As folks in the United States enjoy a long holiday weekend, consider for a moment what the world was like almost 29 years ago as this MotorWeek retro video returns us to the 1995 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It opened to the public on January 7, promising a glimpse into the future of motoring.
Simmer on that thought as we give you a quick summary of what was happening in Motown back then. The 1996 Ford Taurus debuted in all its jellybean glory, featuring more curves and oval shapes than a full season of NASCAR. It was as bold a design move as the first-generation Taurus was a decade prior, but with the benefit of hindsight, we know the risk did not pay off. A quick facelift for 2000 couldn’t help the former best-selling sedan, and a second update in 2004 merely prolonged its suffering. The nameplate was awkwardly revived in 2009 as part of the Ford Five Hundred’s facelift, but alas, the Taurus never reclaimed its former glory.
That was arguably the big debut for the show, but it wasn’t the only reveal by far. A new-generation Dodge Caravan flew into the show, and we mean that literally. Dodge had quite the display set up for the minivan, which boasted new styling and rear seats that were easily removable – a big deal for the day. It was joined by upscale Plymouth Voyager and Chrysler Town & Country variants, none of which exist today. There was at least one accurate prediction for the future, however. General Motors launched four-door versions of the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon SUVs.
What about concepts? Some might call the ’90s a golden age for such vehicles, where even a minivan could get some cool cred. Ford’s SHOstar concept plugged the epic 220-horsepower Yamaha-sourced 3.0-liter V6 from the Taurus SHO under the hood of a Windstar. It never entered production, but the front-wheel-drive van did get a SHO-like intake manifold for its 3.8-liter V6, making 200 hp from 1996 through 1998.
The big concept news for 1995, however, was undoubtedly the Ford GT90. We recently waxed poetic about this car, packing a big V12 with edgy styling that pointed towards the future. The actual Ford GT we got a few years later didn’t have a V12, nor did it have much in the way of sharp lines. But other FoMoCo machines did get sharper. The SN95 Ford Mustang facelift in 1999 even garnered the name New Edge. Other Ford concepts included the two-seat Lincoln L2K and the Triton pickup, the latter of which was a thinly veiled preview of the 10th-generation F-150.
The Blue Oval certainly had a big presence in Detroit, but there was much more happening at the show. Oldsmobile showcased its updated Bravada SUV and the Antares concept, a snazzy sedan that lent its influence to the 1997 Oldsmobile Intrigue. Acura yanked the roof off the first-generation NSX and previewed the CL with the CL-X concept. The Plymouth Backpack concept looked like a weird Suzuki X90. The Eagle Jazz was a sleek sedan concept that never came to fruition, nor did the 1930s-themed Chrysler Atlantic.
These Are The Cars That Depreciate The Most
Depreciation is among the most essential elements to think about when buying a brand new automotive. The final thing you’d wish to see is your massive buy shedding a bunch of worth shortly after driving off the lot. iSeeCars analyzed information from over 1 million automotive gross sales from November 2022 to October 2023 and found which autos depreciate essentially the most. No surprises right here: Luxury manufacturers endure essentially the most in the case of worth over time.
1. Maserati Quattroporte
Average depreciation after 5 years: 64.5 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $90,588
Luxury sedans are identified for shedding tons of worth over time, so it is not stunning to see the Maserati Quattroporte on prime of iSeeCars’ lists, shedding a whopping 64.5 % of its worth on common after 5 years. We suspect the less-than-excellent long-term reliability and Chrysler switchgear have so much to do with the Quattroporte’s prime place.
2. BMW 7-Series
Average depreciation after 5 years: 61.8 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $72,444
The BMW 7-Series’ look on this checklist proves the larger they’re, the more durable they fall. The flagship four-door from Bavaria loses a staggering 61.8 % of its worth over 5 years on common, in keeping with iSeeCars. That’s worse than something from Mercedes-Benz or Audi; proof that polarizing design and the newest tech can solely get you thus far.
3. Maserati Ghibli
Average depreciation after 5 years: 61.3 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $58,623
The Maserati Ghibli shares so much with its larger sibling, the Quattroporte, leading to a equally atrocious depreciation curve. iSeeCars found that Ghiblis appears 61.3 % of their worth on common after 5 years. While that is dangerous information for consumers of recent Ghiblis, it is nice information for many who wish to lower your expenses on an Italian efficiency sedan by shopping for second-hand.
4. BMW 5-Series Hybrid
Average depreciation after 5 years: 58.8 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $37,975
Luxury sedans dominate the depreciation race due to the BMW 5-Series—particularly the hybrid model, in keeping with iSeeCars. According to the information, the 5-Series hybrid loses 58.8 % of its worth on common after 5 years. That’s an enormous drop for what is a reasonably regular car, particularly a trim that will get the perfect gasoline mileage out of the lineup.
5. Cadillac Escalade ESV
Average depreciation after 5 years: 58.5 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $63,885
Despite the posh nameplate, it’s kind of of a shock to see the Cadillac Escalade ESV so excessive on this checklist. While it’d sport the newest tech and a number of the highest-quality supplies, the long-wheelbase Escalade continues to be a utilitarian SUV beneath, with loads of room for seating and cargo. Plus, it may possibly tow over 8000 kilos. Despite its usefulness, the Escalade ESV loses 58.5 % of its worth after 5 years on common.
6. BMW X5
Average depreciation after 5 years: 58.2 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $44,828
The X5 is among the finest autos BMW makes proper now, however that hasn’t made it depreciation-proof. According to iSeeCars, the X5 loses 58.2 % of its worth after 5 years on common, placing it proper up there with its hybridized 5-Series sibling. If you are available in the market, we advise shopping for used to keep away from taking the worth hit your self.
7. Infiniti QX80
Average depreciation after 5 years: 58.1 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $47,399
The Infiniti QX80 shares most of its structure with the cheaper Nissan Armada, however makes use of a distinct fascia and fancier supplies inside. Being from a luxurious model we’re not terribly shocked with the QX80’s 58.1 % common depreciation over 5 years, regardless of its capabilities as a tow-capable SUV.
8. Maserati Levante
Average depreciation after 5 years: 57.8 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $55,858
The Levante beats its sedan siblings on the depreciation curve just because its SUV physique fashion is extra helpful. Of course, the Levante continues to be fairly horrible within the grand scheme of recent automobiles, having a median of 57.8 % of its worth misplaced after 5 years, in keeping with iSeeCars. If there’s on lesson you must stroll away from after studying this checklist, it is to keep away from shopping for Maseratis brand-new.
9. Jaguar XF
Average depreciation after 5 years: 57.6 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $39,720
Jaguars often lag behind their German counterparts in the case of residual worth, and the corporate’s 5-Series competitor, the XF, is a chief instance. According to iSeeCars’ analysis, the XF loses 57.6 % of its worth after 5 years on common. That’s an enormous depreciation hit for a automotive that’ll very probably be somebody’s solely car. Buying used as a substitute is an effective guess, although we advocate purchasing for a guaranty as properly.
10. Audi A7
Average depreciation after 5 years: 57.2 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $48,917
The Audi A7 is among the prettiest four-doors on sale at the moment. The automotive’s beautiful appears have not been ready to reserve it from the German model’s heavy depreciation curve, although, as iSeeCars studies a median of 57.2 % loss in worth over 5 years. Being the second or third proprietor might be a great way to get into A7 possession with out taking such an enormous depreciation hit, although all that superior tech is pricey to maintain working as soon as the guarantee runs out. So take warning.
11. Audi Q7
Average depreciation after 5 years: 56.8 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $41,731
Audi’s greatest SUV, the Q7, follows intently behind the corporate’s A7 four-door, with iSeeCars discovering a median loss in worth of 56.8 % over 5 years. You can keep away from that loss by shopping for used, although we advise steering away from fashions outfitted with the optionally available air suspension and four-wheel steering, as these methods can rapidly change into costly to take care of because the car ages.
12. Cadillac Escalade
Average depreciation after 5 years: 56.5 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $59,093
The regular-length Cadillac Escalade joins the long-wheelbase ESV as one of many autos that depreciates most, however seems far additional down the checklist, shedding 56.5 % of its worth on common after 5 years, in keeping with iSeeCars. That’s nonetheless properly over half its authentic worth—an enormous hit contemplating the Escalade’s excessive beginning value.
13. Audi A6
Average depreciation after 5 years: 56.3 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $38,252
The Audi A6 shares the overwhelming majority of its underpinnings with the A7 fastback larger up on this checklist, so it is no shock to see it seem right here as properly. Even the perfect German luxurious sedans cannot keep away from massive depreciation hits as soon as they depart supplier heaps, and in keeping with iSeeCars, the A6 takes a success to the tune of 56.3 % after 5 years on common—brutal.
14. Volvo S90
Average depreciation after 5 years: 55.8 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $35,365
The Volvo S90 is not German, however it’s nonetheless a extremely complicated, massive sedan from a European nation. As iSeeCars has found, the market would not discriminate, with the S90 shedding 55.8 % of its worth after 5 years on common. You’d suppose a automotive with such timeless appears and fantastic inside design may maintain its worth, however you would be fallacious.
15. Nissan Armada
Average depreciation after 5 years: 55.7 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $36,875
The Nissan Armada’s capabilities as a three-row SUV that may do all of it are unmistakable, however in contrast to a few of its opponents, it is not as well-known for long-term reliability. That probably explains the hunch in worth after 5 years on common—55.7 % to be exact, in keeping with iSeeCars.com.
16. Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Average depreciation after 5 years: 55.7 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $70,563
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the perfect luxurious sedan there’s, however that may’t assist it from tanking in worth as time goes on. Though it is not as dangerous as its BMW-badged rival, the S-Class nonetheless suffers from a a number of 55.7-percent drop in worth after 5 years on common, in keeping with iSeeCars.com.
17. Lincoln Navigator L
Average depreciation after 5 years: 55.5 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $57,224
The Lincoln Navigator L’s depreciation curve is proof that even if you happen to keep away from shopping for from a European model, a luxurious nameplate will drag you down. The long-wheelbase body-on-frame SUV takes an enormous 55.5-percent hit in worth after 5 years on common, in keeping with iSeeCars.com. If you actually need one, we advise going used as a substitute.
18. Mercedes-Benz GLS
Average depreciation after 5 years: 55.5 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $54,523
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is the corporate’s greatest SUV, full with commonplace three-row seating and as much as 7700 kilos of towing capability. There’s additionally commonplace all-wheel drive and air suspension. We suspect the flamboyant springs and slew of different tech options might be the explanation why worth drops by 55.5 % on common after 5 years, in keeping with iSeeCars.com. That stuff cannot be low cost to exchange as soon as it goes dangerous.
19. Tesla Model S
Average depreciation after 5 years: 55.5 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $60,145
Electric automobiles generally tend to crater in worth just because expertise is evolving so rapidly. What was as soon as the most recent and most superior powertrain tech might be wildly outdated by the subsequent yr. Tesla might routinely replace the tech beneath the Model S’s pores and skin, however there isn’t any hiding that ageing design. iSeeCars.com studies a median 55.5 % loss in worth over 5 years.
20. BMW 5-Series
Average depreciation after 5 years: 55.3 %
Average value distinction from MSRP: $39,856
The hybridized BMW 5-Series is not the one model of the corporate’s sedan to make this checklist. The regular 5-Series follows behind with a 55.3-percent depreciation hit after 5 years on common, in keeping with iSeeCars.com. With loads of expensive-to-replace elements and soon-to-be-outdated tech inside, we’re hardly shocked.
Ford GT Mk IV Only Used 700 HP Instead Of 800 HP At Track Debut
It’s almost been a year since Ford unveiled the ultimate version of its mid-engine supercar. In early December 2022, Ford unveiled the GT Mk IV, a track-exclusive version of the V6 EcoBoost beast. The car made its public debut at the Velocity Invitational event at the Sonoma Raceway in California, where spectators had the opportunity to witness the uncorked GT in action.
This model is an evolution of the Mk II, which was introduced in mid-2019 for $1.2 million. The Mk IV is even pricier, with a staggering sticker price of $1.7 million. Interestingly, despite its high price, Ford has received more orders than the 67 units it plans to produce, and potential buyers are being selected through a hand-picking process.
Vehicles Contribute To Only 17% Of Total Air Pollution: Supreme Court On Postponing The Odd-Even Rule In Delhi
The Delhi government will consider implementing the odd-even rule after Diwali
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With the rise of air pollution, Delhi became the most polluted city in the world.
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The previous implementation of the odd-even rule reduced pollution by 13 percent.
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It was first used in 2016 and if implemented after Diwali, it will be its fourth use.
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Delhi government also plans to use artificial rain to tackle the rising AQI levels.
Like a twisted annual ritual, the air quality of Delhi, our national capital, deteriorated to such an extent that it became the most polluted city in the world. The Air Quality Index (AQI) level was rated as ‘Hazardous’ for several consecutive days. To address the worsening conditions, the Delhi government planned to reintroduce the odd-even rule from November 13 to 20. However, after a hearing at the Supreme Court, the decision was made to postpone its implementation.
What Is The Odd-Even Rule?
The odd-even rule was first implemented in 2016 in an attempt to counter the high levels of air pollution in Delhi during the festive period. Under this rule, people were allowed to take their cars out on alternate days based on the last digit of their car’s registration number. Cars with odd numbers were allowed on the roads on odd dates, and cars with even numbers were allowed on even dates.
The purpose of this rule is to reduce the number of cars on Delhi’s roads, thereby decreasing tailpipe pollution. However, the rule applies only to four-wheeler passenger vehicles using petrol or diesel, not CNG cars, bikes, and commercial vehicles.
Reason Behind Postponing It
When the odd-even rule was proposed for 2023, the matter was taken to the Supreme Court to assess its validity considering the inconvenience it causes to citizens versus the benefits for commercial mobility providers. During the hearing, the government presented a report indicating that the previous implementation of the odd-even rule had reduced air pollution by 13 percent. However, the court pointed out that the report also states that vehicles contribute only 17 percent to the total pollution in the city, raising doubts about the effectiveness of the 13 percent reduction in the larger context. The benefits of this policy may not be sufficient to justify impeding the freedom of the people.
Other Reasons
Additionally, the region’s air quality has improved in recent days, partly due to rain showers, with the AQI dropping from over 450 to around 300. This improvement led the Delhi government to postpone the odd-even rule until after Diwali, at which point the situation will be reassessed to determine if the policy needs to be implemented to curb pollution.
The Supreme Court has also urged the Delhi government to pursue other efforts to reduce air pollution in the city. The government is also planning to use artificial rain to bring pollutants to the ground and make the air cleaner. Individuals can also contribute by using vehicles only when necessary and opting for public transport, thus further reducing pollution caused by tailpipe emissions.
Mercedes-AMG SL 63 Tested in Moose Test and Slalom
When buying a pricey Mercedes-AMG SL 63, most buyers probably don’t consider its ability to avoid a moose. However, KM77.com performed this evaluation along with a slalom test to assess the vehicle’s handling.
The slalom test was conducted first, with the driver trying out the SL 63 in both Comfort and Sport+ driving modes. The car performed well in both modes, but Sport+ offered better results. It provided quicker acceleration, more responsive gear changes, and allowed the driver greater control with the electronic stability assists.
2025 BMW X3 Spotted in the US with Sporty M Performance Design
BMW is working on the next-generation X3 crossover, and recent spy video shows the M Performance variant, possibly named the M50i, being tested on American roads.
The upcoming model is still covered in camouflage, but it is expected to borrow design elements from other newly released BMW models. While the production headlights are visible, the taillights are hidden beneath the camo. The quad tailpipes hint at a more powerful engine for this crossover.
Honda CB200X Gets a Refresh for the 2023 Model-Year in India
While in the US, motorcycles with a 200cc engine are considered small, in countries like India, bikes with engines larger than 300cc are considered “big bikes”. Due to the densely populated and traffic-laden roads in India, these bigger bikes are more suitable. However, they also come with a higher price tag. To cater to the Indian market, manufacturers often offer smaller-displacement versions of popular bike models. One such example is the Honda CB200X, which is a smaller version of the larger Honda CB500X.
Although the concept of a small-displacement adventure bike may not seem practical to some, it makes perfect sense in India. These bikes, like the CB200X, are ideal for comfortably covering long distances, especially considering the less-than-ideal road conditions in the country. The CB200X has been refreshed for the 2023 model-year and shares the same platform as the Honda Hornet 2.0 naked bike, but with all the characteristics of an adventure motorcycle.
Under the hood, the CB200X is powered by a 184.4cc, air-cooled, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine. Although it may not be known for its performance, as it only produces 17 horsepower and 11.2 pound-feet of torque, it is designed for longevity and reliability. For the 2023 model-year, the engine has undergone minor tweaks to the exhaust system and now complies with OBD-2 standards. The power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a manual five-speed gearbox, which now features a new slipper clutch.
In terms of its chassis, the Honda CB200X features a steel perimeter frame, inverted front forks, and a preload-adjustable rear monoshock suspension. It is equipped with front and rear disc brakes, but has rudimentary single-channel ABS. The bike rides on 17-inch tires front and rear, with tire sizes of 110/70 and 140/70 respectively.
For pricing and availability, Honda has slightly increased the price of the 2023 CB200X, which now retails for Rs 146,999 (approximately $1,767 USD). The price increase of Rs 2,499 ($30 USD) is relatively small, especially considering the updates the model has received.
Mini electric racing series being considered
Mini is currently reviewing the possibility of launching an electric motorsport program in the future, with the condition that it aligns with the brand’s core values.
The famous British automaker has recently rebranded its iconic three-door hatch as the Mini Cooper. This decision pays homage to the success of John Cooper’s performance models during the 1960s, which included notable victories in the Monte Carlo Rally.
Although Mini supported a World Rally Championship endeavor in 2011, the company’s recent motorsport focus has been mainly on the one-make Mini Challenge.
During the Munich Motor Show, Mini CEO Stefanie Wurst was asked about future plans. In response, she stated, “Considering our limited budgets, we need to be creative. We are evaluating which platforms we can genuinely participate in to highlight the go-kart feeling and the electric future of our brand.”
Wurst continued, “We have two options. Firstly, we can expand the Mini Challenge format to new markets in the future. Secondly, we can participate in one of the new electric platforms. This is the decision we need to make.”
She added, “We need to determine the type of engagement that suits us best. If we choose to stick with the Mini Challenge, we will have to export it more extensively. Currently, it is available in the UK and Japan, but major markets like China are missing out. I would like to establish a more unified strategy.”
BMW M2 Breaks Nurburgring Record for Compact Cars
The Nurburgring, commonly referred to as “The Green Hell,” is renowned for being the ultimate test of a car’s performance. The 14.2-mile Nordschleife section of the track challenges a vehicle’s speed, handling, and braking capabilities to their absolute limits. Completing a lap in under eight minutes places a car among the very fastest. In the hands of Jorg Weidinger, the latest BMW M2 achieved an impressive time of 7 minutes and 38.71 seconds.
For perspective, the previous M2 Competition managed a lap time of 7 minutes and 52.36 seconds, making it over 13 seconds slower than the current model. The M2 Competition delivers 410 horsepower, whereas the 2023 iteration produces an improved 460 horses. The new car also boasts enhanced acceleration, going from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds compared to the older model’s 4.1-second time. Furthermore, the top speed of the 2023 M2 reaches 177 mph.
Makita Vs Ryobi: Which Cordless Circular Saw Is The Better Buy?
When choosing a cordless circular saw, it’s important to consider whether you already have any cordless tools from either Makita or Ryobi. Each tool manufacturer has its own battery system, categorized by voltage output. Using batteries of the same brand and voltage allows for interchangeability and eliminates the need for multiple chargers.
Makita and Ryobi both offer 18V Lithium Ion batteries, but Makita’s LXT battery system is known for its sophistication. According to TheSawGuy, LXT is more efficient, reliable, and has better longevity. It features Star Protection Computer Controls that protect against overload, over-discharge, and overheating. Makita’s saws also have a built-in fan system to prevent motors and batteries from overheating. Additionally, LXT batteries are compatible with some unique cordless tools offered by Makita that other brands don’t produce.
On the other hand, the Ryobi One+ system is not bad and has been found sufficient for many users’ needs. However, those who require long hours of cutting without recharging may find Makita’s LXT a better choice.