Latest news with #ArabGT
ArabGT
3 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
From Riyadh to Beijing The Five Biggest Automotive Headlines of the Week
We're back with our weekly roundup of the most impactful developments across the automotive industry—from cutting-edge launches and exclusive test drives to major strategic moves shaping the future of mobility. This week, Riyadh marks a historic milestone in smart transport, Xiaomi makes a bold debut in the EV segment, and global headlines swirl around Tesla, Bentley, and a politically charged trade deal. Here's what you need to know. Saudi Arabia Launches Pilot Program for Self-Driving Taxis In a regional first, Saudi Arabia's General Transport Authority has launched a pilot phase for autonomous taxis in Riyadh, with the participation of the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser. The 12-month trial includes 13 electric charging stations spread across seven strategic locations in the capital. While the vehicles operate autonomously, safety drivers are present during the initial phase. With a top speed of 100 km/h, the initiative reflects Saudi Arabia's strategic push toward innovative, sustainable mobility solutions. Xiaomi Enters the EV Arena with a Powerful Debut Drive of the YU7 Arab GT was granted exclusive access to test the all-new Xiaomi YU7, the luxury electric SUV that marks the tech giant's ambitious leap into the automotive world. Our colleague Ahmed Abu Jameel tested the 'Max' variant—the most powerful version—equipped with dual electric motors delivering a combined output of 673 horsepower and 866 Nm of torque. The YU7 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.23 seconds. With such performance and refinement, Xiaomi signals it's not here to experiment—it's here to compete. Tesla's 'New' Affordable Car Is Just a Cheaper Model Y After months of speculation, Tesla has confirmed that its anticipated affordable EV isn't an all-new model but a lower-priced version of the existing Model Y. During the Q2 earnings call, CEO Elon Musk stated, 'It's simply the Model Y,' reaffirming the company's current focus on optimizing existing platforms instead of introducing new nameplates. While this strategy could offer short-term relief amid slowing sales, it raises critical questions about whether pricing alone can fuel Tesla's long-term growth. Trump-Japan Trade Deal Sparks Outrage in the U.S. Auto Industry A new trade agreement between former U.S. President Donald Trump's administration and Japan has drawn sharp criticism from American automakers—especially the Detroit Big Three. The deal imposes a 15% tariff on Japanese cars and parts, while U.S. brands manufacturing abroad continue to face tariffs of up to 25%. Beyond the numbers, the deal reignites the debate between protectionism and free-market competition, potentially disrupting global supply dynamics. Bentley Bentayga Speed Tested by Arab GT's Mousub Shashaa In a rare and exclusive drive, Arab GT founder Mousub Shashaa got behind the wheel of the latest Bentley Bentayga Speed—the most powerful version of the British marque's top-selling SUV. While the model has moved away from the iconic W12 engine, it's now bolder than ever. A key highlight is the Akrapovič titanium exhaust system, which adds an exhilarating acoustic edge to the driving experience. It's a clear example of Bentley's unmatched ability to merge ultra-luxury with uncompromising performance.
ArabGT
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- ArabGT
A Week of Exciting News and Exclusive Test Drives for Car Enthusiasts
This week in the automotive world was packed with major headlines—ranging from iconic engine comebacks to exclusive supercar experiences, safety concerns, and standout test drives. Here's a roundup of the most important developments that caught global and regional attention: HEMI V8 Makes a Triumphant Comeback at Stellantis In a bold move responding to overwhelming market demand, Stellantis reintroduced the legendary HEMI V8 engine in the 2026 RAM 1500 lineup. Despite introducing the more efficient Hurricane engine, 40% of customers still prefer the raw power and unmistakable sound of the V8. The result? Over 10,000 orders in just 24 hours, even with an added cost of $1,200. RAM's CEO openly admitted misjudging the market—proving that for many, power and identity outweigh eco-efficiency. Exclusive Arab Test Drive of Ferrari's F80 Beast ArabGT was the only Arab media outlet among 20 journalists worldwide to get behind the wheel of the all-new Ferrari F80 2025—Ferrari's most powerful road-legal car to date. Driven by Suhaib Shasha'a on Italy's Misano circuit, the F80 stunned with its hybrid V6 twin-turbo system and futuristic aerodynamic design. More than a car, the F80 is an engineering statement, redefining performance and Italian excellence. Range Rover Evoque Recall Due to Airbag Defect Jaguar Land Rover has recalled over 21,000 Range Rover Evoque units in the U.S. due to a critical front passenger airbag defect that could cause severe injuries. Covering model years 2021 to 2025, the recall is expected to expand globally. Though no injuries have been reported, the move underscores the importance of safety compliance even in luxury vehicles. ArabGT's Exclusive Drive of the New AMG GT 63 In a thrilling episode of ArabGT's test drive series, host Karim Deeb took the wheel of the all-new second-generation Mercedes AMG GT 63. The drive offered a fresh perspective on how this German powerhouse evolved—not just in speed, but in everyday comfort, tech sophistication, and overall balance. More than a spec sheet, it was a driving experience that proves AMG still knows how to stir the soul. BMW Sub-Brands Steal the Spotlight BMW's Q2 2025 results revealed a surprising trend: its sub-brands—BMW M, MINI, and Rolls-Royce—are driving growth, while the core BMW brand saw a slight decline. MINI drew buyers with its electrified icons, M Division impressed with sports performance, and Rolls-Royce flourished in wealthy markets. With electric models gaining traction and sub-brands thriving, the future strategy of BMW may be headed in a new direction.
ArabGT
17-07-2025
- Automotive
- ArabGT
UAE Leads the Arab World in U.S. Car Imports
ArabGT This surge reflects the country's role as a major regional automotive hub, not only for local consumption but also as a gateway for re-export to other markets in Asia and Africa. Saudi Arabia Close Behind Saudi Arabia maintained its position as the second-largest Arab importer of American automotive products, with total imports reaching $866 million. Of this, $652 million went toward passenger cars, $101 million for buses and trucks, and $113 million for spare parts. In May 2025 alone, imports hit $243 million, signaling robust market activity across both private and commercial sectors. Kuwait Steady and Consistent Kuwait recorded $226 million in imports from the U.S. during the same period, reflecting a stable and confident market. Passenger cars made up the largest portion at $153 million, followed by $47 million for commercial vehicles and $26 million for spare parts. In May, Kuwait brought in $54 million worth of imports—showing steady demand for American-made vehicles. The Bigger Picture: A Two-Way Trade On the flip side, the U.S. automotive export industry continues to perform strongly, with total exports reaching over $69 billion in the first five months of 2025. However, American imports outpaced that figure significantly, with over $183 billion in vehicles and parts brought in. The bulk of these imports came from just five key countries: Mexico, Japan, Canada, South Korea, and Germany. Together, these five nations accounted for more than 81% of the U.S.'s total automotive imports—highlighting the deeply interconnected nature of the global automotive supply chain.
ArabGT
09-07-2025
- Automotive
- ArabGT
Electric Bentley EXP 15 Breaks Tradition, Reimagines Prestige
Bentley has previewed its most ambitious future yet with the online unveiling of the electric Bentley EXP 15—a jaw-dropping concept that redefines the very definition of luxury in the modern era. When it takes center stage at Britain's 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, this three-door, three-seat behemoth will represent a landmark moment in the history of the British marque. ArabGT's founder `Musab Shashaa will report exclusively on location, bringing us unique insights regarding this long-awaited spectacle. In a time when the auto universe is being rocked on its foundations by technology comes the electric Bentley, which can only be a statement of intent. More than showing evolution, the EXP 15 effects reinvention. From reckless architecture and Spartan interior designed for excess, not accommodation, Bentley is redefining what should be an electric grand tourer. Designing for Tomorrow, Where Heritage Counts Most Visually, the electric Bentley EXP 15 blends refined old lines of a coupe and angular forward-looking statements. Out front, a lit redefinition of Bentley's fabled grille—now laced with luminous crystalline surfaces—announces the agenda right off. It's a motorcar that bows to history but looks forward. Its most surprising feature, perhaps, lies in its three-door configuration—the two doors on one side and one on the other—a deliberately devised arrangement emphasizing exclusivity and Bentely's streak for unorthodoxy. Aboard the Electric Bentley: Three-Person Luxury While most mass production EVs aim for numbers, electric Bentley's EXP 15 delivers a bespoke, intimate cockpit for just three people. It's a triumph of craftsmanship: organic, sustainably-made leather sits alongside hand-shaped aluminium and opulent detail work in wood. Its interior is headed by a horizontally sweeping curved digital instrument panel that connects driver to center of the auto, and in rear, are reclining, rotating, or smart stowage seats—with options for a personal pet corner. Everything's about enhancing that personal luxury experience. Wiring the World: All-Electric with All-Wheel Drive While no complete technical specifications have been unveiled by Bentley, the EXP 15 has been confirmed to be a full electric Bentley that will employ a sophisticated all-wheel-drive powertrain. With extended range and fast recharging, it establishes the benchmark for Bentley's first production EV, which will likely happen within several years. This Concept Electric Bentley draws styling inspiration from one of Bentley's all-time greats, a 1930s Speed 6 racing legend. By tying past and future together not just in styling, but in spirit, it extends that legacy forward. A New Emblem for a New Electric Era To coincide with the EXP 15's debut, also arrives Bentley's re-designed winged logo—the biggest redesign in a time frame of over two decades. More agile, more angular, the re-designed badge draws inspiration from the falcon to relay speed, grace, and forward movement, which reflects the brand's electric future. Electric Revolution Starts for Bentley With EXP 15, Bentley is not just launching a vision—it's penning its future chapter. It's an electric Bentley that's a statement of belief in tomorrow, which brings handcrafted luxury expertise together with future-proof electric power. Although the EXP 15 will not find its way to showrooms in production form, its DNA and soul will shape forthcoming electric production Bentleys. It's a significant step towards a future where British luxury and electric power coexist in complete harmony. Can the electric Bentley maintain the marque's aura of exclusivity in this shifting global EV marketplace? And can the EXP 15 be considered a landmark in luxury auto styling? Get involved and have your say.
ArabGT
15-06-2025
- Automotive
- ArabGT
2025 Nissan Patrol Review
Marking the debut of its seventh generation, the all-new 2025 Nissan Patrol represents a significant leap forward for the iconic SUV. Unlike a quick first-look, our ArabGT team chose to spend extended time with the vehicle, collecting real-world feedback from actual owners to offer a well-rounded, in-depth review. The result is a comprehensive look at a model that's not just refreshed—but redefined. Exterior Design While this review focuses primarily on performance and features, it's worth noting the 2025 Nissan Patrol's exterior matches its elevated mechanical evolution. The design aligns more with premium global SUVs, drawing comparisons to luxury American and German rivals in presence and quality. 2025 Nissan Patrol Interior Inside, the 2025 Patrol shows substantial upgrades in comfort and technology. The seats, redesigned using NASA-inspired Zero Gravity technology, offer superb comfort bolstered by excellent cooling, an effective massage system, and two generous 14.3-inch rear entertainment screens. Nissan's air conditioning system remains world-class, now enhanced with a Biometric Cooling feature that individually adjusts airflow based on each passenger's body temperature. The cabin is quieter and more refined, with better material quality throughout. Mechanical Specifications Two engine choices are available for the new Patrol. The flagship Platinum Full Option model features a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine delivering 425 horsepower and 700 Nm of torque. This engine offers robust performance and impressive daily driving dynamics. However, repeated high-performance demands revealed a drop in acceleration consistency, likely due to heat management software that prioritizes durability. The second option is a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6, producing 316 hp and 386 Nm of torque. Though more modest on paper, it proves reliable and consistent under load, making it ideal for off-road enthusiasts and those who prefer simpler, time-tested technology. Suspension The 2025 Patrol introduces Adaptive Air Suspension in higher trims, which dramatically enhances on-road stability and reduces body roll in corners. Front-seat comfort is excellent on highways and uneven surfaces. However, rear-seat passengers in the air-suspended variant reported discomfort over small bumps, hinting that the system still needs refinement. Conversely, models with traditional spring suspension offered a smoother experience for rear occupants, though they lack the dynamic advantages of air suspension during sharp turns. Transmission and Brakes A nine-speed automatic gearbox handles power delivery smoothly and efficiently. Shifts are seamless, and the system feels well-tuned for various driving conditions. The braking performance is also commendable, with responsive, confident stopping power and no noted faults. Safety and Driver Assistance The Patrol is equipped with an updated suite of safety and assistance technologies, including Nissan's ProPILOT system. While functional, the system can be overly sensitive—particularly around lane markings. Other features include front and rear automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag. A Head-Up Display and vastly improved 360-degree cameras further enhance safety and driver awareness. 2025 Nissan Patrol Price In the UAE, the naturally aspirated 2025 Patrol starts at $65,320 (AED 239,900), rising to $87,920 (AED 322,900). The twin-turbo version begins at $81,120 (AED 297,900) and goes up to $105,900 (AED 388,900), depending on trim and options. 2025 Nissan Patrol Images Gallery
