Honda Passport est un modèle de véhicule utilitaire sport (SUV) qui fait son retour sur le marché en 2015.

If you have the desire for a trip back in time, but about 10 years ago, there are different ways to do it. First, you can try to build a machine like the Delorean from Back to the Future. And good luck with that.

You can also get behind the wheel of a Honda Passport, the intermediate SUV from Honda that has everything it takes to be the best vehicle in its category… for the year 2015.

The Passport is a fairly large SUV, designed to comfortably accommodate five passengers. And it’s true: it’s very comfortable. As is tradition with Honda, the cabin is well insulated, the driving is extremely smooth, and the cabin has just enough usable space to comfortably fit four or even five adults.

Where things get tricky is everywhere else. Both on the dashboard and under the hood, in fact. And let’s also add, in front of the salesperson’s desk, given the price asked for this vehicle that doesn’t offer anything new or competitive compared to what is sold elsewhere.

First, let’s remember that the Passport costs, depending on the chosen version, between $50,000 and $58,000. That’s a lot. We’re not talking about an Audi or BMW SUV here. And for this price, you get an SUV powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that is almost the same as what Honda was selling at the turn of the millennium.

Well, we’re exaggerating, but on paper, it’s practically that. The naturally aspirated V6 (which is not a bad thing, by the way) produces a power of 280 horsepower and a maximum torque of 262 pound-feet. All of this is transmitted to the driving wheels by a 9-speed automatic transmission, which is very modern. It is combined with an electronic variable torque management system to provide the driver with all-wheel drive, which is ultimately the main attraction of the Passport.

After all of this, you might think that the Passport at least has the merit of being powerful and performance-oriented enough to compete with a Hyundai Santa Fe or even a Subaru Outback… but it’s not that simple. The V6 used by Honda lacks muscle. It feels constantly out of breath.

It doesn’t have, in very technical terms, the “oomph” that we would like to see it deploy when we need a sudden acceleration on the highway. If we had to say, we would say that the combination of the V6 and 9-speed transmission might not be optimal.

Especially since at the end of the day, we end up with a consumption of almost 12 liters per 100 kilometers, which is no better than what a comparable midsize SUV was doing in 2015, after all…

Inside as well, we missed out on a few years of upgrades. The multimedia system is a simplified version of a system that Honda and Acura have been using for more than a generation now. The screen is small, the interface is dated, and CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces require a USB connection.

In short, we’re not in 2024 here, but in another era. An era that doesn’t evoke any nostalgia, in fact, which doesn’t help Honda’s cause…

Redwood Project: the famous Tesla Model 2 scheduled for mid-2025?

According to a report from the American agency Reuters a few days ago, Tesla is reportedly surveying its suppliers to find the parts that will allow it to build a new electric car model from the second half of 2025, with a retail price of around $25,000. This is roughly a model that rumors call the Model 2, but which Tesla internally calls the Redwood project.

It is not clear what form this new model would take, but according to anonymous sources cited by Reuters, it would be a smaller family-sized vehicle, commonly known as a “crossover” in English, but slightly smaller than the Model Y. It is worth noting that the Model Y is the best-selling electric vehicle in the world (if not the best-selling vehicle overall).

While the Model Y is very popular, Tesla is no longer the most popular electric car brand in the world. It has just been surpassed by BYD, a Chinese brand that is 60% owned by American interests, including the main one being the investment firm Berkshire Hathaway, owned by billionaire businessman Warren Buffett.

BYD is positioning itself to enter the American market with its electric vehicles that are more affordable than Tesla’s, which obviously caught Elon Musk’s attention.

Musk has been promising a $25,000 electric vehicle since 2020, but it has taken time to materialize for various reasons. Tesla is not the only American company struggling to lower the selling price of its electric vehicles. Even GM, which promised an Equinox EV priced at $30,000 CAD starting last year, has not yet fully delivered on that promise.

The good news in all of this is that there is a sudden interest from manufacturers in electric vehicles whose price will not be higher than that of comparable gasoline vehicles.

2024 is the year of the video game in the automobile.

We often wonder in the first weeks of January what strong theme will define the year in different sectors of the economy, and in the automotive industry, it seems that we already have a candidate for this theme in 2024: video games.

After Mercedes-Benz talked a lot in the past three weeks about the arrival of video games in all their forms on board their future vehicles, it was now Ford and Lincoln’s turn to promise a new video game entertainment offering on their own new releases later this year.

Ford seems to be abandoning the name Sync in favor of a new system called Digital Experience, which is designed to animate the multimedia systems of both Ford and Lincoln vehicles. It will start on board the 2024 Nautilus, a redesigned Lincoln midsize SUV that is expected to be very high-tech.

The Digital Experience system on board the Nautilus takes the form of a huge 48-inch display, which is gigantic, but there will also be smaller versions available on the more affordable Ford vehicles.

In any case, it is the Google Automotive platform that forms the basis of the interface. This allows Ford and Lincoln to directly display Google Maps navigation data, provided of course that the system is connected to a wireless network. By default, Ford will allow its interface to be controlled by voice, by interacting with Google Assistant, but people can also choose to activate Alexa, Amazon’s voice command, which is also part of the Digital Experience system.

Additionally, unlike other manufacturers, Ford continues to offer wireless CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces, just in case.

Finally, going back to video games, Ford’s system will have access to Google’s Play Store, which allows for the download of various entertainment applications, including video games, Ford emphasized. The first game offered is a racing game called Asphalt Nitro, which can be played by pairing a controller via Bluetooth.

Obviously, to play, the vehicle must be parked.

But still, the trend is set…

News about the Apple Car!

The Titan project, as Apple’s secret project to develop an electric car from scratch was called a few years ago, is not as dead as believed. Rumors circulating these days suggest that Apple still has some automotive ambitions, although these ambitions are now much smaller than before the pandemic.

In any case, what is causing a stir in the technology world is the rumor rekindled by Bloomberg that Apple could release a car around 2028, which, if you follow the rumors, is two years later than initially planned.

The supposed reason for this delay is that Apple has not been able to develop a self-driving system that meets its satisfaction. As a result, it had to develop another level 2 system, which is less sophisticated and essentially similar to what General Motors and Tesla already offer.

In any case, it is still unknown where the Apple Car could deploy level 3 or higher autonomous driving. Mercedes-Benz unveiled a CLA concept at CES in early January that will have level 3 autonomous driving, but it will only be functional on a few stretches of highway in Nevada and California.

In conclusion, this is another mystery surrounding Apple to keep an eye on… Remember, for the record, that 15 years ago it was promised that Apple would launch its own very large format 4K television, and that never happened. So, anything can happen.

In the meantime, Sony and Google could also launch their own electric and autonomous vehicles. As the saying goes, there is no smoke without fire…

High-performance versions even in electric for Cadillac.

Cadillac’s management has made a decision: there will soon be high-performance variants of its electric vehicles, similar to the “V” versions of some of its most popular models. For example, the CT4-V, a high-powered version of Cadillac’s compact sedan, is already quite popular.

In fact, the most popular V model in Cadillac’s lineup is the Escalade V, a large luxury SUV spacious enough to accommodate up to seven passengers and powerful enough to go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds.

Earlier this week, a Cadillac executive confirmed to American media that the same approach will be applied to electric vehicles. His exact words were that there will be “more performance-oriented variants regardless of the type of powertrain.”

Currently, Cadillac’s electric offerings are limited to the Lyriq, which is still relatively rare on the roads. The Escalade IQ is coming soon. Eventually, we will also see a production version of the Celestiq, an electric supercar that is expected to compete with Bentley and Rolls Royce, with a retail price of over $300,000 USD.

But there will also be more affordable options: soon we will have the Cadillac Optiq, a full-size SUV that is expected to attract more buyers.

And if recent reports are to be believed, we may also see “V” versions of these models, similar to how Hyundai has already started producing “N” versions of the Ioniq 5.

The Brazilian Elon Musk launches the Lecar.

Brazilian entrepreneur Flavio Figueiredo Assis wants to make a mark in the history of his country by becoming the first local manufacturer of electric vehicles. That’s why this businessman, who openly compares himself to Elon Musk, founded the company Lecar Brasil.

Flavio Assis, who holds degrees in law and accounting, previously created Lecard. With this meal card management tool, he achieved an annual turnover of one billion US dollars, supplying public organizations and private companies. In 2022, he sold his stake in this company to venture into EV manufacturing.

Lecar currently brings together around thirty engineers, many of whom have gained experience at major manufacturers present in Brazil, such as Ford, Toyota, and Nissan, as well as smaller local manufacturers like Gurgel, Troller, and JPX.

Additionally, an assembly plant is currently under construction in Caxias do Sul, in the south of the country. This is where the Lecar 459, the brand’s first model, is expected to be produced. The name is inspired by the founder’s fascination with inventor Nikola Tesla, who had an obsession with the number 9. Unable to use this number alone to designate his sedan, Flavio Assis came up with a clever twist – adding 4 and 5 together equals 9. It’s as simple as that.

More seriously, the 459 model will be available starting at 279,459 Brazilian reals (equivalent to $75,000 at the time of writing). According to the manufacturer, it will be capable of reaching a top speed of 250 km/h and will have a range of 400 km. Lecar is targeting the BYD Seal, a highly regarded Chinese model launched in Brazil last September.

The body of this car will be made of sheet molding compound (SMC), a flexible, sturdy, lightweight, easy-to-repair, and pre-colored material. In fact, only two colors will be available for this model: white or black.

When the prototype of the Lecar 459 was unveiled to the Brazilian press last December, the manufacturer revealed that 65% of its components would be locally sourced, while the rest would come from China, including the motors and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, supplied by Thunder Sky Winston Battery.

Furthermore, a popular five-seater model called Lecar Pop is set to be launched in the future, with a range of 250 km and a starting price of approximately $27,000.

But before that, in February, the designers of the 459 model will have to subject it to a series of aerodynamic and crash resistance tests in London laboratories in order to obtain the necessary certifications.

Optimistic as ever, the CEO of Lecar nevertheless states that he will deliver his first production models in December next year. The company aims to produce 300 vehicles per month by 2025, and within five years, produce 50,000 vehicles per year, which would generate a revenue of $15 billion.

Additionally, Lecar also plans to build its own battery cell production plant in Brazil, aiming to become self-sufficient and facilitate its vehicle production. “We possess 97% of the minerals that make up battery cells in our country. In addition to being self-sufficient, we can also become protagonists and a leading reference in the global electric vehicle market, supplying cars to other countries,” proudly states Flavio Assis. “We are committed to making all of this a reality.”

Photos: Lecar

A Chevrolet Equinox 2025 inspired by the Traverse.

Today, Chevrolet unveiled the fourth generation of the Equinox, which will arrive on the market later this year as a 2025 model. Here is an overview of the standout features of this new version.

Modern and Robust Design

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox shares its design language with the recently launched 2024 Traverse. Its modernized aesthetic, similar to that of the Traverse and the 2024 Trailblazer, gives it a more robust look than the current model. The front end adopts the split headlight theme used by all recently refreshed Chevrolet SUVs.

Exterior Style

On the side, the new Equinox features square wheel arches adorned with black plastic moldings, as well as a semi-floating roof design created by a shortened C pillar. At the rear, there are similarities with other Chevrolet models, including horizontal taillights that extend down to the body’s edge.

Technological Interior

Inside, the 2025 Equinox adopts the same dashboard treatment as most other recent GM models. Two 11-inch screens, one for the instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system, sit atop the dashboard. The infotainment system integrates the Google Built-in system, offering native support for applications such as Google Maps and Google Assistant, with wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Three Versions

In terms of trim levels, Chevrolet is dropping the LS and Premier versions, only offering the LT, RS, and the new Activ models. Each version offers distinct features, from standard heated front seats to blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

1 Engine and Two Transmissions

Under the hood, the 2025 Equinox will be equipped with a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 175 horsepower, similar to the current model. A new addition is the abandonment of the six-speed automatic transmission in favor of a CVT unit for front-wheel drive LT models, or an eight-speed automatic transmission for all-wheel drive versions. All-wheel drive will be available on the LT and standard on the RS and Activ, offering a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.

No Price Yet

Although the cost of the new Equinox has not been announced for the United States and Canada, Chevrolet plans to provide this information closer to the start of production, scheduled for the coming months.

With information from Motor Illustrated

The text Un Chevrolet Equinox 2025 qui s’inspire du Traverse is from L’annuel de l’automobile – Actualité automobile.

Unicamp-USA transforms the Toyota Sienna into a mini RV

After presenting a transformed Kia Carnival into a mini recreational vehicle last year, Unicamp-USA is back with the Toyota Sienna. Earlier this month, the American company announced the launch of a pop-up roof version of this popular Japanese minivan for campers.

Dubbed the Sienna Pop Top, this modified minivan by Unicamp-USA follows the same formula as the previously presented Carnival Pop Top (initially called Univan RT CL). This formula allows for a reasonably sized minivan for family or work during the week, which then serves as a mini RV for weekend getaways.

According to Unicamp-USA, a subsidiary of Caleche Customs, a car body manufacturer in Henderson, Nevada, the electrically assisted pop-up roof module developed for the Sienna is the first of its kind for this Toyota product.

The roof lifts up in 15 seconds with the simple push of a switch. A flexible, reinforced thermosetting plastic canvas unfolds to form a triangular tent that can accommodate a double bed for two adults, with a load capacity of 485 lbs, as specified by Unicamp-USA.

The waterproof canvas allows campers to enjoy a dry stay in nature, as well as stay away from wild animals and mosquitoes thanks to built-in mosquito nets. When it’s time to leave, the canvas folds up in five seconds as the roof lowers.

In addition to the mosquito nets, this module includes storage space and extra lighting.

The transformation of the Sienna into a mini RV will be done in the workshops of Caleche Customs and is available starting at $16,000 USD. This price includes the electric pop-up roof, mattress, and interior trims. The vehicle itself is not included.

It should be noted that this transformation is specifically for the fourth-generation Sienna minivan, the model currently available from the Japanese manufacturer.

Furthermore, Unicamp-USA also offers an additional mattress that can be installed on the folded seats inside the cabin, as well as a kitchen module that can be installed at the rear. This package, apparently identical to the one offered for the Kia Carnival Pop Top, costs $4,000 USD.

In a press release on January 9, Unicamp-USA announced that pre-orders for the Sienna Pop Top are now open and the first deliveries are promised for September 2024.

Like the Kia, the Sienna Pop Top will be built in the workshops of Caleche Customs, a body manufacturer specializing in the construction of shuttles and tourist minibusses.

Photos: Unicamp-USA

Photos of the upcoming electric Jeep Wagoneer accidentally revealed

The person in charge of Jeep’s social media accounts made a mistake by accidentally posting photos of the first electric vehicle for North America. They were removed shortly after, but someone acted quickly and downloaded the images before disappearing from Facebook.

Mopar Insiders was able to obtain these photos of the Wagoneer S from one of their readers, showing the electric SUV in its production version. It appears to be identical to the 2022 concept of the same name, and dare we say it strongly evokes a Range Rover Velar vibe.

Jeep intends to sell the Wagoneer S exclusively as an electric vehicle, with a release planned for this fall. It will not be exclusive to North America, as other markets will have this fifth variant of the Wagoneer. In our market, it will be alongside the gas-powered Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, both of which are offered with an optional longer wheelbase.

The 2025 Wagoneer S will come with all-wheel drive as standard, meaning it will have a pair of electric motors. With a confirmed combined power of 600 horsepower and what can be assumed to be substantial amounts of instant torque, the silent SUV will reach 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.

A few days ago, Jeep’s parent company, Stellantis, revealed full details of its new STLA Large platform. Logic tells us that the Wagoneer S will use this architecture, especially since the automotive conglomerate claims that the first models will be launched in 2024. In fact, it explicitly states that Jeep and Dodge will lead the way, and these initial models will be launched in North America first. Eight EVs across five brands are planned for the market by 2026.

The STLA Large platform has been designed in 400 and 800-volt configurations with battery packs ranging from 85 to 118 kWh. Sedans will offer up to 500 miles of range, but with SUVs inherently being heavier, efficiency is likely to be lower in the case of the Wagoneer S. Vehicles based on this platform will have lengths ranging from 4764 to 5126 millimeters, widths ranging from 1897 to 2030 mm, and wheelbases ranging from 2870 to 3075 mm.

Expect the Jeep electric SUV to become even faster, as Stellantis promises improved “propulsion system performance” updates via over-the-air updates. Although the Wagoneer S is exclusively electric, the STLA Large platform for D and E segment models will support combustion engines and hybrid powertrains.

(source: Motor 1)

Toyota president, Akio Toyoda, predicts that the market share of electric vehicles on the road will never exceed 30%.

The world’s largest car manufacturer argues that its holistic approach to alternative powertrains will ultimately prove to be the right one. Its president believes that battery electric vehicles will reach a maximum market share of 30%, with the rest being occupied by hybrid vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, and fuel cell vehicles.

For the wealthy

With one billion people in the world living without electricity, limiting their choices and ability to travel by manufacturing expensive cars is not the solution, said the company’s founder’s grandson at a recent business event, according to remarks published on the company’s media platform on Tuesday. “It is the customers, not regulations or politics, who need to make this decision,” he said.

Toyota pushing hybrids

The world’s largest automaker defended itself against allegations that it had fallen behind in the transition to electric vehicles, stating that its hybrid powertrains, hydrogen technology, and cautious approach will ultimately prove to be the right approach for the company, customers, and the environment. Earlier this month, Toyoda announced an initiative to develop new combustion engines. “Engines will surely remain,” Toyoda said in the company’s publication. It was unclear whether Toyoda’s remarks referred to sales of new cars or those already in circulation.

Forecasts for Canada and the United States

It is also unclear what Toyoda has in mind for the North American market, where the growth of the EV market share has been slower than expected. According to Bloomberg’s forecasts, EVs will account for 75% of new car sales and 44% of passenger vehicles in circulation by 2040.

Time will tell whether Toyoda is right or wrong

Presented for years by Toyoda, the multi-track approach argues that customers should be able to choose the powertrain that suits their needs and that the transition to EVs will not happen as quickly as many think. Last year, CEO Koji Sato stated that Toyota would sell 1.5 million battery electric vehicles per year by 2026, and 3.5 million by 2030.

With information from Automotive News