Tag Archives: remains

2024 KTM 500EXC: DUAL-SPORT VIDEO

The KTM 500EXC is new for 2024, but it surely stays the bike of selection for critical dual-sport riders within the U.S. The body is new and borrows a lot from the present 450SX-F motocross bike. The key distinction is the PDS rear suspension which does away with the linkage used on the motocross bike.  That hasn’t modified, however the fork is new this yr. It is the spring model of the WP Xact, which is one thing that dual-sport followers have been wanting for years. Check out Mark Tilley as he will get to trip the bike for the primary time, inventory tires and all, on this episode of Dirt Bike Magazine’s dual-sport video assortment.

Editor’s letter: EV makers construct case for smaller batteries

Early electrical vehicles had been outlined by vary. While vary stays an vital a part of an EV’s spec panel, a broader understanding of battery sizes and effectivity, in addition to the reliability of the charging community and the velocity at which an EV may be recharged have change into simply as distinguished and vital as that final vary determine.  

Unless a automobile’s vary is notably smaller in comparison with the market norm or notably larger, then it may be 234 miles, 256 miles or 291 miles and that may usually be outlined as being someplace between sufficient and greater than sufficient.

2025 Toyota Camry: How America’s Best-Selling Sedan Aims To Maintain Its Lead

Summary

  • Despite the decline in midsize sedan sales, the Toyota Camry remains one of the best-selling cars in America, outselling popular SUVs.
  • The 2025 Toyota Camry features a sharper and more elegant look, with improvements to the interior design and materials.
  • The Camry is now only available as a hybrid, with the V-6 engine discontinued, but it offers an optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system for improved traction.

Midsize sedan sales aren’t as strong as they used to be in the midst of the SUV boom, but there have been a few survivors in this segment, most of which are from Asian automakers. That’s because, while the overall demand for sedans did decline, it didn’t disappear completely, as there’s still a segment in the market that wants a low and sleek way to travel around. As American automakers have abandoned the segment, Asian automakers have remained committed to whatever demand that’s left.

Case in point, the new 2025 Toyota Camry. While sales have remained mostly flat throughout the years, the mere fact that it’s the seventh best-selling car in America, and it even outsells a number of popular SUVs and crossovers like the Nissan Rogue says a lot about the Camry’s popularity among sedan buyers. Along with the perennially good Honda Accord, the Camry remains at the pinnacle of sedan sales, which is why Toyota isn’t wasting any time in redesigning the new Camry.

Related: Comparison: 2024 Toyota Camry Vs. 2024 Lexus ES

In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including Toyota and Car and Driver.

Sharper Looks, Plusher Interior

Now in its ninth generation, the new 2025 Toyota Camry debuts a sharper yet more elegant look, though one that looks quite familiar. That’s because while this may be a new generation model, a lot of the previous model’s foundations have been inherited by this new Camry. This includes the TNGA-K platform, which is what a host of other Toyota also use.

Two Distinct Flavors To Choose From

Actually, if you take a look at the design, one look at the proportions gives you a sense of déjà vu, though all the exterior panels are new to the Camry. Up front, the new 2025 Camry adopts the so-called “Hammerhead” front fascia that first debuted in the new Prius, which is characterized by C-shaped LED daytime running lights. Just like before, the Camry comes in two distinct flavors, the elegant LE and XLE, while those wanting more sportiness out of their Camry can opt for the SE and XSE. The XSE comes with an optional black contrasting roof, sportier wheel designs, as well as sportier front and rear bumpers.

From the A-pillar and back, though, and that’s where the familiarity with the outgoing Camry is evident. The A-pillar section looks carried over from the previous generation, while the roofline and C-pillars have been given a sleeker treatment to give this midsize sedan a lowered stance. Wider LED taillights and a new “Beyond Zero” horizon-style badge complete the transformation.

More Sophisticated Than Ever

Moving inside, the transformation of the Camry is much more prominent. There’s a new, thicker, and heavily sculpted dash which consists of a canopy effect that visually separates the driver from the front passenger. Material quality has also been improved from the previous model, with a greater use of soft-touch materials and leather upholstery on the lower sections of the dash. XLE and XSE variants also get upgraded interior upholstery, wherein the XLE uses leather and Dinamica® microfiber-trimmed seats, while the sport-oriented XSE comes with Black with blue lined perforations or Cockpit Red leather upholstery.

On the tech front, the LE and SE models come with a 7-inch digital gauge cluster and 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia System, while XLE and XSE come with a pair of 12.3-inch screens for both the gauges and the infotainment screen. A nine-speaker JBL sound system is optional regardless of the variant. While the infotainment system is new, using it to its full potential requires an active available Drive Connect and Remote Connect trial or subscription. The former adds an intelligent personal assistant to the infotainment that can be summoned by saying “Hey Toyota”, while the latter lets you use the Digital Key–a feature that lets you use your smartphone as a key via the Toyota app.

Related: Why The Toyota Camry Hybrid Offers The Best Bang For Your Buck

You’ll Be Missed, V-6

Engine bay of the 2025 Toyota Camry
Toyota

The Camry is a major contributor to Toyota’s heavy push on hybrids, and in this ninth-generation model, this is the only powertrain you can get. Yes, that means saying goodbye to the V-6, another casualty of ever-stricter emissions regulations. More crucially, the hybrid-only lineup comes with an added appeal because of one crucial addition to make this attractive to those living in challenging conditions.

But An AWD Hybrid Is Now Available

That’s because while the V-6 went the way of the Dodo, the 2025 Toyota Camry now comes with optional all-wheel drive (AWD) for the hybrid drivetrain. On top of the new, fifth-generation Toyota Hybrid System, which consists of a familiar 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine and two electric motors, the AWD version adds a third electric motor to power the rear wheels when more traction is needed.

Without the AWD, the Camry makes 225 horsepower, which is already a 17 horsepower gain from the outgoing model. When you add the AWD, the third electric motor adds seven horsepower to the system’s output, bringing the figure up to 232 horsepower. Do note, however, that the AWD system is an on-demand system, which means that it’s only producing the full 232 horses when additional traction is needed. In addition, Toyota does not disclose the total torque figures of its hybrid drivetrains.

Handling And Safety Improvements Across The Board

While the 2025 Camry seems to carry over its TNGA-K platform, we do think that this will come with chassis upgrades to improve comfort and handling. Actually, speaking of handling, Toyota touts that the Camry has re-engineered suspension for more responsive and agile handling. This is implemented on all variants of the Camry, but the SE and XSE benefit from an even sportier tune for the suspension that improves stability and handling over the standard models even further.

The new Camry also gets an upgraded Toyota Safety Sense suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), and the major highlight is the new Proactive Driving Assist (PDA). PDA basically enhances the already-existing adaptive cruise control by providing steering and braking support during curves and even the detection of obstacles when going through such curves.

Related: 2023 Mid-Size Sedan Battle: Toyota Camry Vs. Honda Accord Vs. Hyundai Sonata

America’s Best-Selling Sedan Continues To Shine

A dynamic side shot of the 2025 Toyota Camry XSE
Toyota

The 2025 Toyota Camry’s changes seem to be incremental from a technical standpoint, especially since the exterior design seems to be a heavy facelift from the outgoing model, but these changes are enough to maintain its dominance in the midsize sedan segment. What’s more, that hybrid powertrain did become more powerful, and, with the added appeal of optional AWD, the Camry will be even more attractive to those living in climates with frequent snow or rain.

Electrification Plays A Major Role

Remember Akio Toyoda’s “I told you so” moment? Electric vehicle (EV) sales have slowed down (albeit still growing) in recent months, while hybrids are becoming more popular than ever, spending shorter times sitting in dealer lots. Now that the Camry is purely offered as a hybrid, Toyota will continue its streak as one of the most popular electrified brands in the world despite not having a competitive EV in its lineup.

The highly-popular Camry is also a perfect vehicle to put more Americans in the seat of an electrified vehicle as ownership lifestyle concerns continue to hinder Americans from buying pure EVs. Just how good the new Camry is compared to the previous generation model? Here’s a handy chart to help you see how it has changed from a technical perspective.

2024 Toyota Camry

2025 Toyota Camry

Engine

  • 2.5-liter four-cylinder
  • 3.5-liter V-6
  • 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid with one electric motor
  • 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid with two electric motors (three electric motors for AWD)

Layout

  • Front engine, front-wheel drive
  • Front engine, all-wheel drive
  • Front engine, front-wheel drive
  • Front engine, all-wheel drive

Horsepower

  • 203 hp (2.5-liter)
  • 301 hp (3.5-liter V-6)
  • 208 hp (2.5-liter hybrid)
  • 225 hp (2.5-liter hybrid FWD)
  • 232 hp (2.5-liter hybrid AWD)

Torque

  • 184 lb-ft (2.5-liter)
  • 267 lb-ft (3.5-liter V-6)
  • N/A (2.5-liter hybrid)
  • N/A (2.5-liter hybrid FWD, AWD)

Transmission

  • 8-speed automatic (2.5-liter, 3.5-liter V-6)
  • e-CVT (2.5-liter hybrid)
  • e-CVT (2.5-liter hybrid FWD, AWD)

0-60 mph

N/A

TBA

Base MSRP

$26,420

TBA

Arriving In Dealers In Spring 2024

However, if you want one already, there will still be quite a wait as the Camry isn’t expected to arrive in dealers until Spring 2024. The new Camry has been primarily designed and developed in North America since this is also where the Camry is highly popular. Pricing and full specifications are expected to be announced by then.

This Innovative New Spaceplane Could Transform NASA’s Spacecraft Strategy

Sierra Space emphasizes that the safety of the Dream Chaser is of utmost importance. In the future, when the spaceplane transports astronauts, the well-being of both the astronauts and the crew members on the International Space Station (ISS) will be a top priority. Additionally, Sierra Space understands the significance of safeguarding scientific payloads, as they are vital for NASA’s experiments. To address these concerns, the company has incorporated “advanced safety mechanisms” into the design of the Dream Chaser. Furthermore, the spaceplane’s innovative construction enables a reentry at fewer than 1.5 g-forces, ensuring the preservation of delicate cargo.

Sierra Space envisions the Dream Chaser as a catalyst for sustainable space travel. The company has dedicated years to developing a propulsion and oxidizer-fuel system that is more environmentally friendly than previous models. The high reusability of the spacecraft and its adaptability for various missions further solidify its sustainability. By enabling landings on commercial runways and facilitating quick turnaround times between missions, the Dream Chaser minimizes the need for constructing new spacecraft. Consequently, there will be a reduced demand for low-Earth orbit vehicles.

The inaugural launch of the Dream Chaser is planned from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, utilizing United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan Centaur rocket to carry the Tenacity into orbit. The spaceplane will complete its first return trip by landing at the NASA Space Shuttle Landing Facility.

Le Mans-winning Ferrari 499P gives rise to £4.6m track car

Ferrari has created a new track car based on its Le Mans-winning 499P racer, called the 499P Modificata. Although Ferrari has not provided specific performance figures, racing driver Antonio Fuoco achieved a top speed of 213mph during testing of the 499P, and it is expected that the more powerful Modificata version will at least match this figure.

One of the major challenges for Ferrari was to engineer the powertrain of the 499P Modificata in a way that makes it accessible to less experienced customers. The engine mapping has been fine-tuned to ensure that torque can be easily managed, even at the car’s limit.

The torque output has not been disclosed by Ferrari, but it has been revealed that the electric motor produces 132lb ft and in the 296 GT3 model, the V6 engine produces 525lb ft. Therefore, the combined torque output of the two power sources in the Modificata could be around 660lb ft.

Ferrari paid significant attention to the development of bespoke Pirelli tires for the Modificata. The tires were designed to prioritize vehicle dynamics and powertrain delivery management, making them suitable for long, continuous runs. They feature a bespoke tread pattern and are easier to manage during warm-up.

The Modificata does not need to adhere to homologation requirements, which means it is not subject to Balance of Performance constraints. This allowed Ferrari to make the car “more accessible” for less experienced drivers, primarily through aerodynamic enhancements.

Olivier Beretta, the ambassador driver for Ferrari, expressed surprise at how well the Modificata performed, especially considering the extent to which Ferrari pushed its limits.

Ferrari 499P Modificata

Why Now Is The Perfect Time To Buy A Mazda MX-5 Miata

Summary

  • The Mazda MX5 Miata remains popular because it is small, cheap, reliable, and fun to drive, but it may not remain the same due to stricter emissions regulations.
  • Despite its limitations in stock form, the MX5 delivers a unique open-top, sporty feeling and can easily be improved with aftermarket upgrades.
  • The current generation MX5 offers a good interior, modern conveniences, and a 2.0L Skyactive engine, but future models may become heavier and less pure due to the potential inclusion of hybrid technology.

There is no denying that the Mazda MX5 Miata is one of the most famous and loved roadsters ever made. This makes sense; it is the vehicle that made roadsters appeal to everyone. With a low price, Japanese reliability, and fun driving characteristics, it seemed like a no-brainer.

Now, more than three decades after its inception, the Mazda Miata MX5 continues to remain popular. The best part is that it hasn’t lost its identity. The current MX5 ND generation remains small, cheap, reliable, and fun. However, it may not remain exactly like this for much longer.

Regulations with regards to emissions are getting stricter, and cars and car manufacturers need to comply. Whether this is the correct step forward is a debate for another time. However, what is for sure is that enthusiasts are starting to lose great models because of it. With Mazda’s intent to electrify 25 percent of its model lineup by 2030, there is a chance that the current generation of MX5 may very well be the last model powered solely by internal combustion with hybridization on the horizon.

We’ve looked up information from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Best Car Web to put this feature together on the Mazda Miata MX-5.

Related: 10 Nimble Cars That Will Make You Forget About The Mazda Miata

How The Mazda MX5 Came To Be

Mazda MX-5 Miata
Mazda

Before we dive into the reason why you should buy a current generation MX5, we shall first cover the history of the Miata. Back in the 1980s, Mazda had a mission. That mission was to create a sports car that offered similar driving characteristics to British models of the time but infused Japanese build quality and reliability.

The way Mazda did this is relatively simple. They took an engine from a normal Mazda hatchback and dropped it into a much lighter and stiffer soft-top roadster body. This meant that upon release, the MX5 already had reliable and proven underpinnings; the only thing left for it was the driving experience.

Specifications

Feature

2022 Mazda MX5 2.0L SKYACTIV-G I4

Engine Power

181 hp & 151 lb-ft of torque

0-60 Time

5.7 seconds

Top Speed

135 mph

Drive Type

Rear-Wheel Drive

Transmission

6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic

Now, to be completely honest, the driving experience of an MX5 is often over-exaggerated. The car is certainly fun; however, in stock form, the vehicle has body roll, it isn’t all that quick, and models without a rear limited-slip differential can be unpredictable through corners. That being said, for the price, there aren’t many cars that come close to the open-top, sporty feeling the Miata provides and, most of the issues mentioned above, can be easily fixed with aftermarket upgrades.

Related: Why The Mazda MX-5 Miata Is A Timeless Classic Sports Car

The Current Generation Miata Offers More Than Ever

Mazda MX-5 Miata
Mazda

The first two generations of the MX5 remained small and agile. In fact, underneath, they were pretty much the same car. However, when the third generation came around fans were a bit disappointed as the car grew both in size and weight. The good thing, however, is that Mazda realized the mistake made and for the current fourth-generation Miata opted to go for once again a small and agile vehicle. This brought the car back to its original dimensions.

So, the MX5 still drives brilliantly, but it also offers a good interior. Modern conveniences like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available, and AC controls remain on normal physical buttons akin to touch screens on so many modern cars. More premium models also get a Bose sound system, Napa leather, a reverse camera, and a limited-slip rear differential.

The engine under the hood is a 2.0-liter Skyactive unit that pumps out 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. The sprint from 0-60 mph happens in 6.8 seconds. Now, if you take into account that we now have 300 horsepower hot hatchbacks, the Mazda’s numbers seem low. But the MX5 isn’t about all-out speed; it is about the enjoyment of driving, and it should remain that way forever.

Related: Rotary Mazda Miata: Why It Never Happened And Is There A Remedy?

The MX5 Might Be About To Change

Interior Shot Of A Mazda Miata
Bring a Trailer

Japanese automakers like to keep models around for a long time. The current generation MX5 has been out for seven years now and it is nearing the end of its life cycle. You might be thinking that that is actually a good thing. If the car is nearing the end of its life it means we will be getting a newer and better model. Well, maybe, but that isn’t always the case. Automakers are in a bit of a weird spot right now. Governments demand that vehicle emissions be lowered; therefore, automotive brands are trying to find ways to adhere to those rules.

Since many have opted to go electric, other brands seem to follow in an attempt to ensure that they don’t fall behind in terms of technological advancement in the electric car field. This means that more and more new models are going electric without any sure indication that the future is actually electric (there are other alternatives such as hydrogen as well).

Related: 2025 Mazda Miata: Everything You Need To Know

This Presents Challenges for the Next Generation Miata

Mazda Miata
Bring a Trailer

When cars of this size get larger and heavier, the effects on weight can many times have an effect on the driving experience. However, the most important bit of all is the drivetrain. Full electrification isn’t in the making yet. We just don’t have batteries that are small and light enough to be used in a vehicle like the MX5. Normal batteries in a sports car the size of the MX5 will lead to a small vehicle that is heavy and not so impressive driving range numbers. This would completely kill the appeal of the Miata.

Mazda Miata
Bring a Trailer

What might happen, however, is a hybrid system that is expected to be paired with a two-liter four-cylinder engine. Rumors suggest that the upcoming Miata will retain its six-speed manual transmission and may replace the six-speed automatic with an eight-speed dual-clutch unit.

While a hybrid isn’t the end of the world, but it will certainly dilute the purity of the MX5. The car will probably be heavier and maybe larger as it will need to accommodate a battery and an electric motor. The new generation Miata is expected to be released in 2025, so if you want the purest and most enjoyable driving experience possible, head out and buy the current generation Miata. There is a high possibility that this is the last pure and fully mechanical MX5.

Kia Forte Successor Spy Video Shows Sedan Waiting At Red Light In California

A latest spy video reveals that despite the popularity of SUVs, Kia is still committed to sedans in the United States. The spy video shows a new three-box car being tested in California. Although it is not confirmed, it appears to be larger than the K3 compact sedan that was unveiled in August. It also looks different from the K5, which suggests that it could be a successor to the Forte. If this is the case, it is expected to arrive in 2025, as the 2024 model year is already on sale in the US.

There are speculations that the new sedan might come with a name change. Kia is reportedly considering dropping the Forte name and adopting the K4 name, following the trend of using alphanumeric designations. Similar to the Optima, which is now known as the K5, the smaller sedan could also receive a simpler name. It is worth noting that the K4 name is not entirely new, as there was a sedan bearing this name in China from 2014 to 2020.

The prototype seen in the spy video appears to have the complete production body and wide lights both at the front and rear. It rides on two-tone wheels that seem to be borrowed from the Hyundai Elantra, and its rear door handles are subtly integrated near the C-pillar. The partially exposed cabin of the test vehicle reveals a side-by-side screen layout, which is becoming more common in 2023.

It is unclear when the K4 will be unveiled in the US market, but it is unlikely to happen anytime soon since the 2024 Forte was announced recently. Kia has confirmed that the larger K5 sedan will receive a mid-cycle facelift by the end of this year. Additionally, the brand plans to introduce an updated Carnival minivan with a hybrid powertrain in the same timeframe.

In other news, Kia will be discontinuing the smaller Rio after the 2023 model year in the US, but it will be replaced by the new K3 sedan in other markets.

2014 McLaren P1 For Sale in Volcano Red

The McLaren P1 is a groundbreaking hypercar that played a significant role in the development of electric vehicle-assisted hypercar technology, along with the Ferrari LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder. Even after almost a decade since its debut, the P1 continues to gain popularity and value among car collectors. Chicago Motor Cars, known for their expertise in supercars and hypercars, is showcasing a stunning 2014 McLaren P1 in Volcano Red as part of their extensive inventory of exotic cars available on duPont REGISTRY.

This specific McLaren P1, with the chassis number 28 out of 375, features a unique Volcano Red exterior that sets it apart from other examples. The car’s design focuses on weight savings, with portions of the exterior finished in gloss carbon fiber to highlight its lightweight construction. Carbon fiber is used in the front splitter, side skirts, side mirrors, active rear wing, and rear diffuser. This McLaren P1 also comes with a full-body paint protection film for added security during road or track driving. It rides on 19 and 20-inch grey multi-spoke sport wheels, providing exceptional traction for one of McLaren’s most powerful cars.

In the P1’s interior, the carbon fiber tub is complemented by a subtle configuration that prioritizes performance and drivability. Black and red leather covers a pair of carbon sports bucket seats, while gloss carbon fiber and Alcantara dominate the rest of the space. All controls and driving modes are within easy reach, making the driving experience of a McLaren P1 truly remarkable. This car is considered one of the Holy Trinity of hypercars.

The McLaren P1 is equipped with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.8L twin-turbocharged V8 engine and an electric motor. Together, they produce an astonishing 903 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque. This electrified powerhouse propels the P1 from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, with a top speed electronically limited to 217 mph. With its 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and advanced aerodynamics, the P1 delivers exceptional performance not only in straight-line speed but also in handling, making it one of the most thrilling cars ever created. This 2014 McLaren P1 from Chicago Motor Cars is currently available for sale on duPont REGISTRY through the provided link.

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VAUXHALL CONTINUES TO LEAD THE WAY IN E-LCV SALES

  • Vauxhall remains the UK’s best-selling e-LCV manufacturer
  • Almost a third of all electric vans sold so far in 2023 is a Vauxhall
  • Vivaro Electric continues to be the best-selling e-LCV in the UK, with 3,211 sold year-to-date
  • Vauxhall is one of the few manufacturers in the UK able to offer fleets and private buyers a fully electric van across its entire line-up

Vauxhall continues to hold its position as the leading e-LCV manufacturer in the UK, according to the latest figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The Vivaro Electric remains the top choice for buyers, with a total of 3,211 units sold this year, making it the best-selling e-LCV in the country. In fact, nearly one-third (31.83%) of all electric vans sold in the UK so far in 2023 have been Vauxhall vehicles.

James Taylor, the Managing Director of Vauxhall, expressed his satisfaction with the Vivaro Electric’s success in the market, highlighting its popularity among both fleet and private buyers who are transitioning to electric vehicles. As the leading e-LCV manufacturer in the UK, Vauxhall is committed to driving the electrification trend forward.

Unlike many other manufacturers, Vauxhall offers a fully electric van option across its entire lineup, making it an attractive choice for businesses and fleets. As part of its commitment to sustainable mobility, Vauxhall aims to become an all-electric manufacturer by 2028, which is seven years ahead of the UK Government’s deadline.

5 Of The Best Apps For Fantasy Football In 2023

DraftKings is a popular platform for fantasy football, offering its users access to leagues and more through its DraftKings Fantasy Sports apps for Android and iPhone. This app not only supports football but also other sports like hockey, basketball, and baseball. It features thousands of public contests, unlimited lineups, team drafting, and more.

In addition to fantasy sports, DraftKings now offers a multisport sportsbook service and an online casino with traditional casino games as well as sports-themed offerings. However, it’s important to note that sports betting and online gambling may not be legal in all 50 states. You can use their interactive map to check if it is available in your location. For the upcoming fantasy football season, DraftKings is advertising over $10 million in prize money, with a minimum buy-in of $5.

Interested users can download the DraftKings Sportsbook and Casino mobile app for free on Android and iOS through the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store. According to feedback from Android users, the app has received a high rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. The app allows users to join free pools, place bets on teams, play casino games, and manage their financial transactions, including withdrawal requests. DraftKings is known for its app design quality, placing it near the top of the list alongside FanDuel.