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BMW M Division CEO Foresees the End of Manual Transmissions

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The chief executive of BMW's high-performance M division, Frank van Meel, recently expressed concerns regarding the longevity of manual transmissions within their vehicle lineup. He conveyed to an Australian automotive publication that the economic rationale for continuing to offer these gearboxes is progressively weakening. Van Meel highlighted that, in the coming years, the presence of manual transmissions in BMW's performance models is likely to diminish, attributing this trend to the evolving demands of modern engineering and market dynamics.

A significant challenge lies in the escalating power output of contemporary performance vehicles. As engines become more potent, the transmissions responsible for channeling this power to the wheels face increased strain. BMW's current six-speed manual transmission, for instance, is limited to handling approximately 440 pound-feet of torque. This constraint restricts its integration into a broader range of high-performance models. Developing new manual transmissions capable of accommodating greater torque figures would necessitate substantial investment, a proposition that suppliers are increasingly reluctant to undertake given the niche market for such components.

Despite these commercial and engineering obstacles, Van Meel affirmed that BMW has no immediate plans to completely discontinue manual transmissions. The company recognizes the passionate appeal these gearboxes hold for a segment of its customer base. Therefore, BMW intends to continue offering manual options for as long as it remains feasible, balancing the emotional connection with driving enthusiasts against the practicalities of future automotive development. This commitment reflects a nuanced approach to product planning, acknowledging both market realities and brand heritage.

The automotive industry is in a perpetual state of transformation, driven by innovation and evolving consumer preferences. While the shift towards advanced automatic and electric powertrains is undeniable, the enduring passion for traditional driving experiences, such as those offered by manual transmissions, underscores the importance of honoring heritage while embracing progress. This delicate balance ensures that the spirit of driving enjoyment, in its various forms, continues to thrive for generations to come.

Leading Car Brands in Dependability for 2026: Lexus, Buick, and Mini Shine
Cars

Leading Car Brands in Dependability for 2026: Lexus, Buick, and Mini Shine

2026 Audi A6: A Refined Luxury Sedan's Enduring Appeal
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2026 Audi A6: A Refined Luxury Sedan's Enduring Appeal

Tesla's Autopilot Feature Withdrawn from California Vehicles Amid Regulatory Pressure
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Tesla's Autopilot Feature Withdrawn from California Vehicles Amid Regulatory Pressure

Cars

Nissan Recalls Over 300,000 Rogue SUVs Due to Throttle Body Issues

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Nissan has announced a major recall campaign affecting hundreds of thousands of its Rogue SUV models from the 2024 and 2025 production years. This extensive action, encompassing 318,781 vehicles, targets a critical flaw in the electronic throttle body system. The primary concern lies with the gears within the electronic throttle chamber (ETC), which are prone to fracturing.

The underlying cause of this problem is a diagnostic routine activated during vehicle startup. This routine, designed to test the ETC, inadvertently exerts pressure on the internal gears, causing them to rotate against a fixed stopper. Over time, the repeated stress from this operation, coupled with specific software in the Engine Control Module (ECM), can weaken or break these gears. A fractured gear could severely compromise the vehicle's ability to move, as it might prevent the engine from delivering power for forward or reverse motion. Nissan has acknowledged over 3,000 warranty claims related to this issue, though thankfully, no accidents or injuries have been reported. Nissan dealerships will address the defect by reprogramming the ECM and conducting a thorough inspection of the ETC for any necessary replacements. Owners of affected vehicles can expect to receive official notification letters by March 27, 2026, detailing the steps for repair.

This proactive measure by Nissan underscores the importance of vehicle safety and manufacturer accountability. Recalls, while inconvenient, are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring that vehicles on the road meet rigorous safety standards. It highlights the ongoing need for vigilance in automotive design and manufacturing, as even minor component flaws can have significant implications for vehicle performance and driver safety.

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Tesla Rebrands Driver-Assistance Features Under Regulatory Pressure
Cars

Tesla Rebrands Driver-Assistance Features Under Regulatory Pressure

Polestar Reintroduces Physical Buttons, Expands Interior Options
Cars

Polestar Reintroduces Physical Buttons, Expands Interior Options

Unveiling the 2027 Audi RS5: A Glimpse into the Future of Performance
Cars

Unveiling the 2027 Audi RS5: A Glimpse into the Future of Performance

Cars

Top Cars That Hold Their Value Best

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Purchasing a brand-new vehicle is often an exhilarating experience, yet it frequently comes with the apprehension of significant value depreciation in the initial years. This article delves into the top vehicles that successfully resist this decline, providing valuable insights for consumers aiming to minimize financial loss. By highlighting models with superior resale value retention, it aims to guide prospective buyers towards smarter investments in the automotive market.

Smart Buys: Vehicles That Defy Depreciation

Identifying the Best Performers: Cars with High Value Retention

For those considering a new car purchase but wishing to sidestep substantial value loss, this curated list presents models that have demonstrated remarkable depreciation resistance over the past three years. This information is crucial, as even lease agreements tend to be more favorable for vehicles expected to hold their worth. The ranking below showcases the ten best-performing models across various categories and body styles in terms of retained value.

Vehicle Make and ModelValue Retained After 3 Years
Porsche 91198%
Ford Maverick90%
Toyota Tacoma89%
Honda Civic88%
Toyota 4Runner88%
Toyota Corolla Cross87%
Toyota Sienna86%
Toyota Corolla Hatchback86%
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid85%
Toyota RAV485%

The Unconventional Leader: A Sports Car's Enduring Value

It might seem counterintuitive for an expensive sports car to lead the pack in value retention, but the Porsche 911 has remarkably held onto more of its original purchase price than any other vehicle over the last three years. On average, a 911 retains nearly its initial cost. This impressive statistic is partly influenced by the inclusion of highly sought-after variants like the GT3, GT3 RS, and limited-edition models such as the 911 Sport Classic, 911 S/T, and 911 Dakar, which often appreciate. These rare editions balance out the modest depreciation of standard 911 models, contributing to the overall strong performance, despite their limited numbers.

Everyday Champions: Practical Vehicles with Outstanding Value

For buyers seeking more practical and accessible options, the Ford Maverick compact pickup and the Toyota Tacoma midsize pickup secure impressive second and third spots, retaining 90% and 89% of their original values, respectively. The Maverick's popularity stems from its economical running costs, attractive base prices, and diverse configurations. The Tacoma's consistent performance is no surprise, given its two-decade reign as the best-selling midsize pickup in the US. Toyota's dominance in value retention is evident, with six models occupying the top ten, leaving rival manufacturers to ponder their strategies.

Honda's Notable Entry: The Civic's Enduring Appeal

Honda vehicles are renowned for their durability, engineering prowess, and solid overall performance, consistently ranking highly within their respective segments. The current generation Civic exemplifies this, offering a compelling package where even the base LX model fulfills the needs of most drivers. With an impressive 88% value retention over three years, the Civic currently stands as the most financially sensible compact car option for new car buyers.

Toyota's Unmatched Presence: A Strategy for Lasting Value

Toyota's success in value retention lies in its unwavering commitment to consumer preferences, building affordable, dependable, and low-maintenance vehicles. While aspirational models like Ferraris or Porsche 911s capture imaginations, Toyota meticulously caters to the daily driver, focusing on commuting and casual weekend use. By avoiding aggressive incentives, stabilizing new car pricing, and limiting fleet and rental sales, Toyota strengthens the used car market, ensuring robust resale values. This strategic approach has allowed Toyota to claim the final six positions in the top ten, with each model retaining between 85% and 88% of its initial value, encompassing diverse categories like the Sienna minivan, RAV4 compact SUV, and the robust 4Runner.

Informed Decisions: Mastering Your Car's Resale Potential

The prospect of buying a new car often brings a mix of excitement and anxiety, especially concerning how quickly its value will diminish. However, by understanding which models excel in retaining their worth, consumers can prolong the satisfaction of owning a new vehicle. Armed with knowledge about top-performing cars, buyers can make more confident and financially advantageous choices, ensuring their investment holds strong for years to come.

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