The new Mercedes-Benz SL will roll off the Bremen, Germany assembly line later this year. (Images: Mercedes-Benz)
Mercedes is currently developing the new SL roadster.
It’s been a mainstay in the German automaker’s lineup for nearly 70 years. Dating all the way back to 1954 with the original 300SL, the next-generation model is on the way, and Mercedes is taking a clean-sheet approach to its design. That goes right down to the sheet metal, and the company showed new photos illustrating the composite aluminum chassis for this brand new ‘R232’ model, set to go on sale before the end of this year.
The new architecture, comprised of aluminum, steel, magnesium and fiber composites, aims to improve rigidity while reducing weight and maintaining ride comfort. “The requirements for the bodyshell architecture of the new luxury roadster were considerable,” says Chief Technical Officer Jochen Hermann. “When we [at Mercedes-AMG’s Affalterbach facility] were commissioned to undertake the overall development of the new SL, we started from scratch, so to speak, without building on any existing structure?”
The results on paper show higher rigidity than even the AMG GT Roadster. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz SL improves torsional stiffness by 18%, while improving on transverse rigidity by 50% and longitudinal rigidity by 40%. Generational improvements in convertibles typically yield more rigid chassis’ — particularly to meet crashworthiness standards. However, the ground-up approach does bring better numbers, at least according to Mercedes’ claims, than the evolutionary approach we’ve seen with some past models.
Now, more on the actual production SL should emerge in the next few months. In addition to the chassis changes, we should see some other seismic shifts including all-wheel drive capability and hybridized powertrains.
Mechanically related Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Kia EV6 promises a range of up to 300 miles.
The Kia EV6 uses the E-GMP electric vehicle architecture and it runs on the same 800V setup as its Hyundai brother. Kia has stated that if the EV6 is charged at peak capacity with a DC rapid charger, you get 210 miles of range in 18 minutes. There will be a 576 horsepower EV6 GT (among other variations) that is said to run 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.
Kia will offer their new EV in dealerships in early 2022. The EV6 GT will be available in late 2022.
2022 EV6
There will be four versions of the Kia EV6 :
Rear-wheel drive is standard on the first two models. The base model will have a 58 kWh battery with a single rear motor that puts out 167 horsepower. Equipped with a 218 horsepower motor, the mid-level model will have a 77.4 kWh battery. The top-of-the-line model will have all-wheel drive (two-motors) with a larger battery and 313 horsepower. Finally, there’s the EV6 GT with 576 hp that is said to run 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds.
(THE KIA EV6) MARKS A NEW AND TRANSFORMATIVE ERA IN KIA ELECTRIFICATION. THIS INNOVATIVE CROSSOVER LEVERAGES THE MANY BENEFITS OF ITS ADVANCED PLATFORM TO OFFER A LEVEL OF TECHNOLOGICAL EXCITEMENT AND CONVENIENCE THAT WILL PROVIDE A SUPERB OWNERSHIP EXPERIENCE.
Sean Yoon, president & CEO, Kia North America, Kia America
The Kia EV6 is unique:
One unique feature the EV6 has is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function. This system allows you to plug items into the EV6 and allow it to run those items. Anything from appliances, tools and – another car. If needed, it can charge another EV running at 1.1 kW. That’s about the same as your average 110v.
In a pinch, it can help power up another electric vehicle that may have run short. Yep, provided there’s enough power, it can run/charge a variety of items without setting up a converter. In fact, it can continue to charge things up to 36 hours, on a full charge.
2022 EV6
The Kia EV6 will have 21 various driver assistance and safety systems. According to the automaker, it will have an augmented reality head-up display. For those who would rather not have animal skin to sit on, there will be a 100-percent vegan leather option.
Like other hatchbacks/crossovers, the Kia EV6 will be pretty utilitarian. It can provide up to 53.5 cubic-feet of cargo space with the rear seat folded flat. That’s a bit less than the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, bur more than the Nissan Leaf.
Pricing and other technical data have yet to be released.
New spy shots (shown here, via Automotive News) hint that the global Toyota Corolla Cross will make its way here, probably with some minor changes. (Images: Toyota)
One of Toyota’s latest crossovers looks set for a North American debut after all.
New photos (shown here, as Automotive Newsreports) show the Toyota Corolla Cross — a new model whose global version debuted last summer — on U.S. roads. Most automakers are choosing to double down in this sort of in-between segment, and it looks like the Japanese automaker wants in on the action as well.
In fact, reports say this is the new crossover Toyota will build at its new Alabama factory, in a joint venture with Mazda. Expect some minor changes from the car’s official Thailand debut last summer, though the looks shouldn’t drastically change by the time it arrives in North America. When it does get here, the small crossover will sit between the subcompact C-HR and the RAV4, much the same way as the Mazda CX-30 sits between the CX-3 and CX-5. You may not think there’s enough room between those small crossovers, but so much competition is emerging beyond the CX-30 that it’s becoming more of its own segment. Think about the Chevy Trailblazer, Buick Encore GX, Kia Seltos and the Hyundai Kona as Toyota’s most direct rivals here.
Leaning on the “Corolla” side of the Toyota Corolla Cross, expect some powertrain similarities with the passenger car. Namely, for both to share the automaker’s TNGA-C platform and 1.8-liter 2ZR-FXE engine. Paired to a CVT, the inline-four manages about 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. If anything, Toyota may need to consider the 2.0-liter “Dynamic Force” inline-four with 169 horsepower to split the difference between the CH-R and RAV4 — but that’s not a given. What is a given is that Toyota will almost certainly offer a Corolla Cross Hybrid model down the line, as it does offer overseas.
When to expect the U.S. Toyota Corolla Cross
With the current chip shortage, it’s really anyone’s guess as to when these cars will actually arrive. Toyota, of all manufacturers, is one of those better prepared to whether the situation that’s currently hampering global production lines. As such, we may well see the new Toyota Corolla Cross sometime early next year.
These images show the global Corolla Cross, though the interior for a North American model should look almost identical (with left-hand drive).
Whether Toyota will ultimately replace the C-HR with this model — at least in North America — also remains unclear. For the time being, Mazda insists upon keeping the CX-3 as the value entry to their lineup, but they’ve pared it down to just one trim level. As the CX-30 outsells its smaller sibling nearly ten to one (and Toyota’s RAV4 does outsell the C-HR by ten to one), we could see a shift in Toyota’s lineup in the foreseeable future.
On its face, the 2022 Mercedes-Maybach S680 may not look like a massive leap over the car it replaces. This car is supposed to be a symbol of absolute power (in more ways than one), yet you still get a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine with 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. That engine’s still a monster — and it’s obviously sticking around, for those fearing its demise. However, it’s not any more powerful or torquier than the outgoing S650 Maybach. Nevertheless, this new car does pack plenty of refinement even on a standard S-Class, and does bring some significant powertrain changes into play.
Naturally, the 2022 Mercedes-Maybach S680 takes on the streamlined styling of the new S-Class. On your request, you can get the traditional Maybach two-tone paint scheme as well, in ten available combinations. Overall, though, the key to the top-dog S-Class hasn’t been the exterior styling, but the interior appointments.
Step in past the electronically-powered comfort doors, and the 2022 Mercedes-Maybach S680 brings Nappa leather and wood trim throughout the cabin. But what about the silver-plated champagne flutes and refrigerated compartment? Those are still there as well. The rear seat passengers can even use gesture controls to control the roller blinds and panoramic sunroof, in conjunction with the MBUX Interior Assist feature up front.
It may be a hyper-luxury car, but performance is still substantial.
Once you settle into the expectedly sumptuous interior appointments and acquaint yourself with the MBUX system, the 2022 Mercedes-Maybach S680 still brings the performance goods. Beyond the ‘Maybach’ setting within the Dynamic Select system for maximum comfort, Mercedes also claims enough power to “rocket” the V12 limousine up to speed. Per the official specs, the S680 can hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, on its way to an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph. Not earth-shattering — it’s perhaps a bit quicker than the old one — but still not bad given what kind of car this is.
A first for the 2022 Mercedes-Maybach S680, though, is the inclusion of 4Matic all-wheel drive. No longer is this limo a rear-wheel drive only model, but — hold on, purists — there is an asterisk there. The system is 69% biased toward the rear, sending no more than 31% of the torque to the front axle. For a bit extra maneuverability, the Maybach’s rear-wheel steering can also turn in either direction up to 10 degrees, depending on your wheel selection. Staggered wheel setups will benefit less, getting just 4.5 degrees of rear steering instead.
This time around, the company’s now-ubiquitous 9-speed automatic mates up to that V12, offering two extra gears over the old model. Don’t expect that to do any wonders for fuel economy, though. EPA figures have yet to emerge, but European estimates of 14.1 to 13.3 L/100km means you likely won’t see north of 18 mpg. Most of the time, you’ll see around 16 mpg, not that it particularly matters for the sort of folks who can afford a Maybach in the first place.
Pricing: No numbers yet, but if you have to ask…
As ever, the 2022 Mercedes-Maybach S680 is an exclusive car for a particular kind of buyer. While Mercedes did say it will arrive in the first half of next year, the company did not specifically mention price at this point. Considering the old Maybach S650 rang in at $202,550 to start, however, I’d expect this new one to command a similar price, if not more.
Pirelli developed a new tire for the most popular crossovers and trucks, offering up new technology and a 70,000-mile treadwear warranty. (Images: Pirelli)
The new Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 aims for all-season traction and durability.
When you do need to shell out hundreds of dollars on a new set of tires, it makes sense to get the best set for most conditions, right? That’s what tires like the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 shoot for, anyway, and today’s announcement brings some new technology to the “touring” tire class — while this specific model covers crossovers, SUVs and trucks. In all, Pirelli offers 37 sizes to fit 17 to 22-inch wheels, covering a wide variety of vehicles.
The headline feature with the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is their 3D sipe technology. Along with a new blend of compound materials, the tire manufacturer says the tread design offers better all season capability by optimizing tread block stiffness for better handling, then opening up on snow-covered surfaces to help dig into the snowpack for better cold weather traction. Pirelli also says tire noise and comfort are hallmarks of the new Scorpion AS Plus 3, again thanks to a new tread pattern.
The “Plus” line is aimed specifically at North American drivers, keeping our need to cover vast amounts of miles in mind. To make good on the durability prospect, the company offers a 70,000-mile treadwear warranty. Key models that the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 hits include the Honda CR-V, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota Highlander, Kia Sorento and the Ford F-150.
If you are shopping for new tires, Pirelli launched a dedicated website here.
The first question comes from a reader who has some information on a Ford Bronco pickup truck rumor.
Q: I don’t understand why we are still seeing rumors about the Ford bronco pick up truck when they are about to introduce a electric F150.
Two weeks ago, I sent you a email but I didn’t hear back. You did respond on Twitter, so I’m sending this email now. I came across the story and it seems to indicate that Ford is serious about building a Bronco pickup truck. Just look at the sketch and the information. It looks like they are serious. But I don’t understand why they would build it if everyone is going electric? Does this make sense to you? Please see the attached link.
— A.Nemia
A: I’ve never seen the sketch of a Bronco pickup truck before, but I heard about it.
First, let’s discuss why Ford would consider building a Bronco pickup truck. The Bronco line is already extremely successful for the automaker. The return on their investment is already paying off, despite all of the slow-down issues. Why let Jeep own the market when Ford is clearly aiming for the same audience?
Rather than build a Ford Ranger Raptor for our market, why not build a serious off-road pickup that competes with the Jeep Gladiator based on a Bronco? It’s essentially a Ranger platform to being with, when you think about it. Still, imagine the upgrades for the Bronco underpinnings under something longer. Why not charge a larger chunk of change for a Bronco pickup, rather than a Ranger Raptor?
I’m not saying that they are going to do this; it’s just my conjecture based on your question.
The other part is: the Ford Lightning EV pickup compliments the massive F-Series line of pickup trucks. If Ford wishes to expand their EV footprint among their pickups, they now have a platform to work with. It will still be several years before internal combustion engines fade out. With that in mind, Ford has taken a first step other automakers will have to take soon.
It’s possible that, with the success of their hybrid F-150, they may bookend the F-Series lineup in the future with hybrids and EVs. Those powertrains may find their way to the Bronco lineup as well.
I have to say: Ford is hitting the industry at several angles at once. It’s intriguing – no?
Back to the Ford Bronco pickup; that extending tailgate idea is epic!
– N
The next question comes from a fan who is look at Fiat discounts.
Q: (Via Twitter @NathanAdlen) Hi Nateee- Ol’ boy!
First of all, I love TFL and you are funny as hell! Also love your taste in rock GO RUSH!! I have a 2014 Fiat 500 Turbo with 120,000 miles on it. Only issue was a bad alternator, tire replacement and front brakes. Not bad I think! I love my little Fiat but its time to move on. I found great deals on the 500X. Want to stick to Italian identity you know? Saw your video and I think I can get one for way under its MSRP even now! It’s a 2020 but basically new. I like it. What do you think? Give the boys my best!!
— Jian79
A: I’m glad you had a good run with your little Fiat.
The 2020 Fiat 500X is not too shabby, but it’s not as zippy as your 500 turbo. It’s kind of slow, and it won’t feel as fleet-of-foot as your old Fiat. Still, it has a good AWD system, it’s much more utilitarian, and I enjoyed my snow-covered bash with it. Actually, it behaves like a little rally car on slippery surfaces, when you figure out a few things.
Honestly, I would recommend a Honda, Toyota, Subaru or Mazda product first – but I can see you like the funky Fiat persona.
I’m happy for you, but please remember: Fiat values sink quickly, so your return on investment will be poor. Still, it’s a happy little car. Let me know how it works out!
The last question comes from a fan who is truly upset at the ridiculousness of gas hoarders.
Burned H2 after gas hoarding.
Q: (Via: casual conversation) Some gas hoarders are insane. Do they not understand how dangerous and unnecessary their actions are?
The reports of people filling up plastic bags, and plastic contains is alarming! People have blown themselves up all over the country!
Image via Facebook/MotorBiscuit
A: It’s a hell of a situation.
I see shades of the toilet paper hoarding from 2020 in this behavior, only more dangerous. People are getting hurt by doing this, and some of the consequences are downright deadly. This who thing is absurd, and on top of that, people are hoarding gas in areas that are not affected by the hacked pipeline. By the way, supply is returning to normal from that event
Please, just calm down and use your head. Risking your life, and that of others just to bring home a few extra gallons is a terrible idea. Do your research, see exactly what areas will truly have to deal with the shortage. In SEVERAL cases, the people filling up bags, suitcases and Tupperware with gasoline were not even in the same state(s) where the shortage will kick in.
Even actual gas cans can be extremely dangerous if handled or stored inappropriately.
Please, please, please – think about what you’re actually doing!
The 2021 Toyota Supra has some nifty gizmos inside, and Tommy is going to show you all of them.
Like the past few years, the 2021 Toyota Supra has caused a bit of an uproar in the office. It has been called a Japanese BMW (which it is – no insult there), difficult to look at, and an 8/10ths car that’s missing a manual transmission options. On top of that, the taller members of our crew found it uncomfortable. Still, it is a beast of a car that handles beautifully.
Over the past few years, we’ve sampled both the four and this six-cylinder – boy are they powerful. This model is the turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 24-valve inline-6. It has an aluminum block and head, direct fuel injection and puts out 382 horsepower. All that power is fed to the rear wheels via an eight speed automatic transmission.
We’ve driven both of the main variants of the Toyota Supra. Everyone agrees that both models are a driver’s car, but Tommy decides to dive even deeper.
This is the previous generation Supra, but you can see some of its design tropes in the new one.
Among (just a few of) the notable call outs in this video: Tommy points out a number of fake vents; but according to Toyota, you can make them functional if you go to the aftermarket. Tommy also notes that the door vent goes absolutely nowhere.
Tommy calls out BMW several times in this video, especially when he goes under the hood, into the trunk and inside the interior. This vehicle definitely is a miss-mash of Toyota and BMW components. He also mentions how difficult it is to enter and exit. We all like the spoiler, as it is right out of the previous generation Supra. While Tommy enjoys the double bubble roof, the interior is still too small for tall people.
Check out this video and see what Tommy uncovers with this bright yellow 2021 Toyota Supra!
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder is rolling off the line at the Smyrna, Tennessee plant starting this week. (Photos: Nissan)
Nissan’s revamped Pathfinder is almost here.
There are quite a few changes in store with the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, and the new model actually hitting dealers inches closer to reality this week, as the first production examples roll off the line. As before, Nissan’s midsize SUV will roll out of the Smyrna, Tennessee assembly plant.
Right from the start, the fifth-generation model gets sharper, more robust styling. The changes bring this car in line with the its siblings both up and down the product stack, including the smaller Rogue and the larger Armada. More importantly for a wide range of shoppers, the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder drops its old CVT in favor of a new 9-speed automatic transmission. Mated to that is a familiar 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6, putting out 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is the default option, though you can also get the new Pathfinder with all-wheel drive as before — but now, there are seven different drive modes from which to choose.
One notable feather in the Pathfinder’s cap is its 6,000-pound towing capacity, and that situation doesn’t change with this new generation. You still get the same amount of towing capability as before.
The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder gets a dramatically updated interior to complement its new exterior look — one that focuses on more substantial lines over flowing curves. The focal point is a standard 9-inch infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, while the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.8-inch head-up display are available on the upper Platinum trim.
No pricing information is available for the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder yet, but we should get that in the coming weeks. As these cars are actually rolling off the production line now, we won’t have too much longer to wait to see how the trim walk stacks up to the old model.
Roman just bought one of the most hated modern Land Rovers to prove a point: Even this SUV doesn't suck! Or maybe it does...that's what we're going to find out in our latest project series.
