Tag Archives: contradiction

The FTC Isn’t Happy About Microsoft’s Plan To Lay Off Activision Workers

At the center of the FTC’s argument lies the obvious contradiction between Microsoft’s earlier assurances and its current actions. During the preliminary merger assessment course of, Microsoft informed the courts that Microsoft and Activision Blizzard would function as separate entities following the merger. The tech large had additionally promised the court docket that it will keep the pre-merger establishment.

However, Microsoft’s current choice to chop greater than 1,900 jobs in its online game division additionally included Activision staff. The FTC argues that had Activision been actually impartial as Microsoft initially claimed, these layoffs at Activision would have by no means occurred.

It’s price noting that the job cuts at Activision Blizzard spanned a number of groups, together with Blizzard’s esports divisions and subsidiary studio Toys for Bob. Also affected have been staff related to Blizzard’s unreleased survival recreation, codenamed Odyssey. Microsoft defended its actions and claimed that the layoffs have been a part of an “execution plan” to scale back “areas of overlap” between Microsoft and Activision.

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals is presently deliberating on the FTC’s enchantment, and issues might take an fascinating flip if it guidelines in favor of the FTC.

Top 10 finest sports activities SUVs 2024

Whether you think about it a contradiction in phrases, a complete aberration or the last word all-rounder, there’s no denying the efficiency SUV can stir debate.

On paper, these high-riding and extremely tuned machines shouldn’t work for eager drivers, but they’re flying out of showrooms faster than most can get to 62mph.

In some ways it’s not arduous to see their attraction, the mixture of tempo and practicality permitting them to slide simply into most lives. What’s extra, regardless of a hefty kerbweight and a excessive centre of gravity, many drive with higher poise, precision and panache than you’d consider, permitting them to be hustled arduous over give-and-take roads.

Then there’s ordinary upmarket SUV perks of an expensive cabin, commanding view out and the all-weather safety of all-wheel drive. And, if it’s your bag, there’s kerbside kudos of all that modern off-road intent. On paper, these are vehicles which have all of the bases lined.

Our high 10 right here represents the excessive efficiency heartland for SUVs, with a mid-sized vibe and a worth ceiling of round £100,000 (though a few of our contenders float just a little above this self-imposed restrict). If you need extra unique and rarefied quick 4x4s such because the Lamborghini Urus, then here’s our list of Super SUVs.

1. Porsche Macan GTS

Porsche macan gts top 10

Pros: Ideal mix of tempo, house and dynamic grace, best-in-class dealing with 

Cons: It can really feel heavy, It’s practically ten years outdated

If any SUV goes to earn grudging respect from the died-in-the-wool sportscar fan, then it is the Macan. Despite nearing its tenth birthday (and basically being primarily based on the unique Audi Q5, which debuted in 2008), Porsche’s entry-level off-roader continues to set the bar on this intently fought class, with a mix of tempo, house and dynamic grace that makes even the best naysayers nod in approval.

With a brand new, all-electric model on the horizon, Porsche has each spruced-up and pared-back the present Macan line-up, with an end-of-life facelift. The flagship Turbo has gone, however the GTS that successfully replaces it packs the identical 434bhp turbocharged 2.9-litre V6 so there’s no loss in efficiency (you’ll be at 62mph from a standstill in simply 4.5 seconds, whereas the highest velocity is a biscuit beneath 170mph).

Crucially, its subtly lowered and uprated suspension delivers the kind of involving and agile driving expertise that has you satisfied you’re in one thing smaller and extra sizzling hatch-shaped – it’s physics-defying antics beggar perception. The steering additionally has an identical weighting and response to the model’s low-slung road-burners, whereas the expensively tuned dampers are forged iron in management however cushioned in operation.

2023 SUZUKI DR650S: DUAL-SPORT TEST

We have mixed feelings about the Suzuki DR650S. On one hand, we appreciate the fact that Suzuki has kept this model in production for over 32 years. On the other hand, it is still a motorcycle that is essentially 32 years old. However, despite its age, the DR650S has its merits and continues to be offered in the market.

The Suzuki DR650S is a big, air-cooled single-cylinder motorcycle with a carburetor. It is priced at $6999, which is the same as a Yamaha YZ125 motocross bike. What’s interesting is that the DR650S is still manufactured in Japan, while most other motorcycles in this price range are made in countries like China, Thailand, or Vietnam. As a result, the DR650S stands out as one of the last remaining models of its kind.

LOOKING BACK
The roots of the DR650S can be traced back to the 1978 Suzuki SP370, the company’s first four-stroke off-road bike. Over the years, it evolved into the present-day DR650S with various updates and improvements. In 1993, the electric starter was introduced, which was a major step forward. Today’s DR650S remains fundamentally similar to the initial version. In the late 90s, the DR650S was considered one of the top dual-sport bikes in terms of performance and handling.

middle content two stroke

THE DR TODAY
Despite the DR650S remaining largely unchanged, its role in the market has shifted. It is no longer considered a high-performance bike or a traditional dual-sport model. Instead, it serves as an entry-level adventure bike. The bike’s design and layout reflect its 90s heritage, with a thick seat and handlebars that sweep back towards the rider. Vibration is minimal thanks to rubber-mounted footpegs and handlebar weights. The power delivery of the big single-cylinder engine is torque-oriented, offering a distinct and satisfying acceleration experience. While it lacks the rev-happy nature of modern bikes, the DR650S produces more torque than many of its rivals. Its tall gearing allows for cruising at low RPM, making it comfortable for long rides on dirt roads. However, the bike may struggle on fast trails due to its street-oriented tires and limited suspension adjustability. It is also relatively heavy compared to its competitors.

The 2023 Suzuki DR650S is still around. It sells for $6999.

WHERE WE STARTED
The Kawasaki KLR650 remains the closest competitor to the Suzuki DR650S. While the KLR650 has received updates and now features fuel injection, the DR650S remains unchanged in terms of its carbureted engine. Fuel injection is seen as an added complexity and expense in a bike like the DR650S. Despite its age, the DR650S still finds its place in the modern world and has an enduring appeal. We believe it deserves to continue being produced indefinitely.