October 2, 17:49FlatOut

BYD Dolphin Mini enters the top 3 of best-selling cars in Brazil in September

The BYD Dolphin Mini reached third place in the ranking of best-selling vehicles in Brazil during September, marking the first time an electric car has entered the overall top 3 of the market. The model registered sales of 9,385 units, trailing only the Fiat Strada and the Volkswagen Polo.

The Brazilian light vehicle market ended September with a total of 265,275 registrations, representing a 1.6% increase compared to August and surpassing the numbers from September 2025 by 14.5%. In the accumulated total for 2026, the volume reached 2,148,732 vehicles, configuring an 18.7% growth. Of this total, almost half of the sales, specifically 48.5%, occurred through the direct sales channel.

For the ranking analysis, data from JATO Dynamics was used, which allows comparison between the general ranking and retail under the same basis, although there are small discrepancies with Bright Consulting. For example, the Haval H6 appears with 6,433 units in Bright, while JATO registers 6,234 and places it in 11th position.

In the general ranking, the Fiat Strada maintained the lead with 16,002 units, followed by the Volkswagen Polo with 11,095. The BYD Dolphin Mini occupied the third position with 9,385 units, nearly tied with the Volkswagen T-Cross, which was fourth with 9,339. Other models in the top 10 included Volkswagen Tera (8,725), Fiat Argo (8,603), Fiat Pulse (7,150), Chevrolet Onix (7,133), Fiat Mobi (6,395), and Hyundai HB20 (6,314).

It was observed that the Strada and Polo remained relatively stable in the first two positions, but there was significant movement below them in September. The Dolphin Mini advanced from fifth to third place and renewed its monthly record. The T-Cross rose from eighth to fourth place, while the Tera dropped from third to fifth. The Fiat Pulse showed strong ascent, moving from 19th in August (with 4,775 units) to seventh place in September (with 7,150).

When segmenting direct sales from retail sales, the scenario changes significantly. This division refers to the revenue generated by the manufacturer or the dealership, and not necessarily the distinction between companies and individuals, since buyers such as taxi drivers or ride-share drivers may appear in both channels depending on the invoicing method.

In the retail channel, the Dolphin Mini took the lead with 5,886 units. The Volkswagen Tera was second with 4,183, followed by the Fiat Strada with 4,078. Other notable models in retail were Caoa Chery Tiggo 7 (4,015), T-Cross (3,806), Toyota Yaris Cross (3,741), Omoda 5 (3,615), Fiat Toro (3,437), Hyundai Creta (3,409), and Volkswagen Polo (3,297).

The highlight of the Dolphin Mini was not limited to the third general place; it also led retail sales with 5,886 units, although this number does not cover all individual purchases, as BYD sells the Dolphin Mini to ride-share drivers via direct sales.

The dynamics of Strada and Polo show notable differences: of the 16,002 Stradas sold, only 4,078 were registered in retail, representing just over 25%. Similarly, for the Polo, 3,297 of 11,095 units were sold in retail, less than 30%. This implies that approximately three out of every four Stradas and seven out of ten Polos had their revenue generated by the factory.

The case of the Hyundai HB20 is even more pronounced: it finished in tenth place in the general ranking with 6,314 units, but appears only in 41st in retail, with 1,069 units, indicating that more than 80% of its monthly sales were invoiced by the factory.

In contrast, the Caoa Chery Tiggo 7 jumped from 21st in the general ranking to fourth in retail, with 4,015 units sold in total and 4,015 in retail. The Omoda 5 presents an interesting data point: JATO registers 3,616 total registrations and 3,615 in retail, ranking it as the seventh best-selling car in this channel, despite being only 25th in the general ranking. The Yaris Cross and Creta also feature among the top ten in retail, models that fall outside the general top 10 due to the high volume of direct sales from manufacturers like Fiat, Volkswagen, Chevrolet, and Hyundai.

September concluded with 22.9% of light vehicles registered being electrified, an increase from 11.4% the previous year. Chinese brands represented 21.4% of the market, compared to 10.1% in September 2025.

RAM 1500 sales increase by 73% with the return of the V8

The demand for powerful engines was evidenced by the performance of the RAM 1500: after the manufacturer reintroduced V8 engines in the pickup truck, sales in the last quarter grew by 73% compared to the same period in 2025. The launch of the Ram 1500 Rumble Bee, whose entry version has a 5.7-liter V8, was the main catalyst for this interest. The demand was so intense that the entire initial stock sold out in just 90 minutes after the start of orders.

The first deliveries to the selected customers are scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026. With this performance, Ram established itself as the sole leader in the growth of the Stellantis group in the third quarter of 2026. Driven by renewed interest in large pickups and new high-performance variants, Ram saw its total sales rise by 29% in the quarter, while the complete pickup line grew by 34%. In the overall Stellantis landscape, this resulted in a 3% increase, with 324,277 vehicles sold in the quarter.

Besides the advance of the Ram 1500 (+42%), other group models showed good performance, including the Dodge Durango (+18%), the Jeep Grand Wagoneer (+14%), and the Chrysler Pacifica (+7%). The Jeep Cherokee Hybrid also recorded its best sales month in September. Michael Orange, responsible for retail sales and network performance for Stellantis in the US, attributed these results to a 'disciplined strategy in a highly competitive market.'

Rezvani announces kit to transform any DCT into a 'manual'

Following the launch of supercars by Koenigsegg and Ferrari equipped with dual-clutch transmissions and manual controls, and with Porsche showing similar intentions, the aftermarket sector entered the fray. Rezvani, known for the Rezvani Beast, announced that it will soon make available a kit designed to convert any dual-clutch transmission into a system called 'manual'. It is important to note that this is not a genuine manual gearbox, but rather an interface with an H-shaped lever that simulates gear shifting action.

A crucial distinction lies in the fact that while existing systems incorporate a third pedal to enhance the credibility of the experience, the Rezvani kit will not include this component. Developed by Limitless Engineering, a new division created by Ferris Rezvani, the device was named Quickshift. The entrepreneur's intention is to 'recover the tactile sensation and nostalgia of changing gears in a gated gearbox', while maintaining the responsiveness and efficiency of modern transmissions.

According to Rezvani's perspective, contemporary automotive industry offers extremely fast vehicles but has lost the emotional connection with the driver, and this innovation aims to restore that bond. Technically, the lever operates as an electronic selector that communicates with the gearbox control unit, enabling shifts and downshifts with rev-matching function (the known 'electronic heel-toe'). The absence of the left pedal is intentional, as the system promises to be fully reversible, capable of being installed in a few hours without requiring permanent cuts or alterations to the vehicle structure. The first functional unit was tested on the console of a Ferrari 458 Italia, but Limitless claims the module is adaptable to the electronics of virtually any dual-clutch car on the market.

Two questions arise when analyzing this proposal. Firstly, the cost: Rezvani has never been associated with affordable projects, suggesting that converting a vehicle like a dual-clutch Golf into a 'near-manual' car would be financially unfeasible. The second point is more conceptual: without the clutch pedal, the only change in the experience would be the sound of the click when shifting gears, which might not justify losing the great advantage of a dual-clutch gearbox (much faster shifts) for only half the experience of a true manual transmission.

AC Schnitzer has a new owner and escapes bankruptcy

The traditional tuner specializing in BMW, AC Schnitzer, which faced a real risk of closure, has been acquired and is safe for now. Founded in 1987 in Aachen, Germany, the tuner has almost four decades of experience with BMW vehicles, having developed projects for Mini, Land Rover, and motorcycles. However, rising operating costs and market changes threatened the company's future.

Concerns intensified when, in March of this year, AC Schnitzer announced the cessation of its operations until the end of 2026. This announcement was motivated by the decision of the former controller, the KOHL Group, to cease manufacturing components to focus exclusively on retail and services.

Salvation came with the acquisition by AM Group Holding BV, a Dutch conglomerate focused on automotive preparation and customization, which will officially take control of the brand starting in November. This transition brings positive prospects, as AC Schnitzer will become part of an ecosystem that includes specialists in carbon fiber parts manufacturing (UBC) and one of the largest distributors in the sector in Europe (GP Products), in addition to high-end partner brands such as Urban and Heritage.

Although immediate survival is secured, the next challenge will be managerial. To maintain its relevance in the face of increasingly fierce competition, the renowned German workshop will need to reinvent its presence in the aftermarket, honoring its historical legacy while adapting to the demands of the modern scenario.

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flatout.com.brSeptember 30, 17:34

Automotive News: Combustion BMW 3 Series, Fiat Argo X, Electric Range Rover Sport, and Porsche Multimedia

The automotive market has received several new developments, including the launch of the new combustion engine BMW 3 Series, initial glimpses of the Fiat Argo X, the electric version of the Range Rover Sport, and a multimedia update for classic Porsche models.

New Combustion BMW 3 Series

After just over six months since the electric variant, BMW introduced the new combustion engine 3 Series, identified by the code G50. Although both are named 3 Series and share strong visual similarities, they utilize distinct platforms. The visual identity follows the Neue Klasse style adopted by the manufacturer, with standardized headlights and taillights.

The combustion 3 Series features a more elongated hood, indicating its basis on the CLAR II platform, an evolution of the previous generation's architecture. BMW highlighted improvements such as widened front and rear tracks and a revised steering system, making it more precise and communicative. In contrast, the electric i3 model is built on the NAx architecture, the same one used in the iX3 SUV.

The vehicle's design occupies a peculiar position; although new BMWs rarely receive unanimous acclaim at launch, the trend suggests that enthusiasts will become accustomed to them over time. However, the new 3 Series carries the weight of the Neue Klasse name, referencing the iconic 1960s BMW 2002 without direct visual references, which might displease purists.

On the other hand, the G50 aligns with the brand's modern trend, presenting cleaner lines and more balanced proportions, eliminating excessive creases and folds and the prominent grille that was the target of criticism. While it cannot be classified as ugly, current criticism points to an excessively generic character.

Dynamics remain a strength of BMW. In the 3 Series G50, the highlight is the new M350 xDrive, which tops the combustion line in the absence of a new M3. This engine uses a classic 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six, complemented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. Power reaches 443 hp, allowing the sedan to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds.

A notable feature for enthusiasts is the system called 'Drift Moment.' BMW adapted a functionality typical of pure M models, allowing the xDrive system to disconnect the front axle, directing 100% of the power to the rear wheels for lateral maneuvers in corners.

For daily use, the 320 version maintains the 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine, also with mild-hybrid assistance, generating 208 hp and coupled to the eight-speed transmission. The brand also confirmed the existence of an entry-level 318 version with 154 hp for Europe and anticipates plug-in hybrid versions for next year.

To accommodate these powertrains, the chassis tuning was specifically developed for the gasoline platform, incorporating a dedicated front suspension geometry, a recalibrated multi-link rear setup, and stiffer bushings compared to the electric model.

Internally, the differences between the electric and gasoline versions are minimized, and the cabin embraces the minimalism of the Neue Klasse language. The interior is dominated by an imposing 17.9-inch curved central display, focused on the driver, along with a new panoramic head-up display. The operating system is BMW OS X, based on Android, promising continuous updates and signaling BMW's commitment to reducing physical buttons on the dashboard.

In terms of dimensions, the G50 underwent a typical generational transition elongation to reinforce its road presence. The sedan now measures 4.76 meters long (5.2 cm longer than the previous one), is 1.85 m wide, and increased the wheelbase by almost 1 cm, reaching 2.88 meters.

Production was also segregated: while the electric i3 will be manufactured at the historic Munich headquarters, the entire combustion line of the new 3 Series will come from the Dingolfing assembly lines.

Considering the positive and negative aspects, BMW managed to find an intelligent way to preserve the mechanical essence that established the 3 Series, without neglecting what many consider the future of the industry. It remains to await the launch of the new M3.

Fiat Begins Revealing the Argo X

So far, everything known about the Fiat Argo X, which may be the brand's most relevant launch in the coming months, came from journalistic investigations and unofficial photos. However, the Italian-Minas manufacturer has finally released the first teasers with details of the vehicle.

The details are limited, consisting only of the emblem with a square typography and a close-up image of what appears to be the headlight. An initial surprise is that Fiat apparently will maintain the pixelated headlight of the European Grande Panda, the model that will serve as the basis for the Argo X. This is not a common aesthetic solution and certainly won't please everyone, but it is undeniable that Fiat will preserve the tradition of incorporating playful and creative design elements, as happened with the New Uno last decade (although this also did not have universal acceptance).

It is crucial to note that the Argo X should present significant structural changes compared to the model sold in the international market, given that its apparent function is to gradually replace the current Argo in the brand's entry-level lineup. This reflects Fiat's pattern of adapting its 'national versions,' simplifying engines and suspension systems for the Brazilian market, aiming for greater price competitiveness.

It is certain that two different mechanical units will be used, depending on the version. The most basic configurations should employ the well-known 1.0 naturally aspirated Firefly three-cylinder, six-valve engine, which delivers 75 hp and 10.7 kgfm, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission. More expensive versions may adopt the T200 Hybrid powertrain, equipped with a mild-hybrid system, producing 116 hp and 20.4 kgfm, always with a CVT gearbox simulating seven speeds. This engine is the same one used in the newly launched Jeep Avenger.

The Argo X is expected to arrive at dealerships soon, with projections pointing to the last quarter of 2026, although optimists bet on October.

Someone Decided to Make the Prelude

flatout.com.brSeptember 22, 18:09

Porsche may launch new supercar with flat-8 engine; McLaren renews logo inspired by the past

Porsche is reportedly developing a new supercar equipped with an eight-cylinder boxer engine, a configuration the brand has not used since the legendary 917 prototype. This development comes after more than a decade without a dedicated flagship model, with the last one being the 918 Spyder, produced 11 years ago.

The German publication Handelsblatt reported that Porsche CEO Michael Leiters will present details of this new vehicle during the Capital Markets Day, scheduled for October 7. The project, internally nicknamed Porsche S1, is part of the company's strategy to focus on combustion models for its most exclusive editions, catering to its audience's preference for gasoline-powered vehicles.

Although the project may incorporate elements of the Porsche 911, it is expected to be an exclusive vehicle. The recent sale of Porsche's stake in Bugatti injected about one billion euros in cash into Stuttgart, but the company still has priority expenses.

McLaren alters its logo with historical references

McLaren has made a change to its typography design, drawing inspiration from the origins of Bruce McLaren. The new lettering used on the cars is derived from the facade of the gas station owned by Bruce's family in Auckland, New Zealand. This location was the starting point for the first modifications made by Bruce McLaren to his 1929 Austin Seven, culminating in his first victory at Muriwai Beach.

This new font, named 'McLaren Sans', was previously displayed on the McL 6GT supercar during Monterey Car Week in California. Recently, McLaren changed the inscription on the rear of the vehicle, replacing 'McL 6GT' with just 'McL'. The manufacturer clarified that other iconic symbols remain in use, such as the Speedy kiwi bird, originating from the first shield designed by Bruce, and the Speedmark, the inverted 'C' emblem.

McLaren also emphasized the importance of its traditional colors—orange, chosen by the founder to make the cars stand out on the track, as well as blue, red, beige, and black. This change reflects a new phase for the brand, marked by contrasts: while the McL 6GT features a naturally aspirated V8 with a manual gearbox, the company is preparing an SUV to compete with models like the Lamborghini Urus and Ferrari Purosangue, aiming for broader appeal.

Rare MCA Centenaire supercar to be auctioned

The MCA Centenaire, a remarkably rare supercar, will be offered at auction by Broad Arrow Auctions. Conceived in the late 1980s by Italian Fulvio-Maria Ballabio, a former Formula 2 and CART driver, the vehicle featured the work of specialists such as Carlo Chito, an engineer with experience at Ferrari and Autodelta, and Pierluigi Corbari, former sporting director of Alfa Romeo.

Its innovation lay in the carbon fiber monocoque, often cited as the first street car to employ such construction. The engine was a 5.2-liter V12, taken from the Lamborghini Countach 5000QV, which generated 455 hp transmitted to the rear wheels by a six-speed ZF manual gearbox. Only five examples were produced between 1990 and 1992, and the car in question is the first.

Additionally, the MCA Centenaire was the first supercar manufactured in Monaco, and its name honors the centenary of the principality's Automobile Club. The car will participate in the 2026 edition of the Zoute Concours Auction, which will take place in Belgium on October 9, with an estimated valuation between 900,000 and 1.2 million euros.

In another piece of news, Dodge has asked owners of 345 units of the Demon 170 to suspend the use of the cars. The manufacturer identified a specific batch of defective crankshaft dampers in these units, representing over 10% of the total production of 3,300. According to Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO, the problem can start with abnormal noises and, if ignored, lead to a 'catastrophic engine failure.'

Dodge is arranging for the component replacement and will cover transportation costs for the repair. Interestingly, this action is being treated as a Customer Service Notice rather than a formal recall.