Manual Transmission's Demise: Why the 7th-Gen Dodge Charger Remains Automatic-Only
Furthermore, stringent modern crash safety standards played a significant role. The placement of the transmission and associated components within the chassis impacts crash performance. Designing a manual transmission system that met these increasingly rigorous standards, while maintaining acceptable vehicle weight and cost-effectiveness, presented a formidable challenge. Ultimately, the cost and complexity of engineering a compliant manual transmission system for the Charger's platform outweighed the potential benefits of offering this option to a shrinking segment of buyers. In short, the muscle car's modern iteration sacrificed the stick shift at the altar of cost and safety regulations.
Motospot | 28 Jun 2025
Rare 1973 Citroën DS23 Pallas IE 5-Speed Manual Surfaces in US
A rare and highly sought-after 1973 Citroën DS23 Pallas IE with a five-speed manual transmission has recently emerged on the US market. This French-market sedan, originally imported from the United Kingdom in July 2023, represents a significant find for Citroën enthusiasts. The car boasts the desirable 2.3-liter inline-four engine, a fuel-injected variant offering improved performance over its carbureted counterparts. The five-speed manual gearbox is a particularly rare addition to this model, enhancing both driving experience and fuel economy (relatively speaking, for a car of its era). The "Pallas" designation signifies the top-of-the-line trim level, suggesting a luxurious interior and a comprehensive array of features for its time, likely including comfort-oriented suspension and advanced (for the era) technology. While specifics regarding the car's condition and mileage are unavailable, its recent importation and acquisition suggest a promising opportunity for collectors and aficionados of classic French automobiles. The unique combination of engine, transmission, and trim level makes this DS23 Pallas a highly collectible and desirable piece of automotive history.
Motospot | 28 Jun 2025
Skoda Electrifies the Octavia: EV Version Coming Alongside Petrol and Diesel
Skoda is set to electrify its popular Octavia family car, with an all-electric variant joining the existing petrol and diesel engine options. While specifics remain under wraps, the manufacturer has confirmed that a concept version of the electric Octavia will be unveiled later this year, giving us a first glimpse of the production model's design and features. This move positions Skoda strategically within the growing electric vehicle market, offering consumers a choice between established combustion engines and a zero-emission alternative within its best-selling range. Expect the electric Octavia to leverage the Volkswagen Group's MEB platform, a common architecture used across several EV models, potentially offering a competitive range and fast-charging capabilities. Further details regarding battery capacity, power output, and pricing are anticipated closer to the production launch. The arrival of the electric Octavia signals Skoda's continued commitment to electrification, broadening its appeal to environmentally conscious buyers while maintaining its presence in the traditional combustion engine market.
Motospot | 25 Jun 2025
Europe's Auto Industry Seeks a Savior Amidst Rising Chinese Competition
The European automotive industry is facing a pivotal moment. Following the unexpected departure of Luca de Meo from Renault, a void in leadership has been exposed, leaving many to question who will spearhead the continent's response to the rapidly growing challenge from Chinese automakers. De Meo's departure, while attributed to internal factors, highlights a broader concern: the need for a visionary leader capable of navigating the complex landscape of electrification, technological innovation, and increasingly aggressive competition from China.
Chinese manufacturers are rapidly gaining market share globally, leveraging advanced technology, competitive pricing, and aggressive expansion strategies. European brands, known for their premium positioning and heritage, risk being outmaneuvered unless a strong, unified front is established. This requires not just technological advancements but also a strategic overhaul encompassing supply chains, marketing, and potentially even industry consolidation.
The search for a new leader is not merely about finding a replacement for De Meo; it's about identifying someone with the vision and decisiveness to guide the European auto industry through this critical period. The next few years will be crucial in determining whether Europe can maintain its position as a global automotive powerhouse, or if it will cede ground to its increasingly formidable Chinese competitors. The industry needs a bold leader, not just a manager, to ensure its future.
Motospot | 25 Jun 2025
MV Agusta's $80,000 Superveloce 1000 Ago: 83 Units of Legend, a Six-Month Wait
MV Agusta has unleashed a collector's dream: the Superveloce 1000 Ago. This limited-edition motorcycle, celebrating Giacomo Agostini's 83rd birthday, is restricted to a mere 83 units globally. Commanding a price tag of $80,000, the Ago is more than just a motorcycle; it's a piece of living automotive history. The hefty price reflects not only the exclusivity but also the expected top-tier performance and bespoke features one would anticipate from such a prestigious machine. While specific details on performance enhancements haven't been fully released, expect a refined version of the already potent Superveloce 1000 platform, potentially featuring upgraded components and a unique livery commemorating Agostini's legendary racing career. The six-month wait speaks volumes about the demand and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in producing each unit. For discerning collectors and serious motorcycle enthusiasts with deep pockets, the wait and the cost are likely seen as a worthwhile investment in a true piece of motorcycling artistry.
Motospot | 25 Jun 2025
Volkswagen ID.4 to Undergo Radical Transformation for 2026 Model Year
An upcoming mid-life update will be equivalent to a new generation, according to the company
