News Roundup: Ford Ranger Raptor, New Porsche RS, More

New Ranger

Ford has just launched the new Ranger pickup for North America. The brand's midsizer is wider and longer. It also offers a new 315 hp 2.7L V6 on top of the carryover 270 hp 2.3L four-cylinder. Despite the changes, and a new frame, max towing and payload are nearly the same at 7,500 and 1,805 pounds, respectively. Instead, Ford is leaning on more towing tech including 360-degree cameras and available Pro Trailer Backup Assist to make towing easier. Getting into the bed is also easier thanks to a new integrated step, while the bed can now handle a sheet of plywood between the wheel arches. In-cabin changes include wireless charging, larger centre console and door pockets, and improved folding rear seats to give owners more space for bits and bobs.

Ford also has a new Ranger Raptor, adding its top-shelf off-road trim to the lineup for the first time. Ranger Raptor includes long-travel Fox live valve shocks, a 405 hp 3.0L V6, locking differentials, and a giant Ford-lettered grille. Orders for the new Ranger open later this month. Expect more details and pricing in a few months.

718 Spyder RS will offer breathtaking performance



Porsche's 2024 718 Spyder RS is the fastest open-top 718 model yet. The RS gets a 493 hp flat-six and is lighter and lower than the standard 718. Think of it as the open-roof version of the 718 Cayman GT4 RS and you've got the idea. It will only be offered with Porsche's seven-speed PDK automatic and should hit 100 km/h in just over three seconds. Active suspension management and a mechanical limited-slip differential are standard. It also has centre-lock wheels and ball joints in place of bushings for suspension mounting, though the suspension is slightly softer than the hard-top GT4 RS. Which makes sense for an open-air car. RS means fabric door straps and a manual top. Carbon fibre parts will be offered to help trim weight even more. Expect the model on the road later this year.

New Lexus models



Lexus is getting two new models ready, one of which will be a completely new segment for the brand. That new one is the 2024 Lexus TX. A Lexus version of the Toyota Grand Highlander, this is a full-size three-row crossover. Lexus hasn't played in this segment before, instead, it has the smaller three-row RX L and the body-on-frame LX. This one should be a competitor to the likes of the Cadillac XT6 and Lincoln Aviator as well as BMW's X7. The second is the latest version of the Lexus GX. This off-roader has historically been related to the Toyota 4Runner and Tacoma, and with those models being replaced soon, the GX is also due. All we've seen so far is an aggressive peek at a headlight and a new hood.

Volvo EX30 teaser



Volvo is also teasing a new electric crossover. The EX30 is set for a full reveal on June 7th, and we don't know much other than that it will be small. Does small mean below the XC40 and C40 Recharge models or will it be a replacement for those two? We'll wait and see. Both 40-model EVs are quite new, suggesting they would stick around, but fitting a smaller model under those could be tough in the Canadian marketplace.

Toyota to introduce 10 new EVs by 2026

Toyota might be behind in EVs at the moment, but its latest announcement shows that the car company plans on catching up in a hurry. The company talked about a three-row electric vehicle during its annual financial briefing this month, part of plans to sell 1.5 million EVs per year by 2026. The model is set to be built in the U.S., with battery packs made in North Carolina. It will be one of 10 new EVs the automaker plans to debut by 2026, with those new models offering much more electric range than its current EVs. Toyota said we can expect double the range of its current line. To go with it, a Lexus EV was teased, with an incredibly sleek shape and plenty of sharp angles.