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Mazda 6e Attracts Volkswagen and Nissan EV Owners in Europe

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Mazda's electric vehicle, the 6e, has made a remarkable entry into the European market, drawing in over 7,000 customers within just five months of its debut last September. This success is particularly noteworthy as a significant portion of these new buyers, more than half, are switching from rival brands rather than being existing Mazda loyalists. This signals a promising trajectory for Mazda's electric strategy, especially after the lukewarm reception of its previous EV, the MX-30, which saw its production for Europe halted.

Mazda's Electric Sedan Captivates European Buyers, Challenging Established EV Brands

Since its launch in September of last year, Mazda's latest electric sedan, the 6e, has rapidly become a strong contender in the European electric vehicle market. In a compelling turn of events, this mid-size liftback, manufactured through the Changan-Mazda joint venture in China, has successfully attracted over 7,000 buyers in under five months. Initially, Mazda had anticipated that the majority of 6e purchasers would be existing customers transitioning to electric models. However, the data reveals a different story: over 50% of these new owners are migrating from other automotive brands. Martijn ten Brink, CEO of Mazda Europe, highlighted that a substantial number of these new clients are former owners of the Volkswagen e-Golf, choosing the more spacious 6e over Volkswagen's own ID.3 or ID.7. Additionally, some corporate fleets are opting for the 6e as a replacement for their combustion-engine Volkswagen Passats. The 6e's counterpart, the CX-6e SUV, is slated to arrive in Europe by summer, further expanding Mazda's electric footprint. Despite the success, Mazda Europe has clarified that range-extending versions of the 6e and CX-6e, which are available in China, will not be introduced in Europe due to high import tariffs and the niche market demand for such configurations.

This early success with the 6e is a vital step for Mazda, a company historically known for its combustion-engine vehicles. It helps mitigate the risk of incurring fines for exceeding the increasingly stringent EU fleet emission targets. The company is closely monitoring the sales performance of both the 6e and the upcoming CX-6e to determine its strategy for emissions credit pooling in 2026. For a relatively smaller automaker like Mazda, which lacks dedicated electric and internal combustion development teams, leveraging partnerships like the one with Changan is a pragmatic approach to accelerate its entry into the rapidly evolving EV sector. This strategic move ensures Mazda remains competitive in the electric vehicle landscape while it continues to develop its own bespoke EV platforms, with models like an electrified CX-5 featuring a new Skyactiv-Z gas engine and an in-house hybrid system anticipated by 2027.

Rare Peugeot 205 Rallye Sold for a Bargain Price
Cars

Rare Peugeot 205 Rallye Sold for a Bargain Price

Deconstructing Netflix's 'Drive to Survive': F1's Reality vs. Fabricated Drama
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Deconstructing Netflix's 'Drive to Survive': F1's Reality vs. Fabricated Drama

Willie Mays' 1977 Stutz Blackhawk VI: A Glimpse into Automotive Extravagance
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Willie Mays' 1977 Stutz Blackhawk VI: A Glimpse into Automotive Extravagance

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A New Chapter: Prioritizing Family in Automotive Choices

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The recent addition of a baby girl to the Quiroga household has profoundly transformed the author's automotive preferences. What once drove choices based on exhilaration and personal enjoyment has now given way to a pragmatic assessment of cargo capacity, safety features, and family suitability. This shift prompts a search for a new vehicle that can comfortably accommodate a rear-facing child seat and meet a growing list of practical demands, while still retaining a hint of the driving enthusiast's spirit.

The journey to find the perfect family vehicle began with a poignant decision: parting ways with a cherished 1991 BMW 325i convertible. The proceeds from its sale are earmarked for a car that can cater to the needs of a wife and their newborn. The criteria are comprehensive: ample space for a rear-facing car seat without compromising front passenger comfort, excellent visibility, traditional analog gauges, a CD player for older parents' preferences, generous cargo volume, an automatic transmission, reasonable maintenance costs, and a surprising, yet understandable, ability to reach 150 mph – a nod to the family's 'Car and Driver' lineage, though acknowledged as not a strict requirement.

Several contenders have emerged from this thoughtful evaluation. The 503-horsepower Mercedes-Benz R63 AMG, while capable of the desired speed, presents concerns regarding its age and the potential for costly maintenance. A more practical consideration is the Kia Telluride, a consistent favorite known for its straightforward functionality and robust road presence, despite a temporary absence from the 10Best award list. The new Honda Passport also garners attention for its enjoyable driving dynamics, comfortable ride, and thoughtful design catering to baby accessories.

Further along the spectrum of practicality lies the Toyota Sienna. Its efficiency, spaciousness, and quality construction are undeniable, yet the author's wife believes their family size doesn't yet warrant a minivan. For those willing to stretch the budget, the V-8-powered Lexus LX570 from 2016–2021 is a strong candidate. Its sibling, the Toyota Land Cruiser of the same period, is aesthetically more appealing but commands a higher market price. Both offer a distinct driving experience characterized by deliberate handling, smooth steering, and a supremely comfortable, quiet interior, reminiscent of a steadfast oil tanker, a metaphor fitting its significant fuel consumption.

The quest is currently underway, with the online marketplace proving to be a valuable resource. The author has even identified a promising Nightfall Mica LX570 with under 34,000 miles. While it may not achieve the top speed ambition, it thoughtfully includes a CD player, signifying a blend of modern necessity and nostalgic preference in this evolving automotive search.

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Luftgekühlt Brings Air-Cooled Porsche Celebration to Tokyo's Elevated Expressway
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Luftgekühlt Brings Air-Cooled Porsche Celebration to Tokyo's Elevated Expressway

The Enduring Appeal of the 1991 Nissan Sentra SE-R
Cars

The Enduring Appeal of the 1991 Nissan Sentra SE-R

Amazon Offers a Discounted Spyderco Pocket Knife
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Amazon Offers a Discounted Spyderco Pocket Knife

Cars

The Enduring Legacy of the 1932 Ford at Northwest Deuce Days

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The automotive world recently celebrated the enduring allure of the 1932 Ford, known as the 'Deuce,' at the Northwest Deuce Days in Victoria, British Columbia. This biennial event, a magnet for classic car aficionados, highlights how a vehicle from nearly a century ago continues to captivate enthusiasts. From its humble beginnings as a local Vancouver cruise, the gathering has burgeoned into the largest international showcase of 1932 Fords, drawing thousands to Victoria's scenic harbor. The event's unique triennial schedule has imbued it with a legendary status, akin to a rare celestial phenomenon. Its revival in 2022 by the Victoria tourism board, following founder Al Clark's retirement, ensured its continuity, attracting over 10,000 visitors and reinforcing the profound cultural impact of this iconic automobile.

The pilgrimage to Deuce Days officially culminates on Sunday, but the festivities commence even before the weekend begins. A vibrant parade of customized hot rods disembarks from the Coho Ferry, originating from Washington State, and floods the charming streets of Victoria. These vehicles, driven from across North America and beyond, transform the city into a living museum of automotive history. Spectators line the sidewalks and restaurant patios, eagerly anticipating each arrival, a testament to the community's passion. Sharing a table with seasoned attendees, the author gained insights into the event's rich traditions, from ferry logistics to the welcoming ritual orchestrated by greeter Don Delaney. The collective excitement peaks on Sunday mornings, when the carefully curated cars fill the show grounds, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle.

Throughout the event, a unique camaraderie flourishes, with conversations invariably revolving around shared automotive interests. A simple inquiry about one's vehicle quickly establishes connections, transcending geographical and social boundaries. Encounters range from a father-son duo recounting a pre-ferry mechanical mishap to enthusiasts like Brett and Bart, who journeyed from Vermont with their cherished 1932 and 1940 Fords. The sheer number of similar models might suggest monotony, yet each 'Deuce' possesses a distinct character, reflecting the owner's personal touch. The author vividly describes the thrill of recognizing cars and their owners around town, fostering a sense of community among participants. Riding with Gordie Strongman in his customized '32 for the pre-show rally further underscored the individuality each build possesses, despite the common chassis.

The enduring appeal of the 1932 Ford as a canvas for modification stems from its exceptional design and engineering for its era. Introduced with a powerful 65-horsepower V-8 engine in an affordable, all-steel body, the '32 was revolutionary. Its robust performance and straightforward construction made it an ideal candidate for customization, whether for racing or aesthetic enhancement. The availability of numerous body styles—from sleek roadsters to practical panel trucks—each inherently stylish, further cemented its status. Over the decades, hot-rodders consistently adapted the '32 to evolving trends, ensuring its perpetual coolness. Personal stories, such as Ed Gilbertson's journey from teenage admirer to Ferrari judge and eventually '32 owner, exemplify this lasting fascination. Similarly, Joey Hawley, a young enthusiast, showcases the contemporary evolution of 'Deuce' customization, blending classic lines with cutting-edge technology, proving that the spirit of hot-rodding is continuously innovative.

The 2025 Deuce Days attracted approximately 1300 registered vehicles from various countries and regions, with over 500 being 1932 models. This impressive turnout transforms the event into an immersive automotive history lesson, demonstrating how a single car model can embrace diverse aesthetics and technological advancements across different eras. The adaptability of the '32 Ford ensures its continuous relevance and appeal to new generations of car enthusiasts. Al Clark's original vision and the city of Victoria's commitment have ensured the legacy of this iconic event. For those inspired to join this vibrant community, there remains ample time to embark on their own hot rod project before the next Northwest Deuce Days in 2028.

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