Maserati may reintroduce V8 engines in its vehicles. According to the brand's chief engineer, Davide Danesin, there is both customer interest and technical feasibility to equip some current models with a V8. However, there are currently no official plans for a new Maserati V8.
The models most likely to receive this powertrain would be the GranTurismo and the GranCabrio, as they were designed to accommodate various engine configurations. Danesin mentioned that even the Grecale could potentially be adapted for a V8, although this application in a compact SUV is considered less natural compared to the two GTs.
The final decision will depend on corporate strategy and demand volume. The engineer believes that Maserati would be capable of selling a V8 model, even in small quantities, and noted a growing market interest in larger engines. Despite this, Maserati itself does not view the V8 as essential for boosting its cars' performance, given that the current 3.0-liter biturbo V6 Nettuno achieves 590 hp in the GranTurismo and GranCabrio Trofeo, power sufficient to exceed 320 km/h.
It is believed that the discussion about the return of the V8 is more emotional than technical. Although a V8 would not change performance, it could be perceived as more consistent with the GranTurismo's identity, especially considering that this line built much of its image around Ferrari's V8s. There is still no information regarding the origin or specifications of this potential engine, which represents the biggest obstacle to the return of V8s. Some suggest that it would be wiser to leave this possibility to Ferrari and focus the new Maserati's identity on six-cylinder engines, keeping the brand between Ferrari and Alfa Romeo within the group.
Mercedes-AMG has launched the GT53, the new entry-level version of the electric sports car. This model, with its striking design, differs from the top-of-the-line by not having the three-motor system, but it still delivers 543 hp and can reach 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds.
The new four-door AMG GT is fully electric and was unveiled in May with three axial flux motors developed by Yasa—one in the front axle and two in the rear. In the most powerful configuration, the GT63, the setup generates 1,170 hp and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just over two seconds.
To create the GT53, AMG replaced the entire mechanical assembly, using two permanent magnet synchronous motors, one in each axle, instead of the triple axial flux system. The 543 hp represents only the peak maximum power, while the continuous power used is 367 hp. Furthermore, the top speed is electronically limited to 230 km/h.
Despite the lower power, the GT53 is closer to the grand tourer concept thanks to the 106 kWh battery, which promises a range of nearly 800 km in the WLTP cycle. Mercedes reports that it is possible to recover 480 km of range in ten minutes, but this requires a charging power of 600 kW, something almost unattainable at public chargers. In terms of driver experience, the GT53 features paddles that simulate gear shifts—a solution seen as less advanced than Ferrari Luce's—and the sound system reproduces the roar of the old AMG E53 Coupé's six cylinders. The suspension is pneumatic and offers a sport mode. The prices for the GT53 have not yet been disclosed, but it is expected to be positioned near the entry-level versions of the Porsche Taycan.
Many vehicles are seen merely as consumer goods, but others become collector's items. Recognizing this, Mercedes-Benz created the Mercedes-Benz Classic Birth Document, a type of 'birth certificate' for cars manufactured between January 1, 1986, and December 31, 2010.
This document compiles data extracted directly from the German manufacturer's historical archives. Detailed information includes the chassis number (VIN/FIN), date of issue and exact model, original paint color and interior trim code, original engine and transmission numbering, as well as a complete list of factory-installed options.
For those restoring a W124, R129 SL, or W140 S-Class, this document serves as a meticulous guide to ensure the restoration strictly adheres to original factory standards. The presentation follows the brand's standard, being printed on high-grade paper and kept in a special case with the company's embossed crest.
It is important to note that this paper does not constitute a certificate of authenticity; it only proves how the vehicle left the production line, without attesting to its current state of preservation, the originality of modern parts, or its market value. Unfortunately, the service is currently restricted to vehicles located in Germany. The brand plans to expand this novelty to other European markets in the future, but there is no forecast for arrival in the American continent. Additionally, AMG models, vans, and Smart brand vehicles were excluded from this initial program.
Aston Martin executed an unusual transaction by ceding 50.1% of its intellectual property related to the name 'Aston Martin' to Authentic Brands, an American media, sports, and entertainment platform. This action, while seemingly extreme, was part of an agreement allowing Aston Martin to obtain debt financing of up to £550 million (approximately US$ 740 million) from the HPS fund, managed by BlackRock.
In practice, the manufacturer gave up a significant portion of royalties from future licensed products (such as watches, jackets, or perfumes) to gain immediate liquidity, refinance outstanding debts, and maintain operations. This demonstrates that, in the contemporary corporate landscape, even a name can serve as collateral to ensure business continuity.
However, this discreet maneuver provoked a corporate reaction. A group of former creditors sent a notification to the board of directors threatening legal action. The central allegation is that Aston Martin removed a valuable asset from the set of guarantees protecting previous loans without offering investors the opportunity to cover the offer and provide the new financing, which, according to the creditors, violated serious contractual clauses.
As a result, the legendary British manufacturer became a minority shareholder in the commercial use of the words 'Aston Martin' outside the automotive segment. The practice of fractionalizing its own name to inject capital into the cash flow has become recurrent; a few months ago, the brand raised £50 million by selling the name rights to its own Formula 1 team. While executives refuse to comment on the litigation threats, summarizing the agreement merely as 'vital for the company,' the impression persists that Aston Martin is risking parts of its essence to keep its engines running.
Although the production of the Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman was discontinued in 2025, the future of the model remained uncertain. Subsequently, the German automaker revealed that the next generation of this rear-engined sports car would be fully electric, news that was initially not well received by the public.
In response, Porsche informed the press, back in December of the previous year, that the PPE (Premium Platform Electric) platform would be adapted to accommodate combustion engines. This fueled speculation that only track-focused variants, such as the 718 GT4, would be gasoline-powered.
However, in recent months, rumors have surfaced that the launch of the electric 718 would be delayed or even canceled. Nevertheless, CEO Michael Leiters clarified the situation when speaking with the German publication Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, stating that the original plan remains valid and the electric 718 will be launched.
The executive declared: 'Regarding the electric 718, we have concluded that we will produce this model,' adding that the choice is due both to economic viability and the fact that it is a 'fantastic car.'
The financial justification is supported by 2025 sales figures, when Porsche recorded 280,000 sales, with 22.2% being pure electric and 12.1% being plug-in hybrids. In Europe, the penetration of electrified vehicles was even higher, reaching 57.9% of Porsche sales that year.
Additionally, the development of the electric 718 was already quite advanced, and the delivery deadline was extended due to the rework of the platform to accept combustion engines. Canceling a project at this stage would represent a financial waste. Considering that Leiters took over from Oliver Blume with the goal of recovering Porsche's profitability, which faces difficulties related to the Volkswagen Group crisis, this would be an economically imprudent decision.
On the other hand, under Blume's management, Porsche saw its profit drop by $2.1 billion, a direct result of excessive investment in electric vehicles, which reinforces the strategy of adapting combustion engines onto the PPE platform.
Despite the lack of enthusiasm from enthusiasts for the electric 718, this has little impact on Porsche's decisions. If, ultimately, this change helps stabilize the company and ensure the survival of the 911, this reality must be accepted.
Meanwhile, in the United States, the Ram 1500 Rumble Bee received a power boost even before it started being sold. Its most extreme variant, the SRT, equipped with the 6.2-liter Hellcat V8 engine, already boasts 787 hp.
Ram announced that the pickup truck will also participate in the Direct Connection program, a Mopar performance parts catalog. This program allows for an upgrade of the 2.4-liter supercharger to 3 liters, increasing total power to over 900 hp while maintaining the warranty. This kit costs nearly $11,000.
The supercharger kit is available for other engine configurations: the 5.7-liter engine of the initial version goes up from 400 hp to about 600 hp, and the intermediate version's 392 V8 (6.4 liters) goes from 476 hp to approximately 700 hp. The SRT variant already exceeds 900 hp.
Those who purchase the supercharger kit can add a Magnaflow exhaust system. Furthermore, the Rumble Bee and Rumble Bee 392 versions can receive a suspension package with 24-position adjustable coilover shocks and stiffer springs, lowering the front by 2.5 cm and the rear by 7.5 cm, which, according to Ram, improves traction and cornering performance.
The manufacturer confirmed that these packages will be released alongside the trucks, scheduled for late 2026 for the Ram Rumble Bee and early 2027 for the 392 and SRT versions.
In another sector, GWM introduced a work version of the Poer P30 pickup, making it the most affordable double-cab mid-size pickup in Brazil, priced at R$ 205,000.
This new configuration is R$ 22,000 cheaper than the Poer P30 Trail (R$ 227,000) and R$ 42,000 cheaper than the Exclusive (R$ 247,000). Comparatively, the direct rival Fiat Titano Endurance costs R$ 238,490, showing a difference of R$ 33,490.
Entry options from competitors like Ford Ranger, Chevrolet S10, and Toyota Hilux cost between R$ 248,600 and R$ 256,390, but they are chassis-cab models, whereas the Poer P30 Pro already comes with a double cab and standard bed.
To achieve the R$ 205,000 price point, GWM simplified the trim: alloy wheels were replaced with 18-inch steel wheels, and details such as the grille, mirrors, and door handles were finished in matte black and dark gray.
Internally, the multimedia screen was reduced from 14.6 to 12.3 inches, and the digital instrument cluster decreased from 10.25 to seven inches. The Pro version also lost features such as 360-degree camera, front parking sensors, electric mirrors, inductive charging, connected services, and transparent vision system. The front seats no longer have electric adjustments, heating, or ventilation, and the interior is entirely black.
The mechanical assembly remains unchanged: it uses the 184 hp and 48.9 kgfm 2.4 turbo-diesel coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The 4x4 traction offers 2H, 4H, and 4L modes, in addition to electronic rear differential lock. The safety package includes six airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, frontal collision warning, and license plate recognition.
Volvo reiterated the warning to owners of the EX30 involved in the battery recall: they should not charge the vehicles above 70% capacity until the repair is performed. The manufacturer identified a production flaw in the high-voltage battery cells of some units of the electric SUV, which could cause short circuits, overheating, and fire risk.
The recall covers EX30s manufactured between September 6, 2024, and October 25, 2025, affecting over 40,000 cars globally, with about 5,600 in Brazil. As a precaution, Volvo instructed owners to limit charging to 70% via the car's system until the batteries are replaced at a dealership. In certain markets, avoiding charging in enclosed or unsupervised locations was recommended.
Luis Rezende, Volvo's president for the Americas, emphasized in an interview with CBN radio that exceeding this limit is unsafe, asking all owners to comply with the recall. He stated: 'We ask the owners of the EX30, please follow the recall. The battery limit is indeed 70%. Charging above that is not safe and can really cause accidents.'
The recall requires inspection and replacement of battery components. The alert gained prominence after a Volvo EX30 caught fire in Rio de Janeiro, although there is no confirmation yet of a link between this incident and the fault that motivated the recall. Until the repair is completed, the guidance is to keep the charge at 70% and visit a Volvo dealership.
To celebrate 30 years of the manga Initial D, Seiko launched the Keisuke Takahashi RX-7 FD3S chronograph, in collaboration with the retail chain Premico. The watch is inspired by the character Keisuke Takahashi, driver of the iconic yellow Mazda RX-7 FD. The color appears on the dial, and the secondary dials replicate the car's instruments. The 12 o'clock marker mimics the rotor of a Wankel engine, and the RedSuns emblem is at the 3 o'clock position.
This quartz watch features a stainless steel case and bracelet. The back cover is engraved with the franchise logo and the individual unit number. 1,995 units will be produced, referencing the serialization year of Initial D in the Japanese magazine Weekly Young.
This is the second Seiko watch inspired by Initial D; last year, there was a release based on Takumi Fujiwara's Toyota AE86. It is common for Japanese watchmakers to partner with anime and manga, attracting a community of horology collectors.
The Seiko Keisuke Takahashi RX-7 FD3S began selling on August 3rd at the official Premico store for 65,780 yen (equivalent to about R$ 2,140). Importers like Hobby Genki also offer pre-sales for ¥ 71,980 (approximately R$ 2,340), with international shipping expected in January 2027. Due to the limited edition, prices on the parallel market can be significantly higher, as seen in the Takumi Fujiwara version, which can cost almost R$ 20,000 in Brazil.
Finally, Ford continues the development of its next Le Mans car. After confirming the Coyote-derived V8 and performing the first engine ignition, the racing division announced that the assembly can reproduce a complete lap at La Sarthe on the dynamometer.
IndyCar announced the development of its new chassis, the IR-28, after 16 years of perfecting the DW12 engine. This project, currently in development by Dallara, aims to reduce weight, improve aerodynamics to facilitate overtaking, and integrate the aeroscreen more seamlessly into Formula models.
The first representations of the IR-28 show a cleaner and more aggressive profile, moving away from the 'cut lid' appearance of the current aeroscreen, and resembling Formula cars more closely, while maintaining the characteristic simplicity of Indy. The cockpit has been redesigned to better accommodate taller drivers, optimizing comfort and ventilation.
Although details about the powertrain and aerodynamics are still pending, Indy informed that wings and underbody have been designed to reduce aerodynamic drag, allowing vehicles to operate closer in corners, which promises more intense braking races. For weight reduction, the supercapacitor was replaced by a standard battery and a lighter Xtrac transmission was adopted, resulting in a 45 kg reduction in the mechanical assembly.
The engines remain the same—a 2.4-liter twin-turbo V6 supplied by Chevrolet and Honda—but they have been adjusted with continuous development advancements, generating an unspecified power increase. Additionally, the suspension will receive a new set that will allow for more adjustments in spring, damper, and inertia without increasing team costs. Initial tests with the prototype will begin this week, with the debut scheduled only for the 2028 season.
Volkswagen initially showed the Tukan, its new compact pickup truck, only in the double-cab configuration, focusing on color, name, and shape, which was seen as a response to the market's preference for SUVs with less practical cargo beds. Recently, however, the simple cabin version was revealed, which had previously circulated only camouflaged or as a test vehicle.
The Tukan CS holds strategic importance equivalent to its more sophisticated version, as it is expected to succeed the Saveiro and surpass the Strada, which dominates both the segment and the market. The key mechanical distinction lies in the rear suspension, which will use a robust solid axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs, following the same engineering as Fiat, which should ensure a load capacity close to 700 kg.
Regarding engines, it will inherit options from the T-Cross, sharing the modular MQB platform, ranging from 1.0 TSI up to the new 1.5 TSI mild hybrid, the latter intended for the higher-end double-cab versions. Although the Tarok concept was seen at the Auto Show in 2018, the official launch of the pickup is scheduled for the first half of 2027, representing a long wait.
Volkswagen presented the hybrid version of the T-Roc in Europe, an SUV derived from the Golf Mk7, equipped with a 1.5 turbo TSI Evo2 engine, two electric motors, and a 1.6 kWh battery. Although this powertrain seems distant for the Brazilian public, this unprecedented engine in the country will serve as the basis for the national T-Roc. Furthermore, the 1.5 engine will be adapted to run on gasoline and alcohol, anticipating mild and fully hybrid versions.
A crucial point is that the Brazilian T-Roc will have different dimensions from the European model. Sources indicate that the national version will use the MQB Evo platform but will feature a larger overall length and wheelbase. While it measures 4.37 meters in length and 2.63 m in wheelbase in Europe, in Brazil these measurements should be between 4.40 and 4.50 meters in length, and 2.65 to 2.70 m in wheelbase. This change mirrors what happened with the T-Cross in 2019, when the European project was adapted to the Brazilian market.
The information is confirmed by photos of prototypes testing in Brazil, where larger swings and a distinct design on the front bumper, with new air intakes for the cooling system, are noticeable. The T-Roc is expected to debut in Brazil in 2027, and it is speculated that it might replace the Nivus, although the coexistence of the models is also a possibility.
Audi revealed its largest SUV, the Q9, in the United States, a market where such vehicles have greater penetration. The Q9 will be produced in Bratislava, Slovakia, and will also be sold in Europe. Its arrival in Brazil has not yet been confirmed, but it is considered likely.
Audi's numbering follows a size progression, and the Q9, being the first with the number 9, reached a new dimensional level: 5.31 meters in length, 2.21 m in width, 1.81 m in height, and 3.14 meters in wheelbase. To realize the Q9, Audi abandoned the MLB platform used by the Q8 and adopted the PPC architecture, developed in collaboration with Porsche.
The four-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, similar to the one used in the Cayenne Coupe, is supplied by Porsche. In the launch sports variant, the SQ9, it generates 599 hp and 81.6 kgfm of torque. However, American consumers will also have the option of the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, which produces 435 hp. The transmission is always an eight-speed automatic, coupled with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which directs most of the power to the rear axle and includes an electronic locking differential.
For the European market, the Q9 will also be available with a three-liter turbodiesel V6 engine, capable of delivering 245 hp or 299 hp, depending on the version, assisted by a mild hybrid system that provides an additional 24 hp when necessary. Plug-in hybrid versions will be introduced next year. Although there is no official forecast for Brazil, Audi generally launches new products quickly in the local market.
After an advertising incident with the new electric Charger, Dodge is focused on damage control and decided to revive past icons with a modern look, including the Copperhead concept, which is expected to become a production model.
More recently, the company announced a probable modern reinterpretation of the Plymouth Superbird and Dodge Charger Daytona combination, characterized by an aerodynamic nose and a raised rear wing. The images released so far are only conceptual projections, but the outlook is promising.
A more concrete announcement was made recently: Dodge released a teaser video focused on classic muscle car enthusiasts, highlighting yellow and black colors, dragstrip lights, and bees. This signals the return of the Super Bee. The original Super Bee was launched in 1968, based on the Coronet, and was known for offering the option of 426 Hemi V8 (seven liters) and Six Pack 440 (7.2 liters) engines.
The nomenclature was also briefly used in 2023 on the Charger sedan, with a special Super Bee edition limited to 1,000 units, launched in the Last Call farewell series. Even without official images or emblems in the teaser, the message is clear. An important date was marked: August 7, 2026, coinciding with the Roadkill Nights event, Dodge's annual drag racing festival organized in partnership with Motor Trend magazine, which often serves as a stage for concept and model debuts.
