Anthony Fongaro
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Posts posted by Anthony Fongaro
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Last year, Mazda brought back the rotary engine for the MX-30 EV crossover. Unlike before, the rotary engine now serves as a range extender in a serial-hybrid configuration. Mazda also showed off the beautiful Mazda Iconic SP Concept, which has a rotary engine working as a generator to charge the batteries. Now, Mazda is leaning into rotary engine technology again with a dedicated team. This "RE Development Group", previously disbanded in 2018, has 36 engineers to develop a next-generation rotary engine for EV use.
The last rotary-engine Mazda was in 2012 for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM)-exclusive RX-8 Spirit R, and teased it again in the 2015 Mazda RX-Vision Concept. However, Mazda isn't looking to use the rotary in pure internal combustion vehicles. Instead, they are aiming for "attractive cars that excite customers with our challenger spirit."
There is a chance that something similar to the Iconic SP coupe will lead into production. At the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon last month, Mazda President and CEO Katsuhiro Moro is quoted as saying: "I am very happy and deeply moved by all the support and encouragement I have received for the compact sports car concept. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all. With your encouragement, we are launching a rotary engine development group on February 1 to move closer to this dream."
A press release in February 2024 makes it clear that the rotary engine in the Iconic SP is only a generator. Unlike past RX models, future Mazda vehicles, such as the Iconic SP, use a two-rotor engine that powers up a battery. Rotary engines can run on gasoline, hydrogen, and renewable fuels. Although Mazda hasn't released the size of the battery pack, it can be charged from a domestic socket. Although producing the Iconic SP would take at least a few years, this would be Mazda's 13th vehicle to have a rotary engine.
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Ford has discontinued the Edge SUV, and the last one will be out the factory doors on April 26, 2024. The union representing workers reported this information while Canada's Unifor 707 broke the news to members, stating, “As communicated by the Plant Manager, the last Edge is scheduled to be built on April 26th.”
This isn't a surprise since reports came out last year that the Edge, Escape, and Transit Connect compact could be discontinued. Ford's Transit Connect is no longer available in the U.S. market. What doesn't help the Edge is the overlap in Ford's lineup, sitting alongside the three-row Ford Explorer and off-road-focused Ford Bronco. The Edge's platform mate, the Lincoln Nautilus, was dropped for a year while an all-new Lincoln Nautilus waits in the wings to arrive in dealerships later this year.
All Edge trims except the top Ford Edge ST come with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. All-wheel-drive and an eight-speed automatic accelerate the Edge to 60 MPH in 6.6 seconds. The top-of-the-line Edge ST has a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V6, producing 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic and all-wheel-drive propels the ST to 60 MPH in 5.6 seconds. Pricing of the 2024 Ford Edge starts at $39,960 for the SE and up to $48,700 for the ST.
Debuting in 2017, the current Edge went through the years with minimal changes. Other than evolving the Edge Sport to the Edge ST in 2019 and a bigger infotainment system in 2021, the majority of the interior remains the same. The recent trend in rugged-looking square-body SUVs makes the rounded and smooth Edge look dated. With the Edge now gone, reports suggest the Ontario plant that builds the Edge might be updated to produce electric vehicles (EVs). A long wheelbase version on a new platform called Edge L will live on in China.
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BMW's M4 Competition, with its three-liter twin-turbo inline-six, already has a lot of power, clocking in at 503 horsepower. For 2025, BMW decided to add more power to the xDrive all-wheel-drive trim for 2025, bumping it up 20 to 523 horsepower. For comparison, non-Competition trims of the Rear-wheel-drive M4 use the same three-liter twin-turbo inline-six producing "just" 473 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque while the more powerful rear-wheel-drive Competition makes 503 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque.
With the six-speed manual transmission, the standard M4 coupe accelerates from 0-60 MPH in 4.1 seconds, while more powerful rear-wheel-drive Competition can achieve this in 3.8 seconds. Since the horsepower bump is meager, the M4 xDrive coupe and convertible have the same 0-60. The M4 Competition xDrive sees 60 MPH in 3.4 seconds, while the convertible achieves this in 3.6 seconds. With the optional M Driver's Package, the top speed increases to 180 MPH for the coupe and 174 MPH for the convertible.
0-60 times:
- M4 Coupe RWD - 4.1 seconds
- M4 Competition RWD - 3.8 seconds
- M4 Coupe Competition xDrive - 3.5 seconds
- M4 Convertible Competition xDrive - 3.6 seconds
Exterior changes include a new headlight LED design, and the taillights receive a new laser-accented design. For a bolder look, a new M Design exterior graphic that puts stripes on the hood and trunk lid in black or red. This includes an M logo on the hood and accent lines around the exterior.
The interior contains a new steering wheel with a flat-bottomed rim and comes in M Alcantara finish for the first time. BMW has integrated the latest iDrive 8.5 infotainment system in the new M4 with a 14.9-inch touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital cluster. Also standard is BMW's Live Cockpit Professional, which contains navigation and an M-specific heads-up display.
2025 BMW M4 prices have increased. A base M4 coupe starts at $80,095, and the rear-wheel-drive Competition costs $84,195. The M4 Competition coupe costs $89,295, with the more expensive Competition xDrive convertible coming in at $96,295.
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On January 29th, 2024, South Korea reported on the EV4 from Kia Vice President Woo-Jeong Woo during a conference call. Kia plans on launching their EV3 in the first half of 2024 while the EV4 will now launch in early 2025. During the 2023 Kia EV Day in October 2023, Kia announced the launch schedules of these two. EV4 was planned to be released before the end of 2024
In the conference call, Vice President Joo stated “Electric vehicles are the biggest influence on Kia’s sales and profits. We plan to flexibly respond to market changes in the medium to long term. The EV3, EV4, and EV5 will be launched sequentially, and we are determined to make these three models successful.” Although Kia has not stated about the delay, they may be waiting to enhance EV4 quality.
From the EV3 to EV5, they will use Kia's E-GMP electrical vehicle platform. EV3 is positioned as a small SUV, the EV4 as a compact sedan, and the EV5 as a compact SUV. Kia has announced that the EV3 to EV5 will cost from around $35,000 to $50,000, respectively. An update to the Gwangmyeong Plant 2 for electric cars has been completed after eight months of work. For now, there are no details about EV4's specifications, but it is likely to be front-wheel-drive. These inexpensive vehicles may use a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and a 400V system.
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After ten years, Porsche has redesigned the Macan. This time, the German sports car brand unveiled the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo Evs. While the Macan 4 produces 402 horsepower, the Turbo makes 630 horsepower. Those are much bigger numbers compared to the internal combustion engines (ICE).
The new Macan EV has underpinnings co-developed with Audi. This platform is called Premium Platform Electric (PPE) with an 800-volt electrical architecture which will be used on the upcoming Audi A6 and Q6 EVs. Later on, an all-electric Cayenne could use this platform.
Porsche uses batteries with Lithium-Nickel Manganese Cobalt with a new capacity of 95 kWh and 100 kwH gross. The Taycan was the first vehicle to utilize 800-volt electrical architecture which reduces copper usage and gives faster charging speeds. Hooked up to an 800-volt DC charger, the Macan can charge up to 270 kW. Plugging in at a 400-volt charger activates the battery pack sensor, splitting the batteries charging in parallel. This helps to reduce charging time.
Porsche's Macan 4 and Turbo use permanent-magnet synchronous motors at each axle, and the rear motor is turned 180 degrees for better rear-biased weight distribution. The combined power for the Macan 4 is 402 horsepower and 479 lb-ft, while the Macan Turbo has 630 horsepower and 833 lb-ft. Both vehicles achieve these figures with an "over-boost" feature, which can be used with Launch control. Macan 4 gets from 0-60 MPH in 4.9 seconds, while the Turbo gets the job done in a scant 3.2 seconds. The top speed for the Macan 4 is 136 MPH and the Macan Turbo is 161 MPH.
These acceleration and top-speed runs were accompanied by a single-speed gearbox, while the Taycan uses a two-speed gearbox. Unfortunately, the Macan is similar to the Taycan, lacking one-pedal driving. The majority of regenerative braking comes from the brake pedal. There are no official EPA figures, but the Macan can regenerate up to 240 kW of energy in braking depending on the state of charge.
Porsche gave the new Macan EV multi-link suspension front and rear. A double-wishbone setup is at the front while the upper wishbone split into two links, moving the steering axis further outboard. Air springs and Porsche Active Suspension (PASM) adaptive dampers are standard on both trim levels. The Macan can now get optional rear-wheel steering which turns the rear wheels up to five degrees depending on speed. Driving at slower speeds turns the rear wheels in the opposite direction while quicker driving turns the rear wheels in the same direction.
Since Porsche's designs are more evolution, the Macan EV keeps a few design cues from the ICE Macan. While the proportions and silhouette remain almost the same, the front end gets Taycan0like daytime running lights (DRLs). Headlights move to the front bumper along with a lower hood line with a shallow frunk. This can be used to haul around charging cables and small items. With a deployable rear spoiler, flaps both in the front fascia and underbody paneling, and other aerodynamic elements, the Macan has a coefficient of 0.25.
Macan's interior is similar to the Porsche Cayenne and Panamera. Inside is a digital gauge cluster with a curved display and a wide-screen infotainment system that plays Spotify and YouTube. Optional is a passenger display along with an augmented reality (AR) heads-up display. Route planning with charging stops has been updated in the infotainment system. There is a lot of technology, but Porsche has kept the tried-and-true physical controls for HVAC and a volume knob.
If you're interested in a Macan EV, you'll have to pony up more than the ICE version. The Macan 4 starts at $80,450, almost $19,000 more than the base gas-powered Macan. Turbo models start at $106,950, or $18,500 more than the top GTS trim level. These are some steep increases in price and are much costlier than its competition. Still, the entry to an electric Porsche drops from $92,550 for a base rear-wheel-drive Taycan to the Macan 4.
Gas-powered, first-generation Macans will continue production in the US. Due to new EU cybersecurity regulations, production of the ICE Macan in the EU has ended, however, Porsche is allowed to sell through the remaining inventory of the previous generation ICE Macan. With the Macan 4 and Macan Turbo, Porsche is one step closer to their goal of full electrification of their models.
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It's not even the end of January and Ford is already doing recalls. Ford was the leader of recalls in 2023 with 58 recalls and 6.1 million units. With this recall of 1.8 million Explorers in the United States and 2.2 million globally, Ford has already recalled one-third of its total vehicles recalled in 2023. Earlier this month, Ford recalled the Ford EcoSport and Focus with the 1.0-liter Ecoboost engine for engine failure. This latest recall is due to trim pieces that can come off while driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), recall number 24V-031 is because "some of the exterior A-pillar applique trim clip attachments are not properly engaged due to improper assembly or repairs". Ford Explorers from 2011 to 2019 are affected, and those clips that "are not properly engaged" can lead to trim pieces flying off the SUV.
Although Ford states there haven't been injuries or accidents from this, there are many incident reports. Ford identified 568 Vehicle Online Questionnaire reports and 14,337 warranty reports for the A-Pillar trim detaching or missing.
The report says Ford conducted an investigation back in 2018 per the NHTSA. It was deemed to be "not an unreasonable risk to safety due to the low mass/geometry of the part with NHTSA alignment." In February of
A Ford spokesperson stated: "Ford issued a recall Jan. 22 on certain 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles for potential A-pillar trim detachment. We expect only 5 percent of the vehicle population to be affected and encourage customers to contact their dealership for an inspection when parts are available. At that point, customers will have free access to mobile repair and pick-up-and-delivery services at participating dealerships."
Thankfully, the fix is straightforward. Ford dealers will inspect the Explorer's A-pillar trim and either repair or replace the part if it's not securely fastened. Owners will be notified at the beginning of March, and concerned customers can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and use the reference Ford recall number 24S02 for more information.
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It's not even the end of January and Ford is already doing recalls. Ford was the leader of recalls in 2023 with 58 recalls and 6.1 million units. With this recall of 1.8 million Explorers in the United States and 2.2 million globally, Ford has already recalled one-third of its total vehicles recalled in 2023. Earlier this month, Ford recalled the Ford EcoSport and Focus with the 1.0-liter Ecoboost engine for engine failure. This latest recall is due to trim pieces that can come off while driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), recall number 24V-031 is because "some of the exterior A-pillar applique trim clip attachments are not properly engaged due to improper assembly or repairs". Ford Explorers from 2011 to 2019 are affected, and those clips that "are not properly engaged" can lead to trim pieces flying off the SUV.
Although Ford states there haven't been injuries or accidents from this, there are many incident reports. Ford identified 568 Vehicle Online Questionnaire reports and 14,337 warranty reports for the A-Pillar trim detaching or missing.
The report says Ford conducted an investigation back in 2018 per the NHTSA. It was deemed to be "not an unreasonable risk to safety due to the low mass/geometry of the part with NHTSA alignment." In February of
A Ford spokesperson stated: "Ford issued a recall Jan. 22 on certain 2011-2019 Ford Explorer vehicles for potential A-pillar trim detachment. We expect only 5 percent of the vehicle population to be affected and encourage customers to contact their dealership for an inspection when parts are available. At that point, customers will have free access to mobile repair and pick-up-and-delivery services at participating dealerships."
Thankfully, the fix is straightforward. Ford dealers will inspect the Explorer's A-pillar trim and either repair or replace the part if it's not securely fastened. Owners will be notified at the beginning of March, and concerned customers can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and use the reference Ford recall number 24S02 for more information.
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On Tuesday, Volkswagen debuted the refreshed 2024 Golf. This renowned hatchback receives an updated exterior and revised interior. The GTI also receives mild styling changes and a more powerful engine.
European GTIs have an updated 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 261 horsepower, an increase of 20 horsepower. GTIs will still be front-wheel-drive, but Volkswagen killed off their six-speed manual. This leaves VW's seven-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic.
Exterior changes include different headlights, a lower grille opening with upward-slanted accents, and taillights. Other changes include a thinner reverse light, a C-shaped bracket, and six internal markers. The GTI can be optioned with a contrasting black roof option along with 15 exterior colors. S and SE trim levels get 18-inch wheels, while the Autobahn gets 19-inch wheels.
Volkswagen revised the interior of the GTI with the needed changes. The GTI's steering wheel reverts from capacitive buttons to regular buttons. Its infotainment touchscreen is larger and improved. There are now illuminated touch sliders for the air conditioning and volume controls.
For now, the American 2024 Golf GTI makes 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft. Although Volkswagen has not shared information about the US-bound GTI, there are expectations that these updates will be found in 2025 models. Unfortunately, that means this is the last year a GTI with a manual will be available. If you want a GTI with a manual, act now before they become extinct.
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The parent company for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and RAM announced details of the new STLA Large platform. Stellantis says this flexible architecture will underpin vehicles at Dodge and Jeep later this year. Confirmed by Jeep, the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S EV will arrive this fall. Dodge released a few teaser images of the 2025 Charger on social media, saying it will be "available later 2024"
Since these announcements started last week, it isn't surprising that Stellantis revealed the STLA-L platform. This will underpin six unspecified vehicles from Alfa Romeo, Maserati, and Chrysler. Interestingly, STLA Large can accommodate hybrid and internal combustion powertrains. The EV platforms will be available with either a 400- or 800-volt architecture. Reports online say the Dodge Charger will be offered as an EV and an ICE possibly with the Hurricane 500+ horsepower twin-turbo 3.0-liter straight-six.
Keeping with engines, STLA-L supports transverse and longitudinal engine layouts and limited-slip differentials. Stallantis points out that STLA-C can handle "extreme power that will outperform any of the existing Hellcat V8s". Since Dodge's Challenger SRT Demon 180, the swan-song for the Challenger makes 1,025 horsepower, there could again be Challengers with over 1,000 horsepower. Jeep's Wagoneer S has 4xe capability with all-terrain management, advanced Jeep brand-focused technology while producing 600 horsepower with 0-60 MPH in around 3.5 seconds.
Stellantis is providing two battery capacities from 85.0 to 118.0 kWh, although we don't know if that is net or gross capacity. These EVs have a targeted driving range of 500 miles for sedans with an 800-volt architecture. These estimates are for the more optimistic WLTP test, so the real range should be around 425, still very impressive. Stellantis says that it will use silicon carbide for the semiconductor material which is used to minimize power loss. Porsche does the same with its PPE platform in the upcoming Macan EV. Over-the-air (OTA) updates will allow these powertrain performance upgrades during the course of the vehicle's life. There will have next-generation technology will include STLA Brain, STLA SmartCockpit, and STLA Drive.
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The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) created a rule last year to help consumers against unfair practices and fees. Known as the Combating Auto Retail Scams (CARS), this was supposed to take effect on July 30th, 2024. Now, lobbyists were able to get this paused indefinitely.
This new development of CARS was fought by the National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA) and the Texas Automobile Dealers Association. They filed a petition with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals and challenged the law. The Court agreed with NADA and the Texas Automobile Association to stop CARS from happening.
One of the biggest issues with this legal battle concerns if the FTC has the jurisdiction to impose this. Both dealership groups called the rule "an abuse of discretion" which they used in court to stop the rule from being implemented. The FTC agrees, saying the rule "does not impose substantial costs, if any" for non-shady dealerships. They guarantee a more even playing field for consumers and dealerships by eliminating hidden costs and junk fees.
If the courts decide to rule for the FTC, the FTC thinks the CARS rule will be delayed by a few months. This means CARS could be enacted before 2025. Even with the FTC fighting and possibly winning this, dealerships have pressured Congress to make laws removing the FTC from regulating car sales. If a dealership breaks the rules, they would have a violation of $50,120.
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Electric cars have great acceleration, but they can seem dull to drive. Hyundai didn't get that memo when creating the 640-horsepower Ioniq 5 N. They tout that the Ioniq 5 N is truly fun and a "corner rascal". Piloting the Ioniq 5 N at the Nürburgring was Sport Auto's test driver, Christian Gebhardt.
Gebhardt has driven both the Ioniq 5 N and last-generation BMW M2 CS. The Ioniq 5 N completed a time of 7 minutes and 49.59 seconds, only 2.6 seconds slower than the BMW. Back in 2020, Gebhardt completed a time of the Nordschleife in 7 minutes and 42.99 seconds. Hyundai used Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires, while the last-generation M2 CS had Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s. With all that power, the Ioniq 5 N hit speeds up to 163 mph on the straights.
Comparing a sports car with an electric crossover doesn't happen often but comparing the two times is interesting. There is a larger gap between the Ioniq 5 N and the current M2, with a time of 7 minutes and 38.17 seconds last year. In the next few years, there will be a quicker M2 CS that will be quicker around the 'Ring.
Since Hyundai also has the Ioniq 6, there's a chance they will create an Ioniq 6 N. Hyundai's RN22e concept car looks to be a preview of a production model. This could be quite the quick electric sedan with a lower center of gravity and better aerodynamics. BMW's M division is working on a high-performance M3-like sedan. This should arrive in the latter half of the decade with an X3-sized crossover.
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Recently, there has been a shift in BMW's sales plans. Walter Mertl, BMW's Chief Financial Officer, said they have hit the tipping point for internal combustion engines (ICE) and will focus more on electric cars. Mertl also says that ICE vehicle sales have plateaued and will start to decrease. This is due to changes in environmental regulations with stricter or zero emissions. Regulations from China, the European Union, and the United States are causing automakers to expedite creating and producing electric vehicles (EVs).
In 2023, 15% of BMWs sold globally were EVs. Their most popular model was the i4 M50 for the second year in a row. BMW is targeting a 33% share by 2025 and will unveil six vehicles under the Neue Klasse EV lineup. The first vehicle, an X3-sized EV SUV, is expected to arrive in 2025. Mertl did acknowledge that BMW's profit margins for EVs and ICE vehicles won't align until at least 2026. One of the factors Mertl pointed out included the higher costs associated with new battery technology.
Although BMW is shifting towards an all-electric brand, they still want owners to have fun driving a manual. BMW confirmed that the M2, M3, and M4 will keep their manual gearboxes for the current generation. In 2023, 15-20% of M3 and M4s had a manual gearbox, while the M2 was closer to 50%.
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Selling 10,000 cars in a year can seem like a small achievement. For automotive companies in the highest echelons, that number is a significant milestone. Delivering 10,112 vehicles worldwide in 2023, Lamborghini broke through the 10,000 vehicle sales mark for the first time since it was founded in 1963. Selling exactly 3000 cars, the United States was Lamborghini's biggest market. Canada received 357 cars. Germany was the second biggest market with 961, while China came third at 845 units. Lamborghini's home market of Italy came in eighth place with 409 cars delivered.
What makes this more impressive is that Lambo only had two models for 2023. Unsurprisingly, the Urus SUV was the top seller with 6,087 sales. Huracán sales represented 3,962 with 63 being the last Aventadors. The total includes the last 112 of the Countach LPI 800-4 hypercar. Lambo's replacement for the Aventador, the Revuelto, was launched too late in the year to have any production numbers. Revuelto uses a V12 with plug-in-hybrid power to make around 1,000 horsepower.If you want a Revuelto, you're out of luck. Unless you already have one on order, Lambo says the Revuelto is sold out for the next three years. While the Huracán is bowing out at the end of this year, there will be a facelifted Urus. It should use the same twin-turbo V8 producing 729 horsepower found in the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid. Ferrari and Bentley sold 13,221 and 15,147 vehicles, respectively. At the top of the food chain, Rolls-Royce, sold a little over 6,000 cars, at 6,032.
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If you've played a video game, most likely you used a controller. With the introduction of BMW's iDrive 9 infotainment system at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), things are going to change. Customers will be able to do the same later in the year. Customers can play video games in BMW models with the AirConsole app introduced earlier this year. Users can download games and use their smartphone as a controller. This is only possible when the car is stationary. BMW's iDrive 9 will be able to play video games with full-size controllers from PlayStation and Xbox
This in-car gaming will be accessible through the ConnectedDrive Store along with other third-party apps. These are possible due to the Android-based software integrated into iDrive9. Customers do have to pay for the BMW Digital Premium option. If a new model is sold without the controller feature, BMW will send the update out via over-the-air (OTA) update.
BMW showcased its iX RC car parking itself within certain parameters and situations. Valeo, a mobility-focused tech company, said drivers could leave their vehicles at a designated drop-off location and the car will both search for an open spot and return when summoned. This Level 4 autonomous system can be controlled with a remote control. A pair of augmented-reality glasses called "XREAL Air 2", provides the driver and passengers with information supplemented by BMW's displays.
A demonstration for the AR glassed showcased Las Vegas and showed points of interest (POI), navigation, and entertainment features. BMW's iDrive 9 showcases a myriad of new technology and features but isn't their first augmented-reality system. They previewed this technology in 2015 with the Mini Augmented Vision project. It seems that BMW is heading head-first into gaming, augmented reality, and remote-control valet parking.
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Lexus has finally put the GR Yaris and GR Corolla's three-cylinder engine in one of their vehicles. This time around, the engine is in the LBX, an upgrade to the Yaris Cross. The full name is the Lexus LBX Morizo RR. The LBX was launched last year, with this version of the LBX creating 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. This debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon as a concept car.
The LBX is smaller than the UX in the United States but is significantly more powerful. Toyota gave the Lexus the Morizo moniker, something interesting since that's the nickname of Toyota's chairman, Akio Toyoda. Although the GR Corolla comes with a six-speed manual transmission, this version of the LBX comes with a new eight-speed automatic transmission.
The torque-converter gearbox also debuted at Tokyo Auto Salon in the 2024 GR Yaris. The LBX's transmission uses all transmission to all four wheels. Lexus has given the LBX Mirozo RR 19-inch wheels, a wider body, and stiffer suspension. There's a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear. As a nod to Akio Toyoda's favorite color, there are many yellow accents. As of now, Lexus has not said if they would put the LBX Morizo RR into production or if they intend to keep it a concept car.
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It looks like Ford has another recall. This time, Ford's 1.0-liter EcoBoost is in the crosshairs. It's being recalled in various 2018-2022 EcoSport SUVs and 2016-2018 Focus models with the tiny three-cylinder. This engine could suffer a loss of engine oil pressure due to a defect with the oil pump drive belt tensioner. The recall says that the belt tensioner arm may fracture because the retention caulk joint isn't strong enough to withstand engine vibrations. If this happens, the tensioner could separate from the backing plate and cause the belt to degrade by losing teeth. The tensioner could separate from the backing plate and cause the belt to degrade by losing teeth.
From this, the engine might lose oil pressure which could damage the engine. If you are driving, there may be a loss of engine and braking, which could to an accident. Ford does know of one crash allegedly similar to this issue with two injuries but no fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened up an investigation into nearly 250,000 EcoSports for reports of alleged engine failure in 2018-2021 models in September.
This engine has been under scrutiny since 2022 when NHSTA began the investigation into the Bronco. NHTSA expanded this "catastrophic engine failure probe" in 700,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. The 2.7-liter and 3.0-liter EcoBoost are found in the Ford Edge, Explorer, and F-150 along with the Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus. Total number of the affected EcoSport and Focus models is 139,790. Last year, Ford remained the automaker with the most recalls at 56, affecting 5.6 million cars. That's less than in 2022, when Ford issued 68 recalls for 8.5 million cars.
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Vietnamese automaker VinFast has been creating a lot of buzz. They launched the VF8 in the United States last summer, and their larger VF9 SUV should come later this year. Although the VF8 did not meet journalist expectations, VinFast is expanding its lineup. This week at CES in Las Vegas, VinFast unveiled two different vehicles. The first is their first pick-truck concept, the VF Wild. Meanwhile, a production-ready subcompact VF3 SUV.
Styling-wise, the VF3 looks strikingly similar to the much-loved Suzuki Jimny. The VF3 is 125.6 inches long, 66.1 inches wide, and 63.8 inches tall. This would make it the smallest car sold in America. The VF3 features VinFast's V-shaped chrome trim on the front and rear along with chunky wheel arches. This comes with 16-inch wheels and decent ground clearance. Although there are no specs, VinFast is aiming for 125 miles of range.
Inside is a four-seater cabin with a minimalistic design. There is a single 10-inch infotainment system behind the steering wheel and has both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. When folding the second row of seats, the cabin expands to 19.4 cubic feet. VinFast debuted the VF3 in Vietnam in June 2023, but the global debut was at CES. For now, the timing and deliveries of the VF3 depend on different markets. A spokesperson told Automotive News that the VF3 could be less than $20,000. If that is true, this would be the cheapest EV in the United States.
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Mercedes-Benz's MBUX infotainment system already comes with a plethora of features along with their large Hyperscreen display. At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Mercedes displayed the new systems they wanted to implement. Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be integrated into the native system and its voice recognition. This system will use a more empathetic tone which, according to Mercedes, is capable of sarcasm.
A combination of ambient interior lighting and haptic feedback embedded in the seats helps the AI get your attention. The system can learn your daily routes and access information from the driver's calendar. It can also make suggestions for your route. If you're running late for work or a meeting, it could offer to call into the meeting virtually.
Along with the software updates are updates to gaming. Thanks to partnering with Antstream Arcade, users can play vintage games from Nintendo, Sega, and Atari. Mercedes worked with Sony Pictures Entertainment for films and TV content. This will be accessible via the Ridevu app. Drivers in California, Nevada, and Germany will be able to its level 3 autonomous driving system.
Mercedes also announced partnerships with Amazon Music and Audible to stream audio content, audiobooks, and podcasts. These will be integrated into MBUX and created to work with Dolby Atmos' spatial audio system. Audible's "audio movies" collection has actors including James McAvoy, Michael Sheen, and Gillian Anderson.
Out of the ordinary, MBUX will gain a feature to display NFTs and a concept called Sound Drive. This allows drivers to play their Mercedes like a musical instrument. Mercedes collaborated with rapper and music producer will.i.am for Sound Drive. The system utilizes the throttle, brakes, regenerative brakes, and steering input to determine which song to play. Sound Drive produces an array of songs from calm to high-energy. As the driver speeds up, the tempo will increase. Slowing down decreases the intensity.
During his presentation of Sound Drive, will.i.am stated: "I can't think of another dimension of creativity. Yes, the sample was important in the 1980s and 1990s. Yes, the computer was awesome . . . but this is a dimensional shift in the process.” Sound Drive will appear on Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG vehicles starting in mid-2024. It will be available via an over-the-air (OTA) update for vehicles with Mercedes' second-generation MBUX system.
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At the start of the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Volkswagen will show off something interesting. Volkswagen will integrate ChatGPT into its existing IDA voice assistant. This will be offered on vehicles such as the ID electric vehicles, Tiguan, and Passat.
Open AI's ChatGPT won't replace what Volkswagen currently offers. Instead, it will be utilized as a backup assistant if Volkswagen's IDA doesn't have an answer. Theoretically, you could ask your car random questions with ChatGPT to come up with an answer. Volkswagen hasn't given details for how much involvement ChatGPT will have, but a press release says it can "provide relevant responses to nearly every query imaginable."
Volkswagen has worked out how secure the integration will be. ChatGPT doesn't gain access to your vehicle data, so personal information shouldn't be compiled. Questions are "deleted immediately" so any personal questions won't be kept. ChatGPT integrates with VW's current infotainment system and uses the same voice.
Kai Grünitz, a member of Volkswagen's Board of Management for Technical Development, said: "Volkswagen has always democratized technology and made it accessible to the many. This is simply ingrained in our DNA. As a result, we are now the first volume manufacturer to make this innovative technology a standard feature to vehicles from the compact segment upwards."
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Look back to the year 2008. Fuel prices are at the point where customers are flocking to smaller and more economical cars. The automotive and financial worlds are in crisis. January 2008, Dodge debuted their new Ram 1500 at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, Michigan. That truck is still on sale and is now 16 years old.
That fourth-generation truck, which was still a Dodge, is still available for sale. Ram doesn't have a configuration set up yet. There are two trim levels for the Ram 1500 Classic. A work-friendly Tradesman trim and a more robust Warlock trim. Tradesman 1500 Classics offers buyers a single-cab/lob box layout, along with Quad and Crew Cab configurations. The Warlock trim can be had in a Quad or Crew cab.
That can be some changes to the 2024 Ram 1500 Classic, but they're probably minor since this is a 16-year-old platform. Standard for both trim levels is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with 305 horsepower and 269 lb-ft. An optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 produces 395 horsepower and 410 lb-ft. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic.
An older 7.0-inch touchscreen is in the center stack with a more analog cabin. There's a plethora of buttons and knobs where newer trucks use capacitive buttons or the touchscreens. Pricing should be similar to the 2023 Ram 1500 Classic. The Tradesman starts at $34,340 for a Regular Cab eight-foot box and rear-wheel-drive. The 1500 Classic costs about $6,000 less than the regular 1500. Old tech and a reliable Hemi V8 in the Ram 1500 Classic is a good choice for local government officials, the military, and contractors.
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2023 sales figures for Nissan show that they sold 898,796 over 22 models. One car is an outlier: the company's flagship GT-R. Somehow, 390 of Nissan's supercar-fighting GT-R were sold. That is an incredibly high increase of 584% compared to 57 GT-Rs sold in 2022.
Speculation as to the boost in sales can be attributed to the 2023 refresh. New GT-Rs have a new fascia both front and rear for better aerodynamics. Nismo models now come with a front limited-slip differential. There's a new T-Spec trim that combines the engine of the regular GT-R with NISMO suspension, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a widened body. Two new colors include Millennium Jade and Midnight Purple.
This sounds odd since the GT-R has been around for almost 20 years with minor changes. It still uses the same drivetrain since 2007. For the past eight years, the 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 produces 565 horsepower and 467 lb-ft. With the same six-speed dual-clutch automated manual and AWD, the GT-R gets from 0-60 MPH in 2.9 seconds. Premium GT-Rs start at $122,885. T-Spec trim levels cost $142,885 while the top-dog NISMO model costs $222,885.
In a digital world of EV vehicles and advanced technology, sports car buyers may want a more analog experience. The Nissan GT-R still comes with hydraulic steering which is a rarity, even in the world of supercars. GT-Rs retain physical buttons and it weighs less than a new BMW M2. This may be the final hurrah of the GT-R, but it will be missed. Known as Godzilla, the GT-R still has supercar performance without the price tag.
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Ram 1500s are getting many changes for the 2025 model year. Pricing for the base model is up by $855 compared to last year. A basic Tradesman with the 3.6-liter V6 starts at $42,270. The bigger news includes a fully loaded-trim level called Tungsten and an optional twin-turbo inline-six engine replacing the V8.
Carried over into the 2025 is Ram's 3.6-liter V6 with a 48-volt eTorque hybrid system. You'll find this in the Tradesman, HFE, Lone Star, and Big Bend trim levels. The new "Hurricane" twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six costs an additional $2,695 and comes with 420 horsepower. This engine is standard on the $62,025 Laramie and $66,190 Rebel trim levels. If you opt for a crew-cab configuration and six-foot-four-inch bed, the inline-six is the only option.
In addition to the regular inline-six, there is a high-output version. This produces 540 horsepower and is standard on the $77,150 Limited and $77,645 Longhorn trim levels. The high-output inline-six comes with four-wheel drive, while V6 and normal-output engines come with standard rear-wheel-drive on all but the off-roading Rebel trim level.
At the top of the 2025 Ram 1500's range is the Tungsten. Pricing starts at $89,150 and Tungsten models come with a high-output engine and four-wheel drive. It only comes in crew-cab configuration with a five-foot-seven-inch bed. The Tungsten has an assortment of features including 24-way power front seats with a massage function, power tailgate, upgraded interior materials, and a 23-speak sound system.
Fuel-powered versions of the 2025 Ram 1500 are set to go on sale this quarter. There is no pricing for the Ramcharger, the plug-in hybrid with a combined 663 horsepower. Ram's first EV, the 1500 REV, is set to go on sale by the end of the year. Currently, there is no pricing information for the Ramcharger or REV.
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Automakers have been struggling since 2020 to launch their new vehicles on time. Shifts to creating electric vehicles and the COVID-19 pandemic created large supply chain issues. These issues have increased delays for new vehicles to be launched.
PwC Consulting discovered in a report that 34% of vehicle launches 2023 had production delays. An additional 21% of delays were "due to other factors". PwC did a calculation of production delays with issues such as quality standards, supply chain issues, and workforce situations. They compared actual to planned production dates.
Within this analysis, automaker delays can cost them around $200 million annually. Compare this to 2018, where 5% of launches faced delays and 18% had setbacks from other issues. 2023 saw automakers complete 45% of their launches, the most since 2019. Delays dropped to 30% in 2022 with 39% of production delays.
According to the PwC report, there are several reasons for the delays. These include the advancement of driver assistance systems, various software issues, and more EV vehicle launches. PwC's reports expect that the production setbacks will last until 2026.
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Cummins Inc., the manufacturer of diesel engines, has reached an agreement with the United States and the State of California. The $1.675 billion settlement would be the largest penalty for Clean Air Act Violations. Hundreds of thousands of engines were found with an emission-cheating defeat device. There were 630,000 defeat devices from 2013 to 2019 RAM 2500 and 3500 trucks.
The Clean Air Act requires automakers and engine manufacturers to comply with emission limits. Defeat devices can be hardware or software, which can modify emission tests. Attorney General Merrick B. Garland from The Justice Department issued the following statement:
“The Justice Department is committed to vigorously enforcing the environmental laws that protect the American people from harmful pollutants.
“Today, the Justice Department reached an initial agreement with Cummins Inc. to settle claims that, over the past decade, the company unlawfully altered hundreds of thousands of engines to bypass emissions tests in violation of the Clean Air Act. As part of the agreement, the Justice Department will require Cummins to pay $1.675 billion, the largest civil penalty we have ever secured under the Clean Air Act, and the second largest environmental penalty ever secured.
“The types of devices we allege that Cummins installed in its engines to cheat federal environmental laws have a significant and harmful impact on people’s health and safety. For example, in this case, our preliminary estimates suggest that defeat devices on some Cummins engines have caused them to produce thousands of tons of excess emissions of nitrogen oxides. The cascading effect of those pollutants can, over long-term exposure, lead to breathing issues like asthma and respiratory infections."
Cummins released a statement on Friday, December 22nd, stating Cummins “has seen no evidence that anyone acted in bad faith.” Along with this statement, Cummins said they "fully cooperated" with regulators.
Top Ten Least-Expensive Vehicles of 2024
in Opinion
Posted
With the average transaction of a new vehicle reaching $48,247, buying a new car is quite expensive. And while this price gets higher each year, automakers still make inexpensive vehicles. We compiled a list of 10 models that come in at under $22,000, less than half the average transaction price of a new car. Even though these are the least expensive model year 2024 new cars you can buy, most have a good set of standard features and all come with reversing cameras, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and USB ports as standard. These vehicles are ranked from most to least expensive. For two of them, this is your last chance to buy one new. The Mitsubishi Mirage and Nissan Versa are being discontinued after 2024.
All of the pictures included are of higher trims than the base model. Manufacturers tend not to provide photos of their most basic trims.
2024 Hyundai Elantra SE
Starting Base Price: $21,475
The most expensive of the top 10 cheapest new 2024 cars the 2024 Hyundai Elantra sedan. Base level SE trim starts at $21.475. Elantra features a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. Standard front-wheel drive and a CVT accelerate the Elantra from 0-60 MPH in 8.1 seconds. The 2.0-liter engine returns 32 MPG city, 41 MPG highway, and 36 MPG combined. Alloy wheels are 15 inches with black accent pieces. Screens include a 4.2-inch gauge cluster and an eight-inch touchscreen. Safety features include forward collision avoidance, blind-spot warning, and lane-keep assist.
2024 Volkswagen Jetta S
Starting Base Price: $21,435
At a base price of $21,435, the 2024 Volkswagen S is the second most expensive on this list, but also the most powerful. It comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The base Jetta comes in front-wheel-drive with a standard six-speed manual transmission, the only manual available on this list. Combined, the Jetta hits 60 MPH in a scant 7.1 seconds. This engine returns 30 MPG city, 41 MPG highway, and 34 MPG combined. An integrated light bar in the front grille, black trim around the windows, and 16-inch allow wheels come with the S trim level. Jetta S features an eight-inch digital gauge cluster and a 6.5-inch touch screen. Blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane assist are standard.
2024 Nissan Kicks S
Starting Base Price: $21,050
The first of Nissan's three vehicles on this list is the 2024 Nissan Kicks S crossover, at $21,050. This vehicle comes with a 1.6-liter inline-four, producing 121 horsepower and 115 pound-feet. With front-wheel drive and a CVT, the Kicks get from 0-60 MPH in 9.7 seconds. This engine returns 33 MPG highway, 31 MPG city, and 33 MPG combined. The Kicks features a chrome grille, automatic headlights, and 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers. Both the digital gauge cluster and touch-screen infotainment systems are seven inches. Safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning.
2024 Nissan Sentra S
Starting Base Price: $20,890
Nissan's second vehicle is the 2024 Sentra S, which starts at $20,890. The Sentra S comes with a two-liter inline-four engine producing 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. Utilizing a front-wheel drive and a CVT, the Sentra S gets from 0-60 MPH in 9.2 seconds. Fuel economy figures are 37 MPG highway, 28 MPG city, and 32 MPG combined. Exterior features include halogen headlights, a black grille with chrome accents, and 16-inch steel wheels with full-wheel covers. A 4.2-inch TFT display is in between two analog dials along with a seven-inch touch-screen. Safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and rear automatic braking.
2024 Chevrolet Trax LS
Starting Base Price: $20,400
Chevrolet's 2024 Trax LS starts at $20,400. Powering the Trax is a turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. With the only traditional automatic on this list, the Trax's front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic results in a 0-60 MPH run of 8.8 seconds. Fuel mileage is 32 MPG highway, 28 MPG city, and 30 MPG combined. Standard exterior features include LED headlights, rear spoiler, and black body molding. The driver gets a 3.5-inch TFT display and an 8.0-inch infotainment system. Chevy's Safety Assistant comes with emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision alert.
2024 Kia Soul LX
Starting Base Price: $20,190
Kia's boxy 2024 Soul LX hatchback is the first of two Kias on the list, priced at $20,190. This model has a 2.0-liter inline-four producing 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. With front-wheel drive and a CVT, the Soul gets to 60 MPH in 8.0 seconds. This engine will obtain 33 MPG highway, 27 MPG city, and 30 MPG combined. The Soul S comes with a black and silver grille, adaptive headlights, and 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers. There are fully digital dials along with an eight-inch infotainment system. Safety features include lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, and driver-attention warning.
2024 Kia Forte LX
Starting Base Price: $19,990
The least expensive vehicle in Kia's lineup is the $19,990 Forte LX. Powering the front-wheel-drive Forte is the same 2.0-liter inline-four engine found in the Soul. It produces 147 horsepower and 132-pound feet and is mated to a CVT. Zero to 60 MPH clocks in at 8.1 seconds. Fuel economy is 40 MPG highway, 30 MPG city, and 34 MPG combined. High beam assist, daytime running lights (DRL), and 15-inch steel wheels with wheel covers come standard. Between the instrument cluster is a 4.2-inch TFT display along with an 8.0-inch infotainment system. The Forte has the same safety features as the Soul with lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and driver attention warning.
2024 Hyundai Venue SE
Starting Base Price: $19,800
Hyundai's second vehicle on the list is the 2024 Hyundai Venue SUV. Similar to the Elantra, the base trim level is the SE. Pricing starts at $19,800. The Venue comes with a 1.6-liter inline-four ending producing 121 horsepower and 113 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel-drive and CVT result in a 0-60 MPH in 8.5 seconds. The 1.6-liter engine returns 29 MPG city, 33 MPG highway, and 31 MPG combined. Exterior features include high beam assist (HBA), black grille, and 15-inch allow wheels. The interior comes with an eight-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT gauge display. Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, and forward collision-avoidance assist are standard safety features
2024 Mitsubishi Mirage ES Hatchback
Starting Base Price: $16,695
The penultimate spot for least-expensive vehicles goes to the 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage ES hatchback. Mirage ES comes with a 1.2-liter inline-three engine producing 78 horsepower and 74 pound-feet of torque, the least powerful engine here. A CVT and front-wheel drive combine to take the Mirage ES from 0-60 MPH in 10.9 seconds. This small engine achieves fuel economy ratings of 41 MPG highway, 37 MPG city, and 39 MPG combined. Headlights use halogen lights, while the tail lights are LEDs. Mirage ES rides on 14-inch steel wheels with wheel covers. Interior features include steering wheel audio controls, automatic climate control, and cruise control. There are analog dials along with a 7.0-inch infotainment system. Front collision mitigation, Active Stability Control (ASC), and Hill Start Assist (HSA) are key safety features.
2024 Nissan Versa S Sedan
Starting Base Price: $16,290
As of January 2024, the least-expensive vehicle is the 2024 Nissan Versa S sedan. Versa comes with a 1.5-liter inline-four producing 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. Powering the front wheels with a five-speed manual, the Sentra S gets from 0-60 MPH in 9.5 seconds. Versa returns 40 MPG highway, 32 MPG city, and 35 MPG combined. The exterior features halogen lights, a V-Motion grille with chrome accents, and 15-inch steel wheels with wheel coverings. Along with the Sentra, the Versa S has a small TFT display between the analog dials and a seven-inch touch screen. Versa S also includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and rear automatic braking.
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So, while the vehicle market is still trending towards large crossovers with $48,000-plus price tags, there are still at least ten options for people who want something more affordable, and you don't have to give up your favorite entertainment options and safety features to buy one.
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