Electric Cars

Cars

Car Show

Car Maintenance

Racing

English

Cars

Bentley's Bold Off-Road Vision: The Bentayga X Concept

Slide 10
Slide 1
Slide 2
Slide 3
Slide 4
Slide 5
Slide 6
Slide 7
Slide 8
Slide 9
Slide 10
Slide 1

Bentley introduces the Bentayga X Concept, a groundbreaking iteration of its luxury SUV, built to conquer demanding off-road landscapes. This concept, derived from the powerful Bentayga Speed, is equipped with a robust 641-horsepower twin-turbo V8 engine, enhanced suspension, and specialized all-terrain tires. Unveiled at the FAT Ice Race in Austria, it serves as a litmus test for market interest in a more rugged, adventure-ready Bentley, potentially reshaping the brand's future offerings for discerning adventurers.

Bentley's Off-Road Vision Debuts in Austria

In a bold move to explore new market segments, Bentley has introduced the Bentayga X Concept, an off-road-capable version of its luxurious Bentayga SUV. This innovative vehicle made its highly anticipated debut at the FAT Ice Race in Zell am See, Austria, captivating onlookers with its unique blend of opulence and rugged functionality. The X Concept, built upon the foundation of the high-performance Bentayga Speed, boasts a potent twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivering an impressive 641 horsepower, ready to tackle diverse terrains. Key enhancements include a wider track, significantly increased ride height, extended wheel arches, and an array of auxiliary lighting for superior visibility in challenging conditions. The vehicle features a ground clearance of 12.2 inches and a wading depth of nearly two feet, underscoring its serious off-road aspirations. Notably, the concept is fitted with forged 22-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Adding a whimsical yet functional touch, the Bentayga X Concept also showcases an electric go-kart on its roof rack, designed for the FAT Karting League, catering to younger enthusiasts.

This venture by Bentley signals a compelling shift in the luxury SUV market. As consumers increasingly seek vehicles that offer both premium comfort and genuine off-road capability, the Bentayga X Concept represents a forward-thinking response to this evolving demand. This concept challenges the traditional perception of luxury SUVs as purely road-bound vehicles, suggesting a future where high-end brands like Bentley cater to a broader spectrum of adventurous lifestyles. The positive reception at its Austrian premiere hints at a promising future for more robust, yet undeniably luxurious, automotive explorations.

Ford's Shifting EV Strategy: Balancing Chinese Innovation with Domestic Concerns
Cars

Ford's Shifting EV Strategy: Balancing Chinese Innovation with Domestic Concerns

Super Bowl Road Trip: Driving the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E-Performance from Atlanta to New Orleans
Cars

Super Bowl Road Trip: Driving the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E-Performance from Atlanta to New Orleans

2027 Kia Telluride vs. 2026 Hyundai Palisade: An In-Depth Comparison
Cars

2027 Kia Telluride vs. 2026 Hyundai Palisade: An In-Depth Comparison

Cars

The Enduring Compact Hatchbacks in America

Slide 36
Slide 1
Slide 2
Slide 3
Slide 4
Slide 5
Slide 6
Slide 7
Slide 8
Slide 9
Slide 10
Slide 11
Slide 12
Slide 13
Slide 14
Slide 15
Slide 16
Slide 17
Slide 18
Slide 19
Slide 20
Slide 21
Slide 22
Slide 23
Slide 24
Slide 25
Slide 26
Slide 27
Slide 28
Slide 29
Slide 30
Slide 31
Slide 32
Slide 33
Slide 34
Slide 35
Slide 36
Slide 1

While the American automotive market has seen a decline in compact hatchback offerings, a core group of resilient models continues to cater to enthusiasts and practical-minded drivers alike. Once abundant, the subcompact hatchback segment has virtually disappeared, largely replaced by the burgeoning popularity of subcompact crossovers, which often provide only marginal gains in interior volume. However, the compact hatchback category, though reduced in number, still boasts a selection of highly competitive vehicles that deserve consideration.

Among the noteworthy contenders, the Honda Civic Hatchback stands out for its refined driving experience and practical cargo capacity, available in both conventional and hybrid powertrains, alongside the high-performance Type R variant. Kia's K4 Hatchback bravely enters the U.S. market, distinguishing itself with impressive spatial efficiency that rivals mid-size sedans. The Mazda3, despite being an older model, continues to impress with its engaging driving dynamics and a wide range of trims, including a potent turbocharged all-wheel-drive option. For those prioritizing all-wheel drive, the Subaru Impreza Hatchback offers a compelling and affordable choice, opting for a hatchback-only configuration in its latest generation. Lastly, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback maintains its reputation for reliability and efficiency, with the exhilarating GR Corolla providing a performance-oriented alternative, while the Toyota Prius, though technically a liftback, offers an excellent hybrid solution with a sleek design.

The enduring presence of these compact hatchbacks underscores their inherent value and adaptability. They offer a compelling blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and driving enjoyment that can often surpass the perceived benefits of smaller crossovers. By focusing on these remaining options, consumers can discover vehicles that are not only economically sound but also provide a more engaging and versatile driving experience, challenging the prevailing trend towards SUVs and reaffirming the lasting appeal of the well-designed hatchback.

See More
Bentley Explores Off-Road Segment with New Bentayga 'X' Concept
Cars

Bentley Explores Off-Road Segment with New Bentayga 'X' Concept

1972 Saab Sonett III: A Poetic Masterpiece on Wheels
Cars

1972 Saab Sonett III: A Poetic Masterpiece on Wheels

Cars

Cars

A Timeless Performance Gem: The 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 ACR

Slide 4
Slide 1
Slide 2
Slide 3
Slide 4
Slide 1
Explore the fascinating legacy of the 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 ACR, a vehicle that brilliantly combined affordability with thrilling performance, standing as a testament to an era when powerful cars were within everyone's reach.

Unleash the Nostalgia: Experience the Raw Power and Affordability of the 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 ACR!

The Golden Era of Accessible Performance: A Look Back at Budget-Friendly Speed Machines

In today's automotive landscape, finding a performance car that offers both excitement and an affordable price tag is a challenge. Modern counterparts like the Honda Civic Si and Hyundai Elantra N, while capable, often come with price points exceeding $30,000 to $35,000 for horsepower figures ranging from 200 to just over that. This starkly contrasts with a bygone era when manufacturers readily offered potent, turbocharged compact cars at wallet-friendly prices, delivering exhilarating driving experiences without the premium cost. This golden age of accessible speed is a fond memory for many enthusiasts.

Discovering a Rare Find: The 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4 ACR on the Auction Block

A remarkable example of this performance-meets-affordability philosophy is the 2005 Dodge Neon SRT-4, especially when equipped with the coveted ACR package. This particular model, currently featured on Bring a Trailer (a platform associated with Car and Driver), represents a unique blend of high-octane excitement and no-frills functionality. It features a robust 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, surprisingly paired with classic crank-operated rear windows, embodying its utilitarian yet potent nature. Further enhancing its performance credentials are a limited-slip differential and a specially reinforced suspension system. The interior, though characterized by modest-grade plastics, speaks to its focus on driving dynamics over luxury. Such an offering of raw, affordable fun is increasingly scarce in the contemporary market.

Unleashing the Beast: The SRT-4's Potent Powertrain and Track-Ready Enhancements

The 2005 SRT-4 originally boasted an impressive 230 horsepower from the factory. For those seeking even more power, a range of Mopar tuning components and software upgrades allowed owners to push the output past the 300-horsepower mark without a significant financial outlay. This level of power was once sufficient to outperform more prestigious V-8 muscle cars of its time. Beyond sheer speed, the SRT-4 and its ACR variant were meticulously engineered for superior handling and track performance. Key upgrades included a competition-grade suspension system with adjustable caster bars and reinforced Mopar shock tower supports. Enhanced braking components and 16-inch BBS wheels, shod with Michelin tires, further contributed to its track prowess. The interior featured aggressively bolstered seats, designed to keep the driver firmly in place during spirited driving. These specialized track-day versions inspired a new wave of amateur racers, solidifying their legacy in motorsports.

Preserving Performance: A Low-Mileage Example of Automotive History

The 2.4-liter engine in this specific vehicle has a re-calibrated tune, providing a slight increase in boost and power beyond its factory specifications, while largely retaining its original mechanical components. This careful enhancement ensures a boost in performance without compromising the integrity of its five-speed gearbox or risking excessive tire wear. Although Chrysler produced approximately 25,000 units of the SRT-4, these vehicles were inherently designed for rigorous use, making well-preserved examples a rarity today. This particular SRT-4 ACR stands out, having been under the consistent care of a single owner since its inception and accumulating a mere 44,000 miles on its odometer. It represents an exceptionally well-maintained artifact from an era when strategic investment could significantly enhance a vehicle's track performance and overall driving thrill. The auction for this unique vehicle concludes on February 3rd.

See More