The automotive industry is always on the move, and this past week was no exception. From the debut of the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger to the testing of a road-going Audi R8 race car, there were several exciting developments that caught the attention of auto enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at the top stories from the week in reverse.
2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger: One of the most exciting debuts of the week was the 2025 Ram 1500 Ramcharger. This new model features a series plug-in hybrid powertrain, setting it apart from its predecessors. Designed to be a companion to the electric 2025 Ram 1500 REV, the Ramcharger boasts an electric powertrain along with a V-6 engine that acts as a generator to extend the range of an onboard 92-kwh battery pack. This innovative powertrain configuration gives the truck an impressive total range of 690 miles, making it a standout in the competitive pickup truck market.
2024 Lexus LX: While the 2024 Lexus LX may not have undergone any major changes from the previous model year, the announcement of its release was still a noteworthy event. The only update for the new model year is an increase in price, with the 2024 LX starting at $90,515. Despite this price bump, the 2024 LX maintains the twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V-6 powertrain, with no word yet on the release of the hybrid LX 700h model.
Next-Generation Jeep Wrangler: Looking ahead to the future, the next-generation Jeep Wrangler, known as the J70 series, is shaping up to be a game-changer. Set to debut in 2028, the J70 series will be exclusively powered by electrified powertrains. This development comes as part of the recent UAW agreement with Stellantis, with a document outlining the automaker’s future plans showing a commitment to electric and series plug-in hybrid powertrains for the next generation of the iconic off-road vehicle.
Toyota Crown SUV: Toyota is set to debut a new crossover SUV, the Toyota Crown, on November 14. This exciting announcement was paired with news that the U.S. version of the crossover will feature, or at least offer, a hybrid powertrain combined with all-wheel drive. With a showing at the 2023 Los Angeles auto show on the horizon, the anticipation for the Toyota Crown SUV is already building among automotive enthusiasts.
Audi R8 LMS GT2: Last but certainly not least, a road-going version of the Audi R8 LMS GT2 made headlines this week as it underwent track development. While spotted being put through its paces in the rain, this street-legal race car is generating buzz as a potential final hurrah for the R8 before an electric replacement arrives. The performance and track capabilities of the R8 LMS GT2 make it a standout in the world of high-performance sports cars.
With so many exciting developments in the automotive industry, it’s clear that the future of transportation is set to be electrifying. From groundbreaking powertrains to track-ready road cars, the latest news from the automotive world has something for everyone to get excited about. Whether you’re a pickup truck aficionado, a luxury SUV enthusiast, or a performance car fanatic, there’s plenty to look forward to in the coming years.