January 2024

New 2025 BMW 4 Series Coupe and Convertible revealed



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.

An Econoline ready for restoration



This early 1960s Ford Econoline pickup truck looks as if it's ready for restoration. Based on the compact Ford Falcon, the first Ford Econoline utility van and pickup was introduced to the public on Sept. 21, 1960, for the 1961 model year. The design put the driver on top of the front axle with the engine near the front wheels, called "cab over." Early models sported a 144 cubic inch (2.4 L) inline 6 engine with a three-speed manual transmission.
(Photo by Jim Prueter)

Honda enhances ownership experience to Accord with upgrade



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.

GM shifts gear and now plans on plug-in hybrid strategy



(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 reveals first-ever 2025 CX-70 crossover



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.

Toyota reports all-time sales and production records in 2023



(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.

All-new Hyundai Santa Fe starts at $35,345



(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.

Consumer Reports cites defect in 2023 Honda HR-V



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.

New MiniCountryman S ALL4 tackles Iceland in winter



(January 30, 2024) REYKJAVIK, Iceland — Two-digit sub-zero temperatures, deep snow-covered routes and uneven scree tracks promise real challenges. In the midst of Iceland's breathtaking nature, the new MiniCountryman S ALL4 can prove its off-road qualities. In the John Cooper Works Trim with a bright chili red body color and a shiny black contrasting roof in jet black, the grown crossover model already exudes a visually superior presence.