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Kia EV3 Named World Car of the Year
Andrew Evans
April 17, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
McLaren claps back at Red Bull over flexi-wings
Race-rigging scandal hits Gran Turismo
Next Miata to remain lightweight and manual
Departing FIA deputy hits out at eroding principles
Porsche Vision GT steering wheel becomes reality
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
The Kia EV3 has been recognized as the 2025 World Car of the Year, triumphing over competitors such as the Hyundai Inster and BMW X3. This accolade, follows the car’s recent win as the UK Car of the Year, and is a second successive WCOTY win for Kia after the EV9 in 2024.
As the current generation of the Miata approaches its tenth anniversary, enthusiasts are eager for a new iteration of the beloved roadster, though concerns about hybrid or electric options adding weight have been raised. Mazda's senior leadership has indicated that the next-generation car continue to prioritize a lighter design, a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine and manual transmission.
Carlos Tavares, the former CEO of Stellantis, received a compensation package of €23.1 million ($26.3 million) for his performance in 2024, despite significant profit declines that year. While 67% of shareholders approved this payment, some investors criticized it as inappropriate given the company's struggles, including a 70% drop in profits and a decline in sales.
The Porsche 911 GT3 has set a new record as the quickest manual vehicle to complete a lap at the Nürburgring, achieving a time of 6 minutes and 56.294 seconds, which surpasses the previous record by nearly 10 seconds. This time, achieved by former racer Jörg Bergmeister, highlights the model's performance, particularly in comparison to the previous manual record holder, the Dodge Viper ACR, despite the latter's more powerful engine.
The current Subaru WRX is unlikely to see a more powerful STI variant due to stringent emissions regulations in Europe, which have significantly impacted the sports car market. Subaru's European division head indicated that the brand is exploring electrification as a means to reintroduce sporty models while complying with these environmental standards.
Horse, a collaboration between Geely and Renault, has introduced a hybrid powertrain that can be integrated into existing electric vehicles without extensive modifications. This compact unit supports various fuel types and can function as either a traditional hybrid or a range extender, providing manufacturers with flexibility as they navigate the evolving automotive landscape.
BMW is set to unveil the VDX at Auto Shanghai 2025, and recent teaser images reveal the concept car without any camouflage ahead of its debut. This vehicle, which showcases an impressive 1,700 horsepower from a quad-motor system, represents a significant leap in performance compared to the upcoming electric M3, hinting at a future where BMW's M division fully embraces electric technology.
Kia has unveiled its 2026 EV4 at the New York International Auto Show, marking the brand's entry into the global all-electric sedan market. This model, designed with an aerodynamic silhouette and a focus on practicality, will be available in three different trims and is expected to reach US consumers in early 2026.
Hyundai's Palisade, a popular model since its debut in 2020, will undergo significant enhancements for 2026, including hybrid options, updated aesthetics, and the introduction of an off-road-oriented XRT variant. To accommodate the larger Santa Fe, the Palisade's dimensions will increase, featuring a more assertive front design, larger wheels, and revised rear lighting, all contributing to a more robust appearance.
MOTORSPORT
McLaren has responded to Red Bull's scrutiny of its flexible rear wing by emphasizing that teams make distinct technical decisions regarding wing stiffness, suggesting that Red Bull's choice to avoid flexibility is a strategic one. The ongoing debate highlights the competitive tension in Formula 1, with both teams navigating the regulations while addressing performance trade-offs related to downforce and speed.
Robert Reid recently stepped down from his role as FIA deputy president for sport, citing a troubling lack of communication and transparency within the organization as key factors in his decision. In a detailed statement, he expressed his concerns about governance issues, including the internalization of the World Rallycross Championship and the enforced signing of non-disclosure agreements, which he believes undermine the integrity of the sport.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed a wish for heightened rivalries and controversies among teams, emphasizing their historical importance in the sport. He noted that while current disputes, particularly regarding flexible wings, seem less significant than past scandals, they still contribute to the competitive nature of Formula 1.
Carlos Sainz has urged his Williams team to address a critical issue that he believes has hindered their performance for several years. Despite a promising start to the season and his recent progress in qualifying, Sainz emphasizes the necessity of comprehending and resolving this problem to enhance the team's future competitiveness, especially with upcoming regulatory changes.
Oliver Oakes, who became Alpine's team principal in August 2024, is navigating the complexities of Formula 1's political landscape while managing team operations during a challenging phase for the manufacturer. Engaging in discussions about the sport's future, including the potential return to V10 engines, Oakes emphasizes the importance of evaluating current regulations and their relevance to both fans and the racing experience.
Lando Norris has been identified as the Formula 1 driver rumored to have participated in private testing with World Rally Championship vehicles, a speculation that gained traction last season. Former F1 journalist Peter Windsor recently confirmed Norris's involvement, praising his skills in both rallying and golf, which he believes contributed to Norris's impressive performance during the Australian Grand Prix.
George Russell has acknowledged that he does not consider himself a contender for the Formula 1 championship this season, despite a promising start that includes three podium finishes in the first four races. Currently ranked fourth in the standings and trailing leader Lando Norris by 14 points, Russell believes McLaren's performance is too strong for him to realistically challenge for the title.
Kamui Kobayashi, the head of Toyota Gazoo Racing, has indicated that the automaker's participation in the upcoming hydrogen class of the FIA World Endurance Championship is uncertain due to ongoing delays in establishing the necessary regulations. Although Toyota has expressed a commitment to hydrogen technology and has made strides in its development, the lack of finalized rules has left the company evaluating its options for future racing endeavors.
ODDITIES
Recent developments have revealed an attempt to influence the outcomes of the Gran Turismo World Series Manufacturers Cup, potentially impacting team qualifications for the upcoming live events and World Final. This situation arose following significant changes in the rankings, particularly affecting Renault and Lexus, amid allegations of players accessing each other's accounts to manipulate race results, a violation of the series' regulations.
Fanatec has introduced the CSL Elite Steering Wheel Porsche Vision GT, a replica inspired by the concept car developed for the Gran Turismo series. This wheel features a robust aluminum build, multiple programmable buttons, and a new microfiber material, making it a notable addition for sim racing enthusiasts.
The new Rolls-Royce chess set features intricately designed, magnetized pieces and concealed drawers, available in a variety of veneer and leather options. While the exact price remains undisclosed, it is anticipated to be in the mid five-figure range, reflecting the luxury craftsmanship associated with the brand.
Top Gear's legacy faced a significant turning point in December 2022 following host Freddie Flintoff's serious accident during filming, which resulted in severe injuries. Flintoff will share his experience and recovery journey for the first time in an upcoming documentary set to release on Disney+ on April 25, providing insights into the crash and its lasting effects on his life.
Crown Classics is offering a distinctive 1966 21-window Volkswagen Bus that has been modified to house an 8.3-liter V8 engine from a Cadillac, showcasing extensive alterations including a widened body and a custom frame. While it retains a stock appearance from the front, the rear reveals significant modifications, including dual exhausts and aftermarket features, with a price tag of $80,000 reflecting its unique build and the labor involved.
A 2024 Tesla Cybertruck has been severely damaged and is now up for auction after being vandalized in Los Angeles, leading to its classification as non-repairable by the insurance company. The vehicle, which suffered extensive interior and exterior destruction, including burns and stolen parts, is now deemed beyond restoration, with repair costs nearly equal to its pre-damage value.
In 1968, Buick achieved impressive sales figures, with the Riviera standing out as its priciest model, starting at $4,615 and offering numerous customization options. A barn-find example currently listed on eBay retains its original 430ci V8 engine but requires significant restoration work, with the owner asking for $6,500 and open to negotiations.
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