The Jeep Avenger, the brand's new entry-level model in Brazil, has not yet had its official launch scheduled, but consumers can start making advance reservations. Some dealerships located in São Paulo and the Federal District are already accepting orders upon payment of a deposit, which ranges between R$ 1,000 and R$ 2,000. This amount will be deducted when the vehicle is fully paid for.
Stores in São Paulo that accept the deposit promised to deliver the Avenger within seven days after the launch. In the Federal District, the stipulated period is 30 days. The buyer will take home the smallest model in the Jeep line, which measures 4.08 meters long, 1.77 m wide, 1.53 m high, and has a wheelbase of 2.56 m. Its trunk offers a capacity of 355 liters.
The Avenger will be offered in four configurations: Altitude, Longitude, Sahara, and Limited, all using the Hybrid name and sharing the same mild hybrid propulsion system. This system combines a 1.0 T200 turbo flex engine (adapted from the Fiat Pulse and Fastback) with a 12V electrical system. To align with the new IPI reduction bracket, the unit was adjusted to generate 116 hp and 20.4 kgfm of torque.
Despite being positioned below the Renegade in the Jeep hierarchy, the Avenger should not have a significantly lower cost. While the Renegade starts at R$ 124,990 and goes up to R$ 180,000 in the most complete versions, the estimated price for the Avenger is between R$ 120,000 and R$ 160,000.
The Chevrolet S10, which will soon complete 15 years in Brazil, is being prepared for a new generation. According to information from the Mobiauto website, this new model is expected to be launched in 2029 and its main feature will be the incorporation of a hybrid system. A notable aspect of the project is the return to its North American origin, similar to what happened in the first generation.
The original S10, which arrived in Brazil in 1995, was the second generation of the pickup in the United States and resulted from a collaboration between the American headquarters, GM Brazil, and Isuzu (which used the front end of the Isuzu Hombre). The generational change in the Brazilian market occurred in February 2012, introducing a design developed in Thailand for the global market. The new version will bring back the American Chevrolet Colorado base, resuming a tradition, given that vehicles of this pickup are sold in Brazil.
Although the mechanical details have not yet been revealed, the adoption of a hybrid powertrain is considered certain, given that competitors such as Toyota (with the Hilux) and Ford (with the Ranger) have already confirmed the electrification of their models.
The Ferrari Luce is showing progress as expected, despite initial criticism. Ferrari itself states that it has sold out the initial batch made available in China. Additionally, the Financial Times reported that the first 500 units of the annual target for 2026 have already been sold, meaning the goal was reached in just over two months.
The financial newspaper points out that the most open markets to luxury electric vehicles were crucial to this success, especially China and the audience of large US technology companies. Ferrari had anticipated that the model would not appeal to the traditional consumer, intentionally focusing on an audience that would normally not consider a Ferrari, which seems to have been successful.
It is mentioned that Ferrari will likely pay more attention to these buyers when selecting clients to view future special models. Although the company stated that purchasing the Luce guarantees nothing, such relationships operate under unwritten understandings.
Financial results have not yet been officially disclosed, but Ferrari will need to publish its quarterly reports to shareholders soon, at which time the real scenario will be revealed.
This weekend, Porsche Penske Motorsport will turn the Road America circuit into a historic journey. In the eighth round of the IMSA championship—which will begin its expanded six-hour format in 2026—the official team will use two Porsche 963 prototypes with legendary color schemes honoring a victorious partnership.
Although the current structure of Porsche Penske Motorsport in the GTP class was established in 2023, the collaboration between the German automaker and Roger Penske predates it. For the race in Wisconsin, the Porsche 963 number 6 will display the distinct blue and yellow scheme with red accents and a chrome base, recreating the Sunoco paint used by the Porsche 917/30 in the 1973 Can-Am. This look was immortalized by Mark Donohue, who set the speed record of 355 km/h (221 mph) at the Talladega oval in 1975.
On the other hand, the Porsche 963 number 7 will feature a retro yellow and red look, a tribute to the winning Porsche RS Spyder that dominated the LMP2 class between 2005 and 2008. This paint job, inspired by the classic DHL pattern, refers to the partnership's three-time championship and, above all, the historic overall victory at the 2008 12 Hours of Sebring, when the smaller prototype surpassed the cars in the main category.
With the adapted liveries, without the sponsors' logos from that time, the two prototypes are expected to attract attention on the traditional American track. With the transition to the six-hour format, the Road America race will become part of the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup, joining important events such as Daytona, Sebring, Watkins Glen, and Petit Le Mans.
The motorsport world mourns the passing of Miguel Crispim Ladeira, known as Crispim, who died on Sunday (19th) at the age of 85 after multiple organ failure while hospitalized for an extended period.
Under the guidance of Jorge Lettri in the official Vemag team in the 1960s, Crispim achieved incredible results using small one-liter three-cylinder DKW engines. He was also the preparer of the legendary Carcará prototype, which broke the 212 km/h barrier in 1966, setting a South American speed record. This feat was a marvel of engineering, achieved while working with a piston that had already failed during training.
For decades, Crispim left his mark in Formula Super Vee, Formula Ford, at the famous Boxer workshop (alongside Chico Lameirao), and participated in the development of the national sports car Lobini H1. Recently, he published his memoirs in the autobiography 'Nasci Mecânico' (2025). The publication FlatOut extends its deepest condolences to Crispim's family and friends.
Although manual gearboxes are becoming increasingly rare in standard cars, niche sports models can maintain their relevance, as seen with Henessey, Pagani, Porsche, and Ferrari. McLaren potentially could join this trend. According to information from The Supercar Blog, Woking employees are preparing for the presentation of their new model—the McLaren P50. Rumor has it that to satisfy a certain group of clients who value McLaren's design and performance but desire a more engaging experience, the car will be equipped with a clutch pedal.
The publication does not provide sources, limiting itself to stating 'we learned,' yet the statements made are confident, albeit sparse. It is said that the new McLaren with a manual gearbox will be more expensive than the W1, part of the line started by the McLaren F1 and priced over 2 million US dollars, and that its production will be limited to fewer than 100 units. It is also claimed that the car will be presented to the public at 'The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering' event during Monterey Car Week in California on August 14, 2026.
It is unknown whether the proposed new McLaren will have a true manual gearbox or if it will be a shift and neutral simulator, similar to what Ferrari does with the 12Cilindri Manuale. If it turns out to be the latter, it will be an interesting surprise.
Recall studies showing that multimedia screens make cars increasingly dangerous. However, it seems this will not prevent manufacturers from continuing to invest in larger and more sophisticated displays that may further distract drivers. The new Freelander 8, which will be the first model from the newly created Jaguar Land Rover sub-brand, unveiled its interior, and the most striking element was the huge 46-inch multimedia panel.
In fact, there are two panels: a central multimedia unit, which is very large in itself—15.6 inches; and a panel above it, spanning the entire width of the dashboard and functioning as the instrument cluster. It also displays additional information such as GPS navigation, clock, weather forecast, and onboard computer functions. Below the central multimedia unit is a small series of physical buttons for functions like hazard lights, windshield heating, and audio volume, but apparently, all other controls will be focused on the screens. Furthermore, a third screen is provided for rear passengers.
The technological look is complemented by the overall minimalist cabin design, with atmospheric lighting in 256 colors (similar to gaming PC RGB equipment!) and an aromatic diffuser that, according to the Freelander description, will accurately reproduce the scent of a 'traditional English manor.' It should be noted that the new Freelander 8 will be a hybrid, using the internal combustion engine solely as a range extender, equipped with two electric motors—one on each axle, providing a total output of 561 hp. A fully electric drive version is also planned. This clearly differs from the traditional Freelander, although the classic-inspired visual style, including the sloping C-pillar, looks interesting.
The new generation Volkswagen Amarok is approaching launch, and thus it is appearing more frequently on the streets, albeit in disguise. Recent photos published by Argentina Autoblog show that it will have a completely different silhouette compared to the usual one. If the more straight shapes, high hood, more vertical windshield, and thin pillars give it a more 'Chinese' style, it is not accidental: the next generation Amarok is the result of a partnership between Volkswagen and Chinese SAIC; essentially, it is a VW version of the Maxus Terron 9 pickup. Naturally, it retains the current VW visual identity, including dual-level headlights and a LED strip running across the front end. Nevertheless, the bumpers and taillights look identical to the Chinese model.
The shared platform means that the new Amarok will have a semi-monocoque construction, combining a frame with passenger car elements such as the suspension. While Volkswagen has not disclosed details about the powertrain, only stating that the new Amarok will be hybrid. Although specific information is lacking, Volkswagen might present the new Amarok in Barretos during the rodeo festival at the end of August. The brand has previously held promotional events during this event.
A prototype of the new Toyota Hilux, in the final development stage, was spotted almost without camouflage, displaying almost the entire body, including the brand and model logos. Photos were received from the Guru dos Carros website. The pickup had sensors and a long exhaust pipe directed into the cargo bed, indicating the start of certification testing. This process should take about six months, predicting the release of the ninth generation in early 2027, depending on the production schedule at the Zarate plant in Argentina.
Although Toyota decided to reuse the proven IMV technical base and central cabin structure—including pillars, roof, windshield, and doors—the exterior front end will undergo a radical modernization. It is this deep plastic molding at the front combined with new technologies that leads the manufacturer to view the project globally as a full generational change. The main innovation under the hood is the introduction of a 48V mild-hybrid system installed on the 2.8 turbo-diesel engine. This technology uses a small 0.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and an auxiliary motor of 16 hp, which replaces the traditional generator and starter. The goal is to reduce emissions and smooth acceleration by working together with the improved start-stop system. Since the electrical assistance is localized and only operates below 1000 rpm (without direct wheel movement), maximum performance figures do not change: they remain 204 hp and 50.9 kgm of torque, always controlled by a six-speed automatic transmission. In the future, the portfolio will be supplemented by an unprecedented 100% electric version, the production of which has also been confirmed in Argentina for the Brazilian market. Plug-in hybrid versions, although often mentioned in industry rumors, remain speculative and have no release date in the country.
Bugatti has confirmed the end of production for the W16 Mistral hypercar, marking the end of an era for this model. The last of the 99 units was completed in the brand's workshop located in Molsheim, concluding the line of the roadster equipped with an eight-liter, four-turbo, 16-cylinder engine, based on the Bugatti Chiron.
This last Mistral features a relatively subtle color palette, combining two shades of off-white (Pearl and Sparkle) on the body, while the interior uses beige leather called 'Magnolia' and 'Grey Carbon Matt' gray. The vehicle received exclusive touches ordered by the owner through the Bugatti Sur Mesure program, such as a falcon sculpture on the gear lever (replacing the usual elephant) and hand embroidery on the door trims, which pay homage to the front ends of the Veyron and the Mistral itself, referencing the manufacturer's W-configuration 16-cylinder lineage.
On the center console and the movable rear wing, the phrase 'The last of its kind — The last of its species' was engraved. Although the Mistral number 99 is the last of the official series, the Bugatti Solitaire program allows customers to order a unique one-off unit using the Chiron monocoque or the eight-liter quad-turbo W16 engine, while stock is available. These customized models have a power output of 1,600 hp and a torque of 163.1 kgfm.
In parallel, Toyota and BMW are testing a renewable gasoline developed in partnership between the oil company Repsol and Bosch. This fuel, called Nexa 95, aims to help address the ban on combustion cars in Europe, differing from synthetic e-fuels because it is produced from organic waste.
The logic behind Nexa 95 is that the carbon dioxide emitted from the exhaust would be offset by what the organic raw material absorbed during its life cycle, resulting in a reduction of over 70% in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil gasoline. A significant advantage is that Nexa 95 is a 'drop-in' fuel, capable of directly replacing gasoline at the pump without the need for mechanical modifications or reprogramming of existing engines. For six months, a fleet of approximately 20 vehicles will be fueled exclusively with this new fuel, under monitoring by a digital telemetry system provided by Bosch.
The text reflects on the situation, pointing out that Brazil has had a similar solution for decades with ethanol, a green fuel used since the 1970s, which today makes up more than 30% of the national fleet, making it one of the cleanest in the world, even before the global climate concern.
At an event held on the 16th, MG introduced the electric hatchback MG4 Urban to the Brazilian market. With an initial price of R$ 129,990, the vehicle is positioned at the base of the brand's lineup, competing with models such as Dolphin Mini, Geely EX2, and GAC Aion UT.
Manufactured in Horizonte (CE), the MG4 Urban has dimensions of 4.39 meters in length, 1.84 m in width, and a wheelbase of 2.75 m, making it larger than the standard MG4, which starts at R$ 169,990 in the Comfort version. It also surpasses its competitors in trunk space, offering 477 liters, compared to 230 liters for the Dolphin Mini and 375 liters for the EX2.
MG offers the MG4 Urban only with an electric motor, but with two battery options. The 42 kWh version generates 150 hp, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds, and achieves up to 299 km of range. The 54 kWh battery delivers 160 hp, completes acceleration in 9.5 seconds, and travels up to 358 km on a single charge (Inmetro data). In European WLTP tests, the figures are 320 km and 415 km, respectively. Both batteries support fast DC charging, allowing travel from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes.
There are three trim levels. The entry-level version, MG4 Urban Comfort 43 kWh, costs R$ 129,990 and includes LED headlights and taillights, a roof rack, 16-inch wheels, and automatic one-zone air conditioning. In terms of technology and safety, it features a 7-inch digital dashboard, a 12.8-inch multimedia center, 7 airbags, and the ADAS package with 15 driving assistants.
Above it, the MG4 Urban Luxury 43 kWh, for R$ 139,990, adds 17-inch wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, ambient LED lighting, and a 360-degree camera system, in addition to electric seat adjustment and wireless charging.
At the top of the line, the MG4 Urban Luxury 54 kWh, valued at R$ 149,990, maintains the same comfort and safety features as the 43 kWh Luxury version, differing only in the larger battery capacity.
V12 engines seem to be in a comeback phase, and the newcomer Nilu27 serves as proof of this. Two years ago, the manufacturer presented the Nilu, a futuristic-looking hypercar with a classic proposal: naturally aspirated V12 engine, no hybrid assistance, manual gearbox, rear-wheel drive, and a light weight estimated at 1,200 kg.
Expectations were high, given that the Nilu27 had disclosed impressive figures at the time: over 1,000 hp, 11,000 rpm, and 1,200 kg. Although technically possible, the figures seemed excessive. However, a recent video published on the Nilu27 YouTube channel shows the V12 running on the workshop bench, demonstrating a powerful sound.
The V12 engine was developed by Hartley Engines, a company based in New Zealand. Configured in a 'hot V' with an exhaust manifold between the cylinders and individual throttle bodies, the 6.5-liter engine appears robust and represents an auditory alternative to the growing wave of electric hypercars. The project is led by designer Sasha Selipanov, who has prior experience at Lamborghini, Bugatti, and Koenigsegg.
The Nilu features a minimalist cockpit, with analog gauges, many metal components, seats integrated into the carbon fiber monocoque, and a highlight on the seven-speed manual gearbox. Nilu27 plans to send the engines from New Zealand to its factory in Germany, where the development and testing of the Nilu take place. Initially, 15 track units will be produced, with the possibility of homologation for 54 street models if the process is successful.
Aston Martin has also collaborated with developer Infinity Ward and publisher Activision to include an exclusive vehicle in the first-person shooter game Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4. This vehicle is the Aston Martin Dreadnought, described by the brand as the 'ultimate high-performance tactical SUV.'
Visually, the Dreadnought resembles a futuristic Humvee, incorporating design elements inspired by Aston Martins, such as the front reminiscent of the late 1970s V8 Vantage, notably in the grille shape and headlight arrangement. Although it is a virtual vehicle, Aston Martin ensured that it has the sound of its V12 engine and that its physics were developed in conjunction with the brand's engineering department to realistically simulate the behavior of an Aston Martin, even in war scenarios.
The name of the car also originates from historical British combat vehicles, such as the HMS Dreadnought ship. Like the ship, the Dreadnought in CoD: MW4 includes reserve fuel tanks, ammunition compartments, and armor against heavy ordnance. Beyond the gaming universe, Aston Martin will present a full-size replica of the Dreadnought at the Fanatics Fest, a sporting event held in New York this weekend, while the game will be released in October of this year.
