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While Nissan may still claim that its Altima will be available into the 2027 model year, the news is unequivocal and clear: Nissan's once ubiquitous Altima will finally be getting the axe. The real story behind the Altima’s demise isn't simply a tired narrative about consumers flocking to SUVs. It is a textbook case of corporate miscalculation, shifting electric vehicle timelines, and chronic product stagnation. What We Know From Nissan Nissan Ponz Pandikuthira, Nissan Americas' Chief Product Officer, recently tipped the automaker's hand, revealing to Wards Auto that the Altima and the already-departed Maxima were slated to be replaced by a pair of advanced electric sedans. There was just one problem: the EV market failed to meet the industry's aggressive volume forecasts. Faced with stagnant EV adoption, Nissan was forced to scrap those immediate launch plans, pushing any electric sedan resurgence out to 2029 or 2030. That miscalculation leaves a massive, unprofitable gap in Nissan's lineup. Rather than inject capital into a new internal combustion platform for a car that hasn't seen a comprehensive redesign in eight agonizing years, Nissan is simply letting the Altima run its course while also investing in more promising models. As a side note, in spite of it being almost a decade old, it is a very good-looking sedan. 2026 Nissan Sentra Nissan View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The sales metrics expose the brutal reality of this corporate neglect. Through the first half of 2026, Altima deliveries plunged a devastating 32 percent, down to just 42,288 units. Meanwhile, the smaller Sentra, now actively positioned by executives as a "more grown-up" alternative for remaining sedan loyalists, experienced a far softer 12 percent dip. The Altima isn't the only casualty of this messy transition. Nissan is simultaneously axing the Rogue Plug-In Hybrid after a single, baffling model year. Rushed to market as a stopgap measure, this badge-engineered Mitsubishi Outlander existed solely to plug a hole in dealer showrooms while Nissan desperately finalized its proprietary Rogue E-Power system. What This Means For Nissan Nissan Nissan may ultimately drag the Altima’s aging chassis across the finish line for one final fleet-focused 2027 model year, but the overarching strategy is painfully clear. The Altima isn't dying because Americans suddenly stopped buying sedans. It is dying because Nissan's electric gamble missed the timing window, leaving them with no strategic reason to keep producing and selling an aged gas-burner whose sales are flatlining. Nissan is aggressively correcting course and realigning. View the full article

China Keeps Buick RelevantTo those still asking why General Motors kept Buick instead of Pontiac, the simple answer is China. The brand holds significant value there, and it remains a strong seller that's key to GM's Chinese business. Need proof? Last year, Buick sold 436,729 vehicles in China, easily double its sales in the U.S. For reference, U.S. sales for the company totaled 198,155 units. Buick owes a lot to the expats and wealthy individuals who brought its cars to China during the first half of the 20th century. That gave the brand a prestigious and aspirational image in the country, something GM capitalized on when it returned to China in the late '90s. Today, Buick has several models exclusive to that market, some of which feature names that may sound familiar to us. Buick The LaCrosse LivesOne such example is the LaCrosse. Formerly known as the Allure in Canada, it served as the successor of the Century and Regal. It spanned three generations until it was discontinued in 2019, except in China. As sedans are still a popular body style there, the LaCrosse continued to be produced and was even redesigned in 2023. This year, it gets a few updates to keep it fresh amidst stiffening competition. The refreshed Chinese LaCrosse continues to ride on GM's VSS-F platform, which is also used for the Buick Encore and Envista. Based on photos from the China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, it largely looks the same as the 2023 model. According to Chinese auto website AutoHome, the 2026 update largely focuses on technology than aesthetics. So far, no other details have been provided about what exactly will be new this year. However, the fact that it's getting tweaks is a promising sign for the car's future there. We do see new wheels and grille elements, but that's all we observed from the sole front exterior photo. China MIIT Pure CombustionInterestingly, there seem to be no efforts to electrify the LaCrosse. Despite China's push for EVs, the large (by Chinese standards) sedan remains resolutely combustion-powered only. Pure combustion vehicles still post decent sales over there, especially in parts where the charging grid isn't as widespread just yet. Buick aims to capitalize on that by keeping its more traditional models. The government document suggests that there's only one engine choice available. If so, the sole option is a turbocharged 2.0-liter with 233 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, conservative by today's standards, but should be more than enough for its target market. It's then mated to a nine-speed automatic, and no all-wheel-drive version is offered. It's not like that the company is choosing to ignore electrification, though. Buick China revived yet another nameplate from the past and rebooted it to suit the market. That name is Electra, or more specifically, the Electra L7. It rides on a totally different architecture, but it sticks to being a sedan rather than being turned into a crossover. It's offered as an EV or range-extended EV, and it's aimed at those who'd like their Buick sedan with a more electrified twist. China MIIT Buick View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Pop Up LoveIf there's one automotive trend and design feature loved by almost everyone, it's the pop-up headlights. Often regarded as one of the coolest features ever invented for cars, it is clamored for by most car lovers and fans. Some of the most iconic car designs of all time are closely associated with the pop-up headlights. Off the top of our heads, we remember the original Mazda Miata, the original C2 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, and the original Ferrari Testarossa. The latter recently enjoyed a surprise revival, and it has come to light that it almost got the iconic headlights. Ferrari Almost but not quiteAs reported by Car Expert, when Ferrari was working on the new 849-generation Testarossa, they were seriously considering integrating pop-up headlights, an integral design cue of the original model. Jason Furtado, one of the lead designers of the project, confirmed during an interview that the team was studying Ferrari’s concept and production cars from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s for the 849 Testarossa. Specifically, the team looked at the 512 BB, 288 GTO, F355, and the legendary F40, cars that all became iconic because of the pop-up headlights. Ultimately, as we now know, the project went ahead without the inclusion of the iconic headlights. According to Ferrari, modern safety and homologation regulations ended up forcing designers to go in another direction. Making things difficult was that the 849, if included with the headlights, would need to pass not just one set of safety regulations, but would need to be accredited in every country it would be sold in, like China and the U.S. Both of these countries follow different sets of rules, which would have been time-consuming and costly for Ferrari. In the end, Ferrari still chose to give a nod to the pop-up generation by fixing the headlights into the narrow black bridge featured at the very front of the car. Ferrari says that this is an intentional homage to the headlights of the 288 GTO. Ferrari Pedestrian SafetyPop-up headlights were first used in a production car as far back as 1936 in the Cord 810. It was first conceived as a design feature with aerodynamic applications. There are multiple reasons why the technology no longer exists: advancements in lighting and aerodynamics, and mechanical unreliability. However, the most prominent reason for its extinction lies in safety regulations. Safety boards the world over haven't just improved in-car safety, but have also regulated pedestrian safety. The problem is that when pop-up headlights are in use, in the event of an accident, they become sharp, protruding objects that could seriously injure a pedestrian. Bring a Trailer View the full article

If you've been scrolling through automotive news or social media recently, you might have caught a wild video out of Shenyang, China: a sleek SUV driving through flooded streets, dragging its entire rear electric motor assembly behind it. The vehicle in question is the BYD Tang, a popular three-row SUV from China's leading electric vehicle titan. For American readers, a BYD might not be parked in your local driveway just yet, but they are a global EV powerhouse directly rivaling Tesla. So, when footage of one of their flagship vehicles seemingly dropping a motor went viral, it sparked immediate debate about EV build quality and real-world durability. Here are the fact-checked details of what actually happened. The Viral IncidentThe footage shows a black BYD Tang, an incredibly popular vehicle in China, wading through heavily flooded streets in Shenyang. Beneath its rear bumper, a large metallic assembly—the rear electric drive motor—can be seen fully detached from its mounting points. Astonishingly, the SUV continued to move with its lights on, the motor tethered only by an orange high-voltage wiring harness and dragging against the pavement. Skeptics pointed to the video as proof of shoddy manufacturing. BYD's Statement BYD In its first official response, Chinese giant BYD strongly rejected claims of a manufacturing defect. According to the automaker, the motor detachment was caused by a severe underbody collision while the vehicle was navigating the water. Operating data and physical damage to the vehicle's mounting points indicate the SUV struck a hard, submerged object—such as a rock or a curb—with enough brute force to tear the rear electric motor assembly completely loose from the chassis. Interestingly, this incident aligns perfectly with a public warning issued by BYD Executive Vice President He Zhiqi on July 8, just days before the video surfaced. He clarified that while BYD's "Blade Battery" packs are certified with IP67 and IP68 waterproof ratings for emergencies, these ratings do not mean drivers should blindly navigate deep floodwaters. Unseen submerged obstacles can obliterate a vehicle's undercarriage, shearing off protective plates, support brackets, and as seen in Shenyang, entire drivetrains. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog Takeaway For EV OwnersWhether you drive a BYD, a Tesla, or a Ford Mustang Mach-E, the lesson here is universal: water and cars don't mix. Even if your electric vehicle's battery is sealed tight against water intrusion, the physical dangers lurking beneath murky floodwaters can cause catastrophic mechanical damage. View the full article

Redefining SpeedWhen Bugatti was revived by the Volkswagen Group back in the late 2000s, people expected just another supercar. What was eventually launched was one of the first-ever hypercars, a blend of luxury, history, and speed. Ever since the Veyron's debut of the mighty W16 quad-turbocharged 1,000 + hp engine, it has become the calling card for the models that have followed. With Bugatti now under new management, the decision was made to retire the W16 after the Mistral's production ended. The day has finally come, and Bugatti just rolled out the very last Mistral, with the final ever W16 engine. Bugatti View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Last of Its KindThe last Mistral has just rolled off the production line at the Atelier in Molsheim. Bugatti says the car is an open-top farewell to the W16 engine, and it features a two-tone livery of pearl and sparkle. According to the brand, this car captures the very statement that best describes the Mistral, uttered when it was launched as "The last of its kind." Setting this particular Mistral apart from the others is that the whole concept pays tribute not just to the iconic W16 but also to the Bugatti models powered by it. Emblazoned on the door cards are silhouettes of the Veyron, Chiron, and Mistral. Also etched across different panels of the car is the saying "The last of its kind." You can find it on plaques inside the interior and also at the bottom of the automatically retractable rear wing. For the customer who commissioned the final build, it was vital to also give a homage to the brand founder Ettore Bugatti. His signature can be found on the headrests, door sills, and engine cover, all of which are finished in aluminum. Also immortalized on the center armrest is a plate created in collaboration with Lalique, cast in a frozen crystal glass titled "Spirit of the wind." Finally, a personal touch by the customer is a falcon head placed on the gear lever, a nod to the customer's home region. Bugatti View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article W16 Legacy and the FutureWhen the Veyron project was underway, it was imperative to equip it with the best and most powerful engine available. At the time, due to packaging constraints, a V16 would have been too long, so it was decided to combine two VR8 engines to create the W16 layout. In November of 2024, a one-of-one World Record Edition Mistral recorded a top speed of 282 mph, making it the fastest open-top production car in the world. For reference, the Veyron Super Sport's official top-speed record is just 267 mph, while the fastest W16 configuration was the Chiron Super Sport, with a top-speed run of 304 mph. The Tourbillon is the next-generation model to take Bugatti into the modern era. According to reports, it will feature an 8.3-liter naturally aspirated V16 engine that was developed in collaboration with master engine builders Cosworth. Bugatti View the full article

The Jeep Compass was once the shining star of the Stellantis lineup, boasting three consecutive years of U.S. sales growth from 2022 to 2024. Thanks to a refreshed interior and a larger touchscreen, budget-conscious buyers flocked to the compact crossover as an affordable gateway into the rugged brand. However, the momentum hit a wall in late 2025, and the situation has turned critical in 2026, with sales plummeting a staggering 32% through June. According to a recent report by Automotive News, this dramatic downward spiral far outpaces the general 6% midyear decline seen across the broader compact crossover segment. While Stellantis points to a supplier issue at its Toluca, Mexico plant, compounded by the factory ramping up production for the Cherokee and the highly anticipated all-electric Jeep Recon, dealers on the ground insist the real problem isn't availability. The true culprit behind the empty showroom floors is a massive, unforgiving affordability crisis. Jeep High Payments and Captive Lender FrictionRetailers report that the Compass is no longer competitive because the sub-$30,000 price point has vanished. The 2026 model now starts at $31,945, including shipping, representing a steep $4,000 price hike over just two years. This baseline spike has sent monthly payments soaring, pushing the entry-level vehicle dangerously close to the lease costs of the larger, more premium Grand Cherokee. Furthermore, regional lease specials are heavily restricted, often requiring thousands down and limiting the best terms strictly to returning lessees. Dealership owners are placing the blame squarely on Stellantis Financial Services, arguing the captive lender is acting too much like a traditional bank focused on profit margins rather than moving metal. Pennsylvania dealer David Kelleher noted he found 20 external institutions offering lower monthly payments than Stellantis's captive options for a standard three-year lease. Other dealers anonymously noted that Stellantis seems indifferent to pushing the Compass due to its lower profit margins, even though it remains the cheapest Jeep available for buyers wanting trail-rated capability. Concurrently, consumers searching for better regional incentives are hunting down elusive Compass lease deals just to keep payments manageable. Jeep A Captive CrisisThe Compass sales slump is a self-inflicted wound born from corporate greed and rigid financing. The vehicle itself isn't the problem; dealers report that customers love the vehicle during test drives and praise its utility. The issue is that Stellantis has forgotten the primary function of a captive lender: to subsidize risk and lower payments to drive volume, not to maximize banking profits at the expense of dealership traffic. If Stellantis truly wants to capture budget-minded buyers, executives must aggressively adjust their pricing strategy. In a market plagued by inflation and high interest rates, a vehicle destined for the entry-level tier cannot survive without aggressive lease support. Until the automaker stops acting like a stubborn Wall Street bank and starts offering realistic financing, the Compass will continue to sit on dealer lots. Leadership has previously stated that Stellantis wants prices under the $40,000 mark, but if that means bringing the $30,000 Compass close to $40K, then they're pulling our legs. Jeep View the full article

Stellantis isn't killing off the automotive subscription model, but they are rewriting the rules. For the 2027 model year, the parent company of Jeep, Ram, Dodge, and Chrysler is adjusting its strategy by making highly coveted convenience features free for a decade. It's a calculated move designed to ease growing tension between automakers and tech-weary buyers. Instead of locking daily necessities behind a paywall, the company is moving app-based remote engine start into its standard, no-cost Connect One tier. While premium data packages still carry a fee, giving away access to core hardware for 10 years marks a massive compromise in an industry obsessed with microtransactions. ChatGPT Like a Free Trial but LongerThe core change expands the complimentary Connect One tier to include functions drivers rely on daily. Alongside remote start, the ten-year zero-cost package bundles remote door locks, over-the-air updates, and automatic SOS calling. This ensures that Connect ONE rolls out across the corporate lineup without forcing buyers into immediate monthly payments. For drivers wanting full internet, premium add-ons remain subscription-based but receive a price cut. The Connect Wi-Fi Plus package, delivering unlimited hotspot data and stolen vehicle tracking, drops to $15.99 a month. Premium buyers of the 2027 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, Wagoneer S, and Alfa Romeo models get an even better deal, scoring three years of the upgraded Connect Plus tier for free. Older electronic architectures incompatible with Connect One require a slightly different approach. The Jeep Compass and Dodge Durango will use a similar 10-year Safety bundle instead of the full system. Stellantis is also restructuring infotainment options, letting buyers bundle discounted three-year SiriusXM satellite radio subscriptions directly into their vehicle’s initial MSRP or financing paperwork. Cole Attisha A Smarter Subscription BalanceTo be clear, the subscription model is alive and well because executives believe subscriptions make money more reliably than hardware sales. We've watched the industry push boundaries, prompting rivals to mock brands charging for heated seats or locking basic garage door controls behind digital tollbooths. Stellantis isn't abandoning this ecosystem; they are simply choosing battles wisely. By offering remote start free for a decade, Stellantis strikes a fair compromise that honors built-in hardware while keeping premium data services behind a paywall. It proves automakers can chase recurring software revenue without alienating the people behind the wheel. It's not the death of the car subscription, but rather a blueprint for making it livable. Dodge View the full article

A Familiar Name, But a Very Different SUVThe Nissan Pathfinder has been holding down the fort as one of Nissan’s go-to family haulers in North America for years. It slots in just under the Armada, and thanks to its three-row seating, trusty V6, and genuine practicality, it’s still the brand’s second-best seller in the US. But head on over to China, and the Pathfinder you’ll find there is basically a different species. Dongfeng Nissan rolled out its own Pathfinder concept three years ago, and instead of just tweaking the American version, it went all-in on what Chinese buyers actually want. Now, for 2026, the Chinese Pathfinder gets another round of updates. It’s not a total overhaul, but the tweaks keep pushing it further into luxury territory – and make the American version look even more buttoned-down by comparison. Dongfeng China Fresh Looks Without Reinventing the FormulaDongfeng Nissan didn’t mess with the Pathfinder’s basic shape for 2026, but they did add some fresh styling and tech enhancements. There’s a new Obsidian Black Gold two-tone paint job that screams premium. There’s also a new set of 20-inch multi-spoke wheels, which add some flair without going overboard. Up front, you still get that wide, chrome-heavy grille melting into the headlights. Out back, slim taillights are tied together by a black trim piece with the Nissan badge, and the Pathfinder name is stamped loud and proud underneath. It all helps the rear look a bit cleaner and wider. Inside is where things really get interesting. The dashboard now rocks dual digital displays powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip running Nissan’s latest OS. There’s even AI voice control, so the infotainment finally keeps up with what Chinese SUV buyers expect these days. Thankfully, Nissan didn’t ditch all the physical buttons – climate and other key controls are still real, so you’re not stuck hunting via screens while driving. You can pick six or seven seats, and the whole cabin is loaded with soft-touch materials from front to back. Dongfeng China Same Turbo Power, Different PersonalityUnder the hood, the Chinese Pathfinder is powered by Nissan’s 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder, producing 248 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a ZF nine-speed automatic with wide gear ratios that are intended to improve both punch and fuel economy. Pricing kicks off at RMB 219,800 (about $30,500), while the top-spec four-wheel-drive version goes for RMB 249,800 ($34,700). As cool as the Chinese Pathfinder is, we’d still pick the North American version. There’s just something about its tougher looks and old-school but reliable V6 that’s getting rare in today’s sea of crossovers. Still, we wouldn’t mind stealing the Chinese model’s dual screens, Snapdragon chip, and slick infotainment. If Nissan ever mashes up the US model’s rugged vibe with the Chinese version’s tech, that could be the real sweet spot. Dongfeng China View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Minivan CrazeThe minivan segment was conceived and born in America, catering to the needs of a rapidly growing nation at a time when SUVs were still too bulky and unrefined; the minivan was an easier-to-drive option for both mom and dad. While SUVs have caught up, the minivan market in the U.S. remains substantial, accounting for 2.4% of total vehicle market share. Many major brands play in this field, with the Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna leading the way, but one major Japanese brand isn't on the list. Nissan hasn't sold a minivan in the U.S. since the Quest ceased production in 2009; however, it just refreshed its legacy Elgrand minivan for Japan, and it just might work in America too. All-new ElgrandThe Nissan Elgrand is the Japanese automaker's flagship minivan; it has always been the plusher option for moving multiple people, and as such, it goes up against the likes of the Toyota Alphard. Nissan has just pulled the covers off the latest Elgrand, and what makes it significant is that it marks the first all-new generation Elgrand in over 16 years, underscoring the growing market for luxury vans. It was first unveiled to the public back in 2025, taking the whole design inspiration from the Hyper Tourer Concept that was showcased during the 2023 Japan Mobility Show. This latest Elgrand features the third-generation e-POWER hybrid system, coupled with the e-4ORCE all-wheel-drive layout. Also part of the plushness is Nissan's Intelligent Dynamic Suspension, designed to enhance passenger comfort while elevating the overall driver experience. Nissan is so confident in the way it drives that the press release describes the journey as a grand-touring experience that will make you wish it would last longer. The cabin is a vital aspect of the Elgrand, and Nissan has given it their all. It features a design trim with quilting that echoes the exterior Kumiko pattern, a traditional Japanese woodworking craft. Its instrument panel integrates the capacitive switches into a wood-grain-finish panel. A first for Nissan Japan is the use of a 14.3-inch integrated display screen. Surrounding the cabin is a 64-color ambient lighting system, while the seats can be finished in three variations: Dark on the X e‑4ORCE; Ginsetsu on the G e‑4ORCE, expressing the beauty of snow tinted by a faint dawn sky; and Shitan, accented with the purple and blue that signify Japanese nobility aesthetics. Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Movement, Sustainability, and ComfortThe Elgrand isn't just about looks and feel; modern luxury is also dictated by how the vehicle moves. Its next-generation e-POWER has an improved control unit that enhances fuel efficiency and quietness while on the move, while also delivering an engaging drive. The updated e-4ORCE system has been calibrated to reduce body roll during acceleration and braking, making everyday riding more comfortable. A major aspect of luxury mobility is the serenity of the ride itself, and for the first time in Nissan's history, they are debuting the Advanced Active Noise Control, which simultaneously reduces road and engine noise. Rounding out the Elgrand's features are Nissan's patented Zero Gravity seats for improved comfort and the ProPILOT ADAS system. There are two variants of the Elgrand to be sold in Japan, with prices starting at $43,000 (converted) and topping out at $46,000 (converted). Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

When Aston Martin Goes TacticalWhen you think of hardcore military SUVs, you probably picture something from Rezvani and Inkas. But Aston Martin? That’s the brand you expect to see gliding through Monaco, not storming a battlefield. Yet, here we are, talking about Aston Martin’s latest creation, the Dreadnought. The name alone sounds like something pulled straight out of a military shooter, and that's exactly what it is. Rather than hinting at some wild future SUV, Aston Martin teamed up with Activision and Infinity Ward to build the Dreadnought just for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. This thing only exists in pixels, which means the designers could go nuts – no pesky road rules, no crash tests, just pure imagination. No, this is not your garden-variety Aston Martin DBX, but it still screams British opulence, only now it’s ready for a war zone instead of a Whole Foods parking lot. Aston Martin View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Luxury Meets Battlefield HardwareEven though it’s a digital fantasy, Aston Martin didn’t just slap on some armor and call it a day. Every inch was designed as if this SUV could actually roll down city streets or bash through the wilderness. On the outside, you get a mashup of sharp aero, military-grade armor, and proportions that look like someone hit the SUV with a growth ray. But Aston Martin’s DNA is still there – Chiltern Green paint, exposed herringbone carbon fiber, and those fancy metallic bits that remind you this is still a luxury brand, even if it’s dressed for battle. Inside, it’s still pure Aston Martin. Oxford Tan leather is splashed across the dash and doors, there’s a gold gear selector for that extra bling, and the usual buttons are swapped for digital command screens. Oh, and just in case you forget you’re in a war machine, there are reserve fuel tanks and weapons storage to drive the point home. The name Dreadnought itself carries a military reference. Beyond meaning "fear nothing," it also pays tribute to HMS Dreadnought, the Royal Navy battleship that revolutionized naval warfare in the early 1900s and inspired an entire class of warships. Aston Martin A V12 Soundtrack – Even If It's Only VirtualAston Martin even made sure that the Dreadnought sounds the part, giving it a virtual V12 roar that’s pure ear candy. No official specs, of course, but in the game, it’s got supercar acceleration and can still tear up the dirt like a proper off-roader. Infinity Ward says they sweated the details, from how the Dreadnought moves and handles to the way it looks in-game. It’s all meant to feel like a real Aston Martin, just with a lot more armor and attitude. If you want to take the Dreadnought for a spin, you’ll find it in both DMZ and Warzone modes. And if you’re in New York, there’s even a full-size showpiece making its debut at Fanatics Fest. Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 drops worldwide on October 23, 2026, for just about every platform you can think of. The Dreadnought won’t be rolling into Aston Martin dealerships anytime soon, but it’s proof that when you let designers off the leash, things get seriously wild. Aston Martin View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Bentley’s first EV is around the corner, and we finally know what it’ll sound like. Yes, you read that correctly. Most electric performance cars try to make up for the lack of engine noise by creating synthetic sounds. Some lean into futuristic effects, like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 N, while others attempt to recreate the rumble of a combustion engine. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4-Door uses an artificial V8 soundtrack, and the Lexus TZ even features simulated V10 sounds that could eventually make their way into the upcoming electric LFA. Bentley, however, has taken a very different approach. Bentley is Replacing Engine Sounds With Music Bentley The British luxury marque has revealed that its first electric SUV, the Torcal, will use a specially composed soundtrack inspired by music, with drums playing the leading role. According to Bentley, engineers studied some of the brand’s most iconic engines, including its supercharged powerplants from the 1930s, the legendary 6.75-liter V8, and the now-retired W12. Rather than focusing on the mechanical tone itself, they discovered that much of a V8’s emotional appeal comes from its rhythm. To recreate that feeling, Bentley recorded a V8 in a studio before developing what it calls the Bentley Dynamic Symphony. As the company explains, the soundtrack is not intended to imitate an engine but “to evoke the same feelings.” Drums provide the heartbeat of the soundscape, while a viola and bass guitar add what Bentley describes as a “powerful and emotive” character. The soundtrack also responds to driver inputs, increasing in tempo under acceleration before calming as the vehicle slows. Bentley's First EV Arrives This September Bentley While the Rolls-Royce Spectre has already established itself as one of the first ultra-luxury EVs, many other high-end luxury brands have been slower to embrace electrification. The Torcal will be Bentley’s first all-electric production model and will make its global debut on September 23 in London. Measuring around 5 meters long, it will slot below the Bentley Bentayga in the lineup, much like the Macan sits beneath the Cayenne in the Porsche lineup. Speaking of, the Torcal will share much of its underlying technology with the upcoming electric Cayenne, while its design will be influenced by the EXP 15 Concept. Built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture developed by Audi and Porsche, Bentley’s SUV is expected to use a 113 kWh battery capable of charging at up to 390 kW, allowing a 10–80% recharge in under 16 minutes. Bentley has not confirmed final power figures, but the Torcal may share similar power figures to the all-electric Porsche Cayenne Turbo S: 1,139 hp and 1,106 lb-ft of torque. A Symphonic Electric SUV Bentley With a targeted range of more than 300 miles, the Torcal won't chase headline-grabbing battery figures. Bentley design director Robin Page previously explained: “Our customers are basically telling us that 300-350 miles is that sweet spot. Beyond that, they’ll use the private jet.” For comparison, the far more affordable BMW iX5 can travel nearly 600 miles on a charge, according to leaked documents. The Torcal is expected to cost between $250,000 and $300,000 when it reaches showrooms. Whether buyers embrace a drum-powered soundtrack instead of a traditional V8, and whether they will be interested in an opulent all-electric SUV in a slowing EV market remains to be seen. View the full article

The immensely popular and award-winning fifth-generation 2011-2019 Ford Explorer may still have a serious and deadly carbon monoxide leak problem that Ford claims to have fixed. The Associated Press reports that carbon monoxide was confirmed to be present in a parked Explorer in Toledo, Ohio, in which five people were found unresponsive. Three of them passed away, including a grandmother and two grandchildren, while the other two victims, also children, were hospitalized in critical condition. The vehicle had been pulled over in a parking lot with a flat tire, and when the grandmother's son arrived to help shortly after 11 AM on Wednesday, 15 July, he discovered the indescribably tragic scene of his deceased mother and children. According to Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz, foul play is not suspected, suggesting there's a problem with the popular SUV. "High Spike" Of Carbon Monoxide Detected In Ford Explorer AOL Toledo Fire Chief Allison Armstrong said that investigators placed a meter inside the Explorer and closed the doors. They recorded "a high spike of carbon monoxide inside the passenger compartment of that vehicle," Armstrong said, and the vehicle was towed by police for further investigation. "They're going to have to do some further investigation to see if they can identify how does that happen (sic)," she said. "I think that's an important piece of this that people want to know, and they should know for everybody's safety." Sadly, this isn't the first time the Explorer has been scrutinized for carbon monoxide leaks. Related: 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor vs 2026 Chevrolet Traverse Z71: Which Is More Capable Off-Road? Armstrong said she saw a "very similar" incident a few years ago, in which it was determined that carbon monoxide had seeped into the vehicle through holes in the floorboard. In 2016, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into similar concerns in certain 2011-2017 Ford Explorer SUVs, and Washington state troopers sued Ford over the concern in 2019, but the NHTSA's investigation was closed in 2023. According to Ford Authority, a police officer's family filed a motion for a new trial in a related incident earlier this year, so without all the facts, it seems as if police officers who safe-idle their cruisers and families waiting for help with flat tires in the summer heat are inadvertently enriching their vehicles with toxic fumes. Are these vehicles that have not been fixed, or vehicles that have been fixed only to have the solution fail? Either option is concerning, but the latter is particularly scary. Ford Is Yet To Respond To Deadly Explorer Incident Jeremy Korzeniewski/Autoblog Autoblog reached out to Ford for comment on this heart-wrenching story, but since investigators have only just begun conducting their examination, it's too early to understand exactly what happened and why, and we haven't heard back yet. We'll update this article once we do, but it'll likely be some time before anybody knows exactly what happened and why. View the full article

Another EV bites the dustThe Honda Prologue has joined a growing list of EVs that failed to see out their full life cycle as automakers increasingly refocus their efforts on hybrids and gas models. In the U.S., many EVs have seen sales crash over the last three quarters, following the loss of the federal tax credit. It’s now been confirmed that the Prologue will go out of production after the 2026 model year, after only being on sale for two years. Its departure will eliminate the sole EV in Honda’s range. An EV That Never Caught Fire Cole Attisha The Honda Prologue was supposed to launch an exciting new EV era for the Japanese brand. But in our first drive, we were underwhelmed by the vehicle, which was too conspicuous as an EV jointly developed with General Motors. It shares a platform with the Chevrolet Blazer EV and many interior bits and pieces are clearly from the GM parts bin. It doesn’t accelerate as quickly as most other EVs, nor does it drive with the verve typical of the brand. Combined with the fact that Prologue sales slid by nearly 50% in the first half of 2026, these issues sealed its fate. “Honda will conclude sales of the Prologue later this year following completion of the 2026 model year,” said a Honda spokesperson to CarBuzz. “Prologue customers will continue to receive full support through our dealer network, including service, parts, and warranty coverage.” Honda Abandons EV Plans Honda Honda already canceled three planned EVs earlier this year as it backtracked on an aggressive EV rollout. Those models included a Honda-badged sedan and SUV, along with an Acura EV that would’ve marked the return of the RSX nameplate. The company also scrapped plans to launch the electric Afeela sedan and SUV, a collaboration with Sony. Lower than expected demand was partly to blame and the company was also spending an extraordinary amount on EV development; it reported its first annual loss due to EV-related projects. Given these challenges, not many are surprised that the Prologue hasn’t survived. Perhaps Honda, which has always promised affordability, should have launched a smaller and cheaper EV in the U.S. market first. The midsize Prologue costs over $50,000 in its top trim but doesn’t offer any class-leading attributes at that price point. What It Means Honda While the departure of the Prologue will leave Honda without an EV in the U.S., the company is still thriving in other segments. Honda just came off its best June sales month in five years, while the CR-V is currently the best-selling SUV in America. Honda’s hybrid models are a hit right now, making up approximately 30% of the brand’s sales. By freeing itself from unprofitable EV projects, Honda can expand its lineup of affordable and fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles—which are the cars consumers actually want. The automaker is planning to release 15 new hybrids globally by 2029. Crucially, this rollout will include larger D-segment hybrids in America, a lucrative segment where Honda currently lacks a competitor. The Prologue will be remembered as a rare misstep for Honda and yet another victim of unpredictable EV demand. Related: Honda Plans 15 New Hybrids, Including Larger SUVs For North America View the full article

BMW's Two-Pronged M3 StrategyBMW already teased us with the M Neue Klasse Concept, giving fans a taste of what an all-electric M3 could look like. The concept came out swinging with wild styling and an 800-volt setup, but left us all wondering: would the real thing actually look like this, and what about the classic six-cylinder M3 we know and love? Now, we’re finally getting some answers. During a recent test day at the Nürburgring, both versions of the new M3 were caught on camera, lapping the Green Hell together. Jump at the 0:14 mark in the video below, and you’ll spot them – BMW’s future tearing up the same track. The Six-Cylinder M3 Lives OnWhile Mercedes-AMG and Audi are busy stuffing their rivals with plug-in hybrid tech, BMW’s M boss Frank van Meel has already confirmed the next gas-powered M3 will skip the hybrid bits entirely. He calls it 'powertrain purity.' We call it sticking to your guns. With a familiar sound from the video, the first spotted M3 runs the has a twin-turbo S58 inline-six, now with BMW’s new M Ignite tech and a lightweight mild-hybrid system to keep the emissions police happy. That move keeps the weight down, too. No giant battery pack means the next M3 should be much lighter than its plug-in rivals. It also means there’s still hope for a manual gearbox – something fans won’t stop begging BMW to keep. Nürburg Automotive/YouTube View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Electric M3 Steps Into The SpotlightThe Nürburgring test session also offered a closer look at the all-electric M3, which is identified by the yellow safety sticker required on high-voltage development vehicles. The production prototype dials back some of the Neue Klasse Concept’s wildest bits, but keeps the essentials. The sharknose front end is still there, along with the hood vent and that wide rear stance. The crazy diffuser and huge fenders? Toned down for the real world. And yes, BMW says it’ll just be called the M3 – no 'iM3' badge nonsense. With both cars now out in the wild, the next M3 is almost ready for prime time. Expect the gas-powered version to land first, likely in 2027, with the electric M3 hot on its heels as BMW rolls out more Neue Klasse models. BMW View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

For years, China has been the proverbial boogeyman for the US auto industry, striking fear into legacy automakers who worry these foreign brands might put them out of business. Despite our government slapping 100% tariffs on imported Chinese vehicles to protect the domestic industrial base, Chinese companies say it's only a matter of time before they breach our borders. The writing is on the wall, and apparently, the consumer demand is unequivocally there for these heavily subsidized, tech-loaded bargains. While Ford CEO Jim Farley ardently wants to bar their entry into our shores, Ford’s Chairman has a slightly different perspective on the long-term reality of this automotive cold war. Farley has continuously warned that an invasion of cheaper vehicles would be devastating to our country, but corporate leadership is beginning to publicly acknowledge that sweeping tariffs and legislative bans are merely a temporary shield, not a permanent solution. US Automakers Must PrepareAccording to a Wall Street Journal report, Ford Chairman Bill Ford stated the inevitable at a recent Axios event in Washington, DC. He made it clear that US automakers must actively prepare to go toe-to-toe with Chinese car companies to survive. “We can’t expect to keep them out forever, and we have to be able to beat them at their own game,” Ford explained, urging the country to adopt a robust, bipartisan industrial policy that stretches beyond short-sighted political cycles. The threat is highly credible. Chinese vehicles, boasting top-tier quality and advanced connectivity, routinely sell for a fraction of American MSRPs. A well-equipped Galaxy M9 three-row plug-in hybrid SUV costs roughly $26,000 to $36,000 in U.S. dollars. With brands like BYD and Geely already capturing 20% of the Mexican market and Canada soon allowing limited imports, the North American market siege has officially begun. Ford's solution isn't just to hide behind legislation. The Blue Oval is launching a family of affordable EVs on its new Universal Electric Vehicle platform, aggressively targeting a $30,000 price point. Starting in 2027 at the Louisville Assembly Plant, Ford will utilize a new "assembly tree" manufacturing process to churn out an all-electric midsize pickup, potentially reviving the trademarked "Ranchero" nameplate, designed by a secretive Skunk Works team operating out of California. Ford Protectionism Only Buys TimeTo be brutally honest, protectionism only buys us time, not innovation. In the near future, your next car might easily be Chinese simply because legacy American automakers have struggled for years to deliver affordable EVs to the masses. Ford's aggressive push toward a $30,000 electric truck is a fantastic step in the right direction, but competing against subsidized global powerhouses requires monumental leaps in cost efficiency that the traditional Detroit assembly line was simply never built for. While Ford itself vehemently denies working together with overseas rivals to produce vehicles stateside, the benefits of doing so cannot be overstated. Sharing vehicle platforms and next-gen battery tech could significantly accelerate our own EV adoption and lower prices for cash-strapped consumers. If we don't figure out a way to rapidly evolve and learn from our biggest competitors, we'll be completely overrun the minute the legislative dam breaks. Edmunds / YouTube View the full article