The long-running 6.0-liter W12 powertrain will give way to a hybrid V8 in the new Continental.
While some automakers are hanging on to huge, screaming V12s in their upcoming supercars (like Aston Martin and Ferrari), Bentley is bringing in a hybridized, twin-turbocharged version of its 4.0-liter V8 to make this fourth-generation Continental GT the most powerful yet, while also offering some EV-only capability.
In fact, the company announced Thursday that the 2025 Continental GT will pack 771 horsepower under the hood, as well as 737 lb-ft of torque. That is a pretty healthy bump, as the last model maxed out at 650 horsepower and 665 lb-ft of torque. Bentley also says the new Continental GT should manage up to 50 miles on a charge (albeit, using the optimistic WLTP protocol).
This new model will fully debut next month.
Other technical details are thin for the time being. The next-generation Continental GT will still get an all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring as well as rear-wheel steering, an electronic limited-slip differential, 48-volt electric active anti-roll control and new “advanced dual-valve dampers”, the company said in its statement. We don’t yet know how much this new Bentley weighs, which could be a major consideration considering the electric motor and battery pack onboard, or exact performance specs beyond the GT’s power output.
On the styling front, it appears the 2025 Bentley Continental GT will look fairly similar to the outgoing version. It does appear the relatively old-school dual lights at the front are out, though you still get a huge grille, large intakes and wide rear haunches that give the car plenty of presence.
Pricing for this new Continental GT is also a mystery, but it certainly won’t be what most people call affordable. The 2024 model started at $267,000 for the non-hybrid V8, with the W12 running upwards of $350,000 or more. I don’t suspect this one will be any less expensive, so don’t be too surprised if the entry-level price winds up somewhere in the $300,000 ball park.
This pair of 505-horsepower Quadrifoglio models will be the last for the current generation.
They’ve been around for a few years now, but the Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio still offer plenty of flair and power in their Quadrifoglio forms, thanks to their Ferrari-inspired 690T 2.9-liter twin-turocharged V6 engines. After rolling out the 100th Anniversary models last year, we’re now getting what will be the last examples of the four-leaf clover as we currently know it. The 2024 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio Super Sport and its Giulia sedan counterpart will end the performance model’s run with internal combustion engines, as the brand transitions toward a fully electric future in the coming years.
Under the hood, the star of the show is still that 505 horsepower powertrain with 443 lb-ft of torque. While the engine does draw its heritage from the same engineer who designed the Ferrari F154, Gianluca Pivetti (a Ferrari/Maserati veteran who is now working for Renault’s Alpine sports car division), this is technically a bespoke engine, rather than the F154 with two cylinders lopped off. All-wheel drive is still standard fare for the Stelvio while the Giulia strictly sends power to the rear wheels, though both use an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Other special touches for the Super Sport models include blacked-out Quadrifoglio badging, carbon fiber accents on the grille and the mirror caps, black-painted Brembo calipers and dark-finish five spoke wheels that measure out to 21 inches on the Stelvio and 19 inches on the Giulia. Perhaps you spotted a trend throughout these two cars.
The interior doesn’t get an all-black treatment. Instead, you get red accents throughout the interior including the center console, instrument panel and door cards, as well as embroidered headrests and an Alcantara and leather wrapped steering wheel with carbon fiber accents. The 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Super Sport is available in three colors — Rosso Etna, Nero Vulcano and Bianco Alfa — while the Stelvio is only available in the first two shades. Giulia buyers can get an exposed carbon fiber roof, while those who opt for the Stelvio can get a dual-pane sunroof as an option.
If you want either one of these Quadrifoglio Super Sport models, you’ll have to act quickly. Just 275 Giulias will be available worldwide, with 72 of those coming to the United States. The Stelvio gets an even more limited run, with 175 units for the whole world, and 52 for the U.S.
Pricing for the 2024 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio Super Sport starts at $88,365 including Alfa’s $1,595 destination charge. That’s about $5,400 more than the standard top-end Giulia, though the Stelvio represents a bigger price hike. If you opt for the Stelvio instead, you’ll have to pay at least $95,965, or $7,000 above and beyond your usual Stelvio Quadrifoglio.
Orders for both cars are open now, with deliveries slated for the fall.
The 2025 Kia EV6 will get an EV9-like exterior update and a fresh interior.
We will be seeing changes with the 2025 Kia EV6 in the next few months. Like its cousin, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the EV6 is a representation of the sportier side of Korean EVs. The exterior changes are somewhat subtle. The headlights and taillights look very similar to the flagship EV9, but in a more esthetically pleasing package. That’s not up for debate…it just is. There is a new bumper design, but the new look is dominated by the new lighting design. The new 19, and 20-inch wheels help complete the new exterior changes.
Kia has included the EV6 GT-Line with those changes, but we have yet to hear about the GT. We can assume that they will all benefit from the updated interior. The main changes are the new three-spoke steering wheel, 12-inch heads-up display and digital rearview mirror. There are a few of the interior plastics have been updated. In addition, other trim pieces get a slight redesign as well.
Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay are wireless, and OTA (over the air) updates are now possible.
It’s what’s going on underneath that make this update notable
Kia has beefed up the B-pillar in order to make the structure more rigid. Back seat passengers benefit by new side-impact airbags too. According to Kia, the ride has been improved with a revamped suspension. Interior noise has been lessened with the muffling of the electric motors.
The big news is the battery. The former battery (77.4-kWh), which was good for up to 295 miles is being retired. The new battery is an 84-kWh unit, which is supposed to give the EV6 up to 307 miles range – in rear-wheel drive form. Despite the battery size difference, Kia says it can charge from 10-80% state-of-charge in 18 minutes, at a rate of up to 350 kW.
There is no word on pricing, or exact release dates. The 2025 Kia EV6 will go on sale in Korea next month. We expect to see the vehicle in our market shortly afterward, so keep an eye out for it around late summer or fall 2024.
Sweet ride, but make sure to check the VIN number before you buy.
A vehicle’s fingerprint provides essential information about its make, model, year, and origin. VIN numbers are crucial for various purposes, such as vehicle registration, insurance, and maintenance records. Understanding and verifying VINs is essential to ensure accurate vehicle identification and prevent potential problems. This knowledge is particularly important when dealing with popular cars of the week, as accurate VIN identification is key to ensuring transparency and authenticity in the automotive industry.
Understanding and the Importance of VIN Numbers
Each vehicle manufactured is assigned a unique code known as a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). A vehicle’s fingerprint provides essential information about its make, model, year, and origin. VINs are crucial for various purposes, such as vehicle registration, insurance, and maintenance records. Comprehending and validating VINs is essential to ensure accurate vehicle identification and prevent potential problems, as VINs use zeros (0) rather than the letter “O” to avoid confusion and to know if are there zeros in vin numbers.This knowledge is particularly important when dealing with popular cars of the week, as accurate VIN identification is key to ensuring transparency and authenticity within the automotive sector.
The Impact of Incorrect VIN Numbers
Incorrect VINs can lead to various problems, including:
Difficulty in identifying the vehicle: An incorrect VIN can make it challenging to accurately identify a car, leading to confusion and potential legal issues.
Inaccurate vehicle history reports: If a vehicle’s VIN needs to be corrected, its history report may not accurately reflect its factual background, such as previous accidents, repairs, or ownership changes.
Complications with vehicle registration and insurance: Incorrect VINs can cause delays or even rejection of vehicle registration and insurance claims.
Potential legal consequences: In some cases, using an incorrect VIN can be considered a criminal offense, leading to fines or legal penalties.
The Significance of Digits and Letters in VINs
VINs consist of 17 characters, which can be a combination of letters and numbers. Each character in a VIN represents specific information about the vehicle, such as:
World Manufacturer Identifier (WMI): The first three characters of a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) uniquely identify both the manufacturer and the country of origin of the vehicle.
Vehicle Description Section (VDS): The following six characters describe the vehicle’s attributes, such as the model, body type, and engine type.
Vehicle Identifier Section (VIS): The last eight characters are used for the sequential production number and a check digit.
Understanding the meaning of each character in a VIN can help identify potential errors or discrepancies.
Identifying Common VIN Mistakes
VINs Should Consist of 17 Alphanumeric Characters
One of the most common mistakes is having a VIN with fewer or more than 17 characters. Ensure that the VIN you verify has exactly 17 characters, including letters and numbers.
Recognize Invalid Characters in Your VIN
A common question is, do vin numbers have zeros or o’s, as this can cause confusion when verifying the information. Some letters are not used in VINs to avoid confusion with numbers. These letters include “I,” “O,” and “Q.” When reading a vin number 0 or o can often be confused with each other. When verifying a VIN number, it’s crucial to distinguish between the digit 0 and the letter O, as VIN numbers use zeros but never the letter “O” to avoid confusion.
Use VIN Checksum for Better Verification
When verifying a vehicle, it’s important to know what letters are not in VIN numbers to avoid any confusion or errors. The 9th character in a VIN is a check digit, which is calculated based on a specific formula. You can use online VIN check tools or calculators to verify if the check digit matches the rest of the VIN. If the check digit is incorrect, it indicates an invalid VIN.
The Confusion Between O’s and Zeros
It is important to know do vin numbers have zeros. One common mistake is confusing the letter “O” with the number “0” (zero) in a VIN. While they may look similar, they are different characters and can lead to incorrect VIN identification. When verifying a VIN, use the correct character to avoid confusion or errors.By understanding the importance of VIN numbers, recognizing common mistakes, and using available verification tools, you can ensure accurate vehicle identification and prevent potential issues related to incorrect VIN numbers.
In conclusion, detecting incorrect Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) is essential for maintaining accurate vehicle records, ensuring legal compliance, and preventing potential issues related to misidentification. By understanding the structure and significance of VINs, recognizing common mistakes, and utilizing verification methods such as checksum calculations, individuals can effectively identify and rectify incorrect VINs. Ensuring the accuracy of VINs facilitates smooth vehicle registration and insurance processes and helps maintain the integrity of vehicle history records.
FAQ
If you suspect an incorrect VIN, there are a few steps you can take:
To verify the discrepancy, double-check the VIN against the vehicle’s registration, insurance documents, and any other official records.
If the VIN needs to be corrected, report it to the appropriate authorities, such as the vehicle registration office or law enforcement, depending on your location and the circumstances.
If you are purchasing a vehicle, be cautious and consider having a professional inspection to ensure the VIN matches the car and that there are no other signs of fraud or misrepresentation.
For future reference, keep records of any communication or actions taken regarding the incorrect VIN.
By being vigilant and taking appropriate action when an incorrect VIN is detected, you can help maintain the integrity of vehicle identification and prevent potential issues related to fraud or misidentification.
The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid will round out the refreshed model lineup.
While the standard gas-powered Sorentos are already on sale, we’ve had a bit of a gap where if you wanted a hybrid, you had to buy the old pre-facelift model. That’s changing for the 2025 model year, in which the Sorento Hybrid will get the same range of updates. That said, prices for this new version are going up substantially, between $1,700 on the low end and a whopping $4,100 at the upper echelon.
Before getting into the trim walk, it’s worth noting that Sorento Hybrid models are powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine mated to an electric motor. Together, they manage 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, which places it between the standard 191-horsepower gas model and the more potent 281-horsepower variants. Hybrid models get a 6-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT.
The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid lineup still starts off with the EX trim, which now comes in at $40,065 to start. That’s a fairly hefty $1,700 increase, while the AWD version now starts at $41,865, or a $1,200 up-charge over the standard FWD EX.
Unlike the gas version, the Hybrid only comes in one other trim: the all-wheel drive-only SX Prestige. This is the trim that really sees a hike, as the $48,265 starting price is now $4,100 higher than it was for 2024. The SX Prestige trim adds more advanced features to the mix, including a curved panoramic display panel with dual 12.3-inch screens, a suede headliner, ventilated front seats and Kia’s Advanced Digital Key 2.0 functionality.
Kia pegs the 2025 Sorento Hybrid’s fuel economy at 36 mpg combined for front-wheel drive models.
Today’s announcement is actually the first among the 2025 Sorento models, so we still have to wait to see whether gas models are also getting an increase, as well as MSRP information for the plug-in hybrid. That should arrive soon, as Sorento Hybrid models should start rolling out to dealers and customers soon.
While we still don’t have every little detail, we do know how what options you’ll be able to pick for your ID. Buzz.
We’ve been waiting for years at this point for Volkswagen to finally, finally introduce the U.S.-specific version of its funky electric take on its classic Microbus. On Monday, though, the automaker revealed details on the trim walk, laying out three different configurations in which you’ll be able to order the 2025 ID. Buzz when it lands at dealers nationwide this July.
There aren’t any curve balls, of course, but this announcement does confirm that the company will, in fact, broadly follow the ID.4 as far as the rollout is concerned. The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz will launch with Pro S and Pro S Plus versions, plus a launch-only 1st Edition model. A single-motor, rear-wheel drive configuration will be the default setup, though you will be able to spec it with a dual-motor, all-wheel drive system.
All ID.Buzz models utilize a 91-kWh battery system (a decent size-up over the ID.4’s 82-kWh unit), and get 20-inch wheels, 30-color ambient lighting, and a 12.9-inch infotainment system as standard equipment. Buyers can opt for captain’s chairs, an electrochromatic glass roof, a head-up display, a flexboard cargo system, 360-degree camera and Harman/Kardon audio system as options.
By default, Pro S models (which are RWD only) get 282 horsepower, while 4Motion AWD variants get a boost to 335 horsepower. Pro S Plus and 1st Edition models will offer both RWD and AWD options. Range and pricing details are still a couple pieces we’re missing to complete this picture — VW says those details will be available in the coming weeks, closer to launch.
The 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz 1st Edition gets some special touches over the standard models, as you’d expect. Unique 20-inch wheels, roof rail cross bars, a coastal-themed interior and “heritage-inspired” floor mats and most of the options mentioned above come as standard kit on the 1st Edition.
It is a fact that millions of people who visit Florida each year need to accept that car accidents are a common occurrence in this part of the world, with thousands of crashes taking place each year. Awareness of the state’s distinctive no-fault insurance system and knowing the best car accident lawyers in Florida is critical for drivers who have been involved in an accident. Florida is one of just a few states that use a no-fault system, a system that has substantial consequences for how automobile claims and legal actions proceed following an auto accident.
Florida’s No-Fault System Overview
The purpose of Florida’s no-fault system is to guarantee that all those who are injured in car crashes receive the necessary medical attention as well as payment for lost salaries irrespective of who is at fault for the accident. This system is designed to minimize the amount of litigation caused by car accidents because each driver must have personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, which takes care of that driver’s injuries and lost earnings no matter who is at fault.
PIP in a Nutshell
PIP (personal injury protection) is a Florida mandatory insurance coverage. PIP insurance pays for injuries and lost wages caused by a car accident of the policyholder and within his policy limit. PIP benefits are paid no matter who was responsible for the accident, hence the term “no-fault.”
The No-Fault Exception of Florida
Despite that the no-fault system of Florida aims to facilitate receiving compensation after a car accident, there are exceptions permitting drivers to bring legal actions against at-fault drivers. Where the injuries acquired in a car accident are considered “serious” under Florida law, the injured party can file a lawsuit to pursue more compensation from the person responsible within the PIP insurance limit.
Claims Management in a No-Fault Insurance System
PIP claim in Florida is rather simple to file. In the case of a car accident, the drivers are supposed to notify their insurance company of the accident and seek medical care within 14 days in order to benefit from PIPs. The claim will be processed and benefits paid as per the policy terms by the insurance company.
Challenges and Critiques of the No-Fault System
However, as with any system, there are benefits as well as challenges and criticisms and the no-fault system is no exception. The major criticism of the no-fault system is the limitation imposed on the victims who suffer from severe or long-term injuries by the system in pursuit of maximum compensation for their injuries. In addition, some critics claim that a no-fault system can cause drivers to have drivers have higher premiums, as the insurance companies will pass the cost of PIP benefits to the policyholders.
Changes of Law and New Trends
Over the last few years, there have been several efforts to change the no-fault system in Florida. For instance, in 2012 the state legislature enacted a law intended to combat fraud and abuse in the PIP system through the implementation of more rigid rules governing medical service providers and capping benefits payable for select injury types. The outcomes of these changes have been controversial, some claim that the changes have reduced fraud, while others believe that they have deprived accident victims of receiving the necessary care.
Tips for Navigating Florida’s No-Fault System
Knowing Florida’s no-fault system is vital for drivers in the state to be properly covered when involved in a car accident. Here are some tips for navigating Florida’s no-fault system:
Know Your Policy: Gain knowledge of all the aspects of your PIP insurance policy, including the limits of coverage and the exclusions that may be in place.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly: If you are involved in a car accident and you are injured, get medical help immediately even if you think your injuries are minor. This will not only make sure you get the treatment you require but will also make your PIP claim stronger.
Document Everything: Maintain complete records of any medical treatment you receive as a result of a car accident and any other losses related to the injury. This information will be useful in case you have to sue the at-fault driver.
Consider Legal Advice: If you are not sure about your rights under Florida’s no-fault system and suspect that you may have a claim for more compensation than that provided by PIP insurance, seek the legal advice of a competent car accident attorney.
The no-fault system of Florida is a complicated legal structure that regulates the way in which car accidents are dealt with in the state. The system has its advantages and disadvantages and comprehension of how the system functions is crucial for drivers in Florida. Drivers can achieve the assurance of being adequately covered in the event of a car accident by getting acquainted with the main features of the Florida no-fault system and opting for legal advice, when necessary.
The first question comes from a Chevy fan who is upset that the Chevrolet Malibu is being discontinued, and blames us for its departure.
Q (YouTube): I know for a fact that outlets like TFL are responsible for the Chevrolet Malibu being cancelled.
Dismissing the Chevrolet Malibu and refusing to review it like everyone else made it unknown to buyers. It’s cancel culture like this that makes you so incompetent. How many times did you review the Malibu despite it competing against the Toyota Camry you reviewed hundreds of times.
The Chevrolet Malibu is fantastic with power and real good economy. The only thing it didn’t have is a hybrid WITH AWD but so what? It was very efficient and my 2019 is over 100,000 miles with absolutely no problems!
It’s not just you and your pack of clowns that are at fault and I can name tons of other journalists who are just as guilty. You all have bias against Chevy and it just cost Americans jobs. I hope you can sleep well at night!
– Ken_KoolAid
A: Sleeping fine Ken, thanks.
First of all, I opted to count the easiest-to-find video reviews of the Chevrolet Malibu that TFLcar produced. There were about a dozen, which means that we averaged more than one per year over a decade. That doesn’t count the posts we wrote here on TFLcar.com. In addition, there haven’t been that many changes over the past few years, which means we don’t have new info to offer viewers.
“…the Malibu hasn’t fared as badly as Ford’s Fusion and Taurus sedans did before they’re demise, as the company still sold 32,749 in the first quarter of 2024 (again, thank fleet sales for that). Nevertheless, that only represents 8.4% of Chevrolet’s overall quarterly sales, where SUVs and trucks now reign supreme as the brand already killed off the Impala and the Sonic for the North American market in 2020.”
Fleet sales, low overall consumer desire (8.4% of overall sales is poor), and the fact that GM wants to plant for the next Chevrolet Bolt – that seems to be a factor too. Rather than lash out about the failure of your sedan with GM, blaming us for its demise – perhaps you should ask yourself a simple question: “Which U.S. automaker is still building sedans?”
Better still: “how many consumers are buying sedans vs SUVs in this market?”
You won’t like the answer.
– N
The last question comes from a viewer who thinks that the proposed tariffs for Chinese tech should be extend to Volvo’s EVs.
Q (via: AskNathan@TFL.com) I used to be a huge Volvo fan. But now with their terrible PR, customer service and snaky sales people, I’m done.
For over 40 years I owned Volvos. At least a dozen. The company changed since they went to China and the terrible staff are part of that change. I think that they are ruined and that they should be responsible for paying chicken tax on electric vehicles. Since they are poorly built Chinese cars.
— RodStewartFan56
A: So far, I think Volvo EVs are quite good.
I have yet to experience the build issues you mentioned. In fact, I spent a week driving through California in a Volvo XC40 Recharge, and it was outstanding. Perfect car for SoCal, and the build quality, performance and overall experience was mighty good. Honestly. Soon, I hope to drive the EX30, which will be among one of the least expensive EVs sold in the United States – for now.
Sure, many companies have a few bad apples representing them, but it can’t be all bad with Volvo right? If you have complaints, I recommend contacting both Volvo and Geely. At least let them know your concerns.
As for tariffs… I do not cover foreign policy, nor do I have a horse in this race. I do know that slamming a company that offers an inexpensive EV in this market will increase the price – which is the point. That bothers me because consumers will suffer. It’s always the buyers who are looking for inexpensive cars that seem to suffer the most.
I wish that would change.
Rather than pointing fingers at organizations like the UAW, the White House and pressure from automakers, I just hope that all parties can find a way not to hurt the consumer.
With the new Toyota Land Cruiser and 4Runner, the automaker has two midsize, body-on-frame SUVs competing in roughly the same space. So, which one should you choose?
