2025 VW Tiguan debuts at 2024 Los Angeles auto show
Posted in Reviews Speed

2025 VW Tiguan debuts at 2024 Los Angeles auto show

2025 Volkswagen TiguanVolkswagen has a redesigned Tiguan headed to U.S. showrooms next year The new compact crossover skips the third row of the outgoing model The sole powertrain at launch will be a 2.0-liter turbo-4 rated at 201 hp Volkswagen late on Wednesday revealed its new Tiguan compact crossover for the U.S. market. It makes its formal debut this week at the…

Jaguar EV concept teased ahead of Dec. 2 debut
Posted in General

Jaguar EV concept teased ahead of Dec. 2 debut

Jaguar will unveil a concept car previewing the look of its future electric vehicles on Dec. 2, during Miami Art Week.

The automaker released a teaser image of the concept, called the Design Vision concept, on Wednesday showing a bulging rear fender, but also some more angular elements that appear to be a departure from Jaguar’s current look.

Next-generation Jaguar EV prototype

Next-generation Jaguar EV prototype

The concept will likely most closely preview the first of Jaguar’s lineup, a low-slung grand tourer the automaker has already shown testing in heavily-camouflaged guise. Jaguar previously said a production version would debut in 2025 sporting a six-figure price tag and more power than any previous Jaguar road car, with deliveries starting the following year.

This will be one of three EVs, with the other two expected to be an SUV and a more traditionally-styled sedan. All three will be based on a new platform called JEA (Jaguar Electrified Architecture) and will feature North American Charging Standard (NACS) ports to give drivers access to Tesla Supercharger stations. They’ll comprise the brand’s entire lineup, making Jaguar all-electric after years of hesitation.

2024 Jaguar I-Pace

2024 Jaguar I-Pace

The Jaguar I-Pace was one of the first electric vehicles from an established luxury brand, but Jaguar failed to follow up on it. There were plans to bring the I-Pace into a second generation, as well as launch an all-electric flagship sedan to replace the gasoline XJ, but both were nixed in favor of a clean-slate approach.

Jaguar is also making this all-electric shift very abruptly, discontinuing most of its current gasoline models, as well as the I-Pace. The F-Pace is slated to remain Jaguar’s only model until the new EVs arrive, a situation Jaguar managing director Rawdon Glover has called “hugely frustrating.”

Aston Martin names first drivers for Valkyrie LMH race car
Posted in Reviews Speed

Aston Martin names first drivers for Valkyrie LMH race car

2025 Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH race car testingAn Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH race car is being developed for the top class of the IMSA SportsCar Championship and FIA World Endurance Championship The car will be fielded by the new team Aston Martin Thor, and will start racing in 2025 The team’s first two drivers have been announced Aston Martin on Thursday provided an update on its program…

2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
Posted in Reviews Speed

2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class

2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-ClassWhat kind of vehicle is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class? What does it compare to? As the point of entry to the 2025 Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, the GLA-Class offers solid performance, reasonable comfort, and a taste of luxury, though many features cost extra. Competitors include the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class a good…

BMW Neue Klasse electric SUV enters pre-production status
Posted in General

BMW Neue Klasse electric SUV enters pre-production status

  • BMW’s new electric SUV has entered pro-production status
  • Production is on track for late 2025
  • Initial production will take place in Hungary and Germany, then Mexico will be added to the mix

BMW is now building pre-productions examples of the first of its next-generation Neue Klasse EVs at its assembly plant in Debrecen, Hungary,

This is the “final preparation phase” before the start of series production, which is still on track for late 2025, BMW said. A standard part of the ramp-up of any volume model, the pre-production process allows automakers to test every aspect of vehicle assembly, as well as the attendant logistics processes, to ensure everything is running smoothly.

BMW Group Plant Debrecen, Hungary

BMW Group Plant Debrecen, Hungary

The first Neue Klasse model will be an SUV previewed by the Vision Neue Klasse X concept revealed earlier this year. It will be followed by a sedan based on the Vision Neue Klasse concept first shown in late 2023, with both sporting a minimalist look and tech features like a panoramic head-up display, with a name that honors a family of models from the 1960s that set the template for modern BMWs.

Neue Klasse models also mark a battery shift for BMW to cylindrical cells, which the automaker has said will have a volumetric energy density more than 20% higher than the prismatic cells it currently uses. They’ll combine with an 800-volt electrical architecture to speed up charging by 30%, BMW has said. The automaker has also promised bidirectional charging capability, allowing Neue Klasse EVs to serve as home backup power sources.

BMW Group Plant Debrecen, Hungary

BMW Group Plant Debrecen, Hungary

The Neue Klasse EVs pick up where the formative BMW i3—the automaker’s first dedicated EV—left off, but with designs aimed more at the mainstream and the potential for much higher production volumes. After production gets underway in Hungary, BMW plans to add Neue Klasse models at its main plant in Munich, Germany. Production in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, will then follow in 2027.

Plans for Mexican assembly, which include a new battery-assembly facility, could help Neue Klasse models qualify for a federal EV tax credit in the U.S. But by the time BMW is ready to start building EVs in Mexico, the tax credit may have already been nixed by the second Trump administration.

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 smooths the electric SUV form
Posted in General

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 smooths the electric SUV form

  • Ioniq 9 will seat up to seven, has fully reclining first and second
  • Aims for 335 miles of range, 24-minute 10-80% fast-charging
  • Capable of downloadable Features on Demand, energy sharing

Hyundai’s upcoming three-row EV, the 2026 Ioniq 9, may get closer than any contemporary vehicle to straddling the boundaries between SUV, wagon, and minivan.

Although measuring out to roughly the same size as the Kia EV9, the Ioniq 9 is a completely different form factor—one appearing to be less focused on truck looks and backcountry possibilities, and instead more focused on interior comfort and highway efficiency and range. 

It could shape up as a unique rival to other aero-savvy or non-conventional three-row EV designs, including the Lucid Gravity, Tesla Model X, and Volkswagen ID.Buzz

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

Ioniq 9 styling: Not a boxy SUV

The Ioniq 9 pretty closely follows the shape of the Seven concept from 2021. It pairs a series of linear design aspects—the bitmapped line of lighting across the front, the nearly level beltline crease, and the straight-back lower-body trim—with a roofline and sides that softly taper, extending almost in a boattail shape. 

That results in a coefficient of drag of just 0.269—remarkably good for an SUV, and an asset in providing a projected EPA range of up to 335 miles from just 110.3 kwh. 

The Ioniq 9 is 199.2 inches long—about two inches longer than the EV9. That makes it the largest vehicle yet to be built on its E-GMP dedicated EV platform, which also underpins the Ioniq 5 crossover, Ioniq 6 sedan, Kia EV6 wagon, Kia EV9 SUV, and Genesis GV60 hatchback. 

It rides on a 123.2-inch wheelbase, which is 0.2 inch longer than the EV9’s and the longest of any model from Hyundai. A flat floor, enabled by bypassing worries about locating the fuel tank, exhaust pipes, and more, helps package roomier seating and more cargo space than comparably sized combustion vehicles. 

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

Ioniq 9 interior: Spacious and futuristic

The cabin has a futuristic look, with a “floating dashboard,” slim vents, and ambient lighting. Six two-tone combinations are offered to complement (or contrast with) 16 different exterior colors, and eco-savvy materials are used throughout. 

The front seats have armrests, and a center console allows a walk-through area in front and is in reach of the second row. It can slide back by up to 7.5 inches and has two layers of tray storage, with the lower one sliding. Frunk space—with an electric opener—stands at 1.8 or 3.1 cubic feet (depending if you have a motor up there), while the rear cargo area has 21.9 cubic feet with the second and third rows in place. 

Hyundai notes that the first and second rows can fully recline and have leg rests, “allowing up to four people to rest during vehicle charging,” it says. The Ioniq 9 also has a massage function for the driver seat. 

Camera side mirrors and second-row swiveling seats are feature points included with the auto-show debut, but Hyundai has said they won’t arrive in the U.S. version. 

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

Three Ioniq 9 models, up to 335 miles

The Ioniq 9 will be offered in three configurations: Long-Range RWD, Long-Range AWD, and Performance AWD. All three versions have a 215-hp (160-kw) motor at the rear wheels, but the Long-Range AWD has a 93-hp (70-kw) motor in front while the Performance AWD gets 215-hp motors front and rear. The Long-Range RWD will return that estimated 335 miles, but Hyundai says it aims for more than 300 miles of range for all versions. 

Hyundai quotes a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds for the Performance model, while the two other versions are pegged at 6.2 and 8.4 seconds. It can tow up to 5,000 pounds and includes a towing mode that focuses on a 50:50 torque distribution, varying it as needed. Additional drive modes will include Normal, Eco, Sport, and a customizable MyDrive mode. Sand, Mud, and Snow off-road modes cater to specific terrain types.

The Ioniq 9 rides on a four-wheel independent suspension, with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear, plus self-leveling dampers and vibration-isolating hydro-bushings. It uses torque vectoring for ride and stability. 

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

Ioniq 9 gets serious about aero and noise reduction

Aerodynamics are aided by an active air flap system and flush body panels. It also has a new type of door-closure mechanism that Hyundai says will assure a better fit-and-finish. According to Hyundai, this is also the first model from the automaker to get aluminum fenders and quarter panels, which helps cut weight. Hyundai has said the Ioniq 9 will weigh between 5,500 and 6,000 pounds. 

It also includes an active noise control system that focuses on combating road noise, which can be especially noticeable in EVs. The Bose 14-speaker sound system that’s available includes a so-called e-Active Sound Design feature that creates different EV driving sounds. 

Hyundai also notes that 100-watt USB-C ports are provided in all three rows. Also noteworthy is an available multi-tray UV-C sterilizer that can disinfect phones or masks, though it’s unclear if that feature is coming to our shores. 

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9

Ioniq 9 charging times, energy sharing

With a 350-kw charge connector, the Ioniq 9 can get from a 10-80% charge in just 24 minutes, according to Hyundai. It has vehicle-to-load (V2L) convenience for outputting power through AC sockets—in the cargo area. It will use the NACS (Tesla-style) charge port. 

Charge status is now represented by four green dots on the steering wheel, and Hyundai is introducing a “refined EV Route Planner” with the Ioniq 9, plus “improved battery consistency” and new energy displays.

A 12.0-inch gauge cluster and 12.0-inch infotainment system are set across a curved display. Hyundai has added an expanded AI voice assistant, while it hopes to roll out optional features for download—called Features on Demand—that might include dynamic lighting or music apps. 

The Ioniq 9 has 10 airbags, and improved third-row passenger protection, along with automatic emergency braking, active lane control, blind-spot monitors, and many other active-safety systems. 

Hyundai says that the Ioniq 9 will be launched in Korea and the U.S. in early 2025, with Europe and other markets to follow. Expect starting prices around $60,000, ranging near or past $80,000 for the top Performance version. The Ioniq 9 will be made in Georgia and is expected to qualify for the full $7,500 federal EV tax credit. 

2026 Genesis Electrified GV70 gets more range, NACS port
Posted in General

2026 Genesis Electrified GV70 gets more range, NACS port

  • Electrified GV70 upgrades to an 84-kwh battery pack
  • Likely 250+ miles of range, with 10-80% SOC in about 20 minutes
  • Revamped cabin interface and ambience, dynamic improvements 

Genesis on Tuesday night revealed a substantially updated version of its Electrified GV70 crossover with a larger battery, a Tesla NACS charge port, and a refreshed front-end design. 

It’s part of a refresh for the GV70 lineup, which is Genesis’ top-selling model line. The Electrified GV70 gets a bigger battery pack and more range—a much-needed upgrade, although Genesis isn’t talking numbers quite yet. 2025 Electrified GV70 models came in at an EPA-rated 236 miles. Going from 77.4 kwh up to 84 kwh will surely push this model well past the 250-mile mark. 

At about 186 inches long, the Electrified GV70 doesn’t have obvious direct rivals, but looking upward in size it overlaps with the Cadillac Lyriq, Acura ZDX, and BMW iX. Looking smaller, the XC40 Recharge might be an alternative. 

2026 Genesis Electrified GV70. - NACS port

2026 Genesis Electrified GV70. – NACS port

With the shift to a Tesla NACS port, the 2026 GV70 Electrified will have native support with no need for an adapter at Tesla Supercharger stations. Genesis says that adding NACS will more than double the size of the DC fast-charging network available to Genesis EV drivers—for road trips and more. With the bigger battery, expect 10-80% charge times to increase slightly from the now-optimal 18 minutes (when using a CCS adapter). 

On the outside, the profile and much of the surfacing carry over, but Genesis has pushed up the prominence of the two horizontal lines of light with new multi-lens array (MLA) headlights, and what’s over the NACS port has changed slightly in texture. On gasoline versions there’s a new grille design. 

Down below, the skid plate design is a little bolder, and air intake grilles have been extended up for a slightly more chiseled look around the corner of the vehicle. 

2026 Genesis GV70

2026 Genesis GV70

Genesis says that the cabin follows a “Beauty of White Space” design principle. It includes a completely new dash design focused around a 27-inch OLED screen, with buttons consolidated to an oblong area across the dash.

Strips of ambient lighting run a lap around it all, and door areas have been redone with lighted trim surfaces that really fit the upscale mood. There are four nappa leather color options, including a signature Ultramarine Blue, complementing ten different exterior hues. 

The 2025 model’s dual-motor propulsion system delivered 429 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a boost mode that provided 483 hp in 10-second bursts. The Boost mode button has been moved to a different spot on the 2026 steering wheel, but we anticipate those power numbers to stay the same. 

The GV70 family gets dynamic improvements with a system that better controls front and rear damping forces when accelerating or decelerating. It continues to use forward-facing cameras to read the road surface and adjust accordingly. Genesis also added a new Terrain Mode, with specialized modes for sun, mud, and sand. 

2026 Genesis GV70

2026 Genesis GV70

2026 Genesis GV70

2026 Genesis GV70

2026 Genesis GV70

2026 Genesis GV70

Along with the cabin interface and display changes, Genesis has added hands-on detection for the steering wheel, improved lane assist, and an updated parking assist feature that can do diagonal parking now, too. 

Genesis has been keeping this model updated along the way. The 2025 GV70 Electrified added wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as updated Genesis Connected Services telematics. 

2026 Genesis GV70

2026 Genesis GV70

The GV70 Electrified was the first U.S.-built EV from the entire Hyundai Group, and Genesis says that both the EV and the gasoline version will be “dual-sourced” from its Alabama U.S. plant and one in South Korea. The 2026 Electrified GV70 models will arrive in the first half of 2025. 

Electric Ram Rev delayed to first half of 2025
Posted in General

Electric Ram Rev delayed to first half of 2025

Stellantis is delaying the start of production of the Ram 1500 REV electric pickup truck to the first half of 2025, Reuters reports.

Production was originally scheduled to start before the end of this year, making the REV a 2025 model, but is being pushed back to ensure quality, Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said on a media call with Reuters and other outlets.

“We are just facing a very significant amount of workload,” Tavares said.

2025 Ram 1500 REV

2025 Ram 1500 REV

First shown in 2023, the Ram 1500 REV aims to upstage the Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV, Rivian R1T, and Tesla Cybertruck with up to 500 miles of range, courtesy of a 229-kwh battery pack. A 168-kwh pack will be standard, delivering what Ram estimates to be up to 350 miles of range. And 350-kw DC fast charging can recover up to 110 miles of range in about 10 minutes, Ram has said.

Ram has also confirmed a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain producing 654 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque. It’s promised a 0-60 mph time of 4.4. seconds, a 14,000-pound towing capacity, and a 2,700-pound payload capacity.

2025 Ram 1500 REV at the 2023 New York auto show

2025 Ram 1500 REV at the 2023 New York auto show

Stellantis is also preparing a range-extended Ram 1500 Ramcharger pickup. This uses a 92-kwh battery pack that Ram has said will provide 145 miles of range on its own, while a V-6 engine provides another 545 miles by running as a generator. This truck is also slated to arrive as a 2025 model, but Ram hasn’t confirmed exact timing.

The electrified Ram 1500 trucks are based on the STLA Frame platform, which the automaker just this week provided further details on. It’s the largest of four so-called multi-energy platforms first announced in 2021, and designed to support battery-electric, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen fuel-cell, and internal-combustion powertrains. In addition to Ram trucks, STLA Frame will be used for commercial vehicles and full-size SUVs such as the next iterations of the Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer—which will also get range-extended powertrains.

2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41 edition charges for heritage
Posted in Reviews Speed

2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys ’41 edition charges for heritage

2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41A new trim joins the Jeep Wrangler 4xe PHEV lineup for 2025 The Willys grabs into the heritage handbag for some nostalgia The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys ’41 will cost $61,825 Jeep is giving its Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid a heritage-inspired costume for the 2025 model year. The Wrangler is the modern Jeep closest in spirit to the original…

Jaguar XJS-based TWR Supercat ready for production with 660-hp V-12
Posted in Reviews Speed

Jaguar XJS-based TWR Supercat ready for production with 660-hp V-12

TWR Supercat based on the Jaguar XJSTWR has been revived and its first product is a Jaguar XJS restomod called the Supercat TWR’s modified XJS is powered by a bespoke supercharged 5.6-liter V-12 Pricing for the TWR Supercat starts at $285,000 Tom Walkinshaw Racing was a British motorsports and engineering company with successes in Formula 1 and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. It went under…