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Forbes
31-07-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
Comparing The 2025 Lotus Emira V6 and Porsche Cayman GTS
While not as populous as it once was, the new sports car market is stacked with excellent hardware. With lively powertrains, extensive chassis and suspension tuning, sharp looks, and pique automotive technology supporting it all, it's a great time to be in the market. Especially for anyone after something higher-end from Germany or the United Kingdom, and with just over $100,000 to spend. The 2025 Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 and Lotus Emira V6 start at $101,695 and $102,250, respectively, and couldn't be more evenly matched in their ability to put a smile on any enthusiast's face. Both produce around 400 horsepower from their mid-mounted engines, are available with a manual transmission and possess just two seats in their cabins. I recently had the chance to drive each of these six-speed manual-equipped luxury sports cars within a three-week timespan, and they both arrived with around 500 miles on the odometer. This comparison couldn't be more perfect; here's how they stack up against each other. Exterior and Interior The quickest of glances reveals each model's sporting intentions. They're low-slung and focused fare, with pronounced front and rear fenders and hatches in place of conventional trunk lids, plus energetic facial expressions by way of their respective grille, headlight, and front bumper designs. But each conveys sportiness in a different way—no matter color, the Porsche is more understated, ready to blend in with normal traffic. The Lotus is more angular, and, with such large vents straked across its rear fenders and doors, conjures up an aesthetic that's usually reserved for Ferrari and McLaren. They're both handsome little devils, and it's truly up to the eye of the beholder which they'd rather accumulate mileage in as a weekend toy, spicy daily commuter, or both. Inside, it's harder to differentiate between the two. Materials are well-appointed with leather and Alcantara throughout, a comfortable sports car driving position, and a center infotainment screen that's small and out of the way. Both felt like they underwent thorough quality control in rooting out squeaks and rattles, though the Lotus is ever-so-slightly lacking here—there's also less insulation between the seats and engine, so you hear more of what's going on back there. Again, personal preference, and both have their fair share of road and tire noise. Two areas where the Cayman has a clear advantage is cargo room and visibility. It's easier to see out of it—although the Emira isn't terrible—and it has quite a lot more storage between its trunk and frunk. However, there are interesting trade-offs between the two: The Lotus may only have a small trunk area, but it has much larger door pockets and interior storage. On the other hand, the Porsche has miniscule door pockets and not much for interior storage besides a small shelf behind the seats and the glovebox—its center armrest flips up to store exactly one average-sized cell phone, and nothing more. Connectivity-wise, the Emira reigns supreme, but that's not saying much, as it has two USB-C ports as opposed to the Cayman's single USB-A. Neither possesses the best cupholder design, but at least the Cayman's two flip out from the dashboard in front of the passenger, whereas the Emira's are rather small and inconveniently placed right behind the shifter. Finally, interior space is quite good between the two. My tall, lanky stature fit in both quite comfortably with lots of headroom, though the Porsche was just a bit more spacious and airy, and its seat felt tailor-made for me, too. The Lotus' dimensions are more condensed, but not to an annoying degree, and its seat felt like it was better-suited for someone standing a few inches shorter. Inputs In our modern era of electrically assisted power steering reigning supreme, and gears being selected by way of hydraulic pressure, this may be the most important trait between the Cayman and Emira. The Porsche has the best-of-the-best on the electric end of the steering spectrum: It loads up in corners, has great feedback, and even cues you in on available grip and road texture quite well. And, because it's electric, if you choose to just cruise around in comfort and not think about these things, it'll ensure you never have to. The Lotus' hydraulically assisted rack is all this and more; you feel so much of what's going on at the front end, it's so busy and granular. Not to any unsettling degree, but you do have to keep a firmer grasp on it across awkwardly cambered surfaces and large bumps. Like their respective designs, this one's a toss-up—it all comes down to personal preference. It's a pleasure to shift one's own gears in 2025, and both the Porsche and Lotus offer it free-of-charge at their base MSRPs. The Baden-Württemberg bruiser gets the upper-hand in this department—its shifter has perfect spring and a very positive and smooth engagement. The Emira is still a treat, but is clunkier in its operation and smooth/fast shifts are harder to master. However, the Emira edges past the Cayman in the pedal box. While not for every shoe size, I absolutely adored the Emira's formula car-like dimensions, as it made for very precise inputs and the perfect heel-toe downshift felt like a real accomplishment. The Cayman wasn't bad here, but spacing between the brake and gas—on either axis—wasn't quite as ideal. In terms of braking inputs, themselves, I also preferred the Emira's firmer and grabbier offering, whereas the Porsche's had a hair too much initial softness. Performance These two European sports cars continue to be neck-and-neck in regards to their respective outputs. The Cayman's naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six produces 394 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, whereas the Emira V6's 3.5-liter supercharged V6 puts out 400 and 310, respectively. Considering the former's 3,196-pound curbweight, and the latter's 3,279, there couldn't be a closer match. As tested by Car And Driver, they're within a half-second of each other's 0-60 time. It's even tougher when you start pondering each powerplant's respective personality. The 4.0's deep howl was legitimately intoxicating—I wanted to drive the Cayman as much as possible, just to hear its angry bark from the 3,000 RPM and higher. But then, the same goes for the Emira—while higher-pitched and sharper, it too sounded awesome from the mid-range and beyond, and the harmonizing supercharger whine was simply beautiful. Finally, one area where there's a clear advantage: Gearing. The GTS is geared rather long, so it took some readjusting in my brain to determine the best cog to be in while ripping through my favorite test roads. Enthusiasts say this is to help sandbag it against Porsche's coveted 911 badge, which makes sense, but I wouldn't say it was bad. Rather, not as ideal. The Emira's gearing was much more natural and akin to what you'd expect from a small sports car, therefore it's at the top of the podium in this category. Driving Experience Finally, it all comes down to how each of these little mid-engine monsters take on a fun, twisty road. But, yet again, it's quite hard to select a clear winner. They're both eager to turn in, have great overall communication, and respond with the slightest amount of roll to help key drivers in on how much lateral G each tire's contact patch is putting up with. Well, the Cayman does so with adaptive dampers (Sport was my preferred overall setting), whereas the Emira does so with conventional passive units, but both are excellent. Even though the Cayman has MacPherson suspension up front, whereas the Emira is double-wishbone all around. Since the Emira has less bodywork and equipment ahead of the front axle, it feels slightly more lively. But the Cayman is no slouch here, either. They both have blissfully low centers of gravity, and no self-respecting cornering aficionado would gripe about their sizes on the road—between the two, you feel like it's easier to safely carve the line you want, inside your lane, unlike a lot of bloated high-performance sedans these days. The Lotus feels more like an event, thanks to more interior noise, having to climb down into it, and its more exotic looks and driving position. The Porsche, while more refined, is also a real treat to plop down into, hear the guttural anger of its 4.0 across the entire rev band, and generally enjoy in any scenario. They're both enthusiast-comfortable in daily driving, though, the Porsche rides just a tad smoother, thanks to its adaptive dampers. Here, it's a draw. Prospective owners will simply have to drive both and go from there. Two Brilliant Sports Car I was thrilled to get to drive the 2025 Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 and Lotus Emira V6 within a few weeks of each other, and with both having around 500 miles on their odometers. They're both top choices in the high-end European sports car market—it's incredibly tough to argue with either. The Emira is also available with a Mercedes-AMG-sourced turbocharged four-cylinder and dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which is also a lot of fun, but the stick-shifted V6 is my preferred iteration. The Cayman and Emira V6 handle, steer, and accelerate brilliantly, and their inputs are truly top-shelf. It would take a lot of pondering and soul-searching to decide between either, especially if purchased as new. However, with the Cayman reportedly ceasing production this fall, the decision process may be a bit easier. I'm still pulling for Porsche to come out and say that a new gasoline-powered Boxster/Cayman generation is on the way, but time is ticking. The Emira won't be around much longer, either, so get in while the gettin's good.
Geeky Gadgets
29-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Ollama's Turbo Update : Features Speed, Power, and Privacy
What if interacting with artificial intelligence could be as seamless as chatting with a friend—no technical hurdles, no steep learning curves? With Ollama's latest Turbo Update, that vision comes closer to reality. This fantastic release doesn't just tweak a few features; it reimagines how users engage with AI, blending speed, power, and accessibility into a single, cohesive platform. From a sleek new interface to new features like 'Turbo Mode,' Ollama is setting a bold new standard for AI accessibility. Whether you're a seasoned developer or an AI enthusiast just starting out, this update promises to make AI interaction faster, smarter, and more intuitive than ever before. Sam Witteveen explores how Ollama's enhancements, such as streamlined file interaction, expanded model support, and robust privacy controls—are reshaping the landscape of AI tools. You'll discover how the platform's thoughtful design lowers barriers for users of all skill levels, while innovations like token-based plans and local storage options ensure flexibility and security. But what truly sets this update apart? It's not just about making AI easier to use—it's about empowering you to unlock its full potential. As we dive into the details, you might find yourself rethinking what's possible in your own AI workflows. Ollama's TurboUpdate A Streamlined and Intuitive App Interface The updated app interface replaces the previous menu bar system with a centralized, user-friendly design. This improvement allows you to manage multiple AI models directly within the app, eliminating the need for complex navigation. Whether you are new to AI or seeking a more efficient workflow, this streamlined interface is tailored to enhance usability and save time. By consolidating features into a single, intuitive hub, Ollama ensures that you can focus on exploring AI capabilities without unnecessary distractions. Enhanced File Interaction and Customization Ollama now supports interaction with various file types, including PDFs and images, allowing you to provide contextual inputs for more precise AI responses. This feature is particularly valuable for tasks requiring detailed analysis or specific references, such as document summarization or image-based queries. Additionally, the platform allows you to adjust model context size and storage preferences, offering greater control over how your data is processed and stored. These enhancements empower you to tailor the platform to your specific needs, whether for personal projects or professional applications. Turbo Mode: Uniting Speed and Power A standout feature of this update is 'Turbo Mode,' which provides access to high-performance cloud-based models like Kimmy K2. Turbo Mode delivers faster processing speeds without requiring local GPU setups or complex API configurations. This feature is particularly useful for handling large-scale models or obtaining quick results for intricate queries. Whether you are a casual user exploring AI capabilities or a professional managing complex workflows, Turbo Mode ensures that you can achieve results efficiently and effectively. Expanded Model Support and Flexibility The platform now supports advanced AI models such as Quen 3 and Kimmy K2, while also allowing you to upload and test your own models. This flexibility caters to a wide range of users, from hobbyists experimenting with pre-trained models to developers working on custom AI solutions. By offering broader model support, Ollama ensures that you have the tools necessary to meet diverse requirements, whether for research, development, or creative exploration. New Ollama AI Features July 2025 Watch this video on YouTube. Here are more guides from our previous articles and guides related to Ollama that you may find helpful. Token-Based Usage Plans for Versatility To accommodate varying usage levels, Ollama employs a token-based system. The free plan provides 10,000 tokens every seven days, making it suitable for light to moderate use. For users with more intensive needs, the Pro plan offers extended usage limits. This flexible structure allows you to select a plan that aligns with your workload and budget, making sure that the platform remains accessible to both casual users and professionals. Commitment to Privacy and Data Control Privacy remains a cornerstone of Ollama's platform. Conversations are not stored in the cloud, making sure that your data stays secure. The app emphasizes local storage options, giving you full control over your data without relying on external servers. These measures reflect Ollama's dedication to user privacy and data protection, making it a trusted choice for those who prioritize security in their AI interactions. Lowering Barriers to AI Interaction By reducing reliance on command-line tools, Ollama's latest update lowers the barrier to entry for AI model testing and usage. The platform is designed to cater to a diverse audience, including developers, researchers, and AI enthusiasts. Its straightforward yet powerful interface ensures that you can explore AI capabilities with ease and efficiency, regardless of your technical expertise. This accessibility makes Ollama an ideal choice for anyone looking to harness the potential of AI. Setting a New Standard for AI Accessibility This update represents a significant milestone in making AI interaction more accessible and user-centric. By combining a redesigned interface, advanced features, and robust privacy controls, Ollama continues to distinguish itself as a leading platform for AI model testing and interaction. Whether you are working with local models or using cloud-based systems, Ollama's latest enhancements deliver a seamless, secure, and efficient experience. These improvements set a new benchmark for how users can engage with AI, empowering individuals and organizations to unlock the full potential of artificial intelligence. Media Credit: Sam Witteveen Filed Under: AI, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
BBC News
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
'I rode Blackpool's Grand National rollercoaster 180 times last year'
After first watching his family ride Blackpool's historical Grand National rollercoaster on a childhood holiday when he was too young to ride it himself, Stephen Murphy said he became "fascinated" with the ride. Now aged 53, the lawyer and rollercoaster enthusiast from south London makes the 500-mile round trip to Blackpool's Pleasure Beach Resort several times a Murphy said the ride, built in 1935, was his favourite rollercoaster in the world - he rode it 180 times last year, including 37 times in one day. "If the day isn't too busy, I would ride the ride, get off, run around, and sometimes get straight back into the same seat and just keep going," he said. "I tend to stay in one of the hotels at [Pleasure Beach Resort]. I will spend the entirety of the opening hours in the park," he said he travelled all over the world to ride rollercoasters as a "nice change" from his job as a specialist film and television solicitor. But he said the Grand National ride, with its history and Art Deco design, held a special place in his heart. "It's very stylish and classy right from the very beginning," Mr Murphy said. "I think it's interesting that you can't see really what you're letting yourself in for, so that makes it good fun because often you'll be riding with people who have no idea what they're about to see." The Grand National is also the only remaining twin-track racing coaster in Europe which runs on a Mobius loop, meaning the trains switch sides as they race each other. "It's got all the basic constituents of what makes a really good rollercoaster - it's got the pace, it's got the speed, the fun," Mr Murphy said. "It's not the highest, fastest or the longest by any stretch of the imagination, but it sort of proves that you don't need any of that." Mr Murphy said for thrill-seekers like himself, it was important to get the best possible seat on the ride. "To get the maximum negative G-force, when you get your tummy going up into your mouth, you want to be sitting at the back of the ride," he said. "That's where you get the most airtime and that, in some ways, is the most exciting place to be." Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.
Motor 1
14-06-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Is The BMW M2 Still the Best M Car? Video Review
There's a lot to be said for a do-everything car. A one-car solution. Scores of enthusiasts all want their daily driver to also be a track car, and a drift car, and a grocery getter, and a road tripper. Very few cars can actually fulfill this mandate, but one gets very close: The updated 473-horsepower 2025 BMW M2. It's the enthusiast darling. Uncorrupted by hybridity and all-wheel drive, the M2 is the simplest, most barebones, and cheapest M car you can buy. And I wanted to see if it was the true one-car enthusiast solution, so I reviewed a manual one for our newest video on the Motor1 YouTube channel. For 2025, the M2 got some updates , most notably a 20-horsepower bump, optional silver wheels, and nine new colors. The interior is now unified with the M3, which has new air vents and ambient lighting, and you get the excellent iDrive 8.5. Otherwise, it is business as usual inside the M2, which is it say it feels like an M3 . At the time of filming, the 2025 M2's base price was $66,375, but the tariffs have bumped that price to $69,375. Still, it's almost $10,000 cheaper than an M3 with identical hardware, making it a relative bargain. As far as how it drives and what it's like to live with, you'll just have to watch our video. It's an incredible performance bargain. But is it the perfect one-car solution? More on the M2 2026 BMW M2 CS Revealed: More Power, Less Weight, and Rear-Drive Only BMW's New M2 Race Car Only Has Four Cylinders Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
