The Honda Prelude is set to return after a hiatus of more than two decades, this time as a Civic-based coupe with hybrid power. On paper, the recipe blends nostalgia with Honda’s latest electrified technology, but the reception has been mixed. Some welcome the idea of a hybrid sports coupe, while others are unconvinced by its e-CVT transmission and the fact that it borrows heavily from the Civic.

Adding to the debate, reports from Japan suggest that the new Prelude will carry a higher price than even the Civic Type R. That alone has turned heads, as the Prelude was once remembered as a budget-friendly alternative in Honda’s lineup.

One prospective buyer in Japan, who also happens to write for an automotive publication, Creative Trend, shared his journey through the purchase process, offering an inside look at how difficult it is to even get on the list.

Honda

To secure a slot for the Prelude’s first production run, buyers had to clear a series of pre-screening hurdles set by Honda dealerships. These criteria varied by region, but the theme was clear: reward long-time Honda customers and filter out speculators.

Buyers were required to demonstrate an established relationship with an authorized dealer, prove they had been members of Honda Total Care for at least a year, and confirm that they had no intention of reselling the car.

Some requirements went further, such as having purchased three or more Hondas in the past five years, subscribing to dealer-recommended maintenance packages, or participating in regular surveys. After that, dealerships held their own lotteries to determine who could actually place an order.

At one location, about 100 hopefuls were reduced to 20 finalists, competing for only 10 allocations. The Creative Trend writer in question passed the screenings and won his local draw, securing the right to buy one of the first cars.

Honda

The new Prelude will be officially announced in Japan on September 4, 2025, with orders opening the following day at 9:00 a.m. The price is set at ¥6,179,800 (about $41,726), placing it above the Civic Type R and even rivaling the Nissan Z and Toyota GR Supra. An online-exclusive Honda ON Limited Edition will also be available for ¥6,540,000, bundled with a dealer option pack and maintenance package.

Color options for the Prelude are limited, with Crystal Black Pearl and Flame Red being standard, and premium charges applying to Meteoroid Gray Metallic and Moonlight White Pearl. Fuel economy is quoted at 23.6 km/L under the WLTP cycle. Honda is limiting the initial run to just 2,000 units, with deliveries scheduled to begin in October 2025 and conclude by March 2026. A second production phase is expected to commence in fiscal 2026.

In the US, information about the Prelude's ordering process is unknown; however, we expect a less stringent process than in Japan. We expect to hear more soon.

Adam Lynton/Autoblog

The Japan Mobility Show, once known as the Tokyo Motor Show, has long been the stage for Japan's most important automotive debuts. The biennial event has seen the unveiling of important cars and icons. In recent times, Honda previewed the return of the Prelude with a sleek concept coupe in 2023, while Nissan surprised the industry with the Hyperforce Concept, widely seen as the strongest candidate to succeed the now-defunct R35 GT-R.

The 2025 edition is set to be another high-profile showcase. Lexus, which celebrates its 20th anniversary in Japan this year, will also take part. According to an interview with Lexus president Tsuyoshi Watanabe cited by the Asahi Shimbun and reported by Creative Trend, the company will make a "major announcement" at this October's show.

Nissan

No details have been confirmed, but speculation has centered on the possibility of a next-generation electric vehicle. Lexus previewed its future design language at Monterey Car Week with the Sports Concept, and the Japan Mobility Show could provide a platform for a production-ready version or another development of that idea.

However, we also need to point out that the timing coincides with several key transitions in the lineup. The IS series has already been discontinued, suggesting a potential successor. The LC coupe is effectively in its final run, following the Pinnacle edition.

There are also persistent rumors about the LFR, a high-performance model that would serve as a spiritual successor to the LFA. Another likely candidate is the next-generation ES, which is scheduled for a Japanese market launch in 2026 and may make its debut at the show.

Lexus

Moreover, Lexus's anniversary also provides clues since it has previously marked milestones with limited special editions, such as the F SPORT X Line series released for its 10th anniversary and the Structural Blue LC500 commemorating sales achievements. A 20th anniversary edition vehicle would fit this pattern, especially since no commemorative model was offered for the 15th anniversary or for reaching one million cumulative sales in Japan.

Meanwhile, Lexus continues to face challenges in its existing lineup in Japan. According to reports, shipping delays for the LC500 Convertible have exceeded seven months. The company's current emphasis on SUVs has drawn attention for reducing variety in the lineup, so a shift back toward sedans or coupes could be strategically important.

Whatever form the "major announcement" takes, it is expected to frame Lexus' strategy for the next decade and reinforce its position against European and American rivals. And as always, we'll be there to witness this first-hand.

Lexus

Tesla has lost $183 million more than it would’ve if it had accepted the initial $60 million settlement offer for a 2019 fatal crash involving one of the manufacturer’s Autopilot-engaged Model S vehicles. After Tesla declined the settlement proposal, offered on May 30, a jury awarded the estate of Naibel Benavides Leon, who was killed, and her seriously-injured boyfriend, Dillin Angulo, a combined $129 million in compensatory damages, along with $200 million in punitive damages. Tesla was held liable for $42.6 million of the compensatory damages and all of the punitive damages.

The rejected settlement proposal’s amount was disclosed in a plaintiff attorney filing this week in a Miami, Florida, federal court, where lawyers requested that Tesla pay the plaintiffs’ legal fees since May 30, according to Reuters. After declining the May 30 settlement offer, Tesla had countered with a lower settlement amount, which included a non-disclosure agreement, Electrek reports.

Getty

On Friday, Tesla’s lawyers filed a motion to toss the verdict or, alternatively, receive a new trial. Tesla attorneys argue that the verdict was excessive and that their software wasn’t responsible for the crash, according to The New York Times. The automaker’s attorneys claim that the victims shouldn’t have been allowed to present statements during the trial from Tesla CEO Elon Musk, which supported the plaintiffs’ lawyers’ claim that Musk exaggerated the software’s capabilities, resulting in driver inattentiveness.

Tesla attorneys also believe that the plaintiffs shouldn’t have been approved to share evidence that the manufacturer withheld data about the crash, describing the information as irrelevant. This data, presented to the jury last month, was discovered by a self-described hacker hired by the plaintiffs after they decoded the contents of a chip recovered from a Model S. Tesla subsequently stated that they had possessed the data on their servers the whole time, after initially claiming otherwise, The Washington Post reports. This data showed exactly what the Model S’s cameras detected before the crash. The hacker spoke to The Washington Post anonymously, but is known by his X handle, @greentheonly.

Getty

Tesla’s lawyers described the 2019 crash as: “A tragedy that was entirely the doing of a driver who was reckless in the extreme by ignoring or overriding every safety feature in his car,” The New York Times reports. “If the verdict is allowed to stand, it will chill innovation, harm road safety, and invite future juries to punish manufacturers who bring new safety features to market,” Tesla attorneys added. The 2019 crash involved a Tesla Model S engaged in Autopilot software blowing through a stop sign and hitting the victims’ parked Chevrolet Tahoe as they stood beside it. The driver had been reaching for his dropped phone on the floor while traveling through the intersection.

Tesla likely wishes it had a time machine after declining the initial $60 million settlement offer on May 30. After Tesla’s lower counteroffer fell through and the court ordered a $242.6 million settlement, the automaker and its lawyers are requesting that the court throw out the verdict or order a new trial. However, Tesla appears to be fighting an uphill battle in achieving its objectives. For example, the automaker's claim that the recovered Autopilot crash data is irrelevant seems perplexing, especially given the data’s specificity. Additionally, Tesla’s decision to deny having the data, only to later admit the opposite, was likely a key factor in forming the jury’s decision.

It may not be a true replacement for the TRX, but the Ram 1500 RHO is a strong alternative to the V6-powered Ford F-150 Raptor. Not only is it powerful and capable off-road, but we found the RHO to be a surprisingly comfortable and competent daily driver. But Ram is always looking to improve its pickups, and has just announced two new MagnaFlow exhaust options for the RHO. These exhausts allow the twin-turbocharged Hurricane V6 to sing more freely—and loudly—while answering the call from customers for the RHO to have “more attitude.”

“Our customers told us they want more attitude from the Ram 1500 RHO, and we’re here to give it to them,” said Tim Kuniskis, CEO, Ram brand. “Performance isn’t just about horsepower and torque, it’s about the full sensory experience. With our new MagnaFlow exhaust options, we’re handing drivers the volume knob and letting them crank it to 11.”

2026 Ram 1500 RHO with Direct Connection MagnaFlow Exhaust

Stellantis

The first exhaust option is the SPEQ Series Cat-Back Performance Exhaust, which will add $2,089 to the price of the 1500 RHO. This one delivers a throaty tone under acceleration but settles with a more balanced exhaust note during normal driving.

It includes dual five-inch black chrome tips, three-inch diameter mandrel-bent tubing, a cat-back design with full stainless-steel construction, and a MagnaFlow Tru-X crossover pipe. Finishing off this option are dual mufflers, valve-integrated mid pipes, and an NDT mid-pipe chamber.

For those worried about drone, the setup makes use of MagnaFlow’s No Drone Technology with passive noise cancellation, so the truck is still refined enough when you want it to be.

The xMOD Cat-Back Performance Exhaust takes things to another level and starts at $3,099. It gets most of the goodies found in the SPEQ Series exhaust, but is a more customizable system, as owners can choose from six exhaust notes. These gradually increase the intensity and volume, made possible by three swappable modules.

There are two swappable mid-pipe modules: Either standard valve-integrated pipes or valve delete pipes. The xMOD system also gets race-bred v-band clamps. Both exhaust systems come with a two-year warranty.

We found the high-output six-cylinder engine in the RHO to deliver brilliant performance once it’s spooled up, but noted that it lacked the absorbing exhaust note of the older, V8-powered TRX. These exhaust mods still can’t match the natural tone of the TRX, but they add even more excitement to the RHO.

The current Ram 1500 first launched back in 2018, so it’s no longer the newest truck in town. But Ram continues to optimize the lineup based on customer feedback, which is exactly why the 540-hp RHO has these sporty exhaust options.

Earlier this year, Ram announced the comeback of the Hemi V8-powered 1500 pickup, as customers were unhappy that the engine choice had been dropped. There was an overwhelmingly positive reception to this news, and the first Hemi-powered pickups for 2026 are now shipping to dealerships around the country.

The V8-powered TRX is also set to make a comeback later this year or early next year, which will once again give Ram an answer to the mighty Ford F-150 Raptor R. Until then, at least there’s a more aggressive-sounding RHO to keep us entertained.

The new exhaust options are now available via the Mopar eStore or local dealers.

Mercedes-Benz has had a tough time with its range of electric vehicles lately, which are failing to resonate with the company’s customer base. Some of that is due to a slowing demand for EVs, while some of it is because people just don’t find the brand’s EQ models to be as appealing with their alien-like designs.

Earlier this month, we reported on the news that Mercedes is temporarily suspended new orders of several EVs. That group included the mid-size EQE Sedan and EQE SUV, and now we’ve learned that these slow-selling EVs will go out of production entirely next year.

Mercedes-Benz

While the BMW 5 Series and its electric counterpart, the i5, share similar driving characteristics and near-identical designs, the same could not be said of the EQE in relation to the excellent new E-Class. Not many warmed to the EQE’s molten styling and uninteresting driving dynamics.

Mercedes sold only 2,300 EQEs in the first half of 2025, a massive 74.5% year-on-year decline. BMW i5 sales also declined, but by a less damaging 30%—3,333 i5 sedans were sold over the same period.

As Mercedes revises its EV plans, Autocar reports that the EQE sedan and SUV will go out of production next year, as the brand looks to eradicate some overlap in its lineup.

Mercedes-Benz

Electric versions of the C-Class and GLC will allegedly serve as indirect replacements for the EQE/EQE SUV. Indirect, because the C-Class/GLC are traditionally compact models, whereas the E-badged Mercs fall into the mid-size category. However, Mercedes recently pulled off a similar trick by replacing both the C-Class and E-Class Coupes with one model, the CLE.

The C-Class and GLC EQ models will be based on the company’s new 800V MB.EA-M platform, which should allow for better packaging. A planned facelift for the EQE models will seemingly no longer happen; they were meant to receive new 800V electric architecture and upgraded electric motors.

Mercedes hasn’t officially confirmed that the EQE will go out of production in 2026, but neither did it deny it. According to a spokesperson, the company has “a policy of not commenting on speculation surrounding its current and future models.”

Mercedes is also set to revise its naming structure for EVs. For instance, the new plan is for ICE and electric large sedans sharing the S-Class name, instead of separate S-Class and EQS models. This strategy is likely to filter down to lower models, too, given the continued demand for more conventionally-styled Mercs.

Ultimately, we'll look back at the EQE as a rare misstep in the German marque's history. It was a model that was supposed to capitalize on the reputation of the E-Class, but for a new audience that could appreciate its high-tech, futuristic design. But it seems that Merc fans still want their cars to look and feel like a traditional Mercedes, regardless of what powers it.

The ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and Europe over automobile tariffs continues to create uncertainty for vehicle manufacturers. Speaking to Bloomberg, Mercedes-Benz has urged the Trump administration and the European Union to strike a trade deal and reduce tariffs on directly imported vehicles. Currently, European automakers face a steep 27.5% tariff, though according to Reuters, the U.S. agreed on July 27th to reduce this to 15% after the EU cut import duties on American goods.

Mercedes-Benz

In a Bloomberg interview, Mercedes-Benz Group AG Chief Technology Officer Markus Schäfer warned that without a permanent resolution, automakers risk further price increases or production shifts, potentially affecting European jobs and industrial output. "The situation has a serious impact," Schäfer said. "We hope that both parties find a resolution over the coming weeks. It's seriously needed."

Mercedes-Benz faced significant headwinds in the second quarter of 2025 beyond typical challenges from slowing global demand. The German luxury manufacturer reported worldwide sales of 453,700 vehicles, down 9% year-over-year. In the U.S., its second-largest market, the decline was steeper at 12%.

Mercedes-Benz

The tariff dispute alone cost Mercedes-Benz $420 million in quarterly earnings, according to the company. The additional duties have forced higher sticker prices while squeezing profit margins—a particular challenge as competitors like BMW benefit from local manufacturing advantages.

Mercedes-Benz joins other automakers caught between Trump tariffs and China's export restrictions on rare earth materials. Schäfer acknowledged challenges from Beijing's restrictions on minerals essential for electric motors and advanced components. China, the world's leading processor of these materials, has recently intensified export controls.

"With the help of our Chinese suppliers, we have managed to avoid disruptions thanks to buffer stocks and alternative suppliers," he said, "but we cannot guarantee this forever."

Mercedes-Benz

The EU has begun eliminating duties on U.S. industrial goods while granting "preferential market access" to products including seafood and agricultural materials. In return, the U.S. will reduce EU auto tariffs from 27.5% to 15%.

In February 2025, President Trump declared that the European Union was "formed to screw the United States," escalating his rhetoric against the 27-nation bloc. He linked the proposed trade measures to addressing the U.S. goods trade deficit with the EU, which reached $235 billion in 2024 according to U.S. Census Bureau data.

The new Ford Mustang GTD is so wide that it nearly crossed into commercial-truck territory. According to federal rules, vehicles that exceed a certain width—like the Ford Bronco Raptor or Ram TRX—are required to wear amber safety lights similar to those on heavy-duty trucks. These lights aren’t just functional, they’ve become something of a style trend, inspiring everything from copycat SUV builds to “overland” 4Runners with decorative marker lights.

The GTD, however, avoids this fate thanks to a legal loophole that keeps it just shy of the requirement. Speaking to The Drive, Mustang GTD Design Manager Anthony Colard explained that Ford’s fastest Mustang didn’t quite need the lights, even if it came close.

FMVSS 108 says larger vehicles (measuring 80 inches or wider) have to have these lights to, ironically, remain more visible on the road. If you've seen a Bronco Raptor on the road or a Ram TRX, you'll already know how hard they are to miss. Coming in at 81.8 inches in width, the Mustang GTD should have had to line up for a set of three amber lights in the middle and one on each side.

Instead, the design team decided they didn't want to get in on the hot new overlanding trend (at least not with this Mustang) and sought out a way around FMVSS 108. Colard says the lamps are only required because vehicles fitting 108 are considered "dual-purpose" vehicles when you homologate (make legal for road use) them. Vehicles in this category can be bought by companies and registered and used as work trucks. However, the GTD isn't considered a dual-purpose vehicle, and therefore isn't subject to FMVSS 108.

Ford

The Drive asked what would happen if, for example, you own a race track and suddenly that GTD is now a work vehicle, maybe because you use it to give rides to tourists. You know, for... "tax" purposes. Just like that Montana LLC. While you could have your Montana racetrack LLC buy a GTD and both own and register the vehicle, Colard says it's still not classified as a "work vehicle." "Any vehicle you can put a sticker on saying ‘not for hire,’ then enters that category (referring to dual-purpose vehicles) where you need to have the lights," Colard said.

Forget glass showrooms in Dubai or Beverly Hills. The most jaw-dropping Lamborghini dealership you’ll see this year fits on a shelf. A YouTube collector has lined up dozens of 1/18 scale die-cast Lamborghinis in glass cases, creating a miniature dealership where Aventadors and Urus' shine under perfect lighting — and, for once, you don’t need a hedge fund to afford them.

What makes the collection compelling is the way it’s presented. The cars aren’t stacked in dusty boxes. They’re arranged like a real dealer floor: nose-to-nose Aventadors Urus' and Huracáns are carefully displayed. It feels more curated than many actual dealerships.

For collectors, this is the thrill — you can park Lamborghinis from every era together in one space, something even Sant’Agata itself can’t offer. Want to place a radical Gallardo Concept S alongside a Urus Performante? Easy. Try doing that with the real cars, and you’d be waiting for a concours invitation.

Of course, “affordable” is relative. Budget models from Maisto can be had for $30–$70, but high-end die-casts from AutoArt or Kyosho can push $200–$300 each. That’s still a fraction of what a real Lamborghini commands. For context, a 2023 Lamborghini Urus Performante currently listed with under 20,000 miles is asking well into six figures.

Scale collectors know they’ll never match the feeling of 641 hp and a twin-turbo V8, but they also know the shelf won’t demand insurance, servicing, or premium fuel. It’s ownership without the bankruptcy.

Die-cast collecting is often dismissed as kids playing with cars, but this kind of display proves it’s closer to curation. These models preserve Lamborghini history in miniature: the wedge-era Countach, the V12 Aventador, even limited-runs now cemented as part of the brand’s legacy. Lamborghini itself recognizes that history, recently donating the first Aventador delivered to the U.S. to the Petersen Museum.

For enthusiasts who can’t get near the Petersen, building a scaled-down dealership at home is the next best thing.

A posh Lamborghini dealership where “affordable” isn’t a cruel joke does exist — in 1/18 scale. For the price of a set of tires on a Huracán, you can assemble a lineup that spans Sant’Agata’s greatest hits, without ever leaving your living room.

It’s proof that passion doesn’t always require millions. Sometimes it just requires patience, a steady hand with a microfiber cloth, and for some people, a bit too much money spent on the wrong type of car.

For decades, the Tokyo Motor Show – now rebranded as the Japan Mobility Show – has served as the proving ground for Japanese automakers to showcase their most ambitious work. It has been the birthplace of many halo cars, some of which went on to define entire segments. The now-retired Nissan GT-R R35, for example, first appeared here as a concept before becoming a production legend, also showcased at the same event six years later.

For brands like Honda, it remains the ideal venue to set the tone for the next generation of vehicles, blending technological innovation with cultural impact. Ahead of the 2025 edition, Honda has teased its upcoming booth, offering a glimpse of what's to come. The company confirmed that a mix of automobiles, motorcycles, aircraft, and marine products will be on display.

Still, the imagery hints at something with more traditional enthusiast appeal – cars that appear to be designed for fun.

Honda

With Honda set to unveil the production Prelude in Japan this September, its teaser includes a silhouette that looks unmistakably coupe-like, which could mean that another coupe (or at least a version of the Prelude) is in the works.

The Prelude concept has been shown at previous Japanese auto shows (we first saw the show car in the metal at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show), but the timing now suggests Honda is ready to up the ante for the road-ready version.

Beyond the Prelude itself, there is the possibility of Honda adding flair to the lineup through its in-house customization arms. We're not particularly optimistic about the arrival of a Prelude Type R, but a sportier take on the returning nameplate – perhaps refined by Mugen or Modulo – would fit the show's reputation for debuting aspirational models.

While Honda has not confirmed any such variant, the stage is perfectly set for an appearance. Coupled with the larger EV initiatives already underway, it appears the automaker aims to strike a balance between forward-looking technology and a nod to its heritage of building cars that enthusiasts can get behind.

Honda

Of course, Honda's booth is not only about coupes and sports-oriented models. After their Las Vegas debut, the company is introducing two key EV prototypes under the new Honda 0 Series banner: the 0 Saloon, a flagship sedan based on a dedicated EV platform, and the 0 SUV, which prioritizes spaciousness and visibility while maintaining a low weight. America will be missing out on one of the 0 SUVs, but Japan is more fortunate on that end.

Motorcycles will also play a role, with the Rebel 1100 S Edition and the electric commuter CUV e:, making appearances. Beyond land vehicles, visitors can expect to step inside a full-scale mockup of the HondaJet Elite II business jet and see the BF350 outboard motor, the brand's most powerful marine engine.

Honda will also participate in the show's thematic programs, which include motorsport heritage displays, startup showcases, and youth-oriented activities. The complete list of exhibits will be revealed toward the end of September. But for now, the coupe-shaped teaser suggests that Honda wants to make this year's Japan Mobility Show as much about excitement as it is about technology.

Honda

European carmakers are pushing back against the EU’s ambitious plan for a 100% reduction in car CO₂ emissions by 2035, saying the timeline may be more political dream than practical reality. In a direct appeal, industry leaders warned that the proposed 2035 zero-emission ban risks overestimating how quickly Europe can pivot to electric vehicles. Their argument is simple: while the future is undoubtedly electric, today’s production challenges and rising costs, charging infrastructure gaps, and the threat of cheaper Chinese EVs make the path to zero emissions much steeper than policymakers suggest.

Carmakers argue they are being asked to transform with their “hands tied behind their backs.” Europe’s EV supply chain still leans heavily on imported batteries, local manufacturing remains expensive, and the charging network is far from ready for mass adoption. With trade tariffs also threatening costs, the race to meet the 2030 and 2035 CO₂ targets looks increasingly uphill.

Electric vehicle adoption rates in the EU highlight the issue at hand. Just 15% of new cars sold in the EU are electric, while vans (a sizeable market) lag at under 10%. At this pace, EU carmakers say the 2035 zero-emissions target is simply out of reach. This raises serious concerns, not only for industry but also for consumers waiting for affordable EVs.

European carmakers are lobbying for a more tech-neutral approach, instead of the current zero-emissions policy. Alongside pushing EVs to lead the charge, they want to keep the door open for plug-in hybrids, hydrogen power, e-fuels, and efficient internal combustion models. Keep in mind European regulators have already softened slightly. The 2025 CO₂ targets were tweaked to include a three-year averaging rule for compliance up to 2027 to give the industry more breathing space.

Honda

For car buyers, the implications are clear. If the shift toward EVs slows, expect fewer models, limited stock, and higher car prices in the short term. On the other hand, a broader technology mix could mean more value-for-money hybrids and efficient internal combustion cars remain available. 

If the carmakers get what they want, the consumer should be the ultimate winner with greater choice. Changes in policy in the EU will likely have a rollover effect on the US market, already in turmoil from Trump's EPA plans. The real question is: will this end up giving buyers more clean and affordable options, or simply delay the inevitable shift to a zero-emission future?