(February 2, 2024) Ford said it is simplifying production of the three-row Ford Explorer crossover by cutting the hybrid version and offering more standard features on the 2025 model. Officials hope a new front end with a larger grille, bigger touchscreen and updated center console can help the Explorer remain the bestselling large crossover, a title it wrested back from the Toyota Highlander in 2023 even as volume fell 10 percent.

(February 2, 2024) Fans of driving pleasure in its purest form can look forward to a new arrival from BMW crafted especially for them — the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i is available for the very first time with a 6-speed manual gearbox. The pairing of the manual gearbox with the 382-hp TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine forms the heart of an enticing equipment package that emphasizes the two-seater’s focus on delivering an exhilarating open-top driving experience.

$1 million raised for charity with
the sale of four charity vehicles
    
(February 1, 2024) SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. —  Barrett-Jackson supercharged its kickoff to the 2024 auction calendar with their flagship Scottsdale Auction, Jan. 20-28 at WestWorld of Scottsdale in dynamic fashion. The event featured its largest auction docket in company history with 2,016 collectible vehicles, all selling with No Reserve, for $200.9 million in auction sales. Additionally, Barrett-Jackson sold 1,180 pieces of authentic automobilia for $6.7 million, bringing total auction sales to $207.6 million, the most for a single auction in Barrett-Jackson history.

Updated four and six-cylinder
engines with 48V mild hybrid tech

(February 1, 2024) Driving pleasure and elegantly sporty design. These have been hallmark brand values of BMW since its earliest days, and the new BMW 4 Series Coupe and BMW 4 Series Convertible embody them even more keenly than ever. The 2-liter 4-cylinder and 3-liter 6-cylinder TwinPower Turbo engines benefit from 48V mild hybrid tech to improve efficiency and responsiveness.

Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
now available for 2018-2022 Accords

(January 31, 2024) Honda is offering an exciting new dealer-installed feature upgrade that enables wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality in approximately 631,000 Accord models from the 2018-2022 model years. Announced today, the new initiative is part of the company’s broader sustainability effort, seeking to maximize lifetime value of in-market Honda vehicles by offering upgrades and new digital services.

(January 31, 2024) General  Motors CEO Mary Barra said on Tuesday the automaker would continue to focus in 2024 on growing its EV portfolio, but that plug-in hybrids would play a role in helping GM meet tightening emissions standards. She did not disclose which segments GM will target with plug-in technology or when, Automotive News reported.

Mazda enters mid-size, two-row
crossover segment this spring

(January 31, 2024) IRVINE, Calif. — Mazda North America has announced the first-ever 2025 Mazda CX-70. Utilizing Mazda's most advanced powertrains that offer responsive and electrified performance, CX-70 provides intuitive handling that keeps the driver engaged and in control, whether driving around the city or engaging in lifestyle activities.

(January 30, 2024) TOKYO — Toyota has reported all-time highs in sales and production in 2023 as the Japanese auto juggernaut put the microchip shortage behind it and ramped up factories to meet booming demand in the U.S. and Europe, especially for electrified vehicles. In announcing calendar year results today, Toyota said global sales climbed 7.2 percent to 11.23 million vehicles. The results include sales from the company's consolidated Daihatsu minicar subsidiary and truck making Hino Motors affiliate. This according to Automotive News.

(January 30, 2024) FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif. — Hyundai has released pricing for the all-new 2024 Santa Fe SUV with a premium new design, standard three-row seating, standard 2.5L turbocharged powertrain, and an entry price of $35,345 including destination charge. Santa Fe 2.5L turbo models are arriving at dealers now, with hybrid models arriving this spring.

Magazine finds numerous owners
have reported shattered rear windows

(January 30, 2024) Owners of the 2023 Honda HR-V are reporting their rear windows shattering suddenly, an issue Consumer Reports said warrants a recall. Honda has said a manufacturing defect where the sealer securing the rear glass on some 2023 HR-V vehicles meets the heating of the defroster weakens the glass from the heat.