Car News Today: February 25, 2025
Welcome to your daily dose of the latest automotive headlines. Today’s edition covers AMG’s reported change of heart regarding its four-cylinder hybrid, the competitive pricing of Cupra’s new sporty electric vehicle, the unveiling of MG’s new contender in the seven-seater SUV market, and Ram’s exciting new technology aimed at improving fuel economy.
AMG’s Four-Cylinder Hybrid Fiasco: V8 Returns
Reports from the UK’s Autocar suggest that the upcoming CLE 63 Coupe, the replacement for the C63 Coupe, might skip the four-cylinder hybrid powertrain used in the C63 S E Performance. Instead, it will likely feature a new twin-turbo V8 engine. This decision is reportedly a response to the lukewarm reception of the current plug-in C63. The V8 is expected to be an evolution of the ‘M177’ twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 engine found in the last C63 model. The new engine will ditch the cross-plane crankshaft for a flat-plane crank, technology first introduced in the AMG GT Black Series. This modification allows for higher engine revs and a more compact design. A mild-hybrid system is also in development.
Industry insiders anticipate that the current C63 will replace its four-cylinder hybrid with the V8 during its mid-life refresh scheduled for 2026.
2025 Cupra Tavascan: Competitive Pricing for Sporty EV SUV
Cupra has announced pricing for its second electric car, the Tavascan. Positioned above the Born, it will compete with the Tesla Model Y and Kia EV5, bringing Cupra’s signature sporty design to the market. Thanks in part to tariff-free imports from China, the Tavascan has an impressive starting price of $60,990 (before on-road costs). The Tavascan will be available in two trims: the ‘Endurance’ with a 534km driving range and the high-performance VZ flagship, which boasts 250kW/545Nm. Customers will also have plenty of customization options.
Cut-Price MG Seven-Seater is on the Way
MG’s long-awaited three-row family SUV is now confirmed to be named the QS, following approval of government documents on Monday. These documents indicate that front and all-wheel-drive versions will utilize a 153kW 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine linked to a nine-speed automatic transmission. Notably, there is no hybrid powertrain listed. Similar to the new MG HS, the QS is based on the China-market Roewe RX9 model. Other specifications include a 2000kg braked towing capacity, a length of 4983mm, a width of 1967mm and an optional sunroof.
Ram’s “Secret Weapon” to Tackle Fuel Efficiency
Ram boss Tim Kuniskis has revealed that their new Ramcharger range extender is the key to lowering emissions and satisfying customers who are unsure about going fully electric. The range-extender setup is expected to provide a driving range of 1100km. Additionally, it should propel the 3400kg pick-up from 0-100km/h in less than 5.0 seconds. With 480kW, it will be a serious competitor, challenging the BYD Shark and Ford Ranger Raptor.
Mini Cooper S Convertible 2025 Review
Stephen Dobie reviewed the Mini Cooper S Convertible in Europe prior to its Australian launch. Though he noted that the refreshed Mini isn’t entirely new under the skin and that gearshift paddles are a paid option, he found its balance and powertrain enjoyable. Full Review: Read Here
