Core Insights - Cars.com announced the winners of its annual Best Of Awards for 2026, highlighting top-rated vehicles amidst rising vehicle prices and changing market conditions [1][2] - The Nissan Leaf was named Best Car of the Year, recognized for its value, innovation, and usability, especially as affordable EV options become more limited [2][7] Award Winners - Best Car: 2026 Nissan Leaf, starting at $31,485, offers up to 303 miles of range and access to Tesla's Supercharger network [7] - Best SUV: 2026 Nissan Armada, known for its strong twin-turbo V-6 power and towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds [7] - Best Family Car: 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe, featuring three-row seating and flexible cargo space [7] - Best Pickup Truck: 2026 Ram 1500, combining work-ready trims with luxury models and class-leading comfort [7] - Best Electric Vehicle: 2026 Kia EV9, providing up to 305 miles of range and family-friendly versatility [7] - Best Luxury Vehicle: 2026 Cadillac Escalade IQ, offering an estimated 465 miles of range and advanced technology [7] Methodology - The Best Car of the Year was selected from over 40 new or redesigned models, evaluated based on quality, innovation, and value [4] - Other awards considered specific criteria relevant to their respective categories, open to all model-year 2026 vehicles [4]

Core Insights - Stellantis showcases its brands at the State Fair of Texas, featuring interactive displays and a variety of vehicles, celebrating Chrysler's 100 years of automotive excellence [1][11] Chrysler Brand - Chrysler presents the Chrysler Pacifica concept and celebrates a century of innovation with engaging displays and interactive experiences [2][3] - The Chrysler Pacifica Grizzly Peak Concept is designed as an overlanding adventure vehicle, featuring unique design and customization options [4] Dodge Brand - The 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack debuts with a 550-horsepower, 3.9-second 0-60 time, making it the most powerful vehicle under $55,000 [2][3] - The all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona offers 670 horsepower, achieving 0-60 in 3.3 seconds, priced at $59,995, making it the world's quickest muscle car [2][3] - The 2026 Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak features a supercharged V-8 engine with extensive customization options [2][3] Jeep Brand - Jeep introduces the 2026 Cherokee, featuring a 1.6-liter turbo-four hybrid engine with an estimated 37 mpg combined and over 500 miles per tank [2][3] - The Jeep display includes various models and interactive experiences, emphasizing off-road capabilities [5][9] Ram Brand - Ram celebrates the return of the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine in the 2026 Ram 1500, enhanced with eTorque technology, delivering 395 horsepower [5][6] - The Ram display features heavy-duty models and interactive experiences, including the Ram RHO Thrill Ride [6][10] FIAT Brand - FIAT showcases the 500e Inspired by Beauty, an all-electric hatchback with a range of up to 162 miles in the city, emphasizing Italian elegance and modern EV technology [7] Alfa Romeo Brand - Alfa Romeo presents the 2025 Tonale, a C-SUV with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and a 1.3-liter plug-in hybrid option, featuring advanced driver assistance systems [8] Event Details - The Texas Auto Show runs from September 26 to October 19, 2025, as part of the State Fair of Texas, with admission included in fair tickets [11]

Core Points - Ram is reintroducing the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine in the 2026 Ram 1500, with orders now open and the first trucks expected to arrive at dealerships this summer [1][11] - The decision to bring back the HEMI V-8 was influenced by consumer demand after the Ram 1500 lineup shifted to six-cylinder engines for the 2025 model year [2][11] - The 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine delivers 395 horsepower and 410 lb.-ft. of torque, featuring advanced fuel-saving technologies [5][11] Product Features - The 2026 Ram 1500 with the HEMI V-8 will include a new fender-mounted Symbol of Protest badge, symbolizing the engine's return [4] - The HEMI V-8 is available in various models including Tradesman, Big Horn, Express, Warlock, Laramie, Rebel, Limited, and Longhorn [4] - The engine option offers a towing capacity of up to 11,470 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of 1,750 pounds [10] Hybrid Technology - The eTorque hybrid system is a class-exclusive feature that enhances the HEMI V-8's performance and efficiency [6][9] - The system includes a 48-volt battery pack and provides up to 130 lb.-ft. of torque on initial throttle tip-in, improving responsiveness [6][9] - eTorque technology also aids in fuel-saving cylinder deactivation and enhances overall driving experience by reducing noise and vibration [9] Market Strategy - Ram aims to expand its product offerings and enhance customer choice in powertrains, responding to consumer feedback [2][3] - The brand is focused on maintaining competitiveness and growth while leveraging electrified offerings [16] - Ram continues to outperform competitors in key areas important to truck buyers, including performance and market presence [15][16]