The Hilton Head Island Race is the perfect end to the event
This year marks the 22nd edition of the Hilton Head Island Elegance and Automobile Festival. I have had the pleasure of attending and serving as a judge in Hilton Head for the past 14 years, and during that time I have seen the show grow from a great local/regional event to something even more exciting. This is new race chairman Chris Brewer's first year officially at the helm of the event, and he has elevated the event to one of the top five races in the country this year. Also somehow able to capture the friendly "low country" feel that has been a staple since the beginning. One of the winners of the Grand Motoring Festival Photo Contest photographed by Deremer Studios, LLC The four-day event kicked off with the Grand Motoring Film Festival, where more than 30 films, both feature and short, competed to win in their respective categories. My favorite movie this week is a movie about BMW's…
2024 SEMA show includes Mopar-inspired Toyota
what will fall off Challenge your paradigm more? Electric Plymouth GTX? Or a Teutonic-based Japanese car that pays homage to Richard Petty? You may be familiar with the Toyota GR Supra, a revival sports car based on (and more popular than) the BMW Z4. It's been on the market for five years and comes with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 3-liter turbocharged V6. From the start, an eight-speed automatic was the only transmission available, but a six-speed manual finally appears in 2023. By 2025, the turbocharged four-cylinder engine will be discontinued. Photo courtesy of Elana Scherr/Car and Driver At the SEMA Show, Toyota unveiled a series of concepts to satisfy the needs of car fans visiting the Las Vegas event. What is particularly noteworthy is that super bird The Tribute is a GR Supra concept car designed to honor The King (aka Richard Petty) and the 1970 Road Runner Superbird, the car that brought him back to Plymouth…
Cost per attendee
Costs per attendee are expected to rise next year even as growth in aviation and hotels begins to stabilize, according to a new GBTA report. The cost per person to host a meeting or event actually fell by 3% last year, is expected to increase by 4.3% this year, and is expected to increase by another 4.5% in 2025. The average daily cost per attendee will grow from $162 this year to $169 in 2025, according to the recently released 2025 Global Business Travel Forecast from business travel and meetings company CWT and the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA). Despite rising food and hotel room costs, cost per attendee will increase from 2022 to 2023 as meeting and event organizers shift to holding smaller, more business-focused meetings at more affordable venues and destinations Year-on-year decline. Through 2024 and looking forward to 2025, these costs are expected to rise as the business travel industry continues to recover, increased demand for larger…
Toyota unveils 4Runner TRD Surf concept car at SEMA 2024
Toyota 4Runner It's all-new for 2025, but one of the ones on display at the 2024 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show in Las Vegas has been transformed into a 1980s throwback called the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept. Marty McFly's black pickup truck from "Back to the Future" wasn't the only popular Toyota vehicle from the '80s. At the time, the 4Runner was a common sight on Southern California beaches, according to the automaker. Marty Schwerter, chief manufacturer and director of operations at Toyota's Motorsports Technical Center, saw this original model in the upcoming 4Runner. "The 2025 4Runner's rugged looks and powerful 4-cylinder engine remind me of the original. I knew it had the potential to be the ultimate beach cruiser. We wanted to create something that resonates today while paying homage to the past." Schwedt and his team went beyond colors and graphics. To really tie the 4Runner TRD Surf Concept to its ancestors, they widened the 2025 4Runner…
Toyota Tacoma transmission issues spark lawsuit
The class-action lawsuit was filed days after Toyota agreed to replace the 2024 Toyota Tacoma transmission for free. November 1, 2024 — A Toyota Tacoma transmission class action lawsuit has been filed four days after Toyota announced it would replace the transmission and torque converter on 2024 models for free. The lawsuit covers 2024 or newer Toyota Tacoma trucks equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission or an 8-speed automatic hybrid transmission. According to the class action lawsuit, the Toyota Tacoma transmission failed to shift, engaged violently, went into limp mode, and suffered transmission damage that caused the Tacoma's transmission failure. The class action lawsuit was filed days after Toyota announced free replacement of the Toyota Tacoma T-SB-0076-24 automatic transmission and torque converter. But the truck owner who filed the lawsuit claimed there was no point in replacing the transmission because the replacement transmission was just as defective as the original transmission. California plaintiff Abdul Syed, who owns a 2024 Toyota…
Port strike suspended until January 15, 2024…
"Since October 3RDthe ILA port strike has been suspended and a tentative agreement on wages has been reached between ILA and USMX. The main contract has been extended to January 15, 2025. READ ALSO: Protracted port strike narrowly avoided for now From now until January, the two sides will return to the negotiating table to continue negotiations. Automation remains a key sticking point. At Magaya, as a global provider of logistics and supply chain automation software, we understand the value of automation to the global shipping industry and know that the benefits outweigh the concerns for all parties involved in the movement of goods. It’s certainly natural for workers to worry about the impact of automation on their jobs. No one wants to see hard-working Americans face job uncertainty due to technological advances. However, we know that no one will ever go back to shipping goods in barrels, boxes and sacks without containers and technology will be put back in…
2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 SE RWD
There are certain vehicles On the road, things are impressive simply because they exist. The awkwardly shaped stainless steel Tesla Cybertruck is one of them. It was released about a year ago, and it's surprising how many people agreed with putting something so visually radical into production. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is another similar vehicle. It's launched as an all-electric sedan (after other companies ditched the body style) with brave, all-powerful styling. Hyundai could have erred on the side of caution and launched another crossover in a crowded segment, but they took a chance and released something unusual. Whether Hyundai intends to do so or not, they have also largely standardized on electric vehicles. Pricing and trim levelsGiven that the Ioniq 6 was launched as a 2023 model, there are no major changes for the 2024 version. The model range starts at $37,500 and includes the SE standard range with a range of 240 miles on a full charge, SE,…
Search for Bigfoot in the 2024 Ford Bronco Sasquatch Searcher
U2 didn’t write "I still haven't found what I'm looking for" about the search for Sasquatch (aka Bigfoot), but the title does fit. People have been searching for the giant, furry, human-like creatures for decades. There is even a scientific research group called the Bigfoot Field Research Group that has been exploring its mystery since 1995. When Ford finally launched the all-new 2020 Bronco, it used the Sasquatch name to represent an off-road-focused model. pack. Now, it's taking another big step forward by launching a sweepstakes offering a customized 2024 Bronco Sasquatch Searcher as the grand prize, which the winner can use to hunt down the behemoth. Ford started with the two-door Bronco Badlands Sasquatch and then strategically added equipment to help drivers complete tasks more easily. The body is wrapped in tree camouflage to help Sasquatch seekers blend into their surroundings. Auxiliary pod lights and light bars on the roof illuminate Bigfoot; front- and rear-mounted dash cams capture footage…
2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
Last decadeI've had the privilege of driving hundreds of different media vehicles. Most of them have been positive experiences. Several have stood out in terms of exterior styling, interior amenities, acceleration, sportiness, or a combination of those traits. Some have changed my life, like the first Jeep I ever drove off-road. Only one has made me an evangelist: the Mazda MX-5 Miata. If you haven't experienced Mazda's iconic roadster, I'll tell you what I would tell my younger self: drive one. And now's a great time to do it, because it's been updated for the 2024 model year. The current fourth-generation Miata was introduced as a 2016 model, weighing less than the outgoing model (NC), with a new design that elegantly balances tension and curvature, and a more fuel-efficient Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter I4 engine. In 2017, the Retractable Fastback (RF) model joined the lineup. The 2019 model adds 26 horsepower and 3 pound-feet of torque. Mazda has equipped the 2022 Miata…
Software tweak boosts power for Ford Ranger and Bronco Raptors
It took several yearsbut Ford is beginning to expand its high-performance off-road Raptor lineup, which now includes the Ranger and Bronco. Like their F-150 Raptor brothers, they offer more power to help them crawl over rocks and fly over dunes. For those who want to make their 2024 Ranger Raptor or 2022-2024 Bronco Raptor even more ferocious, Ford Performance accessories have a new software calibration. In addition to improved throttle response and optimized shifting, the upgrades significantly increase the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6's horsepower and torque. Ranger Raptor owners will see a 12 percent jump in horsepower from 405 to 455 hp, and a 25 percent increase in torque from 430 to 536 lb-ft. The Bronco Raptor's factory numbers are higher at 418 hp and 440 lb-ft, but the software revisions will bring it to the same peaks as the Ranger Raptor. The software calibration can be purchased online (click here for Ranger Raptor and here for Bronco Raptor) for $825,…
2024 Genesis G70 3.3T RWD Sport Prestige
Fill in as many gaps as possible In an effort to blend existing vehicles as closely as possible, automakers have developed models that incorporate elements that have never been blended before. We've become accustomed to seeing "four-door coupes" such as the Mercedes-Benz CLS, sedan/hatchback hybrids such as the Toyota Crown, and SUVs with supercar power and fast rooflines that give them a more racing feel with less space. There was a time when luxury sports sedans were introduced as portfolio fillers, but that was a long time ago. The battle between the BMW 3 Series, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and others has been going on for some time. A relative latecomer to the fray is the Genesis G70, which arrived in the U.S. as a 2019 model. After a 2022 redesign, it has been updated for the 2024 model year. Given its seemingly mutually exclusive goals of being a comfortable cruiser and a sporty performer, it raises some questions: Is…
How much has changed in a year?
I'm not that kind of person Always out for the latest and greatest gadgets. I don't really care about keeping up with the Joneses. I knew before I bought my 2023 Hyundai Sonata last year that it would be facelifted for 2024 with updated features. I'm happy with it. I don't regret my purchase. However, the more I see the updated Sonata, the clearer it is that it's more than just a novelty gimmick. It has useful upgrades. If I happen to rent one while traveling out of town, I won't be disappointed. Welcome to the future The current Sonata is a 2020 model, so it's due for a cosmetic update, especially at the front. The droopy catfish mouth has always been my biggest gripe with the car. For 2024, Hyundai tightens up the front and gives the Sonata a sharper, more futuristic nose, complete with an angular grille, hidden headlights, and "seamless horizon lights" (aka LED light bars). At…
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser review
What do fans of the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wagoneer have in common? Patience. They had to wait decades to see the latest versions of their beloved off-roaders. Land Cruiser fans in the United States also had to wait for its new generation, but they only kept an eye on the calendar and various enthusiast forums for about three years after Toyota discontinued the 200 Series in 2021. The Land Cruiser returns to our streets and trails as an all-new 2024 model. Like other reborn icons, it may have retained the spirit of its ancestors, but it has changed significantly. Same, but different When the 200 Series was ready to retire, it was a massive people-mover with room for up to three rows of passengers, a gas-guzzling 5.7-liter V8, and a starting price of $85,515. Its direct successor, the 300 Series, is available in the U.S., but only in Lexus LX 600 form. Toyota's new Land Cruiser is based on…
Buick Envision floor mats recalled to prevent accidents
Recalling 35,000 SUVs because the all-weather floor mats could get stuck on the accelerator pedal. August 18, 2024 — Buick's Envision floor mat recall affects nearly 35,000 SUVs because the all-weather mats could catch on the accelerator pedal while driving. The recalled 2024 Envision could experience sudden, unexpected acceleration as the driver tries to figure out what's going on. The recalled Buick Envision floor mats have part number 85647097. A GM dealer discovered the floor mat problem and launched an investigation in June. "The driver-side all-weather floor liner designed for 2021-2023 Buick Envision vehicles has not been modified to accommodate the design changes to the driver-side carpet on 2024 Buick Envision vehicles." — General Motors GM has discovered nine complaints that may be related to the floor mat problem, but has not received any reports of accidents or injuries. More than 7,000 SUVs are being recalled in Canada. GM dealers will retrofit the floor mats (if equipped) and reimburse owners…
RTR Vehicles brings Mystichrome back to the Mustang
In the car worldsometimes money just isn't enough. Certain supercar manufacturers will vet you before they'll approve you to buy their product. Others, like Ford, will make you wait a long time for the return of certain beloved models, like the Mustang Mach 1 or the Bronco. It's been two decades since Ford produced a 2004 SVT Mustang Cobra in Mystichrome paint. Guess what? It still hasn't added it back to the list of available colors. The good news is that RTR Vehicles has started offering the unique color-changing finish. A mysterious 1996 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra is for sale on ClassicCars.com The Blue Oval sports a paint scheme similar to the 1996 Mustang SVT Cobra. Back then, it was called "Mystic," and the color changed from black to purple to root beer brown, depending on the angle from which it was viewed. A Mystichrome 2004 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Convertible for sale on ClassicCars.com For the 2004 Terminator Cobra,…
MINI to Monterrey: Day 1 and Day 2
MINI agreed to lend it to me A 2025 Cooper S so I can put 3,100 miles on it and cover the events of Monterey Car Week. Click here to read part one of this series. Sorry for not posting about Day 1. The drive to Scranton, PA was boring and there were no detours. The photo below was taken when I arrived at the Fairfield Inn, where I seem to stay at least once a year. The next morning started at 6am with a quick breakfast waffle and a Diet Coke before setting off for South Bend, Indiana. The ride started out uneventful, but I was glad to have the adaptive cruise control and lane assist, which seemed to make the miles fly by on I- 80. Both worked extremely well and definitely helped ease traffic on the interstate. After refueling, I quickly called my friend Brandon Anderson, executive director and CEO of the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum.…
Honda to bring 1984 HP-X concept car to Pebble Beach
Probably You've probably never seen the 1984 Honda HP-X concept car before. You've probably never even seen Hear That's okay. We understand. It was unveiled at the 1984 Turin Motor Show but hasn't been seen in public for 40 years. That streak ends on Sunday, August 18, when it makes its North American debut at the 73rd annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance during Monterey Car Week in 2024. With its wedge-shaped Pininfarina design, it's sure to turn a lot of heads, but it's more than just looks. It's an important page in Honda and Acura history. We’re so used to concept cars that it’s easy to think they’ve always been around. In the 1980s, concept cars were new to Honda. In fact, the HP-X (Honda Pininfarina eXperimental) was Honda’s first concept car. Pininfarina’s designers certainly knew what a concept car should look like. They gave it an aggressive fighter jet-style removable one-piece Perspex canopy. Not only was this the highlight…
Honda to bring 1984 HP-X concept car to Pebble Beach
Probably You've probably never seen the 1984 Honda HP-X concept car before. You've probably never even seen Hear That's okay. We understand. It was unveiled at the 1984 Turin Motor Show but hasn't been seen in public for 40 years. That streak ends on Sunday, August 18, when it makes its North American debut at the 73rd annual Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance during Monterey Car Week in 2024. With its wedge-shaped Pininfarina design, it's sure to turn a lot of heads, but it's more than just looks. It's an important page in Honda and Acura history. We’re so used to concept cars that it’s easy to think they’ve always been around. In the 1980s, concept cars were new to Honda. In fact, the HP-X (Honda Pininfarina eXperimental) was Honda’s first concept car. Pininfarina’s designers certainly knew what a concept car should look like. They gave it an aggressive fighter jet-style removable one-piece Perspex canopy. Not only was this the highlight…
2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy AWD
The shape The latest generation of a car can often be summed up in two words: evolution or revolution. The Porsche 911 is an example of evolutionary visual change. Despite advances in aerodynamics and technology, it always looks like a 911. Then there's a car like the Hyundai Santa Fe. The fourth-generation model, which runs from 2019 to 2023, has curvy sheetmetal like many of its competitors. For the all-new 2024 model, Hyundai ditched the old design and started over with straight lines and rigid angles. It was a bloodless revolution that severed the visual connection between the new Santa Fe and its ancestors. (Top floor small room Hyundai offers the new Santa Fe in gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid guises. I recently had the opportunity to test drive the top-of-the-line gasoline Calligraphy model. Given its position in the trim hierarchy, our Calligraphy test car was already equipped with the $48,300 base price listed on the window sticker, including HTRAC…
Free Monterey Car Week Auction Tour with Andy Reid
this Courtesy of ClassicCars.com Magazine Free tours of Bonhams and RM Sotheby's auctions during Monterey Car Week hosted by Andy Reid. Both tours take place on Wednesday, August 14. See below to sign up for the auction you're interested in. If you'd like to be added to the waitlist, leave a comment below! Please note: If you have already informed us of your interest in attending via email, you are already on the list. Bonhams Monterey Auction Tour - Wednesday, August 14 at 9am If you would like to attend the Bonhams Monterey Auction with Andy Reid on Wednesday, August 14th at 9:00 AM please fill out this form. RM Sotheby's Monterey Auction Tour - Wednesday, August 14, 2:30 p.m. If you would like to attend the RM Sotheby's Monterey auction on Wednesday, August 14th at 2:30 pm, led by Andy Reid, please fill out this form.
2024 Jeep Gladiator to be unveiled in Florida
Truck Company Showcase A Ford has made its love for Texas clear by producing trim levels and special editions inspired by the Lone Star State. Ford's luxurious King Ranch pickup is named after the 825,000 acres of land made famous by the Running W brand. Ram has taken a similar route with the Laramie Longhorn Southfork Edition, named after the Southfork Ranch, which was featured on the TV show "Dallas." Chevrolet has gone more directly Texas with the Silverado. Now Florida A special edition of the 2024 Jeep Gladiator is being launched, called the High Tide Edition. 2024 Jeep Gladiator Mojave X Jeeps can go anywhere, but many owners choose to bring their vehicles to Daytona Beach, Florida, for the Jeep Beach event, which includes an obstacle course, off-road camp and a vehicle parade. “The annual Jeep Beach event in Florida this year attracted 250,000 people and 40,000 Jeep SUVs and midsize pickups over two weekends, one of the largest…