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10 New Adventure Bikes To Look Forward To In 2024

Expectations have by no means been larger as we glance to the way forward for the ever-evolving world of bike journey. As 2024 rolls round, the bike business is poised to grace us with a wave of extremely spectacular bikes, every promising to redefine the boundaries of power, consolation, and innovation. These upcoming adventure motorcycles are greater than only a technique of transportation; they articulate a spirit of exploration, designed to beat rugged terrain, traverse huge landscapes, and encourage journey in you.

While the bike business embraces technological development, revolutionary design philosophy, and guarantees of pushing the boundaries of efficiency, there are new journey bikes that promise an unparalleled driving expertise. They are gateways to unmarked territories, beckoning you to journey the place the street ends, and the journey actually begins.

In this in depth listing, we check out 10 such new ADVs that it is advisable to think about in 2024. Whether you might be an skilled adventurer or a path fanatic, we’ve made certain to cowl your entire spectrum of journey bikes from entry-level choices to value-for-money middleweights to full-blown premium ADVs.

Related

10 Most Extreme High-Performance Adventure Bikes

Adventure motorcycling stage: Max

Looking at info from the official producer web sites alongside a number of knowledgeable websites like Motorcyclenews.com, we’ve compiled this listing of journey bikes. The fashions had been organized from the bottom energy output to the very best.

10 2024 Royal Enfield Himalayan 452

Max Power: 40 Horsepower

Royal Enfield himalayan 450
Royal Enfield

Even although the brand-new Himalayan 450 hasn’t made its method to America but, all indicators level that the improved model of the popular mannequin ups the ante on the journey with extra facilities and energy. It expands on the Himalayan 411’s well-proven basis, giving riders who crave extra journey and discovery much more choices.

The vital factor to recollect is that the newer mannequin has little or no {hardware} in widespread with the older mannequin. With liquid cooling, superior, next-generation building, and an engine that produces virtually twice as a lot energy, the 450 is all set to take issues a step additional. In addition, Royal Enfield put in a Showa suspension system, a further gearbox, and an excellent larger gas tank.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled DOHC single-cylinder

Capacity

452 cc

Max Power

40 HP

Max Torque

29.5 LB-FT

Drive

Chain

9 2024 CFMoto 450MT

Max Power: 44 Horsepower

2024 CFMoto 450MT Side
CFMoto

Although the 450MT could also be CFMoto’s first journey providing underneath 500cc, it seems prepared to beat any form of terrain. Based on the 449cc, parallel twin powerhouse beforehand seen within the 450SS and 450NK, that is the model’s third mannequin on this platform. Mechanical tweaks offer you 32.4 pound-feet of torque and 44 horsepower, which interact at 6,250 RPM and eight,500 respectively.

The 450MT is constructed by CFMoto round a metal twin cradle chassis. It combines 41 mm KYB upside-down forks and an adjustable KYB mono-shock with 7.87 inches of journey. To facilitate acceptable off-roading, you additionally obtain 21/17-inch spoke wheels along with the long-travel suspension.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled twin-cylinder

Capacity

449 cc

Max Power

44 HP

Max Torque

32.4 LB-FT

Drive

Chain

8 2024 Suzuki V-Strom 800

Max Power: 83 Horsepower

2024 Suzuki V-Strom 800 Action 3
Suzuki

Suzuki’s V-Strom vary is even bigger than Triumph’s and BMWs! There are as many as twelve variations to select from, every with distinctive options, specs, and engines. From the 1050DE Adventure, the priciest mannequin, to the extra reasonably priced and older mannequin, the 650. For this listing, the 800 slots in completely like an excellent new mannequin that guarantees to take you all over the place.

The V-Strom 800 occupies the middle ground; and whereas the favored V-twin engine is now not included, the brand new parallel-twin engine is as reliable and pleasant. It comes with a revamped look that advances the Suzuki design language whereas conserving some options from the earlier V-twin, such because the beak. All in all, a worthy new ADV for 2024.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

4-stroke, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled, DOHC

Capacity

776 cc

Max Power

83 HP

Max Torque

57.5 LB-FT

Drive

Chain

Related

Best ADVs For Around The World Adventures

Explore the world together with your greatest buddy and a dependable ADV bike

7 2024 Honda XL750 Transalp

Max Power: 91 Horsepower

2024 Honda XL750 Transalp US 1
Honda

After just a few weeks of existence in Europe, the Honda Transalp is now making its way to the US as properly. It is a reasonably succesful journey bike and has all of the enjoyable options we have come to anticipate from Honda being based mostly on the unique mannequin, which debuted within the mid-Eighties. It has spoked wheels, a 5-inch TFT show, 5 trip modes, a reliable 755cc parallel-twin engine, and a wide range of Honda accent packages.

Now, you get the power to customise your Transalp to fulfill your driving fashion. Take, for example, the Touring Collection – an elective improve that comes with heart stands, panniers, and a giant display when you plan on driving totally on the pavement. The Adventure Collection, however, contains hand guards, a skid plate, and enduro foot pegs if off-roading is your goal.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled 8v parallel twin

Capacity

755 cc

Max Power

91 HP

Max Torque

55 LB-FT

Drive

Chain

6 2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro

Max Power: 93.9 Horsepower

2024 Triumph Tiger 900 GT Pro
Triumph

You are wanting on the 2022 MCN Machine of the Year, albeit in its Rally Pro disguise. The all-new mannequin for 2024 has modified a terrific deal. Crucial upgrades from Triumph give the inline-triple engine extra oomph on the backside finish and higher energy distribution, making it a lot smoother than earlier than.

Most importantly, the GT Pro variant offers a roomy driving posture and a snug trip because of its suspension setup. In phrases of options, you get cruise management, cornering ABS, TCS, heated seats and grips, hand guards, a quick-shifter and auto blipper, and an electrically adjustable rear shock. All the elements for journey!

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled Inline-triple

Capacity

888 cc

Max Power

93.9 HP

Max Torque

66 LB-FT

Drive

Chain

5 2024 Moto Guzzi Stelvio

Max Power: 115 Horsepower

Moto Guzzi Stelvio Hero
Moto Guzzi

Hard-core Guzzi followers are elated that the model has lastly introduced again its flagship ADV, the Stelvio. In distinction to the touring-focused V100 Mondello, the Stelvio appears tough and prepared to traverse the globe as quickly because it leaves the showroom. Regarding driving, it might be the very best mannequin from Moto Guzzi to go away the manufacturing unit; its longitudinally positioned V-twin engine is highly effective and adaptable, offering tameness when required and pleasure when desired.

It comes with an aluminum bash plate, baggage rack, hand guards, an up to date tank that permits for saddle assist, and laced spoke wheels. The Mandello doesn’t have any of those options and what’s even higher is that Stelvio’s feature-rich design is akin to that of its full-size rivals.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled 90-degree V-twin

Capacity

1,042 cc

Max Power

115 HP

Max Torque

77.44 LB-FT

Drive

Shaft

Related

Top 10 BMW GS Models That Defined Adventure Riding

Widely credited for birthing the journey bike section, BMW proceed to guide the pack with their GS fashions

4 2024 MV Agusta LXP Orioli

Max Power: 124 Horsepower

2024 MV Agusta LXP Orioli Hero
MV Agusta

Exclusiveness is usually related to limited-edition superbikes, however MV Agusta believes in any other case. The Edi Orioli-inspired LXP Orioli, which the Italian model has debuted, is proscribed to simply 500 items. With a number of the biggest options within the class, this ADV exudes confidence in every means.

Looking at what you get, there’s a set of off-road parts that features crash bars, LED aux lights, a powerful Sachs suspension, a skid plate, and tubeless spoke Takasago rims. You additionally get Brembo Stylema brake calipers and upgraded ABS with a switchable off-road mode that gives race-spec braking.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled Inline-triple cylinder

Capacity

931 cc

Max Power

124 HP

Max Torque

75.23 LB-FT

Drive

Chain

3 2024 BMW R 1300 GS

Max Power: 145 Horsepower

two riders on 2023 BMW R 1300 GS looking at two llamas
BMW

There has been a BMW R GS offering for over 43 years now. The R 80 GS, thought to be the primary large dual-sport motorcycle in historical past, is credited with beginning all of it. The Bavarian bike producer has been step by step enhancing its ADV ever since. And now, the extremely celebrated R 1250 GS has now been changed by the all-new R 1300 GS, which has a design that might not be to everybody’s style however is nonetheless touted to be the lightest and punchiest GS but.

BMW has targeting making the motorcycle sleeker and sharper in its new incarnation, each by way of look and trip high quality. Not to say the abundance of elective choices that include the motorcycle. It simply must be in your listing of concerns for 2024.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled flat-twin boxer with BMW ShiftCam

Capacity

1,300 cc

Max Power

145 HP

Max Torque

110 LB-FT

Drive

Shaft

2 2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R

Max Power: 160 Horsepower

2024 KTM 1290 Super Adventure R Action
KTM

With the 1290 Super Adventure R, KTM’s insane acceleration might be had in one thing light-weight and compact. When you begin to climb into the mid-range, that’s the place the unimaginable LC8 engine begins to shine and does not cease till you launch the throttle. This monster of a motorbike behaves so much like a motorbike half its dimension; blame the KTM magic, and you will be shocked at how shortly it shifts sides.

The Super Adventure exudes luxurious in each half and element and is constructed to go throughout borders and the harshest of terrains. In phrases of design, this journey bike is by far essentially the most intimidating and dominant-looking. The psychological expertise of driving the KTM 1290 Super Adventure R is unmatched by most different bikes.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled LC8 V-twin

Capacity

1,301 cc

Max Power

160 HP

Max Torque

101.8 LB-FT

Drive

Chain

Related

10 Reasons Why ADVs Are The SUVs Of The Motorcycle World

These final do-it-all bikes can go locations others can solely dream of going

1 2024 Ducati Multistrada V4 S Grand Tour

Max Power: 170 Horsepower

Ducati Multistrada V4 Grand Tour
Ducati

The Ducati Multistrada V4 S Grant Tour is your best bet when you’re on the lookout for an journey bike that may grasp with superbikes for prolonged durations of time. It comes with essentially the most important Ducati ADV options, plus this large journey bike has the identical horsepower because the Pikes Peak mannequin while including further facilities which are extra appropriate for touring.

Blind spot detection, heated grips and seats, exhausting baggage, and plenty of extra options make it a nice go-anywhere bike. This bike has all of it — energy supply, dealing with, consolation, and high velocity — so you will not want for something extra. However, if that also is not sufficient, you’ll be able to select the Multistrada V4 RS, which is supplied with the menacing Desmosedici Stradale V4 engine from the Panigale V4.

Engine Specifications

Engine Type

Liquid-cooled Ducati V4 Granturismo

Capacity

1,158 cc

Max Power

170 HP

Max Torque

92 LB-FT

Drive

Chain

Here’s How Long You Will Have To Wait To Bring Home Certain MPVs This November


Big MPVs are experiencing higher waiting times compared to smaller MPVs from Maruti and Renault

Toyota Innova Hycross, Maruti Ertiga, Kia Carens

Planning to buy an MPV this November? If so, be prepared for lengthy waiting times, particularly if you’re eyeing the Toyota Innova Hycross. However, there are alternative options priced under Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom) that come with shorter waiting periods compared to the bigger MPVs. Therefore, before you book one, take a moment to review the waiting periods for MPVs in the top 20 cities across India.

Waiting Period Table

City

Renault Triber

Maruti Ertiga

Maruti XL6

Kia Carens

Toyota Innova Crysta

Toyota Innova Hycross

Maruti Invicto

New Delhi

3-4 weeks

2 months

1-2 months

2 months

3-4 months

8 months

8-10 months

Bengaluru

1 month

1-2 months

1 week

2 months

3 months

8 months

3 months

Mumbai

1 week

2 months

1-1.5 months

2 months

3 months

7-9 months

4-5 months

Hyderabad

1 month

2 months

2-3 months

1-2 months

3-4 months

10 months

3 months

Pune

No waiting

2 months

2-3 weeks

3 months

3-5 months

6-8 months

6 months

Chennai

1 week

2 months

2-3 weeks

2 months

3 months

6-9 months

5 months

Jaipur

2 weeks

2.5 months

1-2 weeks

1-2 months

3 months

7.5-10.5 months

5 months

Ahmedabad

2-3 weeks

1-2 months

2-2.5 months

1-2 months

4 months

6-8 months

3-4 months

Gurugram

1-2 weeks

2 months

No waiting

1 month

5 months

10 months

5 months

Lucknow

2 weeks

2 months

3 weeks

3 months

4 months

8 months

5 months

Kolkata

1 month

1.5-2 months

1 month

2-2.5 months

4 months

5-7 months

7-8 months

Thane

Up to 2 weeks

2 months

1-1.5 months

2 months

3 months

8 months

6-7 months

Surat

1 week

2 months

No waiting

2 months

3 months

8 months

5-6 months

Ghaziabad

2-3 weeks

1-1.5 months

1-2 weeks

4 months

3 months

6-9 months

5 months

Chandigarh

1 month

2 months

1 month

2 months

5 months

7 months

6 months

Coimbatore

1 month

2.5 months

1 month

2 months

5 months

10-12 months

4-5 months

Patna

No waiting

2 months

1-1.5 months

2 months

3-4 months

8 months

5 months

Faridabad

1 month

2 months

1-2 months

2 months

4 months

8 months

4-5 months

Indore

2-4 weeks

2 months

1 month

1-2 months

3 months

8 months

6 months

Noida

No waiting

2.5 months

1 month

1-2 months

3-4 months

6-8 months

4-5 months

Key Takeaways

Renault Triber

  • Among all the models mentioned in the list, the Renault Triber has the shortest waiting period, going up to one month. In Pune, Patna and Noida, the Triber is readily available for delivery. For residents in cities such as Mumbai, Chennai, Jaipur, Surat, and Gurugram, you can expect your MPV to be delivered within 2 weeks.

  • The Maruti Ertiga has an average waiting time of 2 months, which is fairly consistent across all the of the cities in the table. Another MPV from the Maruti stable, the XL6, also has a maximum waiting time of up to 2 months. However, in cities like Bengaluru, Jaipur, and Ghaziabad, it has a waiting time of up to 2 weeks. In Gurugram and Surat, the XL6 has no waiting period.

Kia Carens

  • The Kia Carens is currently facing a maximum waiting time of up to 4 months, with an average waiting period of 2 months in cities like New Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Chennai, Surat, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Indore, and Noida.

  • Getting your hands on the Toyota Innova Crysta can take up to 5 months if you live in Pune, Gurugram, Chandigarh, and Coimbatore. In other cities, the MPV is enjoying an average waiting time of 3 months.

  • The Toyota Innova Hycross is the most sought-after model in the list, with a waiting period of over 8 months in many cities. However if you reside in Coimbatore, you will have to wait for a year to get your MPV delivered. 

Also Check Out: Toyota To Set Up A Third Manufacturing Plant In India By 2026

Maruti Invicto

  • The Hycross’ rebadged version, the Maruti Invicto, is also having a maximum waiting period of up to 10 months in New Delhi. If you live in Kolkata and Thane, it will take more than 6 months to get your MPV delivered.

Read More on : Triber AMT

Audi Plans to Expand On-Demand Features to Meet Customer Demand

To increase profitability, automakers are constantly exploring new strategies. On-demand features and subscriptions have emerged as a popular trend in the industry, although the response has been mixed. Audi, a renowned technology-focused manufacturer, has announced its intention to expand the availability of on-demand features in its vehicles starting next year. However, the company emphasizes that this move is not driven by a desire for additional revenue, but rather as a response to existing customer demand.

Currently, Audi’s on-demand features are limited to their E-Tron and E-Tron Sportback models. However, the company plans to extend this offering to a wider range of models in the near future. This expansion will enable vehicle owners to enhance their driving experience by adding new functions and features after the initial purchase on a flexible basis. Some of the current on-demand features offered by Audi include the LED Matrix package, which seamlessly switches between dipped and main beam headlights, a light function package that incorporates animated lighting effects during car locking and unlocking, and a semi-autonomous parking function that can locate and park the vehicle automatically.

Discover the Surprising Prices of Snap-On Socket Sets

When it comes to Snap-On socket sets, the price tag is noticeably higher compared to its competitors. But what makes them so expensive? There are a few key factors to consider.

One major aspect is the brand’s lifetime guarantee. With this guarantee, buyers can potentially receive replacements in the future, even if they personally never need one. This upfront cost may be worth it for those who anticipate future replacements.

The target market for Snap-On tools is primarily professionals. These individuals value higher quality tools that can withstand heavy use. While budget brands are suitable for the average person, experienced mechanics, for instance, prefer reliable tools. Investing close to $2,000 in a socket set that guarantees lifelong durability is a reasonable choice. Mechanics rely heavily on their tools, and having good quality ones is crucial. Buying cheap tools that constantly need replacement can end up costing more in the long run.

Another factor that adds to the higher price tag is Snap-On’s proprietary formula for crafting their tools. Additionally, the company claims that their sockets undergo heat treatment to prolong their lifespan and enhance their durability. Whether these features justify paying over $1,000 for a set is subjective and dependent on individual preferences.

2024 Kia Forte Price Starts At $20,915, $330 More Than Last Year

The 2024 Kia Forte has received mild upgrades for the GT-Line trim, but this comes with a higher price across all trim levels. Take a look at the table below to compare the cost of each trim to last year:

Trim Level 2024 Model Price (Including $1,125 Destination Fee) 2023 Model Price (Including $1,095 Destination Fee) Difference
LX $20,915 $20,585 $330
LXS $21,415 $21,085 $330
GT-Line $23,415 $22,785 $630
GT (6-Speed Manual) $26,315 $25,985 $330
GT (7-Speed Dual-Clutch Gearbox) $25,615 $25,285 $330

2023 AAA New Car Ownership Cost Study Shows Significant Jump Over 2022

The American Automobile Association’s (AAA) annual Your Driving Costs (YDC) study reveals a notable increase in the average cost of owning a new vehicle. The 2023 report indicates that the annual expense has risen substantially, with an average yearly cost of $12,182, or $1,015 per month. This marks a significant jump from the previous year’s average of $10,728, or $894 per month.

To calculate the ownership and operating costs of new vehicles in the United States, AAA uses a proprietary methodology that incorporates data from various sources and standardized criteria. The study estimates the expenses over a five-year ownership period and 75,000 miles of driving. However, actual costs may vary based on factors such as driving habits, location, and operating conditions.

Several factors have contributed to the increase in costs of owning a new vehicle. One primary factor is the rise in the average manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of new vehicles, which reached $34,876 in the 2023 YDC study. This represents a 4.7 percent increase from the previous year, amounting to a $1,575 uptick.

It’s important to note that the MSRP may not reflect the actual purchase price, as it can fluctuate based on demand and market dynamics. However, the higher MSRP directly impacts finance costs, with the average annual finance charge for this year’s vehicles standing at $1,253. This signifies a significant 90 percent increase from the previous year.

Depreciation is another contributing factor, reflecting the decline in a car’s value over time. AAA anticipates that new vehicles will depreciate by an average of $4,538 each year over a five-year ownership period. This marks a 24 percent increase compared to the prior year. Additionally, the focus on producing larger, more luxurious, and feature-rich vehicles by automakers drives up the prices of new models, thereby increasing annual new car ownership costs.

In terms of fuel expenses, the average cost per mile for fuel has experienced a modest decrease of around 2 cents per mile compared to the previous year. However, the cost of charging electric vehicles (EVs) has seen an opposite trend, rising by nearly 2 cents per kilowatt-hour from 13.9 cents per kWh to 15.8 cents per kWh. This increase is attributed to higher-than-expected inflation, as noted by the US Energy Information Administration (EIA).

10 Secrets Porsche Owners Will Never Tell You

Summary

  • Porsche maintenance costs can be significantly higher than other vehicles due to the high-quality components used in their cars, making routine maintenance more expensive.
  • Owning a Porsche requires constant attention and meticulous care to maintain its pristine appearance and luxurious interior.
  • Learning and mastering the advanced features and technologies in a Porsche may have a steep learning curve, and some owners may struggle to fully utilize and understand them.

Porsche is known for creating well-engineered sports cars beloved by auto enthusiasts around the world. While owning a Porsche can be a wonderful experience, there are certain secrets that Porsche owners might not readily share with you. Here are 10 secrets that Porsche owners will never tell you.

RELATED: Here’s How Porsche Plans To Keep Internal Combustion Alive

10 Maintenance Intervals And Costs

porsche 959 workshop
Porsche

Maintaining a Porsche can be more expensive compared to other vehicles. Porsche vehicles are equipped with high-quality components, which contribute to higher maintenance costs. Routine maintenance for a Porsche, like the 2013 Porsche 911 Cabriolet, can cost around $1,163 over 12 months. Compared to competitors like the Audi Q5, Porsche maintenance costs are estimated to be 83% higher than the industry average.

Additionally, regularly driving a Porsche on the track may require more frequent maintenance, adding to the overall cost and inconvenience for the owner.

9 Constant Attention

911 T interior
Porsche 

Owning a Porsche requires constant attention and care. Porsche owners invest significant time and effort in maintaining their cars’ pristine appearance and luxurious interior. Maintaining the exterior paint, cleaning and caring for the interior, and regular performance monitoring are just some of the tasks they undertake to keep their Porsche in top condition.

8 Learning Curve Of Advanced Features And Technology

porsche 911 gt3 rs driving mode button
Porsche 

Porsche vehicles come equipped with advanced features and technology that may require a learning curve for some owners. Features like launch controls, driving modes, and connectivity options can take some time to fully understand and utilize. Owners may also need to learn advanced driving techniques to fully harness the car’s potential.

7 Personal Track Times And Incidents

Porsche 911 on track
Porsche

Many Porsche owners enjoy driving their cars on the track. However, not all owners have the necessary skills to achieve the best lap times or avoid incidents. Personal track times and incidents may be a secret that owners do not readily share.

6 Sacrifices Due To Priority For Passion

Porsche cayenne
Porsche

Owning a Porsche may require sacrificing some practicality and comfort. Porsche sports cars are designed for performance, while SUVs may prioritize performance over a smooth ride. Owners often prioritize their passion for automobiles over practicality, making sacrifices to enjoy the Porsche driving experience.

5 Customization Expenses And Hidden Modifications

Front shot of a silver 2023 Porsche 718 GT4 by DeMan Motorsport
DeMan Motorsport
 

Porsche owners often customize their cars with modifications ranging from custom paint jobs to performance upgrades. These customizations can be expensive, and owners may not readily share the costs with others. Additionally, some owners may have hidden modifications that are not immediately noticeable.

RELATED: 10 Things That Separate The Porsche 718 From The 911

4 Competition Among Owners

718 Cayman GT4 RS
Porsche

While the Porsche community is generally supportive, some owners may engage in friendly rivalries, comparing performance specifications and modifications. Owners may also participate in driving challenges and competitions, showcasing their cars’ capabilities. However, these competitions are often kept within the community and not openly discussed.

3 Limited Practicality In Some Models

718 Cayman GT4 RS trunk
Porsche

Porsche sports cars, like the 911, Boxster, and Cayman, prioritize performance over practicality. These two-door sports cars often have limited trunk space due to engine configurations. Owners may not openly discuss the limitations in practicality that come with owning these sports cars.

2 The Waitlist

911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition
Porsche

Some Porsche models, particularly limited editions and exclusive models, may have long waiting lists. Getting your hands on one of these coveted cars may require waiting for an extended period of time. Owners may find the wait frustrating, but it is a part of the Porsche ownership experience.

RELATED: 10 Classic Porsche Cars You Can Buy For Less than $20,000

1 DIY Repairs And Maintenance

Porsche winter event 2020 DIY
Porsche

Many Porsche owners take pride in performing DIY repairs and maintenance on their cars. They prefer to take care of their Porsche themselves and may even engage in restoring or modifying classic models. However, this level of dedication to DIY repairs and maintenance may not be understood by non-enthusiasts.

How High Can Fighter Jets Actually Fly?

Military-grade fighter jets can fly higher than commercial flights, reaching altitudes of over 50,000 feet above sea level, according to Simple Flying. However, specific altitude information for individual jets is not readily available due to military security concerns.

In 1976, a world record was set that gives us an idea of the potential upper limit of fighter jets’ altitude. Before the era of reconnaissance satellites and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), the U.S. military relied on high-altitude jets to gather intelligence. One of the most notable high-flying jets was the Lockheed SR-71, also known as the Blackbird, which reached altitudes exceeding 80,000 feet.

The SR-71 played a crucial role in Cold War intelligence gathering for the U.S. military due to its exceptional speed and high-altitude capabilities, as noted by the Smithsonian. The aircraft’s unique engine inlets, responsible for bringing air into the engine, contributed to its remarkable speed and agility.

The all-new Passat Variant on final test drives

The all-new Passat Variant will celebrate its world premiere at the end of August and Volkswagen is now publishing the first advance details of the next Passat generation. The new model is equipped with a host of innovations such as an intuitive display and operating concept, a high-quality interior, a new adaptive chassis control system, premium-class seats and plug-in hybrid drives with electric ranges of up to 100 kilometres. The all-new Passat Variant will be launched in the first quarter of 2024. It is the ninth generation of one of the world’s most successful mid-sized cars, with over 50 years of history and more than 30 million units sold.