Cars

Electric Toyota Highlander Coming Soon to the Roads

Cars

Toyota continues to dominate the SUV market, and the Toyota RAV4 is once again the world’s best-selling model.

Behind it, the most popular Toyota SUVs are the Highlander and Grand Highlander. However, there is a noticeable trend that buyers increasingly prefer the larger Grand Highlander, so in light of this, Toyota announced it will consolidate the production of electric vehicles at its plant in Georgetown, Kentucky.

This decision includes adding a new assembly line, which will free up capacity for the Grand Highlander and make it easier to meet the high demand.

Previous plans foresaw that the new electric SUV would be produced at the plant in Princeton, Indiana, but according to Automotive News, production of this EV model will be moved to Kentucky by 2028.

This change in production location is significant because, in addition to the mentioned EV, a smaller three-row electric SUV is also expected to be produced in Kentucky, which should arrive as early as the first quarter of 2026.

Here lies the opportunity for the Highlander to step out of the shadow of its bigger brother and build its own identity in the electric vehicle market. Realizing that its naming strategy for electric vehicles was confusing, Toyota has already renamed the bZ4X to the simpler bZ for 2026, reports Autoblog.

Because of this, it is expected that the upcoming three-row EV, which was originally supposed to be called bZ5X, will also be renamed.

According to rumors, the name Highlander is reserved precisely for this smaller, lighter electric model with three rows of seats. Although Toyota has not officially confirmed the details about the naming and marketing of these EV models, they emphasized that they "plan to produce two brand new three-row battery electric SUVs in the US," adding that "both vehicles will now be assembled in Toyota Kentucky."

It is expected that production of the model named Highlander will start earlier, so it could arrive in showrooms at the beginning of 2026, meaning its unveiling is very likely before the end of this year.

The new Highlander BEV will be one of seven new electric vehicles that Toyota plans to launch in the US by mid-2027, following already announced models like the bZ, bZ Woodland, and the 2026 CH-R.

The cheapest family car in the world? It has three rows of seats and costs 6,000 euros (PHOTO/VIDEO)

Cars

Even though it has three rows of seats, the Renault Triber is actually shorter than the Clio model.

While Renault in Europe is increasingly expanding its range of hybrids and electric vehicles, its strategy in India still relies on internal combustion engines.

One of the key models in that market is the Renault Triber, a compact minivan with crossover elements, which has now received a mid-cycle refresh and belongs to the budget-friendly cars for every buyer.

The redesign brings a sleeker exterior look and several thoughtful upgrades inside to keep the model competitive in the growing budget vehicle segment.

The facelift comes six years after the launch of the original model.

The recognizable front end with a grille inspired by the Megane has now been replaced by a sharper and more confident front design.

Although the headlights kept their outer shape, their inner “graphics” have been updated, and they now visually fit better with the slimmer grille featuring the new Renault logo.

The front bumper has been redesigned with more robust styling elements, including silver details around the central air intake, while the hood now has more pronounced lines.

On the side, changes are subtle. The silhouette remains almost the same except for the new design of the 15-inch wheels, an optional black roof, and decals that imitate protective cladding (similar to the Dacia brand).

At the rear, changes are also discreet – the taillights now have a darker look and new LED graphics, along with a black strip on the tailgate and a slightly modified bumper.

More equipment, same practicality

Inside, the refreshed Triber adopts the dashboard from the mechanically related Kiger SUV.

This means it now features a slightly higher positioned 8-inch multimedia screen paired with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster.

Additional upgrades include lighter beige upholstery, a redesigned climate control unit, and useful new features like wireless phone charging.

The practical layout with three rows of seats remains unchanged, still offering space for seven passengers.

However, since the car is extremely compact, the third row of seats is best suited for children or very short trips.

Those who value trunk space more can fold down the rear row to get a volume of 625 liters.

A small minivan smaller than the Clio

Even though it has three rows of seats, the Triber is only 3,985 mm long, making it even shorter than the Clio model.

It shares its platform with the Kwid, Kiger, and Nissan Magnite models.

Unfortunately, the redesign does not bring any technical changes – under the sheet metal, everything remains the same.

Engine and transmissions

The Triber still uses a naturally aspirated 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine producing 72 hp and 96 Nm of torque.

Renault does not offer the turbo option that is available in the Kiger model.

Buyers can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic (AMT), both with front-wheel drive.

Price remains the main advantage

The refreshed Triber is already available to order in India, with the base Authentic trim priced from 629,995 rupees (around 6,200 euros).

The most expensive Emotion trim costs 916,995 rupees (around 9,000 euros).

As seen in the promotional video, the base version comes with steel wheels and no touchscreen, focusing only on the essential needs of those looking for maximum savings.

What do the L, B, M, and +/- symbols on an automatic gearbox mean and when should you use them

Cars

Although not all cars have them, knowing these modes can make driving easier, increase safety, and protect your vehicle.

Automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly common, and positions like P (park), R (reverse), N (neutral), and D (drive) are familiar to everyone.

However, many still don’t know what the "L" symbol on the gear lever is for – even though it can be extremely useful in specific conditions.

What does "L" mean?

The "L" symbol stands for Low. When the gearbox is switched to this mode, it prevents automatic shifting into higher gears, keeping the vehicle in first or sometimes second gear.

This way, the engine operates at higher RPMs and delivers more torque, providing better power and control over the vehicle in challenging conditions, writes Index.

When to use "L"?

This mode is especially useful in the following situations:

Towing heavy loads – trailers, boats, or campers
Driving up steep inclines – the engine provides more power without shifting up
Driving down steep declines – allows engine braking, reducing strain on brakes
Driving on snow, mud, or sand – low speed and better control in tough conditions
Maneuvering in tight spaces – more precise control at low speeds

Important: constantly driving in "L" mode is not recommended as it increases fuel consumption and accelerates gearbox wear.

What does the "B" symbol on an automatic gearbox mean?

The "B" symbol (Brake) is most often found on hybrid vehicles and activates regenerative braking.

In this mode, the electric motor converts kinetic energy into electricity during deceleration, recharging the battery and slowing the vehicle down.

It is most useful on long downhill stretches, helping with controlled braking without overusing the brake pads, thereby extending their lifespan.

What do the "+", "–" and "M" symbols mean?

These symbols indicate the possibility of manual gear shifting:

M (Manual) – manual mode
"+ / –" indicates manually shifting up or down

This feature is ideal for:

Sporty driving
Driving in hilly areas
Towing heavy trailers

This way, the driver has more control over the vehicle, which can be invaluable in certain situations.

So, next time you get behind the wheel of a car with an automatic gearbox, use "L", "B", "M", or "+/–" if your gearbox includes any of these options.

Knowing about these modes can make driving easier, increase safety, and protect your vehicle.

Camaro coming back? GM promises a “beautiful and fun” new model that will shake up the market (PHOTO)

Cars

Chevrolet produced the last Camaro in December 2023, when a ZL1 1LE with a manual transmission rolled off the assembly line in Lansing, Michigan.

But when the company announced the end of the model that same year, the company’s global vice president, Scott Bell, hinted that the Camaro might still have a future: “While we are not announcing an immediate successor today, rest assured – this is not the end of the Camaro story.”

However, even two years later, there is still no new Camaro. Nevertheless, a senior official from General Motors addressed the possibility of the seventh generation coming.

Speaking to The Detroit News, GM President Mark Reuss said that if the Camaro returns, it would have to meet certain criteria:

“I think the formula that combines beauty – and a bit of functionality and fun – is extremely important. If we’re bringing back the Camaro, that element is really key. I think it would be a great formula, and we have the opportunity to do it.”

Still, Reuss warned that “the segment is shrinking,” citing the example of the Ford Mustang, which in 2024 had lower sales than the electric Mustang Mach-E.

That year, 51,745 units of the Mach-E were sold, while gasoline models – coupes and convertibles – reached 44,003 units.

However, in the first half of 2025, the Mustang regained the lead: by June, 23,551 units had been sold, compared to 21,785 units of the Mustang Mach-E.

Earlier this year, a report claimed that a proposal to revive the Camaro was doomed by GM management’s decision due to poor profitability.

No matter how much enthusiasts disagree, sports cars are losing market share. Mustang sales fell by 14.2% in the January–June period, after Ford sold 9.5% fewer units in all of 2024 compared to the previous year.

For a new Camaro to succeed, it would have to use internal combustion engines. Chevrolet has already learned that the market is not yet ready for an electric version of the Corvette.

The model’s chief engineer, Tony Roma, openly said: “Nobody wants it.”

It makes sense to assume that market research for an electric Camaro would bring similar results.

Looking at rival Stellantis, early discounts on the electric Dodge Charger don’t inspire confidence. Still, Dodge is trying to turn things around by launching the Sixpack version this year, powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder twin-turbo engine.

There are also rumors that the Hemi V8 engine will return at the end of 2026. If that happens, it will further confirm that Americans’ love for large-displacement engines – and internal combustion engines in general – has not disappeared, especially in the high-performance car segment.

This Renault is sold out until 2028! PHOTO

Cars

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E is sold out until 2028, with only half of the total production quota still available.

This 533-horsepower hyper hatch is an electric homage to the original Renault 5 Turbo, featuring a completely custom-built platform and performance that can rival supercars.

It’s extremely exclusive, with planned production limited to just 1,980 units – a reference to the launch year of the original car. The first 1,000 units have already been reserved, and prices for the remaining ones start from €155,000, reports Autocar.

The company has started building the first prototypes and is on track to begin deliveries to customers next year, they pointed out, adding that Renault’s most expensive car so far has attracted a diverse clientele.

"We have different types of customers, but what they all share is a passion for sports cars. Some are owners of the original R5 Turbo and want to have the new one too, and some own several cars – Alpines, Ferraris, or Porsches – and find this car different and exotic," they added.

Production of the 3E model is planned to end in 2029, and for now, there are no plans for similar extreme limited editions – but that doesn’t mean there won’t be any in the future.

Renault 5 Turbo 3E can accelerate from 0–100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds, from 0–193 km/h in under 9 seconds, and it has a top speed of 270 km/h.

New Study: Gasoline Engines Are Actually More Harmful than Diesel!

Cars

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.

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.

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.

Welcome to the Future! Mercedes’ Electric GT with 1,360 HP and a V8 Sound is Coming PHOTO

Cars

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.

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.

It's Not Uncommon for a Car to Lose Power in the Heat – Here's Why

Cars

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.

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.