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Discontinued Sedans That Need To Make A Comeback

As the crossover SUV and pickup truck segments have continued to develop, manufacturers have been discontinuing more and more sedans to prioritize the demand for bigger autos. While SUVs supply practicality and performance that you may’t get in sedans, they normally battle to match the distinctive driving really feel offered by these four-door automobiles.

The growing demand for crossover SUVs is partially accountable for inflicting manufacturers to discontinue their sedan nameplates. The value of manufacturing on a smaller scale can simply outweigh income, making the choice to take away sure fashions from lineups fairly simple. Tighter emission laws have also led to the more performance-oriented sedans being discontinued, with their generally huge engines now not complying.

In current years, all of those causes have led to the discontinuation of many standout sedans, with some not getting any type of alternative. Here are ten sedans that we would like to see introduced again within the close to future.

In order to provide the most recent and correct info attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Kelley Blue Book, and Car And Driver. The entries on this listing are organized primarily based on the 12 months they have been discontinued, ranging from the newest ones.

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10 Maserati Ghibli

Discontinued In: 2024

Maserati Ghibli Trofeo
Maserati

Only being discontinued in 2024, the long-standing Maserati Ghibli will start to vanish from showrooms throughout the nation. The four-door model Ghibli has been part of Maserati’s lineup since 2013, going by means of three updates earlier than being axed.

2024 Maserati Ghibli Performance Specifications

Engine

3.0-Liter V-6

Transmission

8-speed Automatic

Horsepower

424 HP

Torque

248 LB-FT

Driveline

AWD

0-60 MPH

4.8 Seconds

Top Speed

179 MPH

(Specs sourced from Maserati)

The Maserati Ghibli is being discontinued due to the brand’s shift to electric power. As for the luxurious efficiency sedan’s alternative, the next-generation Quattroporte can be taking its place, powered by electrical energy solely. Maserati has lately modified its plans for the Quattroporte EV, nevertheless, with it now anticipated to be launched in 2028.

Pros

  • Staying unique amongst its opponents
  • Retains the traditional Maserati exhaust sound

Cons

  • The Ghibli has a slight turbo lag
  • The rear seats can really feel cramped

9 Kia Stinger

Discontinued In: 2023

Red 2022 Kia Stinger GT
Kia

While Kia has some of the expansive SUV fleets in 2024, the South Korean model nonetheless provides three sedan fashions, with the upcoming K4 quickly to make that 5. However, from 2017 to 2023, the Kia Stinger was at the top of the brand’s sedan range, providing standout efficiency with strong practicality.

2023 Kia Stinger Performance Specifications (GT2 Trim)

Engine

3.3-Liter Twin-Turbocharged V-6

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

Horsepower

368 HP

Torque

376 LB-FT

Driveline

RWD (AWD non-obligatory)

0-60 MPH

4.6 Seconds

Top Speed

130 MPH

(Specs sourced from Kia, and Car and Driver)

The demand for crossover SUVs performed a big position within the discontinuation of the Stinger, together with Kia’s plan to shift its focus to electrical energy. Subsequently, the all-electric EV6 crossover SUV took the Stinger’s place within the lineup. While the EV6 boasts some mighty spectacular efficiency, the 368-horsepower Kia Stinger was some of the thrilling sports activities sedans on the highway.

Pros

  • The Kia Stinger provides standout dealing with
  • Plenty of consolation within the entrance seats

Cons

  • The journey could be stiff at instances
  • The rear visibility is restricted

8 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53

Discontinued In: 2022

A Silver 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLS 53 Parked
Mercedes-Benz

Before finally discontinuing the mannequin in 2023, Mercedes already began reducing the available CLS options to only a 4MATIC all-wheel-drive trim in 2022. One of those fashions was the AMG-tuned model, which was nonetheless out there in Europe in 2023, however not within the U.S.

2022 Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 Performance Specifications

Engine

3.0-Liter Turbocharged Inline-Six

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic

Horsepower

429 HP

Torque

384 LB-FT

Driveline

AWD

0-60 MPH

4.4 Seconds

Top Speed

N/A

(Specs sourced from Mercedes-Benz)

The Mercedes-Benz CLS was discontinued with no direct alternative. However, the sixth-generation E-Class debuted in April 2023, together with the all-electric EQS turning into a key mannequin within the Mercedes-Benz lineup in 2021. Under the hood of the final 2022 Mercedes-Benz is a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque.

Pros

  • The AMG-tuned suspension results in standout dealing with
  • Coming with strong acceleration for its measurement

Cons

  • The 2022 CLS has six recollects to its title to date
  • The low roofline makes the rear seats really feel cramped

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7 Toyota Avalon

Discontinued In 2022

3/4 action shot of the 2022 Toyota Avalon Touring
Toyota

The main full-size sedan nameplate that Toyota produced from 1995 to 2022 within the U.S. was the Avalon. After nearly three many years, Toyota decided to end the Avalon’s run in 2022 for a couple of predominant causes. One of those was that Toyota was focusing extra on crossover SUVs, which was the primary reason for the decline of the sedan section.

2022 Toyota Avalon Performance Specifications

Engine

3.5-Liter V-6

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

Horsepower

301 HP

Torque

267 LB-FT

Driveline

FWD

0-60 MPH

6 Seconds

Top Speed

116 MPH (authorities restricted)

(Specs sourced from Toyota, and Car and Driver)

In place of the Avalon, Toyota unveiled the Crown, which takes the positives from the outgoing sedan and combines them with the elevated practicality of the SUV. Over time, the Avalon did not obtain the identical quantity of updates as fashions such because the Camry, so it made sense for Toyota to exchange it with an all-new SUV.

Pros

  • Offering ample inside area
  • The controls are intuitive and straightforward to get used to

Cons

  • Its decrease stance could make it tough to get out and in

6 Mazda 6 Sedan

Discontinued In: 2021

Mazda 6
Mazda

The Mazda 6 was one other mannequin that succumbed to the swift rise of crossover SUVs, with the long-standing sedan being discontinued within the U.S. in 2021. So far, with the introduction of SUVs such because the CX-70 and CX-90, there has but to be an official alternative for the Mazda 6, but the all-electric EZ-6 is effectively its successor.

2021 Mazda 6 Performance Specifications

Engine

2.5-Liter Four-Cylinder

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

Horsepower

187 HP

Torque

186 LB-FT

Driveline

FWD

0-60 MPH

8.1 Seconds

Top Speed

N/A

(Specs sourced from Mazda)

It was an enormous disgrace to see the Mazda 6 go, because it was some of the inexpensive sports activities sedans in the marketplace. The final 2022 mannequin had a beginning value of $25,740 and might nonetheless be picked up at this time for a extra inexpensive $21,212 on the used market, as per Kelley Blue Book. Two 2.5-liter four-cylinder engines can be found, and the 2022 Mazda 6’s energy output ranges from 187 horsepower to 227 horsepower.

Pros

  • The Mazda 6 comes with top-quality inside finishes for its value
  • Offering loads of driver help options within the 2022 mannequin
  • The dealing with of the 2022 mannequin has obtained numerous reward

Cons

  • The truck area is restricted
  • The journey could be uncomfortable

5 Subaru WRX STi

Discontinued In: 2021

A White 2021 Subaru WRX STI Parked
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The WRX is likely one of the most iconic nameplates in Japanese automotive historical past, beginning again with the rally-dominating Impreza WRX fashions. In 2014, the Impreza title was dropped, with Subaru beginning the brand new technology of WRX fashions. The Impreza has been brought back for 2024, however the WRX and WRX STi fashions are nowhere to be seen.

2021 Subaru WRX STi Performance Specifications

Engine

2.5-Liter Flat-Four

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

Horsepower

310 HP

Torque

290 LB-FT

Driveline

AWD

0-60 MPH

N/A

Top Speed

155 MPH

(Specs sourced from Subaru)

The predominant purpose for the discontinuation of the WRX STi was the tightening of emissions laws. The trendy iteration of the mannequin was solely produced from 2014 to 2021, with the final mannequin producing 310 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque from a 2.5-liter flat-four engine.

Pros

  • The 2021 WRX STI provides distinctive grip by means of all-wheel-drive
  • Retains the traditional Impreza WRX look

Cons

  • The WRX STi shouldn’t be probably the most environment friendly sports activities sedan

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4 Cadillac CTS-V

Discontinued In: 2019

A gray 2019 Cadillac CTS-V
Car and Driver

When it involves the easiest trendy American sedans, the Cadillac CTS-V competed on the high not simply within the American efficiency sedan section, however internationally, earlier than being discontinued in 2019. While the new CT5-V Blackwing has taken its place, the CTS-V provided one thing totally different.

2019 Cadillac CTS-V Performance Specifications

Engine

6.2-Liter Supercharged V-8

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

Horsepower

640 HP

Torque

630 LB-FT

Driveline

RWD

0-60 MPH

3.7 Seconds

Top Speed

200 MPH

(Specs sourced from Cadillac)

While the CTS-V adopted the sedan philosophy, the aggressive design fashion that leaned extra towards the muscle automotive scene makes us nonetheless miss the CTS-V, regardless of having the extra highly effective CT5-V Blackwing out there in 2024. The final 2019 Cadillac CTS-V is not far behind the CT5-V Blackwing, nevertheless, producing 640 horsepower from its 6.2-liter V-8 and reaching an estimated 200 miles per hour high pace.

Pros

  • The inside high quality has been closely praised
  • Ample driver help options
  • Its ultra-competitive energy output

Cons

  • The rear seats can really feel cramped
  • Truck area is restricted for the 2019 CTS-V

3 Chevrolet SS

Discontinued In: 2017

A Blue 2017 Chevrolet SS Parked
Chevrolet

Keeping Stateside, one other standout American sedan that was considerably lately discontinued is the Chevrolet SS. Known because the Holden Commodore for the Australian market, the efficiency sedan by no means managed to catch on with the American public, regardless of providing standout specs on paper.

2017 Chevrolet SS Performance Specifications

Engine

6.2-Liter V-8

Transmission

6-Speed Manual

Horsepower

415 HP

Torque

415 LB-FT

Driveline

RWD

0-60 MPH

4.7 Seconds

Top Speed

160 MPH

(Specs sourced from Chevrolet)

The final 2017 Chevrolet SS, powered by a 6.2-liter V-8 as customary, produced as much as 415 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. After being discontinued, the sports activities sedan by no means really bought a alternative as Chevrolet began to focus on the crossover SUV market and electric power.

Pros

  • The 2017 Chevy SS provides strong efficiency for its value
  • A spacious inside for a sedan
  • Coming with a responsive handbook transmission

Cons

  • It is not probably the most environment friendly mannequin in its class
  • The inside high quality falls brief in some areas

2 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

Discontinued In: 2016

A White 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Parked
Bring A Trailer

Another iconic Japanese sports activities sedan that made waves within the World Rally Championship is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Winning consecutive titles from 1996 to 1999, the Lancer Evolution was one of the most exciting sedans on the market till it was discontinued in 2016.

2016 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Performance Specifications

Engine

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

Horsepower

290 HP

Torque

270 LB-FT

Driveline

AWD

0-60 MPH

N/A

Top Speed

N/A

(Specs sourced from varied sources)

Unfortunately, the Lancer EVO suffered the identical destiny as so many different sedans, being canceled to make means for the rise of crossovers. The value to maintain producing grew to become too excessive to justify, particularly when contemplating the income that crossover SUVs have been bringing to producers all over the world. The ultimate 2016 Mitsubishi Evolution produces a strong 291 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

Pros

  • The dealing with of the Lancer Evolution is responsive
  • The inside and journey are comfy total

Cons

  • Like the WRX STI, the Lancer Evolution falls brief in effectivity
  • The inside know-how lacks when in comparison with different sedans of its time

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1 Jaguar XFR-S

Discontinued In: 2014

2013 Jaguar XFR-S at the Goodwood Festival
Jaguar

Moving over to the U.Ok., Jaguar has lengthy been a high model on the subject of efficiency autos. Their automobiles additionally introduce the best ranges of luxurious all through. One of the model’s more moderen fashions is the XFR sedan, which was launched again in 2009. In 2014, nevertheless, Jaguar launched the XFR-S version. Becoming the fastest sedan that Jaguar ever produced, it was solely made for the 2014 mannequin 12 months.

2014 Jaguar XFR-S Performance Specifications

Engine

5.0-Liter V-8

Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

Horsepower

550 HP

Torque

502 LB-FT

Driveline

RWD

0-60 MPH

4.6 Seconds

Top Speed

186 MPH

(Specs sourced from Jaguar)

Being powered by a 5.0-liter V-8, the 2017 XFR-S manages to provide a formidable 550 horsepower and 502 pound-feet of torque. In 2024, the Jaguar XF remains to be provided, however the efficiency and distinctive styling of the XFR-S is one thing we might like to see make a return.

Pros

  • Raises the pace limiter from 155 MPH to 186 MPH
  • Comes with a singular aero package deal

Cons

  • The infotainment screens could be sluggish to reply
  • The total journey could be stiff at sluggish speeds

Global automotive makers ponder exit from China

Global automotive makers are beginning to query their continued presence in China as as soon as wholesome gross sales plummet and revenue margins fall amid the rise of native giants corresponding to BYD and Geely.

China is the world’s largest automotive market, with 26 million gentle automobiles offered final 12 months, however powerful competitors and even harder value wars have put once-dominant overseas companies on the again foot after a decade of reaping riches from the nation.

Chinese automotive makers grew their share of their home market from 40% in 2015 to 57% in 2023, in line with automotive analyst agency Inovev, and “it will be very difficult for non-Chinese car makers to regain lost market shares”.

Some have already left.

FACTORY KTM DOMINATES ROUND 3 OF U.S. SPRINT ENDURO

FMF KTM Factory Racing’s Johnny Girroir has continued his successful methods in Round 3 of the 2024 U.S. Sprint Enduro Series, topping the Pro 1 Class and the general convincingly as FMF KTM Factory Racing Team Landers teammates Gus Riordan and Brandy Richards additionally stood on the highest step of the rostrum.

Defending champion Girroir has been in profession type so far this season onboard his KTM 350 XC-F, controlling the Warrior Sprint in Semora, North Carolina, throughout each days on his method to a third-straight victory within the collection this yr. As a outcome, he leads the Pro 1 and general championship standings.

Johnny Girroir: “Yesterday I made some mistakes and just wasn’t flowing, but I went to bed last night a little frustrated and told myself I have to hit my marks today. I had one close call in the early tests, but other than that it was a mistake-free day, I put some solid tests in and I’m happy. It feels good to be three-from-three and we want to keep this momentum going.”

FMF KTM Factory Racing Team Landers’ Riordan – final yr’s Pro 2 title winner – was additionally as soon as once more in successful type, managing to prime the Pro 2 Class on his KTM 250 XC-F, as did teammate Richards within the Pro Women’s Class this weekend. They too at present lead the U.S. Sprint Enduro Series.

Gus Riordan: “It was good, I was able to win the round in Pro 2, and it was a positive weekend overall. I started out a bit slow, but other than that I was happy with how things went, the conditions were nice and dry, so I’m satisfied with Round 3.”

Brandy Richards: “This weekend was definitely a good time. The Cross Test was tricky with it being super-slick, and the Enduro Test was really rough with all the tree roots as well. It was the first time that I’ve actually felt comfortable in the Enduro Tests, so it was a great weekend for me.”

Pro 1 Class Results
1. Johnny Girroir, KTM
2. Liam Draper, YAM
3. Craig DeLong, HQV

Pro 2 Class Results
1. Angus Riordan, KTM
2. Jason Tino, HQV
3. Jack Edmondson, GAS

Women’s Pro Class Results
1. Brandy Richards, KTM
2. Korie Steede, HQV
3. Ava Silvestri, GAS

Volkswagen Group delivers 45 percent more all-electric vehicles in first 9 months

The Volkswagen Group has continued to transform its business in the first nine months of 2023. The company delivered 531,500 all-electric vehicles globally, representing a 45 percent increase from the previous year. This brings the share of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) in the group’s total deliveries to 7.9 percent, up from 6.1 percent in the same period last year. In the third quarter alone, the BEV share reached 9.0 percent compared to 6.8 percent a year ago. Europe was the main driver of growth with a 61 percent increase in BEV deliveries, followed by the USA with a 74 percent jump, and China with a 4 percent increase.

Out of all the BEV deliveries, 64 percent went to Europe, 22 percent to China, 10 percent to the USA, and 4 percent to other markets.

The Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand delivered the most all-electric vehicles, with a total of 273,000 units by the end of September. This accounted for more than half of the Group’s BEV deliveries. Audi followed with 123,000 vehicles, ŠKODA with 54,400 vehicles, SEAT/CUPRA with 32,300 vehicles, Porsche with 27,900 vehicles, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles with 19,600 vehicles.

The top-performing BEV models in the first nine months of 2023 were the Volkswagen ID.4/ID.5 with 162,100 units, Volkswagen ID.3 with 90,500 units, Audi Q4 e-tron (including Sportback) with 77,900 units, ŠKODA Enyaq iV (including Coupé) with 54,400 units, CUPRA Born with 32,300 units, and Audi Q8 e-tron (including Sportback) with 21,800 units.

Here are the delivery numbers for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) by market:

Market Jan. – Jun. 2023 Jan. – Jun. 2022 Delta (%) Jul. – Sep. 2023 Jul. – Sep. 2022 Delta (%) Jan. – Sep. 2023 Jan. – Sep. 2022 Delta (%)
Europe 217,100 128,900 +68.5 124,000 83,100 +49.2 341,100 211,900 +60.9
USA 29,800 17,000 +75.5 20,500 12,000 +71.1 50,300 28,900 +73.7
China 62,400 63,500 -1.6 54,700 49,200 +11.0 117,100 112,700 +3.9
Rest of world 12,300 7,900 +55.3 10,800 5,100 +111.7 23,100 13,000 +77.4
Worldwide 321,600 217,200 +48.1 209,900 149,400 +40.5 531,500 366,600 +45.0

Here are the delivery numbers for battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) by brand:

Brand Jan. – Jun. 2023 Jan. – Jun. 2022 Delta (%) Jul. – Sep. 2023 Jul. – Sep. 2022 Delta (%) Jan. – Sep. 2023 Jan. – Sep. 2022 Delta (%)
Brand Group Core 227,300 147,500 +54.1 152,100 115,800 +31.3 379,400 263,300 +44.1
Volkswagen Passenger Cars 164,800 115,900 +42.2 108,200 91,200 +18.7 273,000 207,100 +31.8
ŠKODA 31,300 22,200 +41.0 23,100 14,700 +57.5 54,400 36,900 +47.6
SEAT/CUPRA 18,900 8,300 +128.7 13,500 9,300 +44.5 32,300 17,600 +84.1
Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles 12,300 1,100 +998.6 7,300 600 +1.094.3 19,600 1,700 +1.032.3
Brand Group Progressive 75,600 50,000 +51.2 47,400 27,000 +75.8 123,000 77,000 +59.8
Audi 75,600 50,000 +51.2 47,400 27,000 +75.8 123,000 77,000 +59.8
Lamborghini/Bentley
Brand Group Sport Luxury 18,000 18,900 -4.7 9,900 6,200 +59.7 27,900 25,100 +11.2
Porsche 18,000 18,900 -4.7 9,900 6,200 +59.7 27,900 25,100 +11.2
Brand Group Trucks 600 800 -22.8 500 400 +29.4 1,200 1,300 -5.7
MAN 400 540 -26.2 280 170 +63.3 670 710 -4.8
Volkswagen Truck & Bus 40 100 -65.0 10 80 -93.9 40 190 -77.8
Scania 150 90 +62.9 40 60 -24.1 190 150 +28.6
Navistar 70 110 -36.4 210 100 +101.9 280 210 +30.5
Volkswagen Group (total) 321,600 217,200 +48.1 209,900 149,400 +40.5 531,500 366,600 +45.0

Slow August Marks the End of UK Car Production Growth

In August, car production in the UK experienced a decline, putting an end to six months of consecutive year-on-year growth. The decrease in production is attributed to the annual summer shutdowns and planned factory upgrades.

Last month, a total of 45,052 cars were produced, which is 31,399 fewer than July. August is traditionally known as the quietest month for car production.

Compared to the same period last year, there were 4,849 fewer cars produced, indicating a 9.7% decrease, according to data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

During the summer, Stellantis’s Ellesmere Port facility was among the factories preparing for the production of next-generation vehicles. It recently reopened after undergoing a £100 million renovation to facilitate the manufacturing of electric vans for brands such as Citroën, Fiat, Opel, Peugeot, and Vauxhall.

However, there was some positive news in August. The production of electrified vehicles, which includes electric cars and various types of hybrids, continued to grow for the 14th consecutive month, with a 2.8% year-on-year increase. These vehicles accounted for 36% of all cars produced in August.

The largest decline in production was seen in cars destined for the domestic market, which decreased by 25.2% compared to the previous year, amounting to 8,010 cars. Additionally, export numbers, which made up 82.2% of total output for the month, also dropped by 5.5% to 37,042.

Before August, the UK car industry enjoyed six months of year-on-year growth, producing 69,707 cars in February, 81,605 in March, 66,527 in April, 76,046 in May, 84,767 in June, and 76,451 in July.

Overall, the UK has produced a total of 571,671 cars in 2023, indicating an 11.8% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth is largely attributed to a successful first half of the year, during which 450,168 cars were produced.

SMMT Chief Executive Mike Hawes reassured that the decline in August is not a cause for concern. He explained that car manufacturers utilize the summer holiday season to upgrade their plants in order to meet the demand for the next generation of electric vehicles. He also highlighted that a record number of these models are already being produced.

BMW M Team WRT Tests BMW M Hybrid V8 at Spa-Francorchamps, BMW M4 GT3 EVO Expected in 2025

The BMW M Team WRT continued its preparation for the FIA World Endurance Championship (FIA WEC) by conducting three days of testing at Spa-Francorchamps. The testing sessions provided valuable insights for the BMW M Hybrid V8, which is set to compete in the FIA WEC in 2024. Simultaneously, BMW M Motorsport also tested the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, the upgraded successor to the current BMW M4 GT3, which will hit the race tracks in the 2025 season.

During the testing, eight BMW M works drivers took turns behind the wheel of both vehicles. Robin Frijns, Maxime Martin, René Rast, Marco Wittmann, and Nick Yelloly drove the BMW M Hybrid V8, with Yelloly and Wittmann bringing their experience from racing the LMDh prototype in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship 2023. Meanwhile, Augusto Farfus, Jens Klingmann, and Bruno Spengler tested the BMW M4 GT3 EVO.

For the BMW M Team WRT, the focus was on optimizing systems and performance for the BMW M Hybrid V8. The team is still in the process of familiarizing themselves with the complex vehicle, like most drivers.

As for the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, the testing phase has started early, and BMW M Motorsport plans to work intensively on refining the already successful BMW M4 GT3 throughout the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The emphasis will be on expanding vehicle functionalities, enhancing component reliability, improving handling, and further enhancing drivability for the teams.

After the test, Andreas Roos, Head of BMW M Motorsport, expressed satisfaction with the progress of the BMW M Hybrid V8 testing. He emphasized the benefits of having the vehicle in race action in the IMSA series and testing in Europe, as it provides a dual pool of experiences that benefits all sides. Vincent Vosse, Team Principal of BMW M Team WRT, also praised the successful test days and the valuable learning experiences gained.

Robin Frijns, a BMW M works driver, mentioned his ongoing learning process with the BMW M Hybrid V8 and the significant progress made during testing at Spa-Francorchamps. Bruno Spengler, another BMW M works driver, expressed his excitement about being involved in the development of the BMW M4 GT3 EVO from the beginning and highlighted the improvements in drivability and tire durability.

Brand Group Core Increases Returns and Operating Profit in First Half of 2023 – Moving Toward Greater Profitability

The Volkswagen Group’s Brand Group Core, consisting of Volkswagen, ŠKODA, SEAT/CUPRA, and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, saw increased efficiency and profitability in the first half of 2023. The improved cooperation between these sister brands contributed to the significant growth in operating profit and returns for the Brand Group Core. The Volkswagen Group aims to maximize the performance of its brand groups while taking advantage of economies of scale through its new steering model.

During this period, the Brand Group Core reported an operating result before special items of EUR 3.77 billion, a 42.5 percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year. The operating return on sales before special items also rose from 5.0 percent to 5.5 percent. Consolidated sales revenue increased by 30 percent to EUR 68.76 billion, and net cash flow reached EUR 2.56 billion, a 46.4 percent increase. These positive results were driven by synergies, scaling effects, pricing measures, and the deconsolidation of Russian companies, which offset higher commodity prices.

Unit sales by the Brand Group Core grew by 25 percent, with 2.45 million vehicles sold in the first half of 2023 compared to 1.96 million vehicles in the same period of the previous year. The brand group also experienced a significant increase in vehicle deliveries, with a total of 3.12 million vehicles handed over to customers, an 11.6 percent increase compared to the first half of 2022. Notably, the BEV segment showed strong growth, with 227,300 electric vehicles delivered, a 54.1 percent increase.

Thomas Schäfer, Member of the Volkswagen Group Board of Management responsible for the Brand Group Core, emphasized that although the first half of 2023 showed solid development, there is more work to be done to enhance efficiency and profitability. Schäfer highlighted the importance of intensified cooperation and leveraging synergy potential among the individual brands, the brand group, and the Volkswagen Group as a whole. He also emphasized that these efforts benefit the customers by enabling continued investment in innovations and technologies, leading to superior vehicles compared to the competition.

The key financial figures for the Brand Group Core in the first half of 2023 include:

Key financials H1 2023 H1 2022 Change 23/22
Unit sales 2,450,000 vehicles 1,956,000 vehicles +25%
Sales revenue EUR 68.76 billion EUR 53.01 billion +30%
Operating profit before special items EUR 3.77 billion EUR 2.65 billion +42.5%
Operating return on sales before special items 5.5% 5.0% +0.5%-points
Net cash flow EUR 2.56 billion EUR 1.75 billion +46.4%

The success of the Brand Group Core in the first half of 2023 can be attributed to the strategic development of the individual brands within the group.

The Volkswagen brand achieved a 25 percent increase in unit sales, from 1.22 million vehicles in the first half of last year to 1.52 million vehicles in 2023. However, higher product costs and a special charge related to Russia impacted the operating profit, which amounted to EUR 1.64 billion compared to EUR 1.86 billion in the same period in 2022. Sales revenue increased from EUR 33.32 billion to EUR 42.95 billion, but the operating return on sales before special items decreased by 1.8 percentage points to 3.8 percent.

ŠKODA Auto reported a strong first half-year, with an increase of 19.9 percent in unit sales, delivering 432,173 vehicles to customers worldwide. The company generated sales revenue of EUR 13.75 billion, a 34.5 percent increase over the same period in 2022. The operating profit before special items rose by 34.8 percent to EUR 911 million, maintaining a solid return on sales of 6.6 percent despite a special charge related to Russia.

SEAT/CUPRA achieved a significant rise in unit sales, with a growth of 35 percent and 317,395 vehicles sold. The company reported an operating profit of EUR 371 million, an increase of EUR 486 million from the first half of 2022. The return on sales in H1 reached 5.0 percent, and sales revenue rose to EUR 7.41 billion, a 37.8 percent increase compared to the first half of 2022.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles (VWN) continued its positive business development, with a 38 percent increase in unit sales to 211,747 vehicles. Sales revenue rose 47 percent to nearly EUR 7.42 billion, and the operating profit before special items reached EUR 448 million, compared to EUR 187 million in the first half of the previous year. Consequently, the return on sales increased from 3.7 percent to 6.0 percent in H1 2023.

Moving forward, the Brand Group Core will continue to focus on profitability and efficiency targets in the second half of 2023. The group aims to achieve a higher return on sales for the year and capitalize on economies of scale and synergies. In order to address ongoing challenges in e-mobility and energy supply, the individual brands will prioritize value-oriented production, cost discipline, and synergy utilization. Additionally, the improved availability of parts, including semiconductors, is expected to support the Brand Group Core’s efforts.

In conclusion, with ongoing growth and market share gains, the Brand Group Core aims to achieve a consolidated return on sales of 8 percent in the long term.

Jerry Seinfeld Takes Delivery Of His $1.2M Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe

Since its debut in the automotive world in 1964, the coveted Porsche 911 has continued an ongoing legacy as the ultimate sports car. Earlier this month, Porsche Classic auctioned a special one-off car dedicated to the Porsche Club of America: the 911 Classic Club Coupe. The Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe sold for an astonishing $1.2 million to a private collector at the 75th Anniversary Porsche Auction held at the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta, Georgia by Broad Arrow Auctions. Discovered through the community of passionate Porsche enthusiasts, the seven-figure 996 generation Porsche was purchased by none other than American comedian and Porsche fanatic Jerry Seinfeld.

Jerry Seinfeld just recently took delivery of the 911 Classic Club Coupe as part of a private event where he accepted the keys and took his first drive. Joining a collection that includes examples like the very first production Porsche 911, a 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS, and countless other historic Porsches, the PCA 911 Classic Club Coupe is in good hands with Jerry Seinfeld. Now that the Porsche 911 Classic Club Coupe is safely in the hands of its proud owner, we hope to see Jerry Seinfeld displaying his new prized possession at future events. View all current Porsche 911 models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below.

View All Porsche 911 For Sale

 

5 Android Games Similar to Fortnite That You Should Try in 2023

“PUBG Mobile” continues to be a popular battle royale game on mobile devices in 2023. With its realistic graphics and immersive gameplay, “PUBG Mobile” has captured the attention of players. It originated from the PC game and has now become a standalone title with optimized controls for mobile gaming.

When comparing “PUBG Mobile” to “Fortnite,” there are a few notable differences. While “Fortnite” offers vibrant and creative gameplay, “PUBG Mobile” focuses more on realistic visuals and gameplay mechanics. In “PUBG Mobile,” accuracy in shooting and strategic decision-making are emphasized, whereas “Fortnite” has a more casual and fast-paced approach that includes building structures to gain an advantage.

Both games have features designed specifically for mobile devices and prioritize fair gameplay. “PUBG Mobile” stands out for its excellent controls and being a standalone game, while “Fortnite” allows cross-platform play with its PC version.

“PUBG Mobile” has maintained a growing user base due to its engaging gameplay, regular updates, and commitment to fair competition. The game offers a competitive environment where players fight to be the last one standing. It provides a wide range of weapons, vehicles, and strategic elements. The success of “PUBG Mobile” has not only influenced the battle royale genre but has also led to spin-offs and adaptations.