Tuesday, August 31, 2021

Forza Horizon 5: All 143 Cars Confirmed!

 


The long awaited Forza Horizon 5 is almost here, and the complete list of all the featured vehicles have been released, and there are some pretty epic cars on the list. On November 9th, Horizon 5 will be released to the Xbox community, but why not get ahead of ourselves and look at all the insane cars that will be on the game? Interestingly enough, there are no less than 48 Fords, including 2 Transit vans, of all things. Mercedes-Benz also occupies a large space, with 20 of their models, including the legendary 300SL coupe.  Without further ado, here it goes:

----------------------------

Interesting

Legendary

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2020 Toyota Supra GR

2017 Ford #14 Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing GRC Fiesta

2019 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X GSR

1991 Hoonigan Ford Escort Cossie V2

2021 Sierra Cars RX3

2019 Porsche Taycan Turbo S

2021 Ford Super Duty F-450 DRW PLATINUM

2018 Porsche LPRacing Baja Macan

1967 Ford Mk 1 Escort

2021 Ford Bronco Badlands

2020 Ford Performance #2069 Bronco R

2020 Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray - Streethunter Widebody Kit

1985 Porsche #65 911 Desert Flyer

2021 Mercedes-AMG ONE

1933 Napier Napier-Railton

2019 Mclaren Speedtail

1991 Jaguar XJR-15

1970 Porsche 914/6

2015 Land Rover Range Rover Sport SVR

1973 Ford Escort RS1600

1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS

2009 Honda S2000 CR

1968 Ford Mustang GT 2+2 Fastback

2017 Maserati Levante S

2021 Mercedes-AMG ONE Forza Edition

2014 Lamborghini Huracan LP 610-4

1998 Toyota Supra RZ

2014 Morgan 3-Wheeler

2018 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 1LE

2014 Volkswagen Golf R

2017 Ford GT

1993 Jaguar XJ220

1994 Ferrari F355 Berlinetta

2016 Dodge Viper ACR

2013 Subaru BRZ

1967 Lamborghini Miura P400

1974 Lancia Stratos HF Stradale

2011 Penhall The Cholla

2019 Porsche 911 (992) Carrera S

2014 BAC Mono

2019 Ferrari 488 Pista

2013 Caterham Superlight R500

2016 Jaguar F-Type Project 7

2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS

2015 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28

2016 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

2016 Porsche Cayman GT4

2020 Koenigsegg Jesko

2010 Pagani Zonda R

2019 Zenvo TSR-S

2008 Maserati MC12 Versione Corsa

2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

2015 Subaru WRX STI

2011 Subaru WRX STI

2006 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX MR

2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VIII MR

1932 Ford De Luxe Five-Window Coupe Forza Edition

2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STi

2005 Vauxhall Monaro VXR

1998 Subaru Impreza 22B STi

2020 Land Rover Defender 110 Ford Ultra4 Fun-Haver

#25 4400 Bronco

2019 Hennessey VelociRaptor 6x6

2016 Ariel Nomad

2018 Funco Motorsports F9

2016 RJ Anderson 37 Polaris RZR-Rockstar Energy Pro 2 Truck

2018 Mclaren Senna

2014 Local Motors Rally Fighter

2012 Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor

2015 Alumi Craft Class 10 Race Car

2019 Mclaren 720S Spider

2018 Mercedes-AMG GT4-Door Coupe

2019 Rimac Concept_Two (Nevera)

2004 Saleen S7

2018 Apollo Intensa Emozione

2019 Hyundai Veloster N

2014 Mercedes-Benz Unimog U5023

1986 Porsche 185 959 Prodrive Rally Raid

2017 Ford F-150 Raptor

2018 Can-Am Maverick X RS Turbo R

2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

2018 Mclaren 720S

2015 Polaris RZR XP 1000 EPS

1932 Ford De Luxe Five-Window Coupe

2016 Pagani Huayra BC

1994 Ford Supervan 3

1975 Ford Bronco

2014 Ford #11 Rockstar F-150 Trophy Truck

2018 Ford #25 Mustang RTR

2018 Ford #88 Mustang RTR

1959 Ford Anglia 105E

1973 Ford Capri RS3100

2010 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor

1992 Ford Escort RS Cosworth

1977 Ford Escort RS1800

1956 Ford F-100

2011 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

2015 Ford Falcon GT F 351

1972 Ford Falcon XA GT-HO

2014 Ford Fiesta ST

1981 Ford Fiesta XR2

2003 Ford Focus RS

2009 Ford Focus RS

2017 Ford Focus RS

2014 Ford FPV Limited Edition Pursuit UTE

2005 Ford GT

1964 Ford GT40 MK1

1970 Ford GT70

1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302

2018 Ford Mustang GT

1965 Ford Mustang GT Coupe

2018 Ford Mustang RTR Spec-5

2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

1999 Ford Racing Puma

2014 Ford Ranger T6 Rally Raid

1985 Ford RS200 Evolution

2016 Ford Shelby GT350R

2013 Ford Shelby GT500

1987 Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500

1993 Ford SVT Cobra R

2000 Ford SVT Cobra R

1965 Ford Transit

2011 Ford Transit SuperSportVan

2015 Mercedes-Benz

#24 Tankpool24 Racing Truck

1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evo II

1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Coupe

2013 Mercedes-Benz A 45 AMG

1998 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLK-GTR

1987 Mercedes-Benz AMG Hammer Coupe

2012 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe Black Series

2013 Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG

2014 Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6X6

2013 Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG

2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

1929 Mercedes-Benz SSK

1939 Mercedes-Benz W154

2018 Mercedes-Benz X-Class

2016 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupe

2018 Mercedes-AMG E 63 S

2017 Mercedes-AMG GT R


Would You Rather Car Edition!

 HONDA CIVIC TYPE-R / ACURA INTEGRA












DODGE CHALLENGER / FORD MUSTANG










TESLA MODEL 3 / PORSCHE 911 CARERRA









FERRARI 488 / MCLAREN 720S










LAMBORGHINI HURACAN / CHEVY CORVETTE










FERRARI F40 / FERRARI F50













MERCEDES G-CLASS / BENTLEY BENTAYGA
























My Picks:
Integra, Challenger, 911, 720s, Huracan, F40, Bentayga

Thursday, August 26, 2021

Hyundai Kona N First Look: Refreshingly N-Tertaining!

 



Recently, Hyundai have been killing it with their cars, trucks, and even a truck. It just seems that everything they touch turns to gold, as evidenced by the incredible Veloster N, Sonata, and Tucson. The Korean brand hopes their success extends to their latest vehicle, the Kona N. The 2022 Kona N joins the Veloster and Elantra as cars that have been given a performance-focused "N" variant. The sporty hatchback boasts a highly impressive 286 horsepower, coming from a rowdy turbo 2.0L Inline-4 engine. While the exterior design is by no means universally praised, it looks good enough, all things considered, and its vibrant appearance matches its exuberant ride. 


Put pedal to the metal, and a burst of power will propel the Kona forward, with the same energy that has made the Hyundai Veloster N as popular as it is. Although the Kona is taller than the Veloster, its handling does not seem to be affected in any notable way. And that is a big deal for many customers, who would like something sporty, but with decent practicality. Even if the Kona N isn't as hardcore as a Honda Civic Type-R or Subaru WRX STi, you could argue that it's better for its approachability. It can be a speed demon when you want it to be, and it also can be a world-class daily driver. Even if you don't dig the way it looks, Hyundai have made something special, and I would advise you don't pass it by. 

Pictures courtesy of Car&Driver.

Thursday, August 19, 2021

Nissan Z First Look: Rebirth Of An Icon

 


More than 10 years after the original 240Z debuted, Nissan has finally revealed a replacement. And, to be completely honest, it looks more interesting than anything that the Japanese brand has shown us in ages. Changing things up on the previous generation, the new Z debuts with a 3.0 L Twin Turbo V6 that packs a cool 400 hp. However, the FMA chassis that the new Z rides on isn't new, as it traces back to 2002. Back to the engine: Nissan frugally borrows an engine from its corporate sister, the Infiniti Q60. The Z uses a 9-speed automatic transmission, though a 6-speed is also optional. 

Every good sports car needs two things to be successful: a good engine, and good styling. Fortunately, the Z excels in both of those areas. Let's not beat around the bush: the Z is one of the most beautiful sports cars in recent memory. If you have ever seen a 240Z, you can see how well done Nissan modernized the Z. It just looks fantastic, especially with those awesome headlights. There have been some really tragic incidents when one car either looked really good, but didn't have a good engine, or vice versa. Examples include: Honda Civic Type-R, McLaren Senna, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, BMW M3. Thankfully the Nissan Z avoids that trap. All things considered, the new Z is a very exciting car for the enthusiast community, and, hopefully, will reignite something inside a brand that has been struggling recently. Stay tuned for more on the Z, and all the news coming from the car world. 


Tuesday, August 17, 2021

Jeep Grand Wagoneer Review: Old-School Done Right

 

It's been a minute since Jeep sold a 3-row SUV. More like 32 years, to be precise. Back then, the doors were plated with spruce wood, and power windows were a novel invention. Now, Jeep is attempting to revive the legendary nameplate, but now with a focus on luxury, not necessarily a main-stream product. Coming out of the gates, it looks like it is priced to compete with the likes of the Land Rover Range Rover, Lincoln Aviator, BMW X7, and the Cadillac Escalade. The starting price for the Grand Wagoneer is $88,995, and the top model commands a hefty $110,775. Although that seems like a lot, it is a relatively reasonable asking price for a luxurious 3-row SUV, considering that many of its rivals (Range Rover starts at $92K) are within the same space. But, you might be thinking, is the Grand Wagoneer even comparable to the Rover, or other rivals? 

Ride & Handling: 4/10

This Jeep, as it should be, is extremely capable off the pavement. However, sadly, its miserable ride on-road is just as expected, as the majority of modern Jeep products are squarely criticized for their sub-par on-road ride. The Grand Wagoneer's ride is just unacceptable, especially given how good its competitors are in this aspect. Drive a Range Rover or BMW X7, and you will be wowed by their stellar drive. Even though Jeep struggles in this area, it is by no means a death sentence. 

Build Quality: 10/10

Many things have been criticized by Jeep products over the years, but build quality is a subject that is never touched on, and for good reason: Jeeps are built like tanks. The Grand Wagoneer is no exception, and it might even be tougher than most Jeeps. You can drive it through a forest and come out unscathed. If you want a car that can withstand anything, and only looks better with every scratch, the Grand Wagoneer is a good choice. 

Luxury: 10/10

Easily the strongest aspect of the Grand Wagoneer is its interior. It is wonderfully designed, with stunning wood trim, and arguably one of the better infotainment systems in the class. The seats, though are without competition, as they are easily the best in the segment. 

Value: 6/10

Starting at roughly $89K, and going all the way to $111K, the Grand Wagoneer is definitely one of the more pricy options in the segment. However, I would argue that it is at least mostly worth it. Heck, it's a huge SUV with world-class luxury and unrivaled build quality. I personally would spend my money elsewhere, but the Jeep is by no means an unimpressive effort. 

Overall Rating: 7.5/10

Monday, August 16, 2021

Man Caught Sleeping In Tesla, Self-Driving At 93 mph



  In an alarming report, a 21-yr old guy was charged after he was busted for napping at the wheel in his Tesla. Using autopilot, he was cruising at 93 mph in Alberta, Canada, when he was pulled over by the local police. He was driving a 2019 Model S. The incident was reported by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Department. The police confirmed that both the driver and passenger were both asleep, with their seats reclined. As the cops attempted to pull the car over, the electric sedan began to automatically increases in speed to around 95 mph. Eventually, the Model S was pulled over, and the driver was charged. This is only the latest story that raises questions about Tesla's autopilot technology. Elon Musk's EV company has also been under fire for it's cars repeatedly crashing into emergency vehicles. If Musk cannot address these increasingly frequent  events, it will likely give opponents an opportunity to close the gap between companies like GM, Nissan, and Porsche, and the clear leader in the EV space, Tesla. Stay tuned for the latest on Tesla autopilot, and all the big stories in the car world. 



Sunday, August 15, 2021

BREAKING: Acura Integra To Return In 2022!

 


Oh boy. It's been an eventful couple of days for the car industry. Right after the earth-shattering news that the Lamborghini Countach was returning as a hybrid, Acura revealed that they were electrifying a legend of their own, the iconic Integra coupe. Based on the few glimpses of the upcoming car, it will likely pay homage to the 2004 model, sporting 2 LED lights on each side of the grille, and the grille itself may not actually cool the engine, as it will almost certainly be either fully electric or even a hybrid. Although the closeup image that was released doesn't show much, I will say I am feeling good about this one. A massive Integra fan myself, I think the new model will live up to it's predecessor quite nicely.    

   Some context: from 1986 to 2002, the Acura (or Honda, as it was badged in other countries) Integra established itself as one of the most fun cars at it's price point. The first generation (1986-1990) didn't attract much attention, and subsequently only had a 4-year run. However, it was an interesting car in many ways. It was offered in 3,4, and 5-door forms. It boasted a feisty 1.6L 4-Cylinder engine, and maxed out at an impressive 7000 rpm. Although the first generation isn't the one that people talk about these days, it was a decent car, and led to much greater things, namely the second gen. 

Oh yes, the second gen. The GOAT of small and fun coupes. The "fan favorite" as it were. A car that makes you long for the days when cars were simpler. The Acura Integra, during it's golden years (Late 90's, early 2000's, ) established itself as one of the most memorable cars made during that time period. Although it is by no means flashy or exotic, it is undeniably one of the most special cars ever made, and prices have risen accordingly. Even though the upcoming Integra will not be the same, Honda has been on a roll during the last 5 or so years, and it would be surprising if the Honda/Acura brand doesn't succeed on the new Integra. Stay tuned for news on the upcoming Acura Integra, and everything happening in the car world.



Wednesday, August 11, 2021

BREAKING: Lamborghini Countach To Return, Likely As Hybrid

 


I
n arguably the biggest auto news of 2021 so far, Lamborghini has confirmed, albeit after several photos were leaked on Instagram. Reports suggest that it will be a hybrid, and will be produced in low numbers. The picture above is a rendering by ARC Design, and is based on a picture in which the new Countach is hidden by a cover. Assuming the rendering is more or less accurate, the new Countach will look absolutely fantastic. Effectively replacing the Aventador supercar, the new addition to the lineup will likely be similar to the Sian hybrid that was unveiled last year, in that they both will be powered by a 600-ish horsepower V8, while electric motors will add roughly 200 more horses. The full name will be the Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4, and the "800" hints at the new supercar churning out 800 hp. Although not much is known at this point, Lamborghini plans to take the wraps off the Countach at this week's Monterey Auto Show. Stay tuned for more updates on the Countach, along with all the other trending auto news.



Monday, August 9, 2021

Tesla Cybertruck Delayed, To Nobody's Surprise

 


In a move that many anticipated, the massively hyped-up Tesla Cybertruck has been delayed until 2022. Elon Musk confirmed the setback on the Tesla website, saying that "Prototypes are easy, production is hard". HE went on: "I think Cyberrtruck ramp will be difficult it's such new architecture. I mean it's going to be a great product. It might, I think, be our best product ever. But there's a lot of fundamentally new design ideas in the Cybertuck". Just looking at the truck, it's clear that building it has, as Musk puts it, a lot of "Unexplored territory. Stay tuned for more on the Cybertruck, and all things cars.





Saturday, August 7, 2021

All The Answers To The EV Questions Everyone Wants To Know


Why do EVs Matter?

Although there are some issues to be addressed about EVs in general, there is increasing certainty that electric cars will be the norm in the near future. Change is inevitable. When the first car was made (the Benz Patent-Wagon) many complained that it wasn't as reliable as a team of horses. While they weren't necessarily wrong, the car gained popularity (and practicality) anyways. While we may prefer a gas-powered car now, there have already been some outstanding electric cars, proving the future is not as dark as many paint it to be. 

Are EVs actually better for the environment?

Yes and no. EV batteries are extremely energy-intensive to produce. Even though EVs don't emit greenhouse gases, the electricity their batteries use do. However, their emission "deficit" is eventually reversed once the EV accumulates 30K or so miles on the odometer. So while EVs aren't perfect, they are considerably better than a gas-guzzler on the basis of emissions.

How much range can an EV do?

Apart from a couple underachievers (Nissan Leaf, Mini EV, Polestar 2), the majority of electric vehicles can go from the high 200's to the mid-300 miles. As you would expect, Teslas dominate the top end of the spectrum, with the Model 3, S, and Y all placing in the top 5. The Model 3 LR holds the #1 spot, and can do 345 miles. For comparison, a similarly priced and sized gas-powered BMW 3-Series can go roughly 395 miles.

OK, but aren't EVs expensive?

Depends. You can currently get a decent EV for under $40K, (Tesla Model 3, Kia Niro, Hyundai Ioniq, Chevy Bolt), but prices on the Model 3 are rising, and, to be honest, it is the only one of the 4 that is truly impressive. Having said that, brands are really focusing on electric cars at the moment, and there will be shortage pf options in only 2 or 3 years. Also, there is plenty of really world-class EVs once you get into the $40K+ range. Want a really cool sporty SUV? The Ford Mustang Mach-E is terrific. Want a mind-bogglingly quick sport sedan? The Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S are great options. Moving forward, there will be great electric cars at every price point, but we admittedly aren't there yet.

Do EV Batteries degrade over time?

Yes, but there are several methods to prevent this from happening. One is charging your battery only 80-90%, instead of the full way. Another is avoiding driving your car till it is practically out of juice. GM claims it has discovered a way to combat this from occurring, and says it will implement it's new tech on upcoming vehicles.

Do EVs hold their worth?

Simple answer: Teslas do, others don't, at least most of the time. 

Can I Get Tax Credit On My EV Purchase?

Ranging from $2.5K to $7.5K, the government gives new-EV buyers a one-time break on their purchase, unless your taxes don't exceed the amount your car qualifies for. Also, once an automaker sells 200K EVs, (Currently only GM and Tesla) the tax incentive enters a 1 year phaseout period, and the tax credit becomes on hold until the end of the year. 

Should I Wait To Buy An EV?

Probably. Unless you can afford to splash over $40K, there really isn't a very strong field of "normal" cars out there that are also electric. There are a couple of exceptions, but I would gladly take any of the amazing vehicles coming out of South Korea right now, where Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis are doing some really special things. 



Acura NSX Type-S: Going Out With A Bang

 


Underappreciated, overlooked, and really, really good, the Acura NSX is on its way out. After debuting at the Detroit Auto Show in 2015, the NSX has received very little attention, mostly due to Ford releasing a new GT at the same time. Despite being one of the most well-done entry-level supercars over the last half-decade, the Acura NSX has sold very slowly, and is now being axed from the lineup, but not before a flashy "Sayonara" party. A Type-S variant is on the way, using a moniker that was previously attached to the 1990 NSX. Although it likely won't be radically different from the regular NSX, it will almost certainly have more powerful electric motors, along with some aesthetic distinctions, such as red trim, a higher spoiler, and sportier bucket seats. Only 350 will be made, 30 of which will be for the home market of Japan. Stay tuned to MTT for more news about the NSX Type-S, and other news.

Friday, August 6, 2021

Electrified Chevrolet Equinox Leaked In Patent Images

 



In a unexpected turn of events, patent images for a possibly electric variant of the high-selling Equinox were released on August 4th, and it revealed several telling signs. First off, it is pretty certain that the new Equinox will be electric, judging by the lack of a front grille, among other things. Second off, it seems that the B-pillar is more centered, allowing for a front trunk (frunk) that most electric vehicles have. Considering that the Equinox is currently one of the most incompetent crossovers in its class, while competitors such as the Nissan Rogue, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sorento are improving, it seems that a blank slate for the Equinox would make sense. To be honest, it really can't get much worse than the current model. Stay tuned.

AI and Car Design - What Could Go Wrong?

T here's been a considerable amount of talk around some new Artificial Intelligence generators that can take two or more words and mash ...