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!

Volkswagen Golf is losing the battle – production is down 75%, moving to Mexico.

Since the first Golf rolled off the production line in late March 1974, Volkswagen has produced more than 37 million units.

It is by far the most popular car in the company’s history, far ahead of the Beetle (21.5 million) and Polo (20 million). But it seems that the Golf’s star has begun to fade.

According to a presentation by the workers' council at the Wolfsburg factory, production of this model has sharply declined in recent years.

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Reuters obtained an internal document and reports that VW produced over one million Golfs (hatchback and wagon versions) worldwide in 2015, while last year only slightly more than 300,000 units were made.

For 2025, the German manufacturer expects even fewer – just 250,000 vehicles. That’s a 75% drop in just one decade, according to B92.

The head of the workers' council, Daniela Cavallo, told Reuters that "the downward trend is irreversible and unstoppable."

Why is the Golf no longer successful? There are several reasons.

Software issues with the eighth generation initially weakened demand. VW was also criticized for the noticeable drop in interior quality compared to the excellent Golf Mk7.

The removal of physical controls, poorly positioned slider below the screen, and capacitive buttons on more expensive trims before the facelift further pushed buyers away.

But the key reason lies in today's obsession with SUV models.

The T-Roc, essentially a crossover version of the Golf, is nearly as popular as the hatchback. According to Dataforce, 216,549 Golfs were sold in Europe last year – only 13,000 more than the T-Roc.

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VW plans to move the production of the combustion engine Golf from Wolfsburg to Mexico starting in 2027.

When that happens, a four-day work week may be introduced at the German plant, where the Tiguan, Tayron, and old Touran are also produced.

Ninth-Generation Golf Will Be Fully Electric

The Golf is expected to return to Wolfsburg by the end of the decade – but as a fully electric ninth-generation model. The electric T-Roc will also be produced there.

In the meantime, VW is implementing major cost-cutting measures – it plans to eliminate up to 35,000 jobs in Germany by 2030.

More than 20,000 employees have already signed agreements to leave within the next five years.

By the end of the decade, annual production in Germany will be reduced by 700,000 vehicles, much of which will result from moving Golf production to Mexico.

It’s important to note that the Golf is not only produced in Wolfsburg – VW also assembles it in Malaysia and China.

And while the electric Golf is already on the horizon, the current internal combustion engine model could remain in production until 2035, according to Kai Grünitz, VW's head of technical development.

The rugged SUV looks like it could rival the Dacia Duster.

Although most SUV owners never leave the asphalt, the desire to at least look like they could is growing stronger.

Keeping up with that trend, Stellantis brand Opel has introduced the Frontera Gravel – a rugged-looking concept based on the family SUV, hinting at upcoming adventurous gear in the near future.

The concept was developed at Opel's design center in Rüsselsheim, in cooperation with a community of enthusiasts and tuning experts from BlackFish and XS.

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Off-road Appearance Without Real Capability?

The Frontera Gravel stands out with a host of off-road inspired additions: a Thule Canyon XT roof rack, extra LED lights on the hood and roof, a front winch, a side toolbox...

It also features 16-inch Borbet CWE wheels with BFGoodrich off-road tires, giving at least the proper visual impression – even if the vehicle never leaves the campground parking lot.

The body is covered in a matte Desert Stone wrap, with black surfaces on the hood and roof, while orange accents decorate the skid plates, mirrors, roof rack, and brand emblems.

Inside, there are microfiber seats with orange details and a black headliner for a more off-road feel.

Electric Drive, Front-Wheel Drive – and Mild Off-Road Capability?

Opel has confirmed that the Frontera Gravel is based on the electric version of the Frontera model, which comes exclusively with front-wheel drive.

Although far from a true off-roader, Opel claims that the concept can handle “mild off-road adventures” thanks to its low center of gravity and strong torque.

The most powerful Frontera Electric version uses a 156 hp (115 kW) electric motor and a 54 kWh battery, with a range of up to 400 km.

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Although it’s not built for serious off-roading, this setup is sufficient for weekend gravel-road excursions.

All-Wheel Drive? Not Yet

Unfortunately, an AWD version is not in the plans. Such a setup would be possible with the addition of an electrified rear axle in a mild-hybrid version, as already seen in the Jeep Avenger 4Xe and Alfa Romeo Junior Ibrida Q4, and soon in the Fiat Grande Panda 4×4.

The Frontera Gravel will be officially unveiled on May 30 at the "XS Carnight" event in Wörthersee, Austria.

Although it’s just a concept for now, a production version seems like a realistic possibility – especially if Opel decides to compete with rugged variants of other models, like the Dacia Duster Dakar.