Governments spend billions to encourage careful driving, but few achieve results as compelling as Tmap. This South Korean navigation app rewards safe driving in a playful and effective way. As a market leader, Tmap assigns a driving score to its users based on their behavior. It claims to have prevented 31,366 road accidents over three years and already has 19 million participating drivers.

An Ingenious Rewards Program

Introduced in 2016, Tmap’s “Driving Score” program works simply: the driver’s smartphone analyzes acceleration, braking, cornering, and speed. The smoother and safer the driving, the higher the score. This score can even help users get discounts on their car insurance. Out of the 19 million users, over 10 million have already received some form of credit or discount on their policy.

A Unique Alignment of Interests

“It’s one of the few score-based competitions in Korea where everyone benefits from improved results,” explains Chun Ji-yeon, a senior researcher at the Korean Insurance Research Institute. “Safer driving reduces the risk of accidents, insurers save on claims, and drivers save money. It’s a rare alignment of interests.”

Gamification for Safety

The idea is that by accumulating high scores, drivers climb rankings and are rewarded in real time. Integrated into an already widely used app, this feature requires little effort from users to participate and reap the benefits. “When I got a perfect score of 100 last month, I posted it online like a medal,” shares Lee Ji-yeon, a Tmap user.

Tangible Results on Road Safety

Road safety in South Korea is objectively improving. The number of road accidents dropped from 223,552 in 2014 to 198,296 in 2023, and the mortality rate per 100,000 people fell from 9.4 to 5.0. While technology and enforcement remain key drivers, the private model adds a new dimension: it rewards good behavior, something government programs struggle to do on a large scale. Since its launch, the concept has been adopted by other apps and by the car rental company Socar, proving that enthusiasm for safety can spread where public campaigns sometimes fail.

Gran Turismo 7’s Next Update Has a Pointlessly Genius Minivan. While the Chevrolet Corvette CX concepts were expected for the August 2025 update of Gran Turismo 7, a major surprise accompanies them: the Renault Avantime. Kazunori Yamauchi, the creator of the series, confirmed via a teaser on Twitter a four-car update, and this minivan with its atypical design immediately captivated the community.

The Renault Avantime: A Cult and Little-Known Icon

Unlike the continuous stream of recently added compact crossovers, the Avantime is a true automotive eccentricity. This stylish two-door minivan, featuring imaginative engineering, managed to build a cult reputation despite a short commercial career. Its construction incorporated aluminum, its roof was fully glazed, and its two large doors benefited from clever hinges for easier access. Its minimalist dashboard recalled that of a concept car.

A Short but Fascinating History

Produced between 2001 and 2004, Renault sold just over 8,000 units of the Avantime. Its very existence is a testament to boldness, especially since a persistent rumor suggests it was imported to the United States under the Infiniti brand, thanks to the Renault-Nissan alliance.

The Top Gear Legend and Its Gran Turismo Legacy

The Avantime owes part of its notoriety to a famous episode of Top Gear. Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May made it their project: modifying it to make it lap a circuit faster than a Mitsubishi Lancer Evo X. A “Gran Turismo” challenge in real life, perfectly in line with the spirit of the series, which had even included the model in Gran Turismo 4.

Powered by a 3-liter V6 producing 207 horsepower and paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, it delivered respectable performance for its time (0 to 100 km/h in about 9 seconds). In GT7, players will be able to acquire two units: one to keep it original, the other to attempt to replicate, perhaps more successfully, the aborted Top Gear project. The update is scheduled for the morning of Thursday, August 28th.

The 2025 Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo isn’t the fastest version in the lineup, but it might just be the most desirable. After a week of testing, it proves to be an exceptional compromise between elegance, sportiness, and practicality, all wrapped in cutting-edge technology.

A Unique Electric Wagon

Far from conventional SUVs, the Cross Turismo offers a low and sporty driving position, typical of Porsches, even with its 1.8 cm raised ground clearance. Its rear hatch conceals a spacious and smart trunk (15.75 cubic feet), equipped with straps and clever storage to secure loads.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Under the hood, the 4S version boasts 509 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, briefly pushing to 590 horsepower in overboost mode. Despite its 2.5 tons, weight management is remarkable. Equipped with the Active Ride air suspension and the Performance package (torque vectoring, four-wheel steering), the electric wagon is both comfortable and surprisingly agile in corners.

Range and Charging

With its 105 kWh battery (97 kWh net), the official range is 272 miles (438 km). In real-world conditions, expect around 220 miles (354 km). Fast DC charging (320 kW) allows going from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.

Verdict

Starting at $125,200 (and often much more with options), the Taycan 4S Cross Turismo isn’t affordable. But it offers a unique driving experience, combining the comfort of a grand tourer with the agility of a sports car, all in an ultra-elegant and practical wagon format. It’s an unbeatable proposition for those seeking the ultimate family EV.

Next-generation Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and ZR1 models are subject to a voluntary recall and stop-sale order issued by General Motors. The reason? A potential fire risk during refueling.

Which models are affected by the recall?

This safety issue specifically affects the following North American models: the 2023 to 2026 model year Chevrolet Corvette Z06, as well as the 2025 and 2026 Corvette ZR1. The standard Stingray and E-Ray versions are not affected at this time.

What is the cause of the problem?

The identified defect concerns a radiator/fan assembly located on the left side of the vehicle. If excess gasoline is spilled into the filler cap cavity, the fan could propel fuel vapors towards an engine ignition source, creating a risk of “external combustion” and thus fire.

GM’s immediate safety recommendations

While awaiting the availability of a fix, General Motors urges owners to strictly follow the refueling instructions in the owner’s manual:

• ALWAYS ensure the pump nozzle is fully inserted into the fuel pipe.
• NEVER add fuel after the first automatic shut-off click of the pump.
• ALWAYS turn off the vehicle’s engine during refueling.

It is strongly advised against “topping off” the tank after the pump’s automatic shut-off, a practice that can send fuel into unintended passages.

What is the remedy and when will it be available?

The definitive solution will involve Chevrolet dealers installing “an insert or a shield to divert spilled fuel.” However, the parts necessary for this repair are not yet available. GM has confirmed the stop-sale order for affected unsold new vehicles.

An official statement from General Motors

A spokesperson for the manufacturer stated: “General Motors is voluntarily recalling certain models to address a fuel overflow issue during refueling. This is a rare event, and faulty gas station pumps appear to be a contributing factor. The safety of our customers is our highest priority.”

F1 2026 cars will be over a second slower per lap, according to initial FIA simulations. Despite this finding, the governing body states that this performance drop is not a cause for concern, a position that is sparking debate within the Formula 1 community.

Simulations predicting a significant slowdown

Teams are already working hard on the new technical regulations that will come into force in 2026. At this stage, they can only rely on data gathered from simulators and wind tunnels to predict the behavior of their future cars. And these predictions indicate a notable drop in performance.

Nikolas Tombazis, the FIA’s Single-Seater Director, confirmed to Motorsport.com that current simulations predict lap times up to 1.5 seconds slower than current F1 cars, partly due to new aerodynamic designs. He specified: “At the launch of the regulations, the new cars will be between one and two and a half seconds slower. […] but we do not expect lap times to be a talking point.”

FIA surprised by the importance given to lap times

Tombazis’s reaction to the concerns of drivers, teams, and fans is, to say the least, surprising. The experienced engineer, who has worked at Benetton, McLaren, and Ferrari, simply shrugged, saying he was “surprised” and stating that “it actually doesn’t matter.”

He justified his position: “I am a bit surprised by the importance given to lap times. The sport has gone through various phases where cars were slower or faster. Once you get used to it, it’s fine. […] I really don’t think lap times will be a factor once people get used to these cars.”

A debate about the very essence of F1

This lack of concern from the FIA raises questions. How can it be that the pinnacle of motorsport no longer cares about pure performance and the pursuit of speed? If the goal is no longer to go faster, what will the competition focus on? Energy and tire management may take precedence over pure attack, a major philosophical shift.

A cyclical evolution, but increased complexity

As Tombazis rightly points out, F1 has experienced performance drops in the past, often induced by regulation changes for safety reasons or to meet new technological challenges. So, it won’t be the first time that newer cars are slower than their predecessors.

The sticking point remains that these new 2026 cars are presented as being much more complex and much more expensive to develop. The paradox is therefore seeing ultra-sophisticated cars arriving that, ultimately, will post less impressive lap times. The central question remains: for you, is lap time important?

The Chrysler Pacifica Grizzly Peak is a concept that proves off-road adventure isn’t exclusive to SUVs. Chrysler dared to imagine a rugged, adventure-ready version of its Pacifica minivan, a vehicle so convincing it’s surprising it hasn’t been put into production yet.

A Surprisingly Polished Adventure Concept

Although officially presented as a concept, the Pacifica Grizzly Peak features a specific badge, custom upholstery and stitching, and most importantly, it’s fully functional. Provided its impressive 31-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires don’t rub in the wheel wells – which remains the big unknown – this minivan seems ready to go straight from the trail to the auto show.

Technical Modifications for Off-Roading

The preparation is serious: the suspension has been raised by 7 cm at the front and 6.35 cm at the rear, significantly increasing the ground clearance. It is equipped with a Rhino Rack roof rack, a TYRI light bar with Baja Designs fog lights, a retractable ARB awning, and protective film on the rocker panels and bumper.

An Interior Designed for Exploration

Inside, Chrysler has made functional modifications. The third-row bench has been removed to create storage space or even a spot for sleeping bags. There is also a 150V/450W power outlet, new anchor points, and an additional storage compartment under the floor. The vehicle retains its comfortable second-row captain’s chairs.

Conventional Mechanics Remain

Chrysler did not detail the mechanics, other than the presence of all-wheel drive. Since the plug-in hybrid Pacifica is only front-wheel drive, this concept likely uses the 287 horsepower 3.6L Pentastar V6 gasoline engine, with no other announced modifications.

A Niche Market, but a Relevant Concept

While the huge tires seem a bit excessive for mass production, they send a clear message about this van’s intentions. The market for an all-terrain minivan remains niche, but who better than Chrysler, with its Jeep and Ram expertise, to attempt it? The Pacifica Grizzly Peak will be on display at the Overland Expo Mountain West in Colorado.

The Jeep Cherokee has had a long, winding, and, on more than one occasion, interrupted life. Evolving from an enthusiast’s darling to a crossover with intermittent production, its existence has been tumultuous. After a few years of absence, the Cherokee is making a comeback for 2026. It will bolster an expanding Jeep lineup, which recently welcomed the all-electric Wagoneer S and is set to receive the off-road Recon, as well as new versions equipped with Hemi engines.

The Grand Return of a Staple

After years of rising prices and increasing exclusivity, Jeep is doing its best to return to the mainstream. And what do drivers want today? Simply put, hybrids.

Rugged mid-size SUVs are very popular right now. The Cherokee itself helped create this segment. As the saying goes, “Out of sight, out of mind,” isn’t it?

A Hybrid Offensive from Launch

At launch, the Cherokee will be offered in only one configuration: an all-wheel-drive hybrid. A 1.6-liter turbocharged engine is paired with an electric motor and a 1.08 kWh NCM-Graphite battery. It is not a plug-in model.

Total power is rated at 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via a CVT transmission and Jeep’s “Active Drive I” 4×4 system, which includes a single-speed transfer case and automatic torque distribution. Jeep announces a very un-Jeep-like combined fuel economy of 37 MPG.

Pricing and Availability

The 2026 Jeep Cherokee starts at $36,995 (including $1,995 destination fee). Jeep will initially launch the Limited and Overland trims ($42,495 and $45,995 respectively) in the fall. The base and Laredo models ($39,995) will arrive in early 2026.

What About Driving Fun?

Stay tuned. A Trailhawk version is in the works.

The new Jeep Cherokee will remain capable off-road, as CEO Bob Broderdorf affirmed. After an absence of several years, the Cherokee is making its official return. Although the 2026 model is a mid-size vehicle similar to the one it replaces, it will arrive in a radically different automotive landscape, much more competitive and unpredictable.

A Transformed Market for the Cherokee’s Return

The SUV segment has evolved significantly since the last generation of the Cherokee. Jeep will no longer be alone against outdated competition. Toyota has unveiled a new Land Cruiser and a 4Runner, while Subaru and Honda are enhancing the off-road capabilities of their two-row models. Nissan has even announced the upcoming return of the Xterra. By 2025, almost every brand is now an SUV brand.

A Key Positioning for Jeep Dealers

In Jeep dealerships, customers often dream of a Wrangler or a Gladiator but frequently leave driving a Grand Cherokee or a Compass due to budget constraints. The reasonably priced, mid-size Cherokee will offer dealers a third option for buyers limited by their wallets.

Off-Road Heritage Preserved

But the need for volume does not mean that Jeep’s mainstream models have to be boring. CEO Bob Broderdorf wanted to reassure purists: despite market constraints, the new Cherokee will uphold the brand’s 4×4 heritage.

A Trailhawk Version and a Competent Mechanical Base

When asked about his aspirations, Broderdorf assured not only that a Trailhawk version would be introduced but also that even the most basic models would have the fundamental mechanical components to tackle off-road trails. “It’s a Jeep,” he stated emphatically.

A Shared Platform but a Specific Powertrain

The Cherokee is built on the same new platform as other mid-size models from the Stellantis group. However, it will not be the flagship for the brand’s electrification. It will also not feature Jeep’s longitudinal engines. The four-cylinder hybrid powertrain is a transverse (“east-west”) configuration with a traditional mechanical transmission and a driveshaft at the rear. In short: no Hemi in sight.

The only remaining unanswered question is the precise launch timeline.

The Volvo XC90 has always displayed superior elegance compared to its competitors. For its latest restyling, the Swedish manufacturer adds a few extra touches to make its three-row SUV even more attractive, despite a design that is nearly a decade old.

The Basics of the 2025.5 Volvo XC90

After mechanical updates in 2023, Volvo has tweaked the design and technology of its hybrid SUV. Minor modifications, but which together constitute significant improvements.

The grille is now more detailed, the “Thor’s Hammer” LED daytime running lights are sharper, and new wheels energize the silhouette. At the rear, the LED lights are now tinted.

Interior and Technology

Inside, the 9.0-inch portrait touchscreen gives way to an 11.2-inch unit. The system, based on Android Automotive and integrating Google, proved to be much less buggy than that of the EX90. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but curiously, not wirelessly. A large physical volume button and a manually adjustable steering column remain, which is surprising for a luxury SUV costing nearly $90,000.

Driving the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 T8

The T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a 310 horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine with a 145 horsepower electric motor on the rear axle. The combined output reaches 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque, powered by an 18.8 kWh lithium-ion battery.

The transmission is smooth and powerful. Additional soundproofing effectively dampens engine and wind noise. The steering is light, and the optional adaptive air suspension ($1,800) absorbs imperfections with ease.

Space and Practicality

The front seats are among the most comfortable on the market. The second row is suitable for long journeys, and the third, although intended for children, can accommodate adults on short trips. Practically for cargo, a double mattress, its box spring, and frame fit in the back with the second and third rows folded down.

Range, Charging, and Efficiency

The XC90 T8 offers an electric range of 51 km (32 miles) and a combined fuel consumption of 8.7 L/100km (27 mpg). In real-world conditions, the 51 km electric range was achieved, and a 690 km highway road trip showed a consumption of 7.1 L/100km (33.0 mpg), an impressive figure for a three-row SUV.

Charging the 18.8 kWh battery takes about 5 hours on a Level 2 charger (240V), and a full night on a standard household outlet (120V).

Final Verdict

Faced with competition that is slow to offer compelling three-row plug-in hybrids (Audi Q7, BMW X5, Mercedes GLE), the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 T8 remains not only competitive but compelling. It combines useful electric range for the city with highway efficiency, all in an elegant and comfortable package, demonstrating a clear lead in the market.

It is widely accepted that electric vehicles, or electric cars, are more environmentally friendly than their gasoline counterparts. This claim includes the total impact of battery manufacturing and the production of electricity needed for their charging. However, this generalization masks important specifics, such as the most virtuous models or the crucial influence of geographic location.

A Comprehensive Cradle-to-Grave Analysis

The University of Michigan provides a precise answer to these questions through an in-depth study, accompanied by an online calculator. This tool allows for the comparison of greenhouse gas emissions over the entire life cycle of vehicles – from production to disposal, including emissions related to driving and the production of fuel or electricity.

The Decisive Impact of Your Location

The results vary considerably depending on your place of residence. For example, in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, a compact gasoline sedan emits 309 grams of CO2 equivalent per mile. A compact hybrid emits 20% less, a plug-in hybrid 44% less, and an electric vehicle (EV) with a 200-mile range, 63% less. These gains would be even greater in Phoenix, with a 79% reduction for an EV.

Large EVs Outperform Small Combustion Vehicles

The most striking result concerns the comparison between large EVs and small combustion cars. The study shows that the heaviest and largest EV emits only 71% of the CO2 emitted by a compact gasoline car. Thus, over its entire life cycle, a 3.2-ton electric pickup truck (Rivian R1T) is less polluting than a standard Honda Civic.

The Case of Pickups and Freight Transport

Given the popularity of pickups in the United States, the study included the cost of cargo transport. Even with a 1,100 kg load, a 400-mile range electric pickup would produce about 35% of the emissions of an empty gasoline pickup. Note, however, that carrying a load impacts the range of an EV more than that of a combustion vehicle.

An Unequivocal Conclusion

The University of Michigan acknowledges that parameters, such as charging ranges, could refine the analysis. Nevertheless, the main message is clear: any vehicle with an internal combustion engine is more harmful to the environment than any EV. The key takeaway from the researchers is as follows: “Electrifying the powertrain offers greater potential for emission reduction than simply reducing the vehicle size.”