The Honda City is a 5-star safety rated sedan, so can the Elevate SUV achieve the same level of safety?
Honda has conducted internal crash tests on the Elevate SUV to meet global safety standards.
The tests included front offset, side, flat, and rear barrier, as well as side pole impact tests. The vehicle also underwent pedestrian protection testing.
The detailed crash test results will be available once the SUV is available for sale.
The Elevate SUV is equipped with six airbags, hill start assist, rear parking camera, ISOFIX, and ADAS for safety.
The expected starting price for the Elevate SUV is around Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).
Safety ratings are an important consideration for car buyers, especially in the premium segment. The Honda Elevate SUV has undergone rigorous internal crash testing, and is expected to receive a high safety rating from crash-testing agencies worldwide.
Understanding the Tests
The Honda Elevate SUV has been subjected to various crash tests, including front offset (including with a child dummy), side, flat and rear barrier, and side pole impact tests at speeds ranging from 32kmph to 64kmph. The SUV has performed well in these crash tests and has also passed the pedestrian protection test.
The vehicle is built on Honda’s ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body structure, which enhances safety.
Could It Be the Next 5-Star Safety Rated SUV?
Based on the internal crash test results, it is anticipated that the new Honda SUV can achieve a 4- or 5-star safety rating. The actual rating will be determined by global NCAP tests or the upcoming Bharat NCAP.
It is worth noting that the fifth-generation Honda City received a full 5-star rating in the ASEAN NCAP crash tests. The Jazz and Amaze models also have a 4-star rating, indicating Honda’s commitment to producing safe cars. The Elevate SUV is expected to carry this tradition forward.
The Honda Elevate SUV is equipped with six airbags, hill start assist, vehicle stability assist, a rear parking camera, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. It also features ADAS (advanced driving assistance system) for active safety. The ADAS includes automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and auto high-beam, all of which are radar-based safety technologies.
The Honda Elevate SUV is expected to be priced around Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom) and will compete with the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, Volkswagen Taigun, Citroen C3 Aircross, Skoda Kushaq, and MG Astor. The SUV is scheduled for launch in early September, and bookings are already open.
# Mahindra Teases New Pickup Concept, Probably Electric, With Scorpio N Styling
– The Mahindra pickup will be a global offering.
– Shares design similarities with the Scorpio N.
– Could get a range of up to 450km.
– Likely to arrive by 2025.
Mahindra has teased a new pickup concept for its event on August 15, which we believe is based on the Scorpio N. The previous-generation Mahindra Scorpio also had a pickup version sold in select global markets, and we believe it’s getting a successor.
## An Electric Pickup?
The Scorpio N is an ICE (internal combustion engine) model, but since Mahindra mentioned in the teaser that it will be showcasing its vision for a global pickup, we have reason to believe it could be electric and based on the carmaker’s INGLO platform.
In most developed markets where pickups are commonplace, established carmakers like Ford and Toyota have already started developing/selling electric pickups. Meanwhile, at the luxury end, Tesla is still working on getting the Cybertruck, which already has a multi-year waiting period, production-ready.
Also Read: Upcoming Electric Cars In India
## INGLO Platform
This platform can house two different batteries: 60kWh and 80kWh. The INGLO platform will be capable of offering both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive powertrains, the latter being more suitable for a pickup, capable of providing a range of up to 450km. You can understand more about the INGLO platform here.
## Design Similarities
The teaser for the pickup concept only showcases a few details such as the front grille, tail lamps, and the side step, all of which seem to be inspired by the Scorpio N. Also, the overall shape of the pickup looks similar to the popular SUV, including the bonnet and the sunroof position.
Also Read: Here’s How The Mahindra XUV e8 (XUV 700 Electric) Could Look Different From Its Concept Version
The Scorpio N-based pickup concept will be showcased on 15th August in Cape Town, South Africa. An electric pickup may not be arriving anytime before 2025, but if there’s an ICE version like the previous-gen Scorpio Getaway, it could come to India as well to rival the likes of the Isuzu V-Cross and the Toyota Hilux.
Former McLaren and Ferrari F1 driver Stefan Johansson recently had the opportunity to drive a McLaren 750S on a beautiful road in Idaho. However, it wasn’t just a leisurely drive through the mountains. Johansson managed to reach speeds over 200 mph on a two-lane highway.
This impressive feat was McLaren’s way of announcing the official arrival of the 750S in North America. It’s worth noting that the road used for this speed demonstration was closed for the occasion. McLaren chose to showcase the car during the 2023 Sun Valley Tour de Force event, where a 3.2-mile stretch of asphalt in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area in Idaho is designated for unrestricted speed runs. In the past, a Bugatti Chiron managed to reach a top speed of 253 mph on the same road. Although Johansson didn’t quite match that level of insanity, he did manage to briefly bring the McLaren 750S to a speed of 204 mph – quite an achievement for the new supercar.
The 2025 Toyota MR2 may feature an engine from Suzuki, such as the 1.0-liter turbocharged inline-three with 120 horsepower and 144.5 pound-feet of torque.
Porsche and Lotus collaborations are possible, resulting in a higher-priced MR2 with components from these high-end carmakers.
Lexus, as a subsidiary of Toyota, could also contribute to the development of the MR2. A manual transmission option will be available for enthusiasts.
Toyota’s MR2, a popular JDM icon, is set to make a comeback in 2025. The new generation MR2 is expected to feature collaborations with Suzuki, Porsche, and Lotus, resulting in an exciting mid-engine model. Here are 20 things you need to know about the 2025 Toyota MR2:
1. The 2025 MR2 Won’t Have a Toyota Engine: Toyota may partner with Suzuki and Daihatsu for the new MR2. The 1.0-liter turbocharged inline-three engine from Suzuki is a potential candidate for the MR2.
2. The MR2 May Have Porsche Components: Toyota could collaborate with Porsche and Lotus, potentially resulting in a higher-priced MR2 with components sourced from these high-end carmakers.
3. Lexus Could Play a Role in MR2’s Development: As a subsidiary of Toyota, Lexus may contribute to the development of the MR2, bringing its expertise in luxury and performance.
4. Manual Transmission Option Available: Toyota understands the importance of the driving experience for sports car enthusiasts, so a manual transmission option will be offered.
5. The MR2 Will Be Compact and Lightweight: As with previous MR2 models, the 2025 version will prioritize compactness and lightweight construction to deliver nimble handling and agility.
6. Potential Collaboration with Suzuki: Toyota’s partnership with Suzuki may result in the use of Suzuki’s 1.0-liter turbocharged inline-three engine for the MR2. This engine is already showcased in various Suzuki models.
7. Possibility of Porsche Components: Toyota could seek assistance from Porsche and Lotus to develop the MR2 as a high-performance sports car, potentially replacing the entry-level GR86 model.
8. Development Led by Daihatsu: Toyota’s subsidiary, Daihatsu, is reportedly leading the design and development of the MR2, ensuring a new corporate design for the sports car.
9. Lightweight Construction: Toyota aims to make the 2025 MR2 as light as possible to enhance performance and fuel efficiency. It will utilize the brand’s TNGA platform, optimized for compactness and weight reduction.
10. Potential Lotus Rivalry: The MR2 is rumored to be targeting the Honda NSX (Acura NSX) as a direct competitor, potentially offering a more upscale and generously equipped version compared to Suzuki’s model.
11. Suzuki-Badged Version Possible: There could be a Suzuki-badged version of the MR2, aiming to offer a more budget-friendly alternative with Suzuki’s brand identity.
12. Potential Replacement for Toyota’s GR86: The MR2 may replace Toyota’s GR86 as the brand’s entry-level sporty proposition, offering a more powerful and performance-focused alternative.
13. Mild-Hybrid Powertrain: The MR2 could feature Suzuki’s K10C engine upgraded with a mild-hybrid system, ensuring consistent power delivery and addressing emissions requirements.
14. Compact Dimensions: The MR2’s dimensions are expected to be compact, with an overall length of approximately 4,200 mm, a width of 1,720 mm, and a height of 1,220 mm. The wheelbase is projected to be around 2,550 mm.
15. Lightweight: The 2025 MR2 will prioritize lightweight construction to optimize performance and handling. The target weight is approximately 2,000 to 2,200 pounds.
16. Potential Toyota MR2 GR Version: There are rumors of a high-performance GR version of the MR2 exclusively offered by Toyota. This version could feature an upgraded engine or turbocharged powertrain.
17. Possible Name Change: Toyota may choose to give the mid-engined offering an all-new name instead of using the MR2 moniker.
18. Limited Availability in the United States: It is uncertain if the MR2 will be available in the United States, as Toyota may focus on local markets first. Import regulations and market demand could delay its introduction to American soil.
19. The Hype May Be Premature: Since Toyota has not officially announced the new MR2, the rumors and information should be taken with caution. The possibility of a new MR2 may not materialize as expected.
20. Toyota’s Continued Interest: However, the strong interest and demand for a modern MR2 from fans and enthusiasts may eventually persuade Toyota to bring the iconic sports car back to life.
Sub-Compact SUVs, like the Kia Sonet, could gain popularity in the U.S. due to its size, versatility, and practicality, appealing to a wide range of buyers.
The Kia Sonet offers diverse engine options, including a 1.2-liter gasoline engine, a 1.0-liter turbo gasoline engine, and a 1.5-liter diesel engine, providing power and torque options for different preferences.
The Kia Sonet showcases a premium exterior design with Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, LED DRLs, and sleek alloy wheels, while the interior offers a comfortable and feature-packed cabin, including a 10.25-inch HD screen and advanced connectivity options.
Compact SUVs have gained immense popularity in the United States, becoming one of the most sought-after vehicle segments after pickup trucks. C-SUVs offer a winning combo of size, versatility, and practicality. They provide spacious and comfortable cabin space for passengers, ample cargo room, and a raised seating position with enhanced visibility, instilling a sense of confidence on the road. This versatility appeals to a wide range of buyers, including families, young professionals, and adventure enthusiasts.
Kia has introduced some excellent compact SUVs like the Seltos in the U.S. market, which have garnered a strong fan base of customers. Another small SUV that Kia has yet to release in the U.S. but has enjoyed success with in overseas markets like India, the Middle East, and Latin America is the Kia Sonet.
The Kia Sonet was developed mainly for the Indian market in the year 2020. Positioned below the Seltos in the line-up, it closely resembles the similarly-sized Hyundai Venue. The Sonet has a more aggressive appearance with Kia’s signature ‘Tiger Nose’ grille, LED DRLs housed in prominent headlamps, and a light bar connecting the rear LED tail lamps.
Why Should Kia Introduce The Sonet To The U.S. Market?
Kia
A front 3/4 action shot of a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
The Sonet is a subcompact crossover SUV built on the Hyundai-Kia K2 platform shared with the Hyundai Venue. The Kia Sonet offers a diverse range of engine options to cater to different preferences. The lineup includes a 1.2-Liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine generating 82 horsepower and 84 pound-feet of torque. For those seeking more power, there’s a 1.0-liter turbo gasoline engine producing 118 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, a 1.5-liter diesel engine is available, delivering 99 horsepower and an impressive 184 pound-feet of torque.
Engine Specifications
Engine Type
Diesel
Gas
Gas
Engine Size
1.5 Liter`
1.0 Liter
1.2 liter
Cylinders
Four
Three
Four
Horsepower
113.43 hp
118 hp
81.86 hp
Torque
184 lb ft
126 lb ft
84.8 lb ft
Cam Type
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
In terms of transmission, Kia has provided a wide array of choices, which include a five-speed manual, a six-speed manual, a six-speed torque converter automatic, a seven-speed DCT (dual-clutch transmission), and a six-speed iMT (intelligent manual transmission), similar to what’s offered in the Venue. Notably, a six-speed automatic option is available for the diesel engine.
Exterior Styling
The exterior of the Kia Sonet exudes a premium feel with carefully crafted touches throughout. The top-of-the-line GT Line variant, which features striking red inserts, adding a dynamic flair to the car’s appearance. Emphasizing its rugged appeal, the grille boasts a sleek and chrome-free design. The headlamps, equipped with LEDs, emanate a modern and sharp aesthetic, while the fog lamps showcase elegant piano black housings.
The side profile of the Sonet continues the muscular theme, with attention-grabbing 16″ alloy wheels stealing the spotlight. Kia has truly mastered the art of designing alloy wheels, evident in their exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, which elevates the vehicle’s overall appeal. The Kia Sonet’s exterior design showcases a perfect balance of premium elements and rugged charm, particularly in the GT Line variant, making it a visually captivating and distinctive option in the compact SUV segment.
A shot of the dashboard in a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
The Kia Sonet boasts a premium interior, creating an overall pleasant ambiance in the cabin. Depending on the trim chosen, you can enjoy either dual-tone interior or a sleek full black theme with striking red stitching, particularly in the GT Line variant. The dashboard design is ergonomic and user-friendly, while the steering wheel design resembles that of the Seltos, exuding a sense of familiarity.
The front seats are a highlight, offering exceptional comfort and ample space. They feature well-designed bolsters and provide adequate support for long journeys. However, while the rear seats are nicely contoured, the Sonet falls slightly short in rear space. Legroom is comparable to that of the Venue, but taller passengers might experience some limitations as your knees could brush against the front seatbacks if occupied by a tall passenger.
The Kia Sonet boasts a large and impressive 10.25-inch HD screen adorning its dashboard, similar to its counterpart, the Seltos. This screen offers UVO connectivity options, enabling live traffic information and Over-The-Air (OTA) map updates, enhancing the vehicle’s navigation capabilities. Additionally, a wireless smartphone charger with cooling function has been seamlessly integrated, ensuring convenient charging on the go.
Kia
A shot of the front seats in a 2023 Kia Sonet X-Line
Notably, the Sonet comes equipped with an Air purifier featuring Virus protect technology, emphasizing Kia’s commitment to passenger well-being and comfort. The vehicle matches the Hyundai Venue in terms of equipment and then goes a step further, offering extra features such as a seven-speaker Bose sound system and ventilated front seats for both the driver and front passenger. Furthermore, the Sonet includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System and cruise control to enhance the driving experience.
While the Sonet offers an array of advanced features, it does miss out on a 360-degree camera. Nevertheless, the package does include a one-touch sunroof, adding a touch of luxury to the overall driving experience. The Sonet impresses with its comprehensive and innovative features, making it an appealing choice in the competitive compact SUV market.
Despite the spatial constraints, Kia ensures the rear passengers’ comfort with thoughtful amenities, such as dedicated AC vents and a USB charging socket. While the Sonet may not be the most spacious in its class, its premium interior and attention to passenger comfort make it an appealing choice in the compact SUV segment.
Kia
A shot of the Kia Seltos in the City
The Kia Sonet’s success lies in its ability to replicate the winning formula of its larger sibling, the Seltos, in a more compact form. It impressively shares almost all the Seltos’ features, many of which are rare to find at this price point. Additionally, although it may not really find many takers in the United States, the Seltos offers an excellent 1.5 diesel engine with a choice of a manual or torque-converter automatic gearbox. The diesel automatic variant, in particular, stands out as the best powertrain, delivering a smooth and efficient performance, making the Sonet feel like a more premium and larger vehicle.
Despite its successes, the Sonet does have some limitations. Similar to the Hyundai Venue, its back seat lacks the spaciousness offered by some rivals, and the ride can feel slightly choppy. Additionally, the handling dynamics may not be as engaging as some would hope. Nevertheless, the Kia Sonet strikes an impressive balance among compact SUVs, offering a loaded feature set and outstanding versatility. If you seek a compact vehicle that can handle various tasks with ease and comes packed with features, the Sonet remains a top choice.
The Sonet X-Line Special Edition is the latest and best version of the model so far. This version comes with the following upgrades over the standard
Exterior Updates:
Matte graphite (grey) exterior paint shade
Gloss black knurled pattern grille
Piano black finish with dark metal accents on front and rear skid plates
Gloss black fog lamp garnishes and outside wing mirrors
Dark metal accents on doors
16-inch alloy wheels with gloss black finish
Silver brake calipers (instead of red on standard GT models)
Interior Updates:
New dual-tone color scheme
Black headliner
Leatherette upholstery with orange contrast stitching and X Line logos
Based on the top-spec GTX+ trim with existing features and equipment
Engine Options:
Expected to offer the 120hp, 1.0-liter turbo-gasoline engine
Expected to offer the 100hp, 1.5-liter diesel engine (115hp in automatic variant)
Transmission options: iMT and DCT for the gas model, and manual and torque converter automatic for the diesel
The Kia Sonet has undoubtedly made a strong impact in the compact SUV market with its winning combination of style, features, and performance. With a diverse range of engine options and transmission choices, it caters to various driving preferences and needs. Its premium interiors, loaded with advanced technology and comfort features, provide a delightful driving experience.
While some limitations exist in terms of rear space and handling dynamics, the Sonet X-Line Special Edition showcases the best version yet, with distinctive exterior styling touches and a refined interior. If Kia were to introduce the Sonet to the U.S. market, it would seamlessly fill the gap between the Kia Soul and the Seltos, offering American consumers another compelling choice in the highly sought-after compact SUV segment.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has temporarily suspended its case against the merger between Microsoft and Activision Blizzard. The main concern raised by regulators was that Microsoft could gain an unfair advantage in the market by limiting Activision games to its Xbox platform, on both consoles and in cloud gaming.
In response to these concerns, Microsoft took steps to alleviate them. The company signed a 10-year deal with Nintendo to offer “Call of Duty” on the Switch and future platforms. This move was aimed at addressing worries about Microsoft’s dominance in cloud gaming. Microsoft also reached a similar agreement with Nvidia to ensure the franchise remains available on its own cloud-based game streaming platform, which competes with Xbox’s streaming service.
While Sony initially hesitated to accept the “Call of Duty” deal, the company eventually agreed to it in July 2023. Sony, being a major opponent of the merger, had concerns about the future of its PlayStation platform. The U.S. antitrust regulators focused more on the console and PC gaming market, while the U.K.’s competition watchdog also placed strong emphasis on the cloud gaming landscape.
However, given the relatively small share of cloud gaming in comparison to the overall impact of the merger, Microsoft is well-positioned to convince the competition watchdogs on both statistical and practical grounds. Microsoft has yet to comment on the FTC’s decision to withdraw its in-house trial, but it seems that the massive merger in the gaming industry is on track to be completed by the end of this year.
The C3X will most likely be based on the C3 Aircross’ platform
The Citroen C3X could hit the market in 2024.
Globally, the C3X is a sedan crossover that mixes executive styling with increased ground clearance.
Its cabin and features will most likely be similar to the C3 Aircross.
Could use Citroen’s 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine.
Expected to be priced from Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards.
A heavily camouflaged test mule was recently spied testing in Bengaluru, standing out for its sloped rear end as there are not many coupe-styled mass-market offerings in India. While we cannot identify any brand logos, this test vehicle resembles the design language of Citroen models and appears to be the upcoming Citroen C3X crossover sedan. Here is what the spy shot tells us.
A Familiar Design
The spy video only got a glimpse of the test mule from a side angle, showing part of the front profile and the headlight’s design looks a lot like the ones you see on the Citroen C3 and the C3 Aircross. From the side, the most noticeable giveaway are the flap-type door handles seen on almost all India-spec Citroen models. The rear has the sloping crossover design with exact details hidden by another layer of camouflage.
We did not get a glimpse of the interior, but the cabin of the C3X will most likely share similarities with the cabin of the Citroen C3 Aircross SUV.
Image of Citroen eC4X used for reference
Powertrain
The India-spec Citroen C3X could be powered by the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine from the C3 and C3 Aircross. In the hatchback, this petrol unit churns out 110PS and 190Nm and is mated only to a 6-speed manual transmission. However, Citroen could increase the performance output and also add an automatic transmission for the C3X to match the C3 Aircross.
The carmaker could also offer the 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit (82PS and 115Nm) paired with a 5-speed manual transmission for a more affordable entry point.
Features & Safety
The C3X will most likely have the same feature list as the C3 Aircross, which gets a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 7-inch digital driver’s display, and manual climate control.
In terms of passenger safety, it will be equipped with up to six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and rear parking sensors.
Price & Launch
The Citroen C3X crossover sedan will likely arrive in 2024 at an expected ex-showroom starting price of Rs 10 lakh (ex-showroom). The C3X will be an alternative to the likes of the Tata Curvv, Hyundai Verna, Honda City, Volkswagen Virtus, and Skoda Slavia.
The Takata airbag recall has been an ongoing issue for years, and it continues to pose serious risks. The first recalls were issued ten years ago, and the 2003 Dodge Ram was added to the list in 2015. Unfortunately, another fatality related to the airbags has recently been reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). As a result, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has issued a warning, advising owners of 2003 Ram trucks who have not had the airbag recall performed to refrain from driving their vehicles.
The main concern lies with the passenger-side airbags in the 2003 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 models. These airbag inflators are at risk of rupturing upon deployment, sending dangerous shrapnel into the passenger compartment. The recall included 385,686 vehicles, and as of July 2023, it is estimated that up to 84,000 trucks could still have the original passenger airbags installed.
NHTSA Acting Administrator Ann Carlson emphasizes the increased danger of older defective Takata airbag inflators and urges owners to have their airbags replaced immediately, both for their own safety and the safety of their loved ones.
This recent incident involving a 2003 Dodge Ram marks the first reported fatality from this model. In total, there have been 26 deaths in the United States caused by ruptured Takata inflators. Globally, the number is at least 35, leading several automakers to issue do-not-drive warnings for vehicles at risk. BMW, for example, issued warnings in May 2023 for 90,000 vehicles, including the 2000-2006 3 Series, 2000-2004 X5, and 2000-2003 5 Series. Additionally, Honda and Acura models from 2001-2003 received a warning in February 2003, and FCA issued warnings for 276,000 Dodges and Chryslers from 2005-2010.
The Takata airbag recall, which began in 2013, is the largest recall of its kind in automotive history. Over 42 million vehicles in the US alone are affected. The consequences, including fines and compensation totaling over $1 billion, led to Takata’s bankruptcy in 2018.
Owners of FCA vehicles can check for open recalls on the automaker’s website, while NHTSA provides a comprehensive list of affected automakers and vehicles subject to Takata airbag recalls.
Many of us dream of owning a car that can really perform on the road. A powerful car with a V-6 or V-8 engine under the hood is something that many of us desire. However, the main obstacle to this dream is often the cost. A high-performance car with over 500 horsepower can easily break the bank, making it out of reach for most people. Fortunately, with advancements in technology and increased competition, owning a car with decent performance is no longer a far-fetched idea.
Of course, there is a trade-off. We can’t expect a high-performance car like a Lamborghini Huracan for the price of a Toyota Camry. However, there are affordable options out there that still deliver a thrilling driving experience without emptying your wallet. In this article, we have compiled a list of 10 such affordable performance cars that offer great performance without breaking the bank.
Front three-quarter shot of the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
Starting off our list is the iconic Mazda MX-5 Miata, a lightweight and agile roadster that promises a thrilling driving experience. The 2023 model is equipped with a peppy 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower. Its compact design, tight suspension, and rear-wheel-drive layout make it incredibly fun to drive, especially on twisty roads. The MX-5 Miata is affordable and has a legendary reputation for handling and responsiveness, making it one of the top choices for driving enthusiasts.
Specifications
Engine
2.0-liter four-cylinder
Horsepower
181 HP
Torque
151 pound-feet
Transmission
6-speed manual
0 – 60
5.7 seconds
Top Speed
149 MPH
Mazda has put a lot of emphasis on the handling of the MX-5 Miata, providing the vehicle with near-perfect front and rear weight distribution. The Miata proves that having a thrilling driving experience on winding roads doesn’t always have to cost a fortune.
92023 Toyota GR86
MSRP: $28,400
Drive Time Productions LLC
A front 3/4 shot of a 2023 Toyota GR86
The Toyota GR86 is a compact sports car designed to deliver excitement on every drive. Powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, it boasts 228 horsepower. This rear-wheel-drive coupe offers precise handling and a balanced chassis, ensuring an engaging and confidence-inspiring driving experience. With its sleek design and driver-focused features, the GR86 is an affordable option for those seeking a sporty ride.
Specifications
Engine
2.4-liter four-cylinder
Horsepower
228 HP
Torque
184 pound-feet
Transmission
6-speed manual
0 – 60
6.1 seconds
Top Speed
140 MPH
Toyota has learned from the previous version of the GR86 and equipped the latest version with the power it needed. The cockpit is also designed with driver comfort in mind. However, the rear passenger room is tight.
82023 Subaru BRZ
MSRP: $28,595
Subaru
Front three-quarters shot of the 2023 Subaru BRZ in road
As a sibling to the Toyota GR86, the 2023 Subaru BRZ shares the same platform and engine as its Japanese counterpart. It also features the same 2.4-liter four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine, delivering 228 horsepower that rivals the likes of the Mazda Miata, Mini Cooper S, or Honda Civic Sport. The BRZ stands out with its superb handling and rear-wheel-drive setup, making it an excellent option for spirited driving. Its affordable price, combined with Subaru’s reputation for reliability, makes the BRZ a popular choice among performance car enthusiasts on a budget!
Specifications
Engine
2.4-liter four-cylinder
Horsepower
228 HP
Torque
184 pound-feet
Transmission
6-speed manual
0 – 60
5.4 seconds
Top Speed
140 MPH
The only notable difference between the GR86 and the BRZ is a few suspension changes. Apart from that, they are completely identical.
An outdoor shot of two 2024 Ford Mustang coupes and a convertible
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car, and the 2024 model continues the legacy. While the GT with a V-8 engine is out of reach for many due to its price, the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine option is a viable choice. It offers 310 horsepower at a more affordable price. The S650 Mustang provides impressive power and performance, along with aggressive styling, a comfortable interior, and excellent handling, making it a top choice for those seeking a blend of performance and comfort.
Specifications
Engine
2.3-liter EcoBoost
Horsepower
310 HP
Torque
350 pound-feet
Transmission
10-speed automatic
0 – 60
Not Available
Top Speed
Not Available
All things considered, the Ford Mustang is an ideal option. It is also the last-standing car in Ford’s lineup that isn’t an SUV, a crossover, or a pickup truck.
62023 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT
MSRP: $29,890
Bring A Trailer
3/4 Side Shot Red 2020 Chevrolet Camaro LT1
Another American muscle car that offers exceptional performance at an affordable price is the Chevrolet Camaro. The 2023 Camaro comes with a variety of engine options, including a potent 3.6-liter V-6 engine that generates 335 horsepower. This rear-wheel-drive coupe boasts powerful acceleration, precise handling, and a stylish exterior design. With its range of trims and configurations, there’s a Camaro to suit various budgets and performance preferences.
Specifications
Engine
3.6-liter V-6
Horsepower
335 HP
Torque
284 pound-feet
Transmission
6-speed manual
0 – 60
5.4 seconds
Top Speed
155 MPH
Chevy offers the Camaro as a convertible and a coupe, but the prices vary based on your choice. The best part is, there are many options to choose from. With the Camaro on its way out, now may be the best time to get one.
The Model 3 and Model Y could be Tesla’s debut cars in India
BIG NEWS! Tesla India launch has just been confirmed by the brand’s boss, Elon Musk. The Twitter CEO met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the latter’s visit to the US, where they talked about several issues ranging from energy to spirituality.
In a public interview, Elon Musk said, “It was a fantastic meeting with the Prime Minister and I like him quite a lot. He visited our factory a few years ago. So, we have known each other for a while.”
“I am incredibly excited about the future of India. I think India has more promise than any large country in the world,” he added.
Also Read: The Bigger, The Better? These 10 Cars Have The Biggest Displays In The World
When is Tesla coming, then?
Musk also said that Tesla will be in India as soon as humanly possible. The Prime Minister has invited the Tesla founder to explore significant investment opportunities in India. This further strengthens the reports that Tesla is planning to set up a factory in India and sell locally produced EVs. This will ensure lower prices of the still premium EVs.
Tesla talks so far
The Tesla-India talks have seen several ups and downs over the years. The electric carmaker even registered its office in Bengaluru and we spotted several test mules of the Model 3 too. However, high import taxes were the main hurdle which made Tesla sceptical about its India move. The American carmaker’s request for lower tariffs on pure EVs was shot down and the company was uncertain about making manufacturing investments without being able to test the market with its products first.
Also Read: India’s Lithium Reserves Have Just Gotten Bigger
The carmaker currently has the Model 3, Model Y, Model X, and Model S on sale globally. India might get the Model 3 sedan and Model Y crossover at first. The Cybertruck will be globally launched sometime in 2024, while the carmaker is also readying up a new entry-level EV.
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