Auto – Engine Icon https://engineicon.com Latest car news and advice blog Tue, 14 Jul 2026 02:07:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1 https://engineicon.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/cropped-ME_favicon-1-32x32.png Auto – Engine Icon https://engineicon.com 32 32 Record Auto Aftermarket Expo attendance https://engineicon.com/record-auto-aftermarket-expo-attendance/ Mon, 18 May 2026 07:18:40 +0000 https://engineicon.com/record-auto-aftermarket-expo-attendance/

MELBOURNE has again played host to the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, with the biennial event and its co-located Collision Repair Expo drawing 15,000 visitors across three days to set a new attendance record for the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest automotive trade event.

 

Exhibiting more than 400 brands across 21,000m2 of the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre with tools, workshop equipment, diagnostics, technology, parts, accessories and business solutions on display, the event served up free world-class training, live demonstrations, networking opportunities, and hands-on learning designed to help workshops, technicians, and automotive professionals stay ahead in a rapidly changing industry.

 

With new product launches and the latest innovations in workshop equipment, electrified drivetrain technologies, performance products, and business systems from Australia’s leading suppliers and global brands, Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association CEO Stuart Charity said Expo visitors were somewhat spoiled for choice.

 

“The 2026 Expo exceeded every expectation and has taken this event to another level entirely,” he said.

 

“There is so much to see, do and learn; from the latest tools and technology to free world-class training and networking that can help grow businesses and further careers.”

 

Indeed, the variety of product, skill, and ingenuity on display at this year’s Expo made judging the best in the business a more difficult task than ever before.

 

The Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards Breakfast recognised the companies delivering the industry’s most innovative new products, programs and campaigns, welcoming industry guests ahead of the official opening of the Expo.

 

On Thursday evening the Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards Banquet brought together hundreds of industry leaders to celebrate outstanding achievement across the aftermarket.

 

A highlight of the industry calendar, the Awards Banquet recognised excellence across manufacturing, exports, business leadership, workplace culture, education, and community impact, while also celebrating individuals making a significant contribution to the future of the industry.

 

“The Awards events are always one of the most rewarding parts of the Expo because they shine a spotlight on the incredible talent, innovation and commitment across our industry,” said Mr Charity.

 

With several internation trainers travelling to Melbourne for the event – including diagnostic experts Steve Smith from the UK, Scott Hicks from the USA, and Keith and Liz Perkins from the USA – the Expo gave attendees the opportunity to better understand ADAS technology and calibration processes, sensor systems, and vehicle diagnostics.

 

Next-generation technicians were also offered the opportunity to showcase their skills at the Flying Spanners competition area where automotive apprentices raced the clock through a series of fast-paced practical challenges, with Brandon Booth from Bomaderry in NSW emerging as the 2026 winner.

 

Speaking with GoAuto at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, FMP Group (Bendix) chief executive officer George Kyriakopoulos said winning the Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product at this year’s Expo recognised the ongoing innovation and hard work of the local Bendix team.

 

“We are a business that wants to continually improve things, right across the board, and this award recognises the hard work of our team – a team that works to improve our products, to make things even better than before, and to innovate wherever possible,” he said.

 

“It’s such a proud moment to be recognised for that. It’s a team effort, and this is team recognition … it recognises that a lot of people have been involved in getting everything that we do to where it is.

 

“It also means a lot for an Australian company to win this award. The innovation that Australians have, that they’ve always had, is something important, and that is reflected in the quality of our products.

 

“We are very proud to sit against any international competition, because we can come up with and improve on things. We’re always looking to make things better for the Australian car-buying public, and for drivers and workshop owners in general.”

 

Innovation in sustainability was also recognised in Melbourne, with Adelaide-based Redarc Electronics recognised with the Automotive Business Sustainability Award.

 

The company has received multiple Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards over the years, with Redarc CEO Anthony Kittel telling GoAuto that sustainability was an important part of doing business.

 

“Our team the is dedicated to sustainability in everything that we do … and it’s something that is front of mind in every project and every product,” he explained.

 

“In fact, sustainability is one of our core business values, and it’s an honour to be recognised for something that is built into the ethos of everything we do.”

 

Away from the awards, it was the innovation and growth of familiar names in the aftermarket industry that differentiated this year’s Expo most from 2024.

 

Both existing and new participants at the show stepped up their presence at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, reflecting their confidence in the industry – and their own businesses.

 

Schaeffler Australia was one of the many businesses to have developed its presence considerably in recent times, with the company’s Vehicle Lifetime Solutions manager (Pacific) Warren Bartlett telling GoAuto the company now offers parts for Asian-made vehicles.

 

“What we bring to the (after) market are repair solutions, comprehensive kits that allow workshops to do the job right the first time by offering every component required to complete a certain task,” he explained.

 

“The big drive for us now is launching into the Asian range of the market, and to highlight that we have solutions available for not only the European side of the market, but also for Toyota, Hyundai, and other Asian marques.

 

“When people think Schaeffler, they typically think European, and that’s a bit of a misconception. We have been working with our counterparts in Asia in some cases for the last 40 years … so we have a long history with many of the large Asian manufacturers.”

 

Importantly, Mr Bartlett explained that Schaeffler parts and repair kits are the same as supplied to the OEM, ensuring workshops and repairers can fit a genuine part, avoiding the uncertainty that is often associated with third-party parts.

 

“As OE suppliers, we are very well placed to supply parts and repair kits for a wide range of vehicles from most manufacturers,” he said.

 

Mr Bartlett said it was also important to consider how replacing a like-for-like component could extend the life of a vehicle, saving not only cost to the customer, but also to the environment.

 

“By offering the component itself, say for example a mechatronics unit, we are able to extend the life of a unit, like a transmission, that would otherwise be replaced, or lead to the car itself scrapped,” he explained.

 

“These are the kinds of things we look at. We are now even able to offer kits that extend the life of EVs, which have previously been quite challenging – and that’s a great opportunity. We have a lot of those things going on in the background.

 

“We want to stop cars going to landfill unnecessarily. With the right components and OE repairs, there is no reason we can’t keep them on the road for as long as we can.”

 

And when it comes to keeping cars on the road, it is the next generation of mechanics and technicians that will be responsible for just that.

 

The automotive apprentices participating in this year’s Flying Spanners competition showed their talents in diagnostic and repairs, skills that will see some of the finest move on to compete at the WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai later this year.

 

Speaking with GoAuto at the Flying Spanners stand, TAFE New South Wales head teacher of automotive trades Kirk Trease said learnings made in competition placed students in the right frame of mind to deal with real-world challenges.

 

“There are a lot of challenges here that will stress people, both mentally and physically, which is a good representation of what technicians encounter in a modern workshop,” he said.

 

“Today, your average technician needs to be able to research documentation, the source data, and to also possess the technical skills that allow them to implement that information into a vehicle.

 

“That’s why competitions like this are a great lead up to the realities of the real-world – and to the range of skills required to compete in something like the WorldSkills Competition.”

 

Only the best of the best will represent Australia on the global stage, with candidates often progressing to become highly skilled technicians in their elected field.

 

“With the WorldSkills Competition coming up in Shanghai later this year, we are expecting our apprentices to really step up. They are competing against the best, and they are all there for a reason,” he explained.

 

“There is a lot of preparation involved. This event is literally like the Olympics for automotive apprentices; they get to represent their country on the world stage.

 

“It’s a very steep learning curve, especially with diagnostics, EVs, and ADAS becoming a critical part of what they do.

 

“But the younger generation certainly has the capacity to understand all of that, and they understand that this is a trade that doesn’t just require you to be physically fit, but one that requires you to be mentally articulate.

 

“These young ladies and gentlemen have grown up with this kind of technology, they live in this environment, and they’re very well placed to understand and excel in this field. It’s a great career path.”

 

For young people at the Awards Banquet, the event also provided an opportunity to be inspired by outstanding individuals and organisations whose contribution and leadership within the industry were celebrated.

 

John Blanchard Junior from CoolDrive Auto Parts received the prestigious Outstanding Service to Industry Award, while Doug Steindl from Zeder Corporation was recognised with the Kim Aunger Young Achiever Award.

 

Chelsea Lawson was awarded the Women at the Wheel Award, and Clint Flower received the Automotive Education Excellence Award.

 

Stuart Charity was also honoured by his peers for his 20 years’ service to the industry, as the CEO of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association.

 

Three respected industry leaders were also inducted into the AAAA Hall of Fame in recognition of their outstanding long-term contribution to the automotive aftermarket industry.

 

Steve Broad, Shayne Quaile and Allan Gray OAM were acknowledged for their dedication, leadership and lasting impact on the industry over many years.

 

“The show floor was buzzing for three straight days, exhibitors invested in spectacular displays, and the level of engagement, networking and business activity was exceptional,” said Mr Charity.

 

“The Expo brings the industry together like nothing else – connecting workshop owners, technicians, collision repairers, manufacturers, suppliers and industry leaders face-to-face to share ideas and invest in the future of the industry.”

 

2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Excellence Awards:

 

Outstanding Service to Industry: John Blanchard Junior, CoolDrive Auto Parts

Kim Aunger Young Achiever Award: Doug Steindl, Zeder Corporation

AAAA Hall of Fame Inductee: Steve Broad

AAAA Hall of Fame Inductee: Shayne Quaile

AAAA Hall of Fame Inductee: Allan Gray OAM

Women at the Wheel Award: Chelsea Lawson

Automotive Education Excellence Award: Clint Flower

Terry Mahoney Excellence in Marketing Award: Don Kyatt Group

Excellence in Manufacturing Award: Redarc Electronics

Excellence in Export Award: Don Kyatt Group

Excellence in Employee Engagement & Wellbeing Award: Zeder Corporation

Excellence in Repair & Service Chain Award: JAX Tyres & Auto

 

2026 Australian Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards:

 

Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product Four Wheel Drive: Cruisemaster

Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product General Parts & Accessories: BWI

Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product Electrical: FMP Group

Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product Performance: Valvoline

Most Innovative New Servicing Product Tools & Equipment: Logicar

Automotive Business Sustainability Award: Redarc Electronics

Most Innovative Community Impact Program: Fulcrum Suspensions

Most Innovative Marketing Campaign: Repco

Most Innovative E-commerce Solution: Zeder Corporation

 

2026 Auto Aftermarket Expo Stand Awards:

 

Best Stand 36 Square Metres and Under: Podium

Best Stand Over 36 Square Metres: CoolDrive Auto Parts

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Leapmotor C10 review | Auto Express https://engineicon.com/leapmotor-c10-review-auto-express/ Sat, 16 May 2026 08:30:33 +0000 https://engineicon.com/leapmotor-c10-review-auto-express/

The mapping is a nice design that feels pretty similar to Google’s offering, and there’s an app store that lets you add Spotify, for instance, but this still isn’t enough to make up for the lack of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity here.

Also similar to a smartphone is the pull-down menu with about a dozen shortcut buttons, which you can customise. However, we didn’t particularly enjoy using the climate control functions within the screen; physical buttons would be preferable. 

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Leapmotor says it will roll out over-the-air updates for life on the C10, and we hope that one item high up in its list is a fix for the night mode setting. On too many occasions, the screen switches to dark, then back to light, depending on external factors (going under a tree can upset it, for example). 

The 10.25-inch driver’s screen is configurable, but only for three different small readouts on one side, and the small font can make it hard to read things at a glance. The resolution of all screens is great, however.  

Rear-seat space is exceptional, but this comes at the expense of boot space

Pros

  • Spacious interior, with acres of legroom for rear-seat passengers
  • Panoramic sunroof fills the cabin with light
  • 34-litre ‘frunk’ under the bonnet is big enough for the charging cables

Cons

  • Boot space is disappointing for a car of this size
  • No clever or practical features we would expect in a family SUV
  • Hardly any creature comforts for rear-seat passengers

When it comes to family cars, it’s not solely about the amount of space on offer. We like to see the little touches that will make everyday life easier for you and your loved ones, such as the umbrella that Skoda hides in the driver’s door of the Enyaq and Elroq, or the rather aptly named ‘ingenious rear armrest’ with built-in smartphone and tablet holders that you get in the Renault Scenic. But aside from ‘silicone leather’ seat upholstery, which should be easier to clean, the Leapmotor C10 lacks clever, practical features.

Dimensions and size

The Leapmotor C10 measures 4,739mm long, with a wheelbase of 2,825mm, and it’s 1,900mm wide and 1,680mm high. That means it’s larger than the already sizable Skoda Enyaq, and is almost the same as the Tesla Model Y, yet it offers significantly less boot space than either, or even some small SUVs.

Dimensions comparison 
Model Leapmotor C10 Skoda Enyaq Renault Scenic
Length 4,739mm 4,658mm 4,470mm
Width  1,900mm 1,879mm 1,864mm
Height 1,680mm 1,622mm 1,572mm
Wheelbase 2,825mm 2,766mm 2,785mm
Boot space 

435 litres (EV)

400 litres (REEV)

585 litres 545 litres

Seats & passenger space 

There’s a good amount of adjustment in the driver’s seat and the steering wheel, but for some reason, you cannot lower the front passenger seat. It’s not the biggest problem in the world, because your passenger simply gets a lofty view of the road ahead.

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Cupra Tavascan review | Auto Express https://engineicon.com/cupra-tavascan-review-auto-express/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 07:46:05 +0000 https://engineicon.com/cupra-tavascan-review-auto-express/

We’ve put the Cupra Tavascan through its paces against the Ford Capri in a twin test, and our pictures editor, Dawn Grant, has even run a V1 trim Tavascan as part of our long-term fleet.

Cupra Tavascan prices and latest deals

How much does the Cupra Tavascan cost? Well, official ‘on the road’ prices range from £47,340 to £62,760 but you can currently save an average of £12,407 through the Auto Express Find A Car service, where prices start at £35,567. Don’t want to buy? You can lease a Cupra Tavascan from £413 per month.

Check out our latest new car deals and leasing deals for the top offers available now on Auto Express. And don’t forget we can help you sell your car, too.

So, we’ve already placed a lot of focus on the Tavascan’s price, and here it is: £47,400. That gets you behind the wheel of the V1 model, which features a 77kWh battery and a 282bhp electric motor driving the rear wheels. This powertrain is also offered in V2 trim for around £6,000 more than the V1. 

Two motors are fitted to the near £56,000 VZ1, making the Tavascan four-wheel drive with total power output of 335bhp. The top-spec model is the VZ2, which adds roughly £5,000 to the VZ1’s price. Both of these models feature the same 77kWh battery as the V1 and V2 models.

You can save a considerable amount by building your perfect Cupra Tavascan with the Auto Express Buy a Car service. We also have a wide range of Tavascan leasing deals to choose from. We can even help you to sell your car.

VW-derived running gear has been tuned to deliver a sporty drive, but it’s not all good news

Pros

  • A well-balanced chassis with decent handling
  • Adaptive dampers offer a wide range of abilities
  • Strong grip and rapid acceleration are highlights

Cons

  • Inconsistent feel to the brake pedal
  • Standard dampers deliver an overly firm ride
  • Rearward visibility is hampered by the sporty coupe-SUV shape

The Tavascan’s powertrains are impressive, but the choice is more limited than in some other alternatives in this segment. With no entry-level model offered in the vein of the 168bhp option available in the Ford Capri or Ford Explorer (two cars that use the same running gear as the Tavascan), the Cupra’s base price is high. Instead, the range kicks off with a single-motor model which sends a healthy 282bhp to the rear wheels, while the 4Drive model has (as the name suggests) four-wheel drive, plus 335bhp from its twin-motor set-up. You pay for this performance, though, with the top-spec version of the Tavascan costing more than £60,000.

Model  Power 0-62mph Top speed
Tavascan V1 77kWh 282bhp 6.8 seconds 112mph
Tavascan V2 77kWh 282bhp 6.8 seconds 112mph
Tavascan VZ1 77kWh 335bhp 5.5 seconds 112mph

Electric motors, 0-60mph acceleration and top speed

The Tavascan fitted with a rear-mounted electric motor has more than enough performance – more than most buyers will need, in fact. The 0-62mph sprint takes 6.8 seconds, so few buyers will require the 335bhp option. 

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Auto Express | New and Used Car Reviews, News & Advice https://engineicon.com/auto-express-new-and-used-car-reviews-news-advice/ Thu, 09 Apr 2026 23:47:23 +0000 https://engineicon.com/auto-express-new-and-used-car-reviews-news-advice/

Our marketing claims explained. Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP.

Please contact the dealer for a personalised quote, including terms and conditions. Quote is subject to dealer requirements, including status and availability. Illustrations are based on personal contract hire, 9 month upfront fee, 48 month term, 8000 miles annually, inc VAT, excluding fees. Vehicle returned at term end.

Auto Express “Find A Car” is managed by Carwow Ltd. Auto Express “Find A Car” is a trading style of Carwow Studio Limited, which is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Carwow Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking and insurance distribution activities (firm reference number 767155). Carwow Ltd may introduce you to Carwow Leasey Limited (trading as Carwow Leasey). Carwow Leasey Limited is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for credit broking (firm reference number: 313486). Carwow Ltd and Carwow Leasey Limited are each credit brokers and not lenders. Carwow Ltd and Carwow Leasey Limited may receive a fee from retailers advertising finance and may receive a commission from partners (including dealers) for introducing customers. All finance offers and monthly payments shown are subject to application and status. If you’re unhappy with Auto Express or Carwow’s service, you may be able to contact the Financial Ombudsman (please see www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk for more information). Carwow Ltd (company no. 7103079), Carwow Leasey Limited (company no. 13601174) and Carwow Studio Ltd (company no. 13018565) are limited companies registered in England with their registered offices at Verde Building, 10 Bressenden Place, Victoria, London, SW1E 5DH. Carwow Studio Limited and Carwow Leasey Limited are wholly owned subsidiaries of Carwow Ltd.

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This Was the Wildest Porsche 911 at the New York Auto Show https://engineicon.com/this-was-the-wildest-porsche-911-at-the-new-york-auto-show/ Sun, 05 Apr 2026 02:01:39 +0000 https://engineicon.com/this-was-the-wildest-porsche-911-at-the-new-york-auto-show/

This year’s New York Auto Show is packed with crazy concept cars, stunning wagons, and rare metal, but sometimes it’s the familiar machines that leave the biggest impression. Case in point: a red Porsche 911 GT3 RS fitted with the Manthey Racing Kit. It’s arguably the most extreme road-legal 911 that’s ever been built, and we got to see it up close and personal at the 2026 New York Auto Show.

Aerodynamics Taken To The Extreme

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

Even in standard form, the GT3 RS has earned its “winged monster” nickname, especially once fitted with the Weissach package. Manthey follows that philosophy and takes it to a whole new level. The kit adds a more aggressive front lip with canards, wheel arch gurneys, underbody tweaks, rear aerodiscs, roof fins, and an even gnarlier diffuser. The standout feature remains the gargantuan carbon fibre rear wing with a massive shark fin and a drag reduction system (DRS). Altogether, the package generates over 1,000 kg (2,204 lbs) of downforce at 285 kph (177 mph), allowing it to lap tracks even faster.

Under The Skin

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

The kit does more than alter aerodynamics. Although the GT3 RS retains its original 518-hp naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, Manthey Racing tinkers with its driving dynamics. The chassis has been reworked thanks to a semi-active coilover suspension system that increases spring rates by up to 30% that allows for more precision when driving on the limit. Braking has also been improved with optional steel-braided lines for a more consistent pedal feel, along with race-focused pads designed to handle sustained high temperatures.

A Road-Legal Track Weapon

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

Despite all this, the car remains road legal, which is what makes the Manthey Kit even more impressive. Seeing it in person at the New York Auto Show just reminded us what a massive impact these upgrades have on its real-world performance around a track. The current GT3 RS Manthey Racing car is yet to set an official Nurburgring lap time, but we have times from the not-so-serious 991-generation GT3 for reference. The pre-facelift 911 GT3 equipped with a Manthey Racing kit clocked a time of 6 minutes 55.74 seconds, just 6 seconds behind the untouched GT3 RS.

Autocar lapped Silverstone in 2 minutes and 11.15 seconds – 2 seconds quicker than the standard GT3 RS. The company also makes a kit for the Taycan and 911 S/T. And once the facelifted GT3 RS hits the market, we’re sure to see another Manthey Racing kit hit the scene, and do what Porsche is too afraid to do: Make it less aesthetically appealing in favor of on-track performance.

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Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer | Auto Express https://engineicon.com/volkswagen-id-7-tourer-auto-express/ Sat, 28 Mar 2026 23:24:16 +0000 https://engineicon.com/volkswagen-id-7-tourer-auto-express/

The 77kWh battery has a maximum charging speed of 175kWs, while the 86kWh version ramps that up to 200kWs, so a 10 to 80 per cent charging window means top-up times using a suitably rapid charger take 28 minutes and 26 minutes, respectively. Utilising a more cost-effective 7kW home wallbox charger, it’ll take just over 12 hours to fully recharge the 77kWh battery, while the 86kWh takes just under 14 hours.

During our electric car charging speed test of an ID.7 Tourer Pro S, we found it could reach its advertised 200kW peak charging speed, and maintain that speed until the battery got to 50 per cent state of charge. More impressively, the 20 to 80 per cent top-up charge was faster than advertised, at just 21 minutes. If you need maximum range for a long trip, the ID.7 is capable of handling the 80 to 100 per cent in 16 minutes, or a quarter of the time it took a pre-facelift Tesla Model Y and a Peugeot E-3008, both of which were put through the same test. 

That shows that the ID.7 Tourer is well-suited to longer trips that involve stopping for a quick charge, and you can help even further by manually pre-conditioning the battery ahead of a charging stop, which means that you should reach peak charging speed much quicker than if you just plugged the car in to a rapid charger. Of course, the car will automatically precondition the battery if the route has been plotted into its sat-nav system, and it deems you’ll need to stop partway through your journey at a charger en route.

Model  Battery size Range Insurance group
Tourer Pro 77kWh 77kWh 373 miles 38E
Tourer Pro S 86kWh 86kWh 424 miles 38E
Tourer GTX 86kWh 86kWh 359 miles 41E

Insurance groups

In terms of insurance, both the Pro and Pro S versions of the ID.7 Tourer are in group 38, while the GTX Plus is in group 41, making it the most expensive model in the range to provide cover for. All versions of the ID.7 Tourer are in a lower group rating than the BMW i5 Tourer, though, which starts in group 43.

Tax

Company car drivers will benefit from lower Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rates compared with traditional petrol, diesel or even hybrid-powered cars such as the Volkswagen Passat, because of the lack of tailpipe emissions. The ID.7 is still an expensive car, so that will have a bearing on your monthly fee. The current BiK rate is three per cent, but it will rise to four per cent for the ‘26 to ’27 tax year, and five per cent from ‘27 to ‘28.

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Get a Car Wash Bundle for Under $13 During the Advance Auto Parts Spring Sale https://engineicon.com/get-a-car-wash-bundle-for-under-13-during-the-advance-auto-parts-spring-sale/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:24:11 +0000 https://engineicon.com/get-a-car-wash-bundle-for-under-13-during-the-advance-auto-parts-spring-sale/

Advance Auto Parts is still running great discounts on oil-change bundles and brake replacements that we’ve posted in the past. Now, it’s adding some nice car-wash bundles and deals on wiper blades you might want to check out as the weather thaws and snow becomes rain.

If you’re ordering anything from Advance Auto Parts at all, use promo code “PARTS15” to get 15% off orders over $35 and 20% off orders over $100. Some exclusions apply, but that’s a pretty sweet deal. Even if you have an Advance store locally, you should be able to use that for a buy-online, pick-up-in-store arrangement.

Soap + Bucket + Sponge Bundle ($12.99)

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More Spring Car Care Deals From Advance Auto Parts

Andrew P. Collins Avatar

Automotive journalist since 2013, Andrew primarily coordinates features, sponsored content, and multi-departmental initiatives at The Drive.


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Porsche patent’s Koenigsegg-style manual shifter for auto transmission https://engineicon.com/porsche-patents-koenigsegg-style-manual-shifter-for-auto-transmission/ Thu, 19 Mar 2026 01:22:09 +0000 https://engineicon.com/porsche-patents-koenigsegg-style-manual-shifter-for-auto-transmission/

Porsche is aware that its customers love the manual transmission. However, the advanced PDK does a much better job than a human being. So, how do you create a transmission that offers the best of both worlds – a slick dual-clutch automatic with an engaging driving experience of a manual?

Actually, Swedish hypercar maker Koenigsegg has already thought about this. The company introduced a 9-speed automatic transmission on the CC850, which comes with a 6-speed gated shifter.

Porsche auto-manual gearbox shifter patent

In a bid to replicate the same functionality, Porsche has filed a patent described as a “gear selector device for selecting gears of a motor vehicle transmission”. Instead of a mechanical linkage, it uses shift-by-wire.

Even though the manual transmission is going out of fashion, it’s popular among enthusiasts. Porsche is among the few automakers that offer a manual option in their sports cars. Currently, the Carrera T, Boxster and Cayman models are available with a manual transmission option.

Source: Autoexpress

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Ineos Grenadier review | Auto Express https://engineicon.com/ineos-grenadier-review-auto-express/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 23:12:30 +0000 https://engineicon.com/ineos-grenadier-review-auto-express/

“A real highlight is the Rhino Rack on the roof. The large steel add-on makes space for a roomy iKamper two-man pop-up tent, while bolted to the side is the ‘Bat Wing’ – a huge awning that unfurls through 270 degrees around the side and rear of the car.” – Dean Gibson, senior test editor.

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A long warranty and tech from proven suppliers should offer some peace of mind

Pros

  • Generous five-year, unlimited mileage warranty
  • Many components from well-established sources

Cons

  • No Euro NCAP rating
  • No Driver Power score

Ineos is still a pretty new arrival to the automotive world, but many of the Grenadier’s major components are bought in from already-established firms, so this should offer some peace of mind.

Safety kit is acceptable, although the Grenadier lacks some of the very latest tech. Automatic emergency braking is fitted as standard, along with lane-departure warning and a pre-collision system.

  • Best buy: Ineos Grenadier 3.0D Trialmaster

While low running costs will pretty much be a pipe dream if you’re driving around in a Grenadier, we’d still recommend opting for diesel power due to its slightly reduced thirst and superior torque. Investing the extra cash in a Trialmaster model will add a healthy list of additional kit into the mix, too.

Ineos Grenadier alternatives

The obvious rival for the Grenadier is the Land Rover Defender, as that car is the reason why the big Ineos exists. However, these two are very different in character, with the Defender’s air suspension giving it a wider breadth of ability. We think the Grenadier is better off-road, but the Land Rover is far less compromised on it.

Another rival is the Toyota Land Cruiser. As with the Defender, it can’t match the Grenadier off road, but is better on it. The retro-inspired looks are also appealing, while the cabin has a seven-seat layout.

Other options for off-road driving include the latest crop of double-cab pick-ups, such as the Ford Ranger and Volkswagen Amarok. These offer plush interiors at the top of the range, although a long wheelbase and large overhangs mean a Grenadier is still going to be more capable.

Frequently Asked Questions

A five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty demonstrates that Ineos has confidence that the Grenadier will go the distance. That cover is on a par with Hyundai, and well ahead of the coverage offered by the likes of Land Rover. There’s a two-year roadside assistance package available, too. 

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The 8 most exciting new cars at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show https://engineicon.com/the-8-most-exciting-new-cars-at-the-2019-chicago-auto-show/ Fri, 23 Jan 2026 17:08:11 +0000 https://engineicon.com/the-8-most-exciting-new-cars-at-the-2019-chicago-auto-show/

The world’s automakers gathered under the bright lights at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show on Thursday to show off some off their latest and greatest new cars, trucks, and SUVs. 

Though there weren’t many major debuts, this year’s show is notable in that nearly all of the flashy new cars unwrapped in Chicago will be in dealers by the end of the year. The redesigned 2020 Subaru Legacy touts a big tech upgrade inside and the allure of more underhood muscle, while a trio of pickup trucks debuted with more features and more power.

Crossover SUVs weren’t left out by any means. Toyota’s RAV4 now comes in TRD Off-Road guise and both Kia and Nissan made life-saving active safety tech more widely available.

Here’s a look at what got our attention at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show:

2020 Subaru Legacy, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Subaru Legacy, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Subaru Legacy

The biggest debut in Chicago was definitely the new Subaru Legacy. The new mid-size sedan is packed with tech and safety features, and it’s offered with a 260-hp turbocharged engine. Importantly, the Legacy also previews the next-generation Subaru Outback, which will almost certainly share the sedan’s 11.6-inch touchscreen and its turbo engine.

The lingering question: When will we see a new Outback? Our magic eight ball says that the New York auto show in April is a good bet. 

2020 Toyota Tacoma, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Toyota Tacoma, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Toyota Tacoma

The 2020 Tacoma isn’t a redesign, but it shows that Toyota pays attention. Features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, a passenger’s door sensor for the keyless ignition system, and a retuned suspension on the TRD Pro should address concerns we had with last year’s pickup truck.

The lingering question: With new competition from Ford and Jeep, will the Tacoma hold onto its position as the top-selling mid-size pickup? 

2020 Nissn Rogue Sport, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Nissn Rogue Sport, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Nissan Rogue Sport

The second-smallest of Nissan’s crossover SUVs hasn’t gone rogue for the new year. Instead, the automaker made active safety take more widely available and tweaked its headlights and taillights. We would have liked to see more power underhood or maybe an electrified option, but we’ll never say “no” to effective safety features. 

The lingering question: Did Nissan do anything to make the Rogue Sport perform better in crash tests? The 2019 model earned a troubling four-star rating from the NHTSA. 

2020 Toytota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Toytota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road

Toyota will have fun with its stylish new crossover SUV. The 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road isn’t a serious mud-plugger, but the automaker wants its compact crossover to get in on the TRD division’s popularity. A Toyota representative told The Car Connection that TRD trims represent about 40 percent of its pickup truck and larger SUV sales, so there’s real potential for the RAV4. 

The lingering question: Do the long-travel shocks and springs make the RAV4 TRD Off-Road better to drive both on- and off-road? 

2020 Chevrolet Silverado HD

2020 Chevrolet Silverado HD

2020 Chevrolet Silverado HD

With its 35,500-pound maximum trailer-towing rating, the 2020 Chevy Silverado HD is tops among big pickup trucks. Of course, that rating applies to a single version of the new Silverado HD, but this boldly styled big truck will certainly be a formidable lugger when it arrives in dealers this summer.

The lingering question: How long will Chevy hold the towing crown? 

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 VW Jetta GLI

VW’s under-the-radar sports sedan is back and it’s borrowing some GTI and Golf R go-fast and handle-great bits. It’s more powerful than last year’s model and rides on a much stiffer platform, so our expectations are high. Look for a 6-speed manual transmission and a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic when the GLI goes on sale soon.

The lingering question: Will the Jetta GLI once again be a Golf GTI with a trunk? 

2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Ford F-250 Super Duty, 2019 Chicago Auto Show

2020 Ford F-Series Super Duty

A new gas engine option headlines the 2020 Ford F-Series Super Duty, but the truckmaker isn’t willing to talk towing yet. Does it really matter if it’ll be rated as high as 35,501 pounds to top the Silverado HD? Probably not—and it won’t be with the new gas engine. 

The lingering question: If diesel’s the choice for most heavy duty truck buyers, why bother with a gas engine? Maybe we’ll see it in another Ford… 

2020 Kia Sportage

2020 Kia Sportage

2020 Kia Sportage

Toned-down looks and more active safety mark an early 2020 for the Kia Sportage. Kia added some worthwhile collision-avoidance tech to the Sportage’s options list. We like the new, Stinger-inspired front end and the available LED headlights. Good news: the Sportage’s sprightly turbo-4 engine option sticks around. 

The lingering question: Why didn’t Kia make the new active safety tech standard equipment? 



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