The automotive world frequently sees vehicles customized to evoke the spirit of legendary models, and a prime example is the Suzuki Jimny, often celebrated for its rugged simplicity and off-road prowess. Recently, a specific 2023 Jimny has garnered attention as it hits the auction block, distinguished by a unique bodykit from the acclaimed Japanese firm, DAMD. This particular conversion, known as the 'Little D' kit, ingeniously reshapes the compact SUV to mimic the iconic Land Rover Defender, presenting a fascinating blend of practicality and nostalgic design. The transformation extends beyond aesthetics, reflecting a playful yet reverent nod to a motoring giant, complete with a distinctive grille, revamped bumpers, and custom bonnet lettering that subtly alludes to its inspiration.
Further enhancing its unique appeal, this customized Jimny showcases a classic British countryside-inspired green paint finish, perfectly complemented by bespoke 15-inch alloy wheels, also designed by DAMD. The interior has received an equally thoughtful upgrade, featuring eye-catching tartan seat upholstery that adds a touch of traditional charm and comfort. Underneath its charming exterior, the vehicle is powered by a 1.5-liter engine producing 101bhp, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. This ensures that while the 'Little D' is certainly a head-turner, it maintains the Jimny's inherent capability for adventure, equipped with a low-range gearbox and hill descent control. Having been imported from Japan, where it was originally a 2023 model, it has accumulated just over 9,000 miles, indicating its relatively fresh condition.
This bespoke Suzuki Jimny stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of clever automotive design and customization, proving that character and capability aren't exclusive to larger, more expensive vehicles. It invites us to appreciate the ingenuity that can transform an already beloved car into something even more special, injecting joy and personality into every journey. The willingness to embrace unique style, even if it invites a few playful jests, ultimately enriches the motoring experience and celebrates individuality.
In the evolving landscape of compact performance vehicles, the dynamic hot-hatch category has narrowed, with two prominent models leading the charge: the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla and the 2025 Volkswagen Golf R. Both boast turbocharged engines and advanced all-wheel-drive systems, catering to driving enthusiasts seeking exhilarating performance. However, their philosophies diverge significantly, offering distinct personalities for buyers to consider. Toyota embraces its rally heritage, delivering a raw and engaging experience, while Volkswagen opts for a more sophisticated and polished approach, blending power with premium interior amenities. These differing design priorities create a compelling choice for consumers, highlighting the varied interpretations of what constitutes a top-tier hot hatch.
Key distinctions between these two automotive powerhouses begin with their powertrains and sophisticated traction systems. The GR Corolla is propelled by a compact yet potent 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, generating 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, with a signature triple-pipe exhaust emphasizing its rally roots. This contrasts with the Golf R's more conventional 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, which offers a slightly higher 328 horsepower and the same 295 lb-ft of torque, delivering a broader and smoother power band suitable for effortless highway cruising. Furthermore, their all-wheel-drive systems offer different driving dynamics. Toyota’s GR-Four system provides customizable torque distribution, allowing drivers to tailor the car's behavior from balanced grip to a playful, rear-biased setup. Volkswagen’s system, on the other hand, utilizes an advanced torque-vectoring rear differential to enhance cornering precision and even features a dedicated Drift mode, catering to a more refined track-focused experience. When it comes to straight-line performance, the Golf R, with its optional seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, generally achieves slightly quicker 0-60 mph times, while the GR Corolla, exclusively available with a six-speed manual, appeals to purists who prioritize direct mechanical engagement over marginal speed advantages.
The differences extend beyond performance to pricing and cabin experience, influencing their appeal to various buyers. The Toyota GR Corolla offers a more accessible entry point, with its Core trim starting around $40,355, presenting remarkable value for a high-performance, AWD vehicle. Its interior, while functional, maintains a more utilitarian feel, prioritizing lightweight construction and driver focus. In stark contrast, the Volkswagen Golf R commands a higher starting price of approximately $48,325, ascending further with optional upgrades. This premium cost is justified by a more luxurious cabin, featuring Nappa leather seats, a high-end Harman Kardon sound system, a large touchscreen, and a digital cockpit. The Golf R's ride quality also strikes a better balance between comfort and sportiness, making it a more refined daily driver. Ultimately, the choice between these two hot hatches reflects a driver's priorities: the GR Corolla offers raw, unadulterated driving excitement at a more competitive price, while the Golf R provides a more potent, technologically advanced, and comfortable experience for those willing to invest in its premium features.
Ultimately, the 2025 Toyota GR Corolla and 2025 Volkswagen Golf R stand as vivid examples of driving passion enduring in a market increasingly dominated by SUVs. They remind us that innovation and dedication to performance can create vehicles that not only stir the soul but also offer practical versatility. Choosing between their distinct approaches underscores the vibrant diversity still available in automotive engineering, proving that the pursuit of excellence can take many forms, each contributing to the richness of driving culture.
Volkswagen is poised to revolutionize the electric vehicle market with its forthcoming ID.2 SUV, a compact crossover designed to be an accessible entry point into its electric lineup. While current VW electric offerings such as the ID.3 and ID.4 cater to the mid-range and premium segments, the automotive giant recognizes the rising demand for more budget-friendly options, particularly with fierce competition emerging from other European and Chinese manufacturers. This strategic move aims to broaden EV adoption by offering a compelling alternative that balances affordability with performance and practicality.
Scheduled for its grand reveal on September 7, just before the IAA Mobility Show in Munich, the ID.2 SUV draws inspiration from the ID.2all hatchback concept introduced in 2023. Volkswagen describes the hatchback as combining the spaciousness of a Golf with the economic footprint of a Polo, and the SUV variant is expected to follow this successful formula, albeit with a more robust and versatile body style. Early design sketches reveal a bold, upright profile that is distinctly more angular than its larger sibling, the ID.4. Though the concept features exaggerated elements like oversized wheels and glowing light bars, these will likely be refined for the production model to meet practical and regulatory standards. Key design distinctions, such as a unique rear pillar with three slots, lend the SUV a character separate from its hatchback counterpart, promising a distinctive presence on the road. With dimensions similar to the VW T-Cross, measuring approximately 4,050 mm in length and boasting a 2,600 mm wheelbase, the dedicated EV platform is set to maximize interior volume, providing a surprisingly spacious cabin for a compact crossover.
Underpinning the new ID.2 SUV is the enhanced MEB+ platform, configured with a front-wheel-drive system. This setup is projected to deliver 222 horsepower from a single electric motor, enabling a 0-62 mph acceleration in under seven seconds and a top speed of 99 mph. Prospective buyers will have a choice of two battery capacities: a 38 kWh option ideal for urban commutes and a more substantial 56 kWh pack that boasts an impressive WLTP-certified range of up to 280 miles. Inside the cabin, Volkswagen is integrating modern digital interfaces with user-friendly physical controls, featuring a large 12.9-inch infotainment display and a 10.9-inch driver’s screen, addressing previous feedback from consumers. The vehicle will also incorporate customizable drive modes, harkening back to classic VW models like the Golf and Beetle. Expected to launch at a starting price of around \u20ac25,000 (approximately $29,000), the ID.2 SUV will be significantly more accessible than the ID.3 and ID.4, making electric vehicle ownership a reality for a broader segment of the market. Volkswagen's commitment to affordable electric mobility will continue with the planned release of an even smaller ID.1 in 2026, targeted at around \u20ac20,000.
As Volkswagen pushes the boundaries of accessible electric mobility with the ID.2 SUV, it exemplifies a forward-thinking approach that democratizes sustainable transportation. By offering competitive range, modern features, and an attractive price point, Volkswagen is not merely selling cars; it is fostering a movement towards a greener, more inclusive future where electric vehicles are within reach for everyone, paving the way for widespread environmental stewardship and technological advancement.