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    2024 Lexus GX Teased for the First Time with Boxy, Burly Styling

    The 2024 Lexus GX was teased today, providing our first glimpse at the next generation of the brand’s off-road specialist. The images show a brutalist design with lots of sharp creases and hard angles and appear to follow a similar formula to the new-for-2023 Toyota Sequoia.The GX is expected to share its platform with the Sequoia and Tundra pickup truck and use the same hybrid V-6 powertrain.At long last, an all-new Lexus GX is on the way. The Japanese luxury brand teased the 2024 GX for the first time today, and the redesign will mark the first major update for the full-size SUV since the current generation debuted for the 2010 model year. Despite a couple of facelifts over the past decade, the GX has grown stale, and the teaser images hint that the 2024 Lexus GX will sport a sharp new design that will bring the SUV into the 2020s. The two teaser photos show off the GX’s lighting, with the headlights taking on a pointy, angular look. They sit beneath a brawny, sculpted hood that is complemented by a muscular-looking wheel arch. Around back we see the GX will wear a trendy full-width taillight with integrated “Lexus” badging. The traditional Lexus spindle grille shape looks like it remains, and the whole design ethos is reminiscent of the latest Toyota Sequoia. LexusLexus provided zero information alongside the images, simply stating the new SUV is “coming soon.” The GX is expected to use the same TNGA-F platform that underpins the Tundra and Sequoia as well as the Lexus LX and not-for-the-U.S. Toyota Land Cruiser. Like the Tundra and Sequoia, the GX will likely ditch the V-8 engine in favor of a twin-turbo V-6, which may be the hybridized i-Force Max setup found in both of its platform-mates. Even if the 2024 GX downsizes on the engine front, it should retain its body-on-frame construction and serious off-road chops. More Lexus NewsThis content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Associate News EditorCaleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan. More

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    Accelerating Change: Hyundai Motor India’s 10-Year Investment Plan for Electric Vehicles

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 first delivery of IndiaHyundai Motor India’s Long-term Investment in Tamil Nadu – EV Ecosystem, Battery Plant, Production IncreaseHyundai Motor India (HMI) has announced a significant commitment towards a long-term investment in Tamil Nadu. This is aimed at developing a robust electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. With a vision to contribute to sustainable mobility and embrace the global shift towards electric vehicles, HMI has earmarked a staggering Rs 20,000 Crore investment over the next 10 years, from 2023 to 2032. This strategic move showcases HMI’s commitment to India’s transition to a cleaner and greener future.The automotive industry is undergoing a transformative phase, with electric vehicles emerging as a key driver of the future. Recognizing the immense potential and favourable conditions in Tamil Nadu, Hyundai Motor India continues to accelerate the transition towards carbon-neutral manufacturing and EVs in the state. This investment not only demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to the Indian market but also positions Tamil Nadu as the preferred manufacturing and EV hub in the country.Hyundai Motor India and Tamil Nadu – Long term Partnership, Investment PlansHyundai Motor India’s investment plans are comprehensive and far-reaching. The company aims to leverage this substantial capital infusion to increase production volumes and introduce a wide range of new electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. By doing so, HMI seeks to cater to the growing demand for clean and sustainable mobility solutions in India.The continued partnership between Hyundai Motor India and the state is formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Guidance Tamil Nadu, a nodal agency for industrial development in the state. This collaboration solidifies the commitment of both parties to drive the growth of the EV ecosystem and foster technological advancements in the automotive sector.Battery Pack assembly plant, Charging InfrastructureHyundai Motor India’s investment plans in Tamil Nadu encompass a wide range of initiatives aimed at modernizing the vehicle platform and infrastructure. The company envisions implementing its investment in a phased manner over the next 10 years, ensuring sustainable and impactful growth. A primary focus of the investment is the establishment of a state-of-the-art battery pack assembly unit. This facility will have an annual capacity to assemble 1,78,000 units of batteries.Recognizing the critical need for a robust charging infrastructure to support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, Hyundai Motor India plans to set up 100 charging stations across Tamil Nadu over the next 5 years. The count for Dual Ultra-Fast Charging Stations (DC 150 KW + DC 60 KW) is pegged at 5 units. 10 Single Fast Charging Stations (DC 150 KW) will be set up. The majority of Single Fast Charging Stations (DC 60 KW) amounts to 85 units. This extensive network of charging stations will enable EV owners to conveniently charge their vehicles and alleviate range anxiety.Hyundai Production Volume Expansion, Future Sustainable TechnologiesTo meet the growing demand for electric and internal combustion engine vehicles, Hyundai Motor India aims to increase its total production volumes to 8,50,000 units per year. This expansion will be realized through the introduction of new Electric & ICE vehicles from the existing Sriperumbudurn plant in Tamil Nadu. By leveraging their expertise and advanced manufacturing capabilities, Hyundai is poised to play a significant role in continuing to shape the future of mobility in India.In addition to their immediate investment plans, Hyundai Motor India is committed to exploring and adopting future sustainable technologies. With rapid advancements taking place in the automotive industry, Hyundai recognizes the importance of staying at the forefront of innovation. By actively investing in research and development, Hyundai aims to introduce cutting-edge technologies that not only enhance the performance and efficiency of their vehicles but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. More

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    Maserati Will Bid Farewell to the V-8 at the End of 2023

    Maserati confirmed it will end production of the V-8 for all models by the end of 2023. The Trofeo versions of the Levante, Ghibli, and Quattroporte are the only cars in Maserati’s current lineup with a V-8 option.The Trofeo-based Ghibli 334 Ultima and Levante V8 Ultima will be Maserati’s final V-8 models and will be revealed at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. While we were still celebrating McLaren’s recently renewed vows to the hybridized V-8, Maserati informed us it will be removing the V-8 option from its vehicles. Production of the company’s V-8 will officially cease in late 2023 as the manufacturer shifts its focus to the Nettuno V-6 engines. The unfortunate shift is part of Maserati’s “Dare Forward 2030” electrification plan wherein every model will have an internal-combustion and hybrid variant by 2025, and the lineup will be fully electrified by 2030. MaseratiAs things stand now, the Trofeo versions of the Levante, Ghibli, and Quattroporte are the only cars in Maserati’s lineup to come equipped with the V-8. It looks like the V-8 Quattroporte will die out with the model’s current generation, but the Levante and Ghibli will both earn another run of V-8–equipped models. Details are scant, but we know the Ghibli 334 Ultima and Levante V8 Ultima are Maserati’s swan song for the eight-cylinder mill. Both cars are planned to be revealed in full at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in July. It seems unlikely that Maserati will tinker with the engine itself for those versions, with the manufacturer more likely to give it a special livery and bodywork. In its current form, the twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V-8 produces 580 horsepower and is capable of charging the Levante SUV to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The twin-turbo V-6 Nettuno engine in the MC20 may be down two cylinders, but it’s incredibly power dense and cranks out over 620 horsepower. Proselytizers of the V-8 religion won’t find solace, but anyone who can find joy in a bit of induction noise and wastegate flutter should be content.This content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Associate News EditorJack Fitzgerald’s love for cars stems from his as yet unshakable addiction to Formula 1. After a brief stint as a detailer for a local dealership group in college, he knew he needed a more permanent way to drive all the new cars he couldn’t afford and decided to pursue a career in auto writing. By hounding his college professors at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, he was able to travel Wisconsin seeking out stories in the auto world before landing his dream job at Car and Driver. His new goal is to delay the inevitable demise of his 2010 Volkswagen Golf. More

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    Royal Enfield Interceptor BEAR 650 Name Trademark – For Scrambler?

    Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 BEAR. Image – Bullet Guru.The single exhaust setup can make the upcoming Interceptor BEAR 650 the lightest RE 650ccRoyal Enfield currently has around 13 motorcycles planned for launch. The company is bracing for an action-packed future. They will be increasing production with an all-new facility. There are a total of six 650cc motorcycles in the works, out of which, Royal Enfield recently trademarked a name for one.That trademarked name is “Interceptor Bear 650” in New Zealand and “Royal Enfield Interceptor Bear 650” in India and Australia. Bear name signifies something that dwells in the woods. So, an off-roader of sorts. But the name also has 650 in it and Himalayan 650 test mule sightings are still zero. So, this could be a Scrambler, already spotted testing multiple times.RE Scram 650 Might Get Interceptor Bear 650 NamePreviously believed to be Scram 650, is likely to be called Interceptor Bear 650 when launched. The name makes sense in Royal Enfield’s product portfolio as it is based on an Interceptor 650, to begin with. Trademarking a name is often a hassle. Royal Enfield sold Interceptor 650 in the USA as Int 650 as Honda owns the trademark for Interceptor name there.This upcoming scrambler motorcycle is a derivative of Interceptor 650. Test mules have made multiple appearances both here in India and abroad. It dons the same frame, fuel tank and even its engine. What the Scrambler has different, is an upgraded suspension and exhaust system.Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 BEARFront suspension setup gets USD telescopic forks as opposed to RSU (Right Side Up) telescopic forks on Interceptor 650. This should enable athleticism in the way it handles. We hope these are not the same forks from Super Meteor 650 with less travel. Rear suspension is still twin shockers. These are different from the ones found on Interceptor 650 with an external gas chamber.Rear subframe is changed and is slightly angled upwards. The main change is in its single-sided exhaust. This is not high-set as expected from a typical Scrambler. There is a new exhaust header as well routing both channels into one pipe. One less exhaust will reduce overall kerb weight. This can potentially be the lightest 650cc offering from Royal Enfield to date.The same 650cc Parallel Twin motorOther changes with Interceptor Bear 650 (believed RE Scram 650) are circular LED tail lights, LED headlights, block pattern tyres and not a lot more. The 648cc parallel twin air/oil-cooled engine generates 47 bhp of power and 52 Nm of torque. Royal Enfield might tune this engine differently on the Scrambler to establish a slightly different character.A 6-speed gearbox, slip and assist clutch, wire-spoke rims, an optional tripper screen with Bluetooth connectivity and turn-by-turn navigation are notable features. Speaking of prices of Interceptor Bear 650, Rs. 3.5 to 3.7 lakh should make it an interesting proposition. More

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    2023 Aston Martin DBX 707 AMR23 Edition Is for Wealthy F1 Fans

    The 2023 Aston Martin DBX 707 AMR23 Edition is a tribute to the brand’s current success in Formula 1 racing.The 707-hp SUV has an exclusive paint scheme that mimics the AMR23 F1 race car and the DBX 707 F1 medical car.Inside, the DBX 707 AMR23 Edition has black-and-green upholstery, carbon-fiber bits, and special badging.Fans of Aston Martin’s Formula 1 racing team—and those wealthy enough to afford the brand’s six-figure DBX 707 SUV—will likely appreciate the new AMR23 Edition. Specially curated by Aston’s Q division, it features an exclusive paint scheme inspired by the AMR23 F1 race car and that’s very similar to the appearance of the 707-hp DBX F1 medical car.Aston MartinCoated in Podium Green, the 2023 Aston Martin DBX 707 AMR23 Edition is further identified by lime-colored accents on the lower parts of its carbon-fiber body kit—just like those seen on the medical car. Both hues are the primary colors on Aston’s F1 racer too. Peeking from behind the SUV’s black 23-inch wheels are large brake calipers that clamp standard carbon-ceramic rotors, and they wear the company’s Racing Green paint. A “Q” badge on the front fenders also identify the DBX’s special vibe.Aston MartinThe F1-inspired color scheme continues inside, with the AMR23 Edition featuring upholstery in Onyx Black and Eifel Green and trimmed with lime contrast stitching. The cabin is also fitted with carbon-fiber trim as well as dark satin elements. When climbing in and out of the twin-turbo SUV, the door sills provide a visible reminder of its motorsport pedigree with their AMR23 logos. The DBX 707 starts at $210,776, but Aston hasn’t said how much the AMR23 Edition costs. The company says it’s currently available for customer orders, along with other AMR23 extras.Extra DBX 707 ReadingThis content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Senior EditorEric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si. More

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    Electric Alpine A290 Hot Hatch Has a McLaren F1-Style Driver’s Seat

    Alpine, the French sports car maker owned by Renault, revealed the A290 electric hot hatch this week.Set to enter production next year, this concept version has a three-seat layout akin to the McLaren F1, but this setup won’t stick around for the final version. The A290 features two electric motors powering the front wheels and employing a quick-witted torque-vectoring system.French sports car brand Alpine is undergoing an electric revolution as it weighs entering the U.S. market, and the A290_β show car revealed this week represents the first of three models that will shape the automaker’s future. Alpine is a subsidiary of Renault and the A290_β is based around the upcoming electric Renault 5 city car, due to hit the market in 2024. The concept’s exterior is 85 percent production-ready, but the show car sports an unorthodox interior with a central driving position à la the McLaren F1.AlpineThe squat, compact body is based on the proportions of its Renault counterpart, but the A290 hit the gym, flaunting bulging wheel arches and beefy bumpers with sizable air intakes. At 159.4 inches long, the hot hatch measures about 9.5 inches shorter than a Volkswagen GTI, although it sits a couple inches wider. Alpine says a special textured paint “makes the surface shine like freshly fallen snow,” which is juxtaposed with the stoney look of the forged carbon fiber found on the front spoiler, side skirts, and rear bumper. The headlights and auxiliary rally lights strapped to the front end feature an X-shaped motif, recalling how vintage race cars wore tape on their headlights to prevent glass from falling on track in the event of a crash. The A290 features a blacked-out roof, while a blue line flows up the A-pillar, transitioning to magenta as it stretches back across the roof and adding some pop to the A290’s profile. Cooling vents in the rear bumper prominently display the battery fans, meant to emulate the visible fans on many high-powered gaming PCs. AlpineThe cabin of the A290_β show car is far more fantastical, sporting a three-seat setup and an unusual exposed structural element that makes up the dashboard and is meant to emulate the front wing of an F1 car. Sabelt harnesses strap the occupants into the carbon-fiber bucket seats, and the driver’s throne is coated in ultralumen, a reflective material that also appears on the dashboard and steering wheel. The dashboard and door panels are clothed in an eco-friendly leather.Many of the controls are mounted on the roof, and the cabin is devoid of screens, although there is a head-up display. Alpine also envisions a special headset for the driver that would provide updates on the track condition and the flags being used during a race. The production car will presumably abandon the three-seat setup and install at least one infotainment screen. AlpineThe A290’s steering wheel draws from motorsports, with an octagonal shape and an “overtake” button that provides a 10-second power boost. The wheel also has buttons for the radio, pit-lane speed limiter, and ABS settings. Along with 11 degrees of adjustment for the ABS, the A290 will have three drive modes: Wet, Dry, and Full, which unlocks all of the power from the two front-mounted electric motors. Alpine says the overtake button will carry over to the production car.Alpine only provided a few tidbits about what’s going on underneath the sheetmetal. The A290 will be front-wheel drive, with clever torque vectoring allowing for the oomph to be individually meted out to each wheel. The rear suspension features a multilink design and the A290 will share its Brembo four-piston brakes with the A110 sports car. The A290 also wears specially developed Michelin tires with flashy white lettering, which wrap around white aluminum 20-inch wheels with a unique, boxy design and blue accents. Production of the new electric Renault 5 and the sporty Alpine A290 is due to begin in 2024, and Alpine is also plotting an electric crossover and a battery-powered replacement for the highly praised A110 coupe. Earlier this year Alpine also revealed that it was working on two electric crossovers developed for the American market with a targeted on-sale date of 2027, and Alpine reportedly began discussions with AutoNation over a retail partnership. Sadly, the brand isn’t expected to bring the A290 hot hatch or the A110’s successor stateside.More Wild French Concept CarsThis content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Associate News EditorCaleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan. More

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    2023 Ram 1500 Rebel, TRX Lunar Edition Are Ready for Take Off

    The 2023 Ram 1500 Rebel and the widebody TRX model will be offered as an extremely limited Lunar Edition.The Lunar Editions feature exclusive Ceramic Gray paint as well as an interior with blue contrast stitching.The Rebel Lunar Edition starts at $72,205, and the TRX Lunar Edition starts at $108,340.Earlier this week, Ram released a short video teasing a new pickup truck. While it was thought today’s reveal might see the Ram 1500 adopt a version of the Hurricane twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with up to 510 horsepower, instead it’s another limited-production model with exclusive paint called the Lunar Edition.While Ram didn’t mention any production numbers, the brand did say the Lunar Edition will be extremely limited when it becomes available later this spring. It’ll be offered on the off-road-oriented Ram 1500 Rebel as well as the more extreme 702-hp Ram 1500 TRX.Rebel Lunar Edition.RamAs with the limited-production Havoc Edition, with its brightly colored Baja Yellow paint, that was revealed late last year, the Lunar Edition also comes with exclusive Ceramic Gray paint. The new special edition also brings Surf Blue interior accents that color the contrast stitching throughout the cabin and can be seen tracing the “TRX” logos embroidered into the back of the seats.RamThe 2023 Ram 1500 Rebel 4×4 with the Hemi V-8 powertrain starts at $59,085, but the Lunar Edition costs $72,205. A large chunk of that surcharge comes from curated add-ons, especially the loaded Level 2 package. The latter includes a 12.0-inch touchscreen, a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, heated seats, a heated steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and myriad driver assists. A set of black-pained wheels and body decals also contribute to the higher price.TRX Lunar EditionRamThe widebody ’23 Ram 1500 TRX starts at $86,450, which includes the 702-hp supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 and other beefed-up bits for maximum off-road action. However, those who want the exclusiveness of the Lunar Edition will have to shell out a more astronomical $108,340. Like the Rebel variant, the TRX’s hefty surcharge is largely the result of only coming with the equally loaded Level 2 package as well as beadlock wheels, body decals, the carbon-fiber interior package, and a panoramic sunroof.Extra Ram ReadingThis content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Senior EditorEric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si. More

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    New-Car Buyers Wary but Curious about Features They Have to Subscribe to

    Most new-car buyers are unfamiliar with subscription-based options, although they’re interested in learning, according to a study by Cox Automotive.Of the 2000 surveyed shoppers, most said they prefer the ability to try out on-demand features before making a long-term commitment.The study suggests there’s skepticism about subscription services when they’re mandatory or appear to be money grabs.New-car buyers have long had to pay extra for certain options, from cold-weather packages that add heated seats and steering wheels to driver-assist suites that bring blind-spot monitoring and other similar tech. But what do shoppers think about the trend of subscription-based options that some automakers are trying? A new study conducted by Cox Automotive suggests a majority of new-car buyers are unaware but interested in on-demand features.Unfamiliar Yet CuriousFor the folks who are unfamiliar with what’s going on, some automakers in recent years have started asking shoppers to pay monthly or yearly subscription fees for various features. Most recently, Mercedes allows owners of select EV models to pay for an “Acceleration Increase” subscription; the upgrade is also offered for a one-time fee. However, other instances have been more restrictive—like when BMW tried charging $80 per month for Apple CarPlay in 2019. In that case, BMW eventually made it standard (a.k.a. free) after facing negative feedback.Marc Urbano|Car and DriverWith the goal of better understanding what consumers think about these types of subscription services, which are also referred to as features on demand, Cox Automotive says it surveyed 2000 shoppers currently in the market for a new vehicle. Although 79 percent said they’re not familiar with the features, 41 percent said they’re interested in them.A majority of surveyed shoppers said they see some benefits to on-demand options, with the biggest perk being the ability to try out certain features before making a long-term commitment. Other top benefits according to the study include the ability to upgrade or downgrade a vehicle anytime, if the vehicle’s base price is lower as a result, and if free trials are offered. Interestingly, the study suggests those who are most open to on-demand options are those considering Ford, Dodge, Jeep, and Tesla models.Curious Yet SkepticalDespite interest from the new-car buyers who were surveyed, the study also suggests there’s skepticism. For example, people said they would be put off by on-demand features that are either too expensive or required.”To gain consumer acceptance, automakers must ensure consumers perceive subscription-based features as a good value and not just a money grab,” said Cox’s Vanessa Ton.Along with not being a good value, the study suggests new-car buyers’ are also concerned about data security and privacy.What Do Buyers Want?Current on-demand options that surveyed shoppers are most interested in are remote start, vehicle locator, heated seats, a dash cam, and a digital key. Future features that draw the most interest are streaming services, virtual assistant, driver-awareness monitoring, vehicle usage alert, and facial-recognition software.Considering not that long ago we discovered subscription menus in a 2023 BMW X1 we were testing, plus the myriad past and present examples, it appears inevitable that automakers will continue to try to implement these on-demand options. The question that remains is whether the majority of consumers will be open to it.About On-Demand OptionsThis content is imported from poll. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.Senior EditorEric Stafford’s automobile addiction began before he could walk, and it has fueled his passion to write news, reviews, and more for Car and Driver since 2016. His aspiration growing up was to become a millionaire with a Jay Leno–like car collection. Apparently, getting rich is harder than social-media influencers make it seem, so he avoided financial success entirely to become an automotive journalist and drive new cars for a living. After earning a degree at Central Michigan University and working at a daily newspaper, the years of basically burning money on failed project cars and lemon-flavored jalopies finally paid off when Car and Driver hired him. His garage currently includes a 2010 Acura RDX, a manual ’97 Chevy Camaro Z/28, and a ’90 Honda CRX Si. More