LOCATIONS
Diehl Automotive
Massillon, OH
Hermitage, PA
Butler, PA
Robinson, PA
Grove City, PA
Coraopolis, PA
Sharon, PA
Beaver Falls, PA
9 Locations
Pittsburgh, PA • Butler, PA • Robinson, PA • Grove City, PA • Washington, PA • Cranberry, PA • Ford City, PA • Hermitage, PA • Massillon, OH
As anticipation builds for the global debut of the 2027 Kia Telluride, Kia America is giving enthusiasts a tantalizing sneak peek—one that’s both mysterious and mesmerizing. On October 29, 2025, the automaker unveiled a custom camouflage Telluride, its bold wrap revealing just enough to hint at the SUV’s evolution while keeping its final form cleverly under wraps.
The camouflaged pre-production model, developed by Kia Design Center America (KDCA), recently tackled a rugged off-road trek in California’s Alabama Hills, a dramatic desert landscape known for its sweeping rock formations and cinematic backdrops. The action-packed footage highlights not only the Telluride’s off-road prowess but also Kia’s creative approach to automotive camouflage.
“We determined that hiding the all-new Telluride in plain sight could be done in a way that is both eye-catching and thought-provoking,” said Tom Kearns, Vice President and Senior Chief Designer at KDCA.
Unlike traditional black-and-white test wraps designed purely to obscure shape, Kia’s new design tells a story. Drawing inspiration from early design sketches of the Telluride, the wrap features intersecting outlines of the vehicle from multiple angles—overlapping silhouettes that blur and distort the SUV’s true proportions.
Stylistically, the team looked to artists Keith Haring and Mr. Doodle (Sam Cox), both known for transforming simple lines into intricate, energetic compositions. The result? A rolling piece of kinetic art that captures the creative spirit of the Telluride’s design process.
Adding to the visual intrigue is a color gradient that shifts from warm orange at the front to deep purple at the rear—a palette that ties together the Telluride’s dynamic front-end lighting and sculptural rear design. The contrasting hues embody Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy, where tension and balance coexist in every detail.
Hidden along the lower doors, sharp-eyed fans can spot subtle map coordinates (37.9375° N, 107.8123° W)—a nod to Telluride, Colorado, the SUV’s namesake and a symbol of adventure.
Introduced in 2021 by Karim Habib, Kia’s Opposites United design language takes inspiration from the dualities found in nature and humanity. It’s grounded in five key principles: Bold for Nature, Joy for Reason, Power to Progress, Technology for Life, and Tension for Serenity.
The camouflage wrap itself becomes a living expression of this philosophy—uniting the beginnings of the Telluride’s design journey with the finished product soon to be unveiled. “This wrap also ties the beginning and end of the design process together,” Kearns explained. “Which is Opposites United in itself.”
The Telluride has long been celebrated for its balance of rugged capability and refined comfort, and the 2027 model appears ready to elevate that legacy. In the newly released footage, the camouflaged SUV conquers steep inclines, rocky trails, sandy washes, and water crossings, proving its mettle in a real-world test that goes far beyond typical development drives.
“We wanted to do something special with this pre-production Telluride,” said Russell Wager, Vice President of Marketing at Kia America. “Placing it in an environment that really pushed the boundaries gave us the opportunity to show just how capable the all-new Telluride is.”
The camouflage Telluride offers an intriguing glimpse of what’s to come as Kia continues to redefine its design language and push the boundaries of SUV capability. The fully unveiled 2027 Kia Telluride will make its global debut on November 20 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, where the wraps will finally come off—revealing the next evolution of Kia’s flagship SUV.
Until then, Kia’s camouflaged masterpiece will continue to roam the roads less traveled, blending art, engineering, and adventure in one striking package.
Every year, Mopar brings its A-game to the SEMA Show in Las Vegas — the ultimate proving ground for creativity, craftsmanship, and raw horsepower. For 2025, the brand is turning heads with two bold street machine concepts that blend vintage inspiration with modern muscle: The Dude Ram 1500 Concept and the Moparized Dodge SIXPACK Charger Concept.
Mopar is resurrecting one of Dodge’s coolest sport truck packages from the early 1970s with The Dude — a HEMI®-powered Ram 1500 that channels the swagger of the original while amping up the performance and design for today’s streets.
Dressed in Sublime Green with classic black “C-stripes” running the length of the truck, The Dude is an unmistakable throwback that screams attitude. A lowered stance, satin-black 22-inch wheels, and side-exit exhausts give it a menacing street presence, while under the hood, a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 — paired with a Mopar cold-air intake — delivers a healthy 395 horsepower.
Inside, the contrast continues with Alea leather seats stitched in bright green, custom The Dude badging, and practical Mopar upgrades like a console safe, multi-accessory instrument panel rail, and all-weather mats. The result is a street truck that feels as cool and confident as the name suggests.
If The Dude is all about retro swagger, the Moparized Dodge SIXPACK Charger is pure modern muscle. Based on the all-new 2026 Dodge Charger, this concept turns up the performance dial with aggressive aerodynamics, bold colors, and a potent powertrain.
Coated in Stryker Purple with satin carbon-fiber accents, the SIXPACK Charger wears its performance pedigree proudly. A lightweight carbon-fiber hood, splitter, and spoiler, plus vented fenders, enhance aerodynamics and downforce. Custom Brass Monkey 21-inch wheels and orange Brembo brakes finish off the look with purpose-built flair.
Under the hood, Mopar packs the 3.0-liter Twin Turbo SIXPACK HO engine, delivering an impressive 550 horsepower. A Mopar cold-air intake and stainless-steel cat-back exhaust sharpen both performance and sound.
Inside, the SIXPACK Charger is just as refined, featuring Katzkin premium leather seats in Tuscany Ink and Palomino with orange and purple stitching. Mopar pedals and all-weather mats complete the cabin, balancing luxury with daily drivability.
Both concepts headline Mopar’s 15,000-plus-square-foot display at SEMA (Booth #44137, South Hall), alongside vehicles from Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep®, Ram, and even “Graveyard Carz” host Mark Worman. Mopar’s booth also features hundreds of factory-backed parts, accessories, and one-of-a-kind builds — including the return of fan favorites like the Kaiser Jeep M725 and the ’87 Dodge Ram D150 Roadkill Nights winner.
Fans visiting the Mopar booth on November 4 will also get a chance to meet NHRA stars Tony Stewart, Matt Hagan, and Leah Pruett, who’ll be signing autographs and celebrating Mopar’s continued dominance on and off the strip.
With The Dude and the SIXPACK Charger, Mopar continues its tradition of turning factory muscle into high-octane dreams. These builds are more than showpieces — they’re blueprints for how modern enthusiasts can inject personality, nostalgia, and performance into every inch of their rides.
At SEMA 2025, Mopar once again proves what gearheads already know: when it comes to street machines, nobody does bold like Mopar.
Subaru is making electric driving even more convenient. The automaker announced that all Subaru Solterra EV owners now have access to more than 25,000 Tesla Superchargers across North America, giving drivers faster and more flexible options for road trips and everyday charging.
Starting now, Subaru Solterra owners can locate and use Tesla Superchargers through the SubaruConnect app, which also lets drivers set up payment methods and find nearby stations using the Find Stations Map.
For 2026 Subaru Solterra EV models, Subaru has gone a step further by integrating the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port directly into the vehicle. This means no adapters are required—just plug in and charge at any compatible Tesla Supercharger.
Owners of 2023–2025 Solterra models won’t be left out, either. Subaru plans to offer a Genuine Subaru Accessory Fast Charging Adapter (NACS) soon through Subaru retailers. This official adapter ensures safe, efficient charging and opens access to the same growing network of DC fast chargers, including Tesla’s.
The 2026 Solterra also introduces Plug & Charge capability through SubaruConnect, allowing the car to automatically recognize itself at compatible chargers and begin charging—no card swipes or app logins needed. It’s the kind of convenience EV drivers have been asking for, and it’s now built right into Subaru’s flagship electric SUV.
Charging performance isn’t the only upgrade. When navigating to a DC fast charger, the 2026 Solterra EV can automatically precondition its battery to optimize charging speed—even in cold weather. Drivers can also activate this feature manually through the vehicle’s touchscreen menus.
Thanks to this system, the 2026 Solterra can charge up to 80% in about 28 minutes, helping reduce downtime during long trips. And with up to 288 miles of range, it’s built for everyday adventures and extended journeys alike.
With Supercharger access, streamlined payment options, and cutting-edge charging tech, Subaru is strengthening its place in the EV landscape. By joining Tesla’s Supercharger network, Solterra drivers now enjoy one of the largest and most reliable fast-charging infrastructures available—making it easier than ever to explore the great outdoors in Subaru style.
The 2026 Subaru Solterra EV is available now at Subaru retailers nationwide.
Mitsubishi Motors is accelerating its North American growth with the addition of two brand-new SUVs, marking a major step forward in the company’s Momentum 2030 business plan. Building on its May 2025 announcement of an upcoming battery-electric SUV, Mitsubishi has now confirmed a second new vehicle — a rugged, off-road-focused variant of the Outlander — set to launch in late 2026.
The first of Mitsubishi’s new additions will be an all-new battery-electric vehicle (BEV), arriving in the U.S. market in summer 2026. Designed as part of Mitsubishi’s path toward electrification, the new BEV SUV represents the brand’s next leap into the rapidly growing electric segment.
Following close behind will be an off-road-focused Outlander variant, a rugged SUV designed to capture Mitsubishi’s adventurous spirit and long history in off-road performance. Launching in late calendar year 2026, the new model will feature:
The company says this new variant will take inspiration from its success in motorsport, including 12 Dakar Rally victories and experience in the World Rally Championship, to deliver a family SUV that’s ready to go far beyond the pavement.
These vehicle launches are part of Momentum 2030, Mitsubishi Motors North America’s long-term roadmap focused on four key areas:
Mitsubishi’s President and CEO Mark Chaffin emphasized that these announcements show tangible progress on the plan.
“Two exciting announcements to discuss upcoming vehicle launches proves the strength of our Momentum 2030 business plan,” said Chaffin. “When we announced the plan publicly, we set ambitious goals for ourselves — and we’re delivering on them.”
He also noted that Mitsubishi’s network of nearly 330 U.S. dealerships continues to expand, with growing interest from major dealer groups nationwide.
Mitsubishi’s new vehicles will join a refreshed lineup that includes the 2025 Outlander, an updated Outlander Plug-in Hybrid, and a new mild-hybrid powertrain coming in the 2026 model year. Every Mitsubishi vehicle in the U.S. continues to be backed by the company’s signature coverage, including:
With these two new models, Mitsubishi Motors is clearly positioning itself for a bold new chapter in North America. The combination of cutting-edge electrification and rugged off-road capability highlights the brand’s dual commitment to sustainability and adventure.
More details on both upcoming SUVs — including official names, technical specs, pricing, and availability — will be shared closer to launch.
If you’re looking for a high-performance electric SUV that blends heritage, technology, and daily practicality, the 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT delivers on all fronts. Bearing the iconic Mustang nameplate, this all-electric SUV represents Ford’s continued commitment to electrification while staying true to the spirit of performance and style that has defined the Mustang legacy for decades.
At the heart of the 2026 Mustang Mach-E GT lies a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain designed for serious performance. Ford estimates an output of around 480 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque, while the available Performance Upgrade Package pushes torque closer to 700 lb-ft. The result? A blistering 0–60 mph time between 3.3 and 3.6 seconds, depending on conditions — putting the Mach-E GT firmly in the conversation with other high-end electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y Performance and Kia EV6 GT.
The Mach-E GT’s 91 kWh battery pack delivers an estimated 280 miles of range, which is impressive given its performance focus. Ford’s DC fast-charging capability allows for 10–80% battery replenishment in about 38 minutes, making it a practical option for road trips and daily commutes alike.
Visually, the 2026 Mustang Mach-E GT stands out with its bold stance and signature Mustang cues. Its aggressive front fascia, fastback-inspired roofline, and tri-bar LED taillights give it an unmistakable connection to the traditional Mustang lineage. For 2026, Ford introduces a special GT California Special Edition, featuring Rave Blue accents, carbonized gray 20-inch wheels, an illuminated pony badge, and exclusive interior trim — all inspired by classic California car culture.
Inside, the Mach-E GT continues to impress. The cabin combines sport-inspired design with modern tech, featuring Ford’s SYNC® 4A infotainment system displayed on a massive 15.5-inch touchscreen. Drivers can choose from various drive modes like Whisper, Engage, and Unbridle — each altering steering response, throttle sensitivity, and ambient lighting for a personalized driving experience. High-quality materials, bolstered sport seats, and customizable lighting make the interior feel both futuristic and familiar.
While the Mach-E GT emphasizes performance, it also delivers the practicality you expect from a Ford SUV. Thanks to its skateboard-style battery layout, the interior offers ample passenger and cargo space. Rear passengers enjoy generous legroom, and the absence of a transmission tunnel adds to the cabin’s sense of openness. Cargo capacity is enhanced by both a rear hatch area and a front “frunk,” perfect for stowing smaller items.
Range estimates for the broader Mach-E lineup vary between 260 and 320 miles, depending on the trim and drivetrain configuration. The GT’s 280-mile range strikes a strong balance between spirited driving and everyday usability, making it a solid choice for those seeking a Ford electric vehicle that doesn’t compromise on excitement or practicality.
Ford continues to push boundaries in connected vehicle technology, and the 2026 Mustang Mach-E GT is no exception. Over-the-air software updates keep the vehicle’s features up to date, while the FordPass® app allows drivers to monitor charging, locate stations, and even pre-condition the cabin remotely. Advanced driver-assist systems — including BlueCruise hands-free driving on compatible highways — further enhance convenience and safety.
The 2026 Mustang Mach-E GT demonstrates how far Ford vehicles have evolved in the electric era. It’s not just about efficiency — it’s about preserving performance DNA while adapting to the EV revolution. Alongside models like the F-150 Lightning and upcoming next-gen Ford EVs, the Mach-E GT cements Ford’s reputation as a leader in accessible, performance-oriented electric mobility.
If you’re searching online for Ford EVs, Mustang Mach-E specs, or Ford electric performance SUVs, the 2026 Mach-E GT is a name worth knowing. It embodies the best of both worlds — the thrill of a Mustang and the innovation of an all-electric Ford.
General Motors (GM) is driving into the future with a groundbreaking new centralized vehicle computing platform that will power both electric and gas-powered vehicles across its lineup — including Chevy and Cadillac models. The new system, launching first with the Cadillac ESCALADE IQ in 2028, redefines how GM vehicles are built, updated, and enhanced over time.
GM’s new architecture represents a fundamental reimagining of how vehicle software, electronics, and performance work together. By consolidating dozens of control units into a single, powerful computing core, GM will unlock unprecedented levels of performance, reliability, and flexibility across both Cadillac luxury SUVs and Chevy trucks, sedans, and EVs.
This centralized computing platform simplifies design and boosts reliability, while allowing faster over-the-air updates — so your Chevy Silverado EV or Cadillac LYRIQ can receive new features and system upgrades without ever visiting a dealership.
Already, GM has more than 4.5 million vehicles capable of receiving these updates, with an additional two million joining that network each year.
Imagine your Chevy Trailblazer or Cadillac CT5 responding instantly to remote commands, learning from your driving patterns, and delivering updates that make every ride smoother and safer. That’s the power of GM’s new computing platform.
With 1,000 times more bandwidth and a 10x increase in software update capacity, GM’s upcoming system ensures drivers stay connected with next-generation infotainment, safety, and autonomous driving technologies.
At the heart of this system is a liquid-cooled central compute unit powered by next-generation processors like NVIDIA Thor — the same kind of technology powering advanced AI systems. This core orchestrates everything from propulsion to braking, infotainment, and safety systems through a high-speed Ethernet backbone.
Whether you drive a Chevy Equinox EV or a Cadillac Escalade IQL, GM’s new architecture will deliver seamless performance and long-term upgradeability. The platform is propulsion-agnostic, supporting both electric and gas-powered vehicles — meaning innovation developed for one model can be scaled rapidly across the lineup.
GM’s new design also isolates hardware from the software layer, offering “hardware freedom.” This allows GM to update or swap out parts like cameras, brake actuators, or displays without rewriting the core software — keeping vehicles future-ready and reducing maintenance costs.
With up to 35 times more AI computing power and double the infotainment performance, this platform lays the groundwork for features like hands-free driving, real-time safety updates, and continuously evolving entertainment experiences.
As Chevy and Cadillac move toward an era of intelligent mobility, this technology ensures every GM vehicle remains connected, responsive, and upgradeable — from your favorite Chevy accessories to the most advanced Cadillac driver-assistance systems.
GM’s centralized computing platform marks a major leap toward a smarter, more connected future — one where Chevy and Cadillac vehicles don’t just perform better but get better over time.
Cars that learn and improve, architectures that deliver real-time intelligence, and platforms that merge digital innovation with automotive craftsmanship — that’s the promise of GM’s next-generation computing revolution.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has always been more than an SUV — it’s a symbol of adventure, capability, and refinement. For 2026, America’s most awarded SUV enters a bold new chapter, powered by the all-new Hurricane 4 Turbo engine. This next-generation propulsion system doesn’t just promise efficiency — it redefines what a turbocharged four-cylinder can do in a full-size SUV.
Jeep’s new 2.0-liter Hurricane 4 Turbo headlines the 2026 Grand Cherokee’s updates, bringing cutting-edge performance technology to a nameplate that helped define the modern SUV. Delivering 324 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, the Hurricane 4 Turbo produces a segment-leading 162 horsepower per liter — on regular unleaded gasoline.
That’s not just impressive on paper. With an estimated 506-mile driving range and a 6,200-pound towing capacity, this new engine offers both power and practicality — hallmarks of the Grand Cherokee legacy.
But the real magic lies under the hood, where Jeep engineers have introduced the industry’s first high-volume application of Turbulent Jet Ignition technology. In simple terms, this motorsport-inspired system ignites a small amount of fuel in a pre-chamber above each cylinder. The resulting jets of burning fuel ensure a faster, cleaner, and more efficient combustion. The result? More power, better fuel economy, and lower emissions — all without compromise.
A variable geometry turbocharger ensures immediate throttle response and strong torque across a broad powerband, with 90% of peak torque available between 2,600 and 5,600 rpm. Whether you’re climbing mountain trails or merging onto the freeway, the Hurricane 4 Turbo delivers torque on demand.
“The Hurricane 4 Turbo exceeds the high expectations that Grand Cherokee owners have for power, performance, and refinement — while adding the benefit of enhanced fuel economy,” said Micky Bly, Stellantis Senior Vice President, Head of Propulsion Systems Engineering.
The Hurricane 4 Turbo will be built right here in the U.S., at Stellantis’ Dundee Engine Plant in Michigan, underscoring Jeep’s commitment to American manufacturing.
Beyond its new heart, the 2026 Grand Cherokee introduces subtle yet impactful design and technology upgrades. Up front, a refreshed seven-slot grille and new headlight and fascia designs give the SUV a modernized, confident face. Three new paint options — Steel Blue, Copper Shino, and Fathom Blue — add to the personalization palette.
Inside, a new 12.3-inch infotainment system headlines a tech-forward cabin that balances rugged durability with premium comfort. Available features include a 10.25-inch front passenger display, Active Driving Assist, and an immersive 19-speaker McIntosh audio system — the most available speakers in its class.
New trim materials, from Oak and Liquid Chrome to Nappa and Palermo leathers, continue Jeep’s focus on craftsmanship and luxury, especially in the top-tier Summit trim.
Jeep has simplified the 2026 Grand Cherokee lineup to three trims — Laredo, Limited, and Summit — making it easier than ever to find the right fit.
The all-new Laredo Altitude serves as the entry point for the Hurricane 4 Turbo powertrain, featuring standard 4×4 capability via Jeep’s Selec-Terrain system, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, premium audio, and a host of advanced driver assistance features like Traffic Sign Recognition and Intersection Collision Assist.
The Limited trim builds on that foundation with leatherette upholstery, heated second-row seats, a nine-speaker Alpine audio system, and available packages such as the Limited Reserve and Limited Altitude, which add luxury and style touches like a panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather, and black 20-inch wheels.
At the top, the Summit trim takes Grand Cherokee luxury to its peak with Palermo leather seats, massaging front seats, a Quadra-Trac II 4×4 system, and adaptive air suspension, delivering both comfort and off-road prowess.
Jeep hasn’t forgotten about powertrain diversity. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 continues to power base trims, while the Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid remains available for those seeking electrified efficiency without giving up off-road capability. The 4xe lineup includes the rugged Trailhawk, which offers 470 lb-ft of torque and best-in-class range.
For larger families, the Grand Cherokee L returns with three-row seating and expanded technology, offering best-in-class second-row legroom and passenger space.
The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee is part of Jeep’s ambitious product offensive, arriving alongside the all-new Cherokee, Grand Wagoneer, and the all-electric Recon later this year. Production of the Grand Cherokee will continue at Jeep’s Detroit Assembly Complex – Jefferson and Mack plants. Pricing will be announced closer to its late-2025 launch.
After more than three decades of setting the standard for SUVs, the Grand Cherokee continues to evolve — now powered by a Hurricane that promises to blow the competition away.
When it comes to Halloween and horror films, it’s not just the monsters and masked killers that stick with us—sometimes, it’s the cars they drive. From ghostly cruisers to murderous machines, horror cinema has given us some unforgettable vehicles that have earned their place in pop culture history. Whether they’re stalking babysitters or running people off the road, these cars are characters in their own right.
Here are 7 of the most iconic cars from Halloween and horror movies that still haunt our imaginations:
Movie: Halloween (1978)
Driver: Michael Myers
Why It’s Iconic:
The first car Michael steals after his escape from Smith’s Grove Sanitarium, this beige station wagon creeps slowly through suburban streets, mirroring the killer’s silent and relentless nature. It’s not flashy—but it’s unforgettable in the context of stalking terror.
Movie: Christine (1983)
Driver: The car itself
Why It’s Iconic:
This blood-red beauty is more than just a ride—it’s a jealous, murderous force of nature. Directed by John Carpenter and based on Stephen King’s novel, Christine made us all think twice about getting too attached to our cars.
Movie: Death Proof (2007)
Driver: Stuntman Mike
Why It’s Iconic:
A modern slasher vehicle for a modern grindhouse film. Tarantino’s Death Proof gave us a black Chevy Nova reinforced to be “death proof”—but only for the driver. Its creepy skull decal and roaring engine turned every car chase into a horror sequence.
Movie: The Car (1977)
Driver: No one (literally)
Why It’s Iconic:
This custom-designed beast rolls into town without a driver, possessed by evil itself. With its menacing black frame and eerie horn, The Car is what happens when your vehicle hates humanity.
Movie: Ghostbusters (1984)
Driver: The Ghostbusters
Why It’s Iconic:
Okay, it’s not exactly horror—but what’s Halloween without Ghostbusters? The Ecto-1, with its sirens and DIY paranormal gear, is one of the most beloved cinematic vehicles ever. It’s spooky, retro, and completely unforgettable.
Movie: Evil Dead (1981) and sequels
Driver: Ash Williams
Why It’s Iconic:
This car is director Sam Raimi’s signature and appears in nearly all of his films. In Evil Dead, it’s Ash’s ride into the woods of doom. Over the years, the “Classic” has become a symbol of campy, chaotic horror.
Show: Buffy the Vampire Slayer (late ’90s)
Driver: Spike
Why It’s Iconic:
Though not from a movie, we’re sneaking this one in. Spike’s sinister black Dodge Charger fit his rebellious, undead vibe perfectly. A stylish ride for a vampire with attitude.
The Munsters’ Koach – from The Munsters
Dragula – Grandpa Munster’s coffin-shaped hot rod
The Mystery Machine – from Scooby-Doo (not horror, but come on, it’s Halloween royalty)
In 1975, amid an oil crisis, economic uncertainty, and growing environmental concerns, Ford quietly launched what would become one of the most iconic vehicles in American history: the F-150. There were no fireworks, no lavish unveilings, and barely a mention at that year’s Detroit Auto Show. Yet, from such humble beginnings emerged a truck that would dominate U.S. sales for nearly half a century.
The 1970s were a challenging decade for automakers. Emission regulations were tightening, fuel costs were climbing, and buyers were rethinking what they needed from a vehicle. Ford responded with innovation and foresight.
In 1975, alongside the addition of catalytic converters to meet new emission standards, Ford introduced a new model that slotted between the F-100 and F-250: the F-150. With a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 6,050 pounds—significantly more than the F-100’s 5,500—it offered the rugged capability of a heavy-duty pickup without sacrificing the comfort and drivability that everyday truck owners wanted.
At the time, this “inbetweener” didn’t seem like a revolutionary move. It was practical. Sensible. Even understated. But those very qualities helped it strike the perfect balance between work and play—a sweet spot that American drivers didn’t even know they were waiting for.
Looking back, it’s almost shocking how little fanfare the F-150 received at its debut. In Ford’s own press materials for the 1975 Detroit Auto Show, the F-150 barely earned a mention. Instead, the spotlight went to the newly redesigned Econoline Van, a replica of Ford’s historic “999” race car, and even a talking robot named Freddie Ford.
The product planning minutes from 1973—the year the F-150 was approved by Henry Ford II—reflect the same quiet tone. There was no bold proclamation of a new era in trucks, no sign that this model would soon become Ford’s crown jewel.
Yet, within just two years, the F-Series lineup—with the F-150 leading the charge—became the best-selling truck line in America. A title it has held since 1977.
Over the decades, the F-150 has evolved from a tough, no-nonsense workhorse into a technological powerhouse—without ever losing sight of its roots. Each generation brought innovation: improved engines, advanced safety features, smarter towing systems, and, most recently, electrification.
In 2021, Ford introduced the F-150 Lightning, an all-electric version of the classic truck. It arrived with the most torque of any F-150 in history, an innovative “frunk” (front trunk), and the ability to power a home in an emergency. The Lightning proved that even in the age of EVs, Ford’s flagship truck could stay true to its hardworking DNA while embracing the future.
And Ford hasn’t forgotten its past. For the 75th anniversary of the F-Series in 2023, the company released a Heritage Edition F-150, featuring a nostalgic two-tone “A-B-A” paint scheme—a modern tribute to the earliest generations of the truck that started it all.
The F-150’s 50-year story is one of quiet confidence and enduring strength. It didn’t need a flashy debut or a celebrity endorsement to win America’s heart. Instead, it earned its reputation mile by mile, job by job, and generation by generation.
As Ford celebrates this milestone, the F-150 stands as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and trust—proof that sometimes, greatness doesn’t need an introduction.
Happy 50th Anniversary to the Ford F-150 — the truck that defined American grit and continues to drive its future.
October 27, 2025 marks a remarkable milestone for one of the most influential names in the U.S. automotive landscape: Volkswagen of America (VWoA). From the humble beginnings of two Beetles arriving on a New York dock in 1949 to becoming a symbol of innovation and culture, Volkswagen’s 70-year journey in America tells the story of reinvention, resilience, and a deep connection with drivers across generations.
Volkswagen’s American story began with a vision. In 1949, Dutch businessman Ben Pon brought two Type 1 vehicles—later affectionately known as the Beetle—to the U.S., introducing Americans to an entirely new concept: a small, affordable, reliable car with personality. Six years later, on October 27, 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. officially opened its doors in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. Within a year, nearly 50,000 Beetles had been sold.
That little car with the big personality quickly became more than transportation—it became a cultural icon.
In the late 1950s, VWoA’s new president, Carl Hahn, and the advertising agency Doyle Dane Bernbach (DDB) took an unconventional approach that changed marketing forever. Their “Think Small” campaign flipped traditional car advertising on its head with simplicity, wit, and honesty. The campaign didn’t just sell cars—it reshaped how Americans thought about them.
By 1960, Volkswagen had doubled deliveries to 167,000 vehicles and captured 32% of the import market. A decade later, sales peaked at 569,696 vehicles, with the Beetle and Microbus becoming emblems of freedom, individuality, and counterculture.
In 1999, Ad Age honored “Think Small” as the greatest advertising campaign of the 20th century, a testament to its lasting influence on both marketing and popular culture.
Few automakers can claim as many beloved models as Volkswagen.
Together, these vehicles have shaped how Americans drive, think, and feel about cars.
Volkswagen’s U.S. manufacturing legacy began in 1978, when it opened its first assembly plant in Westmoreland, Pennsylvania, producing over 1.1 million vehicles before closing in 1988.
Two decades later, Volkswagen returned to U.S. manufacturing in a big way. In 2008, the company broke ground on a state-of-the-art assembly facility in Chattanooga, Tennessee, marking a renewed commitment to American workers and innovation.
Today, that $2.7 billion campus employs over 4,000 people and builds the Atlas, Atlas Cross Sport, and ID.4 SUV. It’s also home to the North American Engineering and Planning Center and Battery Engineering Lab, reinforcing Volkswagen’s leadership in electric mobility and sustainable manufacturing.
“For 70 years, Volkswagen has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to American drivers and the cars they love,” said Kjell Gruner, President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America. “The VW family has grown from the first imported Beetles to fit families of all shapes and sizes, always with the original mission of the brand—to be the people’s car.”
From the Beetle to the Buzz, Volkswagen’s journey in America has been a story of connection—between drivers, design, and a shared belief that cars can be more than machines; they can be part of our lives.
As VWoA celebrates its 70th anniversary, it looks ahead to a future driven by electric innovation, sustainability, and the same pioneering spirit that started it all.
