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This Six-Wheeled Minivan is the Next Lexus LS
Andrew Evans
October 13, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Cadillac wins Petit Le Mans, as Porsche takes IMSA crown
Ferrari 456GT owned by The Who founder for sale
Daihatsu Midget revival, with electric power
LEGO Batmobiles offer game perks
Haas unveils special US GP livery
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Lexus is planning to transform its flagship LS model, moving away from the traditional luxury sedan format to a six-wheeled MPV, as revealed in initial images ahead of its debut at the Tokyo motor show. Toyota chairman Akio Toyoda emphasized the shift in consumer preferences towards spacious interiors, indicating that the new design aims to enhance comfort while addressing the challenges associated with this innovative configuration.
Daihatsu has unveiled the Midget X concept at the Japan Mobility Show, reimagining its classic three-wheeled vehicle as a compact electric light commercial vehicle. This modern iteration features a unique cabin design with a central driving position and aims to cater to diverse lifestyles while honoring its historical roots.
BMW and Audi are finally preparing to enter the luxury off-road SUV market, a space long dominated by Mercedes' G-Class and Land Rover's Defender. Both manufacturers are developing new models, with BMW's G74 anticipated for 2029 and Audi hinting at a rugged SUV distinct from its current offerings, aiming to attract buyers from established competitors.
Kia's Tasman, the brand's inaugural utility vehicle, has struggled to meet its initial sales goals in Australia, with fewer than 2,500 units sold since its launch. In response to disappointing demand, behind competitors like the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger, the company has implemented price reductions and added incentives, while expressing hope that a successful Tasman could pave the way for a related SUV model in the future.
Toyota is venturing into a more dynamic realm with its Century brand by introducing a two-door coupe concept at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show. This model features an elevated ride height and sliding doors, diverging from traditional luxury coupe designs, and hints at the brand's ambition to expand its exclusive offerings.
Recent over-the-air updates to Jeep's infotainment system have led to some models, particularly the Wrangler 4Xe, experiencing significant operational issues, including entering a limp mode. While the exact purpose of the update remains unclear, numerous owners have reported difficulties with their vehicles, prompting warnings against proceeding with the update until further guidance is provided.
Lucid Motors is facing criticism from lessees who have received unexpected charges for minor damages after returning their vehicles, with some bills reaching as high as $2,400 for superficial scratches. Frustrated customers have begun filing complaints with regulatory bodies, highlighting inconsistencies in the company's lease return process and raising concerns about the fairness of damage assessments.
A Kia EV6 owner has enhanced their vehicle's audio performance by reconfiguring the power connections of the subwoofer located in the trunk, addressing a sound quality issue linked to the speaker being out of phase. While Kia may consider investigating this oversight, affected owners are currently left to implement their own solutions.
Volvo is reevaluating its decision to implement a card-based entry system in its EX30 and EX90 models due to negative feedback from customers. The current reliance on a phone-as-key option that only accommodates iPhone users has left Android owners excluded, highlighting a disconnect between the company’s digital strategy and the actual preferences of its customer base.
MOTORSPORT
The Action Express Racing team, featuring drivers Jack Aitken, Earl Bamber, and Frederik Vesti, secured a second consecutive victory at the Petit Le Mans, finishing ahead of the second-placed Aston Martin Valkyrie. Porsche's Matt Campbell and Mathieu Jaminet clinched the 2025 IMSA championship title after taking third place with Laurens Vanthoor.
Haas has introduced a distinctive livery for the United States Grand Prix, celebrating its home race at the Circuit of the Americas. This design follows the team's tradition of unique liveries for the Austin event and reflects its recent special editions at other races, including tributes to Japanese cherry blossoms and their 200th grand prix in Canada.
This weekend's United States Grand Prix is likely to prompt the FIA to issue another heat advisory for drivers, as forecasts predict unusually high temperatures in Austin. Following a similar warning during the Singapore GP due to excessive heat, competitors may have to choose between using cooling vests or adjusting their car's weight to cope with the challenging conditions.
As Cadillac prepares to enter Formula 1 in 2026, its team of engineers is conducting extensive race simulations from locations in North Carolina and the UK, despite not yet having a physical car to test. This strategic approach aims to ensure that the team is well-prepared for its debut in Melbourne, leveraging the expertise of its members and advanced simulation technology to refine operations and communication.
Liam Lawson acknowledged the challenges he faced in achieving consistent performance with Racing Bulls earlier in the Formula 1 season, particularly after his drop from Red Bull. However he has improved his competitiveness more recently, with the seats at Racing Bulls yet to be decided for 2026 and several drivers vying for the positions.
Mercedes is approaching the final six races of the F1 season with caution, despite George Russell's impressive victory in Singapore, which marked his fifth career win. Trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin highlighted the team's strengths on low-speed circuits while acknowledging challenges ahead, particularly in high-speed cornering, as it prepares for the upcoming races in the United States and beyond.
Lewis Hamilton has acknowledged some encouraging aspects despite Ferrari's struggles this season. He emphasized the team's commitment to learning from their experiences, suggesting that the upcoming regulatory changes could provide a chance for Ferrari to enhance performance and competitiveness.
Lance Stroll discussed his approach to managing the intense scrutiny that accompanies his role in Formula 1, emphasizing the importance of surrounding himself with supportive individuals. Despite facing significant criticism regarding his position in the sport, he believes that maintaining focus on trusted opinions helps him navigate the ups and downs of racing.
Susie Wolff has indicated that her legal proceedings against the FIA are still in progress, following the organization's 2023 announcement regarding a potential conflict of interest related to her husband, Toto Wolff, in his role as Mercedes team principal. Although the initial investigation concluded swiftly, Wolff believes it has already caused significant harm to her reputation, prompting her to pursue a defamation claim against the FIA.
CURIOSITIES
The recent New York Comic Con saw the introduction of four new LEGO sets celebrating 20 years of Batman-themed toys, coinciding with the upcoming video game release. Among these sets are three Batmobiles from various films and a detailed replica of Batman's logo, each accompanied by exclusive digital content for the game LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, which is set to launch next year.
A unique Ferrari 456 GT, originally owned by renowned musician Pete Townshend, is currently available for sale, boasting a manual transmission and a sophisticated Gunmetal finish. With a price tag of £60,000, this vehicle not only stands out for its celebrity connection but also represents a rare opportunity to acquire a classic Ferrari at a price below its original list value.
McLaren cars are often in the conversation for more affordable second-hand supercars, with earlier models particularly hit by depreciation and representing a bargain on the used car market. A used 12C model, part the first line produced by the brand, is available through a classified listing for under £60,000, with relatively few miles at 40,000 on the clocks, though it will likely still be expensive to run especially if any issues are revealed at inspection.
A helicopter crash during the 'Cars N’ Copters On The Coast' event in Huntington Beach resulted in injuries to the pilot, passenger, and bystanders, though all reportedly survived. The incident, attributed to a tail rotor failure, occurred near a crowd of spectators, underscoring the risks involved in such gatherings.
A new legislative proposal in California aims to reinstate red-light cameras, shifting the responsibility for fines from drivers to vehicle owners, while penalties for the offense are also reduced from previous levels. If enacted, this law could lead to the revival of red-light enforcement in Sacramento and other cities, with funds generated directed toward local safety enhancements.
After only recently going on sale in showrooms, used examples of the Lamborghini Revuelto are beginning to show up with crash damage, as highlighted by an auction listing for one such car at a salvage auction that’s still waiting for its title. The car, with only 233 miles on the odometer, has some damage on the left side, including to the wheels, as well as an airbag deployment, but is expected to be operational.
A Corvette owner has decided to part with a 1972 car after purchasing it from a neighbor and performing a sympathetic restoration to keep its original condition, with the car previously sitting unused for nearly three decades from new. This vehicle features a 350ci engine and an unusual color, with a clean title and various original documents included in the sale, currently listed for $50,000 on eBay.
JLR Brooklyn accepted a 2023 Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spider as a trade-in, only for its subsequent owner to discover that the odometer had been manipulated, showing a mere 2,100km instead of the actual 23,365km. Following this revelation, the dealership has initiated legal action against the previous owner for alleged fraud and violations of the Federal Odometer Act, as the true mileage significantly diminishes the vehicle's value.
A unique IWC Schaffhausen Big Pilot's Watch Shock Absorber XPL, previously worn by Toto Wolff during the Singapore Grand Prix, will be auctioned by Bonhams to benefit Laureus Sport For Good. The auction will run from October 15 to October 25, culminating at the Laureus Charity Night in Zurich, with all proceeds directed towards supporting social sports initiatives for children in Switzerland.
That's all for today! We would love to hear your feedback, so just reply to this message to let us know what you thought about this issue. See you next time!