Electric Cars

The 1987 Sterling 825SL represented an ambitious effort to introduce a new luxury sedan to the American automotive market. This vehicle was a product of an intriguing collaboration between the British Rover Group and the Japanese automotive powerhouse, Honda. Despite the historical challenges faced by British car brands in attracting U.S. buyers, the Sterling 825SL aimed to overcome these hurdles by leveraging a proven Honda platform while incorporating distinct European design elements. This blend of engineering and styling created a unique offering, positioning the 825SL as a contender in a segment dominated by established marques.

The genesis of the Sterling 825SL can be traced back to the partnership between Austin Rover and Honda, which began in the late 1970s. This collaboration sought to combine British craftsmanship with Japanese engineering efficiency and reliability. The 825SL, specifically, was based on the Honda Legend platform, a decision intended to provide a solid foundation of performance and dependability. Launched in the U.S. market in 1987, the Sterling brand was a new entity, designed to cater to the American desire for sophisticated, performance-oriented luxury vehicles.

The exterior of the 825SL showcased a design that was distinctly British, with elegant lines and a refined aesthetic. However, beneath this European skin lay a significant amount of Honda engineering. The car was equipped with a 2.5-liter V6 engine, derived from Honda, which offered a smooth and responsive driving experience. The interior also aimed for a luxurious feel, featuring high-quality materials and an array of standard amenities intended to compete with offerings from German and American luxury manufacturers. Despite these efforts, the Sterling 825SL faced a challenging reception in the U.S., struggling to gain significant market share against its well-entrenched rivals.

The sales performance of the Sterling 825SL in the U.S. market reflected the difficulty of introducing a new foreign luxury brand. While the car was praised for its comfortable ride and robust engine, concerns over quality control and a perception of inconsistent reliability began to emerge, undermining the advantage provided by its Honda underpinnings. This ultimately led to a short-lived presence for the Sterling brand in North America, making the 825SL a notable, if not commercially successful, chapter in automotive history.

The 1987 Sterling 825SL stands as a testament to an ambitious cross-continental automotive endeavor. Born from a partnership between British design and Japanese engineering, it aimed to captivate the discerning American luxury car buyer. While its journey in the market was brief, the 825SL remains an interesting example of international collaboration in the automotive industry, highlighting the complexities of brand perception and consumer trust in a competitive landscape.

Audi is preparing for a significant year in 2026, with several new models slated for release. While enthusiasts anticipate the updated RS5 and SUV fans look forward to the next-generation Q7 and the debut Q9, Audi is also revamping its compact lineup. The A1 and its crossover counterpart, the Q2, are expected to be phased out, paving the way for a new entrant that will bear a familiar, yet reimagined, name: the A2.

The original A2, despite its innovative design, faced challenges in the market due to its higher price point and distinctive aesthetic. However, Audi is optimistic that the spiritual successor, an all-electric vehicle, will achieve greater success. The German luxury automaker has confirmed plans to launch an entry-level electric vehicle in 2026, which industry sources, including Autocar, indicate will carry the A2 designation, likely as the A2 E-Tron.

This upcoming A2 E-Tron is expected to feature a contemporary design, including split headlights and innovative integrated door handles, moving away from the more polarizing look of its predecessor while incorporating modern elements seen in models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E. Sharing its underpinnings with the Volkswagen ID.3, the A2 E-Tron will be positioned as a more premium, albeit compact, electric offering. While unlikely to reach the North American market due to its size, it is poised for success in Europe, where the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow, attracting buyers who valued the unique appeal of cars like the BMW i3.

Audi's commitment to innovation and adaptability shines through its decision to revitalize the A2 name for an electric era. By learning from past experiences and embracing future technologies, Audi demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that not only honors its heritage but also paves the way for sustainable and compelling mobility solutions. This strategic move highlights the brand's dedication to evolving with market demands and offering a diverse range of vehicles that cater to a global audience's changing preferences, reinforcing the idea that progress is built on a foundation of continuous improvement and responsiveness.