Latest from Auto Blog
Auto Blog
5 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Honda Launches Killer Civic Lease Offer For June
An enticing Honda Civic lease offer Compact cars aren't exactly a dime a dozen these days, but the Honda Civic remains a popular pick among first-time and veteran buyers alike. Available in multiple bodystyles, as well as in two performance variants, there's truly a Civic for every driver. This June, Honda is running an enticing lease offer on both the sedan and hatchback models. Both lease deals are a bargain, $289 per month, with either $3,899 or $3,999 due at signing, depending on the bodystyle. Honda Civic remains a true value The Honda Civic receives several updates for the 2025 model year, namely in the headlights and front bumper. With the introduction of the hybrid model, the sedan is now only available in two trim levels, while the hatchback is only offered in a single model. Perhaps most notably, the Civic's turbocharged engine is no longer available, and the hatchback loses its manual transmission. The Honda Civic Sedan and Hatchback June lease offers are specific to the Sport trim, both of which come powered with a 150-horsepower engine mated to a CVT. A model known for its efficiency, the Civic Sedan Sport is rated for an EPA-estimated 31 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway. The Civic Hatchback Sport earns one mile per gallon less in both categories. Both the 2025 Honda Civic Sedan and Hatchback Sport come comparably equipped, rolling out on athletic 18-inch gloss black wheels complemented by LED headlights and gloss-black side mirrors. Notably, the sedan comes with a chrome exhaust finisher and black upper window trim. Inside, the Civic Hatchback features sport pedals and red ambient lighting, while the sedan includes a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. As for tech, both 2025 Honda Civic body styles come equipped with a seven-inch touchscreen display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility come standard, as does an eight-speaker audio system. Regardless of body style, the Honda Civic comes equipped with a full suite of safety systems, including road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition. Honda Civic lease offers for June 2025 This June, Honda is running an aggressive Civic Sedan lease deal: $289 per month, with $3,899 due at signing. If you need more interior space, Honda is running a sweet deal on the Civic Hatchback as well, with a $289 monthly payment and a $3,999 down payment. These lease offers appear to be a nationwide deal. Both lease offers span a 36-month term with an annual 10,000-mile allowance. Act quickly, though, as this lease deal is only valid through July 7th! Source: Joseph Pudlewski If you want to minimize your upfront payments, you may be able to spread the down payment across the 36-month term. If you take that route, the Honda Civic Sedan would cost you roughly $397.31 per month. The Civic Hatchback would be slightly more expensive, at $400.09 per month. $0 down options may vary according to region, and not all consumers will qualify. Always get an estimate directly from Honda. Final thoughts The Honda Civic returns for another year, maintaining its reputation for reliability, efficiency, and value. With plenty of tech and slick styling across the lineup, it's no wonder the Civic is a top contender among compact cars. If you're in need of a new daily driver, this June lease deal is a great time to get behind the wheel of the 2025 Honda Civic. These lease offers are valid through July 7th, so don't procrastinate! Lease offers may vary according to location, vehicle configuration, and are subject to credit approval. Advertised monthly payments don't necessarily include taxes, title, registration, or other fees. To learn more about your local 2025 Honda Civic lease offers, visit the official Honda website and enter your zip code. *Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle. About the Author Joseph Pudlewski View Profile
Auto Blog
7 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Tesla Pauses Cybertruck, Model Y Production to Cut Backlogs
Tesla Schedules Production Pause at Austin Plant Tesla will temporarily halt operations at its Austin, Texas Gigafactory later this month, a move it says will allow it to run maintenance at the plant. But the move also will permit it to draw down increasingly bloated inventories of both the slow-selling Cybertruck pickup and the recently updated Model Y SUV. 2025 Ford Maverick: 4 reasons to love it, 2 reasons to think twice Watch More Though it remains the largest U.S. producer of battery-electric vehicles, the automaker has undergone a sharp decline in sales this year, something analysts blame on both rising competition and the backlash that's hit Tesla due to CEO Elon Musk's political shift to the hard right. The production pause will come just days after the Austin plant is set to roll out the first Tesla robotaxi – something Musk has declared essential to the automaker's future. But a group of Texas lawmakers have called on Tesla to put the launch of its new driverless ride-sharing service temporarily on hold. Cybertruck Production Paused…Again Tesla revealed plans to pause production at the Texas Gigafactory during a staff meeting this week, according to Business Insider. The Austin team was told the move was meant to give Tesla time to performance maintenance at the factory. 'Most automakers have a summer shutdown for a couple weeks which they use to work on their machinery,' said Sam Abuelsamid, lead analyst with Telemetry Research. 'I wouldn't totally rule out they'll do some maintenance,' he added, 'but I'm skeptical that's the only reason' This marks the third time that production of the Cybertruck will have been paused over the past 12 months, but the first halt for the updated Model Y launched around the end of the first quarter. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Bulging Cybertruck Backlog In Farmington Hills, Michigan, scores of unsold Cybertrucks have been stored in the parking lot of a now-closed Bed Bath & Beyond store. The situation reportedly is repeated at locations around the country as demand for the electric truck continues to slow. Shortly after it was first revealed in November 2019, Tesla claimed to have received 1 million advance reservations, complete with $100 deposits. That led Tesla to tool up the Austin plant to produce as many as 250,000 of the trucks annually. But demand hasn't come close. The automaker confirmed selling than 39,000 of the pickups all last year and the trendline has continued declining this year, S&P Global Mobility reporting just 7,126 Cybertrucks were registered during the first quarter of 2025. To put that into perspective, that's 10% fewer than the 7,913 Ford F-150 Lighting EVs registered during the same period. There are indications another critical Tesla product line may be fizzling, despite a major midcycle refresh. The Model Y has been the automaker's best-selling product and the update, known insider Tesla by its codename, Jupiter, was expected to reverse declining sales. Though Tesla only reports production and delivery numbers on a quarterly basis, preliminary registration data does not look encouraging, said Abuelsamid. 'All indications are that the refreshed Model Y isn't selling as well as expected, nor even as well as the old one did last year.' Tesla Model Y Juniper — Source: Tesla Tesla's U.S. EV Market Share Dips Below 50% Tesla remains the EV segment's 800-pound gorilla in the U.S. market, but its share is now below 50% and continuing to fall. New EV registrations, overall, fell 4.4% in April, marking the first monthly decline in 14 months, according to S&P. But the majority of brands in the battery-electric sector actually reported gains. Chevrolet and its upscale sibling Cadillac were up by triple digits. 'It was mostly Tesla,' said Sam Fiorani, lead analyst with AutoForecast Solutions. The automaker reportedly suffered a 16% year-over-year dip in registrations in April, despite the launch of the new Model Y. Analysts Cite Weak Product Pipeline and Musk's Politics for Tesla Slowdown A variety of factors appear to be in play. To start, the Model Y update didn't go far enough, said Fiorani, contending that 'a ground-up makeover' was what Tesla really needed. If anything, Tesla simply doesn't have enough product to compete as more and more competition come to market, he and other analysts agree. The automaker continues to delay introducing a new entry model to compete with the likes of the Chevrolet Equinox EV that starts in the mid-$20,000 range after factoring in federal incentives. Then there's Musk's active move to the political right which became increasingly obvious after his October 2022 takeover of social media site Twitter and his subsequent role as head of the controversial Department of Government Efficiency under Pres. Donald Trump. That's alienated many traditional Tesla buyers, Fiorani and Abuelsamid agreed, leading to protests and boycotts. Robotaxi Launch Scheduled Even before Musk shifted his focus away from politics last month he was signaling to investors that the company's future would become less about EVs and more about technologies such as AI, humanoid robots and autonomous ride-sharing. Earlier this month, Musk said he was 'tentatively' scheduling a rollout of the first 10 to 20 'robotaxis' on June 22 from the Austin factory – though he warned the date could be pushed back because, 'We are being super paranoid about safety.' The first of those driverless vehicles will be modified versions of the new Model Y, though Tesla continues development of a new model, the CyberCab, specifically designed for the driverless service. New Texas Law to Impose Stricter Rules on Autonomous Vehicles Musk isn't the only one 'paranoid' about safety. A group of Democratic lawmakers from Texas have requested Tesla delay the robotaxi launch 'in the best interest of both public safety and building public trust in Tesla's operations.' They want Tesla to wait until a new law, revising the state's earlier autonomous vehicle regulations, goes into effect on September 1. The new rules will require, among other things, that companies like Tesla report any failures, have a limp-hone mode for any vehicle that may suffer glitches while in operation, and have a plan of action in the event of a more serious crisis. Even if it declines to delay the robotaxi launch, the Texas lawmakers are hoping to get a commitment from the automaker that it will obey the new guidelines without waiting for September. About the Author Paul Eisenstein View Profile
Auto Blog
7 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
BMW's New M Cars May Feature Plant-Based Composites
A greener solution to weight reduction It seems like everything we used to consider good or tasty is getting some sort of veggie or plant-based alternative. These days, it's impossible to ignore the oat milk, plant-based cheeses, and Impossible meat on the menu at your local coffee shop or neighborhood bistro. Sometimes, those things taste just as good as the real animal-based thing. In today's eco-conscious world, equipping cars with lower-emission engines or electrifying powertrains is simply not enough for some automakers. Some manufacturers are going as far as decking their interiors with reclaimed wood trim, recycled plastics, as well as seats lined with 'vegan leather' instead of the kind that comes off the back of a cow. However, the best of BMW's Ultimate Driving Machines are getting a plant-based alternative to a space-age material. BMW plant-based carbon fiber Carbon fiber, meet 'Flax-Fiber' In a statement released this week, BMW unveiled a new lightweight material that it claims is a more eco-friendly alternative to carbon fiber. Dubbed 'natural fiber composites,' this new material is made from fibers derived from flax, the same plant used to create textiles like linen and special types of paper, including the ones used in banknotes. The Bavarians claim that this new composite material is stronger than the carbon fiber components it replaces and offers reduced CO2 emissions compared to producing carbon fiber parts. According to BMW, exchanging carbon fiber parts for those made of natural fiber composites in the roofs of next-generation BMW Group vehicles can lead to a CO2 reduction of around 40% in production. After years of research and development and trial runs in motorsport settings, BMW says these natural composites are ready to be used in BMW's road cars. In a statement, Franciscus van Meel, the CEO of the automaker's M division, said that the high-performance specialists 'are now looking forward to the use of these materials in future BMW M product ranges;' meaning that the the next-generation M3 and/or M4 may have a flax-roof when it reaches production. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. The flax-based 'natural fiber composites' were made in collaboration with Swiss clean-tech firm Bcomp, a company the automaker has invested in through BMW i Ventures. BMW and Bcomp developed this eco-friendly space-age material through an experimental development phase over several years. BMW M Motorsport initially used reinforcement parts made with these natural fiber composites in the 2019 season of Formula E. Since then, the same parts have also been used to replace carbon fiber plastic (CFRP) parts in BMW's M4 DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) car and the M4 GT4 cars. BMW says that the M4 GT4 that will compete at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring will be equipped with these panels onboard. 'Natural fiber composites are a vital element of innovative lightweight solutions in motorsport,' he said. 'They allow for a reduction in CO₂e emissions in the manufacturing process. This is innovation that perfectly fits BMW M's identity: 'Born on the racetrack. Made for the streets.'' Final thoughts By looking at it, you can convince me or the untrained eye that this 'plant-based carbon fiber' is actually carbon fiber. On a more serious note, BMW and Bcomp are making significant strides toward sustainability with the introduction of this new sustainable lightweight material, especially at a time when there is a strong emphasis on creating more environmentally friendly vehicles. Reducing emissions involves more than just improving or removing engines; it requires comprehensive solutions that go beyond simply placing a green badge on cars with electric motors and batteries and calling it a day. About the Author James Ochoa View Profile
Auto Blog
7 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Fiat 500e EV Could Get a New Battery as Quickly as a Gas Fill-Up
Battery swapping returns — but this time, it's modular Spain's car-sharing scene is about to get a jolt. Stellantis, the global automaker behind brands like Jeep, Dodge, and Fiat, has teamed up with San Francisco startup Ample to deploy 100 Fiat 500e EVs equipped with swappable batteries. The cars will be part of Free2move, Stellantis' car-sharing and mobility service in Madrid. Instead of plugging in and waiting around to recharge, these Fiats can drive into a station and receive a freshly charged battery in just five minutes — about the same time it takes to fill up a gas tank. It's a modern take on a concept that's been attempted before, with one major twist: Ample's system uses modular battery packs rather than one-size-fits-all units. A suitcase-sized solution to EV charging delays What sets Ample apart is the flexibility of its battery system. Each swappable module is roughly the size of a carry-on suitcase, and multiple modules can be combined to suit different needs. That means a Fiat 500e doesn't have to carry more battery than necessary — just one module for quick trips, or a full set of four for longer drives. Unlike systems that require bespoke vehicle designs or bulky underbody access points, Ample's batteries are designed to slot into existing EV platforms. This approach makes it easier to retrofit a wide variety of electric vehicles with the swappable tech. It also helps future-proof the system, meaning that as EV technology evolves, Ample can upgrade the modules themselves, not the cars. For car-sharing fleets, time really is money Battery swapping might not make sense for individual EV owners who charge overnight at home. But in the world of car-sharing and ride-hailing, downtime is the enemy. Fiat 500e Ample Battery Swap — Source: Stellantis 'For car-sharing fleets, every minute spent off the road is lost revenue,' said Khaled Hassounah, CEO of Ample. 'We're deeply committed to making Free2move's transition to electric seamless — not just in theory, but in daily operations. Our five-minute battery swaps eliminate charging downtime entirely, helping Free2move keep vehicles available, customers moving, and operations running at full speed.' Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. That kind of efficiency is critical for Free2move, which began testing 40 Ample-equipped 500e models in Madrid last year. With the fleet performing well and earning full regulatory approval, Stellantis plans to grow it to 100 vehicles by mid-2025. Second-gen stations improve speed and user experience Ample's first battery swap stations appeared in California in 2021 and could complete a full changeover in about 10 minutes. However, the company has already rolled out a second-generation station that cuts that time in half and enhances the user experience. 2024 FIAT (500e) RED — Source: Fiat Now, drivers can remain inside the vehicle during the swap — a small but meaningful upgrade for comfort and convenience, especially in colder or hotter climates. The stations themselves are designed to be modular and quickly deployable, meaning they can be installed in urban environments without massive infrastructure changes. That's a major advantage for cities with limited space or power grid constraints. Final thoughts Battery swapping isn't likely to replace fast charging across the board. Most private EV owners won't need it, and the cost of deploying swap stations at scale is still high. But in dense cities, where fleets need to keep moving and space is at a premium, modular swap stations could fill an important niche. If the Madrid program proves successful, it could serve as a model for other cities and automakers looking to make electric fleets faster, more reliable, and more flexible. For now, it's an ambitious experiment, but if it works, five-minute EV 'refueling' could become a lot more common. About the Author Elijah Nicholson-Messmer View Profile
Auto Blog
7 hours ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Walmart is selling a ‘sturdy' $71 car trunk organizer for just $36, and it has ‘large compartments that hold a lot'
Autoblog aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Car organization is one of those constant battles. Whether it's a matter of keeping your in-car essentials in one place, carrying groceries and other cargo, or simply having a convenient spot to throw things so they won't end up rolling around your floor, a good organizer can go a long way at making your vehicle less chaotic. For a limited time, Walmart is selling the Cshidworld Heavy Duty Car Organizer for almost 50% off. That brings the price down from $71 to $36, making it a bargain you can't pass up. Cshidworld Heavy Duty Car Organizer, $36 (was $71) at Walmart The Cshidworld Heavy Duty Car Organizer is no mere box. With multiple compartments that can be adjusted to suit your needs, it provides plenty of options for keeping everything in its place. Durable, reinforced 160D Oxford polyester material ensures that it can stand up through years of use. It's equipped with a leak-proof, insulated cooler bag that can hold up to 24 cans and retain cold for up to 12 hours. The lid is collapsable and removable, allowing you to cover your items when necessary or keep them exposed when you want easy access. And dual tie-down straps keep the whole thing from moving around while you drive. It measures 10.20 inches long, 31.40 inches wide, and 13.80 inches high, so it can fit in any and all types of vehicles. Previous buyers say it's the 'perfect' organizer, saying it's 'well-constructed,' a 'great buy,' and 'very useful.' One reviewer noted they were 'impressed' with the overall quality and that the organizer has 'large compartments that hold a lot.' Another shopper said, 'This is the best car organizer I've had yet. It's sturdy and I like how it snaps together to make it smaller.' One shopper seemed to sum up the general consensus, saying, 'This storage item is very well-made and I am very pleased with it. I would definitely order it again.' The Cshidworld Heavy Duty Car Organizer is currently on sale at Walmart for just $36, down from $71, so now is the perfect time to order yours and bring improved organization to your trunk. About the Author Nick Hilden View Profile
