Electric Cars

Maserati has, for many decades, strived to solidify its standing within the rapidly changing automotive landscape. Having navigated through various corporate ownerships, the brand consistently faced scrutiny from both analysts and enthusiasts regarding its relevance and product direction. This trajectory shifted significantly with the introduction of the 2020 MC20, which heralded a new product offensive and a renewed emphasis on the marque's rich legacy. The 2026 MCPura continues this renaissance, reaffirming Maserati's commitment to its foundational principles: exhilarating performance, breathtaking design, and an unmistakable Italian flair.

The 2026 MCPura, a refined iteration of the MC20, presents itself as a vehicle crafted with artistic integrity, unburdened by corporate compromises. Its elongated, low-slung silhouette exudes a devastating beauty, evoking the sense of a masterpiece born from an artist's forgotten sketch. Each contour is meticulously sculpted, serving aerodynamic efficiency without sacrificing aesthetic allure. The updated model features redesigned front and rear lower fascias and subtle modifications to the side skirts, yet its inherent magnificence remains preserved, appearing as if drawn by an artist unconcerned with financial constraints. Inside, the cabin epitomizes Italian sophistication and comfort. Alcantara upholstery adorns nearly every surface, offering a lightweight yet luxurious feel, complemented by a new flat-top steering wheel with paddle shifters that establishes a performance-oriented ambiance. The interior is characterized by its clean, elegant design, refreshingly free from unnecessary complexities. Two 10.25-inch displays, dedicated to instrumentation and infotainment, strike an ideal balance between contemporary technology and visual tranquility. This minimalist approach avoids digital clutter and excessive illumination, reflecting a brand confident in its rediscovered identity.

Underneath its carbon-fiber shell, the 2026 MCPura retains the formidable powertrain of its predecessor, the MC20. Maserati's Nettuno twin-turbocharged V6 engine delivers an impressive 621 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque, channeled to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Notably absent are hybrid components or all-wheel drive, a deliberate choice that underscores Maserati's dedication to pure, unadulterated driving excitement. This powerhouse propels the MCPura to 60 mph in under 2.9 seconds and pushes it beyond 200 mph, a testament to Maserati's unwavering pursuit of exhilaration in an era where many manufacturers prioritize efficiency. The driving experience is remarkably composed despite its raw power. The Nettuno V6 emits a purposeful growl when pushed, yet the powertrain demonstrates surprising civility in everyday driving. The throttle response is smooth, ensuring that the car delivers its performance without unnecessary harshness or excessive noise. Steering is light yet precise, and body control remains impeccable, with a suspension setup that offers just enough compliance for a refined ride. The MCPura is a gentleman's hypercar: capable of thrilling performance yet delivered with exquisite politeness. While not without minor idiosyncrasies—such as a somewhat inefficient sunshade, scissor doors that require ample opening space, and a trunk prone to heat—these elements are easily overlooked given the vehicle's overarching appeal and performance ethos. Fuel economy, observed at approximately 9 mpg during a test drive near Florence, Italy, is a small concession for a Maserati that prioritizes speed and emotional connection above all else.

With price points set at $246,000 for the Coupe and $281,000 for the Cielo convertible, the 2026 Maserati MCPura deliberately steers clear of mass-market aspirations, a departure from previous strategies with models like the 2014-2024 Ghibli sedan. Instead, it confidently asserts Maserati's standing as a formidable contender in the high-performance luxury segment. This vehicle transcends mere historical homage, actively embodying the spirit of Maserati's glorious past. By doing so, Maserati once again distinguishes itself as a brand synonymous with crafting emotionally resonant and aspirational automobiles that deliver both exceptional dynamic capabilities and profound visual impact. This return to core values reinforces a vision where automotive excellence is defined by passion, heritage, and an unwavering commitment to the art of driving.

Ram's ambitious strategy to re-enter the midsize pickup truck segment is taking shape with the unveiling of the 2027 Ram Dakota. This new iteration of the Dakota is specifically designed for the South American market, aiming to challenge established players like the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger. Concurrently, a separate, yet-to-be-named midsize Ram truck is being developed for North America, indicating a dual-pronged approach to tackle the burgeoning global midsize truck market. The South American Dakota, with its rugged styling and modern features, signals Ram's commitment to offering diverse truck solutions tailored to regional demands, while the North American model promises robust capabilities built on a proven platform.

The return of the Ram Dakota marks a significant move by the brand to fortify its presence in the midsize truck category, particularly in South America. The 2027 model, which recently commenced production at Stellantis' Córdoba Industrial Complex in Argentina, is poised to fill a crucial niche between Ram's compact Rampage and its full-size 1500 trucks in the region. Sales are slated to commence in Argentina in November, followed by a broader launch in Brazil by February 2026. This strategic rollout emphasizes Ram's focus on key emerging markets for this class of vehicle.

Drawing heavily from the aesthetic principles of its larger siblings, the 2027 Ram Dakota showcases a formidable design. It features a prominent R-A-M grille, a sculpted hood, and comprehensive LED lighting, giving it a powerful and contemporary appearance. The Warlock trim, in particular, enhances its adventurous appeal with matte-black 17-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, practical side steps, and a multi-functional Rambar that serves both utility and stylistic purposes, making it a compelling option for buyers seeking a blend of robustness and refined looks.

The interior of the new Dakota elevates the standard for the midsize segment, boasting premium soft-touch materials and a well-appointed cabin. A raised center console contributes to an ergonomic layout, complemented by twin digital displays: one for the driver's instrumentation and a generous 12.3-inch touchscreen for the infotainment system. Modern connectivity features are standard, including wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and phone charging, alongside multiple USB ports. Safety is also a priority, with adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and six airbags ensuring a secure driving experience.

Under the hood, the South American Ram Dakota is powered by a potent 2.2-liter Multijet II turbodiesel engine. This powerplant delivers 200 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a smooth ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. Its selectable 4x4 system, equipped with low-range gearing and a locking rear differential, ensures formidable off-road capabilities. The truck boasts an impressive payload capacity of 2,205 pounds and a towing capacity reaching 7,716 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of demanding tasks and adventures.

While the Argentine-built Dakota addresses the demands of the Latin American market, Ram has confirmed plans for a distinct midsize pickup for North America. Stellantis has indicated that this all-new truck will be manufactured at the Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio, and it is anticipated to share its robust body-on-frame architecture with Jeep's iconic Wrangler and Gladiator models. This strategy suggests a vehicle built for durability and off-road prowess, aligning with the expectations of North American truck buyers.

The North American version of Ram's midsize truck is projected to make its debut around 2027, with production likely commencing between 2028 and 2029. This model is squarely aimed at capturing market share from formidable competitors like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma. With an estimated starting price point around $30,000, Ram is positioning this new entry to be competitive and accessible, appealing to a broad segment of buyers seeking a capable and versatile midsize pickup in the United States and Canada.

In summary, Ram's global strategy for the midsize truck market involves the reintroduction of the Dakota for South America, a vehicle that combines a robust diesel engine with a premium interior and a design inspired by larger Ram trucks. Simultaneously, a separate, American-made midsize truck is under development, utilizing Jeep's proven body-on-frame platform, to compete in the North American market. These two distinct models underscore Ram's dedication to offering regionally optimized and highly competitive trucks, expanding its footprint in this dynamic automotive segment.