The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, despite its outdated tech, offers an exhilarating driving experience focused on pure driving pleasure, with minimal distractions and a powerful flat-six engine, making it one of the last of its kind before newer electric models take over.
The Ferrari 296 GTB impresses with its hybrid V6 performance and advanced aerodynamics, offering a planted and dynamic driving experience, but suffers from frustrating HMI controls and interior quality issues.
The Honda Civic Type R and Acura Integra Type S are closely matched in performance, sharing the same engine, transmission, and chassis. While the Integra offers a more refined and feature-rich experience, the Civic Type R appeals to enthusiasts with its aggressive, unapologetic tuner car persona, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts and a symbol of automotive camaraderie.
The 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, equipped with a twin-turbo V6 engine producing 405 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, impresses with its off-road capabilities and driving experience. Despite some skepticism, the truck proves to be a thrilling machine, excelling in rock crawling and high-speed off-roading. The Raptor Assault School, designed to showcase the truck's capabilities, highlights its controllability and fun factor. Priced at $56,960, the Ranger Raptor offers an exhilarating driving experience, making it a worthwhile investment for off-road enthusiasts.
The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe impresses with its powerful turbocharged engine, off-road capabilities, and spacious, well-designed interior. The crossover offers a comfortable and quiet ride on pavement, while the XRT trim proves its off-road prowess with modifications like all-terrain tires and increased ride height. The exterior design has undergone a significant transformation, featuring boxy shapes and right angles, and the interior boasts a range of tech features and ample roominess. With a base price of $35,455, the Santa Fe delivers on its promises, making it a solid choice in the crossover market.
The author recounts a terrifying experience driving an old Postal Jeep, highlighting its dangerous condition and lack of proper maintenance. Despite having driven other peculiar and potentially hazardous vehicles, the Jeep's lack of connection between the body and frame made it particularly frightening. The author invites readers to share their own scary car experiences and discusses the potential use of $3,500 for a car or motorcycle purchase, as well as opinions on window tint and unusual car sightings.
The BMW M2, despite its divisive exterior styling and lack of electrification, offers a thrilling driving experience with its 434 hp inline-six engine, manual gearbox, and old-school design. Priced at $63,200, the M2 delivers power and performance, though with a slight fuel economy regression. Its cockpit features iDrive 8 and optional carbon fiber seats, while its driving dynamics on public roads and the track are described as both tame and exhilarating. Despite its heavier weight and unique appearance, the M2 stands out as a memorable and significant car in today's automotive landscape.
An automotive reporter, experienced with various EVs, rented a Tesla Model 3 from Hertz for five days and found the experience to be unique and eye-opening. The nearly buttonless interior and one-pedal driving were challenging, and the Supercharger network made a significant difference in charging efficiency. The reporter noted that past EV experience did not fully prepare her for the distinct Tesla driving and technology interaction.
The 2023 Audi S6, a mid-level performance model for Audi’s midsize sedan and wagon, impresses with its twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 engine, luxurious interior, and dynamic driving experience. While it offers a comfortable ride in Comfort mode, switching to Dynamic mode transforms it into a corner-hungry beast. However, the steep price, occasional MMI infotainment system hiccups, and the need to purchase expensive packages for certain features may deter potential buyers. Despite these drawbacks, the Audi S6 remains a standout option in the performance sedan segment.
BMW is bringing back the manual transmission option for the 2024 Z4 M40i in the US, aiming to offer a more involving driving experience. The manual transmission is part of a comprehensive package that includes tuned steering, recalibrated adaptive dampers, and staggered wheels and tires. While the automatic version may be faster in a drag race, the manual Z4 is designed to deliver the joy of shifting gears in a convertible setting. BMW plans to produce as many manual Z4s as there is demand, emphasizing the importance of catering to enthusiasts who appreciate the analog mechanical involvement.
The 2024 Chevy Corvette E-Ray, America's hybrid supercar, offers a thrilling driving experience with its combination of a rear-mounted engine and front electric motor. The hybrid system seamlessly delivers power and torque, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of 2.5 seconds. The car's handling, steering, and ride quality are excellent, and it provides the excitement of a V8 engine while also offering the benefits of electric power. The E-Ray's practicality is enhanced by its two electric drive modes, Stealth and Shuttle, which allow for silent and low-speed driving. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as road noise and limited control over the hybrid system, the E-Ray offers exceptional performance and value compared to other hybrid supercars on the market.
A rare and pristine 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 Commemorative Edition, one of only 200 ever produced, is up for sale on Cars & Bids with just 1,700 miles on the odometer. Despite its potential value as a collector's item, the article urges someone to buy and actually drive the car, as it deserves to be enjoyed rather than stored away. While the exact selling price is uncertain, it is unlikely to reach the $100,000 mark. The article emphasizes the rarity of clean SRT-4s due to modifications and neglect by previous owners, making this stock example even more special.
The Porsche 959 is a legendary and technologically advanced supercar that offers a glimpse into the future of Porsche. With features like center lock wheels, height-adjustable air suspension, all-wheel drive, and a water-cooled flat-six engine, the 959 is a marvel of engineering. Driving the 959 is a thrilling experience, with its staged sequential turbos delivering exhilarating acceleration. The car's handling is sharp and communicative, and its adjustable suspension keeps the ride comfortable. While driving on the autobahn, the power and speed of the 959 feel like something out of science fiction. Overall, the 959 showcases Porsche's commitment to creating exceptional cars that are both impressive and durable.
The 2024 BMW i5 is the fully electric version of the iconic 5 Series sedan, offering a sleek design and premium interior. It features BMW's latest technology, including the updated iDrive 8.5 infotainment system and AirConsole for playing video games while charging. The i5 offers a comfortable and composed driving experience, with options for rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and various chassis setups. The range is estimated to be 295 miles for the eDrive40 and 256 miles for the M60 xDrive. The i5 starts at $67,795 for the eDrive40 and $85,095 for the M60 xDrive.
Bentley's 2023 Continental GTC Speed is a luxurious and powerful convertible that offers a solid driving experience. With a weight of around 4,800 pounds, it holds the road effortlessly and feels like a land yacht. Priced at $317,000, it competes with high-end sports cars like the Ferrari Roma and Mercedes Benz S65 AMG. The GTC Speed features a 6.0-liter, twin-turbocharged W12 engine with 650 horsepower, capable of reaching a top speed of 208 mph. It offers four driving modes, including a sport mode that optimizes the engine, transmission, and suspension for a thrilling ride. The cabin is luxurious and spacious for the front passengers, but the back seats are cramped. Overall, the Bentley GTC Speed delivers a fast and enjoyable driving experience.