This is a quick roundup of what’s happened in automotive for the week of June 23-29, 2024.
4th Generation BMW X3 Will Have Plug-in Hybrid Model
BMW has launched the fourth-generation of the X3 crossover, adding more efficiency and better performance. Its powertrain portfolio will include a latest-generation plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system in the X3 30e model. This powertrain can achieve up to 56 miles of all-electric driving.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Wins Exhibition Class at Pikes Peak
Three Hyundai Ioniq 5 N vehicles participated in the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb to demonstrate their electric performance. The Ioniq 5 N TA Spec won the exhibition class with a record of 9 minutes, 30 seconds while the standard Ioniq 5 N model finished in 10 minutes, 49 seconds.
F-150 Lightning SuperTruck Claims King of the Mountain at Pikes Peak
The Ford Performance F-150 Lightning SuperTruck made the fastest run of all 61 competitors at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Driven by Romain Dumas, the Lightning finished with an 8:53.553 time. This marks the second year Ford has entered an electric vehicle into the Pikes Peak competition.
Kia Adds Hybrid Powertrain to Carnival Minivan
Kia has announced a hybrid powertrain and pricing for the 2025 Carnival MPV. The new design for the van includes hybrid models that begin at about $40,500 MSRP. The Carnival joins the Toyota Sienna and the Chrysler Pacifica PHEV as electrified options in the minivan space.
Volkswagen Updates Jetta and Jetta GLI Models for 2025
Volkswagen has announced new styling and content updates for the 2025 model year Jetta. New exterior, interior, and technology changes bring a mid-cycle refresh to the car. The manual transmission remains available.
New 4th-Gen Continental GT Speed Is Most Power Roadgoing Bentley Ever
Bentley Motors has revealed the fourth generation of the Continental GT Speed supercar. Its powertrain includes an all-new 782PS, 1000Nm Ultra Performance Hybrid system with 50 miles of all-electric range and a 3.1-second 0-60 mph sprint time. Top speed is set at 208 mph.
Jeep Wagoneer S Launch Edition Makes First Public Appearance
The all-electric Jeep Wagoneer S in its Launch Edition package debuted to the public at the Rocket Mortgage Classic in Detroit. The event, which runs until June 30, is the first time the new battery electric Wagoneer has been shown to the public. It is slated to hit showrooms later this year as a 2025 model.
Rivian, Volkswagen Reach Joint Venture Agreement
Rivian and Volkswagen intend to form a 50/50 joint venture to create next-generation electrical and electronic architecture for electric vehicles. The partnership is anticipated to accelerate software development for the companies. The plan includes up to $5B of investment into Rivian by VW.
2025 BMW M5 Introduced For 7th Generation With New M Hybrid Drive
The all-new BMW M5 will feature a 717 horsepower hybrid system that achieves 0-60mph sprints in 3.4 seconds and an all-electric range of 25 miles per charge. Top speed is 190 mph in the M Driver’s Package model.
