Electric Cars

A federal inquiry, spanning two years, into concerns regarding bent or misshapen tie rods in specific 2021 Nissan Rogue models has concluded, with the decision not to issue a recall for these crossover vehicles. In 2024, the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received reports suggesting that some 2021 Nissan Rogue crossovers experienced internal tie rod failures, potentially leading to a loss of steering control. This issue initially raised alarms for over 250,000 Rogue units; however, the investigation has now been closed without a recall. This outcome was primarily due to a limited number of complaints and the specific environmental conditions under which the tie rod failures were observed.

The Nissan Rogue holds the position of the automaker's top-selling vehicle in the U.S., making any potential safety defect a significant concern for thousands of SUV owners. Allegations concerning bent and deformed tie rods highlighted that these components could disrupt wheel alignment, trigger steering problems, and cause premature tire wear. In response, the ODI meticulously examined owner questionnaires, incident reports, warranty claims, and other data provided by Nissan. The investigation also considered factors such as vehicle age, mileage, and the severity of reported incidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation report concluded that, based on the reviewed data, there was a low incidence of tie rod bending or deformation relative to the total number of vehicles in question. The findings did not reveal a consistent failure pattern, a common manufacturing period, uniform mileage at which failures occurred, or a repeatable failure mode that would suggest a safety-related defect. Furthermore, the ODI discovered that many reported incidents were associated with various impact-related damages, such as collisions with potholes, curb strikes, road debris impacts, prior accident damage, and other unusual steering or suspension stresses. Consequently, the investigation was closed on August 24, 2026, and no recall was initiated for the SUV. However, the NHTSA will continue to monitor any future incidents. It is noteworthy that the Nissan Sentra faced a recall for similar tie rod and steering issues in 2023.

Tie rods are essential elements within a vehicle's steering mechanism, bridging the steering rack and the steering knuckle to enable wheel articulation during turns. Symptoms of loose or compromised tie rods can include a shaking or vibrating steering wheel, excessive play in the steering, or audible knocking or clunking sounds, particularly when maneuvering the vehicle at low speeds. Should dirt and debris infiltrate these components, drivers might also perceive a grinding noise when turning. In severe cases, a worn or fractured tie rod can lead to a complete loss of vehicle control, substantially elevating the risk of a collision. While Nissan can breathe a sigh of relief with the closure of this investigation, the automaker is already contending with a more pressing reliability concern related to the Rogue. Earlier this year, Nissan extended the engine warranty due to widespread failures of the vehicle's three-cylinder VC-Turbo engine. It is important to note that this engine is not present in the 2021 Rogue models involved in the tie rod investigation, as those vehicles were equipped with an older 2.5-liter non-turbo engine.

The comprehensive review by the Office of Defects Investigation into the 2021 Nissan Rogue's tie rod concerns underscores a commitment to automotive safety and consumer protection. While a formal recall was deemed unnecessary due to the isolated nature of reported incidents, this process highlights the ongoing vigilance required to maintain vehicle reliability. Moving forward, the emphasis remains on robust manufacturing practices and diligent maintenance, ensuring that vehicles on our roads meet the highest safety standards and foster peace of mind for every driver.

The arrival of Bentley's first fully electric vehicle, the Torcal SUV, is eagerly awaited. We recently had the opportunity to experience a prototype of this luxurious electric SUV in Monterey, California, revealing several intriguing details that set the stage for its official unveiling in the coming weeks.

Sharing its foundation with the advanced Porsche Cayenne Electric, the Torcal boasts an identical 119.0-inch wheelbase and a sleek, low roofline. Bentley has made subtle modifications to its dimensions, notably shortening the front overhang and extending the rear, aiming for a more compact and athletic profile compared to its larger sibling, the Bentayga. This strategic design is intended to draw in a new demographic of clientele. Under the hood, the Torcal will feature a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive system, with initial estimates suggesting a formidable output of at least 838 horsepower and 738 pound-feet of torque when using launch control. Power will be supplied by a 108-kWh lithium-ion battery, utilizing an 800-volt electrical architecture that supports rapid 390-kW charging, and is projected to offer an impressive range exceeding 300 miles. The vehicle also incorporates a specially calibrated version of Porsche's Active Ride suspension, optimized by Bentley for superior ride comfort and stability, rather than aggressive cornering, delivering the smooth cruising characteristics of a Bentayga or Flying Spur while maintaining the agile handling of a Continental GT. Optional carbon-ceramic brakes and choices of 21- or 22-inch wheels with various tire selections will further enhance its performance. Inside, the Torcal's cabin, despite being slightly more compact than the Bentayga, offers ample space and will exclusively feature a five-seat configuration, with powered rear seats providing recline, heating, and ventilation functions. The dashboard integrates a curved central touchscreen derived from the Cayenne, alongside a new 'Curation Engine' rotary controller for managing soundscapes and ambient lighting. Notably, the traditional physical climate controls have been replaced by touchscreen-based adjustments. Bentley has also engineered a unique synthetic sound profile for the Torcal, blending instrumental tones to evoke the distinctive engine notes of its classic internal-combustion models, which will vary in intensity based on drive mode and drivetrain load.

With production slated to begin next year, the Torcal is expected to reach U.S. dealerships as a 2028 model, positioned at a starting price below that of the Bentayga. This innovative electric SUV is set to make a significant impact, complementing Bentley's existing lineup of hybrid and gasoline-powered vehicles and solidifying its presence in the burgeoning luxury EV market.

The Bentley Torcal represents a bold stride into the future of luxury automotive. It successfully melds groundbreaking electric performance with the brand's signature opulence and meticulous engineering. This advancement not only caters to evolving environmental sensibilities but also propels the automotive industry towards a more sustainable and exhilarating future, proving that eco-consciousness and high performance can coexist harmoniously.