The 2025 Polaris Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar establishes itself as the absolute benchmark in the world of work UTVs. Combining raw power with surprising luxury, this side-by-side pushes the boundaries of what is expected from a utility vehicle. With a price around $52,000 for the tested model, it firmly positions itself in the high-end segment, justifying its status with unparalleled performance and equipment.

Overview and Technical Specifications

At the top of the Polaris Ranger lineup, the XD 1500 model stands out with its angular bodywork and generous dimensions. In its six-seat version, it measures 4.16 meters long with a wheelbase of 3.22 meters. Its three-cylinder, dual overhead cam engine delivers 110 horsepower and 105 lb-ft of torque, a power transmitted via a fully metallic Steeldrive CVT transmission, designed for exceptional durability. Selectable all-wheel drive and a lockable rear differential are standard.

Driving Experience and Performance

Intensive use of the Ranger XD 1500 during demanding tests demonstrated its versatility. Whether hauling gravel loads up to its 680 kg capacity, towing a 1,300 kg trailer, or moving tree logs, the vehicle showed remarkable robustness. Towing stability is excellent, thanks to its long wheelbase and 1,507 kg curb weight.

Comfort and Features

The NorthStar differentiates itself with its incredibly effective air-conditioned cabin, even in the peak of summer heat. The interior is equipped with an infotainment system with a touchscreen, JBL speakers, heated seats, and numerous controls for accessories. The driving comfort is notable, with light steering and a well-tuned suspension.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar has many assets: unmatched comfort, sufficient power for most tasks, high-end equipment, and exceptional versatility. Its main weakness is the lack of a true reduction gear transfer case. In extreme situations, such as climbing a short, steep slope with a massive load, the electronic protection system tends to cut power to protect the clutch, displaying a “CLUTCH OVER TEMP” message.

Competition and Value for Money

The only direct competitor in this engine displacement category is the Mahindra Roxor, equipped with a 2.7-liter turbodiesel. Although less powerful (55 hp), it offers higher torque (144 lb-ft) and a much more accessible price, around $32,000. The Polaris Ranger XD 1500 NorthStar is an exceptional machine, but its price of over $50,000 reserves it for a very specific clientele, unconcerned with frugality, seeking the best in terms of comfort and versatility.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC, the brand’s historic best-seller, is going electric. The German manufacturer is introducing a 100% electric version of its family SUV, which will complement the existing lineup of combustion and plug-in hybrid versions. To attract customers, it is banking on cutting-edge technology, embodied by the optional 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, and very assertive branding with no fewer than 13 Mercedes logos visible on the bodywork. Will you be able to spot them all?

A Strong Mercedes Identity

The first logo is the most obvious, adorning the wide grille. A second one sits on the hood, just above it. By examining the headlights, you’ll discover another one in each of them. The silhouette remains faithful to that of the combustion models, but one detail stands out: each wheel proudly displays the three-pointed emblem, adding four more logos.

The rear is where the electric design stands out the most. The light bar that spans the tailgate incorporates four (4) additional Mercedes-Benz logos. Add to that the classic silver emblem in the center, and the count is complete: 13 stars in total to affirm its belonging to the brand.

Spectacular Lighting Technology

The star at the front is even illuminated. Mercedes claims that the grille alone features 942 light points. As an option, this grille can be customized with special animations for a unique and personalized style.

Performance and Comfort Worthy of a Benz

The top-of-the-line model, the GLC400 4Matic with EQ Technology, develops a power of 483 horsepower. It is equipped with state-of-the-art features like rear-axle steering (4.5 degrees) for optimal maneuverability. The suspension comfort, a Mercedes signature, is ensured by an optional intelligent air suspension, inherited from the S-Class. The towing capacity reaches up to 2,400 kg.

The Interior, a True High-Tech Lounge

The interior is the stage for the most spectacular innovations. The MBUX Hyperscreen, although optional, is expected to be fitted in the majority of vehicles. It is the widest continuous screen ever installed in a Mercedes-Benz (39.1 inches). Eleven background patterns are available, simultaneously modifying the display and ambient lighting to create a unique atmosphere.

Entertainment and Artificial Intelligence

The screen allows for running several video streaming applications, including Disney+. Passengers can thus enjoy their favorite movies or series during long journeys. The audio experience is enhanced by the optional Burmester 3D surround sound system, or even the 4D system that adds tactile bass vibrations in the seats.

Mercedes boasts of offering the world’s first infotainment system to use artificial intelligence from Microsoft and Google. The MBUX virtual assistant draws from both sources to perform each task optimally, even able to switch between them during the same conversation. Presented as a “living” avatar in the shape of a Mercedes logo, it is described as “intelligent, easy to talk to, and empathetic.”

Panoramic Roof and Driving Assistance

The Sky Control panoramic roof, alternating between opacity and transparency on command, remains available. It features nine individually controllable segments, including via voice assistant. To ensure safety, the electric GLC is equipped with an advanced driving assistance system relying on ten external cameras, five radar sensors, and twelve ultrasonic sensors.

Price and Market Positioning

Mercedes has not disclosed the price of the electric GLC, but it will likely be positioned above the plug-in hybrid model GLC 350e 4Matic, priced starting at $60,300 USD. The additional cost for the electric version remains to be confirmed. With this level of technology, Mercedes hopes to offer much more than just an electric powertrain to convince buyers. The success of this strategy will be measured by sales in the coming year.

A new prototype of the 2026 Porsche Cayenne Coupe EV has been spotted on the Nürburgring track. This time, it’s a new mystery variant, and the key to its identity may lie in another electric Porsche we already know very well: the Taycan.

The Taycan’s Legacy in Nomenclature

So far, Porsche hasn’t strayed too far from its roots when naming the trims of its electric vehicles, even going so far as to reuse (somewhat controversially) the “Turbo” designation despite the obvious absence of any turbocharger. We’ve seen this on the Taycan, which is relevant because the electric sedan lineup gives us a very good idea of what we have here: a Turbo GT.

Performance That Promises to Be Blistering

We’ve already seen how incredibly fast the Cayenne EV prototypes are. Therefore, we have no doubt that this version will rival the lower and more aerodynamic Taycan GT and will likely only be narrowly outperformed by it. The prototype that Porsche showcased at the Goodwood Festival of Speed earlier this year completed the circuit in 31.28 seconds, shattering the previous SUV record by over four seconds.

Aerodynamic and Distinctive Design

To Porsche’s credit, the rear wing and redesigned bumper draw attention away from the Coupe’s body lines, which are reminiscent of Tesla’s. It retains the high beltline that distinguishes the Coupe from the standard Cayenne (even on the combustion versions). The design of this truncated crossover has always been controversial. It seems this one will be no exception.

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A man from Prince George, British Columbia, recently demonstrated a spectacular lack of judgment. Last Friday, he was intercepted by police while making a trip to buy a Slurpee… driving a pink children’s Power Wheels Jeep. While he might have gotten away with it by avoiding rush hour, the individual chose audacity, with unfortunate consequences.

A Not-So-Discreet Expedition for a Slurpee

According to Canadian media Global News, the man, sporting Pit Viper-style sunglasses and a t-shirt proclaiming “Let’s do it the stupidest way possible,” had borrowed the toy, which belonged to his roommate’s daughter. His mission: to go to the nearest convenience store. He attempted to justify his actions by stating: “It wasn’t a high-speed chase. I waited until it was safe, and when I crossed the road, I was using my hand signals.”

Canadian Law is Clear

Unfortunately for him, the police officers did not find the situation amusing. After breathalyzer tests revealed a blood alcohol level above the legal limit, he received a 90-day driving prohibition and a court summons. The fact that he was already subject to a driver’s license suspension likely explains why he had opted for this one-seat Barbiemobile rather than a conventional car.

The Broad Definition of “Motor Vehicle”

Canadian authorities indeed consider that “any vehicle operating on a public roadway that is propelled by something other than muscular power falls within the definition of a motor vehicle and requires a licensed driver and insurance.”

An Important Reminder

This incident serves as a friendly reminder: law enforcement is far less likely to see the humor in this kind of prank when multiple offenses are committed simultaneously. A DUI, regardless of the nature of the wheeled vehicle, will almost always get you into trouble. Meanwhile, the young owner of the Barbie Jeep has, fortunately, recovered her property.

The Polestar 5 weighs nearly 1000 pounds more than a Porsche Taycan. You’ve probably already spotted the Polestar 5 and thought: “Wow, that’s really sleek.” It is arguably the most beautiful model in the lineup, and it produces an impressive 884 horsepower. Polestar itself presents the 5 as a direct competitor to Porsche, with its technical features positioning it as a rival to the Panamera and the Taycan. On paper, the competition seems tight, but one detail stands out: the substantial weight of the Polestar 5, hovering around 5600 pounds.

A Striking Weight Comparison

For comparison, the lightest Taycan (rear-wheel drive) weighs 4,630 pounds. Even the heaviest version, the Turbo Cross Turismo, remains well below at 5,196 pounds. This gap is explained by several factors. Besides the fact that the Polestar will only be offered with all-wheel drive (AWD), it also features a larger battery and embodies a Grand Touring philosophy, unlike the Porsche, which is more focused on pure sport.

The Decisive Role of the Battery

The Polestar 5 is equipped with a 112 kWh battery pack, giving it a claimed range of 351 miles (WLTP cycle). The Taycan, on the other hand, has a smaller 105 kWh battery. While the final weight of the Polestar’s battery hasn’t been officially confirmed, it is very likely that it exceeds that of the Porsche, whose battery alone weighs 1,389 pounds. The general rule is that each kWh of capacity adds between 13 and 17 pounds. A difference of 7 kWh could therefore represent a weight surplus of 91 to 119 pounds for the Polestar.

Construction Philosophy and Platforms

The overall construction also plays a role. The Polestar 5 is 200.3 inches long, compared to 195.4 for the Taycan. Its new platform, the Polestar Performance Architecture, is based on a welded and riveted aluminum structure, known for its strength-to-weight ratio. It’s possible that Polestar had to use more materials to achieve its rigidity targets. In contrast, the Taycan’s critically acclaimed J1.2 platform blends aluminum and steel at the B-pillars and roof for optimal robustness without excessive weight gain.

Grand Tourer vs. Pure Sports Car

Finally, the fundamental difference lies in their DNA: the Polestar 5 is a Grand Tourer, while the Taycan is a high-end sports car. Polestar has designed a car that competes more directly with the Porsche Panamera (which weighs up to 5,302 pounds in its Turbo E-Hybrid version). Like the Panamera, the Polestar 5 prioritizes interior space, acoustics, and comfort technologies. These elements, although impossible to quantify precisely, undoubtedly tip the scales.

Conclusion: Two Distinct Visions of Electric Performance

The verdict is therefore no surprise. If you’re looking for a high-performance machine with race-bred handling, the Porsche Taycan remains the benchmark. But if you desire a luxurious and spacious electric Grand Tourer, the Polestar 5 presents itself as a bold and stylish alternative to the Porsche tradition.

Toyota is remanufacturing AE86 engine parts to keep the best Corolla alive. About five years ago, the Japanese automaker launched the GR Heritage Parts program, dedicated to reproducing components for its legendary models. This program initially covered third and fourth-generation Supras, older Land Cruisers, and even the rare 2000GT. It later expanded to more accessible sports cars like the AE86 Corolla Levin and Sprinter Trueno, although initially it only involved certain chassis parts and for a limited time. Today, Toyota is taking a step further by adding reproduction engine parts to its catalog, specifically for the 4A-GE, the much-coveted 1.6-liter 16-valve inline-four of the AE86 twins.

Modernized Parts Thanks to Enthusiast Feedback

AE86 owners in need of new cylinder head and engine block sub-assemblies are in luck. Toyota is not just reproducing these parts with modern materials and precision; the company has also incorporated community feedback. For example, engineers thickened the walls of the intake and exhaust ports in the new block sub-assembly – a modification directly attributed to fan requests at events.

The Benefits of Current Manufacturing Methods

Current manufacturing methods enhance these components in multiple ways. The combustion chambers in the cylinder head sub-assembly benefit from “additional machining” aimed at standardizing performance between engines with slightly different compression ratios. A coating process for the intake ports reduces surface irregularities that are detrimental to performance. Finally, the addition of cam pins allows for an “improvement in assembly handling.”

A More Precise and Robust Engine Block

The engine block is not left behind. Its bores can now be machined to a degree of precision impossible 40 years ago. The use of more rigid cast iron, coupled with a redesign of the crankshaft cap structure (optimized through simulation), enhances the part’s durability. Bosses and ribs have also been integrated into the design, allowing the engine to be mounted transversely for front-wheel-drive applications, beyond the rear-wheel-drive AE86 twins.

Availability and Legacy

If you are in Japan this weekend, Toyota will be selling these parts for the first time at Fuji Speedway during the 30th-anniversary event of Initial D. For others, acquisition might be more complicated, even without considering current international shipping issues. With these new components for the AE86, Toyota now markets over 200 spare parts covering eight classic models, thus perpetuating their legacy for future generations of enthusiasts.

Contrary to appearances of an imminent shipwreck, Bollinger Motors is making a decisive strategic shift. The electric vehicle manufacturer, based in Oak Park, Michigan, is reinventing itself by focusing on the commercial market, a bold pivot that could well secure its survival and future.

Promising Beginnings Against the Backdrop of the American Dream

Founded by Robert Bollinger, the company was born from a simple vision on his organic farm in New York State: to design an electric truck that is both powerful and enjoyable to drive. The project, which began in a garage before moving to the cradle of the American automobile industry, Michigan, promised robust and “purpose-built” vehicles, entirely designed around an electric architecture.

Abandoning the B1 and B2 Models in Favor of Utility Vehicles

The ambitious B1 and B2 SUVs, with a design inspired by the Defender and equipped with innovative features like a full pass-through in the chassis, were intended to appeal to the general public. But the COVID-19 pandemic and economic realities put an end to these projects. Their limited range (200 miles), significant weight, and high cost became prohibitive. Bollinger had to put them on hold to focus on a priority: generating revenue with commercial vehicles, such as the B4 delivery van, which can be quickly delivered to corporate fleets.

The B4, Spearheading a New Era

Today, the B4 van embodies this new direction. Based on an 800-volt platform designed from the outset to be “future-proof,” it is constantly improved through customer feedback. Its tight turning radius (42 feet) and efficient design make it an ideal work tool, more pleasant and quieter than a comparable internal combustion vehicle. Bollinger is betting on its agility, an advantage over large established manufacturers, to quickly adapt its products.

The Challenges and Strengths of the New Bollinger Motors

The path remains fraught with obstacles. The current political climate, sometimes hostile to electrification, and the complexity of obtaining state subsidies (which can reach up to $120,000 per vehicle in New York) are significant challenges. Despite partially empty facilities and the departure of its founder, the company, now under the umbrella of Bollinger Innovations and partnered with Mullen Automotive, remains hopeful. Its major strength? A 71% American-made manufacturing process, a powerful argument for winning government tenders. The pivot is underway, and for the first time in five years, the path to the future seems clear.

BMW is preparing to launch an unprecedented product offensive. The German manufacturer has indeed announced its intention to renew its entire lineup within just two years. No fewer than 40 vehicle launches, either new or refreshed, are planned.

The Neue Klasse: A New Design Language for BMW

This aggressive strategy aims to deploy the new “Neue Klasse” design language across the entire line. Expect cleaner lines, the removal of chrome elements, and illuminated interpretations of the famous “Kidney” grille that will equip current and future models.

Other Players in the Luxury Automotive Industry Are Not Standing Still

This announcement from BMW comes in a highly dynamic premium automotive landscape.

Polestar Refocuses Its Strategy

Polestar has paused the development of the Polestar 6 electric roadster to focus on the Polestar 7 and the next generation of the Polestar 2. These vehicles, aimed at the European market, promise higher sales volumes. The brand’s new design director has also emphasized the need to introduce bolder colors into the lineup.

Porsche and the $1,310 Option

At Porsche, purists can lighten their 911 with an exclusive option: carbon fiber windshield wipers, available for the modest sum of $1,310.

The Screen War Rages at Mercedes

Rivalries are also intensifying. The head of design at Mercedes-Benz did not mince words when criticizing BMW’s new interiors, which he deems “distracting,” and those of Audi, which he compares to a design “straight out of 1995.” Mercedes, for its part, is betting everything on a fully digital approach with its all-screen dashboards.

Aston Martin and Mercedes Celebrate and Innovate

Aston Martin is celebrating 60 years of convertibles with two special and very limited editions: the DB12 and Vanquish Anniversary of Volante Editions, each produced in only 60 units. Paradoxically, Mercedes-Benz, while moving towards an electric future, is also developing a brand new V8 engine, proving that internal combustion is not down for the count.

Copart, an international giant in the auto parts market and vehicle auctions, is experiencing remarkable prosperity. The company is reporting an increase in revenue, gross margin, and net income for the quarter and the year. During a recent earnings presentation, analysts and Copart’s CEO, Jeff Liaw, detailed how the company is using artificial intelligence to transform its business.

AI to Assess and Value Damaged Vehicles

For an operation like Copart’s, which handles a colossal volume of often similar transactions, the deployment of AI is particularly relevant. Instead of using physical inspection tools, Copart leverages AI for tasks such as vehicle price evaluation and the decision to scrap vehicles (“totaled”), all based on the analysis of massive data.

In practice, this means calculating the cost of estimated repairs relative to the vehicle’s value much faster than before. This speed of analysis is already influencing insurance premiums and the value of used cars globally, even affecting the international distribution of vehicles.

The Growing Complexity of Modern Vehicles

An intriguing phenomenon is at play: although the severity of accidents is declining, the rate of vehicles declared economically irreparable (“total loss frequency”) is rising. Copart’s teams attribute this to the increasing complexity of modern cars, making them more expensive to repair. A striking example: a 2024 F-150 taillight costs over $1000.

CEO Jeff Liaw specified: “The frequency of total losses has generally increased at a rate far exceeding the decline in the frequency of accidents themselves. In the United States, it stood at 22.2% in the second quarter of 2025, compared to 21.5% a year earlier.”

A Dynamic International Market

Irreparable vehicles are mostly exported. Cheaper labor abroad and the possibility of obtaining a new title for them make their restoration financially viable. Liaw notes that international buyers account for about 40% of the vehicles sold at auction in the United States by Copart, generating nearly half of the proceeds.

AI, the Ultimate Arbiter of Vehicle Value

Car auctions like Copart maintain a unique relationship with sales data and repair viability. They react to these values and simultaneously define them, creating a self-reinforcing loop.

AI only accelerates and amplifies this process. By evaluating vehicles with an unparalleled amount of data, it becomes the ultimate arbiter of their value, dictating what should be repaired or scrapped, and ultimately, the cost of insuring certain models.

The CEO’s Remarks on Copart’s AI Strategy

When questioned by analysts, Jeff Liaw detailed the use of AI: “We equip our sellers with tools to make instant total loss decisions, informed by millions of similar vehicles sold in the past. These decision-support tools are greatly powered by large language model (LLM) technologies.”

AI is also deployed in customer support, agent support, and even at the auction level to recommend products to buyers. Liaw concluded by stating that this technology makes Copart radically more efficient and paves the way for future opportunities, even announcing that a dedicated presentation on their use of AI might take place.

The Ferrari Testarossa makes its grand return! Named the Ferrari 849 Testarossa, this new supercar from Maranello is a model with a decidedly attractive design, even though the pop-up headlights, unfortunately, are not part of the package.

An Iconic Design Reinterpreted

Unveiled in Milan, the 849 Testarossa revives one of the brand’s most iconic names, immortalized by the hit series Miami Vice. While it retains a wedge-shaped silhouette, its design is more forward-looking than purely retro. The front end, with its pointed nose and aggressive air intake, however, evokes the original Testarossa. The three-quarter rear view, on the other hand, recalls the Daytona SP3, with its sloping roof and broad shoulders.

A Phenomenal Hybrid Powertrain

True to the heritage of the “red heads,” the new Testarossa is powered by a mid-rear-mounted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8. It is a plug-in hybrid, similar to the phenomenal 296 GTB. The internal combustion engine alone develops 819 horsepower, but aided by three electric motors (two on the front axle, one at the rear), the combined power reaches a stratospheric level of 1,036 horsepower.

Record-Breaking Performance

Ferrari announces a 0 to 100 km/h in 2.3 seconds and a 0 to 200 km/h in 6.3 seconds, figures that the brand tends to underestimate. In all-electric mode, it can travel up to 30 km at a maximum speed of 130 km/h.

A Driver-Focused Interior

Inside, there is no traditional central screen. The infotainment screen is integrated into the digital cluster in front of the driver, while the passenger has their own screen. The gear selector is a nod to the past, adopting a traditional design inspired by old gated shifters.

Spider and Coupé Unveiled Simultaneously

Unlike its usual practice, Ferrari unveiled the Spider version at the same time as the Coupé, sporting a mustard yellow livery that beautifully highlights its angular lines. The price, however, remains a mystery… for those who need to ask.