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Lexus Dealers Crowned Happiest in America, Infiniti Lags

In a recent industry evaluation, Lexus retailers emerged as the most content in the American automotive landscape for 2026. This finding stems from the National Automobile Dealers Association's (NADA) latest Dealer Attitude Survey, which assesses the relationships between manufacturers and their franchised dealers. The comprehensive report indicated a positive shift in dealer morale across a significant portion of the sector, largely attributed to the stabilization of vehicle inventories and a more streamlined approach to product development by automakers.

The NADA survey, published biannually, serves as a crucial barometer for gauging dealer satisfaction. It delves into various aspects of the manufacturer-dealer dynamic, including communication effectiveness, product support, and the perceived overall value of the franchise. For Lexus, achieving the highest marks underscores its strong partnership with its retail network, a factor that could provide a considerable competitive edge in both the luxury and mainstream vehicle markets.

While Lexus celebrated its leading position, the positive sentiment wasn't universally shared. Several brands continued to struggle with dealer relations, with Infiniti notably occupying the lowest rank. Other marques found near the bottom of the satisfaction index included Jaguar, Alfa Romeo, Mitsubishi, and Nissan. This disparity highlights ongoing challenges for some automakers in fostering strong, mutually beneficial relationships with their dealer networks, even as industry conditions generally improve.

This outcome reaffirms Lexus's commitment to cultivating robust relationships with its dealerships. Such strong alliances are increasingly vital in a fiercely competitive automotive market, enabling seamless collaboration and ultimately benefiting the end consumer. The diverging results among luxury and mainstream brands illustrate the varied success rates in adapting to evolving market demands and dealer expectations.

AEV Unveils FX370 Package for Ford Super Duty

American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) has launched its latest customization, the FX370 package, tailored specifically for Ford Super Duty pickups. Known for their meticulous work in transforming vehicles for extreme terrain, AEV brings its expertise to Ford's heavy-duty lineup. This new offering focuses on significant off-road enhancements, including a specialized suspension system and aggressive tire fitment, ensuring the Super Duty is ready for demanding adventures. The FX370 package is now available for pre-order, providing a comprehensive upgrade that maintains an OEM-quality standard, a hallmark of AEV's previous projects with brands like Jeep, Chevy, GMC, and Ram.

The FX370 represents a robust evolution in AEV's offerings for the Ford Super Duty platform. It's designed to deliver superior off-road performance through key modifications, such as the integration of larger tires and a purpose-built suspension lift. This package builds upon AEV's reputation for engineering upgrades that not only enhance capability but also ensure durability and reliability, making the modified Super Duty a powerful tool for navigating challenging environments. Customers looking to elevate their truck's prowess on trails and remote locations will find the FX370 a compelling option, combining AEV's proven track record with the inherent strength of the Ford Super Duty.

Enhanced Off-Road Readiness with the FX370

The FX370 package for the Ford Super Duty trucks by AEV is engineered for serious off-road enthusiasts, centering around a formidable 37-inch tire setup. This core modification is complemented by a comprehensive suite of upgrades, including a durable front bumper compatible with winches and a high-clearance rear bumper designed for maximum protection and an aggressive stance. The suspension system receives a significant overhaul with AEV's four-inch DualSport lift, featuring high-performance Bilstein dampers specifically calibrated for the Super Duty. These enhancements collectively prepare the truck for the most challenging landscapes, ensuring improved approach, departure, and breakover angles, alongside superior traction and stability.

Beyond the functional upgrades, the FX370 package also incorporates distinct styling cues. While the exterior graphics largely mirror those of its larger counterpart, the FXL, subtle branding changes distinguish the FX370, particularly on the bed sides. Inside the cabin, occupants will find AEV-embroidered headrests, adding a touch of bespoke craftsmanship. Unlike the FXL, which often requires wider fender flares to accommodate its 40-inch tires, the FX370's 37-inch tire fitment is achieved without extensive sheet metal modifications, thanks to the lifted AEV suspension and specific wheel-well adjustments. This design choice provides ample clearance while maintaining a more integrated look. The package includes 18-inch AEV Salta wheels, a rugged and stylish choice, with potential for further wheel upgrades. Production of the FX370 is slated to commence in October, with pricing starting at $19,999, excluding the base vehicle cost and any additional options. This positions the FX370 as a more accessible yet highly capable alternative to the FXL, offering substantial off-road improvements without the extreme tire size, representing a notable value for adventurers.

Distinguishing Features and AEV's Precision Engineering

AEV's FX370 package represents a meticulously crafted enhancement for the Ford Super Duty, building on the foundation set by the earlier FXL Super Duty model. The primary differentiator between the two packages lies in their tire dimensions; the FX370 is equipped with 37-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A K03 tires, while the FXL accommodates larger 40-inch BFGoodrich HD-Terrain KT tires. This distinction in tire size naturally leads to variations in the overall ride height, but AEV ensures that both packages deliver exceptional off-road performance through their signature engineering precision. The FX370 maintains AEV's reputation for providing OEM-quality upgrades, integrating seamlessly with the Super Duty's existing architecture to deliver a factory-level fit and finish.

The core modifications of the FX370 largely mirror those found in the FXL, underscoring AEV's consistent approach to robust off-road preparation. Both packages feature a heavy-duty AEV stamped steel front bumper, designed to be winch-compatible for recovery operations, and a high-clearance AEV rear bumper, offering enhanced protection against impacts. A crucial element shared by both is AEV's four-inch DualSport suspension system, which is specifically engineered for the Super Duty and includes high-performance Bilstein dampers, optimizing ride quality and articulation on challenging terrains. A notable design choice for the FX370 is its ability to achieve the necessary tire clearance through the lifted suspension and subtle wheel-well adjustments, eliminating the need for the HighMark fender flares seen on the FXL. This approach preserves the vehicle's original body lines while still providing adequate space for the larger tires. The FX370 rides on AEV's 18-inch Salta wheels, which are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With pre-orders now open and production scheduled for October, the FX370 package, priced from $19,999, offers a compelling balance of advanced off-road capability and refined integration, positioned $6,000 less than the FXL while still providing a significant upgrade for Super Duty owners.

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Audi S4 Avant: A V-8 Manual Wagon Icon

In an era where the automotive landscape is increasingly dominated by crossovers and electric vehicles, the allure of performance wagons with manual transmissions remains strong for enthusiasts. This article celebrates a particularly remarkable discovery: a 2008 Audi S4 Avant, boasting an exceptionally low mileage of just 3700 miles. This vehicle stands as a testament to a time when Audi prioritized a blend of practicality, power, and an engaging driving experience, a combination that is increasingly rare in today's market. Its powerful 4.2-liter V-8 engine, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, offers a driving dynamic that current Audi models, even highly anticipated ones like the Nuvolari supercar, simply cannot replicate. The S4 Avant provides a unique opportunity to own what is essentially a new version of a car no longer produced, embodying the brand's past dedication to enthusiast-focused vehicles.

This particular S4 Avant is not just a relic; it's a fully functional, high-performance machine designed for both spirited driving and everyday utility. Its renowned all-wheel-drive system ensures exceptional grip and stability in diverse conditions, making it an ideal choice for various driving scenarios, from daily commutes to adventurous mountain trips. The comfortable interior, equipped with heated seats and a premium Bose audio system, further enhances the driving experience, ensuring comfort and entertainment for all occupants. The understated yet sporty design, highlighted by 18-inch wheels and signature silver mirror covers, subtly signals its performance capabilities to those in the know. As the auction for this pristine model concludes on July 29, it represents a golden opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire a piece of automotive history that perfectly marries performance, practicality, and enduring appeal.

The Enduring Appeal of the V-8 Manual Wagon

In a market shifting towards electrification and automated transmissions, the 2008 Audi S4 Avant emerges as a compelling icon for automotive purists. Its rare combination of a naturally aspirated 4.2-liter V-8 engine, a six-speed manual transmission, and the versatile wagon body style sets it apart from contemporary offerings. This vehicle showcases Audi's legacy of crafting enthusiast-oriented cars that deliver a powerful and engaging driving experience, a stark contrast to the brand's current focus on supercars and crossovers. The S4 Avant’s remarkably low mileage positions it as a nearly new example of a classic performance car, highlighting a bygone era where driver involvement was paramount. Its enduring appeal lies in this unique blend of raw power, precise control, and practical design, making it a sought-after model for those who appreciate the mechanical symphony of a V-8 paired with the tactile satisfaction of a manual gear shift.

The naturally aspirated V-8 engine of the 2008 Audi S4 Avant, featuring an innovative five-valves-per-cylinder design, produced 340 horsepower and 302 pound-feet of torque. While slightly less powerful than some contemporary rivals like the BMW M3, the Audi's engine offered a broader, more accessible powerband and smoother torque delivery, providing a distinct and more refined driving feel. This engine’s characteristics, combined with the precision of the six-speed manual transmission, allowed for an incredibly engaging and enjoyable driving experience. Furthermore, Audi's legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive system ensured exceptional traction and stability, making the S4 Avant capable in all weather conditions. The wagon's practical design provided ample cargo space without compromising performance, offering a perfect balance for those who needed utility alongside exhilarating dynamics. The interior added to its charm with features like heated seats, a sunroof, and a premium Bose sound system, all wrapped in a durable black leather interior. This car was truly designed for both the performance enthusiast and the practical-minded driver, demonstrating a versatility that few modern vehicles can match, especially with its impressive all-weather capability, making it ideal for diverse driving conditions and active lifestyles.

A Rare Find: The Low-Mileage 2008 S4 Avant

The discovery of this 2008 Audi S4 Avant with only 3700 miles on the odometer is a significant event for car enthusiasts, effectively presenting a virtually new example of a highly coveted model. This particular vehicle represents a pinnacle of Audi's performance wagon offerings, distinguished by its powerful V-8 engine and a manual gearbox, a configuration that has become increasingly scarce. Its pristine condition and minimal usage make it an exceptional acquisition for collectors or anyone looking to experience the unadulterated driving pleasure of a well-preserved classic. This S4 Avant stands as a reminder of Audi’s commitment to combining robust engineering with an exhilarating driving experience, setting it apart from the brand’s current production lineup that largely focuses on different segments and powertrain technologies. The opportunity to own such a low-mileage specimen underscores its uniqueness in today's automotive landscape, appealing to those who value both performance heritage and practical utility.

This low-mileage 2008 Audi S4 Avant is more than just a car; it's a perfectly preserved artifact of automotive engineering. The vehicle's immaculate condition extends to its interior, which features comfortable heated seats, a high-quality Bose audio system, and a convenient sunroof, all contributing to a luxurious and practical cabin environment. The black leather upholstery is both elegant and durable, perfect for long journeys or daily use. Externally, the 18-inch alloy wheels strike an ideal balance between sporty aesthetics and functional design, while the subtle silver mirror covers serve as a telltale sign of its S-model pedigree to discerning Audi fans. The car's readiness for diverse conditions is further enhanced by its Michelin Pilot Sports tires, which were recently installed, providing excellent grip for summer driving, with the potential for winter tires to tackle snowy mountain roads. This S4 Avant is not just a collector's item but a functional, powerful, and versatile vehicle, offering a driving experience that epitomizes the best of Audi's past engineering achievements. Its upcoming auction on July 29 presents a rare chance to acquire a meticulously maintained, high-performance wagon that brilliantly combines raw power with everyday usability.

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