If you might be questioning precisely why that huge area of the nation has earned the Tornado Alley designation, it is as a result of tornados have traditionally shaped extra commonly inside the area than wherever else within the nation. Likewise, the areas that sometimes fall underneath the Tornado Alley flag are comparatively flat, making twister occasions notably damaging to low-lying residential areas.
That being mentioned, a case might be made that essentially the most damaging tornados don’t originate in Tornado Alley, with tornados in Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas claiming a bigger toll on human life. Nonetheless, when it comes to the sheer quantity of tornados per 12 months, the American Heartland continues to be floor zero for such excessive climate occasions. There is, after all, a scientific cause behind the variety of tornados plaguing Tornado Alley, with the area serving as a degree of convergence for risky air lots making their approach throughout the nation. When these lots collide, the result’s usually the manufacturing of notably sturdy thunderstorms and even dreaded supercells.
While supercells are the least widespread sort of thunderstorm, they have a tendency to provide extra excessive climate occasions like heavy rain, excessive lightning, and hail. Yes, supercells are additionally vulnerable to the form of higher ambiance circulation that may start a twister. While there is no method to cease tornados from occurring in Tornado Alley, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) continues to review climate patterns all through the area. Combined with technological advances including the potential use of predictive AI and even help from NASA satellites, early warning indicators are higher than they’ve ever been in historical past, and if you’re coping with the damaging forces of a twister, an early warning might be the distinction between life and demise.
Over the final 15–20 years, Ram Trucks haven’t earned the perfect repute for reliability. Repair Pal’s reliability score for the 1500 is 3.5/5, 2.5/5 for the 2500, and solely 2/5 for the 3500. Thankfully, as with most producers, there are all the time mannequin years that appear to buck that development. Ram produces some distinctive vehicles; it simply takes just a little digging to search out the gems.
As Repair Pal’s general rating would suggest, the 1500 appears to be essentially the most dependable throughout the board, however given not all customers are out there for a half-ton, we have opted to incorporate some 2500 and 3500 fashions on account of their unimaginable towing capabilities. After all, towing and payload capability signify important data for the potential truck purchaser.
To make this checklist as goal as doable, we have used rankings from Cars.com and J.D.Power to kind the rating. It’s essential to notice, nonetheless, that a lot consideration was given to the widespread issues reported on CarComplaints.com in an effort to advocate essentially the most succesful vehicles with the best chance of dependability.
We spotlight the similarities and variations between RAM’s heavy-duty line of pickups and what they pack for 2024
In order to provide the most recent and correct data doable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Ramtrucks.com, Caranddriver.com, CarComplaints.com, and Repairpal.com. Each automobile is ranked with consideration given to towing capability and reliability.
102017 Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins
Reliability Score: 76/100 (J.D.Power)
If you do not purchase vehicles merely for each day driving duties, you will doubtless need some critical functionality. With 800 lb-ft of torque and an almost 18,000 kilos towing capability, you would be hard-pressed to search out your self wanting extra on this Cummins-powered behemoth. Fortunately, although sustaining trendy diesels may be fairly pricey, the 2017 Ram 2500 has the bottom annual working value (for 2500s) at $839, in keeping with Repair Pal.
Performance Specifications
Engine
6.7L I6 Cummins Diesel
Transmission
Aisin HD 6-Speed Auto/G56 6-Speed Manual
Horsepower
370
Torque
800 lb-ft
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
17,980
Payload Capacity
3,160 (max)
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
Though J.D.Power solely offers the 2017 Ram 2500 a 77/100 for reliability, the 2017 mannequin 12 months is the least problematic 12 months of the fourth-generation Ram, in keeping with CarComplaints. There are some points reported with the ABS, however the points are minimal in comparison with the 2018 mannequin 12 months, which had the best recorded stage of complaints between 2012 and 2023. Ultimately, although nonetheless pricey in comparison with a smaller truck like a Tacoma or perhaps a Ram 1500, the 2017 2500 is actually a stable alternative.
92020 Ram 2500 6.7 Cummins
Reliability Score: 4.0/5.0 (Cars.com)
While the 2017 Ram 2500 has practically the identical towing and payload capability because the 2020 Ram 2500, the 2020 mannequin 12 months advantages from being a part of the newest technology of Ram pickups. The earlier technology was launched in the beginning of the Obama administration, so understandably, the inside was a bit dated. Not solely does the design of the newer Ram seem extra trendy, however Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are provided by Chrysler’s extremely regarded UConnect infotainment system.
Performance Specifications
Engine
6.7L I6 Cummins Diesel
Transmission
68RFE 6-Speed Auto
Horsepower
370
Torque
850 lb-ft
Driveline
4×2/4×4
Towing Capacity
19,680
Payload Capacity
2,810 (max)
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
Though it’s tough to find out reliability early in a automobile’s life cycle, customers at Cars.com have rated its reliability at a wholesome 4.0/5.0. There are just a few remembers any potential consumers ought to be certain that have been taken care of, together with one in regards to the high-pressure gasoline pump, in keeping with Car Complaints. That mentioned, there do not look like any main powertrain points reported right now. The projected reliability, together with the mix of kind and performance, offers the 2020 Ram 2500 good justification to seem on our checklist…and possibly yours too.
82018 Ram 1500 5.7L
Reliability Score: 81/100 (J.D.Power)
If towing a small moon is not in your checklist of necessities, choosing a 1500 fitted with the 5.7L Hemi would doubtless be the most affordable route. The Hemi might not be as robust because the Cummins, however with a towing capability of over 10,000 lbs, it stays loads succesful for the typical shopper. The 2018 mannequin 12 months, particularly, stands out as the primary 12 months with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided.
Performance Specifications
Engine
5.7L Hemi V8
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
395
Torque
410 lb-ft
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
10,620
Payload Capacity
1,790
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
When it involves reliability, the 2018 mannequin 12 months is the least problematic of the earlier technology Ram, in keeping with Car Complaints. Now, it actually will not be as low-cost to run as a Toyota Camry, however Repair Pal studies 2018 to have the bottom annual restore value of all years from 2011-2019 at solely $539. It might not be cutting-edge, however a great mixture of recent facilities and reliability makes 2018 a fairly protected wager within the used truck market.
Next-Level Pickup Luxury: RAM 1500 Suspension System Redefines Comfort and Convenience.
72019 Ram 3500 6.7L Cummins
Reliability Score: 4.1/5.0 (Cars.com)
Okay, so possibly you do must tow a small moon. With the power to comfortably tow greater than 30,000 lbs, why not go for a truck with a four-digit torque quantity? 2019 is the primary 12 months of the newest technology. Usually, we advocate staying away from the primary mannequin 12 months, however given the powertrain is basically a carryover from the earlier gen, the chance appears to have been mitigated considerably. Like with the 2020 Ram 2500, you will be bathed within the newest tech, however not like the 2500, the 3500 would not get coil springs within the rear. Instead, you get good old school leaf springs. The journey may be a bit bumpier, however the trade-off is the next payload.
Performance Specifications
Engine
6.7L Cummins High-Output Diesel
Transmission
Aisin HD 6-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
400
Torque
1,000 lb-ft
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
35,100 (Max)
Payload Capacity
6,570 (Max)
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
Though Repair Pal would not but supply knowledge on yearly operating prices, the 2011-2017 common is $1,270 yearly, so we might count on 2019 to be in that vary. According to Car Complaints, the 2019 mannequin 12 months is among the 3500’s least problematic years, making it an excellent alternative for the customer who requires such immense functionality.
62017 Ram 3500 6.7L Cummins
Reliability Score: 4.2/5.0 (Cars.com)
2017 appears to be a great 12 months for Ram vehicles, with this 3500 Cummins showing because the fourth entry on this checklist from that 12 months. 2017 was the second to final 12 months of fourth-generation Ram pickups, and automotive producers are inclined to have ironed out the kinks by the tip of a technology. Despite this 2017 mannequin showcasing comparable towing, payload, and torque specs to 2019, it lacks Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a few of the newest tech options that could be important for the possible purchaser. That mentioned, being an older, barely easier machine may need some advantages for reliability.
Performance Specifications
Engine
6.7L Cummins High-Output Diesel
Transmission
Aisin HD 6-Speed Auto/G56 6-Speed Manual
Horsepower
385
Torque
900 lb-ft
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
31,210 (Max)
Payload Capacity
6,580 (Max)
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
The 2017 Ram 3500 Cummins would not initially look like the least problematic on Car Complaints, however a more in-depth look reveals that 2018 had over 300 studies of ABS-related failures by the NHTSA, whereas 2017 solely had 84. Additionally, the 2017 mannequin 12 months can also be reported by Repair Pal to have the least costly annual upkeep prices at $1184. Naturally, that’s nonetheless some huge cash, however in return, you recover from 30,000 lbs of towing capability and a truck with fewer issues reported than different 3500’s barely newer or older.
52023 Ram 1500 Classic 5.7L
Reliability Score: 88/100 (J.D.Power)
Ram Trucks
If you need your truck to have its underpinnings courting again to when Taylor Swift was only a nation singer, the 1500 Classic is for you. For these not intimately acquainted with Ram’s lineup, the Stellantis-owned producer sells each the brand new fifth-generation Ram 1500, which got here out in 2019, they usually promote the fourth-generation Ram 1500, which got here out in 2009.
This means the 1500 Classic begins at beneath $40k for a 4×4 outfitted truck in comparison with practically $48k for a brand new 1500. Given that the Classic may be bought with the 5.7L Hemi for simply $2,500 extra, you are taking a look at practically 400 hp and an virtually 11,000 lb towing capability for lower than a brand new RWD V6 Ram 1500.
Performance Specifications
Engine
5.7L Hemi
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
395
Torque
410 lb-ft
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
10,620
Payload Capacity
1,930
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
Aside from the specs and low-cost barrier to entry, the 1500 Classic scored a really spectacular 88/100 for reliability on J.D.Power. There are little to no issues talked about in Car Complaints, however that does not imply there will not be. That mentioned, the 1500 Classic advantages from its age, because it’s extra doubtless that issues from earlier years can have been sorted out by 2024. If you desire a extra old-school truck, however model new, it actually is tough to disregard the 1500 Classic.
With the costs of pickup vehicles going by the roof, is it price going for the most affordable mannequin within the nation?
42022 Ram 1500 3.6L
Reliability Score: 4.5/5.0 (Cars.com)
RAM
At the other finish of the spectrum to the 3500 6.7L Cummins, the 1500 outfitted with the three.6L Pentastar V6 is a stable alternative with a 4.5/5.0 reliability score on Cars.com. The 2020-2023 Ram’s already are typically rated increased with respect to reliability, however with a smaller engine sometimes comes smaller restore payments as effectively.
This is not all the time the case, however house owners have had optimistic issues to say about their V6 Ram expertise. There is not any knowledge on annual restore prices obtainable but, however we suspect it is going to be barely much less to function, keep, and restore in comparison with a comparable late-model Ram outfitted with the 5.7L Hemi V-8.
Performance Specifications
Engine
3.6L Pentastar V6
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
305
Torque
269 lb-ft
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
7,730
Payload Capacity
1,820
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
The V6 seems to be the precise alternative for truck consumers trying to make the most of the truck’s utility and never essentially for towing. However, the 7,730 lb towing capability is definitely greater than you will get from different naturally aspirated V-6 mid-size vehicles just like the Toyota Tacoma, Honda Ridgeline, and even the Chevy Colorado. Additionally, these different vehicles additionally can’t be outfitted with an 8′ mattress, whereas the 1500 can, giving it extra utility than its rivals.
32017 Ram 2500 5.7L
Reliability Score: 4.6/5.0 (Cars.com)
The 2017 Ram 2500 is a good center floor between the 1500 Hemi and the 2500/3500 Cummins. The ubiquitous Hemi V8 will not assist you to tow fairly as a lot at just below 12,000 kilos, however with the 2500 chassis the payload capability is elevated to over 3,000 kilos relying on the way you spec the truck. Not solely do you continue to get such spectacular numbers, however with a 4.6/5.0 for reliability on Cars.com, the fuel is 2500 slots above its diesel counterparts in terms of upkeep prices.
Performance Specifications
Engine
5.7L Hemi V8
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
383
Torque
400 lb-ft
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
11,890 (Max)
Payload Capacity
3,060 (Max)
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
If towing is not a typical requirement, this Hemi-powered 2500 actually is a good compromise that features the elevated functionality of the HD chassis in addition to the cheaper upkeep prices of the 1500 collection.
22017 Ram 1500 5.7L
Reliability Score: 4.6/5.0 (Cars.com)
The 2017 Ram 1500 is not a lot completely different from the 2018 featured at quantity 8, but it surely does signify the final 12 months the 6-speed automated was provided and lacks the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2017 does have a barely increased annual upkeep value at $568, in keeping with Repair Pal, however appears to have fewer reported electrical and gasoline system issues, in keeping with Car Complaints.
Performance Specifications
Engine
5.7L Hemi V8
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
395
Torque
410
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
10,620 (Max)
Payload Capacity
1,700 (Max)
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
The remaining years of the fourth-generation Ram 1500 appear to signify the candy spot for reliability, tech, and functionality. The 2017 Ram 1500 has its professionals and cons, like every truck included on this checklist, however with a 4.6/5.0 reliability score from Cars.com, it is price inclusion on anybody’s checklist.
Once once more elevating the bar for the 2024 mannequin 12 months, right here a ten of the perfect options for the highest-trim Ram 1500 Limited
12023 Ram 1500 5.7L
Reliability Score: 4.8/5.0 (Cars.com)
Ram
With a reliability score of 4.8/5.0 on Cars.com, the newest Ram 1500 seems to have numerous points sorted out. Given it is nonetheless new, we might count on no much less, however up to now, 2023 is shaping as much as be a stable 12 months for the half-ton American pickup.
Performance Specifications
Engine
5.7L Hemi
Transmission
8-Speed Automatic
Horsepower
395
Torque
410
Driveline
4×2, 4×4
Towing Capacity
12,750 (Max)
Payload Capacity
2,300 (Max)
(Data was collected from Ramtrucks.com)
Being the newest Ram means it will get all the newest goodies with respect to tech and passenger consolation, however extra importantly, 2023 represents the tip of an period. After the 2024 mannequin 12 months, the Ram 1500 is dropping the choice for the 5.7L V8 and might be changing it with the three.0L Hurricane inline-6. While the brand new I6 is extremely potent and sounds beautiful, reliability hasn’t been confirmed but. If you desire a confirmed old-school V8, get the Hemi when you nonetheless have the prospect.
Important data earlier than buying a Cummins Diesel:
Many Cummins fashions have been beneficial on this checklist. Cummins was just lately hit with a 1.675 Billion greenback settlement for allegedly knowingly installing emissions defeat devices of their vehicles. According to MotorTrend, 630,000 vehicles between 2013-2019 have been fitted with such units whereas one other 330,000 2020–2023 fashions might also have been affected.
London councils have earned almost £8.5 million from pavement parking fines in 2023, in keeping with knowledge obtained by Autocar.
A Freedom of Information request uncovered that within the 12 months main as much as November, £8,443,068 was earned by councils in London from penalty cost notices (PCNs) given to drivers who parked on a pavement.
Newham was discovered to be the preferred borough for such infractions, with greater than 21,000 PCNs issued – almost half of which (45%) have not but been paid.
Further analysis by Autocar revealed that almost a 3rd of all of the fines issued throughout London throughout that interval hadn’t been paid, with 167,066 issued and 111,495 paid.
Despite this, Newham council nonetheless earned £936,391 from pavement parking fines between January and November 2023.
Fines are handed to drivers discovered to be in breach of parking contravention code 62, which prevents vehicles from being parked with a number of wheels on the pavement.
The regulation additionally bans parking on footways, on footpaths, in entrance of dropped kerbs or on raised carriageways and is enforced all 12 months spherical.
Last week, this got here into drive in Scotland, with its authorities introducing a regulation that may make offenders pay as much as £100.
Autocar editor Mark Tisshaw mentioned: “Scotland is following London’s lead by clamping down on pavement parking, which might have critical penalties for pedestrians – particularly these with decreased mobility.
“Drivers throughout the nation – in each rural and concrete areas – want to grasp the principles to keep away from being fined.”
In the capital, fines gathered from parking infractions are certain by regulation to be put again into the mayor’s transport technique, which was launched in 2018 and includes an enchancment in public transport and jobs and houses created for London residents.
The cash will due to this fact be invested in off-street parking, public transport providers and freeway upkeep.
Known for his aggressive driving style and sheer determination, Nigel Mansell earned his stripes with a career that spanned across both Formula One and IndyCar championships. He is one of the few drivers to have held the F1 World Championship and the CART Indy Car World Series titles, underlining his versatility and skill in the sport. Today marks an unprecedented opportunity for motorsports aficionados, especially Formula One and IndyCar fans, as Nigel Mansell’s Legacy Collection is finally available to the public from RM Sotheby’s. Hailing from Mansell’s personal museum in Jersey, this exclusive collection includes pivotal items that tell the tale of the 1992 F1 World Champion’s illustrious racing journey. For the first time ever, iconic trophies from his 1992 and 1993 championship years in both F1 and IndyCar are up for grabs.
But the collection offers much more than trophies. If you’ve ever dreamt of owning race-worn memorabilia, here’s your chance to score helmets, suits, boots, and gloves that Mansell himself sported on the track. Additionally, the auction includes an array of promotional clothing, paddock essentials, podium caps, steering wheels, and even motorcycles. With 330 lots offered without reserve, this Legacy Collection is an unparalleled opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts alike to own a piece of motorsports history. So if you’re a Nigel Mansell fan or simply passionate about the world of high-speed racing, don’t miss out on this chance to acquire items of monumental historical significance. Nigel Mansell’s Legacy Collection auction from RM Sotheby’s is scheduled to run from October 4th to 11th. View all of the collectibles featured in RM Sotheby’s upcoming auction event by clicking the link below.
The GMC Hummer EV, known for its size and speed, will soon be getting an overlanding upfit from EarthCruiser. A teaser photo shared by GMC and EarthCruiser reveals a pop-top camper specifically designed for the Hummer EV. The camper shell fits snugly against the truck’s short bed and angled C-pillar and extends all the way to the front of the cab. The roof lifts up to create space above the truck, and there appears to be a porch at the rear. The teaser does not show any obvious off-road upgrades, but the GMC Hummer EV already offers an adjustable suspension and 35-inch tires as part of its off-road package. EarthCruiser is known for building large adventure vehicles, so this compact camper build is expected to include a variety of camping amenities. The official debut date of the Hummer EV with the EarthCruiser upfit has not been announced, but it is expected to be revealed in August, possibly at the Overland Expo Mountain West in Colorado.
Mike LaRocco earned the 1993 500 National Championship, but never got to defend it. The AMA no longer recognized the class from 1994 forward. How could the 500s go from being the most prestigious class in motocross to being dropped? In the December, 1993 issue of Dirt Bike, Roger DeCoster told us how it went down.
Congratulations and condolences to Mike LaRocco. Last month he wrapped up his first 500 National Championship. Unfortunately, it will also be his last. In fact, it will be America’s last. Mike will never even get to ride with his #1 plate, because next year there will be no 500 class in America.
Even in Europe, the 500 class is taking a back seat, with the FIM directing TV coverage to the 250s and the manufacturers directing their teams likewise. What happened? How is it possible that the 500 National Championship, once the most prestigious class in motocross, has come to an end? It’s a complicated issue, but in truth, the 500 class hasn’t suddenly dropped dead just now. This is only the burial. The class actually died, or at least began to die, back in the early ’80s. That was when various forces first started to combine to eventually result in this situation. The first factor was the rise of Supercross as a 250/125-only sport. Open-class bikes simply weren’t suited for tight stadium tracks, so they were excluded and relegated to outdoor-only tracks. It didn’t take long for manufacturers to realize that Supercross was where the bulk of MX spectators were. Soon, most of each company’s development effort was concentrated on the 250 class. Marketing executives wanted their teams to win in front of the big Supercross crowds, so the factories went all-out and made major changes to the 250s more often than the other models.
Mike LaRocco rides with his number one plate on his KX500 for a Dirt Dike Photo shoot. He never got to race with it, at least not in the U.S.
The next blow to the 500 class came in the form of a worldwide sales slump in the mid-’80s. Motocross bikes were less affected by the slump than street models, but nonetheless the factories suddenly had fewer resources to draw upon for racing. Suzuki and Yamaha made the first big cutbacks, deciding to stop competing in the 500 class in both Europe and the U.S. Their Open bikes had sold poorly–Suzuki stopped manufacturing its RM500 altogether. In the U.S., that left Honda and Kawasaki as the only two manufacturers to support the 500 class.
Another factor was the changing nature of track design. Outdoor tracks became more and more like supercross. It was only natural–spectators got used to seeing riders get big air in stadiums and began to expect it outdoors, too. Also, young riders wanted more jumps. They had grown up learning to double jump before they even knew how to ride down a rough straight. Those kinds of tracks are more suited to 250s.
Jeff Ward’s 1990 KX500 was almost the same bike as LaRocco’s in 1993.
So, now we get to the point where there are not enough teams in the 500 class, not enough riders and not enough bikes. It was time for the burial. At this point, it seems silly to point out what could have been done to save the class. Some action would have been better than no action, though. While I don’t have all the answers, I think the class could have been saved if early action had been taken, both in Europe and in the U.S. In Europe, the FIM is notorious for ignoring problems or denying that they exist. It would have been possible to design tracks with Open bikes in mind, for example. It’s kind of boring to watch a 500 on a really tight track, but the sounds and the power that a big 500 makes when it has a little open space are exciting in a very different way. I think spectators would respond to that and be eager to see 500s in the right environment. That, in turn, might have brought more sales to the 500 class.
Roger DeCoster performed his own 500 shootout in the pages of Dirt Bike in 1995. Click on the image above to see which was his favorite.
Another possibility might have been to enforce the production rule in just two classes while the 500 class was left open to works bikes. In Europe and in the U.S., each class could have its attraction: The 500 class would be for works bikes, and maybe even four-strokes in the future, the 250 class for production-based 250s, and the 125 class for younger riders. Now the 125 class has the most rigorous travel schedule in both Europe and the U.S. In America, the 125 outdoor schedule is as long as the 250 and 500 circuits put together, and in Europe the 125s are required to travel to South America twice in the series. With less travel and perhaps an age limit (or a champion-moves-up rule like the U.S. had), the 125 class would be cheaper for manufacturers as well as privateers, allowing budgets to be stretched to cover all three classes.
At any rate, the time for thinking about what could have been done is past. It’s more beneficial to think about the future and what will fill the place of the 500 National series here in the U.S. I think the AMA’s plan is a good one. The 500 class will be replaced by a new six- to eight-race series called the “Fall Classic” (interesting how it could become a classic before the first race is run). By the time you read this, the new series will already be underway. The attraction of the new series will be the fact that it will be open to any bike over 250cc. No weight limit, no production rule, two-stroke or four-stroke, as big as you like. In a way, it’s an attempt to revive the old Trans AMA series.
The rules, or the lack of rules, might stir up some interest in big bikes. Someone like Eyvind Boyesen might send a rider to test some new ideas in an actual race. I don’t think there will be many works bikes from Europe showing up, though–basically, there aren’t any, aside from Jacky Martens’ Husqvarna four-stroke. Still, the possibility is there.
Whether or not he rides, I think that Martens will have an effect on this new series in the U.S. He just won the 500 GP title in Europe on his thumper, becoming the first rider to do so since Jeff Smith did it in ’65 with his works BSA. On top of that, Joel Smets finished third on a Husaberg four-stroke this year. This seems to be generating a resurgence of interest in four-stroke motocross. This new class is a natural for four-strokes. In the future, it might even be conceivable to change it to an all-four-stroke series, although if that were to happen right now, they might have a hard time filling the gate. It will be interesting to watch and see if interest keeps going in that direction. The sounds alone might be enough to draw spectators to big four-stroke races. I have even heard that Honda has talked with Martens about testing a new four-stroke in Europe next year, with the intention of racing it in ’95. Wouldn’t that be an interesting twist?
So while I would be dishonest if I said the death of the 500 class didn’t disappoint me, I think it’s pointless to mourn for it now. The future actually looks more exciting than it has in years. Motocross, as always, is in the process of big change–and change isn’t such a bad thing.
Toyota is a well-known car brand known for delivering reliable, cost-effective, and practical cars. Their dedication to safety and engineering excellence has made them one of the best-selling automakers in the world.
While their main models like the Corolla, Camry, and RAV4 are popular for everyday use, Toyota also occasionally releases more special vehicles. In recent years, they have introduced the new Supra, redesigned Tundra, and the Crown sedan.
Toyota has recently announced two new generations of well-established models, the Alphard and the Vellfire, which aim to challenge luxury models from other brands like Mercedes and BMW.
The fourth-generation Alphard and Vellfire feature a stylish and dignified exterior design, with sharp edges and a powerful grille. Both models have their own unique features and design elements that set them apart from the competition.
Pros
More aggressive look
Great front end design
Interesting paint options
Upgraded materials
Cool and unique grilles
Cons
Not the best looking rear end
Boxy design
Weird backwards spike between front and rear doors
The Alphard and Vellfire have spacious and luxurious interiors, with additional legroom and adjustable seats. They feature a combination of leather and wood finishes, sound-absorbing materials, reclining seats with footrests, and personal control screens for rear passengers.
Despite some minor differences in design and features, it can be difficult to distinguish between the Alphard and Vellfire. They feel more like different trim levels of the same car rather than separate models with unique identities.
Both the Alphard and Vellfire come with new gasoline and hybrid powertrain options. They are built on the TNGA platform to provide a smooth and comfortable ride. The pricing for these models varies depending on the trim level and powertrain.
Toyota’s goal with the new Alphard and Vellfire is to provide a luxury and comfortable chauffeur experience for all customers. However, their attempt to differentiate the two models and their approach to comfort and luxury design can be confusing at times.
Overall, the Alphard and Vellfire represent Toyota’s commitment to innovation and luxury. Despite some mixed messaging in terms of design and identity, these MPVs are expected to continue being top-sellers in their market segment.
The information presented in this article was sourced from the press releases of Toyota Global.
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