If you want to keep your car in good shape, a pressure washer may be the answer. These increasingly popular tools are affordable, easy to use, and can effectively blast away salt and muck from your car’s bodywork.
Not only do pressure washers offer a superior clean compared to the traditional sponge-and-hose technique, but they also use less water.
However, with so many options available, choosing the right pressure washer can be tricky. Factors such as size, power, attachments, cost, and quality all come into play. In this article, we reveal which pressure washers are worth your money.
Vital stats: Max pressure 135 bar. Max flow 384 litres/hour. Motor power 1900W
The Bosch Universal Aquatak 135 tops our pressure washer test for several reasons. Firstly, it offers excellent high-pressure performance and comes with a good selection of accessories, all at an affordable price. Secondly, it has a sleek and compact design with a hinged and foldable rear handle, giving it a sturdy and well-made feel. The ‘Trio Nozzle’ feature allows easy switching between a pencil, fan, or turbo jet spray, eliminating the hassle of changing attachments. The only improvement it could have is a reel for the hose, which tends to be long but loose.
Recommended – Nilfisk Core 140 PowerControl Premium with Car Cleaning Kit
We have recently seen the introduction of five new SUVs with all-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4X4) options in the past 12 months. This is great news for those who are looking for additional traction capabilities without compromising on comfort. These SUVs are also priced below Rs 20 lakh (ex-showroom) and come with plenty of creature comforts.
Let’s take a closer look at these SUVs:
1. Maruti Grand Vitara AWD:
– Price: Rs 16.91 lakh
– The Maruti Grand Vitara is one of the only two compact SUVs in India that come with all-wheel drive.
– It offers four driving modes – Auto, Sport, Snow, and Lock.
– In Lock mode, torque is distributed equally among all four wheels for maximum traction.
– The AWD powertrain is paired with a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a 5-speed manual transmission.
2. Toyota Hyryder AWD:
– Price: Rs 17.21 lakh
– The Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder is a rebadged version of the Grand Vitara and also comes with all-wheel drive.
– It shares the same drivetrain and driving modes as the Grand Vitara.
– It is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
– The Hyryder is the most affordable off-road friendly Toyota SUV in India.
3. Maruti Jimny 4X4:
– Price Range: Rs 12.74 lakh to Rs 15.05 lakh
– The Jimny is a highly anticipated entrant in the 4X4 space and is considered a replacement for the Gypsy.
– It features a proper 4X4 drivetrain with a low range gearbox and brake limited slip differential.
– The Jimny is equipped with hill hold and descent control for better off-roading capabilities.
– It is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine and offers both manual and automatic transmission options.
4. Mahindra Scorpio N 4WD:
– Price Range: Rs 17.69 lakh to Rs 24.52 lakh
– The Scorpio N is a full generation update of the popular SUV, offering both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options.
– It comes with shift-on-fly 4WD, a low range gearbox, and four traction control modes.
– The Scorpio N is available with 2-litre turbo-petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engines, with both manual and automatic transmission options.
5. Hyundai Tucson AWD:
– Price: Rs 35.46 lakh
– The facelifted Tucson still retains the AWD option.
– It features an all-wheel drivetrain with a lock mode and three terrain modes – Snow, Mud, and Sand.
– The Tucson is powered by 2-litre petrol and diesel engines, with automatic transmissions.
In addition to these SUVs, there are other AWD and 4WD cars available in India such as the Mahindra XUV700, Mahindra Thar, Jeep Compass, and Force Gurkha.
Since its debut as Lamborghini’s latest off-road capable supercar, car enthusiasts and collectors have been fascinated by the adventurous style of the new Huracán Sterrato. This exclusive variant of the brand’s iconic model is produced in a limited batch of just 1,499 chassis, representing the Italian supercar manufacturer’s commitment to exclusivity and innovation. The dedicated team of experts at Lamborghini Miami is proud to showcase the first Lamborghini Huracán at their dealership in sunny South Florida. Prestige Imports, also known as Lamborghini Miami, recently revealed their first Huracán Sterrato on Instagram, alongside a perfectly customized Huracán STO.
The exterior of the Huracán Sterrato features a pristine Bianco Monocerus finish with matte black off-road upgrades, including protective fender flares, front-mounted LED lights, lower skid plates, a roof rack, and a roof-mounted engine intake. To highlight its all-around capabilities, Lamborghini Miami has even attached a lightweight Specialized road bike, showcasing its functionality as a daily driving supercar. With an upgraded suspension for increased ground clearance and a set of all-terrain tires, the Sterrato stands out alongside its race-inspired Huracán STO sibling. As Lamborghini Miami secures its allocation of the first Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato, they expressed their excitement by captioning their Instagram post with “we can’t wait to show you what it can do.” For a complete list of Lamborghini Miami’s inventory for sale, visit their duPont REGISTRY page by clicking the link below.
If you’ve ever dreamt of cruising around town in a sleek, luxurious Lexus without breaking the bank, then you’re in for a treat. We’ve scoured the market and uncovered a hidden treasure trove of 10 bargain Lexus models that will leave you wondering if it’s your lucky day.
When it comes to combining luxury features with a good dose of wood and leather, a high-level of equipment, elegance, and dependability, Lexus is up there with some of the very best in automotive world. From their striking exterior designs to their plush interiors, these cars are designed to make heads turn while pampering you with unmatched comfort.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. Luxury often comes with a hefty price tag, right? Well, not this time! We’ve rounded up an assortment of these refined rides that won’t drain your wallet faster than a race car at the finish line.
Data such as reliability information based upon owner feedback on CarSurvey, where as prices, and model specs have been sourced from sites like Edmunds, and Motor Trend.
Front and side of a white 2011 Lexus CT 200h parked
The CT200h is Lexus’s premium compact hatchback, known for its luxurious features and hybrid technology. It is built on Toyota’s MC platform and is the first luxury compact and hatchback hybrid, based on the Toyota Prius drivetrain. The car made its debut at the March 2010 Geneva International Motor Show, shortly after the unveiling of the LF-Ch concept car. Notably, it was the first model in Lexus’s family to showcase the distinctive “Spindle Grille” design on its fascia.
The CT 200h features a 1.8-liter VVT-i four-cylinder gasoline engine, generating 98 horsepower. Combined with an electric motor, the hybrid system delivers a total output of 134 horsepower.
When the CT 200h was launched in 2011, Lexus demonstrated its foresight as it was years ahead of other premium carmakers in championing hybrid hatchbacks. At that time, hybrid technology in a compact luxury car was a rarity, but it has now become more commonplace in the industry.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
Customer feedback on the Lexus CT 200h reveals highly positive experiences. One owner, initially skeptical about hybrids, found the car reliable and efficient. They rated it a perfect 10/10 on reliability. Another owner praised the flawless performance, exceptional fuel efficiency, and superior comfort compared to his previously owned Honda Accord, rating the CT 200h 9/10 for reliability.
Problems Owners Report: Navigation System Glitches
Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 187,000 miles
92011 Lexus ES 350
Average Price: $10,000 to $13,000
Lexus
Front and side shot of a black 2011 Lexus ES 350 driving on a road
The Lexus ES 350 is a luxurious midsize sedan that offers a refined driving experience. In its earlier generations, the ES used the Toyota Camry platform, while the later ones share a closer association with the Avalon. The ES 350 prioritizes comfort and elegance, boasting a plush cabin adorned with high-quality leather upholstery and exquisite wood trim.
With its 3.5-liter V-6 engine generating 268 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the ES 350 delivers smooth and capable performance. The sedan impresses with its serene highway ride, where minimal wind, road, or engine noise intrudes. Its suspension system ensures a comfortable journey, effortlessly absorbing bumps and ruts on the road, ensuring passengers enjoy a tranquil and undisturbed experience.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
A Lexus ES 350 owner on CarSurvey rated the 10/10 on reliability. He bought the car used with 142,000 miles on the odometer and stated that the “car delivers on giving you the best bang for your buck.”
Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 160,000 miles
82003 Lexus LS 430
Average Price: $9,000 to $11,000
Lexus
Front and side shot of a gray 2003 Lexus lS 430 parked near a lake
The Lexus LS 430, a full-size luxury sedan, once proudly served as the flagship model of the Lexus brand. With its third-generation release, this vehicle introduced notable advancements in both performance and design. Notably, it featured a newly designed six-speed automatic transmission and a 4.3-liter V-8, enhancing the driving experience. The exterior also received a refreshing makeover, boasting revised styling that exuded elegance and sophistication.
The LS 430 also enjoyed impressive commercial success, surpassing the sales figures of its predecessor. Its popularity was evident, with production figures exceeding a remarkable 140,000 units. Part of its appeal stemmed from its meticulous engineering and aerodynamic design.
Tested in the same wind tunnel as Japan’s high-speed bullet trains, the LS 430 boasted a sleek and streamlined shape. Equipped with the available Air Suspension, it achieved an outstanding coefficient of drag (CD) of 0.25, the lowest among passenger sedans at the time. This greatly improved its smoothness on the road along with its fuel efficiency.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
In a CarSurvey review, an owner of a Lexus LS 430, who purchased the car with 180,000 miles on it, rated its reliability a perfect 10/10. They expressed their satisfaction by stating, “The reliability of this car, coupled with its ease of maintenance, has made it quite possibly the finest luxury vehicle for long-term ownership.” Another owner also awarded it a flawless 10/10 for reliability, praising its outstanding build quality and the remarkable Mark Levinson sound system.
Step inside the LS 460, and you’ll be greeted by a world of opulence. The interior is a harmonious blend of sumptuous materials and ergonomic design. Sink into the plush leather seats that envelop you in comfort akin to resting on a cloud. The avant-garde elegance of the dashboard, with its flowing lines and intuitive controls, feels like a symphony of design, enhancing the overall luxurious experience.
Safety is a top priority in the 2009 LS 460, and it delivers without compromise. Equipped with advanced features like adaptive cruise control, it maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. The blind-spot monitoring system keeps you informed of any vehicles lurking in your blind spots, ensuring confident and secure driving.
Not only does the LS 460 offer luxury and safety, but it also boasts reliability and durability. Built with robust engineering and meticulous craftsmanship, this vehicle has a solid reputation for going the distance without breaking a sweat. With the LS 460 by your side, you can rest easy knowing that it will remain a faithful companion for years to come.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
After driving the car for 25,000 miles an owner on CarSurvey gave the LS 460 a reliability rating of 10/10 stating that “The build quality is faultless, interior materials are top notch.”
Problems Owners Report: Steering Column Noise
Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 78,000 miles
62013 Lexus GX 460
Average Price: $19,000 to $20,000
Lexus
Front and side shot of a gray 2013 Lexus GX 460 parked
The Lexus GX 460 is a luxurious mid-size SUV that exudes elegance. It first graced the stage in China at the Guangzhou International Automobile Exhibition in November 2009, making quite an impression.
This refined vehicle takes inspiration from the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, inheriting its impressive off-road capabilities. How does it achieve this? Well, it boasts a sturdy body-on-frame construction, full-time four-wheel drive, an electronically controlled hi-lo transfer case, and a reliable Torsen center locking differential.
RepairPal gives the GX 460 an above average reliability rating of 3.5/5 which ranks it 5th out of 14 for luxury midsize SUVs available in its price range.
Problems Owners Report: low gas mileage
Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: —
52009 Lexus RX 350
Average Price: $8,000 to $9,000
Via Mecum Auctions
Front 3/4 shot of crystal white 2009 Lexus RX 350 parked
The Lexus RX is widely regarded as the first luxury crossover SUV, and the 2009 Lexus RX 350 exemplifies the essence of this class. Built on a car platform, specifically the 2002-’06 Toyota Camry, this model showcases the successful fusion of luxury and utility.
Lexus unveiled the third-generation RX on November 19, 2008, and American sales of the RX 350 began in February 2009, as a 2010 model. Even when pitted against more modern rivals, the 2009 Lexus RX 350 remains a prime illustration of what a luxury crossover SUV should be.
True to Lexus’ reputation, the 2009 RX 350 boasts a refined and composed personality. Its 3.5-liter V-6 engine provides swift and quiet acceleration, complemented by a serene cabin ambiance. The interior design of this entry-level luxury SUV is so remarkable that it could be mistaken for Lexus’ flagship model. Featuring real wood and leather trim on the console, door panels, and steering wheel, lending an air of opulence.
Additionally, the optional Mark Levinson sound system surpasses expectations, rivaling the finest audio systems available. The voice-activated navigation system, another optional feature, stands out for its exceptionally user-friendly interface. Together, these elements elevate the driving experience in the 2009 Lexus RX 350 to new heights.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
An owner of a 2010 Lexus RX 350 gave the car an exceptional reliability rating of 8/10 in his review on CarSurvey. He purchased the vehicle with 18,000 miles on the odometer and, after driving it for an additional 4,000 miles, stated that “The Lexus RX 350 is very powerful, very fast, and has a very firm suspension.”
Problems Owners Report: Transmission failure at 76000 miles
Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 51,700 miles
The Lexus IS holds a prominent position as an entry-level sport model in the Lexus lineup, positioned below the ES. Serving as the brand’s response to competitors such as the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Infiniti G37, and BMW 3 Series, the Lexus IS lineup embodies the perfect balance of performance and luxury.
The third-generation IS made its debut at the Paris Motor Show on October 2, 2008, showcasing the evolution of this renowned model. Stepping inside the IS, one is greeted by a luxurious interior adorned with leather and wood accents. The available features include heated and ventilated front seats, driver seat memory, a 14-speaker surround sound audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation. These amenities contribute to a comfortable and technologically advanced driving experience.
In terms of safety, the IS line prioritizes the well-being of its occupants. Standard safety features include dual front airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags. Furthermore, the IS comes equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, four-channel ABS (anti-lock braking system), electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, traction control, and stability control. These systems work together to ensure precise braking, optimal traction, and enhanced stability during various driving conditions.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
After driving it for 4,000 miles, an owner of the Lexus IS 250 gave the car a reliability rating of 10/10 on CarSurvey, stating that he “feels like it will last a century”. Another owner gave it a 9/10 and complimented the car’s handling and build quality.
Problems Owners Report: Lacks power
Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 30,700 miles
32003 Lexus LX 470
Average Price: $19,000 to $20,000
Lexus
Front and side shot of a 2003 Lexus LX 470 parked off-road
The Lexus LX 470, introduced in January 1996, is a full-size luxury SUV that holds the distinction of being Lexus’ largest and most expensive luxury SUV. It has undergone four generations of production, all heavily based on the renowned Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs.
The off-roader possesses a robust and solid appearance that conveys strength and durability, making it ideal for any adventurous endeavor. The front grille stands out with its confident and commanding presence, enhanced by chrome accents that lend a touch of sophistication, contributing to the overall polished look of the vehicle.
Stepping inside the LX 470, you enter a world of unparalleled comfort and luxury. The cabin serves as a haven of plushness and craftsmanship, boasting sumptuous leather seats adorned with wood trim and soft ambient lighting. When it comes to performance, the LX 470 delivers an impressive punch. Housing a mighty 235 horsepower 4.7-liter V8 engine beneath its hood.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
This SUV received an outstanding reliability rating of 10/10 from a satisfied owner on CarSurvey. According to their feedback, they described it as a smooth-riding vehicle that is both practical and visually appealing. Additionally, another owner on Edmunds gave it a perfect reliability rating of 5/5 stating that the LX 470 is “Rock solid in the snow and rain and very reliable.”
Problems Owners Report: Exhaust rattle
Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 54,000 miles
22002 Lexus SC 430
Average Price: $11,000 to $12,000
Lexus
Front and side shot of a gray 2002 Lexus SC 430
The Lexus SC 430, a grand tourer that graced our roads from 1991 until 2010, had a lot going for it. It was a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive roadster with room for up to four passengers. It proudly claimed the title of being the first convertible ever offered by Lexus.
The production version of the SC 430’s second generation made its debut at the New York Auto Show. With sweeping fender flares, a sculpted hood, and a broad-brushed grille, its exterior look bore a resemblance to the Audi TT, albeit on a slightly larger scale.
Step inside, and you’ll find that the interior of the SC 430 maintains the elegant and modern simplicity of its exterior. It’s like a symphony of real wood and leather, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury. And here’s something unconventional: many of the controls, such as the stereo, are cleverly hidden by spring-loaded wooden covers. It gives the console an uncluttered feel, almost like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.
An owner on CarSurvey that had acquired the car with 160,000 miles on the odometer gave the SC 430 a 9/10 reliability rating stating that the car was a “High quality, reliable grand tourer”. Another owner and Edmunds gave the car a 4/5 on its reliability. After driving it for 86,000 miles he stated that the car still “runs great and is still fun to drive.”
Problems Owners Report: VVTI hub and power steering pump oil leaks
Highest Mileage Reported On Carsurvey: 169,900 miles
Front and side shot of a red 2010 Lexus HS 250h parked
In January 2009, at the North American International Auto Show, the HS 250h was unveiled, captivating audiences with its eco-friendly prowess. It hit the Japanese market in July 2009, followed by the United States in August of the same year.
What made the HS 250h truly special was that it represented the first dedicated hybrid vehicle in the Lexus lineup. It also boasted the distinction of being the first to offer an inline-four gasoline engine. Talk about breaking new ground!
Underneath its sleek exterior, the HS 250h borrowed its powertrain from the Camry Hybrid, providing a boost in size and power compared to the Prius. With this setup, it could sprint from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a respectable 8.7 seconds, which was quite impressive for a hybrid vehicle.
But it’s not just about performance. Behind the wheel, the 2010 Lexus HS 250h effortlessly exuded upscale luxury. Its supple ride, quiet cabin, and competent handling elevated the driving experience to a whole new level.
When it came to technology, the HS 250h had plenty to offer. A pop-up navigation and infotainment system with a Remote Touch controller stole the show, making interaction a breeze. A Mark Levinson premium sound system provided a symphony for the ears. And let’s not forget about safety – the HS 250h came equipped with an array of advanced systems, including Intelligent Highbeam (IHB), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), and onboard cameras, ensuring peace of mind on every journey.
Reliability Based On Owner Feedback
On Edmunds, there was an owner who purchased an HS 250h with a previous mileage of 93,000 miles. Despite the higher mileage, the owner was extremely pleased with the car’s performance and gave it a perfect reliability rating of 5/5. In their review, they clarified that if you’re searching for a performance sports car, the HS 250h may not be the ideal choice. However, if you desire a luxurious vehicle that sips gas and offers a comfortable cruise around town, then this car is certainly the ticket.
The Ferrari 250 LM is considered one of the greatest vintage Ferrari models ever made. While it may not be as famous as the 250 GTO or the Testa Rossa, the 250 LM, also known as Le Mans, shares the same Colombo V12 engine and a sleek aluminum body over a steel tube chassis. However, what sets the 250 LM apart is its mid-engine layout, which Ferrari designed for dominance in GT class competitions.
Ferrari produced a total of 32 examples of the 250 LM. The car up for auction, chassis number 6053, is the 22nd car in the production line and holds a well-documented and detailed history. It has been showcased at prestigious events such as the 2022 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the 2021 Ferrari Finals at Mugello, and the Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena. Prior to its exhibition life, the car was actively involved in racing.
Now more than ever, people are focusing on the small aspects when it comes to improving the performance of their motorcycles. If before, the focus was sheer riding enjoyment, these days, it’s shedding even the smallest amount of weight, squeezing out tiny bits of power, or improving downforce.
Speaking of the latter, we’ve seen more and more sportbikes enter the market with winglets fitted as standard – a feature that was once considered outlandish and excessive. Indeed, at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour, these winglets play a role in keeping the front wheel firmly on the ground, so it’s understandable that they’re fitted on some of the top-tier supersports. That being said, not all sportbikes are equipped with winglets, and for whatever reason, you may want to have a set fitted onto your bike.
Luckily, Spanish aftermarket specialist Puig has just released aftermarket options for a variety of motorcycles. According to Puig, its designs were tested in a virtual wind tunnel based on MotoGP models. The brand promises some real-world aerodynamic benefits, with some models producing up to 3.5 kilograms of downforce at speeds of 130 miles per hour. At 187 miles per hour – speeds achievable only at the circuit – the winglets are said to provide up to 8 kilos of downforce.
While this is cool and all, the majority of superbike owners who mainly ride on the street will benefit mostly from the aesthetic benefit this aftermarket upgrade provides. I mean, who doesn’t love a sportbike that looks like a MotoGP race bike for the road? As for rigidity and longevity, expect nothing less from Puig, as the Spanish brand has been making aftermarket accessories for the world’s top bikes for decades now. The winglets are made of four-millimeter thick, UV-resistant plastic, and depending on the model, are either bolted onto existing screw points, or mounted with adhesive.
Installation is super straightforward, too, according to Puig, with the winglet for the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade taking just 15 minutes to install. Of course, the installation procedure on different bikes will vary, but Puig states that its winglets don’t necessitate the drilling of additional holes to your bike’s precious fairings.
It isn’t just sportbikes that benefit from this upgrade, either. Naked bikes like the Kawasaki Z900 and Yamaha MT-09 can also be fitted with Puig’s winglets designed specifically for naked bikes. The brand new Honda CB750 Hornet will also get a set of winglets, though these bikes aren’t exactly known for being able to breach 140 miles per hour.
As for pricing, well it depends on your bike. For the Honda CBR1000RR, Puig’s winglets are priced at 219.90 Euros, or about $245 USD. Meanwhile, the naked bikes like the Z900 get theirs for 198.50 Euros, or $223 USD.
Since its unveiling in late 2019, the Cybertruck has captivated people’s attention with its bold and futuristic design, breaking away from the traditional look of pickup trucks. In a recent reveal, it’s been disclosed that Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, always intended for the company’s pickup truck to have a distinct appearance. Musk pushed his designers to create a design that was not only futuristic but also edgier and somewhat unconventional. The decision to use stainless steel as the truck’s material was also a crucial aspect in achieving the unique look of the Cybertruck.
Musk’s rationale behind these design choices was relatively straightforward. He believed that current pickup truck designs had remained stagnant for many years, resulting in a monotonous and unexciting aesthetic. Understandably, most of Tesla’s design team did not initially share Musk’s enthusiasm for the radical design and material choices. However, he overruled all objections and declared that Tesla was determined to move forward with the design, regardless of any opposition.
Once the Cybertruck is launched, it will be intriguing to observe how it fares in the market. With over 1 million reservations already placed for the truck, it’s evident that there is a significant demand for it. Nevertheless, considering that the Cybertruck deviates from the typical characteristics of existing vehicles, it remains uncertain whether it will achieve success in the long run.
Pickup trucks are more popular than ever, offering buyers a wide range of choices. The new Ford Ranger Raptor and the Volkswagen Amarok, in their Raptor and PanAmericana versions, compete against the Toyota Hilux GR Sport in a series of drag races.
The Volkswagen Amarok PanAmericana is equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine that generates 240 horsepower and 442 pound-feet (600 Newton-meters) of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
In the late 1980s, the Japanese economy experienced a significant boom. This was largely due to the Plaza Accord signed by the U.S., Japan, Germany, France, and the U.K., which caused their currencies to gain strength against the dollar. The resulting asset price bubble led to prosperity in various sectors, including the automotive industry. Automakers like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan all launched luxury divisions that have since become well-known names.
Prior to the economic boom, Japanese car sales increased from a 6.5 percent market share in 1973 to over 20 percent in 1980, largely due to the U.S. oil crisis.
Japan had to sign the “Voluntary Export Restraint” agreement to slow down their exports to the U.S.
Mazda, known for its legendary Miata, RX sports cars, and current CX models, also launched its own luxury division during this time. The division, called Amati, aimed to establish Mazda as a renowned luxury automaker. However, Mazda faced challenges, and the economic downturn prevented the Amati brand from taking off. Despite its potential, Amati’s failure affected Mazda’s trajectory in the luxury car market.
Amati Was Launched In 1991
Mazda saw the success of other Japanese luxury divisions and wanted to be part of that market. The Amati brand was formed to take advantage of the economic surge and establish Mazda as a competitor to German automakers. Mazda announced Amati in 1991, around the same time they won the 24-hours of Le Mans race with the 787B racecar. The Amati 1000, under development at that time, was intended to be the flagship vehicle. Mazda even opened an office in Irvine, California for research and development. However, Mazda was venturing into the luxury car market without a solid backup plan or previous experience in this sector. Before Amati, Mazda was not considered in the same league as Toyota or Honda.
Mazda’s history involves surviving the Hiroshima bombing in 1945, avoiding a merger with Toyota in the 1960s, and navigating the 1973 oil crisis. During the 1980s, Mazda faced financial struggles and employees even had to clean up after work due to budget constraints. This work condition was also observed by employees in California. However, Mazda aimed to take on luxury brands like Lexus, Mercedes, and BMW, and had signed up 67 U.S. dealers to sell the upcoming Amati.
The Amati 1000 Was Going To Have A V-12 Engine Not A W-12
Donut Media
Mazda’s prototype W-12 engine
Early speculations about the Amati suggested it would have a W-12 engine. In 1989, Mazda showcased a compact four-liter W-12 engine at the Tokyo Motor Show. However, the Amati was not equipped with a W-12 engine. The W-12 design, which consisted of three banks of inline-four engines, had never been used before and was complicated but compact.
Proposed Amati Engine Specs
Engine
NA V-12
Displacement
5.0-liter
Power (Estimated)
280 horsepower
Torque (Estimated)
245 pound-feet
Mazda planned to use an existing V-6 engine known as the K-series in the Amati. They intended to utilize the internals of the K-series engine in a new cylinder block designed for the Amati. This approach saved Mazda development costs as the V-6 engine was already well-built and compact.
Economic Bust: Amati’s Implosion
Donut Media
Unconfirmed images of the Amati 1000
Developing a luxury car requires substantial investment. Lexus, for example, spent over $1 billion to develop the LS, and Mercedes exceeded its budget to maintain a high standard for the new S-class. Mazda, with a smaller budget, had already spent over $400 million on Amati. Unfortunately, Mazda’s timing couldn’t have been worse. The Japanese economic bubble burst in 1994, the same year Amati was set to go on sale, leading to the downfall of the luxury brand. Mazda, like many other sectors, faced the impact of the burst and the subsequent long-term recession known as “the lost decade.” Unlike established luxury automakers with greater capital, Mazda struggled due to its limited financial resources.
Amati’s President, Dick Colliver, joined Honda and took the learnings from Amati to Honda’s Acura division. This may have contributed to the success of Acura vehicles in the luxury car market. While brands like Lexus, Acura, and Infiniti continue to thrive, Mazda shut down the Amati division before it even launched its first car.
Factors contributing to Amati’s failure:
Bad timing: Launching a luxury brand just before an economic disaster.
Capital Deficit: Limited financial resources compared to other established luxury brands.
Poor Management: Mazda already struggled with managing its existing sub-brands.
Mazda Also Had Other Luxury Brands
Mazda
Rolling shot of a Mazda Xedos 9
Mazda Had Other Sub-Brands And Partnerships To Keep Them Afloat
Brand
Production Years
Purpose
Model
Rebadged
Autozam
1989-1998
Small cars and Kei cars, mainly rebadged Suzuki and Mazda models
Suzuki Cara
Autozam AZ-1
Eunos
1989-1996
Upscale version of existing cars sold in Japan and Australia
Mazda also ventured into other luxury brands. Moreover, they had a division dedicated to selling Ford vehicles. However, these sub-brands and partnerships did not fare well, and the cars produced under these brands did not uphold Mazda’s reputation. Mazda experimented with various car types, including luxury cars, Kei cars, luxury sports cars, and mid-engine cars. Ultimately, Mazda had to shut down most of its subsidiary brands by 1999.
Today, Mazda is known for producing quality cars, particularly the CX models and the enduring popularity of the Miata as a fun, lightweight sports car. Although Mazda could potentially launch a luxury brand now with its current success, the memory of Amati remains bitter, and Mazda denies its existence. All documentation related to the luxury brand has been destroyed or concealed, leaving no official photos or brochures. It’s as if the Amati brand never existed. The failure of Amati continues to leave us wondering what Mazda’s position would be in the market if it had succeeded.
Is it real? Is it a myth? Does it actually work? Can it really produce 5,000 horsepower? These are some of the questions that have intrigued us ever since we first heard about the world’s only 12-rotor engine. Finally, we have most of the answers, and there’s a lot to learn about this unique creation, including all the potential issues that can arise in a rotor engine.
But let’s start with some background information. The only 12-rotor engine in existence was built by Tyson Garvin of Apex Manufacturing and Design more than 15 years ago. Rob Dahm, a popular YouTuber who frequently discusses Wankel engines, received this incredible 15.7-liter engine a few months ago and is now releasing a second video showcasing its immense power.
In its current form, this engine is said to be capable of reaching 10,000 rpm and generating up to 800 pound-feet of torque at 2,000 rpm. Although the exact power output is not known at the moment, reports suggest that it could potentially produce up to 1,400 horsepower with its current configuration. Even more power could be achieved with the use of race fuel and turbocharging.
But why would someone build such an extraordinary engine? According to Garvin, his main goal was to use it for speed boat racing, but there were some design flaws that limited its applications. The good news, however, is that the 12-rotor engine has the same dimensions and bolt pattern as Chevy’s big block engines, making it compatible for various engine swaps.
“A rotary engine has no known true failure,” explained Garvin. “The tip seals and other parts can wear out, but there’s nothing that will break just for the fun of it like a Big Block Chevy. You can only get so much power out of a Big Block Chevy for extended periods of wide-open throttle. So we measured a Big Block Chevy and figured out how many rotors we could fit in that space. Eventually, we came up with this design, which has the exact shape of a Big Block Chevy.”
However, it turns out that Garvin’s statement may not be entirely accurate, as revealed by Rob Dahm in his latest 20-minute video. Dahm discusses the various issues and challenges associated with the 12-rotor engine, despite its remarkable capabilities. There is still much to learn about this engine and its flaws.
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