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USA Today
29-06-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
2026 Ford Explorer Tremor SUV gets new off-road chops, more style
The 2026 Ford Explorer's off-road credibility is in for a boost when the midsize SUV adds a model with the automaker's popular Tremor badge later this year. The Explorer Tremor adds gear, including three steel skid plates, increased ground clearance and a Torsen rear differential. The 2026 Explorer Tremor also gets handsome visual upgrades from bright LED off-road lights across a new grille to 'Electric Spice' orange details. 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor Ford key facts On sale late 2025 Standard four-wheel drive 3.0L twin-turbo V6 or 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder engine 400-hp maximum power 10-speed automatic transmission 31.5-inch Bridgestone all-terrain tires 18-inch gloss black painted wheels with orange highlight Electric spice orange highlights Assembled in Chicago Price: TBA Taking the Explorer off-road — for real, this time The Tremor should add meaningful capability compared with the Explorer's short-lived Timberline trim, which was about looks more than function. Ford discontinued the Timberline after the 2024 model year. The Tremor is an outdoorsy model mirroring the performance-oriented ST in the Explorer lineup. ST prices start at $56,770. It's not unreasonable to expect the Tremor in the same neighborhood. Tremors will be available with either a 2.3L four-cylinder or 3.0L V6 engine. The only performance figures Ford has revealed is 400 hp from the twin-turbo V6. Towing capacity is 5,000 pounds. A 14-speaker B&O audio system will be available. The Explorer is the second Ford SUV to get a Tremor model, following the Expedition. There are also Tremor models of Ford's pickups. What makes the Explorer Tremor special? The Explorer Tremor's front corners were carved out so the front wheels can tackle big rocks without damaging the fascia. Selecting a new off-road mode modifies throttle response, shift points, traction control, power distribution, 360-degree trail view and an inclinometer. Other unique Tremor touches include: The Tremor will be the first vehicle with the 1.5 version of Ford's Blue Cruise hands-free driving system, which adds fully automatic lane changes to its other features. It shares the upgrades the 2025 Explorer received, including Google navigation, apps and music. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remain standard equipment. Ford is taking orders for the Explorer Tremor now. Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
USA Today
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
2025 Volvo XC90 T8 review: Plug-in luxury with smooth power and smart style
I'm sharing my impressions of vehicles after living with them for a few days, or as a make or model evolves. The car this week is the 2025 Volvo XC90 AWD T8. What is it? It's a plug-in hybrid version of Volvo's six- or seven-seat three-row luxury SUV. Volvo calls it a 2025.5 model, but U.S. regulations, which govern model years, don't recognize half-model years. (Sorry, Mustang fans; there wasn't a 1964.5 either.) How much? I tested an $80,700 XC90 T8 AWD Ultra. Prices start at $57,400. Prices exclude $1,295 destination charge and import tariffs. How's it selling? The XC90 is one of Volvo's core vehicles. It sold 39,492 in 2024 and 39,920 in 2023. The updated 2025 went on sale in December. Volvo has sold 16.744 XC90s so far in 2025. U.S. tariffs may affect XC90 prices and availability. What I liked most the first time I drove the XC90 Typical Volvo style and safety. Quiet ride, smooth power. 2025 Volvo XC90 pricing, selected models Source: Edmunds. All prices exclude $1,295 destination charge and import tariffs. 2026 Cadillac Vistiq: The 'baby Escalade' EV SUV you've been waiting for What does it compete with? It competes with the Acura MDX hybrid, Cadillac Vistiq EV, Hyundai Ioniq 9, Kia EV9, Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid and Tesla X EV. Why I want it Room, comfort and sustainability. Volvo says owners worldwide average 48% of their miles driven on electric power. The 2.0L turbocharged engine and electric motor deliver 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. The interior is roomy, attractive and safe ― Volvo hallmarks. The interior is quiet at highway speeds and the air suspension delivers a smooth ride and commendable handling for a big heavy vehicle. What needs work Key features Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
USA Today
22-06-2025
- Automotive
- USA Today
2026 Cadillac Optiq-V: 519-HP electric SUV hits 60 MPH in 3.5 seconds
Cadillac's V-series performance line goes electric with a 73% power increase to the brand's new Optiq compact SUV. The Optiq-V accelerates to 60 mph in 3.5-seconds and goes on sale this fall. Priced at $67,300, plus $1,495 destination charge, the Optiq-V will compete with sporty compact SUVs from Mercedes-AMG, BMW M Sport and Lexus F-Sport. Based on what we know now ― price, looks and features ― it could be a formidable competitor. In addition to a whopping 219 horsepower increase from two new electric motors, the all-wheel-drive Optiq-V gets continuously adaptive ZF shock absorbers and aerodynamic upgrades. The V-series, now in its fifth generation, accounts for about 10% of Cadillac sales. 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V Key figures More power and performance drive modes The Optiq-V's twin electric motors ― one on each axle for AWD ― are the ones used in Cadillac's midsize Lyriq EV. They're bigger than the base Optiq, which produces 300 hp and 354 pound-feet of torque. The V's 10-module battery is the same size at the base Optiq. The Optiq-V gets unique performance software, including: Ambient lighting complements drive modes. ZF continuously adaptive shocks and Brembo front brake calipers are standard. All-season or summer 21-inch tires are available. Key features Accent colors and V-logos The V-package also includes a black roof. Other visual touches include blue exterior accents, optional red or blue front brake calipers that have the V-series logo, which is repeated inside out. The V gets two exclusive colors: Magnus Metal Frost and Deep Ocean Tintcoat. Blue seat belts and seat backs are available. Luxury vehicles: 2025 Cadillac Escalade adds EV style, 55-inch screen, power doors A carbon fiber package includes a rear spoiler and front valence. Cadillac will sell the Optiq-V in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Middle East. It'll be the first General Motors vehicle with a factory-installed NACS charging port for access to Tesla DC chargers. An adapter will be available for CCS ports. 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V at a glance 2026 Cadillac Optiq-V at a glance All-wheel drive five-seat luxury performance SUV Base price: $67,300 (All prices exclude $1,450 destination charge) On sale: Fall 2025 Power: Two electric motors, one on each axle Output: 519 hp; 650 pound-feet of torque Transmission: Single-speed automatic Battery: 85 kWh lithium-ion Charging time: 240v: 18-31 mph; DC fast charge: 70 miles in 10 minutes. 0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds Wheelbase: 116 inches inches Length: 190 inches Width: 84 inches including mirrors Height: 65 inches Passenger volume: 100.1 cubic feet Cargo capacity: 26 cubic feet behind second row, 57 behind first row Towing capacity: None Curb weight: 5,445 pounds Assembled in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico Contact Mark Phelan: mmphelan@ Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
