The hybrid-only crossover's supply issues persist, despite Toyota's overall US sales being up this year.

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At Colonial Toyota in Milford, Connecticut, owner Bobby Crabtree said his lot is only about one-third full, with room for 250 more vehicles.

Customers Nancy and Ira Berman ordered their RAV4 in March and are only now preparing to take delivery, six months later.

"The wait was a slight annoyance," Nancy Berman told CNBC, noting they had other Toyotas to drive in the meantime.

Production Ramp-Up and Supply Constraints

Toyota admitted supplies would be tight at launch, with initial units coming from Japan and Canada due to retooling at its Kentucky plant.

Japanese exports were also affected by the conflict in the Middle East, further squeezing availability.

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Kentucky is now producing RAV4s, but the gradual ramp-up means dealers haven't received their usual volumes.

Earlier this summer, some dealers measured RAV4 inventory in hours, and one California store reportedly had over 800 customers waiting.

The tight inventory has cost Toyota tens of thousands of potential sales this year.

Despite the shortages, demand remains strong, with nearly 480,000 RAV4s sold in the US last year, making it the third best-selling vehicle overall.

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The shift to hybrid-only power comes as gas prices have skyrocketed, and hybrids now account for over 18 percent of US new-vehicle sales, according to JD Power.

The naturally aspirated 5.8-liter V10 now delivers more than 510 horsepower at the wheels.

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The experimental engine was essentially a 4.6-liter Modular V8 stretched by two cylinders.

It was never intended for production, but Ford kept the car and has now restored it.

A Hidden Gem Resurfaces

For years, the prototype sat largely out of sight, occasionally coming close to disappearing altogether.

Now, the Ford Heritage Fleet, with help from the original engineering team, has recommissioned the car.

They replaced electronics and went through systems that hadn't received much attention in decades.

Once everything was working, the only sensible thing was to strap it to a dyno.

The result: more than 510 hp at the wheels, which translates to roughly 600 hp (447 kW) at the crank.

That's a significant increase over the car's output two decades ago.

Contemporary testing reported 426 hp at the wheels and 400 lb-ft (542 Nm) of torque.

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The car also ran the quarter mile in as little as 11.93 seconds at 117 mph (188 km/h).

It's unclear where the power bump comes from, but a modernized intake appears to be fitted. That alone could account for solid gains.

The Engine's Unique Origins

The engine itself is arguably more interesting than the numbers.

Ford had already developed a V10 for trucks, a larger 6.8-liter unit, but that engine and this one share little beyond the brand name.

The experimental 351-cubic-inch (5.8-liter) unit was based on Ford's aluminum 4.6-liter Modular architecture, stretched by two cylinders and featuring DOHC heads derived from the Cobra R.

It was less than four inches (100 mm) longer than the V8.

The team had to use two ECUs because Ford didn't have a single one that could control the odd-firing V10.

A T56 six-speed manual sends power to a 9-inch rear axle.

Despite never making it to production, Ford has kept the car and clearly cared enough to restore it for future generations.

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Perhaps the best part is that nobody has to explain to accounting why they're building it this time.

The British marque released new teaser images showing the hood, front wing, and trunk, hinting at a design reminiscent of the Bentayga.

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Power comes from two electric motors producing 850 hp (634 kW / 862 PS), surpassing the 771 hp Continental GT Speed, which remains the top combustion model.

The Torcal is built on the VW Group's PPE platform, shared with Audi and Porsche EVs, and uses 800V architecture.

Despite the impressive output, Bentley emphasizes that the Torcal is not just about numbers but maintains the brand's signature comfort and feel.

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The drivetrain reportedly combines a front motor from the Audi Q6 e-tron and a rear motor from the Porsche Cayenne Electric, with a 113 kWh battery shared with the Cayenne.

Inside, the Torcal features unique touches like Ombre wood trim, 100% Merino wool upholstery (a world's first), and a curved infotainment system.

Performance includes a sub-3.0-second 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time, a limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h), air suspension, four-wheel steering, and active anti-roll bars.

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The Torcal's focus on comfort over sheer power may set it apart in a market of 1,000 hp+ EVs, but some skeptics remain unconvinced given its shared platform with the Cayenne.

The electric crossover inherits a new LFP battery, faster charging, improved safety features, and Google Gemini AI integration from the recently facelifted Megane E-Tech.

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However, it skips the styling updates, leaving them for later in the product cycle.

Visually, changes are limited to gloss black accents on the bumpers, new 19- and 20-inch alloy wheels, and fresh paint shades: Satin Blue Slate and Exo Galaxy Grey.

Interior and Tech Upgrades

Inside, the openR link infotainment gains Google Gemini AI as a smarter alternative to the Google Assistant.

Users can download apps from the Google Play Store using 2 GB of monthly data offered by Renault for three years.

Other interior upgrades include a magnetic and ventilated wireless charging pad, and more sustainable upholstery options.

Techno models feature PET fabrics with over 95% recycled yarn, Esprit Alpine editions gain a spectral titanium finish made from 75% recycled plastic, and top Iconic trims receive cubic grey accents or optional light grey with genuine lime wood.

The safety suite inherits the Megane’s updated in-car monitoring camera, which tracks driver fatigue and enables driver recognition for loading presets.

It also benefits from more sophisticated ADAS, including Multi Target tracking, improved lane positioning at speeds up to 70 km/h, Emergency Stop Assist, and a smarter predictive eco-driving function.

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New Batteries and Longer Range

Under the skin, the Scenic E-Tech borrows the LFP battery introduced by the Megane E-Tech during its mid-lifecycle update, combined with a carryover front-mounted electric motor producing 220 hp (164 kW / 223 PS).

The 67 kWh Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery of the Comfort Range variant has a cell-to-pack architecture and delivers up to 467 km (290 miles) of WLTP range, which is 37 km (23 miles) more than its NMC predecessor.

It supports 165 kW fast charging, taking it from 15-80% in 24 minutes, or 25% faster than before.

The larger 89 kWh Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery pack, exclusive to the Scenic E-Tech Long Range, has also been upgraded, gaining 2 kWh in capacity and stretching the WLTP range by 17 km (11 miles) to 642 km (399 miles).

This unit is compatible with 150 kW fast charging, replenishing 15-80% in 28 minutes.

Pricing and Availability

The updated Renault Scenic E-Tech Electric is available to order in France starting at €38,750 ($44,900) for the 89 kWh Long Range model in the Techno trim.

The cheaper 67 kWh Comfort Range version will arrive in the coming months, priced from €31,750 ($36,800).

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The electric crossover is still being manufactured at Renault’s ElectriCity facility in Douai, France, with electric motors supplied by the Cléon plant in Normandy.

However, the Brazilian model starts at $16,000, more than triple its Indian counterpart's price.

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The facelift is the second major update for the Kwid since its 2016 debut.

It brings the design closer to Renault's current language with a redesigned front bumper, slimmer grille, and new skid plate.

Interior Upgrades and Trim Levels

Inside, the South American Kwid gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a 7-inch digital cluster, along with new climate vents and a fresh steering wheel emblem.

The entry-level Evolution trim, however, lacks the screen and color accents.

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The range includes the mid-level Techno and the top-spec Outsider, which adds roof rails, body cladding, and 14-inch two-tone alloys.

Mechanicals and Pricing Gap

Under the skin, the Kwid retains the aging CMF-A platform and a 1.0-liter three-cylinder flex-fuel engine producing 68 hp on gasoline and 71 hp on ethanol.

A five-speed manual is the only transmission.

In Brazil, prices range from R$ 82,790 ($16,000) for the Evolution to R$ 91,890 ($17,800) for the Outsider.

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In India, the updated Kwid costs between Rs 4.53 lakh ($4,700) and Rs 5.61 lakh ($5,900), thanks to local manufacturing.

According to Automotive News, Ford has kept developing the unusual variant after showing it to dealers in 2024.

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The automaker hasn't publicly acknowledged the project, so details should be treated with caution.

Early reports described a V8 Mustang with all-wheel drive, a 10-speed automatic, raised ride height, underbody protection, and long-travel suspension.

None of these specifications have been confirmed by Ford, and changes are possible between a dealer preview and production.

A Shift from Rear-Wheel Drive

If the all-wheel-drive claim proves true, it would mark a major departure, as every current gas-powered Mustang sends power to the rear wheels only.

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The Baja name hints at its intended mission, similar to the Porsche 911 Dakar or Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato.

It would be a performance coupe with extra clearance, tougher suspension, and protection for dirt roads and desert trails.

Ford has shown willingness to expand successful nameplates, as seen with the Mustang Mach-E and the upcoming Bronco Filson.

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In that context, a lifted Mustang Baja doesn't seem out of place.

This approach mirrors Toyota's decision with the Camry, prioritizing cost efficiency as mid-size sedan sales decline.

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Design Updates

The facelifted K5 will retain its fastback roofline but adopt Kia's 'Opposites United' design language.

Expect a new front fascia with geometric lower intake, color-coded inlays, and contrasting black trim.

New alloy wheel designs and curvier quarter windows enhance the side profile, while the rear gains a full-width taillight bar.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the K5 gets a redesigned dashboard featuring Hyundai Motor Group's latest Pleos Connect infotainment system.

The new system replaces the current ccNX interface with a large central screen and AI-integrated software.

A redesigned steering wheel, consolidated column controls, and a column-mounted shifter free up front storage space.

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Platform and Powertrain

The K5 will continue on the existing DL3 platform, with revised suspension and steering tuning for improved dynamics.

Hyundai Motor Group's latest TMED-II hybrid system will be offered, featuring a 1.6-liter turbo engine producing around 240 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.

A 6-speed transmission sends power to the front wheels, with e-AWD available as an option.

Conventional gasoline engines remain available in some markets, while North America likely keeps the 290-hp 2.5-liter turbo in GT models.

Rivals and Launch

The K5 will continue to compete with the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata, among others.

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An official debut is expected later this year or early 2027, marking the final iteration of the current K5.

The 2026 U. S.

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Tech Experience Index (TXI) surveyed 68,084 owners of new 2026 model-year vehicles after 90 days of ownership.

The study examined 40 technologies, covering comfort, convenience, connectivity, driver assistance, EVs, and smart vehicle features. Surprisingly, simple features that work seamlessly scored highest in owner satisfaction.

Smart ignition, which automatically starts and stops the vehicle without needing a key, delivered the highest overall satisfaction with just 2.4 problems per 100 vehicles.

Smart climate control also performed well, generating relatively few complaints.

Passenger Screens Fail to Impress

In contrast, passenger screens—often optional and showcased at new-car debuts—fared poorly.

They recorded 21.3 problems per 100 vehicles, and 35% of owners admitted they never even tried using them.

Only 6% reported using the passenger display every time they drove.

More advanced driver assistance systems didn't automatically lead to happier owners either.

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Conventional Level 2 systems requiring hands on the wheel beat more advanced Level 2+ hands-free systems in execution and overall experience, despite the latter having slightly fewer reported problems.

Cadillac and Hyundai Lead Rankings

Despite the grumbling, there were winners.

Cadillac topped the premium innovation rankings with 641 points out of 1,000, ahead of Genesis at 559 and BMW at 524.

Hyundai scored 524 to win the mass-market category for the seventh consecutive year, with GMC and Kia tied behind at 470.

Individual awards reinforced the theme.

Camera mirrors won for the Cadillac Escalade and Toyota Tundra, while blind-spot cameras, digital keys, one-pedal driving, and an EV charging scheduler also collected trophies.

None sounds especially sci-fi, and perhaps that's the point.

Drivers don't hate technology; they just prefer the kind that quietly makes life easier.

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This poses a challenge for automakers and marketers who need to convince customers to upgrade to the latest gadgets.

The idea suggests that costumes, darkness, and crowds could provide cover for disabling or damaging the devices.

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However, no clear leader or organized events have emerged, making it more of a viral concept than a coordinated movement.

Privacy Concerns Behind the Backlash

Privacy advocates argue that the cameras violate the Fourth Amendment by recording detailed travel habits of innocent people.

There have also been cases of police misuse and known security vulnerabilities with the cameras.

Flock says it has deployed over 120,000 cameras across 49 states, logging plates, locations, and vehicle details.

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Despite new safeguards, the backlash against widespread plate-reader surveillance continues.

Some citizens have already been arrested for vandalism against the cameras.

The viral idea may have started on Facebook around August 7 before gaining traction through larger accounts.

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While Halloween vandalism is not a constructive solution, the episode highlights how ALPR brands have lost control of the conversation.

A patent image filed in India may show the production version ahead of its debut.

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The boxy design borrows cues from both the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler.

It embraces Hyundai's 'Art of Steel' design language but is more brutal and utilitarian than its road-going SUVs.

Up front, a bluff hood meets a full-width panel with small rectangular headlights and vertical LED signatures.

A substantial lower grille, exposed recovery points, and a skid plate sit below.

In profile, the Boulder looks like a futuristic Mars Rover with boxed wheelarches, chunky cladding, and slab-sided doors.

It rides on huge 37-inch tires.

The rear is stubby and upright, retaining the concept's external-mount spare wheel and roll-down rear glass.

Rounded A-pillars near the roof and contrasting rear pillar trim add visual intrigue.

Interior and Technology

While no patent images of the interior have surfaced, it will likely mirror the concept's aesthetic. Expect a broad horizontal dash with exposed structural elements and chunky switchgear.

Five- or seven-seat configurations are likely, with an emphasis on durability rather than premium fit-out.

The concept's four configurable displays may be replaced by a large central screen running Pleos Connect.

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The Android Automotive-based system includes connected navigation, an app marketplace, OTA updates, and Gleo AI voice assistance.

Physical controls would be retained for low-range, differential locks, and terrain mode settings.

Platform and Powertrains

Hyundai has confirmed the Boulder uses a body-on-frame architecture made from US-produced steel.

Core details remain under wraps, but it may share hardware with the Kia Tasman, though official messaging points to a new US-focused program.

Likely powertrains for North America include a 330 hp 2.5-liter turbocharged petrol-electric hybrid, a 400 hp plug-in hybrid, and fully electric options.

Other markets could get the Tasman's 207 hp 2.2-liter turbo diesel with an 8-speed auto.

Off-road equipment will include four-wheel drive with front and rear diff lockers, low-range gearing, independent front suspension with a solid-axle rear, and tank-turn functionality.

Rivals and Reveal

If approved, the Boulder would compete with the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, Toyota 4Runner, and Land Rover Defender.

Hyundai has committed to bringing 36 all-new and refreshed vehicles to America by 2030.

Reports suggest it could be built at Hyundai Group's HMGMA plant in Georgia, where the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq are currently produced.

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The patent activity indicates a body-on-frame SUV is on the way.