Monday, March 23, 2026

BMW iX3 NA5

BMW's Neue Klasse era commences with the all-new iX3, the first model to embody the Neue Klasse design language of the renowned German luxury carmaker. This completely new vehicle marks a significant reset for BMW, beginning a new chapter. BMW is starting anew.

2027 BMW iX3
2027 BMW iX3

Starting at 70,900 Euros plus additional costs, the all-new BMW iX3 is the first BMW model of the Neue Klasse era, a paradigm shift for the luxury carmaker that promises back-to-its-roots design, cutting-edge technology, and electrified performance that is becoming the new normal.

2027 BMW iX3
2027 BMW iX3

Starting with its design, the iX3 takes cues from the 2024 Vision Neue Klasse X Concept, exemplifying the essence of the Neue Klasse design language. Although it looks awkward, the Neue Klasse kidney grille at the front is a nostalgic nod to the original 1962 Neue Klasse model. As for the rear, it looks like BMW has taken a dramatic approach.

2027 BMW iX3
2027 BMW iX3 interior

The interior highlights the innovative features of the Neue Klasse technology. On the driver's side, the dashboard is complemented by a floating instrument panel that provides real-time information. This system, known as the BMW Panoramic iDrive, operates on BMW's proprietary Operating System X and can be customized through a touch screen that controls nearly all aspects of the vehicle. Additionally, it includes the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which responds to voice commands when you say "Hey BMW." While this feature is convenient, the replacement of traditional buttons on the steering wheel with haptic touch panels can be frustrating.

Boasting a 2897mm wheelbase and 2093mm width, the spacing is nearly as good as the ICE-powered BMW X3 G45. As for the boot space, the iX3 can fit up to 520 litres with the rear seats present, up to 1750 litres with the passenger seats folded down. That's more than you get from the X3.

The iX3's hallmark electric powertrain is the dual-motor setup that grants it all-wheel-drive capability and a 108.7 kWh lithium battery. It produces 469PS of power and 645Nm of torque. It will go from 0-100kph in less than five seconds and flat out in 210kph. Not bad for an EV SUV with a permissible total weight of nearly three tons.

In terms of driving range, this vehicle can travel up to 805 kilometers on a full charge based on WLTP standards. At a public charging station, it will take approximately 21 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%. If you choose to charge at home, it will take about 660 minutes using an 11 kW charging station or 345 minutes with the more expensive 22 kW charging station. Like all good electric cars, the iX3 has V2L and V2H capabilities, making it useful as a secondary power source.

The Neue Klasse BMW iX3 is a remarkable vehicle, showcasing what BMW refers to as its "Heart of Joy." This feature works seamlessly with the BMW Dynamic Performance Control software, creating a unique driving experience. However, the effectiveness of this experience is somewhat questionable. Additionally, the BMW Symbiotic Drive system manages the new-generation driver assistance technologies, boasting 20 times greater processing power than previous versions. These advanced "superbrains" demonstrate that AI is increasingly integrated into the driving experience, which raises some concerns.

With the introduction of the Neue Klasse BMW iX3, BMW is embarking on a new journey, as they have stated. Featuring a design that harkens back to its roots, along with advanced technology and electrified performance, BMW has indeed pressed the reset button as it welcomes a new era with this vehicle.

Available Colors: Alpinweiβ uni, M Brooklyn Grau metallic, Spacesilber metallic, Fire Red metallic, Eucalyptus Grun metallic, Polarized Grau metallic, Saphirschwarz metallic, Ocean Wave Blau metallic, and Frozen Space Silver metallic.

Photo: BMW AG

2026 NASCAR Cup Series - Goodyear 400

The tripleheader weekend of the 2026 NASCAR Cup Series ends with the Goodyear 400 at the track that's Too Tough To Tame, a major test for the season's higher-horsepower, lower-aero, high-wear tire package.

As the green flag waved, the action in Darlington began. As Brad Keselowski won Stage 1, Stage 2 saw Hamlin and Jones make contact, causing the latter to slide. As Keselowski nabs Stage 2, the final stage saw Tyler Reddick get into Chris Buescher while the No.17 was attempting to come to pit road.

2026 NASCAR Cup Series - Goodyear 400
Screengrab from NASCAR

This guy is "too tough to tame" this season as Tyler Reddick wins the Goodyear 400 of the NASCAR Cup Series! Tyler Reddick is only the third driver in NASCAR history to win four out of the first six races in a season.

The action continues in Martinsville, Ridgeway, Virginia, for the Cook Out 400 this Palm Sunday, March 29, 2026.

Let's Do The News! (March 23, 2026)

                                      

Your daily round-up of today's news...

- The end of the Northeast monsoon or Amihan has been officially announced by PAGASA. According to the weather state bureau, this is the beginning of preparations for the warm and dry season in the country.

- Former senator Antonio Trillanes filed a cyber libel complaint with the PH Department of Justice (DOJ) today against 18 alleged ex-marines.

- The KMU is staging protests in front of the US Embassy in Manila.

- The extinct Philippine Deer was spotted in Marinduque for the first time in decades.

- The PH Department of Energy is mulling the temporary use of lower-quality Euro 2 fuels.

- Former FBI director Robert Mueller, who led the investigation into the alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US election that saw Donald Trump's victory against former First Lady Hillary Clinton, has died.

- An arson attack on ambulances in London was being treated as an antisemitic hate crime, according to the Metropolitan Police.

- Chevrolet teases the C8 Corvette Grand Sport coming soon.

- BMW tuner AC Schnitzer will end its operations at the end of 2026.

- Long Beach GP boss Jim Michaelian dies at 83. US motorsports mourn Michaelian's loss.

- TV anime Hana Kimi renewed for Season 2.

- Medalist anime's movie hitting cinemas in 2027.

- CLOSE YOUR EYES announces their April comeback.

- AC Bonifacio confirms breakup with Harvey Bautista.

TTFN


Sunday, March 22, 2026

2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship - Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring

As spring begins, the 2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship was in Sebring with the Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race. From sunrise to pitch-black darkness, the top drivers from four classes competed not only to survive but also to excel in this legendary endurance race.

2026 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship - Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring
Screengrab from IMSA

Porsche's domination in Sebring remains solid with the #7 Porsche Penske Motorsport 963 the GTP winner, while the #2 United Autosports USA ORECA LMP2 07 won the LMP2 class, the #911 Manthey Porsche 911 GT3 R for the GTD PRO class, and the #21 AF CORSE USA 296 GT3 Evo for the GTD class.

The next race is the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach on April 18, 2026.

Saturday, March 21, 2026

ABB FIA Formula E S12 - Madrid E-Prix

The 12th season of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship is taking place in Spain for the CUPRA Raval Madrid E-Prix. It's important to note that the race is not being held at the site of the upcoming F1 Madrid Grand Prix; instead, they are racing at Circuit Jarama for the first time.

ABB FIA Formula E S12 - Madrid E-Prix
Screengrab from Formula E

Antonio Felix Da Costa led a 1-2 finish for Jaguar in Jarama, followed by Mitch Evans. Pascal Wehrlein from Porsche completed the Jarama podium by finishing in third place.

After the race in Spain, Pascal Wehrlein leads the championship standings with 83 points, followed by Edoardo Mortara from Mahindra in second with 72 points, and Mitch Evans from Jaguar in third with 65 points.

The next event is the two-part Berlin E-Prix this May 2-3, 2026.

Let's Do The News! (March 21, 2026)

                                     

Your daily round-up of today's news...

- China's extensive reclamation of Panganiban Reef within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone, condemned by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).

- The Commission on Elections (COMELEC) has assured that its preparations for the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) scheduled for November this year will continue. COMELEC Chairman George Erwin Garcia made this announcement after receiving information about plans to postpone the BSKE polls again.

- The PH Department of Health is targeting the purchase of over seven million doses of flu vaccine this year.

- The Trump administration announced that more US soldiers are heading to the Middle East.

- The United Kingdom has agreed to let the US forces use British bases to strike Iranian sites targeting the Straits of Hormuz.

- Dame Jenni Murray, who presented the BBC's Woman's Hour for over three decades, passed away.

- Opel joins Formula E for Season 13.

- The Audi Revolut F1 Team announced that Jonathan Wheatley will leave the team, with Mattia Binotto taking over as Team Principal.

- Legendary action star Chuck Norris passed away at age 86.

TTFN.

Renault Twingo IV

Renault's small city car, the Twingo, is back for its fourth generation after a two-year absence. This time, it is the most affordable option in the Renault E-TECH Electric lineup, positioned below the revived Renault 5.

2027 Renault Twingo
2027 Renault Twingo


2027 Renault Twingo
2027 Renault Twingo

The all-new Renault Twingo E-TECH starts at 15,870 Euros plus additional costs. Slotting below the revived Renault 5, it's the cheapest Renault EV you can buy. You can afford one compared to one of its main rivals, the Fiat 500e, and with such change, you can think of all the savings you can make with this reborn Twingo. Long story short, but let's talk about the basics.

2027 Renault Twingo
2027 Renault Twingo interior

The design of the 2024 concept Twingo draws inspiration from its first-generation model introduced in 1992. It’s reminiscent of the question, “What was the Twingo like in the 90s?” which many people often ponder. Unlike its 90s predecessor, the all-new model features a five-door design, as five-door hatchbacks are considered more appealing by today’s standards.

Inside, it features a 7" digital instrument cluster and a Google-powered 10" multimedia screen with smartphone connectivity and a little help from Renault's very own mascot, Reno. Of course, the touch screen features over a hundred downloadable apps to make use of, whether for information, connection, or just to kick back and unwind, whatever floats your boat.

While the design of the all-new Twingo's interior may be straightforward for a city car, the surrounding symbols resemble those found on a children's toy where you insert shapes. For a five-seater city car, this simplicity is quite fitting. In terms of space, the Twingo offers up to 305 liters of boot capacity, which is not too shabby.

2027 Renault Twingo


With an electric motor powering the front wheels and a 27.5kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, the Twingo's E-TECH Electric powertrain produces a measly 82PS of power, which is a tad less compared to the Fiat 500e. It will go from 0-100kph in 12.1 seconds and has a top speed of 130kph, less than most Japanese kei cars. As for the range, it's good for 263km, and it takes about 30 minutes to reach from 10% to 80% at a public charging station.

The Twingo E-TECH features a One Pedal function that enhances regenerative braking, allowing the vehicle to decelerate and stop when the driver releases the accelerator, without using the brake. This is especially helpful in traffic jams and at stops, promoting smoother urban driving. The One Pedal mode automatically deactivates in reverse and reactivates above 12 km/h.

With 24 driver assistance systems (ADAS) available, Twingo E-Tech electric is packed with technologies, many taken from segments further up the market, and primarily intended for urban use. They are available as part of the optional "Parking & Safety" pack.

Under Renault's Human First Program, the Twingo E-TECH features 12 front, side, and rear sensors that enable an advanced hands-free parking function. Drivers can easily find parking spaces through the OpenR Link system with Google built-in. Passengers benefit from the occupant safe exit alert when getting out, while the rear cross traffic alert warns of oncoming vehicles or cyclists. If the driver overlooks a stationary pedestrian or object, the rear automatic emergency braking system activates to prevent a collision. Additional driving aids include traffic sign recognition, lane keeping assistance, blind spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. Drivers can conveniently activate or deactivate five ADAS settings using the My Safety Switch located to the left of the steering wheel.

The all-new Renault Twingo E-TECH showcases a 90s-inspired design and a playful interior, along with city-proven dynamics that cater to everyday drivers. Packed with an extensive range of technology, this compact city car proves that Renault has successfully adapted to the era of electrification. While it may not deliver the same enjoyment as previous Twingo models and doesn't outperform its competitor, the Fiat 500e, the Twingo E-TECH still embraces its playful nature, providing satisfaction for drivers throughout the day. It's time to play with the Twingo again.

Available Colors: Rouge Absolu, Gris Schiste, Noir Étoile, Vert Absolu, Jaune Mango, and Blanc Glacier.

Photo: Renault