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The Dodge Charger may soon reclaim its muscle car legacy with a V-8 engine, reigniting excitement for enthusiasts who crave raw power and iconic performance.

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Hellcat Power Could Be Back

There’s a strong possibility that Dodge will reintroduce a V-8 under the Charger’s hood, as the electric Daytona hasn’t fully resonated with buyers. When asked if a Hellcat engine could fit in the new Charger, CEO Matt McAlear stated, “Don’t be surprised if it would fit.” This hints at a return to the muscle car’s traditional roots, though official confirmation is still pending.

Naming and Trims: Legacy Matters

Dodge has reserved the Scat Pack and R/T badges for six-cylinder models, while the EV takes the Daytona name. Fans hope the Hellcat moniker returns, though SRT8 or Super Bee could also make a comeback. The entry-level SXT trim seems unlikely, leaving enthusiasts curious about how Dodge will position the new V-8 Charger.

Design: Aggressive and Functional

The V-8 Charger will likely adopt styling cues from the Charger Sixpack, featuring a conventional grille and hood instead of the Daytona’s R-Wing setup. At the rear, expect a large diffuser, unique bumper, and twin round tailpipes, emphasizing aggressive performance while maintaining recognizable Dodge design elements.

Powertrain: What We Know

The most probable engine is the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, producing 395 hp and 410 lb-ft of torque, compatible with the platform. High-output variants could follow, rivaling the Charger Sixpack R/T’s 420 hp. Dodge enthusiasts can anticipate classic V-8 sound, instant torque, and exhilarating performance once the engine arrives.

When and How Much?

While Dodge hasn’t officially confirmed a new V-8 Charger, CEO McAlear hinted at ICE production expansion, suggesting a return is likely. Pricing could mirror the current Charger Sixpack R/T with potential premium for the Hemi option. For fans of American muscle, the return of a V-8 Charger promises power, heritage, and uncompromised driving thrill.

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2027 Kia Sorento Hybrid Gets New X-Line Trims and Updated Features

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Kia introduces a new X-Line EX model for 2027, updates selected features and sets U.S. pricing for the Sorento Hybrid lineup starting at $39,090.

Kia America has announced pricing for the 2027 Kia Sorento Hybrid, expanding the range with a new X-Line EX trim and introducing several design and equipment updates. The lineup includes four configurations, with different drivetrain options and equipment levels to suit buyers looking for a hybrid midsize SUV.

The 2027 Kia Sorento Hybrid lineup adds a new X-Line EX configuration.

2027 Kia Sorento Hybrid Prices

The 2027 Kia Sorento Hybrid starts at $39,090 for the EX with front-wheel drive. Buyers can also choose all-wheel drive or move up to one of the two X-Line versions, both of which come with all-wheel drive.

ModelDrivetrainStarting MSRP
Sorento HEV EXFWD$39,090
Sorento HEV EXAWD$40,890
Sorento HEV X-Line EXAWD$43,090
Sorento HEV X-Line SX-PrestigeAWD$47,590


The prices exclude a $1,495 destination charge. Including that fee, the EX FWD starts at $40,585, before taxes, registration and other applicable costs.

New X-Line EX Adds Black Exterior Details

The main addition for 2027 is the Sorento Hybrid X-Line EX. This new trim builds on the EX equipment package with gloss-black wheels and gloss-black exterior accents, giving it a distinct appearance within the range.

Kia also equips all X-Line versions with machined wood inlays on the instrument panel and doors. These interior details distinguish the X-Line models from the standard EX configuration. the standard EX models.ferent interior finish to the models positioned above the standard EX.

The X-Line EX combines gloss-black exterior accents with additional design details.

SX-Prestige Gains Additional Equipment

The X-Line SX-Prestige remains the top configuration in the 2027 Sorento Hybrid lineup. Its equipment includes a panoramic sunroof, Bose Premium Audio and second-row captain’s chairs.

The head-up display is now standard on SX-Prestige trims. It projects selected driving information into the driver’s field of view, allowing key details to be viewed without looking down at the instrument panel.

These additions give the top trim a more extensive equipment package than the entry-level EX, while the X-Line EX provides another option for buyers who want the distinctive exterior styling.

Exterior Updates for the 2027 Model Year

Kia has also revised the Sorento Hybrid’s color and exterior badging. Pale Gray replaces Steel Gray in the available color selection, while new HEV emblems on the tailgate identify the vehicle’s hybrid powertrain.

These changes accompany the new X-Line EX and the revised equipment offerings. They update the model’s appearance and trim choices without constituting a complete redesign.

New HEV tailgate emblems identify the Sorento Hybrid.

With a starting MSRP of $39,090 before destination charges, the 2027 Kia Sorento Hybrid offers four configurations for U.S. buyers. The EX provides the entry point, while the X-Line EX adds distinctive styling and the SX-Prestige brings additional comfort and technology features.

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Formula1

Aston Martin Gives AMR26 a New Look for Austin

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Aston Martin will showcase a special AMR26 livery at the United States Grand Prix, celebrating five years of its partnership with Cognizant.

Aston Martin is preparing a special appearance for the 2026 United States Grand Prix in Austin, where its AMR26 will mark five years of collaboration with Cognizant. The partnership began in 2021 and remains part of the team’s identity in Formula One.

The AMR26 will carry a special design for the United States Grand Prix weekend.

Aston Martin Marks Five Years With Cognizant

The Austin Grand Prix provides the setting for Aston Martin to recognize the milestone. Since the partnership began in 2021, Cognizant has maintained a prominent association with the team’s Formula One program.

The anniversary also comes as the relationship expands into new areas of technology. Earlier in 2026, Cognizant became Aston Martin’s Global AI Services Partner, strengthening the technological dimension of the collaboration.

Technology and Formula One

Modern Formula One relies on data analysis, software and advanced computing to support decisions throughout a race weekend. Teams use these tools to evaluate performance, develop strategies and improve their operations.

Aston Martin’s expanded relationship with Cognizant reflects the growing role of artificial intelligence and digital technology in motorsport. However, the partnership’s announcement alone does not establish a specific performance gain for the AMR26.

Data analysis and digital tools are important parts of modern Formula One operations.

Austin Provides the Backdrop

The United States Grand Prix gives Aston Martin an opportunity to highlight the anniversary in front of American fans. The special livery will bring the partnership into focus during the Austin race weekend.

The design also connects the team’s on-track presence with a collaboration that has evolved since 2021. With Cognizant’s expanded role in artificial intelligence, the anniversary reflects both the history of the relationship and its continuing technological focus.

Aston Martin’s special AMR26 appearance will be one of the team’s key visual elements at the United States Grand Prix. Further details about the livery’s specific design features should be confirmed through the team’s official announcement.

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INTELLIGENT MOBILITY

Rivian Turns Drivers Into Testers for Its Next Big Tech Upgrade

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The automaker is inviting select R1 and R2 owners to try a new route-based driving assistant before a wider U.S. rollout.

Rivian is preparing to expand its driver-assistance technology with Point to Point, a system designed to handle more of a journey than conventional hands-free highway assistance. The first phase will be limited to selected customers, with a broader rollout planned for 2027.

Rivian is starting its latest driving technology program with eligible owners of newer R1 models and the R2.

From Highway Assistance to Full Routes

Point to Point builds on Rivian’s existing Universal Hands-Free system. It is designed to follow a planned route, including turns, highway merges and surface streets, while the driver remains responsible for supervising the vehicle.

The technology combines the vehicle’s sensors and cameras with Rivian’s Large Driving Model, which interprets surrounding conditions and helps determine how the vehicle should respond.

Point to Point aims to manage more of a planned journey while requiring the driver to remain attentive.

Who Can Join the Early Access Program?

The initial program targets eligible Gen 2 R1 and R2 owners in California and Florida. Applicants must have an active paid Autonomy+ subscription; free trials do not qualify.

Rivian will consider existing use of its driver-assistance features, recent safety records and a balance of vehicle models and regions when selecting participants. Owners can register their interest through the Autonomy Early Access tile in their Rivian account.

Eligible owners can register their interest through their Rivian account.

Testing Comes With Conditions

Selected participants must use the preview features weekly, report issues and complete monthly surveys. They must also agree to data collection that includes location and camera data, under a non-disclosure agreement.

The program is unpaid, and Rivian can reassess participants’ eligibility every 30 days. First-generation R1 vehicles and Canadian owners are excluded from the initial phase.

Camera and sensor data are part of the technology Rivian is developing and evaluating.

A Wider Rollout Is Planned for 2027

Rivian expects Point to Point to reach a broader group of Autonomy+ customers in 2027, following the early-access phase. Feedback from interested owners outside California and Florida may also help inform which states are considered for expansion.

The R2 is among the vehicles targeted for the initial program, with wider availability expected to follow.

Point to Point remains a Level 2 driver-assistance system, not fully autonomous driving. Drivers must stay attentive and be ready to take control at all times.

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