đŸ”„ A Spark d'Elegance

Driving the conversation: News, trends, and events for car enthusiasts

Welcome

Grab your sunglasses, colorful blazers and big hats - its La Jolla Concours D’elegance weekend. Or if you’re an average pedestrian like the rest of us, avoid tanning your cheeks at Black’s Beach this weekend.

Here’s what else is happening:

  • Updates on the next-gen Nissan GT-R đŸŽïž

  • Porsche set another record at the ‘Ring 🏁

  • A car for the 007 of the West Coast 💰

Industry News

What’s Going on at Mazda?

Mercedes-Benz

Mazda is cautiously entering the electric vehicle (EV) market, planning to introduce 7–8 new EVs by 2030. CEO Masahiro Moro describes this approach as being an "intentional follower," acknowledging the current slow pace of EV adoption and consumer hesitation.

To manage costs and accelerate development, Mazda is collaborating with Toyota, leveraging shared software and battery technologies. This partnership is expected to reduce development investments by up to 80%.

In the U.S., Mazda's EV presence has been minimal, with the MX-30 being discontinued after 2023. However, the company is focusing on hybrids and plug-in hybrids, like the CX-50 and CX-90, which have seen strong sales. There has also been mention of bringing back the rotary engine, but execs worry if it can compete in the current market.

Looking ahead, Mazda plans to launch its first new EVs between 2025 and 2027, starting with crossovers. By 2030, the company aims for EVs to comprise 25–40% of its global sales, adapting to market demands while maintaining its reputation for quality and driving enjoyment.

Other News
  • Execs claim that a next-gen Nissan GT-R is on it’s way. It will be adding a hybrid powertrain and expected to come in the next 3-5 years. Read More

  • Ford announces two recalls this week, for the older F150s and Expeditions, as well as the 2025 Explorers Read More

  • Enthusiast rejoice! Mazda is sticking to its small, lightweight, and stick shift formula for the next-gen Miata.   Read More

  • Once again, Tesla delays its upcoming cheaper Model Y variant due to tariffs and shifting focus on “Cybercab” robotaxi. Read More

Fast Lane

Quick Entertainment

Take a break to enjoy these interesting clips from this past week:

  • Watch: Porsche 911 GT3 RS Weissach set new NĂŒrburgring record for manual cars.

  • Look: Hennessey are finished testing their 2,031-hp F5 Evolution.

  • Read: JDM barn find in Dubai, set to be restored one-by-one.

Local Listings

Because who doesn’t like looking at cars they shouldn’t (or can’t) buy.

Redline European

Top Pick of the Week: 2016 Aston Martin Vanquish Volante

Price: $128,888 Milage: 9,810
With an original MSRP of nearly $340,000, you don’t have to worry about taking the depreciation hit so hard if you want to feel like the James Bond of the California coast. Contact Dealer→

Other Listings:

Have a cool car for sale? Email us at [email protected] to get listed.

What’s Happening

Friday, April 25

Saturday, April 26

  • Bonita Cars & Coffee, 6am-9am

  • Carlsbad Cars & Coffee, 7am-9am

  • Point Loma Cars & Coffee, 7:30am-10am

  • Rancho Santa Fe Cars & Coffee, 8am-12pm

  • South OC Cars & Coffee, 9am-11am

Sunday, April 27

  • La Mesa Cars & Coffee, 7:30am-9am

  • Sunday Funday Cars & Coffee, 7:30am-10am

  • Escondido Cars & Coffee, Photography Week, 8am-12pm

Have an event coming up? Let us know at [email protected] to be featured!

Final Thoughts

We Want to Hear From You!

Have any recommendations? We’re always looking to improve, if you have any feedback, email us at [email protected]. 

Stay tuned, and keep the spark alive!

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