Posts

V8s are coming back!

Image
  As car enthusiasts, we always feel a bit down every time a cool V8 is replaced with a new, more efficient alternative. This has been the movement for years now. Manufacturers have been shrinking engines and replacing them with turbocharged alternatives; however, things may soon change. The rumble of the V8 is making a comeback and Stellantis is leading the charge. In a surprising turn for an industry heavily focused on electrification and efficiency, Stellantis confirmed in mid-2025 that it will reintroduce   V8 engines   in select upcoming models, including the Ram pickup and performance-oriented vehicles under the   Dodge   and   Jeep   brands. This announcement comes as a bold response to shifting consumer demand and evolving regulatory dynamics that are, ironically, making it easier for V8’s to return to showrooms.   V8 engines    As announced by Stellantis executives, a new generation of Mopar V8 powerplants will debut starting wi...

Tariffs are taking a big toll on US Automakers

Image
  To understand the overall impact that tariffs have on the   US car market , it is important to take into account that all mass-produced vehicles today rely on a global supply chain. This means that even if your vehicle was assembled in the US, it is very likely to have a lot of parts made all over the world. For example, most airbags are made by Autoliv, a Swedish company that manufactures their airbags in China, Mexico and the US. Similarly, Bosch the leading producer of alternators found in a lot of new vehicles, is a German company that sources materials and assembles most of their products overseas. So just because the car is assembled in the US does not make it immune to new   tariffs   placed on goods exported from foreign countries.   US Automakers     On   March 26, 2025,   the Trump administration announced a   25% tariff   on imported vehicles and auto parts, effective April 3. While the   United States-Mexico-Canad...

Why Quality Varies Across Different Car Manufacturers

Image
While a lot of the cars being offered for sale today may feature similar styling and design language, there are distinct differences between under the shiny new exteriors. Understanding these crucial differences can mean the difference whether you end up with a new car that depreciates rapidly and racks up costly repair bills shortly after the factory warranty expires or a car that will remain desirable and require minimal unexpected repairs.   To understand the true difference between modern cars made by various manufacturers, we must explore their individual design and manufacturing philosophies as they shape the quality, reliability and long-term value of the cars they produce.   Car Manufacturers     Cost Cutting VS Reliability & Value   The length some companies go to cut costs when developing new models will vary. While all car manufacturers prioritize some cost cutting measures, some companies do it more than others. Additionally, the way cost cutting...

The all new 2026 Mazda CX-5 Hybrid is Redefining the Future of Hybrid Technology

Image
  Mazda has always had a reputation for making fun to drive cars, but in recent years they have also put a lot of emphasis on developing fuel efficient drivetrains. With the recent announcement of an all new   2026 CX-5 Hybrid , the brand is proving that efficiency and excitement can go hand in hand. This isn’t just another hybrid SUV; it’s Mazda’s first gas-electric CX-5 featuring an all-new hybrid powertrain.   Mazda   has developed this new in-house hybrid system to show that sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing performance.   Mazda CX-5 2026 hybrid     The   Mazda CX-5 2026 hybrid   model will come with a more efficient as well as more powerful drivetrain. Under the hood, the new   CX-5 Hybrid   combines a 2.5-liter SkyActiv-G engine with an electric motor and a 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, producing a combined 225 horsepower (HP). That is 38HP more than the standard naturally aspirated model. That’s plenty of punch for passi...

How to get a custom license plate in your state

Image
  In every U.S. state,   license plates   do more than just identify vehicles; they reflect the unique local law enforcement needs and history. With some restrictions, most states will allow you to personalize license plates. Personalized license plates are often referred to as “ vanity plates ” and they allow   vehicle owners   to display numbers, words or phrases of their choosing.   license plates     New York   was the first state to require   license plates   in 1901, though in the earliest days drivers were responsible for making their own plates—usually out of leather, wood or metal. By 1918, license plates became standardized, with all states adopting some form of government-issued plates. However, owners are still able to select specialty plates with marks and symbols promoting causes or displaying affiliations, supporting everything from military service to environmental conservation. Eventually, this expanded into allowin...