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Score This Super-Rare Mazdaspeed AZ-1 for Less Than a New Miata

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The entire decade of the 1990s is now at least 25 years in the past, giving U.S. enthusiasts unprecedented access to JDM machinery from performance cars to quintessentially Japanese kei cars. This recent import is a bit of both.

On consignment at New Hampshire-based Northeast Auto Imports, this Mazdaspeed Autozam AZ-1 is part of the sub genre of kei sports cars. But it’s rarer than other such imports one might consider, such as a Suzuki Cappuccino or Honda Beat, or even a standard Autozam AZ-1. Because like other Mazda models, the Mazdaspeed version has a little something extra.

Northeast Auto Imports via Facebook

Northeast Auto Imports via Facebook

Northeast Auto Imports via Facebook

Northeast Auto Imports via Facebook

The AZ-1 is already an irresistible bundle of cuteness thanks to its mini-supercar looks. Those looks actually came from Suzuki, which got what would eventually become the AZ-1 rolling with a pair of concepts unveiled in the 1980s. Suzuki opted to build the Cappuccino instead, so the AZ-1 was transferred to Mazda, which completed development and sold the car under its Japanese-market Autozam sub-brand.

Autozam sales lasted from 1992 to 1994, with 4,500 of the adorable mid-engine kei cars sold during that time (including 531 rebadged as the Suzuki Cara). Of that total, about 150 Mazdaspeed versions were made. These had a body kit with a large hood scoop and tall rear wing, as well as coilover suspension and a limited-slip differential. These were mostly parts that were available a la carte from Mazdaspeed, which might be why relatively few buyers went for this upgrade.

Northeast Auto Imports via Facebook

Northeast Auto Imports via Facebook

Northeast Auto Imports via Facebook

Northeast Auto Imports via Facebook

A Mazdaspeed air filter and exhaust system were also part of the package, but it’s unclear if they contributed any meaningful performance improvements. It may have that doorstop shape and gullwing doors, but the AZ-1 is still very much a kei car. In keeping with the rules for that class, its Suzuki-sourced turbocharged three-cylinder engine displaces just 657 cc and develops just 63 horsepower. You do at least get a five-speed manual transmission, and you’ll look awesome stepping out of the car through those open roof-hinged doors.

The seller is asking $26,500 for this 60,000-mile example. For context, a Mazdaspeed AZ-1 with 86,000 miles sold for $27,250 on Bring a Trailer in 2023, while a 98,000-mile example sold for just $18,100 on the site in 2024. But this lower-mileage car still costs less than a new Miata. And while the federal government likely won’t legalize kei cars anytime soon, more states are moving in that direction.

Stephen has always been passionate about cars, and managed to turn that passion into a career as a freelance automotive journalist. When he’s not handling weekend coverage for The Drive, you can find him looking for a new book to read.

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June 1, 2026
Isuzu Ute Australia ups the MU-X servicing ante

ISUZU Ute Australia (IUA) has launched a new customer incentive aimed at easing ownership costs, offering three years of free scheduled servicing across the entire MU-X range as Australian households continue to grapple with elevated living expenses and higher interest rates.

Available from 1 June to 31 July 2026, the promotion applies to all eligible new 25.5MY MU-X purchases, including both 2.2-litre and 3.0-litre variants as well as the recently introduced Tour Mate special edition.

The offer covers the vehicle’s first three scheduled services, up to 36 months or 45,000km, providing what IUA says is greater certainty around ownership costs during a period of ongoing economic pressure.

Isuzu Ute Australia managing director Junta Matsui said the initiative recognises the financial challenges facing many Australian families.

“While global issues continue to pressure everyday cost of living, IUA understands that it’s increasingly difficult for many Australians to manage the ongoing costs of their vehicle,” he said.

“Complementing IUA’s comprehensive six-year/150,000km warranty, this offer will give buyers more certainty when anticipating life with one of Australia’s most respected cars.”

The promotion follows another strong year for the MU-X, which remained one of Australia’s best-selling SUVs in 2025.

The seven-seat wagon finished inside the national top 20 sales charts and ranked third in the highly competitive Large SUV under $80,000 segment, continuing its reputation as a strong value alternative to rivals such as the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Everest, and (remaining stocks of the) Mitsubishi Pajero Sport.

IUA says buyers continue to be attracted by the MU-X’s combination of seven-seat practicality, proven diesel powertrains, towing capability, off-road credentials, strong resale values, and reputation for reliability.

The free servicing offer reflects a growing trend among manufacturers to focus on ownership costs rather than headline discounts.

With vehicle prices remaining elevated and interest rates still affecting household budgets, servicing packages, extended warranties, and capped-price maintenance programs have become increasingly important sales tools.

For MU-X buyers, the offer now combines with a six-year/150,000km warranty, up to seven years roadside assistance, a capped-price servicing program, and three years free scheduled servicing to create one of the more comprehensive ownership packages in the segment.

The promotion is available to private buyers, ABN holders, and business fleet customers.

It excludes demonstrator vehicles and applies only to eligible new 25.5MY MU-X purchases delivered during the campaign period.

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June 1, 2026
Bingo E2 First Look: The Tiny EV You Buy and Never Drive

Owning an electric vehicle has plenty of upsides for business owners, a key one being lower maintenance and operating costs. The catch, of course, is charging, which keeps your vehicles off the road. DC fast chargers keep getting better and charge times have dropped from around 40 minutes to less than 30 in newer EVs, but what if you didn’t have to plug in an EV every time it needed to be recharged?

That is the pitch behind Bingo Technologies. Founded by a key executive behind Mophie, a company focused on mobile device power, Bingo is the latest EV maker to explore battery swapping as a way around charging downtime. Its answer is the E2 microcar, which pairs swappable batteries with a permanent rechargeable pack rather than replacing it entirely.

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You can buy one, but you will not be driving it in the U.S. In fact, the whole point of the E2 is that you do not drive it at all, anywhere. The vehicle is designed to earn money for you while someone else uses it, though it is not autonomous.

The Bingo E2 is meant to be an investment in a ride-hailing vehicle for developing markets such as Kenya and South Africa. Buyers pay the full $12,000 MSRP including a refundable $99 deposit, and the car is then opened to a pool of licensed, insured, and Bingo-vetted ride-hailing operators who lease or rent vehicles for their ride-hailing businesses.

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Why There’s a Need for Bingo and the E2

According to Bingo, the model makes sense for EV drivers in places like Nairobi, Kenya, where fuel and vehicle rental costs can crush profits. The company says the average driver may not break even despite working up to 14 hours a day.

It is not for lack of demand. Nairobi sees roughly 500,000 rides per day, according to Bingo. But soaring fuel prices have eaten even further into drivers’ earnings.

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The EV You Don’t Have to Charge if You Don’t Want To

Charging infrastructure in many of these countries is still developing, but Bingo drivers may not need to rely on DC fast charging or even AC charging very often. The E2’s party trick is its battery setup: a 31-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery mounted under the floor, plus four replaceable nickel cobalt manganese (NMC) battery modules under the rear seat that add another 13-kWh of capacity.

When those modules run low, drivers can swap them at a Bingo station for fresh ones. The process appears simple enough. The rear seat bottom flips forward, a small panel held by four bolts and two spring clips is raised, and the high-voltage cables are disconnected with twist locks from inside the vehicle.

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Bingo says the swap takes just two minutes, which could keep drivers on the road longer and earning more for both themselves and the vehicle owner. If needed, or if a driver simply prefers to, the 31-kWh main battery can still be charged like any other EV. Bingo says it can go from 20 to 80 percent in about an hour on a DC fast charger.

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June 1, 2026
Residual Value And How to Calculate It
Leasing a car can be a daunting process, whether you’re after a super economical and affordable Toyota Camry, or want something snazzier like a BMW 3 Series. There are a lot of factors that can play into what sort of deal you get, and ultimately how much money you are putting down each month. While some despise leasing, as the car isn’t yours when your lease period is finished, others love the ability to jump into a new car every few years, getting the latest designs and technology, and always having a valid warranty.

If you have ever leased a car or have done any research on the topic, then you will have heard the phrase “residual value” thrown around by the sales or finance department. It is a key part of any lease deal, and you should be aware of what it means before going to negotiate. In this article, we will look at what residual value is, how to calculate it, and what affects it.

Understanding Exactly What Residual Value Is

Ford Car Buying. Car Sales
Ford

Residual value is the overall worth of a car at the end of the lease, or the price you’ll pay to buy it at the end of the lease period if that is something you’re interested in. Leasing a car is different from renting one in that the lease period is usually longer and your monthly payments go toward the expense of the vehicle’s depreciation. You may hear of businesses or insurance company rental cars that are on a long-term rental also referred to as a lease, but that is different to the regular lease a private individual signs at a dealership, and will not be covered here.

Salvageable or residual value is comparable to the worth of a car after depreciation or the gradual decline in value. The residual value of a car is often established by the dealership or leasing firm and remains constant, whereas the resale value of a car is subject to market circumstances. A car’s resale value is determined by a number of factors, including the time of year.

Is Residual Value The Same As Resale Value?

These two terms, while similar on the surface, are not the same but can affect one another.

Residual value is the agreed-upon value that the automaker or lease firm thinks the vehicle will be worth when your lease period is finished, and it’s time to hand back the keys. Resale value is the real value of the car at any given time.

Since resale value as a figure fluctuates, a car might have a poorer resale value than expected and this can affect both the lessor and the company leasing the vehicle. But this can work both ways, as a car that garners a particularly good reputation may be worth more after the lease period, and you could choose to buy it at the lower agreed-upon residual value that cannot change.

But if the resale value is lower than expected of a given model, it can hurt the automaker or lease firm. Nissan has called out its failure to calculate correct residual values as a big contributor to recent losses in the company’s books, with many cars being worth less than expected when the leases were complete.

What Factors Determine Residual Value?

Car Dealership Stock Photo
Pexels

The first and main factor is the state of the economy. A car’s residual value may rise somewhat during periods of economic development or boom, and may decline during recessions when fewer people buy cars. Many individuals may find leasing a car more attractive than buying a new one due to shifting economic conditions, which might have a big impact on a car’s residual value as demand increases. A car’s value might also be negatively impacted by other factors, like rising petrol costs for SUVs or performance cars, or tax credit changes like with most EVs.

As we mentioned in the previous section, residual value may also be calculated using the car’s resale value. Because they undergo less depreciation, cars with greater resale prices may also have higher residual values. Brands like Lexus or Honda, or specific models like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which are hot in the market, will have a greater resale value used, giving them better residuals. A sort of offshoot from this is model age. If a car has been on the market for some time, and has become a little stale, or is not necessarily the best in class anymore, companies might offer better lease deals to keep units moving.

The last factor is reliability ratings. Lease companies might calculate a car’s residual value based on how well it performs over time. Generally speaking, a car with a higher rating is less likely to break down and require expensive repairs. A car with a lower rating may be more likely to require repairs. Again, Asian brands do well in this regard, while companies with known reliability issues like Jaguar or Masirati might struggle to move units, meaning a better lease deal.

Calculating Residual Value

new car buy lease finance
Antoni Shkraba Studio / Pexels

If you want to figure out your monthly auto lease payments and prevent spending more than you can afford, knowing how to calculate residual value is crucial. You may be aware that an automobile depreciates more the longer you drive it, but in order to get its precise residual value, you must multiply the vehicle’s manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) by the residual value percentage rate. Here is an example:
- You walk into a dealership, and sign a lease for a three-year lease on a vehicle worth $30,000.
- At the end of your lease, the expected resale value of the vehicle comes to $15,000.
- This means that during your lease the vehicle will have lost 50% of its value.
- Consequently, the $15,000 lost will be spread across your monthly lease payments.
Examining the lease agreement is the easiest way to get the residual value percentage rate. You can ask the lessor to supply this amount if it is not included in the agreement. There may not be a residual value for older vehicles with lower resale prices. The market worth of the car for the term and the necessary miles are usually the first things used by leasing companies to determine residual values. Most vehicles are about 60% of their original MSRPs at the end of the lease agreement.

Benefits Of A Higher Residual Value

budget money car lease finance
Tima Miroshnichenko / Pexels

You are effectively paying for less depreciation if a car is anticipated to keep most of its residual value at the end of the lease. Your monthly payments will be more reasonable as a direct result of this. A car with good residuals is also generally easier to roll into a new lease. This means you can move to the same or higher class of car instead of overpaying for a car that will have a low residual value by the end of the lease.

For leasing companies, a better residual value huge deal as it means they won’t lose money. If a car tanks in value and its residual value is lowered, this means the companies will end with a loss.

How Knowing The Residual Value Will benefit You When Leasing A Car?

Ford Dealership Offering Employee Pricing Amid Tariffs
Ford

By staying informed on market trends, car resale values, and the economy, you should be able to find great deals out there for all sorts of cars. Some have even made a sport out of getting as perfect a lease as possible with forums on sites like Leasehackr having people post their tips and tricks. If you stick to reliable, mainstream brands that have good resale value, then you can get a great car, worry free. On the flip side, if you truly want a dirt cheap lease, watch out for older models that are coming to the end of their run. These cars might have poorer residual value, but the OEM incentives may be too good to be true.

Sources: CarAndDriver, NationaVehicleSolutions.co.uk; USNews; VelocityAssetFinance; Vanarama
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June 1, 2026
Ford Everest and Ranger Reviews | Overview

Overview

IF IT ain’t broke, don’t fix it, or so the saying goes. Yet late last year, Ford announced a significant shake-up for its winning Ranger ute and Everest SUV line-ups for MY2026.5, the former being Australia’s best-selling model for three consecutive years.

The 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine choice was discontinued globally, with the six-speed automatic transmission joining it on the chopping block.

Save for the petrol twin-turbo V6 beneath the bonnet of the Ranger Raptor and the Hybrid model’s PHEV powertrain, this leaves two engine choices for the main Ranger and Everest line-ups for 2026 and beyond, with all variants of both models now equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Now with an upgraded timing chain and fuel injection system, the 2.0-litre single-turbo diesel four cylinder – which still produces 125kW and 405Nm – has become the base engine option for the Everest, while being available in both 4×2 and 4×4 configurations in the Ranger.

The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 – which is now available in a wider range of variants including the base trim levels of both the Ranger and Everest – meanwhile continues to make 184kW and 600Nm.

But the removal of the Bi-Turbo isn’t the only change made to each line-up for 2026…

As mentioned, there’s now greater V6 availability, but plethora changes also include new variants and revised trim levels.

For instance, the Ranger XL and XLT cab-chassis models’ list of standard safety features has been updated and includes a digital reversing camera, reverse brake assist, rear parking sensors, a blind-spot information system with rear cross-traffic alert, and a lane change warning aid.

Meanwhile, the XL receives dual-zone climate control as standard, XLT Double Cab Chassis models benefit from heavy duty suspension as standard, while the Wildtrak receives a 10-speaker sound system, and Matrix LED headlights.

The off-road-focused Tremor model has also returned for a limited time, now available in 3.0-litre V6 guise as opposed to the Bi-Turbo engine offered previously.

Another limited edition model, the Wolftrak, has also joined the line-up, positioned below the aforementioned Tremor, arriving with 17-inch black alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres, two front tow hooks, green exterior accents and decals, a honeycomb grille, pro-trailer backup assist, a 360-degree camera with trailer guidance, Mud/Ruts and Sand off-road driving modes, and vinyl seats with ‘Wolftrak’ embroidery, while also being available in a unique ‘Traction Green’ paint colour.

Meanwhile, for the Ford Everest, a new entry-level Active model has replaced the Ambient and Trend variants, with standard features including 18-inch alloy wheels, leather accented seats, privacy glass, tyre pressure monitoring, seating for five (with seven seats available as a $1350 optional extra), and LED headlights.

A 360-degree camera is now available for the Sport and Tremor models, while the latter offers buyers the option to remove the third row of seats at no additional cost.

All variants of both the Ranger and the Everest come equipped with a 12.0-inch touchscreen, compared to the 10.1-inch unit previously used for lower-spec model grades.

For the 2026 Ranger, prices span from $37,130 plus on-road costs for the entry-level 4×2 Single Cab-Chassis model, all the way to $90,690 + ORCs for the Raptor variant.

The cheapest V6 Ranger is available in 4×4 XL Single Cab-Chassis guise, priced at $52,100 plus on-road costs, compared with the equivalent outgoing Bi-Turbo model’s $48,230 + ORC asking price.

Previously, the cheapest V6 Ranger available was the XLT Double Cab, priced at $67,190 + ORCs.

Everest prices meanwhile range from $58,990 + ORCs for the entry-level Active in 2.0-litre guise, while the flagship Platinum V6 comes in at $83,490 + ORCs.

Compared with the outgoing entry-level Bi-Turbo, the new base model Everest is $500 cheaper, while the Platinum V6 is some $500 more expensive than before. However, if you want a base-model V6, you’ll be paying $66,990 + ORCs.

The previous cheapest Everest V6 model was the Sport variant, wearing a price tag of $75,990 + ORCS.

For more specifics on the full list of changes made to the Ranger and Everest you can visit our full pricing and specifications piece here.

A full-size spare is standard across the Everest and non-hybrid Ranger line-up. For the PHEV Ranger variants, it is available as a no-cost optional extra for all variants.

Servicing pricing and intervals for the updated Ranger and Everest is yet to be officially published by the brand.

Both the Ranger and Everest are offered with 12 months of roadside assist, extended for another year with general service completed at a participating dealer for up until the vehicle reaches seven years of age.

Both models are backed by a five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.

Driving Impressions

At the Australian media launch of the updated Ranger and Everest, GoAuto drove the Everest Active 2.0-litre and the Everest Sport V6 on the road, while also having the opportunity to sample several additional variants of both the Ranger and Everest at the Blue Oval’s You Yangs Proving Ground.

The 2.0-litre Active model largely delivers what we’ve come to expect from the Everest’s driving experience.

Its ride is comfortable and surprisingly refined, especially for a ute-based SUV and despite its size and weight, its body control is solid too. The steering isn’t brimming with feedback, but it’s appropriate weighting makes up for this.

The 12.0-inch infotainment touchscreen – which is now standard on all variants of both the Everest and Ranger – is slick and easy to navigate, and does particularly well to not overload its users with too many options and sub-menus.

Combined with the cabin’s physical controls – including those for the HVAC, media volume and, and four-wheel drive modes – make the Everest (and indeed the Ranger) easy to interact with.

However, the standard 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster looks a little dated. The 12.4-inch unit found in Platinum variants of the Ranger and Everest appears much more modern.

When it comes to interior trim, the base-model Everest’s cabin feels more utilitarian than up-market. The cabin plastics feel a bit scratchy. If it’s a premium interior you’re after, the Platinum models have you covered, abound with plush leather, and wood-looking and metal touchpoints.

The base model Everest feels like quite the solid package, right up until the moment you put your foot down. As 125kW/405Nm attempts to shift a vehicle weighing in at over 2200kg, the entry-level Everest feels sluggish.

The V6 is simply a much better engine for a car of this type. It accelerates the Everest quicker and – in situations like overtaking – it provides ample grunt in a timely fashion.

Our road drives in the Everest Active 2.0-litre and the Sport differed in nature, both in terms of length and the roads on which we were driving.

We drove the Active model from Essendon Fields in Melbourne to a truck-stop just outside Rockbank, a journey which comprised stop/start urban traffic with a short motorway stint, during which it returned 8.9 litres per 100km.

Our journey from the You Yangs Proving Ground to Melbourne airport – much of which was motorway driving – saw the Sport V6 return a fuel number of 8.3L/100km.

As for the Ranger, a quick spin over a bumpy You Yangs testing track in the Platinum V6 revealed confirmed that Ford’s ute best-seller has retained the exceptional ride quality we’re come to expect from the current generation model.

We also had the opportunity to try the new Wolftrak model on You Yang’s off-road course. While lacking some of the off-road kit of the Tremor – such as the Trail Control feature, General Grabber AT3 Tyres, and Rock Crawl mode – the Wolftrak proved itself immensely capable when the going gets tough, tackling the course with no undue issues to report.

The Wolftrak’s unique aesthetic attributes and Mud/Ruts and Sand driving modes also allow buyers to get into something with off-road, rugged appeal without necessarily needing to splash the extra cash for the Tremor.

Ultimately, the Ranger and Everest update brings with it more standard equipment, greater V6 availability, and new variants such as the Ranger Wolftrak, all of which will likely appeal to many buyers.

However, the 2.0-litre single turbo doesn’t quite feel up to scratch for the Everest, undoubtedly leaving a sour taste in the mouths of buyers who may previously have sought after a Bi-Turbo example.

In the case of the Everest at least, the V6 is almost unquestionably the one to have if you splash the extra cash.

It’s important to note that we’re yet to witness the full extent of the Everest and Ranger’s changes in the real world. For instance, we’re yet to test a non-Super Duty V6 Ranger in cab-chassis form…

Overall, however, the post-update Ranger and Everest (in the case of the V6 models anyway) continues to deliver what buyers have come to expect from these two, highly popular models, proving Ford’s ladder frame duo has what it takes to compete with Australia’s top sellers.

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May 31, 2026
MG launches new small electric SUV, MG4X at $A20,500

A new small electric SUV from MG, called the 4X, featuring the company’s “liquid-solid state battery”, was teased last month by the brand in China.

This model has now been officially launched in the Chinese market, with prices starting at the equivalent of $A20,500.

On MG’s parent company’s Weibo page, it said: “The MG 4X is officially launched, with a limited-time subsidised price. Unlock quality travel for the whole family!”.

The company has previously shared multiple images of the SUV, revealing details of the car that could very well head to international markets in the near future.

Image: SAIC via Weibo

The outside of the new car shares the design language with the company’s MG4 Urban hatch and MG S5 electric SUV, both of which are available in Australia.

With additional ride height and space in this segment, this could be quite popular with families wanting to go electric for the first time.

The interior also shares a layout with the MG S5, which, of course, was carried over to the MG4 Urban, which launched locally in April 2026.

There is a large screen in the centre, as well as physical buttons for controls underneath the screen. However, the number of physical buttons has been reduced compared to earlier MG electric models, giving the interior a minimal look and ease of use when on the go.

There is also a 10.25-inch screen behind the steering wheel showcasing critical driving information.

Image: SAIC via Weibo

The vehicle is longer than the MG4 Urban, coming in at 4.5 metres in length, and g- iven the pricing in China – it is a very compelling feature-packed EV.

This model also comes with a new battery pack, which the company calls a “liquid-solid state battery”, with a capacity of 54 kWh and is expected to deliver up to 510 km of CLTC range, which is likely to be around 400 km on the WLTP cycle.

A larger CATL-supplied battery pack is also available, which bumps the capacity to 64 kWh, adding around 100 km to the car’s range.

The MG 4X comes with a single rear-mounted motor delivering up to 125 kW of power, or a larger 150 kW motor in the top-spec variant. This, of course, is different from the Urban EV hatch, which has a front-wheel drive setup.

The new setup should help this small SUV reach 100 km/h from 0 in around 8 seconds, making it slightly slower than the currently available rear-drive MG4 electric hatchback.

This new MG is now available for sale in China, with exports likely to begin late in 2026. If the price falls below $35,000 in Australia, it could be quite a seller, competing with models such as the BYD Atto 2 or the upcoming GWM Ora 5 and Leapmotor B10.

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May 31, 2026
The Honda 0 Series Saloon Would’ve Been a Better Ferrari Design Than the Luce

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The Ferrari Luce is finally here, and the Internet is not taking it well. While there were some hints, nobody seems to have been prepared for the unorthodox design of Ferrari’s first EV. The Luce has drawn the ire of ordinary commenters and industry bigwigs alike, a backlash that can best be described as a godsend to Jaguar’s PR department. But could the Luce have looked any different? Yes, if Ferrari had the imagination of Honda.

The Honda 0 Saloon—the automaker’s now-canceled EV flagship—would’ve been a better Ferrari EV than the Luce. Its design does everything the Luce’s should have, but didn’t. So it’s in keeping with the disappointing vibe of the current moment that we’re getting the Luce (albeit with a base price reported at $640,000) while Honda lights piles of money on fire, Joker-style, in its desperation to back away from EVs in North America.

Honda

The four-door body style would have likely still offended some purists, but the 0 Saloon had the classic wedge shape of supercars like the Ferrari F40 and Testarossa. Granted, the decision to collaborate with Jony Ive—the industrial designer known for his work with Apple—indicated that Ferrari was looking for a clean break with the past. But the 0 Saloon is genuinely something that hasn’t been seen before, which can’t be said of the Luce.

While it’s packed with interesting details like reinvented windshield wipers, the Luce’s overall shape is that of a generic crossover with surfaces smoothed over for the wind tunnel. We’ve seen this before with the Mercedes-Benz EQ SUVs and Lucid Gravity as well as, with an added big grille and gullwing doors, the BMW iX and Tesla Model X, respectively. Not to mention startups like Faraday Future and Byton. Like the three-box sedan, this shape has been repeated because it works. But it’s reasonable to expect more from the first electric Ferrari.

Honda

The Luce is a disappointment because Ferrari played it safe. Its design innovation is in details that need explaining, like the setup for a bad joke, rather than the overall impact of seeing the entire car. The 0 Saloon, on the other hand, generated a spark of emotion even in the cold, dark void of this jaded writer’s heart. When Honda showed the concept version at CES 2024, it was the good kind of shocking. And when Honda showed a more-refined “prototype” at CES 2025 that the automaker claimed was close to production-ready, it seemed too good to be true. As things turned out, it was.

The Honda design isn’t better in all respects. The Luce’s interior looks a lot more appealing, and the user interface should be more functional than the 0 Saloon’s screen-heavy setup. And the Luce does have Ferrari-worthy specs (although key figures are close to the much cheaper Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric). But when it comes to the exterior styling, Ferrari and Ive failed to see the forest for the trees, becoming fixated on the EV-ness of the thing. Honda’s designers simply made an interesting, sharp-looking car.

Stephen has always been passionate about cars, and managed to turn that passion into a career as a freelance automotive journalist. When he’s not handling weekend coverage for The Drive, you can find him looking for a new book to read.

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May 31, 2026
Mazda Had A Luce Long Before Ferrari, And It Wants Everyone To Know

Mazda VS. Ferrari

In case you missed the news, Mazda and Ferrari are locked in a trademark battle right now. It’s over the use of the name Luce, which Mazda had used first. However, Ferrari claims to own the rights to that nameplate worldwide, but the folks from Hiroshima aren’t giving up without a fight. Mazda still has a claim over Luce in Japan, meaning Ferrari will have to change the name of its EV if Mazda chooses not to budge. So far, it’s looking that way.

Following the reveal of the Italian Luce, the builders of the Japanese Luce have been doubling down on the trolling efforts. Recently, Mazda showed a photo of its first executive sedan on its socials with the caption “Did anyone say Luce?” On top of that, the company published a short comic highlighting its connection to Italian design. So far, Ferrari hasn’t made any rebuttals as it’s still busy defending itself.

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The Car That Started It

The Luce was Mazda’s first foray into the executive car market. It then served as the company’s flagship model from 1966 to 1991. Five generations of the car were made over 25 years. Today, the model holds a special place in Mazda’s history, as it laid the foundation and set the direction of the company, never wavering in its focus on being seen as an innovative and daring automaker.

America did get the Luce, but it came under a different name. It was simply called the 1800, sold in extremely limited numbers, and rarer than hen’s teeth these days. It’s a shame that only a few made it stateside, but then again, it was the ’60s, and the war was still relatively fresh on everyone’s minds. Later export versions of the Luce were called 929.

Mazda

The Mazda-Italy Connection

Mazda’s claim of being inspired by Italian design wasn’t just marketing fluff. It all started in 1960 when Hieyuki Miyakawa and Marisa Bassano crossed paths at the Turin Motor Show. Miyakawa and Bassano, who would later marry, effectively held the key to collaboration between Bertone and Mazda on new designs. The two people they brought together? Tsuneji Matsuda, the president of Mazda at the time, and Giorgetto Giugiaro, a young designer working for Bertone at the time.

The result? Two cars that fused Japanese and Italian design philosophies. The first was the Familia of 1963, and three years later, the Luce in 1966. Giugiaro wasn’t done yet, though, as he followed it up with the Luce Rotary Coupe in 1969. While not penned by the Italian designer, we can see European influences on models such as the Carol kei car and the Cosmo sports coupe.

Mazda

Design Analysis

At first glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking the Luce sedan came from Fiat, Alfa Romeo, or Lancia. The lights and grille are housed in a single shroud, while the long hood lends it a more serious presence. Its tall glasshouse is reminiscent of Italian sedans from the ’60s, while the kink in the rear window is a page out of a certain German automaker based in Munich. At the rear, a simple set of taillights adorns its fascia, and that wraparound windshield is something bean counters would immediately reject today. There was even a wagon version that looked just as good as the sedan.

But it was the Rotary Coupe that looked fantastic. In stark contrast to the sedan, it was lower and sleeker, sharing very little with its more practical sibling. The pillarless doors gave an uninterrupted view out the sides, and all in all, whispered elegance. We’ll admit that we see some shades of the Lancia 2000 Coupe and the Beta Coupe in the two-door Luce, but here’s the thing: The Mazda came first. It’s clean, simple, and unadorned with trinkets that take attention away from its overall design. In other words, it’s the exact opposite of the Ferrari Luce.

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May 31, 2026
Flood-Damaged Cars: How to Spot and Avoid Them

While some of us live in relatively calm areas, the number and severity of extreme weather events are growing across the country. That can bring a range of headaches for vehicle owners, especially in flood-prone regions, where it can be nearly impossible to prevent damage during a major rainstorm.

Flooding and water damage usually mean a total loss for owners, and the cars often end up in salvage yards. That said, many make it through the reconditioning process with varying degrees of care and success, so used-car buyers need to know what they’re looking for and how to spot water damage.

What Does Flood Damage Do to a Car?

The scope of flood damage depends on how deeply the vehicle was submerged. Some vehicles suffer light water intrusion in less-sensitive areas, such as the trunk, while others sustain catastrophic damage from water in the cabin and under-hood areas. Saltwater is especially damaging, as it speeds corrosion of sensitive electrical connections and other metal components.

How to Spot Flood Damage on the Vehicle’s Title and Paperwork

There are a number of things you can do to protect yourself against unintentionally purchasing a flood-damaged car before you see the vehicle in person. One of the best first steps is to check the vehicle history report. Experian’s AutoCheck and Carfax are two of the most popular history report services, and while they aren’t perfect, they frequently capture major damage incidents, such as flooding. In many cases, they also provide the car’s title status, which can help you determine whether it has experienced flooding or has other issues, such as collision damage or theft.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau also offers a VINCheck service, which is free to use and provides information on a vehicle’s title status. The program can show whether a car has been stolen or reported as having a salvage title by one of the NICB’s member insurance companies.

How to Check a Car for Flood Damage

1. Check the trunk

Look for water and debris in the trunk, including under the carpeting. A water line under the spare tire is a strong sign of flood damage.

2. Inspect carpeting

Feel the carpet for moisture and look underneath for fading, stains, and rust.

3. Investigate the engine bay

Check tight crevices for dried mud and debris, especially near the starter motor, power steering pump, and behind wiring harnesses.

4. Examine seat belts and upholstery

Look for water lines, stains, and discoloration that suggest prior soaking.

5. Sniff for musty or foul odors

If the cabin smells musty or foul, flood damage is possible.

6. Check headlights and taillights

Water inside housings or visible condensation is an immediate red flag.

7. Look under seats and dashboard

Search for rust on metal components in the center console or under the dashboard. Watch for mold and mildew odors.

8. Test electrical components

Test items like windshield wipers and air conditioning, and look for corrosion or abnormal wear.

9. See beneath the car

Inspect bolts, screws, brake discs, and other metal parts for caked debris, premature rust, and metal flaking, especially on newer vehicles.

Can You Repair a Flood-Damaged Car?

Almost anything is possible. The question becomes whether it’s worth the time, effort, and money involved. If your vehicle has been flooded, an insurance write-off is likely. The insurance company will sell the car as salvage at an auction, and some end up back on the road with rebuilt titles. Depending on state laws and the severity of the damage, you might be able to keep and repair the car, but it’s often best to walk away and let the insurance company deal with the fallout. That said, the decision-making process becomes more complicated with very expensive, rare, or exotic cars.

We’ll never advise you to buy a flood-damaged car, but for some people, it can make sense as a project or a complete rebuild in limited circumstances. If you’re considering one and don’t have significant mechanical knowledge, it’s best to have the vehicle inspected by a reputable mechanic before any money changes hands.

Title Washing and Title Fraud with Flood-Damaged Vehicles

Title Washing and Used-Car Fraud

What Is Title Washing?

Title washing is when a vehicle with a branded history, such as flood or total-loss damage, is moved to another state and retitled so the warning is reduced or missing.

How the Scam Works

Branding rules differ by jurisdiction. A seller can exploit those differences by moving paperwork across state lines and re-entering the car into the market as “cleaner” than it is.

Who Is Most at Risk

Buyers far from recent flood zones can be easier targets because flood history may seem unlikely locally, so red flags are often missed until expensive failures appear later.

Run a VIN History Check

Use an NMVTIS-approved provider and compare the report to what the seller claims. Also run NICB VINCheck to screen for theft/salvage insurance records.

Match Documents to the Car

Confirm the VIN on the dashboard, door label, and title all match exactly. Be cautious with out-of-state paperwork, recent title transfers, or missing maintenance history.

Before You Buy

Get an independent pre-purchase inspection and check for flood clues like unusual corrosion, silt in hidden areas, moisture lines, or musty odors. If details do not add up, walk away.

Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication. Renee Valdes contributed to the report.

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May 30, 2026
2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE Review — Updated With More Power And Tech

Published: November 17th, 2025

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May 30, 2026