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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Khris Bharath – May 29, 2025

Alpine’s 2028 Supercar: 1,000 HP, Hybrid Tech and Racing DNA

French sportscar maker Alpine, part of the Renault Group, known for its niche rally cars, and more recently, the modern-day A110 and Formula 1 team, is now preparing to take the leap into the world of supercars. At an event unveiling the brand’s A390 crossover earlier this week, Renault Group CEO Luca de Meo confirmed Alpine’s upcoming flagship: A 1,000 horsepower hybrid performance supercar, set for a 2028 launch. The plan is for a turbocharged V6 driving the rear wheels paired with two electric motors on the front axle, one for each wheel. With a projected 1,000 horsepower, Alpine’s yet to be named upcoming flagship, will take on the likes of the Ferrari SF90 Stradale and the Lamborghini Revuelto. However, given that a turbo V6 will power the Alpine 's 2028 supercar and the brand’s F1 connection, it also seems to align with the Mercedes-AMG One, which packs a 1.6-liter turbo V6 and four electric motors for a total system output of 1,063 horsepower. No details on the exact displacement of the Alpine’s V6, so we can’t confirm this just yet. But something that the two cars do share is motorsport-bred pedigree. “This car has three objectives,” Alpine boss Philippe Krief told TopGear. “One is to bring Alpine up. You need this kind of car as it holds up all the rest of the range. Second, it's a laboratory of innovation, for the supercar, then for Alpine, and then for the whole Group. Third, it will make a good business.” Hypertech, a new Renault Performance division spun off from the French marque’s World Endurance Championship program and the engineering talent behind Alpine’s racing machines, will develop the upcoming supercar. It will feature a lightweight body made from carbon fiber and aluminium. As for the design, it unfortunately won’t look anything like the stunning 6-cylinder hydrogen-powered AlpenGlow concept seen here. “This is a road car, very different,” Krief said. The Le Mans-inspired design was never meant for urban duty. The upcoming supercar will be purpose-built for the street. Having said that, head-turning design will be essential to break into a segment already dominated by established players. So hopefully, the production car draws some cues from the Alpenglow concept. Krief, of course, is no stranger to the world of low-volume performance cars as he has led the development of models like the Ferrari 458 and the Ferrari SF-90 Stradale. He also played a pivotal role in the engineering of the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio SUV. For Alpine, meanwhile, whose lineup is currently anchored by the ageing but brilliant A110 sports car, this will mark a major shift. The brand has plans to launch five all-electric models before 2030, and a larger vehicle, designed specifically for the U.S. market. Could the new supercar carry a heritage nameplate like the A310 from the early 1970s? We don’t know yet. The closest production Alpine exotic we’ve seen in recent times is the Alpine AGTZ Twin-tail from Zagato. The upcoming French supercar will join the legacy of other low-slung mid-engined exotics like the Peugeot Oxia, the Citröen GT, and a long line of Bugattis, now under Bugatti-Rimac. Watch this space. View All Exotic And Supercars For Sale Source: Alpine, TopGear

By Khris Bharath – May 28, 2025

1-of-1: America's ONLY Guards Red 997 Speedster Is Up For...

Porsche’s ‘Speedster’ nameplate carries serious weight in collector circles. The German sports carmaker doesn’t build Speedster models that often, but when it does, it is worth celebrating. Born from the stripped-down, low-slung 356 Speedster of the 1950s, the formula has always been about making the car lighter, lower, and more driver-focused. Besides this, some distinctive design cues like the double-bubble rear tonneau cover and steeply raked windshield set the Speedster apart from other 911s. Fast-forward several decades, and that same ethos carried through into the 997-Speedster, built for the 2011 model year. Compared to other Speedster models from other 911 generations, the 997 is by far the rarest, making it one of the most collectible 911s. Porsche only built 356 units of the 997 Speedster as a nod to the 356 lineage, and of those, 100 made it stateside. This particular Guards Red example, on sale right now hails from a private collection and is a unicorn. It is reportedly one of just two examples globally, finished in Guards Red and the only one delivered to the United States, making it a 1-of-1 in America. The exclusive sport-classic 19-inch black Fuchs wheels and wide-body Carrera 4 shell complement the Guards Red paint, which was a special order $5,500 option. It is worth noting that Porsche only offered two standard colors for the 997 Speedster: Pure Blue or Carrera White. Inside, this car is equally distinctive from the ‘Speedster’ script on the black sports seats to the deviated stitching and the checker-delete cabin. The extended leather package covers everything from the speaker grilles to the dashboard. It also comes with illuminated door sills and a numbered dash plaque: #320 of 356, signifying this sports car’s exclusivity. Other rare factory options include a factory fire-extinguisher, Bluetooth, and Bose surround sound. When it comes to performance, the 997 Speedster packs a 3.8-liter flat-six, and while this is no Mezger engine, it still delivers 408 horsepower, making it more potent than the Carrera S of its day. Paired with a 7-speed PDK transmission for lightning-fast shifts, Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes (PCCB), Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and a limited slip differential, should make for a well rounded package. With just 4,515 miles on the clock, this Guards Red Speedster is as rare as it gets in the Porsche world, and if exclusivity is high up on your list of priorities, this one shouldn’t be missed. View Listing View All 911 Porsche Speedsters For Sale Images Source: GH Vehicles

By Khris Bharath – May 28, 2025

Stellantis Appoints Jeep's Growth Architect Antonio Filos...

Stellantis, the automotive conglomerate behind brands like Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, RAM, Peugeot, Alfa Romeo, and Fiat, has appointed Antonio Filosa as its new CEO, effective June 23, 2025. This decision ends months of uncertainty following the abrupt departure of former CEO Carlos Tavares, whose tenure came to an end in December 2024 amid slow sales and declining profits. Filosa’s appointment comes at a turbulent time where the fourth-largest automaker in the world reported a 14% drop in its first-quarter revenue, and shares of the company have further taken a hit amid President Donald Trump’s U.S. import tariffs, that affects 40% of all its sales in the United States, subsequently leading the company to suspend its full-year guidance. Filosa, a 51-year-old executive who originally hails from Italy, brings over 25 years of experience. Starting at Fiat back in 1999, he has risen through the ranks within the company. His tenure includes pivotal roles such as Chief Executive Officer for South America and the Americas, as well as the CEO of the Jeep brand. Most notably, Jeep’s presence expanded significantly in Brazil under his leadership, making it the largest market for the American automaker outside the United States. In more recent times, Filosa has been quietly reforming and revitalising Stellantis’ struggling U.S. operations. Since being appointed as the Chief Operating Officer of the Americas last October, he has cut down on excess inventories, reorganized top leadership, and engaged with dealers and unions. Executive Chairman John Elkann, who has led an interim committee since Traves’ exit, emphasized Filosa’s deep understanding of the company, stating that his leadership qualities are well-suited to guide Stellantis through this transitional phase. “I am grateful for the confidence placed in me. We have the world’s most iconic automotive brands and a century-long legacy of innovation. I’m committed to building on that foundation.” - Antonio Filosa The stakes are also now higher than ever. President Trump’s introduction of tariffs in the U.S. Trade policy brings fresh volatility into the industry, along with margin pressures in Europe as Chinese automakers continue to gain ground. Filosa’s immediate priorities will be to further stabilize the North American business by moving some production back to the United States, introducing competitive pricing strategies, and a fresh vehicle lineup across the brand’s core markets. While GM and Ford have made significant investments in electric vehicles, a pivot towards Stellantis serving up a growing demand for hybrid models to cater to consumers not yet ready for electrification, across its 14 brands, would be ideal. An Extraordinary Shareholder Meeting will be convened in the coming days to formalize Filosa’s election to the board, and the industry will be keen to see how Filosa steers the company back to profitability in the evolving automotive landscape. " width="680"> Source: Stellantis

By Khris Bharath – May 27, 2025

2025 Broad Arrow Auctions Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Est...

In its inaugural appearance as the official auction partner at the annual Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este hosted by BMW Classic Group, Broad Arrow delivered a masterclass in curating, staging, and selling a diverse range of collector-grade cars and automobilia. Hosted inside the grand Rotunda at Villa Erba on May 25-26, the two-day auction held on the banks of Lake Como saw bidding from in-person attendees and over 8,000 viewers online, bringing in €31 million ($35.23 million) in total sales, with a sell-through rate of 78% across all lots sold. At the top three on the leaderboard: a 1948 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa by Ansaloni (Lot 214), which is steeped in motorsport pedigree with successful runs at the Targa Florio and Mille Miglia, saw the hammer drop at €7.54 million ($8.57 million), taking the crown as the weekend’s most expensive sale. This was followed up by a stunning pre-war beauty with provenance, a 1938 Talbot-Lago T150 Spéciale Teadrop Coupé (Lot 237). This Art Deco beauty was arguably one of the most elegant cars in the room and crossed the auction block at €3.61 million ($4.1 million). Third place went to a 1989 Ferrari F40 ‘Competizione’ (Lot 212) that drew in €2.31 million (2.63 million). Clad in racing slicks, the car that took inspiration from the Michelotto F40 LM race cars, and this example is one of an estimated 27 produced. Beyond the auction, the weekend also saw several concepts and coach-built cars make their world debut at this year’s Concorso d’Eleganza. BMW revealed the Speedtop Shooting Brake, a sleek coupe meets wagon, alongside the long-awaited M2 CS. The Concept RR gave us a glimpse of the next generation of supersport tech from BMW Motorrad. Milanese coach-builder Zagato is no stranger to the lawns of Villa d’Este, and this year was no exception. They took the wraps off two of their latest collaborations, the Bovensiepen Coupe, which is based on the M4 convertible, and the 1-of-1 Alfa Romeo Doppiacoda, which showcases some legacy Zagato design cues in the modern era. Below are the top 10 results from the 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este auction by value. Check out the final results here. View All Broad Arrow's Inventory 10. 1980 BMW M1 €602,500 (~$683,100) 9. 2023 Ford GT €613,750 (~$695,860) 8. 2003 Honda NSX-R €934,375 (~$1,059,790) 7. 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster €1,007,500 (~$1,142,290) 6. 2006 Porsche Carrera GT Sold Ahead of Auction 5. 1965 Ferrari 275 GTS €1,525,000 (~$1,729,025) 4. 1954 Siata 208S Motto Spider €1,750,000 (~$1,984,126) 3. 1989 Ferrari F40 "Competizione" €2,312,500 (~$2,621,882) 2. 1938 Talbot-Lago T150 C Lago Spéciale Teardrop Coupé €3,606,250 (~$3,088,718) 1. 1948 Ferrari 166 Spyder Corsa by Ansaloni €7,543,750 (~$8,553,005) Source: Broad Arrow Auctions

Three red Ferrari race cars, including Best of Show Winners from the Cavallino Classic Modena 2025, are parked on a stone driveway in front of a house in daylight.

By Charles Bradley – May 27, 2025

Cavallino Classic Modena 2025 Sets New Standard with Best...

The fifth edition of Cavallino Classic Modena, held from May 16–18 at the refined Casa Maria Luigia estate of chef Massimo Bottura, concluded with a trio of spectacular Best of Show winners and a record-setting showcase of Ferrari excellence. Among the pristine lineup, the 1954 Ferrari 250 Monza #0442M, an icon of the Carrera Panamericana era, took Best of Show Competition, while the 1960 Ferrari 250 GT Pinin Farina Cabriolet #2381, in Abete Metallizzato with beige leather, earned Best of Show Gran Turismo. Completing the trifecta, the 1966 275 GTB4 “long nose” #09021, originally shown at the Paris Motor Show, claimed Best of Show Ferrari Classiche Certified. Set against the rolling hills near Modena, Cavallino Classic once again fused elegance, authenticity, and Italian passion in a setting befitting the Prancing Horse’s birthplace. Ferrari royalty, including Piero Ferrari and Enzo Mattioli Ferrari, joined an exclusive, invitation-only audience for a weekend that blended concours excellence with culinary and cultural flair. Chairman Luigi Orlandini praised the event’s growth, citing “a rigorously selected roster of world-class cars, a knowledgeable international audience, and an atmosphere that can only be found in Modena.” The estate hosted guests with Bottura’s signature hospitality, from a welcome dinner and live retro music on Friday to Saturday’s concours judging, complete with immersive culinary experiences and sensory delights. Sunday’s grand finale included a parade through Modena’s streets, a stop at the Museo Enzo Ferrari, and a gala dinner at Osteria Francescana, Bottura’s three-Michelin-starred jewel. A record 26 Platinum Awards were presented, underscoring the exceptional quality of the field. With presenting sponsor RM Sotheby’s, alongside Riva, Bang & Olufsen, Moët & Chandon, and the Azimut Automobile Heritage Fund, Cavallino Classic Modena 2025 proved once more why it is the gold standard for Ferrari concours in Europe – a celebration where passion, provenance, and lifestyle converge in perfect harmony.

A yellow sports car with black accents, photographed in a dark studio setting with accent lighting highlighting its sleek design—Italy’s Latest V12 Supercar redefines luxury and performance.

By Khris Bharath – May 23, 2025

Italy’s Latest V12 Supercar Packs Quad Turbos 2,127 HP A ...

Let’s face it. Gone are the days when hybrids are considered uncool. Today, you’ve got hybrid tech in everything from grand-prix race cars to some of the fastest supercars and hypercars in the world. But for a rebellious few out there, who were never onboard with the idea of adding complexity and felt that much (not all) of the supercar industry had lost the plot somewhere, Italy’s motor valley has once again delivered something with nothing but the basics. No electrification here: a mid-engine V12, manual transmission, and rear wheel drive. Meet the Giamaro Katla. Conceived by a father-son duo: Giacomo and Pierfrancesco Commendatore, in Modena, Italy’s latest supercar really is the stuff of dreams in the modern age. You’ve got all the hallmarks of an Italian exotic: timeless low-slung mid-ship style, gull-wing doors, sleek LED DRLs, aero elements like a massive diffuser and deployable rear wing, that doubles as an air brake. Combine that with an aviation-inspired cockpit, featuring carbon-fiber, milled aluminium, and digital displays, and you have a comprehensive package. But by far, the showstopper of the Giamaro Katla is what’s under the skin. An all-aluminium 7.0-liter V12 with a 120-degree Hot-Vee layout that " title="YouTube video" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen> and houses four turbochargers between the banks. Developed in-house, it features gear-driven cams and dry sump lubrication. Each turbo feeds three cylinders, which should provide blistering throttle response. Total power output: 2,127 horsepower and 1,481 pound-feet of torque, all of which are sent to the rear wheels through a 7-speed manual transmission. But depending on which one of the three keys you have in the ignition, the power output ranges from 800 horsepower, 1647 horsepower, or the full-sen 2,127 horsepower. The chassis is a featherweight carbon-fiber monocoque with the car's total curb weight at just shy of 3,200 pounds, and a 42:52 weight distribution. In a Motor1 exclusive, founder Giacomo Commendatore said, “We tried to give our car a specific identity, and create a deep connection between driver and machine.” Son Pierfrancesco, added. “Emotion is the key to it all.” Giamaro Automobili has some of the most influential personalities from the Italian supercar scene working on the Giamaro Katla project. Loris Bicocchi, an engineer who has previously worked on world-famous models like the Countach, Diablo, the Zonda, and Veyron, is playing a key role in everything from fine-tuning the Katla’s double-wishbone CNC-milled suspension to testing the prototype with the optional 11-speed dual-clutch transmission. In an era of hybridization and electrification, the Katla is one of the few outliers to defy electrification. No word on pricing yet, but given the growing appetite amongst enthusiasts and collectors for analog manual V12 exotics, a market with enough demand certainly exists. The boutique automaker plans to build 30 units per year at its upcoming facility in Astel Franco Emilia. The Katla will be followed up by a high-riding two-door model dubbed the Albor. View Supercars And Exotics For Sale " width="680"> Source: Giamaro Automobili

A blue modern sports sedan, inspired by the Four-Door Dodge Charger Daytona, with a sleek design is parked in front of a textured, yellow-painted brick wall—there's more to this muscle car sedan than meets the eye.

By Khris Bharath – May 22, 2025

Dodge Charger Daytona Sedan Is Here And There's More To T...

Dodge has officially pulled the wraps off the 2026 Charger Daytona Scat Pack sedan: the four-door variant of the all-electric Charger Daytona coupe that we first saw in March 2024, during a global debut led by then-CEO Tim Kuniskis. Built upon Stellantis’ STLA Large multi-energy platform, this is the world’s only four-door muscle car on sale today, and is the pivot that Dodge needed post the lukewarm response from its coupe counterpart. The addition of the four-door model to the 2026 lineup should broaden the Charger’s appeal with added practicality. Key figures: It features the same dual-motor all-wheel drive setup as the coupe, delivering a massive 670 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. Engage the Powershot button, and you get an additional 40 horsepower boost for 10 seconds, enough to rocket the 5,800+ pound electrified sedan to 60 mph in just 3.3 seconds. With Hellcat Redeye levels of performance, Dodge claims that it’ll run the quarter mile in 11.5 seconds, and remains the world’s quickest and most powerful muscle car. Choose from a variety of drive modes, including sport, track, drag, and custom. Additionally, you also get drift/donut mode, launch control, and race-prep options. As for the EV bits, you have a maximum range of 241 miles and the ability to replenish the battery from 20-80% on a Level 3 charger. A Level 1/2 combo charger for 120V and 240V outlets comes as standard. Beyond the mega performance numbers, there’s ample room for both passengers and cargo, all wrapped in the same aggressive widebody design (widest in the industry according to Dodge) as the coupe with its classic muscle car proportions. Sharing the same roofline, front and rear facias, and liftgate, the dimensions and wheelbase of the four-door Charger Daytona are pretty much identical to the coupe, but you get those two extra doors that improve usability, along with a cleverly packaged “hidden-hatch” that boasts a best-in-class 38.5 cubic feet of cargo room. For some context, that is 133% more than the outgoing Charger. The four-door Daytona is also loaded with a long list of standard features that includes a 16-inch digital gauge cluster, a 12.3-inch center touchscreen, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a nine-speaker Alpine audio system, dual-zone climate control, and Keyless Go with push-button start. Convenience features include Lane-keeping assistant, traffic-sign recognition, and automatic high-beams. A nod to the Hemi V8 growl of old-school Mopars, Dodge’s simulated Fratzonic chambered exhaust is also standard. Want more? Opt for the Track Pack and you get red Brembo brake calipers, dual-valve adaptive suspension, along with larger 20-inch wheels and all-season tires, and a gloss black spoiler. Inside, you get fixed-headrest leather performance seats and a drive experience recorder (DxR) as upgrades. Additional options include a panoramic glass roof, 18-speaker Alpine Pro audio, carbon-fiber interior trim, premium LED lighting, and a power hatch. The order book is now open, and while pricing for the Scat Pack hasn’t been announced yet, expect it to be in the same ballpark as the coupe, landing anywhere between $60,000-$70,000, but the rebates and incentives should help. As for the entry-level R/T trim, that will have to wait until 2026, but more crucially for Mopar fans and enthusiasts, Dodge thankfully hasn’t turned its back on the gasoline power and Charger SixPack variants, with the Hurricane twin-turbo 3.0-liter in-line six will arrive in the second half of 2025. Beyond the consumer market, the four-door Charger has also served as the backbone of law enforcement for decades, and while it is still too early to speculate, could a purpose-built ‘Pursuit’ version become a reality? The all-new Charger Daytona could certainly pave the way for next-generation vehicles and continue its legacy as a staple in American police fleets. Watch this space. View All Dodge Chargers For Sale Source: Dodge,Stellantis

By Khris Bharath – May 20, 2025

One Thing That Makes This Carbon-Fiber Tent A Game Change...

At the 2025 Overland Expo West, in Flagstaff, Arizona, Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) took the wraps off a unique Awning and Rooftop Tent (ARTT) concept. A sleek, all-in-one overlanding solution, developed in partnership with outdoor gear specialist, Dometic. Making its debut on the Jeep Wrangler 4xe Sunchaser, which is one of the concepts unveiled at the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah back in April, the ARTT system reimagines rooftop camping. Instead of a bulky setup bolted onto a traditional roof rack, ARTT features a lightweight carbon-fiber shell that easily mounts directly onto the Wrangler’s roof. Owing to its low-profile shape, not only is it more aerodynamic with lower wind resistance, but it also skips the need for any additional hardware, shaving precious pounds and saving weight. Neatly tucked away inside the shell is a rooftop tent that makes use of Dometic’s AIR Frame inflation tech, making it a breeze to deploy and providing enough room for a queen-size mattress. An awning that swings out 270 degrees provides ample cover for when you’re out and about in the elements. Speaking of the elements, if you’ve never been a fan of an external ladder (you still have that option here), Jeep has engineered a workaround: remove the Wrangler’s Freedom Panels, and you can crawl up into the tent right from within the cabin, with the help of a carbon-fiber step that sits over the center-console. Jeep is showcasing this concept on the highly modified Wrangler Sunchaser concept, which by itself packs a whole host of serious trail-focused hardware. Finished in a vibrant two-tone color scheme of Solar Flash and Satin Black, the electrified off-roader features upgrades, ranging from a 2.0-inch lift kit, vented high-top steel fender, and 37-inch BF Goodrich KM3 mudtrttain tires to side storage boxes, a heavy-duty winch, rock rails for body protection and a cabin that combines utility with premium touches. The ARTT concept was conceived from the Star Up intrapreneurship program, a space where Stellantis employees push new ideas from sketch to prototype. While it remains a concept for now, its production-ready design may suggest that it likely isn’t too far away from hitting dealerships. Having said that, such innovative solutions do show the Jeep brand’s continued commitment to the overlanding faithful. View All Jeep Wranglers For Sale Easter Jeep Safari Concepts, April 2025 Source: Jeep, Stellantis

Close-up of a Lexus F Sport engine, with an inset image showing the front wheel and side view of a white Lexus sports car—showcasing the Ultimate Edition: Last-Surviving V8 Compact Luxury Sedan updated for 2025.

By Khris Bharath – May 20, 2025

Ultimate Edition: Last-Surviving V8 Compact Luxury Sedan ...

When it comes to luxury sedans, the V8 isn’t dead just yet, at least not at Lexus. While most of the competition has turned the page on this enthusiast favorite format, Lexus has diligently hung on to this tried and tested V8 rear-wheel drive formula with the Lexus IS, and to celebrate what could be its final iteration (we hope not), the Japanese luxury automaker has announced the 2025 Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edtition. Limited to just 500 examples for North America, this special edition comes with some exclusive cosmetic and performance upgrades over the standard model. 2025 Lexus IS 500 Ultimate Edition The exterior has been finished in a freshly introduced F-SPORT-exclusive color called Wind, which is a slick light gray metallic shade that contrasts against light-weight 19-inch forged BBS matte black wheels. One of the most significant performance upgrades is to the brakes, with stopping power coming from six-piston Brembo brake callipers paired with 380 mm vented discs. Inside, the cabin gets some sporty touches in the form of circuit red and black trim, red seatbelts, NuLuxe and Ultrasuede seats, and a dimple-textured leather steering wheel, inspired by the V10-powered LFA supercar. You also get laser-etched red details in the analog clock, and a serialized console badge conveys this car’s significance. On the tech front, you get an Ultimate Edition-exclusive startup animation every time you fire up that V8. Speaking of the engine, under the hood, you still get the snarly naturally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8 that puts out 472 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque, with power going exclusively to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Beyond its big power, you also get a whole host of safety equipment, part of Lexus’ Safety System 2.5+, that includes everything from adaptive cruise control, roadside recognition, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and automatic high-beams. Set to go on sale this fall, there’s no word on pricing just yet, but expect this limited-run model to cost more than the IS 500 F Sport Performance, which currently retails for $65,095. So there you have it, a quick update on the Lexus IS, a compact sedan that first launched nearly 25 years ago as an alternative to the Germans. The IS 500 has held on to the muscle car recipe with its V8 rear-wheel drive formula, and while a stick has never been offered, it could have made a perfect swan song on this Ultimate Edition, if this is indeed the end of the line. View All Lexus IS 500s For Sale

A red Ferrari Purosangue sports car features body panels floating apart, showcasing RNG Design’s Limited-Run Body Kit for a bespoke makeover in a modern studio with “RNG DESIGN” on the wall behind it.

By Khris Bharath – May 16, 2025

How RNG Design's Limited-Run Body Kit Seamlessly Integrat...

When Ferrari unveiled the Purosangue, the Italian brand set out to rewrite its own rulebook, and while the stock car is already striking to look at out of the box, for folks who wish to stand out, there’s no shortage of options in the aftermarket. The latest to join in on the action is Germany-based RNG Renegade Design, who make body kits for several top-tier manufacturers from Rolls-Royce to Lamborghini and more. This kit gives Ferrari’s V12-powered FUV a subtle yet functional makeover. At the core of this transformation are 30 high-quality carbon-fiber parts that make up the basic kit from RNG design, each functional and visually striking to look at and tailored to the vehicle without requiring cutting or drilling. These components are designed to fit Ferrari’s original mounting points, preserving both value and originality. The front splitter and side skirts are sculpted to improve airflow and reduce lift. The rear diffuser boosts downforce and is available in two flavors: one that accommodates Ferrari’s standard quad exhaust setup, while the other reconfigures the Pursangue with a central tailpipe layout and RNG’s own plug-and–play exhaust system. Visually, the wider fender flares from the kit give the Pursangue a more planted stance. Beyond the base kit from Renegade Design, optional carbon components like a vented hood, front bumper, and fender inserts, door covers, roof spoiler, tailgate trim, and roof spoiler are available for even more drama. There are five carbon fiber finishes to choose from, including OEM-spec Ferrari carbon, bold Forged Carbon, and stealthy matte finishes. The optional forged aluminium wheels available between 20-24 inches and five exclusive designs weigh just under 25 pounds each. With integrated carbon AeroDiscs, these lightweight wheels are engineered for both form and function and help in reducing unsprung mass and improving high-speed stability. The basic kit is priced from $47,000 before shipping, and the first 25 customers will receive an exclusive limited edition series along with a special accessories package. View All Ferrari Pursangues For Sale " width="680"> Image Source: Renegade Design

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