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Auto Blog
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
AC Schnitzer Gives BMW's New M5 More Power And Presence
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. or sign in with Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Hybrid V8 Means a Wild M5, But AC Schnitzer Wants More The 2025 BMW M5 is no longer just a muscular gas-powered brute. With the G90 sedan and G99 Touring, BMW has added a plug-in hybrid twist to the formula, pairing a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with electric power to generate a staggering 717 horsepower right out of the box. Whether you choose the sedan or the long-roof version, the result is a capable machine that blends Autobahn pace with electric efficiency. 0:02 / 0:09 Audi A5 replaces A4: So, what's changed? Watch More But for AC Schnitzer, the M5's standard firepower wasn't enough. The German tuning firm, known for adding sharp edges to BMW's most capable models, has rolled out a preview of its full upgrade package for the new M5 duo. The result is a sedan or a wagon that's more powerful and noticeably beefier. M5 Gets Angrier, Louder, and 82 Horses Stronger As expected from AC Schnitzer, the German tuner is preparing a performance tune that will raise system output to 799 hp, or 82 more than the standard M5. The tuner hasn't fully revealed how this is achieved, but it's expected to come primarily from the combustion engine side, possibly boosting the 4.4-liter V8 to around 660 hp. Torque figures are still under wraps, but a bump over the stock 553 lb-ft is expected. The upgrade includes a full warranty, maintaining peace of mind even with the added firepower. Visual changes are just as serious. The car gains a more aggressive front splitter, canard-style side wings, chunkier side skirts, and a new rear diffuser. The three-box sedan gets a trunk lip spoiler, while the family-oriented wagon receives a roof wing. Ride height is lowered by 0.79 inches front and rear via revised springs for sharper handling. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Wheels are replaced with forged 21-inch AC6 Lightweight sets, available in either glossy black or ceramic-coated natural aluminum. Wrapped in wide rubber, they're paired with optional spacers if you want to stick to factory wheels. The quad 4.3-inch 'Carbon Sport' exhaust tips finish off the visual and aural drama. In Development, But Coming Soon Inside, you'll find aluminum trim pieces including pedals, an iDrive controller cover, and a matching key holder – minor but tasteful upgrades in keeping with the car's sharpened focus. All components of the AC Schnitzer M5 package are currently in development, with pricing and availability to be announced later in 2025. As always, Schnitzer's upgrades serve as a more radical, performance-focused alternative to BMW's own M Performance Parts line. About the Author Jacob Oliva View Profile
Car and Driver
02-07-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview VW's recipe for the GLI isn't complex: Start with the more pedestrian Jetta sedan and increase its engine displacement to 2.0 liters and the pony count to 228 horsepower. Then upgrade the suspension with adaptive dampers and give shoppers a choice of transmissions: a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Keep the price reasonable, the handling sharp, and the ride comfortable. Then bulk up the standard-features list with several amenities (like leather upholstery and heated and ventilated front seats) and lots of driver aids. Voila! You have the 2026 Jetta GLI. Expert Tip: If you like the GLI but want a little more muscle and cargo space, the Volkswagen Golf GTI hatchback is worth a look. The six-speed manual comes off the table, though. What's New for 2026? The Jetta GLI is largely unchanged for 2026, but it gains an eight-speaker stereo system and some steering-wheel buttons. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is expected to start around $34,000. Autobahn $34,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k Every 2026 GLI comes in Autobahn trim, with adaptive dampers, leather upholstery, lots of driver-assistance features, and a great infotainment setup. All you have to do is select the transmission. We'd opt for the stick shift, as we're still out to save them. Plus, the manual car costs less and returns better fuel economy. Engine, Transmission, and Performance Engine: 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder Transmissions: 6-speed manual; 7-speed dual-clutch automatic 6-speed manual; 7-speed dual-clutch automatic Drivetrain: front-wheel drive The GLI is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. (The current GTI gets a 241-hp version of this engine.) A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic is optional. Regardless of which setup you choose, the GLI is significantly quicker than the regular Jetta, which comes with a 158-hp engine. The stick shift is easy and satisfying to row. Our only complaint with the automatic is its hesitancy to downshift during spirited driving. Even so, the Jetta GLI is fun to drive, providing feelsome steering, strong brakes, and a compliant ride on its adaptive dampers, but it could use a set of summer tires to improve its cornering grip. (The hatchback GTI offers stickier rubber, but the sedan comes exclusively with all-seasons.) 0–60-MPH Times C/D 60-mph Tests: 6.0 seconds (manual); 5.6 seconds (automatic) In Comparison: In terms of acceleration, the VW Jetta GLI bests the Honda Civic Si (which needs 6.6 seconds to reach 60) but lags behind the Hyundai Elantra N (which needs only 4.8 seconds to hit the mark). View Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG C/D 75-mph Highway Fuel-Economy Test: 26 mpg 26 mpg EPA City Ratings: 25-26 mpg 25-26 mpg EPA Highway Ratings: 35-36 mpg The EPA hasn't released fuel-economy information for the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI yet, but the 2025 manual-equipped model earns ratings of 26 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. With the automatic, the GLI posts only slightly worse numbers: 25 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. We don't expect these estimates to change for the 2026 model. For more information about the Jetta GLI's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo First Row: While VW could've used nicer materials and bulked up the seat bolsters some, the GLI is at least spacious for a compact sedan and packed with goodies like a 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster, customizable ambient interior lighting, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Second Row: VW's compact sedan offers more rear-seat legroom than the GTI hatch. Average-sized adults can sit in the back of the GLI without banging their knees. Cargo Capacity: This compact sedan has a sizable trunk, offering 14.1 cubic feet of space and capable of holding seven carry-on suitcases. View Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 8.0-inch touchscreen 8.0-inch touchscreen Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility Audio System: 8-speaker stereo The Jetta GLI has a user-friendly infotainment system featuring an 8.0-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functions. A Wi-Fi hotspot, an eight-speaker stereo, and wireless device charging are also standard. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The Jetta GLI is loaded with standard driver-assistance technology, including automatic high-beam headlights and lane-keeping assist. Standard Safety Features: adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross-traffic alert For information about the Jetta GLI's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Warranty and Maintenance Coverage The Volkswagen Jetta GLI has an above-average limited warranty for its class but below-average powertrain coverage. To offset the latter, the company provides some complimentary maintenance. Limited Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles four years or 50,000 miles Powertrain Warranty: four years or 50,000 miles four years or 50,000 miles Complimentary Maintenance: two years or 20,000 miles C/D Test Results and Specs Whenever a model debuts or sees significant revisions, we test it and publish the results. While the chart below may list data for an earlier model year, the numbers still apply to the current model, as it hasn't seen meaningful changes and doesn't warrant a new test. Specifications Specifications 2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan PRICE Base/As Tested: $33,940/$35,045 Options: GLI Black package (black wheels, mirror caps, and trunk-lid spoiler), $650; Monument Gray with Deep Black roof, $455 ENGINE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, iron block and aluminum head, direct fuel injection Displacement: 121 in3, 1984 cm3 Power: 228 hp @ 6700 rpm Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm TRANSMISSION 6-speed manual CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 13.4-in vented disc/11.8-in disc Tires: Hankook Kinergy GT 225/45R-18 91H M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 105.6 in Length: 186.9 in Width: 70.8 in Height: 57.3 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 51/43 ft3 Trunk Volume: 14 ft3 Curb Weight: 3537 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 6.0 sec 100 mph: 14.0 sec 1/4-Mile: 14.5 sec @ 102 mph Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.4 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 6.8 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 12.5 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 8.8 sec Top Speed (gov ltd): 126 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 177 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 363 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.88 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 26 mpg EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 30/26/36 mpg More Features and Specs
Auto Blog
23-06-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Mercedes Boss Hands The Combustion Engine Another Lifeline
Mercedes Isn't Going All-Electric Anytime Soon Mercedes has been teasing AMG's first in-house all-electric vehicle, a 1,000-horsepower-plus super sedan that will redefine Affalerbach's definition of an Autobahn animal. On the other end of the spectrum, the entry-level CLA has arrived with similarly brilliant all-electric technology, and the automaker had previously announced intentions for all its products to be EVs around the end of the decade. Those plans have continually shifted as demand has, and based on comments Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius recently made to German publication Auto Motor und Sport, they're seemingly shifting again. When asked if the decision to offer the GLC SUV as an EV and also with a hybridized combustion engine was a stopgap measure, Källenius responded, 'The electrified, high-tech combustion engines will run longer than we originally expected. We have made this course correction.' Mercedes Following Toyota And BMW's Lead Source: Mercedes-Benz The CEO added, 'I believe the most rational approach in the current situation is for an established manufacturer to do both [EV and gas] and not neglect one technology.' If those sorts of comments sound familiar, BMW CEO Oliver Zipse and Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda have expressed similar sentiments, saying that focusing all one's resources on exclusively building cars that are not yet fully supported in terms of worldwide infrastructure and demand is simply implausible for any automaker that wishes to exist long enough to see global EV adoption take hold en masse. To be fair, Källenius hasn't just come to this realization now. Last year, he announced plans to move the EQS and S-Class under one nameplate, and Mercedes, like most of its peers, has always accompanied its all-electric goals with the condition that they are subject to market conditions. And let's face it, the market for new luxury EVs is not exactly booming. Expect To See More Of Everything, Including EVs 'The new CLA is the greeting from the kitchen of an entire family,' Källenius said. 'Then the core segments will follow with the electric versions of the GLC, C-Class, and E-Class. We still have an incredible amount in the pipeline.' As we touched on above, Mercedes is dropping the EQ 'sub-brand,' which was essentially a gamble based on the supposition that EV buyers wanted association with the Mercedes brand but also a unique identity. It was also a marketing ploy because Mercedes EQ models looked vastly different from traditionally named and powered Benzes, but the combination of a new name and jellybean styling led one dealer to tell Automotive News (subscription required) in 2023, 'Our cars need to be 'want' cars. The S-Class has maintained good loylty because it's aspirational. An EQS is not something that most people aspire to own.' Källenius' comments indicate that, like BMW (which sells identically styled i7 EV and 7 Series sedans), future EVs will look similar to their combustion-powered counterparts, and those hybridized counterparts will now likely be sold well into the next decade. The shift in styling strategy has already begun. The all-electric G 580 with EQ Technology has a silly name, but it looks like the solid G-Wagen it is. Notably, Porsche is also now working on a new gas Macan after the EV's sales failed to sustain the nameplate, reports Autocar. In America, both the old gas and new electric Macan are sold concurrently, but in Europe, cybersecurity laws meant Porsche had to move on, and with the 718, too. Now, it may be returning to combustion, but have no doubt, more EQs and electric Caymans will still be developed. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. About the Author Sebastian Cenizo View Profile
Top Gear
18-06-2025
- Automotive
- Top Gear
Skoda Superb Estate - long-term review - Report No:3 2025
But the 2.0-litre diesel suits this work. It's been refined and sorted for years. It might only have 190bhp (193PS in European), but there's 295lb ft of torque (400Nm) on offer between 1,750 and 3,250rpm, which is exactly where you need it. A 0-62mph time of 7.6 seconds is in the sweet spot of fast enough, and although a top speed of 142mph is largely irrelevant, it means that a continental cruise on an Autobahn or 80mph Autoroute will be easy pickings. A fact reinforced by 57mpg if you're doing UK 70mph speeds. The Superb is supposed to get 47mpg combined, but in a big turn up for the books, and a devastating indictment of my grandparent-style driving, I'm actually getting over 50. I don't really use Sport mode and have a habit of clicking the car into Eco for the 50mpg per tank extra that it provides. Sorry, but when you pay for your own diesel… It's funny, but when you actually look forward to doing a bit of driving or using a car to its fullest, you know something's going well. And yes, I'm fully aware that constantly singing the praises of a 2.0-litre diesel estate car is a bit dull, but age is knowing what's good and caring less about what's supposed to be cool. Although saying that in a world of MHEVs and hybrids, electric SUVs and small-capacity turbo engines is lauding what appears to be a throwback. The seven-speed auto works very well, sorting gears with minimum fuss, even if it's not the absolute last word in deftness on the odd upchange. You can use the paddles - which I do on the odd cross country lope - but really, it's more about sitting back and letting the car take the strain. And again, the four-wheel drive system only kicks in with any authority when the front wheels have raised concerns, be that off-road or on. Saying that, I've been consistently surprised that the Superb can find a bit of grip on a wet grass field without any trouble. If you're on-road, you'll find that the whole thing is stable and consistent, but tends towards early onset understeer and a gentle kind washing out, like it's forgotten where the apex of a corner once was. Nothing to be concerned about, but the racier humans in the office would call it boring. Boring is good - boring is what you want on late night drives in the rain. Interestingly, the 'progressive dynamic steering' seems to blend very nicely - you rarely notice much difference unless you concentrate. There's enough feel at speed and no muscle required when parking, so something's right. There's a slight raised eyebrow at the ride at times, mind. We've got this car on the smaller wheels and Pirelli Sotto Zero winter tyres - and yes, I'll run them in warmer weather and don't care - so there's a touch more sidewall. But get a big enough pothole or series of lateral ridges and you'll still get a proper jiggle from the suspension. More a commentary on my local roads, but it's wise to note that this isn't limo-like at all times. It does stay level and true no matter what's in the back though, and I've had it absolutely stuffed full of gear thanks to university-bound spawn. Have to say though, it's the little things. The multiple hooks in the boot, plus 12-volt charging points both sides, the ability to drop the rear seats from the boot via the levers in the same panel. The actual spare wheel. The extra nets for stowage. The little umbrella in the door cubby, the centre console that houses a sunglasses holder and screen wiping block, the clear tag in the windscreen that holds a parking ticket. The fact that you can switch off the speed limit warning bongs and lane-keep assist quickly and easily through the steering wheel clickwheel. The fact that the LED Matrix lights on the L&K are absolutely spot-on, and the CarPlay/Android is wireless and automatic. There are 5 USB-C ports in the cabin, and the voice control actually works. It's a good basic car with attention to detail that makes it a great one.
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
How this European carmaker is getting more Americans to drive convertibles
What matters more to drivers these days? Is it technology, horsepower or efficiency? Mercedes-Maybach is betting on lifestyle. Its vehicles -- posh, regal and extravagant -- inhabit the same realm as Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Drive one on Germany's Autobahn, and you'd be astonished at the power and speed. Daniel Lescow, the head of Mercedes-Maybach, said customers are looking to "express their lifestyle and individuality," which may be satisfied by brand's latest status symbol, the SL 680, a glamorous two-seater that launched last year and arrives at U.S. dealers this summer. The SL, which will be priced above $200,000, comes in two curated design concepts, "White Ambience" or "Red Ambience," yet more than 50 exclusive colors are available to choose from at the factory. Plush interiors, premium materials and metal knobs and buttons have become standard in ultra-luxe autos. So Maybach went a bit more extreme, stamping the company's recognizable logo all over the hood, a labor-intensive printing process that involves four coats of clear lacquer and three hand-sanded coats of paint. Remove the lavishness, and the SL is also a true sports car, with a 577 horsepower biturbo V8 powerplant. The convertible's specially tuned suspension gives owners a softer or firmer driving experience, depending on the location and one's state of mind. Lescow recently spoke to ABC News about the SL 680, the sportiest model in the marque's long history, and how he's growing brand awareness in the crowded luxury space. The interview below has been edited for space and clarity. Q: You said you want to make the brand "more desirable." Please explain. A: There's various dimensions to it. One is the product image. The second dimension is the way we connect with our customers and potential customers in retail spaces. One by one we're building these Maybach lounges -- dedicated spaces -- globally for customers to learn more about the cars and brand aesthetics. We have a very elaborate location in India. At one event in Vienna there was a private concert with [pianist] Lang Lang, who played the piano for our most important customers. Another dimension is our collaborations. For example, we're working with a [German] silverware company on champagne flute holders. It's important the brand is centered around the lifestyle of our customers. Q: Convertibles are a niche market in the U.S. How difficult is it to sell convertibles to American drivers? A: It is not so much about the location or the nationality. It's about the individual customer we want to approach. We do see significant potential in the American market. It's an important market for Maybach, clearly. We recently opened a massive Maybach presence at the Mercedes-Benz dealership in Manhattan. We do see strong interest from the American market in open top two-seaters. Last year, we chose Pebble Beach as the global world premiere for the Maybach SL Monogram Series. Q: Who is the Maybach customer? Is it the traditional Mercedes-Benz customer or are you pursuing Bentley and Rolls-Royce owners? A: The customers are as individual as our cars. Many of them have a number of cars in the fleet. Our customers range from entrepreneurs to artists to superstars ... what many of them are looking for is a way to express their lifestyle and individuality. Q: Why doesn't the SL have the brand's venerable V12 engine under the hood? And how comes it's not electrified? A: We are extremely happy to have the V12 in the Mercedes-Maybach S 680, the flagship offering. When we designed the SL, it was very clear that it's a sports car. And it will remain as the Maybach sports car -- sporty yet elegant. The balance, the agility and the way the V8 behaves ... it's the perfect engine for this car. For electric driving, we do have the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV, which is fully electric. That car is completely different. The electric drivetrain really adds to what's important to Maybach. It's the most comfortable and quiet ride you can imagine. Q: So there was no discussion about making the SL an electric convertible? A: For this car, no. We wanted to have the characteristic of a sports car with all the emotions around it. MORE: Want an electric vehicle but not a Tesla? Here are some great alternatives Q: Why would a customer choose this model over the AMG SL 63 Roadster? A: The SL 680 is clearly designed for sporty driving but with all the Maybach ingredients: comfort and opulence. Customers looking for an even sportier car would clearly opt for the AMG. The cars are different from the ways they look and behave -- they address different customer needs. Q: How has the brand changed under your leadership? A: It's a privilege to work with such a legendary brand. We launched two new cars, doubling the portfolio from two cars to four with the SL. We have seen brand awareness increasing around the world -- that is something that's very important. I can't wait to see what the future will bring. Q: There's still uncertainty about tariffs and costs -- how does this factor into your product planning? Do wealthy customers still spend money in these unpredictable times? A: There are some uncertainties. At the same time, sales volume will go up and down. And that's natural. For us, it's more important that we build a solid base for the brand and that we continue to build brand awareness. With the right offerings, I have do doubt that Maybach will be successful. How this European carmaker is getting more Americans to drive convertibles originally appeared on
