Electric Cars

Acura has announced the cessation of production for its RDX compact luxury SUV, a model that has been a staple in the US market for 19 years. While the current RDX will be discontinued later this year, with no 2027 model scheduled, this move paves the way for a significant evolution within the Acura lineup. Enthusiasts can anticipate the arrival of a new, hybrid-powered RDX successor within the next few years, signaling a shift towards more electrified offerings from the brand. This strategic decision comes as Acura adapts to changing market demands and consumer preferences.

The upcoming hybrid RDX will represent the fourth iteration of the popular SUV, and it is expected to incorporate a sophisticated two-motor hybrid system, akin to that found in the MDX. While specific details regarding the design and capabilities of the next-generation RDX are still under wraps, Acura has provided a glimpse into its potential aesthetic through teaser images. This transition highlights Acura's commitment to advancing its hybrid technology and expanding its eco-friendly vehicle portfolio.

In the interim period before the hybrid RDX's launch, Acura is ensuring that customers have ample choices within its SUV and EV segments. Buyers can explore the subcompact ADX, the larger three-row MDX, or look forward to the imminent release of the RSX EV. The RSX EV, slated for introduction this year, is designed to offer an alternative for those who previously considered the RDX, aiming to maintain Acura's competitive edge in diverse vehicle categories.

The decision to discontinue the RDX, despite its recent refresh in 2024 which brought a sharper design and enhanced infotainment, reflects market dynamics where its sales saw a decline. Both the larger MDX and the smaller ADX surpassed the RDX in sales in 2025, indicating a preference among buyers for other models in Acura's range. This trend underscores the importance of innovation and adaptation in the automotive industry.

The discontinuation of the Acura RDX marks the end of an era for the compact luxury SUV. However, it also ushers in an exciting new chapter with the confirmed development of a hybrid replacement. This forthcoming model, expected within a few years, promises to blend Acura's signature luxury with advanced hybrid technology, likely featuring a two-motor system similar to the MDX. Meanwhile, new offerings like the ADX and the upcoming RSX EV are set to fill the gap, ensuring Acura's continued presence and appeal in the evolving automotive landscape, as the brand looks towards a more electrified future.

Jensen International Automotive (JIA) is poised to reintroduce the renowned Interceptor, not as a mere restoration but as an entirely reimagined vehicle for the modern era. This exciting development marks a new chapter for the classic British grand tourer, promising a fusion of its distinctive heritage with cutting-edge engineering and performance. The new Interceptor will boast a unique body design, an advanced aluminum chassis, and a potent V-8 powerplant, aiming to deliver a luxurious and high-performance driving experience while preserving the spirit of its iconic predecessor.

Originating as a coachbuilder in the 1920s, Jensen Motors evolved to produce sports cars, including those with experimental fiberglass bodies, before achieving significant recognition in the mid-1960s with the introduction of the original Interceptor. This grand tourer captivated enthusiasts with its Italian-designed hatchback coupe body and robust American big-block Chrysler engine. The Interceptor quickly became a symbol of luxury and power, attracting a discerning clientele that included royalty, with Princess Anne notably owning one. Jensen Motors was also at the forefront of automotive innovation, incorporating features like power accessories, brake warning lights, and even an advanced four-wheel-drive system with anti-lock brakes in its FF model, long before these technologies became widespread. However, the economic challenges of the 1970s proved difficult for niche manufacturers of fuel-intensive vehicles, ultimately leading to Jensen's cessation of production by the 2000s.

In 2010, JIA embarked on a mission to revitalize classic Interceptors through meticulous restoration and modern performance upgrades, frequently integrating contemporary LS3 V-8 engines. Their latest announcement, however, signals a departure from these restomod projects, focusing instead on an all-new vehicle that honors the Interceptor's legacy. A recently released teaser image reveals a silhouette reminiscent of the classic Interceptor's long hood and distinctive bubble-back, yet infused with contemporary design elements in its front and rear fascias, alongside a more raked front windscreen. Observers have noted subtle design influences from revered marques such as Mustang and Aston Martin, all while clearly retaining the original Jensen's distinctive profile. JIA has confirmed that this new model will be a high-performance luxury GT, meticulously crafted in a UK factory utilizing an aluminum chassis and a completely novel body structure.

Specific details regarding the powertrain remain limited, with JIA describing it simply as a "bespoke" V-8 engine, leaving room for speculation about its origins, which could range from a specially tuned crate engine to a sophisticated Cosworth-engineered unit. While most of the original Interceptors were equipped with automatic transmissions, there is considerable anticipation, fueled by JIA's promise of a "fully analog driving experience," that a manual transmission option might be available for this new iteration. Pricing and availability information are yet to be disclosed, with JIA indicating that the new Interceptor will be offered in the UK in "ultra-limited numbers," suggesting exclusivity for this revived automotive legend.