In the past decade, we have witnessed a phenomenon no one expected: the demonization of diesel engines, further fueled by the 2015 "Dieselgate" scandal.

Ten years after the Volkswagen scandal, a study claims that the exhaust emissions of modern gasoline engines are actually worse for human health.

The study was conducted by the German research center "Helmholtz Munich" and the University of Rostock, and was published on the portal "Science Advances" – reports B92.

This research focuses on gasoline engines, particularly on the efficiency of particulate filters that have been mandatory since the Euro 6d regulation.

Transformation of Exhaust Gases in the Atmosphere

It is warned that emissions from modern gasoline cars, although compliant with European regulations, can become much more harmful when released into the atmosphere.

The German center's research focused on a gasoline-powered car equipped with a particulate filter, a technology used in diesel vehicles since Euro 5 to reduce combustion emissions, and in gasoline vehicles since Euro 6d. According to the research, freshly emitted exhaust gases did not show noticeable cytotoxic effects on human lung cells.

However, after photochemical aging—a natural transformation process driven by sunlight and atmospheric oxidants—they became significantly more toxic.

"Aged emissions caused significant DNA damage and oxidative stress in both cancerous alveolar epithelial cells and normal bronchial epithelial cells. This toxicity was not only linked to the newly formed particles but also to oxygenated volatile compounds, such as carbonyls, which formed during their time in the atmosphere," the study explains in detail.

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Challenges with PM 2.5 Particles

On the other hand, the study points out that "emissions from modern gasoline vehicles, compliant with the current Euro 6d exhaust emission standard, still lead to the formation of SOA (secondary organic aerosol), which exceeds POA (primary organic aerosol) levels."

Furthermore, it states that "no apparent difference was observed in SOA formation between a light EURO 5 gasoline vehicle equipped with a GPF (gasoline particulate filter) and a EURO 6b gasoline car without a GPF."

Therefore, the implementation of emission standards has only been partially successful in suppressing PM 2.5 particles from gasoline vehicles, considering both their primary and secondary sources, the study concludes.

The site Phys.org emphasizes that although the Euro 6d standard guarantees low exhaust emissions, it does not account for the chemical transformations that these emissions undergo after being released into the environment.

In other words, current regulations measure emissions produced immediately after combustion, but not how they behave once they exit the tailpipe. This is a problem because filtered emissions remain toxic when exposed to sunlight.

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In this context, the research notes that "recently, secondary organic aerosol (SOA) has been linked to an increased risk of death from cardiorespiratory diseases in the U.S."

"It is known that gasoline-powered vehicles are major contributors to SOA formation in urban areas, where atmospheric oxidation of aromatic volatile organic compounds (VOC) emitted as unburned fuel or produced during combustion dominates," it concludes.

Can an electric car be a "real" AMG? With 1,360 horsepower and a simulated V8 engine sound, the GT XX Concept is doing its best to prove it.

Mercedes’ performance division has already faced challenges when moving away from the proven V8 formula.

Their turbo-hybrid four-cylinder C63 was technically impressive but widely criticized for its weight and lack of emotion.

Sales have been poor, and even AMG’s CEO Michael Schiebe admitted that the company "could have explained" the drivetrain better to customers.

This time, AMG isn't holding back. On Wednesday, they unveiled the GT XX Concept – a super sedan with 1,360 HP and a top speed of 360 km/h, marking a prelude to the first fully electric AMG model, coming next year.

If it delivers on its promises, Mercedes aims to be a serious contender to models like the Lucid Air Sapphire and Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, with a dash of AMG spectacle.

Although it's not yet a street-legal production model – evidenced by GT3 racing seats with five-point harnesses – AMG claims the technology is ready for production and will be part of future models built on the AMG Electric Architecture (AMG.EA).

The design of the GT XX won’t be to everyone’s taste – but its front end, in the legendary orange color of the C111 supercar, has a powerful, unmistakably Mercedes look.

AMG states the drag coefficient is just 0.198 – an exceptional figure for a car with wide tires and traditional mirrors (by comparison, Lucid Air achieves 0.197).

Special aerodynamic wheels help achieve this – five carbon fiber panels electrically expand or retract as needed to cool the brakes or optimize airflow.

They don't draw power from the battery – they’re powered by electric motors driven by the wheel’s kinetic energy.

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Mercedes says these wheels add only "one to two kilograms" compared to standard ones.

The interior features carbon racing bucket seats with personalized cushions made based on a scan of the customer's body.

The seat fabrics and interior linings are made from old GT3 tires – reportedly, one tire is enough for the entire car.

Orange accents and ambient lighting dominate, and in front of the driver is a large tablet-style screen and a "steering wheel" shaped like a race car’s.

Beneath the surface, the GT XX uses an 800-volt system with an advanced battery pack capable of charging at 850 kW. That’s enough for 400 kilometers of range in about five minutes.

Power is sent to all four wheels via two electric drive units (EDUs) with a total of three axial-flux motors – two in the rear and one in the front.

Total output: a massive 1,360 HP, which is 109 more than the Lucid Air Sapphire (1,251 HP) but less than the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra with 1,548 HP.

The rear EDU is the main power source, while the front disconnects during cruising or light load driving to increase efficiency.

Direct-cooled cylindrical battery cells – the supplier is not disclosed – offer better thermal management and durability during sporty driving sessions.

Of course, it wouldn't be a true AMG without sound drama. From the very first encounter, you hear a simulated V8 engine roar.

Mercedes confirms the car will feature an artificial sound system, and Schiebe says an unnamed executive remarked it was “the best V8 we’ve ever developed.”

Two speakers are built into the headlights and direct sound around the vehicle.

Will the AMG GT XX actually enter production? Some elements, like the rear LED light bar, might not meet regulatory standards.

But if the concept’s performance becomes the foundation for future AMG production models, the Affalterbach team could seriously shake up Lucid and Porsche.

If the AMG EV is built in Germany, it will face a 25% tariff in the U.S., along with added costs for battery components.

And the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra already offers similar performance – and is already on sale (in China).

Still, it’s refreshing to see a manufacturer fully commit to developing a high-performance EV, instead of juggling hybrids that weigh as much as a studio apartment.

We might just be heading toward an electric future full of V8 sounds.

A car may show reduced performance during summer heat, even if it's in perfect working condition.

Just like the human body, a car doesn’t cope well with high temperatures. In winter, fuel consumption increases because the engine takes longer to warm up, while in summer, the engine quickly reaches operating temperature but its efficiency drops.

The car operates optimally with a precise fuel-to-air ratio. On hot days, less oxygen enters the engine because warm air is less dense. As a result, combustion is not ideal, leading to a loss of power.

In addition, using the air conditioner puts extra strain on the engine. However, driving without it in a cabin at 60 degrees Celsius is hardly an acceptable option, according to HAK Revija.

This drop in performance during hot weather is completely normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

Tips If Your Car Loses Power on the Road in High Temperatures

Stop and Turn Off the Engine

Experts from "Hot Vehicle Guide" recommend: as soon as you notice a power drop due to overheating, stop in a safe place, turn on your hazard lights, and switch off the engine. This prevents further damage and allows the engine to cool down.

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Check Coolant Level After Cooling

Once the engine has cooled down (wait at least 15–30 minutes), carefully and with protection from possible hot splashes, check the coolant level in the expansion tank and top it up if needed – but only if the engine is cold, writes The Sun.

Turn Off the A/C

The air conditioner adds extra load to the engine in hot weather and can contribute to power loss. It's recommended to turn off the A/C until the engine stabilizes, and only use it again once everything is in order.

Call for Help if Needed

If the engine continues to lose power after cooling down or if warning lights remain on, it is advised not to take any risks and to call for roadside assistance.

The American branch of Volkswagen recently announced that the ID.4 for 2026 will receive “additional features,” and now more details are known.

In an interview with Autocar, Volkswagen’s board member for technical development, Kai Grunitz, hinted that the ID.3 and ID.4 will undergo a facelift to align them more closely with the ID.2 model. As part of the redesign, Grunitz suggested that a “lower and firmer design” can be expected.

The styling updates will reportedly continue inside as well, with a completely new interior likely. Details remain vague, but it is stated that the ID.4 will receive a new instrument panel and user interface.

Volkswagen is also expected to bring back physical controls, including a rotary volume knob. As one insider noted: “If you develop something that works for years, there’s no reason to change it.”

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Details about the powertrains remain unclear, but as EV technology advances, some updates can be expected. This could include more powerful and efficient motors, as well as updated batteries.

The facelifted ID.3 will reportedly debut in the second quarter of 2026, with the ID.4 to follow later that year. Autocar also reports that the company plans to introduce a rival to the Jeep Avenger, known as the ID.2X, at the upcoming auto show in Munich.

The new Lada combines modern design and technology with a competitive price.

Russia is currently facing war in Ukraine and international sanctions, but that hasn’t stopped domestic manufacturer AvtoVAZ from presenting the first completely new SUV from the Lada brand in nearly three decades.

Instead of the long-anticipated new generation of the Niva, the company introduced the Azimut, a 5-door SUV with a modern design.

The model is planned to launch in 2026 and is said to be entirely designed, developed, and manufactured in Russia—since international cooperation is, to say the least, complicated.

The Azimut looks surprisingly modern for a Lada and could compete with models like the Dacia Duster and Bigster.Bigster.

The front end features a raised hood and short overhang, as well as Lada’s signature X-motif in the grille and lighting design, while the boomerang-shaped LED headlights integrate harmoniously with the grille and air vents.

Practical Interior

From the side, you can see pronounced fender flares, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and a two-tone body with discreet plastic cladding.

The rear has a LED strip connecting the taillights, while the rear bumper features plastic inserts styled like aluminum and decorative exhausts.

The interior feels familiar and aligned with modern automotive trends. A digital dashboard combines the instrument cluster and a 10-inch multimedia screen with built-in navigation and a virtual assistant.

The software was developed in collaboration with the Russian company Sber and the tech firm Navio.

In addition to the two screens, standard equipment includes six speakers, a rearview camera, and keyless entry.

Optional features will include wireless phone charging, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, heated side windows, a power tailgate, and a 360-degree camera.

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There is also ample storage space throughout the cabin, as well as electric adjustment for the steering wheel and front seats.

The only available photo of the interior reveals a rotary switch on the center console for selecting drive modes for different terrains.

Gasoline Engines

At launch, the Azimut will only be available with gasoline engines, without any electrification. The lineup includes a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter engine with 120 hp and a 1.8-liter unit with 132 hp.

These engines will be paired with a six-speed manual gearbox or a CVT.

For those who want more power, Lada also announced a turbocharged version with 150 hp and an automatic transmission—but this will come later.

The SUV is built on a modified version of the Vesta platform, which has been on the market since 2015 and was refreshed in 2022.

With a ground clearance of 208 mm, the Azimut stands out among SUV models. The development lasted three years and involved nearly 1,000 new or modified components in the body, interior, and mechanical systems.

Despite its rugged appearance, the Azimut will likely only come with front-wheel drive, similar to the Vesta sedan and wagon.

Still, Lada emphasizes its "off-road concept" and "all-conditions driving capability," which could indicate plans for an all-wheel-drive version in the future—or simply refer to the look, height, and selectable drive modes.

Price and Availability

Production of the Azimut will begin in 2026 at the Togliatti plant, but due to the war and sanctions, it's unlikely to be seen outside Russia anytime soon. Russian media estimate the starting price to be between 2.5 and 3 million rubles (around €28,000 to €33,000), making it the most expensive Lada model to date.

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For comparison, the old Niva Legend starts at 1,059,000 rubles (about €11,700), while the more modern Niva Travel starts from 1,314,000 rubles (about €14,500).

The Vesta sedan and wagon range from 1,239,900 to 2,197,000 rubles (€13,700 to €24,300), clearly showing that the Azimut is a step forward—both in price and in the manufacturer’s ambitions.

Although it's not an entirely new model, the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram impresses with its details.

The SL 680 Monogram series further enhances Mercedes' luxury roadster with mechanical upgrades focused on comfort and slight design changes compared to the "standard" version.

The most significant changes are on the exterior. A new and unique combination of exterior and interior colors and materials has been introduced, with the Maybach pattern as the unifying design element.

These special accents appear everywhere, from front to rear, inside and out.

There are two design concepts for this open-top two-seater.

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The Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series Red Ambience features a new two-tone exterior combining black metallic and MANUFAKTUR Garnet Red metallic paint.

In the Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series White Ambience, the black metallic paint contrasts with MANUFAKTUR Opalite White.

Mercedes explains that "the radiant red and elegant white embody sensuality, beauty, and lightness."

They perfectly express the philosophy and driving experience of the new model.

Other exterior colors are available upon special customer request.

The interior features sustainably tanned crystal white MANUFAKTUR exclusive Nappa leather and decorative elements in high-gloss silver chrome.

In terms of specifications, the car uses a 4.0 bi-turbo V8 engine with 585 hp (430 kW) and 800 Nm. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, with a top speed limited to 260 km/h.

Power is delivered to all four wheels via a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission.

Did you know that a car breakdown abroad can cost you as much as an entire vacation? The holiday season has begun, and many people are choosing to travel by car. What should be done beforehand to ensure a safe trip? Car mechanic Pavle Zogović reveals.

He emphasized that the most important thing is for the car to be safe and ready from both a technical and safety standpoint.

– About a month before your trip, to have enough time to do everything, visit a car service center — whichever brand you drive or one that’s close to you. A full inspection is carried out, as we do here. Basically, when the car arrives, it's thoroughly checked:

• entire suspension,
• everything around the engine,
• error diagnostics,
• tires,
• even the wipers — absolutely everything is checked.

We tell customers what needs replacing so they have time to respond. Especially during the travel season, it’s always busy, there's often a shortage of parts, everything adds up — and that’s why you need time to prepare. One, two, five, even seven days before departure is absolutely unacceptable – Pavle explains.

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He added that it’s extremely important to repair the braking system if needed, because otherwise it’s unsafe.

When the brake system is faulty or so worn out that it’s completely unsafe, it endangers not only the car owner but also others on the road.

Why Cars Catch Fire on the Road

In recent days, several incidents were recorded where vehicles, including buses, caught fire while driving. In light of these events, Pavle explains why and how fires occur in cars.

– The most common issue today compared to before is oil leakage, especially in diesel engines. Due to vehicle design, the oil often drips onto the exhaust, and because of the high temperatures — especially in vehicles with a DPF filter — combined with exhaust heat, you have a recipe for a car fire. In certain areas, like uphill roads or mountainous regions, the load increases temperature, contributing to the issue. Another cause is the electrical system, but that's a much smaller problem today – he notes.

How to Use Car Air Conditioning Properly

With Serbia experiencing the first summer heatwave and high daily temperatures, staying in vehicles has become a special challenge, especially for those who spend most of their day in them. In this context, Pavle also emphasized the ideal temperature difference when using car air conditioning — reports Kurir.

– Nowadays, most cars have automatic climate control, which adjusts the temperature based on cabin conditions. Still, I recommend no more than a 10-degree difference because it’s really a shock. If you stop at a gas station or for a rest break, you could step into a 15-degree temperature jump. Many drivers avoid automatic mode and set the lowest temperature. Sure, the cabin will cool faster, but if you're starting a trip, let the cabin cool gradually — ideally keeping that difference within 10 degrees – Pavle concludes.

Seven clear signs that it's time to replace your battery – check before going on a trip.

Planning your vacation? Before you hit the road, check the condition of your battery – a failure could leave you stranded at the worst possible moment.

The battery is a key component of every car – it stores electricity and starts the engine, but has a limited lifespan, typically between 3 and 5 years.

Its condition depends on quality, driving habits, and weather conditions. When it weakens, various problems may occur that make it difficult or impossible to start the vehicle, writes the Automobili.ba website.

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These 7 signs may indicate that your battery needs replacement:

The engine starts slowly, especially in cold or extremely hot weather.
The car sometimes starts, sometimes it doesn’t – a typical sign of unstable voltage.
Electronics weaken or shut off – radio, lights, displays.
The battery drains quickly – for example, listening to the radio for ten minutes while the engine is off.
You need to jump-start the car every two or three days.
The indicator (“magic eye”) shows black or red instead of green.
The battery case is damaged or cracked – immediate replacement is necessary!

Battery failure is among the most common causes of problems on the road. That’s why it’s advisable to regularly check the voltage and charging – especially before a long trip.

How to Extend the Life of Your Battery?

Don’t leave electronics on while the engine is off.
Regularly clean the terminals and cables.
Avoid exposing the battery to extreme temperatures – park in the shade or garage whenever possible.

A little attention today can save you a lot of money and stress tomorrow. Safe travels!