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- Audi RS5 Driven, Iran Hits Gas Prices, Hellcat Returns
Audi RS5 Driven, Iran Hits Gas Prices, Hellcat Returns
PLUS: Cat Builds a Truck, C63 Bargains, STI Lives On
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2026-03-04
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Releases & Reviews
Audi's reborn RS5 pairs a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V-6 with a plug-in hybrid system to produce a combined 630 hp (470 kW) and 54 miles (87 km) of electric range. The new electromechanical rear differential sharpens handling, but at 5,192 lbs (2,354 kg), it's over 1,000 lbs (454 kg) heavier than its predecessor.
The redesigned Outback Wilderness adds genuine off-road credibility to Subaru's rugged wagon, with improved suspension articulation and standard all-wheel drive tuned for trail use. Car and Driver's instrumented testing reveals a more capable and engaging package than the outgoing model, though it still prioritizes comfort over outright sportiness.
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Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Oil futures surged after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran over the weekend, threatening to end a stretch of sub-$3 national averages. Analysts warn the seasonal switch to summer-blend fuel was already set to push prices higher, and the conflict could accelerate the rise significantly.
The EU is set to unveil local-content rules for its auto industry on Wednesday, aiming to revive domestic manufacturing amid competition from China. The plan has divided member states, with France pushing protectionism while Germany and automakers like Ford and Jaguar Land Rover warn of trade retaliation.
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Car Culture
French toymaker Majorette was producing 1:64-scale diecast cars before Hot Wheels even existed, yet it never gained a foothold in the American market. This deep dive explores how cultural differences, distribution challenges, and Mattel's marketing machine kept Majorette a European favorite but a U.S. afterthought.
SNL's latest satirical ballad takes aim at flush door handles, the increasingly complex design trend that has frustrated drivers and even drawn regulatory scrutiny in China. The sketch proves the complaints have officially crossed over from enthusiast forums into mainstream pop culture.
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Miscellaneous
North American minivan sales surged 20% year-over-year, with nearly every automaker in the segment posting double-digit gains. The rebound is partly driven by practical value and improved features, but also by families being priced out of the three-row SUVs that replaced them.
Inside sources say Dodge has greenlit development of a Hellcat version of the current-generation Charger, potentially arriving as a 2028 model. If confirmed, it would likely sit atop the lineup as the sole V-8 offering above the existing inline-six variants.
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Quick Links
Doug DeMuro delivers his signature deep dive on the 1,250 hp (933 kW) hybrid Corvette, covering everything from its quirky details to its hypercar-rivaling performance.
BMW's factory track kit adds a manually-adjustable front splitter, aero flicks, and upgraded suspension components to keep M2 buyers from shopping aftermarket.
Instagram photos reveal a modernized front fascia for the expected 2027 Pacifica, the minivan's most significant visual update since its 2021 refresh.
A flood of AI-generated images imagining a Cat-branded pickup prompted the heavy equipment maker to build a one-off concept based on a Ford Super Duty.
From Chris Bangle's flame-surfaced BMWs to other once-hated shapes, this retrospective argues that the boldest automotive designers were simply ahead of their time.
Subaru Australia's general manager confirms "a lot of work" is still happening around the STI badge, though no specific production model has been announced.
Expanding the used EV budget from $10K to $15K opens up significantly better options, including newer Chevrolet Bolts and BMW i3s with more range and features.
The controversial four-cylinder C63 has depreciated rapidly, with used examples now available at prices that finally match what many felt the hybrid sedan was actually worth.
Jay Leno examines the sole surviving 1966 Duesenberg Model D prototype, a fascinating failed attempt to revive the legendary pre-war luxury brand.
Ford admits its only regret with the Bronco's manual transmission was not pairing it with the Sasquatch off-road package from day one.
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