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Car review

Mercedes-Benz CLE

Is the Mercedes-Benz CLE more like a pumped-up C-Class or a slimmed-down E-Class? At first glance, its size might lead you to think it’s more like the former.

However, once you step inside, it becomes obvious that the CLE’s interior is derived from the C-Class. The distinctive quartic air vents, tapering fascia panel, and glossy black center stack and transmission tunnel all give away its C-Class roots. It may disappoint those hoping for the wider and more expansive fascia of the E-Class.

The lower fascia plastics also lack the tactile material quality of an E-Class, with a hint of hard and reflective cheapness. Mercedes tries to distract you from this with its usual flashy chrome and gloss carbon fiber. Overall, the ambience is rich enough but not as lavish and expensive-feeling as some might expect.

However, the CLE boasts impressive digital technology. It features the new E-Class’s third-generation MBUX infotainment system, which has a more powerful processor and a simplified top-level menu system with larger icons. It also offers fully integrated and connected compatibility with Android apps like TikTok, Webex, and Zoom (note that video conferencing apps only work when the car is parked). The revised home screen layout improves usability.

While owners of the E-Class Coupe may find the material quality in the CLE not up to par with their old car, they will appreciate the digital technology that Mercedes emphasizes. The car also provides decent usable space. The front seats offer generous elbow and headroom, even for taller adults. In the back, it’s more suitable for smaller adults or children, but it’s still an improvement from the cramped C-Class Coupe and slightly better than its main rivals: Audi A5 Coupe and BMW 4-Series Coupe.

News

Ego Expands into Electric Motorcycles with New Power+ Mini Bike

Ego, a part of the Chevron group known for its electric power tools and global presence, is venturing into the world of electric two-wheelers. Their latest offering, the Power+ Mini Bike, is designed for a younger audience, marking an exciting evolution for the brand.

Electric two-wheelers made for kids are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s not surprising. They provide a fantastic opportunity for parents to bond with their children while having fun. This trend reflects the growing interest in electric mobility, even at a young age, fostering both enjoyment and eco-consciousness in the next generation.

Ego Ventures Into Electric Motorcycles With New Power+ Mini Bike

The Ego Power+ Mini Bike is designed to provide kids with a friendly learning platform. It features a rear hub motor that can reach a top speed of 28 miles per hour, which might seem fast for youngsters. However, Ego has included three different ride modes – Eco, Normal, and Sport – allowing parents and kids to adjust the bike’s performance to their comfort level. The reverse mode makes parking easy, and parental controls offer peace of mind, ensuring that the power remains in check until the kids are fully ready to ride. It’s a smart combination of fun and safety.

One notable feature of the Mini Bike is its compatibility with standard Ego Power+ 56-volt ARC lithium batteries. With two of these batteries, it can achieve an impressive range of up to 20 miles on a single charge, making it a practical choice for young riders. The batteries are also included with the purchase, so you’re ready to go right out of the box. Additionally, the digital display provides real-time information on speed, acceleration, range, and more, adding a tech-savvy touch to the overall riding experience.

Ego Ventures Into Electric Motorcycles With New Power+ Mini Bike

The Mini Bike’s design takes inspiration from other mini bikes like the Honda Grom, sporting a modern and rugged look with contrasting gray and green colors that make it visually appealing. When it comes to safety, it’s well-equipped with front and rear suspension for a smooth ride, as well as front and rear hydraulic disc brakes for confident stopping power. The inclusion of off-road tires allows kids to venture off the beaten path and explore new terrain, adding an element of adventure to their riding experience.

Ego has yet to disclose pricing and availability information for the Mini Bike, but you can stay updated by visiting their official website, where it is marked as “Available Soon.” For the latest information and to learn more about the Mini Bike, visit their website through the link provided in the sources below.

Motorsport

Porsche Constructs Enormous, Walk-Through Sculpture of 911 for IAA Munich

Porsche has made a grand statement at this year’s IAA show in Munich by creating a colossal outdoor exhibition space in the likeness of a 911. Within this exhibition area, a collection of both modern and vintage vehicles were showcased. Spanning across 0.2471 acres (1,000 square meters), the entire presentation area was truly impressive.

Visitors to the exhibition had the opportunity to take a photograph alongside the gigantic 911 at the designated photo box. Alternatively, Porsche provided hostesses who were equipped to take Polaroid pictures of guests, ensuring a memorable physical memento of the experience.


Motorsport

Mercedes-AMG GT Concept E Performance Previewed With 800+ HP

Mercedes has a strong presence in Munich this week at the 2023 IAA Mobility by showcasing the Concept CLA Class and the new E-Class Estate. It’s also exhibiting a camouflaged prototype of the purely electric G-Class coming next year, along with the new E-Class All-Terrain and the updated EQA, EQB, and EQV models. As if that wasn’t enough, the three-pointed star also managed to sneak in a car it hasn’t formally announced yet.

Say hello to the Mercedes-AMG GT Concept E Performance. It was only about three weeks ago when the second-generation AMG GT Coupe was unveiled in “55” and “63” flavors and now the peeps from Affalterbach are already previewing a range-topping variant. It might look nearly the same as the already revealed models but aside from the heavily tinted lights, it also has a modified bumper to accommodate a charging port.


Lexus

Five Things to Know About the All-New 2024 Lexus GX

There’s a fresh presence in the world of luxury SUVs — the 2024 Lexus GX. An invigorating blend of refinement and robust capability, the three-row utility vehicle is a boundless ticket to travel. For urban explorers and nature-lovers alike, the GX is meticulously engineered to elevate driving experiences, no matter where the road leads.

Here are five essential aspects that make the 2024 Lexus GX stand out:

Adventuring With Overtrail

With the announcement of the all-new Lexus GX comes the first-ever Overtrail grade, a game changer for the adventurous-minded. It offers a suite of standard off-road features, including Multi-Terrain Select (MTS), which can help to control the throttle and traction, and Crawl Control, which uses sensors to help adjust acceleration and braking on challenging terrains. Overtrail grades also offer Multi-Terrain Monitor that displays front, side, and rear camera views with just the touch of a button to assist in offroad visibility.

Its thoughtful design also offers a skid plate and an integrated roof rack for those who want to accessorize their new GX.

Bold Exterior Design

Merging functional aesthetics and a distinctive look, the Lexus GX captures the spirit of both urban sophistication and outdoor exploration in one vehicle. Its striking and contemporary exterior exudes a feeling of harmonious balance between the rugged and the refined.

The all-new GX introduces a powerful front presence, led by a unified spindle grille while maintaining the brand’s recognizable design, accented by triple-beam LED headlamps. With its aerodynamic lines, chrome accents and premium paint finishes — which include the stunning two-tone options for the Overtrail grade — the GX never goes unnoticed thanks to Lexus’ meticulous attention to exterior details.

Power and Precision

Under the hood, the 2024 Lexus GX will offer two powertrain options. At launch in the United States, its standard 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivers 349 horsepower and 479 lb.-ft. of torque, offering exhilarating performance whether on busy city streets or isolated mountain passes. In addition, the increased power improves towing capacity from previous models to up to 8,000 pounds for Premium, Premium+ and Overtrail grades. The hybrid powertrain option will be available in the U.S. at a later date.

A Moving Sanctuary

Step inside the GX and be welcomed by a haven of tranquility, where traditional craftsmanship meets modern innovation. An intuitive infotainment system, centered on the standard 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display with Lexus Interface technology, provides connectivity on the go. The 2024 GX also comes standard with a Wireless Apple CarPlay® Integration and Android Auto® compatibility.

Offering seating for up to seven, the all-new GX provides comfort and convenience, featuring improved ergonomic seating and two unique configurations for the second row. With the GX’s six illuminated charging ports (four in Overtrail), a wireless charger and a 120V AC inverter, both driver and passengers can take advantage of a tech-forward experience. Each row also features its own storage spaces, and enhanced luggage capacity.

The cabin is further elevated with an available premium Mark Levinson® audio system, ambient lighting, and plush leather seats — all contributing to what amounts to no less than a moving sanctuary, whether drivers are navigating rush hour or venturing to a secluded beach.

Safety Comes Standard

Safety is an integral part of the 2024 Lexus GX experience. With that in mind, each GX grade comes standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a suite of advanced active safety technologies that work as one to help drivers navigate roads with confidence.

Key features include the Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA), and All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC).

Lexus has built its reputation on delivering anticipatory hospitality, comfort, quality, and innovative technology. Exquisitely weaving sophistication, adventure, power, and safety into one vehicle, the all-new 2024 Lexus GX is no exception. Regardless of lifestyle, drivers and passengers can enjoy the perfect blend of luxury and capability with the all-new Lexus GX.

Featured

Toyota Unveils the 2024 Land Cruiser, Bringing Back an Icon

The Toyota Land Cruiser may not have gained as much popularity in the United States as it did internationally, but it has always maintained a reputation for its exceptional off-road capabilities, reliability, and impressive engineering. Recently, Toyota discontinued the Land Cruiser in the North American market, leaving a void in the limited selection of SUVs that offer the same level of off-road performance. Fortunately, the Land Cruiser is making a comeback with a new approach to its legendary off-roading capabilities.

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser has returned after a three-year hiatus, this time as an SUV based on Toyota’s TNGA-F global truck platform. As a result, the new Land Cruiser is slightly smaller than its predecessor, measuring 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter. Additionally, Toyota has made the Land Cruiser more affordable, with prices starting in the mid $50,000 range. This new model takes inspiration from the original Land Cruiser, which began as a rugged and Spartan vehicle before transforming into a large luxury SUV.

The new Land Cruiser will be equipped with a single powertrain option: the i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid engine, delivering an impressive 326 horsepower and 465 lb/ft of torque. Although fuel economy numbers have yet to be released, they are expected to be better than the previous V8-powered Land Cruisers. The new model also pays homage to its heritage, featuring round LED headlights and a “TOYOTA” grille inspired by the 1958 trim level, or square headlights reminiscent of the FJ62. Off-road capabilities are ensured with amenities like a trailer hitch with a 6,000-lb towing capacity, a two-speed transfer case, and a locking rear differential.

While the Land Cruiser remains true to its rugged nature, it also offers modern technology. The vehicle comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and optional features such as a 14-speaker JBL audio system, 4G connectivity, and wireless device charging. Toyota is celebrating the Land Cruiser’s return by offering a limited First Edition trim level, limited to 5,000 units in North America. This trim includes premium features like leather-trimmed seats and 18-inch wheels. Production of the Land Cruiser will take place at Toyota’s Tahara and Hino plants in Japan, with the first models expected to arrive in the United States in spring 2024. The return of this true off-road legend is definitely something to look forward to.

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2024 Toyota Land Cruiser

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Featured

Tesla to Exhibit at 2023 Shenzhen Auto Show, Possible Debut of Updated Model 3

Tesla will once again participate in a Chinese auto show following the eventful start of the 2021 Shanghai Auto Show. The prominent American electric vehicle manufacturer will attend the 2023 Shenzhen Auto Show on June 16, with rumors suggesting that the highly anticipated refreshed Model 3 might take center stage.

In recent times, auto shows have lost some of their allure among carmakers, and the global pandemic has delivered a significant blow to what was once a prime occasion for introducing new… (continue reading…)

BMW

Road to Le Mans: BMW M works drivers Valentino Rossi and Max Hesse have fun victories on the Circuit de la Sarthe.

Le Mans. Two victories for the BMW M Team WRT and the BMW M4 GT3 within the supporting programme, a formidable total presence of BMW M and the primary GT3 triumph for Valentino Rossi (ITA). Although the premiere of the BMW M Hybrid V8 on the 24 Hours of Le Mans (FRA) isn’t on the agenda till 2024, BMW M was already an emphatic a part of the occasion at a number of ranges this 12 months on the 100-year anniversary of the world’s most well-known endurance race.

 

On the racetrack, BMW M Team WRT competed with BMW M works drivers Valentino Rossi and Max Hesse (GER) within the Road to Le Mans assist races, that are a part of the Michelin Le Mans Cup. On Thursday, the victory went to Hesse and his team-mate Tim Whale (GBR). Rossi shared the cockpit of the #46 BMW M4 GT3 within the two 55-minute races with Jérôme Policand (FRA). The duo had motive to have fun on Friday when Rossi perfected his first GT3 triumph with an overtaking manoeuvre on the penultimate lap. Hesse and Whale accomplished the WRT one-two as runners-up.

For BMW M Team WRT, it was the primary deployment for BMW M Motorsport at Le Mans, earlier than the BMW M Hybrid V8 premieres within the prime class in 2024. This season, the group is getting into two LMP2 vehicles within the 24-hour race for the final time. A 3rd BMW M4 GT3 was fielded within the Road to Le Mans races by the GMB Motorsport group. The drivers Roland and Kristian Poulsen (each DEN) completed in seventh and fifteenth locations.

Marking the event of the 100-year anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, one historic BMW race automotive will go across the observe on demo laps on the weekend – the BMW V12 LMR, with which BMW M Motorsport claimed total victory in 1999. Also on view are the legendary BMW Art Cars by Alexander Calder and Jeff Koons, which triggered a sensation at Le Mans in 1975 and 2010. A preview of subsequent 12 months is offered by the BMW M Hybrid V8 present automotive, which shares the paddock area with the BMW M manufacturing mannequin BMW XM (gasoline consumption in l/100 km mixed: 1.7 – 1.6 WLTP; energy consumption in kWh/100 km mixed: 34.5 – 33.0 WLTP; CO2 emissions in g/km mixed: 39 – 35 WLTP).

 

Reactions to the Road to Le Mans races:

 

Andreas Roos (Head of BMW M Motorsport): “We had tremendous profitable days right here with our BMW M4 GT3 along with WRT within the Road to Le Mans races. It was additionally the primary BMW race look for a number of years at Le Mans. With the victory within the first race and the one-two within the second race, we’re in fact very glad. To see Valentino Rossi along with Jérôme Policand in addition to Max Hesse and Tim Whale on prime of the rostrum is just unbelievable. We hope to have the ability to construct on these successes subsequent 12 months. This was a primary step. Many thanks, in fact, for the dedication to the entire group, the drivers and the crew of BMW M Motorsport. They gave our BMW M4 GT3 a fantastic Le Mans debut.”

 

Valentino Rossi (#46 BMW M4 GT3, BMW M Team WRT): “We are very completely satisfied as a result of we received. It was the primary victory along with BMW, and it was additionally a fantastic expertise to come back right here to organize for subsequent 12 months’s 24-hour race. We had a robust tempo since yesterday morning and in qualifying however we have been a bit unfortunate within the first race so we wished to go for the rostrum within the second race. Jérôme had an excellent first stint, and on the finish of the day we have been capable of win. I had an excellent tempo and was capable of do some good overtakes. We are very, very completely satisfied.”

 

Max Hesse (#31 BMW M4 GT3, BMW M Team WRT): “We are in fact very completely satisfied. On Thursday we already had a fantastic race. WRT did an ideal job on the pit cease. We selected the fitting technique. It was a fantastic honour to have the ability to drive right here. Being right here for the primary time was very, very cool for me and it was good to be taught, as a result of there was not a lot stress and you might drive many laps. We are actually pleased with first and second place. Congratulations in fact additionally to our team-mates on the victory on Friday.”