There’s a lot of profit in selling SUVs, but you know what? These hot wagons are just damn cool.
After three decades and two other generations of selling a wagon (or “estate”) version of its M5 in other markets, BMW finally sees fit to bring the latest M5 Touring to the U.S. market. To that, I and several other enthusiasts say “halle-freaking-lujah”. Later this year, this twin-turbocharged, plug-in hybrid wagon pumping out 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque will hit the market to take on the Audi RS6 Avant and, hopefully, a new version of the Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon.
If you caught the M5 sedan’s reveal earlier this summer, you already know most of the performance details for the M5 Touring. Under the hood, there’s an electrified version of BMW’s 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. On its own, the engine produces 557 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, but it’s backed up by a 194-horsepower electric motor sandwiched in with the 8-speed automatic transmission, that also puts out 207 lb-ft of torque. So, together, the powertrain puts out some serious grunt — through an all-wheel drive system, of course — that makes this 5,530-pound wagon sprint from 0-60 in 3.5 seconds.
In addition to the sheer power on tap, the new M6 also carries a 14.8-kWh battery pack onboard. According to manufacturer estimates, the M5 Touring should manage around 25 miles on a single charge, though like most PHEVs, you’ll have to recharge it on an 11-kW Level 2 AC charger, or using the engine.
Despite the immense mass the 2025 BMW M5 Touring has to work with, the automaker claims a perfect 50:50 weight distribution between the two axles, as well as a low center of gravity. This M5 wagon’s top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph by default, though you can raise that up to 190 mph through the optional M Driver’s Package, as usual. The wagon, for its part, gets some additional chassis strengthening for its underfloor elements and the 57.6 cubic-feet cargo area (with the rear seats down) versus the sedan.
Taking a look inside the M5 Touring
By and large, the 2025 BMW M5 Touring carries over from the sedan in terms of layout and features. The increasingly standard dual-screen setup for the digital gauge cluster and infotainment system featuring 12.3-inch and 14.9 inch displays, respectively, are front and center here. There’s an 18-speaker Bowers & Wilkins stereo setup putting out 655 watts of power, but one notable feature the wagon gets that the sedan doesn’t is BMW’s “Sky Lounge” fixed panoramic roof. Fortunately, if you have any fears of getting cooked under that much glass, there is an electronic roller blind.
If you’re looking to pick up a 2025 BMW M5 Touring, it won’t be cheap, but you probably expected that. Pricing kicks off at $122,675 including the brand’s $1,175 destination fee. Production will kick off at the Dingolfing plant in Germany later this year, with the worldwide launch for the M5 Touring slated four the fourth quarter (somewhere between October and December).
ZDX is just the start — Acura has a brand-new high-performance EV in the works.
A few years ago, Acura brought out its “Precision EV Concept” before it formally introduced the production-spec ZDX. Fast forward to 2024, and specifically Pebble Beach, and we have another new Acura EV model, this time built on the automaker’s dedicated platform. Meet the Acura Performance EV Concept.
So, what is this model all about? To an extent, it’s a glimpse into the design of Acura’s next-generation models, according to Acura design executive and company veteran Dave Marek. “As with our previous Acura concept vehicles, the Acura Performance EV Concept introduces a number of design themes that will be seen on future Acura vehicles.”
Clearly, the Performance EV Concept’s taller ride height and body belie its intent as a hot SUV, whether you’re keen on that whole trend. It is extremely popular, but if you were expecting a revival of the NSX, this isn’t it. The Performance EV Concept does nod to Acura’s heritage, though, as it says the full-width taillight and large rear diffuser does pay homage to the second-generation model. The front fascia, for its part, “draws inspiration from the high-tech form and function of hydrofoil superyachts,” according to the brand’s statement Thursday.
The Acura Performance EV Concept does have sportier design traits, even with its general high-riding form. From the A-pillar rearward, there’s a far sleeker, coupe-like shape with a large glass area. The overhangs are notably short, and at each corner Acura brought in 23-inch wheels with 295/35-R23 performance tires. It also has performance brakes with cross-drilled rotors and color-matched painted calipers (here, Acura is showing the concept in Moonlit White Pearl).
At the moment, the tire size is really the only technical specification we have. Acura did not go into any details on potential powertrains, battery capacities, electrical architecture, power figures, and so on.
We should know far more next year, as the production model should actually kick off in late 2025. The actual street-ready version of the Acura Performance EV Concept will not just be the first on Honda’s in-house EV platform, but it will also be the first model to emerge from its new “EV Hub” in Marysville, Ohio.
The Performance EV Concept will make its public debut at The Quail in Monterey on Friday, at 10:36 A.M. Pacific Time.
The screech of metal on asphalt. The sickening jolt that throws you forward. The dust settling as you take stock of the wreckage – the mangled remains of your car dwarfed by the imposing semi-truck. In the blink of an eye, your life is turned upside down.
We understand. Semi-truck accidents are some of the most horrific incidents on the road, leaving a trail of physical, emotional, and financial devastation. If you’ve been involved in one, you’re likely facing a mountain of challenges. Medical bills pile up, lost wages eat into savings, and the emotional toll can be crippling. You might be wondering where to turn, who to trust to fight for the compensation you deserve.
That’s where a skilled semi-truck accident lawyer comes in.
The Importance of a Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer
The aftermath of a semi-truck accident is no time to go it alone. Here’s why having a lawyer on your side is crucial:
Understanding Complexities: Semi-truck accident cases involve a unique set of laws and regulations. Trucking companies have a team of lawyers protecting their interests; you need someone who understands the intricacies of these cases to fight for yours.
Investigating the Cause: Determining the cause of the accident is vital. Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence like police reports, witness statements, and truck driver logs to identify who’s responsible.
Building a Strong Case: With the evidence gathered, your lawyer will build a compelling case that maximizes your chances of securing fair compensation. This may include medical records, expert testimonies, and calculations of lost wages and future earning potential.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are notorious for offering lowball settlements. Your lawyer will handle negotiations, ensuring you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Taking it to Court (If Necessary): If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. Their experience in litigation will ensure you have the strongest possible representation in front of a judge and jury.
A Story of Strength and Resilience
Imagine Sarah, a young teacher, driving home on a clear Texas night. Suddenly, a semi veers into her lane, causing a head-on collision. Sarah suffers a broken leg, a severe concussion, and emotional trauma. The medical bills pile up, and she’s unable to work. Feeling overwhelmed and desperate, she reaches out to a semi-truck accident lawyer.
The lawyer investigates the accident, uncovering evidence of driver fatigue on the part of the truck driver. They meticulously document Sarah’s injuries and lost wages, building a strong case. After aggressive negotiations with the trucking company’s insurance provider, they secure a settlement that covers Sarah’s medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. With the financial burden lifted, Sarah can focus on healing and rebuilding her life.
Beyond the Settlement: Long-Term Support
A semi-truck accident lawyer’s role extends beyond securing a settlement. They can also:
Connect you with medical resources: They may help you find qualified doctors and specialists to ensure you receive the proper medical care.
Guide you through the legal process: They will answer your questions and keep you informed throughout the entire legal process, reducing stress and anxiety.
Advocate for your rights: They will be your unwavering advocate, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
FAQs
How much does a semi-truck accident lawyer cost?
Many accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. This eliminates the upfront financial burden for you.
What should I do after a semi-truck accident?
Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Contact the police and file an accident report. Don’t speak to the trucking company’s insurance provider without consulting a lawyer.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit after an accident?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas is generally two years. However, it’s crucial to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any deadlines.
What if the truck driver wasn’t at fault?
A semi-truck accident lawyer can still help you explore your options. They can investigate other potentially liable parties, such as the trucking company, a maintenance provider, or a parts manufacturer.
Don’t Face This Alone: Finding the Right Accident Lawyer
The road to recovery after a semi-truck accident is long and arduous. But you don’t have to walk it alone. A skilled lawyer can be your champion, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve while navigating the complexities of the legal system.
Remember:
Seek legal counsel as soon as possible. The sooner you have a lawyer on your side, the sooner they can begin building a strong case.
Look for a lawyer with experience in semi-truck accident cases. Experience is key; you need someone who understands the intricacies of these cases and has a proven track record of success.
Schedule consultations with several lawyers before making a decision. This allows you to find a lawyer who you feel comfortable with and who understands your specific needs.
The Aftermath of a semi-truck accident doesn’t have to define your future. With the right legal support, you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Vehicle buyers need to get all the specifics about a car before purchasing it to avoid mis-missing on their safety, financial records, legal requirements, and mind. A VIN check service does just that.
[image: Maxwell Ridgeway, Unsplash]
Understanding the VIN Check Service
A competent VIN check service like https://stat.vin/ significantly contributes to making a detailed car history report by revealing adequate information about the vehicle’s past. Here are some critical aspects of how a VIN check service contributes to understanding a vehicle’s complete history: Here are some key elements of how a VIN check service contributes to understanding a vehicle’s complete history:
Identification and Verification: The VIN is somewhat akin to a car’s fingerprints and includes data concerning the make, model, year, and place of manufacture of the car. A competent VIN check service employs this number to ensure that it gets the right details of the car.
Ownership History: In the country of origin, a VIN check can provide details about ownership history, including the number of previous owners, the duration of each separate ownership, and registration information. This assists in comprehending the car’s history and whether it was often sold between different owners.
Accident and Damage Reports: A VIN check service helps obtain detailed information on any accidents, damages, or repairs a car has ever had. Such information remains vital for evaluating the consequences and possible hazards related to prior events.
Title Information: It provides information on the car’s title history, such as whether it is a salvage, rebuilt, or branded one. Knowledge about the title history eliminates cars with a dubious history, including cases where the car was stolen or seriously damaged.
Recalls and Safety Issues: VIN check services inform buyers of any open recalls or safety concerns linked to a particular car. This information helps to make buyers aware of possible dangers on the road and allows for the repair of any outstanding recalls.
Maintenance Records: Some VIN check services provide access to maintenance records, service history, and odometer readings. This data offers insights into the car’s maintenance and servicing patterns and indicates how well the vehicle has been cared for over time.
Fraud Prevention: VIN checks help prevent fraud by verifying the vehicle’s authenticity and detecting potential discrepancies in the provided information. This protects buyers from scams, stolen cars, or misrepresented histories.
Ensuring Safety and Reliability
A VIN decoding service plays a crucial role in identifying recalls and safety issues with a vehicle by providing access to relevant information from the manufacturer, regulatory agencies, and other sources. Here’s how the VIN decoding service helps in this aspect and why it’s essential to be informed about potential safety concerns:
Identifying Recalls and Safety Issues:
Manufacturer Notifications: VIN decoding services can access manufacturer databases, allowing them to check for any open recalls associated with a specific vehicle. This ensures that you are promptly notified if the vehicle is subject to any safety-related recalls issued by the manufacturer.
Regulatory Agency Data: These services can also retrieve information from regulatory agencies such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or similar organizations in other countries. This data includes safety-related defects, complaints, investigations, and recall information that can affect a vehicle’s safety.
The Importance of Being Informed:
Safety Awareness: Being informed about recalls and safety issues via VIN decoding is vital for understanding potential risks associated with a vehicle. This awareness enables you to assess the safety implications and take necessary actions to address any outstanding recalls before purchasing or driving the vehicle.
Informed Decision Making: By knowing about any safety concerns identified through https://stat.vin/vin-decoding/gmc/yukon, you can make a well-informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase, negotiate repairs with the seller, or seek alternative options.
Legal Compliance and Safety: Staying updated on recalls and safety issues ensures that you comply with safety regulations and safeguard yourself, your passengers, and other road users from potential hazards due to unresolved safety-related defects.
In summary, the VIN decoding service is critical in identifying recalls and safety issues associated with a vehicle. It empowers consumers to make informed decisions by providing essential information about potential safety concerns. This knowledge helps ensure the safety and peace of mind of the buyer and anyone using the vehicle.
Automotive software development first appeared in cars during the 1960s. As a result, the industry has evolved dramatically, with electronics, particularly software, now serving as major sources of innovation. Automotive software enhances dependability by incorporating active and passive safety systems such as anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control. Additionally, consumer electronics are gradually being integrated into automobiles.
We all drive software now. [image: unsplash]
The Purpose of Software Development
The objective of any automotive software development involves creating a new feature or improving an existing one. Such features provide additional benefits and conveniences to the driver, other passengers, mechanics, and carriers, as well as ensuring legal compliance, simplifying maintenance, and increasing design and manufacturing efficiency.
Technical implementation
The technical realization can be mechanical, hydraulic, or electronic. Several of these technologies are frequently combined, and electronics are increasingly playing an important role in implementing many automotive innovations. The use of electronics and software, which form the logical core of systems, allows the intelligent functions of the drive, chassis, and rest of the vehicle to be effectively implemented. Electronics now control and monitor virtually all functions in all classes of vehicles. Technological progress and electronics development enable the realization of many new, more powerful functions through the use of software.
Software requirements
The software requirements in an automobile vary greatly. Many engine management and traffic safety systems must ensure that control operations are responsive enough to keep up with the physical process. As a result, when controlling very fast physical processes such as motor control or driving dynamics, computations must be completed quickly. Furthermore, many industries place a high value on dependability. This is especially relevant for safety functions. Sophisticated diagnostic systems monitor the vehicle’s software and electronics.
Major complexities
Automotive software is used in a wide range of vehicle variants and models. It must thus be easily adaptable to the respective systems. It includes calibration parameters and program cards to accomplish this. Their number in a vehicle can reach into the tens of thousands. These controllable variables have numerous interdependencies. Furthermore, the degree of interconnection between individual systems is steadily increasing. A single function is increasingly being split across multiple systems or ECUs.
Most automotive software is designed for specific applications and then integrated into a single system. It is also known as embedded software, which is stored on a permanent memory device. Many functions are frequently developed and refined over long periods of time in various parts of the world. Because spare parts must be available even after the production of a specific vehicle is completed, the electronics in a vehicle must have a relatively long service life of up to 30 years.
Who Monitors Compliance with Standards?
The Association for Standardization of Automated and Measurement Systems (ASAM) promotes standardization in the automotive industry in terms of data models, interfaces, and syntax. ASAM has established several standards for connecting an ECU to a computer or data input terminal. The ASAM-MCD1 standard (MCD – Measurement, Calibration, and Diagnosis) supports a variety of data transfer protocols. Using the ASAM-MCD2 specifications, it is possible to access binary data in the ECU while also displaying and processing the data as physical values. The ASAM-MCD3 standard also allows for automated processes, such as data calibration. Other ASAM standards govern activities such as the exchange of functional descriptions and data.
Electronic standards
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) is an organization that sets standards in electrical and electronics engineering. The IEC offers three systems of analysis to ensure that the products meet international standards. The IEC works in partnership with ISO, ITU, and other standards bodies.
Software standards
The Motor Industry Software Developers Association (MISRA) is an automotive industry organization that creates guidelines for the development and implementation of dependable software in automotive systems. It is best known for its programming standard, MISRA-C. It establishes guidelines for reliable C programming. The goal of this standard is to prevent run-time errors caused by unreliable C constructs and structural weaknesses caused by programmers’ misunderstandings, as well as to protect expression correctness. Many rules can be automatically checked and considered when generating codes.
OSEK and VDX standards
The standardization body “Open Systems and their Interfaces for Automotive Electronics” (OSEK) emerged from a project of the German automotive industry. Later came the Vehicle Distributed Executive (VDX) initiative of the French automotive industry. Standardization of basic software components is carried out under the auspices of OSEK/VDX in the following areas:
Communication (data exchange within and between ECUs);
Operating system (real-time execution of ECU programs and basic services for other OSEK/VDX modules);
Network management (configuration and control).
Quality Control in Software Development
As with any technical product, automotive software development also utilizes many quality control tools. Unlike mechanical and electrical engineering, quality control plays a less significant role in software development because it is relatively easy to reproduce. The important points here are the overall functionality of the system, quality standards, mastery of complexity, and application. Since the software in an automobile also covers safety-relevant systems such as dynamics control and DAS, quality control plays an important role. In addition, the economic representation of software quality is very important, especially in complex systems.
Automotive Features and Technology Outlook
New automotive features and technologies will continue to increase the amount of software in cars – even in the budget segment. At the same time, the number of ECUs in many vehicles remains the same. As a result, the capabilities of some ECUs continue to expand. In general, system distinctions between different ECUs are disappearing, such as in hybrid drive control. Thus, automobile electronics are becoming more complex. As a result, the economic component will play an important role in future automotive software and development environments.
Another trend is the increasing virtualization of development, where parts of later development phases such as testing and calibration are integrated into simpler development phases so that, for example, already functional models can be cyclically tested and supplied with data on a preliminary basis. In this way, failures are detected earlier and weaknesses are remedied just before the start of series production.
What It All Means
The development of automotive software has changed the automotive industry. The use of electronics and software has made it possible to come up with new features and systems that make the car more enjoyable to drive and safe as well. The future of automotive software development also holds a lot of potential for further enhancements of vehicle performance, safety, and comfort, which is why it is interesting to track this industry.
With a starting price of $23,230, the 2025 Nissan Kicks gets a modest bump over the old car.
Even though the original Nissan Kicks was a good value proposition when it first hit the U.S. market in 2018, this second-generation model is making a more aggressive push to compete against popular rivals like the Toyota Corolla Cross and Honda HR-V. Despite the new look and updated tech, though, this model doesn’t see a major price increase over the outgoing 2024 version.
In fact, the 2025 Nissan Kicks S starts off $490 higher than last year’s car, at $23,230 (including Nissan’s $1,390 destination charge). For that, you get a battery of standard driver assistance tech by way of Nissan Safety Shield 360, as well as adaptive cruise control and LED lighting. The real upgrade for this new generation, however, is the option to get all-wheel drive, even on the base model. That option will set you back $1,500 for the base S and top-end SR, and $1,650 on the mid-range SV.
Speaking of the SV, the $25,070 middle point of the 2025 Nissan Kicks lineup ($26,720 for AWD) is where you’ll arguably get the best value for money. The base 7-inch touchscreen on the S gets an upgrade to a far more substantial 12.3-inch unit that adds in wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The SV also adds in larger 17-inch wheels and wireless smartphone charging. A $1,500 SV Premium Package ups the content another step with heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, illuminated visor mirrors, a sunglasses holder, seatback pockets and remote engine start.
Finally, the $27,570 SR ($29,070 for AWD) SR tops out the 2025 Nissan Kicks range. For that, you get larger 19-inch alloys, unique LED signature headlights, two-tone interior stitching and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The highest trim is also the only point in Nissan’s entry-level crossover lineup where you get ProPilot Assist for semi-autonomous driving capability and a 360-degree camera system. Again, if you want more goodies, the $1,950 SR Premium Package adds in heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, remote engine start, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system.
The 2025 Nissan Kicks is rolling out to dealerships nationwide in the coming weeks.
Following the short-wheelbase Tiguan’s European debut, this Chinese-market model previews the longer version we’ll get here in the U.S.
Over the past fifteen years, we’ve had two generations of Volkswagen Tiguan here in the U.S., with a few facelifts along the way. The third-generation model launched in its shorter, two-row form late last year. While that version gave us a pretty good idea of what we can expect, this crossover — about to be launched in China as the ‘Tayron L’ — is more of an apples-to-apples view of what should debut in North America sometime in the next few months.
Thanks to figures published through China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, we know the Tayron L measures out to 184.4 inches long, on a 109.9-inch wheelbase. It’s 73 inches wide and 66.3 inches tall, which makes it a little bit bigger in most dimensions, though that wheelbase is exactly the same as the current model. That’s because this car rides on VW’s MQB Evo platform, which underpins the Tiguan you can buy right now, so the major changes at play here come down to styling and technology, rather than an entirely clean-sheet design.
While several other automakers have leaned toward chunkier, more aggressive styling, the Tayron (and indeed, the short-wheelbase European Tiguan) stuck to softer features at the front end, similar to the brand’s electric models like the ID.4. There’s a full-width LED light bars both front and rear, and the R-Line trim gets its own unique bumpers at each end. For some reason, I can’t stop looking at the oddly placed “R” badge on the Tayron L R-Line model (it’s integrated into the grille facade on the Euro version), but that along with the accompanying fender badges will be one way to tell the sportier-looking model apart.
Inside, we should see similar touches to the European version shown below. That includes a new 15-inch center display with a snappier version of VW’s infotainment system. We’ll also get an updated version of the brand’s Digital Cockpit, a rotary dial for the media controls and a column-style shifter, rather than the old console-mounted unit.
Chinese customers get several different trims and powertrains at launch, according to the MIIT filings. A 1.4-liter TSI engine is available, as are two versions of the 2.0-liter unit, managing either 184 or 217 horsepower. Right now, we in the States get the 184-horsepower EA888 2.0-liter engine, so that powertrain should carry over, potentially with a mild-hybrid setup to save a bit of fuel. The real question, though, is whether we’ll get the plug-in hybrid model with 265 horsepower and 62 miles (using the WLTP cycle) of all-electric driving.
More answers should come later this year before an actual production launch in 2025. Before that, though, at least we know with near-absolute certainty what we can expect in the looks department.
The “big” reveal for the 2025 Ford Bronco Sport is coming on August 26.
While some folks may look past the compact Bronco Sport in favor of its big brother, the numbers don’t lie: it’s been one of Ford’s strongest sellers. So far this year, dealers have shifted 59,754 examples, to 50,152 full-size Broncos. It makes sense that the Blue Oval is expanding the lineup, then, with “something big” coming up in two weeks’ time. Take a peek at the Instagram teaser below, and it’s not too difficult to put two and two together. You know, with the hairy arm, the grunting and the forest…get it?
Yes, there’s a new Bronco Sport Sasquatch on the way. Again, given the SUV’s proximity (and shared namesake) with its bigger brother and the big Bronco’s relaunch as an off-road icon, particularly with the Sasquatch Package, it makes sense to filter the option downward.
What exactly can we expect from a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Sasquatch? I’m a little doubtful it’s quite as thorough as what you get with the full-fat Bronco. The bigger SUV gets front and rear locking differentials, a more aggressive 4.7:1 rear axle ratio, Bilstein off-road shocks, 35-inch mud-terrain tires and optional beadlock-capable wheels. Ford’s existing Bronco Sport Badlands is already a remarkably capable little SUV, however, so adding beefier all-terrains and some extra underbody protection wouldn’t hurt its case off-road. We might see some upgrades like reprogrammed “G.O.A.T.” modes or actual mechanical changes, but we’ll have to wait and see what Ford has up its sleeve.
Since a 2025 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands-based Sasquatch probably won’t go as hardcore as the big Bronco, it may not cost as much over the standard model. That said, the Bronco Sport Badlands is already nearly $40,000 to start, so even a $3,000 or so upgrade package will tip it over that mark.
