BMW has introduced the sixth-generation EV powertrain in the all-electric iX3, which features a new design language, improved efficiency with a 108 kWh battery capable of up to 400 miles range, and advanced software and driver assistance systems. The iX3 marks the start of BMW's Neue Klasse platform, emphasizing sustainability, innovative technology, and a new SUV design with a distinctive face. It is set to arrive in the US in summer 2024 with a starting price of around $60,000.
Jeep confirms that the Wagoneer will receive a 663-HP plug-in hybrid powertrain, similar to the one in the Ramcharger, featuring a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a 92 kWh battery and two electric motors. This move comes after initial Wagoneer models launched with less fuel-efficient V8 engines, and the new hybrid option is expected to significantly improve performance and fuel economy.
Ferrari introduces the 499P Modificata, a modified version of their Le Mans-winning race car, allowing customers to experience its power on the track. The Modificata features tweaks that comply with track regulations, including a lower speed range for the electric motor and a "Push to Pass" system that temporarily boosts horsepower. Other modifications include engine and driveability map revisions, updated traction control logic, and a new start-assist logic. The car is equipped with a mid-mounted 3.0-liter V6 engine, a seven-speed sequential gearbox, and a single-seat cabin. Ferrari's new Sport Prototipi Clienti program provides logistics, track-side assistance, and maintenance for customers. Pricing and production numbers have not been disclosed.
A prototype Ram TRX pickup truck has been spotted with a quiet engine sound that resembles the twin-turbo Hurricane inline-six engine, suggesting that Ram may be considering this engine for future TRX models. While it is unconfirmed, the power and performance exhibited by the truck indicate that it could be a powerful Hurricane engine, potentially even more potent than the current V8. The engine in the prototype sounds better than previous Hurricanes, and the gearbox delivers crisp upshifts. This development confirms that Ram is seriously considering the Hurricane engine to continue the TRX lineage.
SRAM has unveiled its new e-bike motor called the Powertrain, which produces 90 Nm of torque and 680 W of peak power. The motor integrates with SRAM's existing AXS and Eagle Transmission components and offers two motor modes, Rally and Range, which can be customized through the AXS app. The motor hardware is manufactured by Brose, while SRAM handles the software. The Powertrain motor will be used in new models from Nukeproof, Propain, GasGas, and Transition. The motor has received positive initial impressions for its power delivery and quiet operation, but there are some concerns about the lack of a dedicated remote and limited customization options on the display.
A Jeep Wrangler owner shares his experience with the vehicle after four years and over 40,000 miles of use, noting that while there were some powertrain-related issues, they were easy to fix. The owner also mentions the accelerator pedal lag, which was resolved by installing an aftermarket throttle response controller. Despite initial concerns about reliability, the owner says the Wrangler has been mostly trouble-free and would consider buying another Jeep in the future.
The manual transmission option for the Dodge Challenger Hellcat is back for the 2023 model year, according to a Virginia dealership. Dodge had temporarily dropped the manual option in 2021, citing the need for updated calibration. The manual is available on both standard and Widebody models, and the first five orders will be sold at MSRP. The Challenger Hellcat is being discontinued after 2023, making the return of the manual transmission a fitting send-off for the modern classic.
Toyota has announced that its 2024 Tacoma pickup truck will feature a new i-Force Max hybrid powertrain, making it the most powerful Tacoma ever made. The hybrid Tacoma will come with a 2.4-liter engine and a 48-horsepower electric motor, creating a system that's capable of delivering 326 horsepower with 465 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid i-Force Max powertrain will be available on several models, including the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, Limited, TRD Pro, and Trailhunter. The new hybrid models are expected to arrive in early 2024.
Hyundai has introduced the Exter, a smaller and more affordable urban SUV positioned below the Venue, in India. The Exter will share powertrain options with the Grand i10 Nios and Aura, with both petrol and CNG engines available. The vehicle features modern styling with split headlights, large bumper intakes, and a "floating roof" effect. It is expected to launch in India in July and compete against other small SUVs such as the Suzuki Ignis and the Tata Punch. There are rumors that it will be a global model mainly targeting emerging markets.
The Dolmette is a custom motorcycle built by Germany's Rötger Feldmann, powered by 24 chainsaw engines, making a claimed 170 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Each engine has to be individually pull-started by hand. Despite being impractical, it's a wacky creation that showcases Feldmann's creativity and love for unnecessarily complicated powertrains.
Mercedes has unveiled the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, an electric SUV with ultra-luxury appointments including special cup holders designed to hold champagne flutes. The Maybach version has the same overall dimensions as its Merc brother, but the powertrain is significantly more potent, with an AWD, dual-motor affair outputting 649 hp and 700 lb-ft. The electric range is higher too, with a provisional WLTP range of 372 miles on a charge. The interior is packed with exclusive features including wood panels, front-and-rear massaging seats, and more pillows than a bed.
Audi is preparing for a second refresh of the Q7 SUV, with a revised front fascia, new headlights, and a redesigned lower bumper. The interior changes are unknown, but bigger screens are possible. Powertrain changes are also a mystery, but given the emphasis on EVs, we don't expect major changes to the Q7's combustion engines. The updated Q7 is expected to debut in the second half of 2023, with variants of it on the road for over 10 years by the time Audi retires this iteration of the SUV.
The new Toyota Prius Prime has made significant improvements in horsepower, range, handling, and styling, making it a compelling alternative for EV buyers. While the architecture remains the same, the battery is bigger, and the motor is more powerful, resulting in an overall much better car. Toyota's approach to plug-in hybrids makes sense in a resource-limited world, where battery manufacturing and production of battery resources are limited. The company expects to sell about 50,000 Prius cars this year, with about 15,000 of them being the plug-in Prime.
Toyota has announced that the fourth-generation Tacoma will be joining its hybrid fleet with the electrifying I-Force Max performance. However, there is very little information about the powertrain of the next Tacoma, but it is expected to have stronger power numbers than the current models. Toyota already has 13 hybrids in its portfolio, and it's not a surprise that the Tacoma is going hybrid. The automaker is taking a slow-burn approach to the release of the next Tacoma, but it's expected to sell a lot.
Lamborghini has unveiled its latest supercar, the Revuelto, which is the Italian marque's first series production hybrid. The vehicle features a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V-12 engine connected to three electric motors, producing a total output of 1,001 horsepower and 793 ft lbs of torque. The Revuelto can go from zero-to-60 mph in under 2.5 seconds and hit a top speed of 217 mph. The vehicle is built upon Lamborghini's new "monofuselage" chassis, which makes ample use of carbon fiber and the automaker's patented forged composite material to keep weight down. The Revuelto is expected to launch later this year, followed by a hybrid Huracán and Urus next year.
