TUNNING

Liberty Walk has joined the ranks of tuners that have already modified the Honda Civic Type R

In short, the kit is available in Standard and Widebody configurations. The Standard is available for $8,470 when made of fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP) and $13,860 when made of a mixture of FRP and carbon fiber. The Widebody kit in FRP configuration costs $11,000, while the carbon fiber version is $16,830.

Both kits include a modified front bumper with a redesigned lower grille and a new splitter. There is also an aggressive new hood with an air intake and a set of more pronounced side skirts. The Widebody version also includes a set of widened arches, which add 10 mm to the width. There is also a change at the rear, where a fixed wing stands out that rises slightly higher than the standard FL5-generation Type R model. A newly developed rear diffuser is located below, rounding off the more aggressive look.

These elements can be ordered individually or as part of a kit. For example, if you want just the rear wing, you can buy it for $1,430 in FRP or $1,930 in carbon fiber. Finally, black wheels are also available, priced at $3,784.

 

AUTONEWS

What will happen to the car engine if you run out of gas while driving?

It happens, it's not uncommon...Forget about your worries at work or in your family and you run out of fuel while driving. Can something happen to your car, or can there be major breakdowns?

Car manufacturers claim that their new models are designed so that there will be no problems if you run out of fuel. That is, there should be no engine failures. Despite this, do not wait for the tank to empty, because in that case impurities from the bottom of the tank will also be injected into the system. The fuel filter should take care of them, or prevent them from entering the engine, but it's better not to push your luck.

In older cars, if you run out of fuel, injectors and diesel fuel pumps may fail. In general, always react in time and drive to the nearest gas station.

Who hasn't experienced being behind the wheel and anxiously glancing at the fuel gauge as the needle hovers over empty? Whether it's due to forgetfulness or an effort to squeeze as many miles out of the tank as possible, running out of fuel doesn't do your engine any favors, and it can be detrimental to you as well. A while back, it was reported that a man was found dead after running out of gas in Death Valley. Even if you happen to be in a populated area with services nearby, when your vehicle becomes starved for fuel, it's hard on certain parts.

Gasoline isn't only instrumental in the combustion process, but it also serves to cool certain fuel system components. For instance, the fuel pump (which is responsible for moving gas from the tank to the engine) can start to heat up as you near empty. To function properly, the pump needs a consistent supply of gas. If that supply drops too low, the pump will start moving air instead, which can result in substantial damage.

Why you don’t want to run out of fuel...If you drive a vehicle that runs on petrol, draining your tank dry is bad news for a variety of reasons. Your car’s fuel pump uses fuel as a means of lubrication or cooling, so it can be damaged when there’s no fuel in the system. Your fuel pump will also suck up the last dregs from the very bottom of the tank, which is exactly where any sediment or debris (including, on older cars with metal tanks, rust particles) settle. If you’re lucky you might just end up with a clogged fuel filter, but you could damage the fuel pump.

If you drive a diesel, the dry-tank scenario is even more perilous. While the high-pressure direct-injection set-ups in today’s diesels help them deliver impressive performance and economy, they will not tolerate air getting into the system.

In addition to the risk of damaging your car’s diesel injection pump and fuel injectors – just the latter can cost hundreds of dollars or more each, and your engine has several of them – the whole system will need to be primed to remove all traces of air. That’s means more time (meaning money) in the workshop.

Your car has everything you need to avoid this elemental mistake. At the very least, you have a fuel gauge with a low-fuel warning light, and often a trip computer with a distance-to-empty function, too.

What to do if you run out of fuel...If you have missed all the warning signs and are running really low or out of fuel, there are a few things you should do.

If you drive a diesel, don’t squeeze the last drops out of the tank. If there’s no service station in sight, accept defeat and stop your car while the engine’s still going. Whatever inconvenience you suffer will be insignificant compared with the cost and hassle of letting it run totally dry.

If you have some warning of impending shutdown (such as a spluttering engine), try to move your vehicle to a safe position, well away from traffic. Switch on your hazard lights and, if your car has a warning triangle or some other reflective safety device, place it about 50 metres behind to give fellow motorists plenty of warning.

If you drive a petrol vehicle and have stopped in a familiar or busy area with known fuel supplies nearby, you can walk to a service station and purchase a jerry can that complies with Australian standards.

You will find safety instructions on how to correctly fill a jerry can near the service station bowser. It’s important to place the jerry can on the ground and keep one hand on it while filling to avoid generating static electricity. Also be careful to keep well away from any potential ignition sources and not overfill the can.

Then it’s just a matter of returning to your vehicle and filling your tank – or getting someone to fetch the fuel for you – and you should be on your way. That’s assuming you haven’t ended up with a clogged fuel filter or some other mechanical malady.

Otherwise – and especially if you drive a diesel or are anywhere unfamiliar or remote – you should stay with your vehicle and seek roadside assistance.

This scenario can become even worse if you're driving an older vehicle with many years of debris on the bottom of the fuel tank. As you may imagine, once the pump is desperate to suck up any fuel with a nearly empty tank, that bottom-dwelling sludge can get pulled up into the system and create a clog. According to Kelly Blue Book, to have the fuel pump replaced, you're looking at between $390 and $900, which is certainly not worth delaying a trip to the gas station.

Running out of gas causes the engine to stall immediately due to fuel starvation, but it can also cause severe damage to the fuel pump, which relies on gasoline for cooling and lubrication. The pump may overheat and fail, while the engine can suffer from running "lean," damaging components, and potentially clogging the fuel filter with sediment. 

Key consequences of running out of gas(below):

Fuel pump damage: Modern fuel pumps are inside the tank and cooled by fuel. Running dry can cause them to overheat, suck in air (cavitation), and burn out prematurely.

Engine stalling: The vehicle will stutter and lose power, leading to a complete shutdown.

Catalytic converter damage: If the engine struggles and misfires before stopping, unburned fuel can enter the exhaust, causing the catalytic converter to overheat.

Sediment clogging: Fuel pumps may pull sediment from the bottom of the tank, clogging the fuel filter and injectors.

Loss of power steering/braking: While the car can still stop, the steering wheel will become very stiff and braking will require more effort. 

Tips for prevention(below):

-Avoid letting the fuel level drop below a quarter tank.

-If the car dies, immediately turn off the ignition to prevent further damage to the electric fuel pump. 

 

AUTONEWS

GE9X: the largest jet engine in history delivering 134,000 pounds of thrust

The advancement of aeronautical engineering has reached a new level with the development of the GE9X engine, designed by GE Aerospace to power the Boeing 777X. With a diameter of 3.4 meters and a record thrust of approximately 134,000 pounds, the engine has become the largest ever installed on a commercial aircraft. The GE9X represents more than just an evolution in scale. It incorporates advanced materials and manufacturing technologies that redefine the limits of what is possible in modern aircraft engines. The design is the result of decades of development in aerodynamics, energy efficiency, and emissions reduction.

The most impressive fact about the GE9X is the size of its front fan. At 134 inches in diameter, it approaches the width of the fuselage of a Boeing 737, one of the most widely used aircraft in the world.

This giant fan is responsible for moving a massive amount of air, which increases the engine's efficiency. In modern turbofan engines, most of the thrust comes from the air passing around the core, not from direct combustion.

In addition, the GE9X achieved a thrust of 134,300 pounds in tests, setting a record recognized by the Guinness World Records. This power level allows large aircraft to operate more efficiently and with lower fuel consumption per passenger.

The 16 carbon fiber blades that redefine aeronautical engineering...One of the most relevant innovations of the GE9X is in the design of its blades. The engine uses only 16 carbon fiber composite blades, a significantly smaller number than its predecessor, the GE90, which used 22.

Despite being fewer in number, the GE9X blades are larger, lighter, and stronger. The use of composite materials reduces the overall weight of the engine while increasing its durability.

This combination results in superior performance, with better aerodynamic efficiency and less need for maintenance over time. 3D Printing and Advanced Manufacturing Inside the Engine

The GE9X also incorporates advanced manufacturing technologies, including the use of 3D printing in various internal components. These parts, produced by additive manufacturing, feature complex geometries that could not be obtained by traditional methods.

The use of this technology allows for a reduction in the number of components, simplifies assembly, and improves the engine's thermal and structural performance.

In addition, 3D printing contributes to weight reduction and increased efficiency, essential factors in a sector where every kilogram saved directly impacts fuel consumption.

More Power with Less Weight: The Efficiency of the GE9X...Despite being larger than its predecessor, the GE9X was designed to be lighter and more efficient. This was made possible by the use of advanced materials, such as composites and high-strength metal alloys.

The result is an engine capable of generating more thrust while consuming less fuel, representing a significant improvement over previous generations.

This efficiency is one of the main factors that make the GE9X a central piece in the commercial aviation emissions reduction strategy. Technology Fairs

The challenge of developing an engine larger than any other...Designing the largest jet engine in history was no simple task. The development of the GE9X involved extensive testing, advanced simulations, and the creation of new engineering solutions.

One of the main challenges was ensuring that the increase in size did not compromise reliability and safety. Each engine component was designed to withstand extreme conditions of temperature, pressure, and vibration.

In addition, the engine needed to be adapted to operate efficiently in different flight conditions, from takeoffs to long-duration cruises.

The Boeing 777X paradox: the engine was ready before the plane...One of the most curious aspects of the project is that the GE9X was certified before the Boeing 777X itself. While the engine progressed through tests and validations, the aircraft program faced significant delays.

The development of the 777X was delayed for years due to technical challenges, regulatory changes, and certification issues. This meant that the engine, designed specifically for the aircraft, was ready before it entered service.

This scenario illustrates the complexity of modern aeronautical projects, where different systems evolve at different paces.

The impact of the GE9X on commercial aviation...The GE9X represents a new generation of engines focused on efficiency, performance, and sustainability. Its ability to generate more thrust with lower fuel consumption contributes to reduced operating costs and emissions.

For airlines, this means greater range, lower cost per seat, and increased competitiveness on long-haul routes. For the industry as a whole, the engine symbolizes a technological advancement that can influence the development of future aircraft.

The aeronautical industry is one of the most demanding in terms of innovation. Small efficiency gains can represent billions in savings over time. In this context, the GE9X stands out as an example of how advances in materials, design, and manufacturing can completely transform a system.

The integration of technologies such as advanced composites and additive manufacturing shows the way for the future of aeronautical engineering.

The future of jet engines after the GE9X...The development of the GE9X opens the way for new possibilities in aviation. As the demand for efficiency and sustainability increases, even more advanced engines are expected to emerge.

Research in areas such as sustainable fuels, electrification, and new materials continues, indicating that the evolution of jet engines is far from over.

The GE9X, in this scenario, represents a milestone — not only for its size, but for the set of technologies it incorporates.

An engine that redefines the limits of modern engineering...The GE9X is not just the largest jet engine in history. It is the result of decades of technological evolution and a constant pursuit of efficiency and performance.

With dimensions approaching that of an airplane fuselage and record-breaking power, the engine symbolizes how far modern engineering can go. And even being a gigantic structure, it operates precisely and in a controlled manner, supporting flights that cross continents and connect the world.

For most passengers, the GE9X is just part of the plane. But behind this appearance lies one of the most complex machines ever built by humankind.

Its operation involves thousands of components working in perfect synchrony, transforming fuel into energy with impressive levels of efficiency. Ultimately, it is this combination of scale and precision that defines the GE9X as one of the greatest advances in modern aviation.

Autonews and Mundoquatrorodas

PORSCHE

Porsche wants to offer an automatic transmission that is…manual

Porsche has patented a gearbox that is as curious as it is strange. Simultaneously, it aims to please the most traditional drivers, who prefer manual gearboxes, as well as those who prefer the faster and more efficient dual-clutch automatic gearboxes. The decision to design this new gearbox was made public through patent registration, when the German manufacturer of the Volkswagen Group filed the registration.

Designing a gearbox that is simultaneously automatic and manual is more complex than it may seem at first glance. Obviously, this is not a gearbox like many already on the market, where the dual-clutch system ensures the automatic selection of different ratios, without driver intervention, so that in the next moment, if you want to engage in a more sporty driving experience, you can opt for manual use of the gearbox, selecting the ratios via the paddles next to the steering wheel or by operating the lever. In Porsche's case, the objective goes further. The brand intends to offer a gearbox in which the driver only needs to select Drive, Reverse, and Neutral if they want to move forward, backward, or put the car in neutral, with the driver also having the option of a second selector where the gears are distributed in an "H" pattern, selectable via the lever.

For most drivers, even those of sports cars, gearboxes need to be fast and precise, which leads more and more sports car users to opt for dual-clutch automatics. Perhaps for this reason, about 15 years ago Porsche decided to remove the six-speed manual gearboxes from its most representative model, the 911 GT3, making only the seven-speed PDK automatic available. The reaction from potential customers was immediate and very negative, which led Porsche to reverse course and reinstate the manual gearboxes. With this new gearbox, the German brand intends to please everyone, offering a two-in-one solution to suit all types of preferences.

The idea of ​​a gearbox that is simultaneously automatic and manual is not new, since back in 2022 the ever-surprising engineer Christian Koenigsegg, founder of the Swedish hypercar manufacturer bearing his name, produced two models equipped with this type of gearbox. We are referring to the Koenigsegg CC850 and Koenigsegg Chimera, both of which associate this innovative (and still unique) gearbox with engines with well over 1000 hp.

There is not much information about the gearbox that Porsche patented, but it will certainly be a bulky, heavy and expensive solution, three characteristics that customers who purchase Koenigsegg vehicles can easily accept (the CC850 is sold for 4.2 million euros and the Chimera for more than 9.2 million), but which buyers of Porsche models will have more difficulty accepting. To give you an idea of ​​the complexity, Koenigsegg's two-in-one gearbox has six individual clutches, gears distributed across three shafts, and a great deal of electronics and servo motors to provide a highly realistic feel when operating the clutch pedal and gear selector in manual mode.

It will be interesting to see how closely Porsche's manual/automatic gearbox approaches the one conceived by the Swedish manufacturer, and the German brand's engineers have surprised us more than once by creating simple and reliable solutions to complex problems. A good example was the variable valve timing system, which performed its function perfectly despite using only the timing chain tensioner.

Autonews and Mundoquatrorodas

 

AUTONEWS

Which cars are the best after 100,000 km?

The German car magazine Auto Bild has the rare opportunity to test cars in a marathon test of 100,000 km. Now it has a database of vehicles that have undergone the demanding treatment, and the best models with the fewest faults have been published. The cars are driven in all weather conditions, on short trips as well as on motorways. The result is not just a technical assessment, but a comprehensive and reliable picture.

The following models were impressive and achieved the highest rating. Not only did they demonstrate high quality and reliable technology, but they also showed only minimal weaknesses in everyday use and during disassembly.

So, the best after 100,000 km was the Audi A3 Sportback g-tron, tested in 2017. It received a rating of 1+ (in German terminology, the best rating is 1 to the worst rating is 5). The Audi did not have a single fault.

Next comes the 2023 BMW M3 with a 1+ rating, tested with a manual transmission and carbon ceramic brakes.

In third place is the 2019 Audi A4 Avant TFSI ultra with a 1 rating (all subsequent models also have a 1 rating) with no major issues.

Next comes the 2021 Audi A6 Avant 40 TDI, with no issues other than the parking sensor that kept triggering error messages.

The 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive 30i completed the endurance test with virtually no wear or complications. It never required an unscheduled service visit during the entire period. Even a teardown under the strict supervision of DEKRA revealed no defects or significant wear.

Seat Ateca 1.4 Eco TSI Style (2020) – after long drives, several drivers complained of back pain and numbness in their buttocks. This resulted in a penalty point, spoiling the otherwise exceptional and impeccable performance.

The VW T-Cross 1.0 TSI (2023) covered 100,000 kilometers without a single fault or defect. During the final inspection, a light brown film was noticed on the front and rear axles, which, as harmless surface corrosion, did not affect the performance of the T-Cross. Engine, gearbox, clutch – all in perfect working order.

The BMW 320d Touring (2022) endured 100,000 kilometers with complete calm and ease. A few functional weaknesses in everyday use, a couple of (mostly cosmetic) problems during disassembly and a high price – that's all that could be noticed.

The Mazda CX-5 Skyactiv-D 184 AWD (2021) also passed the test without any significant defects and with impeccable service in the service. Initial, but still harmless, corrosion was found under the trunk lid seal. The installed 2.2-liter diesel engine showed no signs of wear after 100,000 kilometers.

The Suzuki Swift Sport 1.4 Boosterjet (2021) completed the test without any problems. It was only during disassembly that a defect was discovered: (relatively minor) rust in the longitudinal members. The corrosion protection was insufficient. Without this defect, the Swift Sport would have received the highest rating.

The cars that best maintain performance and reliability after 100,000 km are mostly from Japanese brands, such as Toyota, Lexus, and Honda. These vehicles are designed with conservative engineering and durable components that, with proper maintenance, often exceed 300,000 km.

The most reliable sedans and hatchbacks...These models are frequently cited by experts and in longevity studies as safe choices for high mileage.

Toyota Corolla: Known worldwide for its extreme durability, it is common to see units in taxi service reaching 500,000 km.

Honda Civic: Praised for its simple and efficient mechanics, it is one of the top recommendations for those looking for a used car with more than 100,000 km in 2025/2026.

Toyota Camry: One of the most robust sedans on the market, with many owners reporting that the car "only starts to break in" at 100,000 km.

Honda Accord: Frequently achieves impressive mileage; there are records of units that have exceeded 1.6 million km with the original engine.

Lexus ES: Offers the luxury of the brand with Toyota's ultra-reliable mechanical base, being considered one of the most durable luxury sedans.

Long-lasting SUVs and pickups...Vehicles built on a body-on-frame chassis or with robust drive systems tend to handle wear and tear better over time.

Toyota 4Runner: Frequently voted the most reliable vehicle since 2010 for its robust construction and few design changes, which guarantees parts tested for years.

Toyota RAV4: Leader in the compact SUV segment in terms of longevity, especially in hybrid versions that reduce stress on the combustion engine.

Honda CR-V: Recognized for its build quality and ease of maintenance, remaining strong well beyond 200,000 km.

Toyota Tacoma/Hilux: These pickup trucks are designed for heavy-duty use and are known for maintaining resale value even with high mileage.

Subaru Outback/Forester: Cited for their durable all-wheel drive, provided preventive maintenance is rigorous.

European models and other brands...Although Japanese brands dominate, some European and Korean models stand out in fleets and heavy use.

Skoda Octavia / Volkswagen Passat: Favorites of taxi drivers in Europe for their spaciousness and diesel engines known for enduring long distances.

Volkswagen S90: Maintains the Swedish brand's historic reputation for creating cars built to last decades.

Kia Ceed: Offered with a long-term warranty (in some markets), reflecting the brand's confidence in its mechanical durability.

Toyota Prius: Toyota's hybrid technology has proven to be extremely resilient, with batteries that last much longer than initially expected.

MOTO GP

Bezzecchi wins the Brazilian Grand Prix, strings together four consecutive wins and takes the lead in MotoGP

Marco Bezzecchi is experiencing the best phase of his career. This Sunday (22), the Italian won the Brazilian Grand Prix, in Goiânia, and achieved his fourth consecutive victory in MotoGP — an unprecedented feat for him and also for Aprilia, which also secured a one-two finish in the stage, which had its number of laps reduced from 31 to 23 due to asphalt degradation at a specific point on the track.

The sequence puts Bezzecchi in a select group. He is the first rider to win four races in a row in the modern era after names like Valentino Rossi, Marc Márquez, Jorge Lorenzo and Francesco Bagnaia.

The Italian also took the lead in the world championship for riders, with 56 points. Jorge Martin jumped to second, with 45. As he finished seventh, Pedro now has 40.

The reunion between MotoGP and Brazil finally happened. This Sunday (March 22), the main category of motorcycle racing delighted Brazilians, who hadn't seen it since 2004. In total, almost 150,000 people attended the event over the weekend.

For Rafael, a 42-year-old businessman from Goiânia, the spectacle brought diversity to the city. He also said it was an honor to have this atmosphere in his city.

The MotoGP category hadn't been held in Brazil for 22 years, since a race was held at the Jacarepaguá Autodrome in Rio de Janeiro. In Goiânia, the waiting time was longer, since the last time the event was held in the city was in 1989.

1-Marco Bezzecchi (25 points)

2-Jorge Martín (20 points)

3-Fabio Di Giannantonio (16 points)

4-Marc Márquez (13 points)

5-Ai Ogura (11 points)

6-Álex Márquez (10 points)

7-Pedro Acosta (9 points)

8-Fermín Aldeguer (8 points)

9-Johann Zarco (7 points)

10-Raúl Fernández (6 points)

11-Luca Marini (5 points)

12-Franco Morbidelli (4 points)

13-Diogo Moreira (3 points)

14-Álex Rins (2 points)

15-Enea Bastianini (1 point)

16-Fabio Quartararo

17-Toprak Razgatlioglu

18-Maverick Viñales

by Autonews

HYUNDAI

Hyundai Exter 2026 restyled

After less than three years since its premiere, Hyundai has refreshed its small SUV model Exter.

It is a micro SUV shorter than 4 meters, which is made in India and exported to neighboring countries.

Visual changes primarily concern a different front bumper and grille, new 15-inch alloy wheels, a redesigned rear bumper and a rear roof spoiler.

Let’s start with the exterior changes. The new Exter comes with a redesigned front grille in a black finish, new front and rear bumpers with silver inserts, 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels in a new design with chunky wheel arch cladding and a new rear roof spoiler and C-pillar garnish.

The Exter is now offered with a dashcam, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a USB Type-C charging port for rear passengers, an electric sunroof, Bluelink with over 60 connected features and more than 300 embedded voice commands. Standard safety features include 6 airbags, ESC and Hill Start Assist Control.

The interior features a new steering wheel, higher-quality materials and new color combinations.

The 2026 Exter gets a two-tone interior in a Navy and Grey colour scheme. The compact SUV now gets metal pedals, a new flat-bottom steering wheel, and a folding driver armrest. A height-adjustable driver’s seat and adjustable rear headrests are now standard across all variants.

The driver's seat now has an armrest, rear passengers get type C USB ports, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now wireless via a portable adapter. Driver's seat height adjustment and adjustable rear headrests are also standard on all variants.

Other features such as an 8.0-inch touchscreen and an 8.0-inch digital driver display, cruise control, automatic air conditioning, wireless charging and an optional sunroof remain as before. In terms of safety, six airbags, ESC, hill start assist and central locking come as standard. Higher variants also get a rear camera, automatic headlights and more.

A 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with 61 kW/83 hp and 114 Nm is on offer, as is a 1.2-litre CNG-powered one (with 51 kW/69 hp and 95 Nm).

Drive is only to the front wheels, and in addition to a 5-speed manual, an automated manual transmission will also be offered.

Finally, the colour palette has been expanded with the addition of Golden Bronze and matt Titanium black, and three two-tone combinations are also offered.