Car news briefs — Apr 9, 2026 · 8:59 AM EDT
Quick hits from car enthusiast outlets covering deals, tech, and industry moves.
ENTHUSIAST

$5,500 Jaguar XE 2.5T Premium Tests Bargain Hunters' Courage
A 2018 Jaguar XE with questionable reliability reputation asks how much bravery car enthusiasts possess for potential savings.
OFF-ROAD

Understanding 4-High vs 4-Low for Off-Road Adventures
Four-wheel-drive vehicles offer distinct 4-high and 4-low modes with different applications for rough terrain navigation.
ENTHUSIAST

California May Assist EV Owners with Failed Batteries
Used EV buyers through specific California programs might qualify for assistance when vehicle maintenance issues include battery failure.
INDUSTRY

Steer-by-Wire Technology Presents Mixed Benefits for Drivers
Electronic steering eliminates direct mechanical connections between steering wheel and tires, offering advantages alongside notable drawbacks.
OEM

Scout Terra Pickup Production Delayed Until March 2030
Range-extender Harvester models will launch first as 87% of reservation holders chose them over pure electric versions.
ENTHUSIAST

SpaceX Starship Engine Test Ends in Spectacular Explosion
Testing involves pushing components beyond limits, making the fiery conclusion potentially expected by the development team.
NASCAR
NASCAR Denies Cleetus McFarland Talladega Approval
The YouTube star needs more experience before tackling the superspeedway in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series.
OEM
Ford Leads Vehicle Recalls with 19 Million Units
Ford, Toyota, and Stellantis top the 2025-2026 recall list, with Ford significantly ahead of competitors.
OEM
VW Considers New Flagship SUV for Affluent Market
The SUV could use the PPE platform shared with the electric Porsche Cayenne.
OEM
Mercedes-AMG CLE63 V-8 Coming Soon, CEO Confirms
AMG's lineup will soon include another V-8-powered coupe option for performance enthusiasts.
Sources
- Jalopnik - $5,500 Jaguar XE 2.5T Premium
- Jalopnik - 4-Low And 4-High When Off-Roading
- Jalopnik - California EV Battery Assistance
- Jalopnik - Steer-By-Wire Technology
- Jalopnik - Scout Terra Production Delay
- Jalopnik - SpaceX Starship Engine Test
- Road & Track - NASCAR Cleetus McFarland
- Road & Track - Vehicle Recalls by Brand
- Road & Track - VW Flagship SUV
- Road & Track - Mercedes-AMG CLE63 V-8
