NGMK produced over 1.5 million ounces of gold in the first half of 2026

Volkswagen has introduced the Amarok V6 Unlimited in Argentina, a special edition restricted to only 500 numbered units. This model signals the end of the current generation of the pickup truck, which has been available on the market since 2010, and precedes the arrival of a new Chinese-origin version, expected in 2027.

Special Edition Details

The reveal took place at the manufacturer's booth during the Rural Exhibition held in Buenos Aires. Production of the acclaimed V6 engine in General Pacheco will be halted until the end of 2026. Based on the top-tier V6 Extreme configuration, the Unlimited will be available at dealerships starting in September, focusing on aesthetic and finishing attributes intended for collectors and enthusiasts of the current architecture.

Technical and Aesthetic Specifications

The exhibited vehicle featured the new Volcán gray color, contrasting with glossy black elements such as bumpers, rearview mirrors, fender flares, and the tailgate. Under the hood, the 3.0 V6 turbodiesel engine maintains its power of 258 hp, capable of temporarily reaching 272 hp in overboost mode, in addition to generating 59.1 kgfm of torque. It is coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and features permanent all-wheel drive.

The Unlimited's visual package includes 20-inch wheels with a darkened finish, as well as black grille and emblems, replacing aluminum platforms with tubular running boards. Inside, the car features leather upholstery with exclusive embroidery and a numbered plaque positioned behind the gear selector, underlining the exclusivity of each unit. In terms of technology, it follows the line's standard, offering a 9-inch multimedia center and driving assistance systems.

Amarok's Legacy and Future

This launch concludes an important cycle for the Argentine industry. Manufactured in General Pacheco since 2010, the Amarok was pioneering as the first mid-size pickup developed by a European automotive conglomerate. It achieved icon status after the introduction of the V6 engine in 2017. During its lifecycle, approximately 800,000 units were produced, with about 60% destined for export to more than 100 countries.

As the current version bids farewell, Volkswagen is developing its successor, internally named Project Patagonia. This new pickup will result from a global collaboration with the Chinese group SAIC and will use the Maxus Interstellar X (also known as Terron 9) as its technical base, being larger than the current Amarok. The project is linked to a US$ 580 million investment in the Pacheco factory, with a commercial launch forecast for the first quarter of 2027.

Honda will discontinue the sale of the Prologue model in the United States after the end of the 2026 model year. This move results in the absence of any fully electric vehicle from the manufacturer in the largest global market, at least temporarily, forcing the company to focus more on hybrid vehicles.

Origin and Partnership with GM

The Prologue was initially introduced as a transition option while Honda worked on its own electric technology. It emerged from an established collaboration with General Motors, a period during which the Japanese manufacturer had promised a billion-dollar investment in electrification. In reality, both the Prologue and the Acura ZDX were variations of the Chevrolet Blazer EV and the Cadillac Lyriq, both built on GM's Ultium platform.

Sales Performance and Decision

The pair of vehicles faced a lukewarm market response. Although the Prologue registered good sales at certain times, the ZDX sold in small quantities and was discontinued even in 2025. Sales data justifies the decision: in 2025, Prologue sales rose by 19.1%, totaling 39,194 units, an increase driven by consumers rushing to obtain the benefit of the federal tax credit before its expiration. However, once the incentive was removed, demand plummeted, registering only 932 registrations in December, representing an 88.6% drop. This decline continued in 2026; in the first half, Honda sold 8,407 electric vehicles, a setback of 48.5% compared to the same period last year, equivalent to approximately 1,400 monthly units.

Restructuring and Electric Future

Due to poor performance, the Prologue became the second best-selling Honda in the country, only behind the Prelude. Sales were so modest that the electric SUV was surpassed by all Acura models still in production, including the RDX, which is also scheduled to be discontinued. This decision is part of a broader reorganization of the company in the electrification sector. In addition to the Acura ZDX, which was discontinued in 2025, Honda also canceled the Series 0 projects (including the 0 Sedan and 0 SUV), the Acura RSX, and Sony Honda Mobility, the electric car brand developed jointly with Sony and responsible for the Afeela.

Customer Support and Hybrid Focus

Honda announced that current Prologue owners will continue to receive full support through the dealership network, covering services, parts, and warranty coverage. This closure signals, for now, the end of the brand's presence in the pure electric segment in the US, given that American consumers continue to show a preference for hybrid models. Despite this, the company has not completely abandoned electrification and continues to develop its own electric vehicle architecture for the coming years.

The cost-benefit of an iPhone is determined by several factors, including the projection of software updates, performance potential, and the price charged in the national market. Previous generations, such as the iPhone 16 and iPhone 15 models, become more advantageous options after subsequent price reductions following each launch, being cited as economical alternatives for 2026.

Review of Available Models

Tecnoblog conducted an analysis of the main iPhones currently on the market to help consumers identify the best combination of specifications and price, detailing the strengths and weaknesses of each Apple smartphone.

Smartphone Highlights

The iPhone 16e was launched to redefine the range of more affordable devices within the Apple ecosystem. This model features the A18 processor and the same 8GB of RAM as higher-end models, promising good performance for multitasking and demanding applications, such as games. Its simplified design includes the return of the classic notch on the screen and a simple rear camera system with a 48-megapixel sensor. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display ensures true colors and intense brightness.

The iPhone 16 offers excellent value for money for those who want to invest slightly less than the newest model while maintaining innovations and contemporary design. It comes equipped with the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM, sufficient to run all of Apple's productivity and smart editing tools with high performance. A major advantage is the 48-megapixel main sensor, coupled with the camera control button, which allows quick adjustments of focus, exposure, and zoom through intuitive gestures. Additionally, the device has long battery life and uses the USB-C port, representing a modern and balanced option at a more competitive retail price.

For those seeking a cutting-edge smartphone at the lowest cost, the iPhone 17 is the main recommendation. Equipped with the new A19 processor, it guarantees excellent processing speed and optimized energy efficiency, allowing complex tasks and multitasking to run smoothly for several years. The basic model now incorporates 120Hz ProMotion technology, present in Pro models, along with 48-megapixel main and ultrawide cameras. The front camera system also features Center Stage for automatic subject framing.

The iPhone 15 Pro remains a notable purchase due to its depreciation in the market. Built from light and durable titanium, it houses the A17 Pro processor, an advanced architecture chip that natively supports console gaming and heavy graphics processing, keeping it at the same performance level as recent releases. Its three-camera system includes a dedicated telephoto lens for distortion-free optical zooms and professional recordings. With a 120Hz ProMotion display, it provides a complete premium experience for a price comparable to a current mid-range model.

Launched in 2023, the iPhone 15 is seen as the ideal balance point for the average user who wants to enter the main Apple line with minimal investment. It features the Dynamic Island interface for dynamic notifications at the top of the screen, the A16 Bionic processor, which offers good thermal stability, and USB-C connectivity, facilitating the use of universal cables. Even without dedicated deep artificial intelligence hardware, the device stands out with a high-resolution 48-megapixel camera and impeccable video stabilization, making it a safe choice for those looking for an updated, beautiful, and fast smartphone at more accessible prices.

Criteria for Choosing in 2026

When deciding which iPhone offers the best cost-benefit in 2026, it is crucial to weigh the available budget, usage profile, and intended period of use. It is recommended to observe some specific technical aspects:

• RAM Memory: Devices with 8GB of RAM (such as iPhone 16e, 16, and 17) are essential to take advantage of the brand's new smart assistance features. However, for use focused on social media, browsing, and basic photography, models with 6GB of RAM still offer good agility.
• Storage: 64GB versions should be avoided if there is a tendency to accumulate many media files and heavy applications. Options starting at 128GB or 256GB provide a greater long-term safety margin, preventing slowdowns and the immediate need for cloud subscriptions.
• Cameras: Only Pro models have a telephoto camera, which is essential for capturing objects with optical zoom and minimal quality loss.
• Apple Intelligence: Apple's AI suite is restricted to iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max models and subsequent generations, being incompatible with models like the iPhone 15.
• Connections: Older models still use the Lightning connector; the standard migrated to USB-C starting with the iPhone 15 line.
• Battery: In used devices, it is essential to check the iPhone's battery health to prevent additional replacement costs.

Considerations on Specific Models

Regarding the iPhone 17 Pro Max, the decision depends on the budget. Although it is one of the best smartphones of 2026, presenting the peak in screen, autonomy, and professional cameras with extended zoom, its retail price tends to be very high. For this reason, standard versions usually offer a better financial return for the consumer.

Purchasing a used iPhone can be advantageous, provided it is done with caution. Display models or pre-owned devices represent good opportunities for savings, but it is essential to check the battery health (preferably above 80% to 85%) and ensure the perfect functioning of all original components, such as Face ID and True Tone screen, before finalizing the purchase.

It is not recommended to buy the iPhone 11 in 2026. Despite having received updates to the latest iOS, the model is over six years old and lacks current technologies such as 5G connectivity, OLED screen, USB-C port, and Apple Intelligence support. Furthermore, it is likely that the current operating system version is the last released for this device.

Similarly, buying the iPhone SE in 2026 is not advised. With the emergence of the iPhone 16e as a modern and affordable entry-level model, older versions of the iPhone SE, with small LCD screens and a physical Home button, have lost relevance for most users seeking larger screens and good battery life.