftermarket businesses.
savagegeese’s review shows that the RAM RHO trades the supercharged V8 for a refined Hurricane inline 6 delivering 540 horsepower (403 kW) and towing capacity of nearly 8,300 lb (3760 kg), boasting a smoother gearbox and robust chassis.
Hagerty's Capturing Car Culture takes viewers on a 19 minute watch through the UAE's gritty JDM scene, where passionate restorer Ibraham bin Safan Alsamsi revives iconic models including the Hakosuka GT-R amid extraordinary desert challenges.
Brandan Gillogly outlines seven eye-catching Jeep concepts at the 2025 Easter Jeep Safari, from the lightweight Bug Out 4xe to the retro Convoy and Gladiator-inspired builds, offering imaginative design and enhanced off-road capability.
Alanis King's piece recounts a rare personal encounter with the $3 million Mercedes-AMG One, featuring a 1,000 horsepower (746 kW) F1-inspired power unit, quirky badge details, and unexpected electric start-up moments.
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