Car News from USA
Automotive news from the United States.
Ford has built a special Bronco with Seattle outfitter Filson, fitting the Bronco Raptor's 418 hp twin-turbo V6, the Sasquatch off-road package as standard, and Filson-trimmed leather. Orders open in fall 2026, deliveries in early 2027.
GM has opened a design studio in Pasadena and shown its first result - the GMC Hummer X concept. Its modular Flex Fab body uses 3D-printed panels, and GMC presented it in both SUV and pickup forms.
Rezvani has built its first pickup. The Fortress starts as a Ford F-150 Raptor, keeps only the platform, and adds up to 862 hp and military-grade armor packages. Prices run from $285,000 to $582,685.
From the 2027 model year, Volkswagen will no longer sell any car with a manual gearbox in the United States. The Jetta GLI was the last holdout. It joins the Golf GTI and Golf R, both of which lost their manuals in recent years.
Google's biggest update to Android Auto and Google Built-in adds a Material 3 redesign, immersive 3D Maps navigation, Full HD video, Dolby Atmos audio, and an expanded Gemini assistant. Rollout during 2026.
The two companies signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to jointly develop vehicles for America. No specific models or technologies disclosed - both sides say they are beginning to explore possibilities.
The seventh special edition in Jeep's Twelve 4 Twelve anniversary programme marks three milestones simultaneously - 85 years of Jeep, 85 years of Captain America, and 250 years of the United States. Built on the Willys base, with Marvel-licensed graphics, a shield-printed spare cover, and engine choices up to the 470 hp 6.4L V8. Sales begin summer 2026.
To mark its debut Formula 1 season, Cadillac built 26 examples of the most powerful Blackwing ever made. A new GM Motorsports supercharger raises output to 685 hp. Six-speed manual only. The Precision Package (normally $18,000) is standard. No pricing announced; expected to exceed $150,000.
Cadillac announced the Escalade IQL, the long-wheelbase version of the electric IQ. GM Ultium platform, 205 kWh, 800V, 750 hp, ~740 km range (Cadillac estimate). Seven seats, 55" curved display, Super Cruise. From $132,695.
Stellantis showed the updated Jeep Avenger in Brazil first. European version expected to look identical. Exterior updates confirmed - interior and powertrain details still unannounced. Full premiere coming soon.
The 2027 F-250/F-350 Super Duty gets a Carhartt collaboration package - announced in January, now revealed in full. Dark grille, body-coloured bumpers, unique 20" wheels inspired by the Detroit manhole cover outside Carhartt's flagship store, Carhartt fabric throughout the interior. Orders open now.
Ford's Model e division posted a $4.8B operating loss in 2025 on top of $10.7B in programme writedowns. GM added $6B. The F-150 Lightning is discontinued. Cadillac Lyriq, Vistiq, GMC Hummer EV, and Escalade IQ production is being cut. Both companies are pivoting to hybrids and EREVs.