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Articles by Thanos Pappas
Dubai Police Adds Hybrid Lamborghini To Supercar Fleet
The Dubai Police fleet might already look like a high-profile collection of exotics, but it keeps getting updated with fresh metal. The latest to join the pack is the Lamborghini Temerario, following examples of the Urus, Huracan, Aventador, and Revuelto, which have already been dressed in the colors of Dubai. The handover of the electrified supercar is part of the collaboration between the local authorities and Lamborghini Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Dubai Police Adds Hybrid Lamborghini To Supercar Fleet
The Dubai Police fleet might already look like a high-profile collection of exotics, but it keeps getting updated with fresh metal. The latest to join the pack is the Lamborghini Temerario, following examples of the Urus, Huracan, Aventador, and Revuelto, which have already been dressed in the colors of Dubai. The handover of the electrified supercar is part of the collaboration between the local authorities and Lamborghini Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Audi's Hottest Electric Wagon Spied Testing
The camouflaged prototype features a more aggressive bodykit compared to the S6 Avant E-Tron The new Audi RS5 Avant might be getting loads of attention from the automotive press while stealing the hearts of buyers in Europe, but it won't be the only hot wagon in the lineup. Besides the new generation of the RS6 Avant which is expected to debut next year with a potent plug-in hybrid powertrain, there will also be a slightly more tamed fully electric alternative based on the S6 Avant E-tron.
Audi's Hottest Electric Wagon Spied Testing
The camouflaged prototype features a more aggressive bodykit compared to the S6 Avant E-Tron The new Audi RS5 Avant might be getting loads of attention from the automotive press while stealing the hearts of buyers in Europe, but it won't be the only hot wagon in the lineup. Besides the new generation of the RS6 Avant which is expected to debut next year with a potent plug-in hybrid powertrain, there will also be a slightly more tamed fully electric alternative based on the S6 Avant E-tron.
Ford's Coolest Street Truck Gains Gold Rims And Racing Stripes, But You Still Can't Have It
We're definitely booking our tickets to the United Kingdom right now The stars of the Ford Ranger lineup are the dune-conquering Raptor and the ultra-capable Super Duty, but Europeans have access to something entirely different. The Ranger MS-RT is a street truck with a lowered stance and a custom body kit, now available in Champion Edition spec with a motorsport-inspired treatment.
The Ridges In Your Pickup Truck Bed Have Multiple Purposes
Pickups come in all shapes and sizes depending on where you live and what you use them for. However, almost all share one distinct feature: corrugated ridges lining the floor of the exposed cargo area. My late grandfather had a Datsun 1200 pickup, and I remember using those grooves as imaginary road lanes for my matchbox-scale cars. But as I grew up, I realized they weren't designed for that role.
The Ridges In Your Pickup Truck Bed Have Multiple Purposes
Pickups come in all shapes and sizes depending on where you live and what you use them for. However, almost all share one distinct feature: corrugated ridges lining the floor of the exposed cargo area. My late grandfather had a Datsun 1200 pickup, and I remember using those grooves as imaginary road lanes for my matchbox-scale cars. But as I grew up, I realized they weren't designed for that role.
Ford's Coolest Street Truck Gains Gold Rims And Racing Stripes, But You Still Can't Have It
We're definitely booking our tickets to the United Kingdom right now The stars of the Ford Ranger lineup are the dune-conquering Raptor and the ultra-capable Super Duty, but Europeans have access to something entirely different. The Ranger MS-RT is a street truck with a lowered stance and a custom body kit, now available in Champion Edition spec with a motorsport-inspired treatment.
Mazda's Future EV Is Hiding Under A Chopped CX-90 Body
The new EV will run on a dedicated platform which underpins this chopped up CX-90 test mule Mazda might have introduced the 6e sedan (EZ-6) and the CX-6e SUV (EZ-60) in China and other global markets, but its North American lineup doesn't include any zero-emission offerings following the discontinuation of the MX-30. This could change over the next few years, as the automaker is working on an in-house-developed EV with a mule making a new spy appearance.
Why Do Some Highway Stripes Alternate Between Black And White?
There's more to it than you think If you have driven on highways across the United States, you may have spotted an unusual detail on the road surface. Instead of the traditional white lines, lane dividers sometimes feature a two-tone pattern. At first glance, one could easily dismiss the alternating black and white stripes as a correction over older markings, but in reality they are a deliberate design known as contrast pavement marking.
Jeep Could Go Back To Basics With A Modern Willys
Jeep is exploring a modern Willys revival for European markets. It could take the form of a low-cost EV targeting Chinese rivals. Jeep will expand its European lineup to six models by 2030. Jeep might not be part of the massive Stellantis stand at the Paris Motor Show, but it still managed to steal our attention with an unexpected announcement. The European chief of the American brand hinted at a new project inspired by the spirit of the iconic Willys Jeep.
Jeep Could Go Back To Basics With A Modern Willys
Jeep is exploring a modern Willys revival for European markets. It could take the form of a low-cost EV targeting Chinese rivals. Jeep will expand its European lineup to six models by 2030. Jeep might not be part of the massive Stellantis stand at the Paris Motor Show, but it still managed to steal our attention with an unexpected announcement. The European chief of the American brand hinted at a new project inspired by the spirit of the iconic Willys Jeep.
Alfa Romeo Teased A Sexy Sedan, But It’s Actually Working On Something Else Original
Alfa Romeo’s Cuorerosso concept doesn’t preview a new Giulia. Its styling language will influence a C-SUV set to debut in 2028. A Giulietta successor and a new exotic will follow further ahead. The Alfa Romeo Cuorerosso concept is one of the highlights of the 2026 Paris Motor Show, making us dream of a next generation Giulia sedan with exotic proportions and a hybrid V6 powertrain.
The Renault 4 Might Be The Best Retro EV Out There | Review
PROS ›› Styling, handling, equipment CONS ›› Limited highway range, minor ergonomic quirks One would think that Europe has enough small SUVs to satisfy the growing demand, but every once in a while, a new addition to the segment proves there’s always room for one more. A fitting example is the Renault 4 E-Tech, an EV-only alternative to the Clio-based Captur with a retro-modern design and Renault 5 E-Tech underpinnings.
The Renault 4 Might Be The Best Retro EV Out There | Review
PROS ›› Styling, handling, equipment CONS ›› Limited highway range, minor ergonomic quirks One would think that Europe has enough small SUVs to satisfy the growing demand, but every once in a while, a new addition to the segment proves there’s always room for one more. A fitting example is the Renault 4 E-Tech, an EV-only alternative to the Clio-based Captur with a retro-modern design and Renault 5 E-Tech underpinnings.
New Smart #2 Is Here To Reclaim City Streets
Smart revealed the all-new #2 at the Paris Motor Show. The two-seater EV measures 2,746 mm (108.1 in) long. It rides on a Geely architecture and has a 180-mile range. Thirty years ago, Smart introduced its first model, later known as the Fortwo. The iconic two-seater city car was discontinued in 2024, but it finally got a direct successor with the all-new Smart #2. The production version of the EV debuted at the Paris Motor Show, six months after the Smart Concept #2.
New Smart #2 Is Here To Reclaim City Streets
Smart revealed the all-new #2 at the Paris Motor Show. The two-seater EV measures 2,746 mm (108.1 in) long. It rides on a Geely architecture and has a 180-mile range. Thirty years ago, Smart introduced its first model, later known as the Fortwo. The iconic two-seater city car was discontinued in 2024, but it finally got a direct successor with the all-new Smart #2. The production version of the EV debuted at the Paris Motor Show, six months after the Smart Concept #2.
Fiat Multiplay Is A Pickup, An SUV, And A Minivan Original
Fiat has launched the new Multiplay concept in Paris. It combines elements from SUVs, MPVs, and pickups. It has a family-friendly cabin in the spirit of the Multipla. Fiat Multipla fans rejoice, the spirit of the polarizing minivan is back in a quirky concept. The Multiplay is a modular vehicle that transforms from a family-friendly SUV with minivan traits into a lifestyle pickup. The “3-in-1” concept takes center stage at the Paris Motor Show.
Honda is finally getting a ladder-frame pickup thanks to Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi could supply Honda with a rebadged Triton. The ladder-frame truck will be produced in Thailand. Southeast Asian rollout is reportedly planned for 2028. Honda will reportedly introduce a new ladder-frame pickup based on the Mitsubishi Triton with production taking place in Thailand. The yet unnamed model is expected to debut in 2028 or later, marking the first OEM partnership between Honda and Mitsubishi.
This Mini Coupe Clone Is Actually A Suzuki Swift Original
An Indonesian builder turned a Suzuki Swift into a Mini Coupe. It features custom bodywork, white wheels, and leatherette interior. The unique vehicle is listed on Facebook Marketplace for $7,200. Replica builders usually attempt to emulate multi-million-dollar supercars, but every now and then, someone turns their attention to more humble models. A great example is the pictured Mini Coupe impersonator from Indonesia, which started life as a Suzuki Swift.
Honda Is Finally Getting A Ladder-Frame Pickup Thanks To Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi could supply Honda with a rebadged Triton. The ladder-frame truck will be produced in Thailand. Southeast Asian rollout is reportedly planned for 2028. Honda will reportedly introduce a new ladder-frame pickup based on the Mitsubishi Triton with production taking place in Thailand. The yet unnamed model is expected to debut in 2028 or later, marking the first OEM partnership between Honda and Mitsubishi.
Alpine’s Hot Hatch Just Became More Stylish With A Simple Trick
Alpine introduced a new Collection trim for the electric A290. Body-colored wheel arches replace standard black cladding. Available with 180 hp or 220 hp, it also gets an exclusive interior. The Alpine A290 was introduced in 2024 as a hotter version of the Renault 5 E-Tech with a custom bodykit and more powerful electric powertrain options. Two years later, Alpine has introduced the A290 Collection trim, refining the exterior design while adding special touches inside the cabin.
Alpine’s Hot Hatch Just Became More Stylish With A Simple Trick
Alpine introduced a new Collection trim for the electric A290. Body-colored wheel arches replace standard black cladding. Available with 180 hp or 220 hp, it also gets an exclusive interior. The Alpine A290 was introduced in 2024 as a hotter version of the Renault 5 E-Tech with a custom bodykit and more powerful electric powertrain options. Two years later, Alpine has introduced the A290 Collection trim, refining the exterior design while adding special touches inside the cabin.
Honda Elevate Gains Rugged Face And Premium Features, Still Starts From $12,000 Original
Honda launches a facelifted version of the Elevate in India. The SUV gains a redesigned grille and rear ventilated seats. It is priced between Rs 11.80-18.40 lakh ($12,200-$19,000). Honda has introduced a mid-lifecycle update for its entry-level SUV in India, focused on mild styling tweaks and new interior features. The facelifted Honda Elevate stands out thanks to its rugged grille with integrated LEDs, and the newly available ventilated front and rear seats.
VW’s Largest Camper Drops Prices, Gains Solar Panels And Rugged Dune Special Edition
VW updates the Grand California in the U.K. making it cheaper. An optional Off-Grid pack adds solar panels and lithium batteries. The Dune Special Edition brings rugged styling and extra gear. Volkswagen is no stranger to camping enthusiasts, treating them with the California lineup. For 2027, the German brand has turned its attention to the flagship Grand California, introducing solar panels, fresh interior trim, and a new special edition, while reducing prices across the lineup.
VW’s Largest Camper Drops Prices, Gains Solar Panels And Rugged Dune Special Edition
VW updates the Grand California in the U.K. making it cheaper. An optional Off-Grid pack adds solar panels and lithium batteries. The Dune Special Edition brings rugged styling and extra gear. Volkswagen is no stranger to camping enthusiasts, treating them with the California lineup. For 2027, the German brand has turned its attention to the flagship Grand California, introducing solar panels, fresh interior trim, and a new special edition, while reducing prices across the lineup.
Hardcore Ferrari 296 Challenge Stradale To Ditch Hybrid For Pure V6 Thrills
Ferrari is testing a camouflaged 296 prototype in Germany. The supercar might revive the Challenge Stradale name. It could use a non-hybrid twin-turbo V6 and sharper aero. The Ferrari 296 series currently includes the standard GTB, the open-air GTS, the hardcore Speciale, and the track-only GT Modificata, but the Italian brand thinks there’s room for more. A track-focused ICE-only variant is being tested, and will likely bring back a popular moniker from the past.
Hardcore Ferrari 296 Challenge Stradale To Ditch Hybrid For Pure V6 Thrills
Ferrari is testing a camouflaged 296 prototype in Germany. The supercar might revive the Challenge Stradale name. It could use a non-hybrid twin-turbo V6 and sharper aero. The Ferrari 296 series currently includes the standard GTB, the open-air GTS, the hardcore Speciale, and the track-only GT Modificata, but the Italian brand thinks there’s room for more. A track-focused ICE-only variant is being tested, and will likely bring back a popular moniker from the past.
Jeep Shows Mystery Box Ahead Of Paris, But Don’t Get Your Hopes Up
Jeep teased a mysterious shipping container ahead of Paris. Still, the official website lists no new debuts at the Jeep stand. Jeep’s European lineup will expand to six models by 2030. Jeep is heading to the 2026 Paris Motor Show and, to hype things up, it shared a photo of a mysterious shipping container inviting us “to discover the next chapter in the brand’s evolution”.
Jeep Shows Mystery Box Ahead Of Paris, But Don’t Get Your Hopes Up
Jeep teased a mysterious shipping container ahead of Paris. Still, the official website lists no new debuts at the Jeep stand. Jeep’s European lineup will expand to six models by 2030. Jeep is heading to the 2026 Paris Motor Show and, to hype things up, it shared a photo of a mysterious shipping container inviting us “to discover the next chapter in the brand’s evolution”.
Facelifted BMW M5 Spied Hauling Its Heavy Body Around The Nurburgring
Fresh spy shots show a camouflaged M5 sedan during testing. The mid-lifecycle update will add Neue Klasse styling and tech. The PHEV powertrain with 717 hp will likely carry over unchanged. The BMW M5 is getting ready for its Life Cycle Impulse, with camouflaged prototypes going through the last stages of development testing and fine-tuning at the Nürburgring. Our spies sent us fresh shots of the facelifted M5 sedan, hinting at significant exterior and interior updates.
Facelifted BMW M5 Spied Hauling Its Heavy Body Around The Nurburgring
Fresh spy shots show a camouflaged M5 sedan during testing. The mid-lifecycle update will add Neue Klasse styling and tech. The PHEV powertrain with 717 hp will likely carry over unchanged. The BMW M5 is getting ready for its Life Cycle Impulse, with camouflaged prototypes going through the last stages of development testing and fine-tuning at the Nürburgring. Our spies sent us fresh shots of the facelifted M5 sedan, hinting at significant exterior and interior updates.
New Audi RS5 Is A Runaway Hit Even Before Its Global Rollout Original
The new Audi RS5 had a very successful market launch. Orders in Europe are “nearly twice as high as expected.” Production allocation for 2026 has already been sold out. When Audi introduced the new generation of the RS5 in February 2026, serving as a rival to the BMW M3 while replacing both the discontinued RS5 Coupe and the RS4 Avant. It now seems that this strategy was right, with the model being a sales hit in Europe as its availability expands to global markets.
Suzuki’s Smallest EV Is A Kei Car With A Sub-$10k Price Tag Original
The Suzuki eSky debuts in Japan with factory styling packages. It offers 193 miles (310 km) of range from a 26 kWh battery. The EV starts at under $10k if you account for local subsidies. Suzuki has introduced its first fully electric passenger kei car in Japan ahead of its market launch in Europe and the UK. The all-new Suzuki eSky brings an impressive range for the size of its battery, aided by its lightweight design and efficient e-Axle.
Ford Shows Its First Wolftrak-branded SUV Original
2027 Ford Everest lineup gains new Wolftrak trim in Australia. It features vibrant Zest Green accents and a Traction Green shade. The Ranger-based SUV is available with turbodiesel powertrains. The Ford Everest is a ladder-frame SUV based on the Ranger pickup which is not offered in the US but flourishes in markets like Australia. The lineup of the model has now been expanded with the Wolftrak trim, adding a touch of color to the exterior and interior design alongside standard towing equipment.
Can Pixels Beat Nostalgia? We Compared Nissan’s New Sub-€20k EV To Its Renault Twin Up Close Original
We checked the Nissan Pixo and Renault Twingo twins up close. Pixelated Japanese styling can’t match Renault’s retro charm. Both share an 81 hp electric motor and a 27.5 kWh battery pack. The race for affordable urban EVs in Europe has entered high gear, with local automakers trying their best to compete with Chinese imports. Renault revisited the Twingo’s winning formula with its latest A-Segment hatchback, which spawned the closely-related Nissan Pixo and the new Dacia Spring EV.
VW ID. Buzz And Transporter Gain Signature Editions With GTI Flair Original
VW introduced a Signature Edition pack for its commercial vans. The €6,495 kit adds carbon-look aero, new wheels, and eco-leather. It’s available in the Netherlands and doesn’t affect their taxable value. Sporty vans are trending, with nearly every single automaker offering some sort of optional package or special edition inspired by the aftermarket tuning scene.
Mazda is working on a new midsize pickup
Mazda confirms a next-gen BT-50 pickup is under development. It could feature sharper styling based on shared underpinnings. The new midsize truck is expected to hit the road around 2028. The Mazda BT-50 might not be as popular as its Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger rivals, but it remains an important model for the Japanese automaker. The increased competition in the midsize pickup segment has prompted Mazda to consider a new generation, set to arrive over the next couple of years.
This Skoda Sedan Looks Like A Baby Octavia But Starts From $10k
The Skoda Slavia has received a mid-lifecycle update in India. It gains a new automatic gearbox, sharper looks and more tech. The updated subcompact sedan is priced from ₹9,99,900 ($10,400). The Octavia might be the most popular sedan in the Skoda stable, but it’s not the only one. The smaller Skoda Slavia which has been on sale in India since late 2021, has received a facelift for 2026 keeping it fresh against rivals.
This Skoda Sedan Looks Like A Baby Octavia But Starts From $10k
The Skoda Slavia has received a mid-lifecycle update in India. It gains a new automatic gearbox, sharper looks and more tech. The updated subcompact sedan is priced from ₹9,99,900 ($10,400). The Octavia might be the most popular sedan in the Skoda stable, but it’s not the only one. The smaller Skoda Slavia which has been on sale in India since late 2021, has received a facelift for 2026 keeping it fresh against rivals.
Alpine’s Latest Creation Has Pop-Down Headlights Original
Alpine teased the PS1 concept ahead of its Paris debut on Oct 12. The Project Special 1 features retro-inspired pop-down headlights. It could preview an A310 revival in the form of an electric 2+2 GT. Alpine fans might be excited to see the sculpture of the next-gen A110 sportscar in Paris Motor Show, but the company has another ace up its sleeve. A new concept car dubbed PS1 will be unveiled at the same event, likely previewing a future production model.
Mazda Is Working On A New Midsize Pickup Original
Mazda confirms a next-gen BT-50 pickup is under development. It could feature sharper styling based on shared underpinnings. The new midsize truck is expected to hit the road around 2028. The Mazda BT-50 might not be as popular as its Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger rivals, but it remains an important model for the Japanese automaker. The increased competition in the midsize pickup segment has prompted Mazda to consider a new generation, set to arrive over the next couple of years.
Citroen is reviving the iconic 2CV as an affordable EV
Citroen teases a new 2CV concept, ahead of its debut on October 11. The modern reincarnation of the iconic French car will be electric. A production version is expected in 2028, with a sub-€15k price tag. Citroen is ready to shake up the Paris Motor Show with the return of the legendary 2CV. The model is back after a 36-year hiatus, in the form of a fully electric city car with styling references to the original and a focus on affordability.
The World’s Lowest Land Rover Hides An Air-Cooled Secret Underneath Original
Custom build merges a Land Rover body with VW underpinnings. Features a shortened chassis, four-way air ride, and Porsche wheels. Currently offered on eBay with a £15,000 ($20,000) asking price. Classic Land Rovers and later Defender models have been the subject of various tuning and restomod projects over the past few years, with most of them respecting their rugged character.
Citroen Is Reviving The Iconic 2CV As An Affordable EV Original
Citroen teases a new 2CV concept, ahead of its debut on October 11. The modern reincarnation of the iconic French car will be electric. A production version is expected in 2028, with a sub-€15k price tag. Citroen is ready to shake up the Paris Motor Show with the return of the legendary 2CV. The model is back after a 36-year hiatus, in the form of a fully electric city car with styling references to the original and a focus on affordability.
It Looks Like A Toyota Minivan But It’s Actually An EV With 5 HP Original
Pakistan’s Nora EV reveals the Metro, a small Toyota-styled MPV. It combines Alphard and Vellfire design with a tiny 5 hp motor. Available in EV and EREV versions, it will start from under $11k The Toyota Alphard and Vellfire are the best selling full-size minivans in the Japanese market, but their popularity expands to other regions. Pakistani automaker Nora EV has unveiled a new zero-emission model with Toyota-inspired styling and a subcompact footprint.
Lexus LX finally gets F Sport treatment in Japan, plus handling tweaks
Lexus updates the LX flagship SUV in Japan adding F Sport trim. Suspension and steering tuning have been improved across the lineup. Japanese pricing ranges between ¥15.6-22.1 million ($98,900-140,100). Lexus has introduced a few updates for the LX in its home market, with Japanese buyers finally getting access to the F Sport trim that has been available in the US and Middle East since the debut of the current generation in late 2021.
The Beauty And The Stainless Beast: Alfa Romeo 8C Hangs Out With Tesla Cybertruck Original
A Tesla Cybertruck parked right next to a gorgeous Alfa Romeo. The absurd pairing was spotted at the Festivalcar event in Italy. The duo was joined by a large number of sought-after classics. They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder but in the automotive world, we have some objective truths. For example, the Tesla Cybertruck is one of the most polarizing designs of our time, while the Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is widely considered as one of the most beautiful production vehicles.
You Can Now Match Your Electric Guitar To Your Land Rover Defender Original
PRS, Land Rover Defender and John Mayer launched special guitars. The instruments use eight shades from the Defender’s color palette. US-made guitars cost $3,200, and overseas SE line is priced at $999. If you are a John Mayer fan who plays the guitar and happens to own a Defender, we’ve got some exciting news for you. PRS Guitars and Land Rover’s Defender sub-brand teamed up with the popular artist to launch the Silver Sky Defender Color Collection.
2027 Peugeot 208 Spied With Sharp Looks, Square Wheel, And New Platform Original
Next Peugeot 208 caught testing in Spain ahead of 2027 debut. Adopts concept-inspired styling Hypersware steer-by-wire tech. It will ride on the new STLA One architecture with electric power. Peugeot is cooking up something special for the small hatchback segment in Europe. A new generation of the 208 will be introduced next year, armed with the latest technology Stellantis has to offer.
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