Updated

Updated · Vocal · Jun 25

U.S. Auto Industry Loses Up to 49 HP as Efficiency Push Erodes Reliability and Driving Fun

Updated

Updated · Vocal · Jun 25

U.S. Auto Industry Loses Up to 49 HP as Efficiency Push Erodes Reliability and Driving Fun

1 articles · Updated · Vocal · Jun 25

A broad shift toward fuel economy and emissions compliance has left many U.S.-market cars less powerful, less engaging and more failure-prone, even as sales and profits remain steady.
Power cuts show up across mainstream models: the Honda Civic Si fell to 200 hp from 205, the Accord dropped to 252 hp from a 278-hp V6, and the Camry slid to 252 hp from 301.
That efficiency drive also adds turbochargers, hybrids, sensors and CVTs, increasing mechanical complexity and shrinking the margin for error when components fail.
Driving feel has weakened alongside the hardware changes, with electric steering, CVTs and heavier sound insulation making newer cars more competent but more sterile.
The report argues automakers can still balance efficiency with enjoyment—citing Mazda's Skyactiv lineup and Porsche's 911—as regulation and electrification reshape the industry.

Sources

As drivers increasingly favor hybrids over EVs, how will automakers redefine the meaning of a fun-to-drive car?

Automakers blame regulations for killing driving passion, but is a lack of engineering creativity the real problem?

With cars becoming 'smartphones on wheels,' is the simple pleasure of driving destined to become a luxury for the few?

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