Volkswagen Group has returned to global growth in January, despite the effects of the ongoing emissions scandal.

Group sales were up by 3.7 percent to 847,800 units worldwide, representing an increase of approximately 30,000 vehicles. The rebound was primarily driven by a 14-percent jump in China, where an extra 51,000 deliveries helped offset trouble in the US, Brazil and Russia.

“Developments on world markets at the beginning of the year are mixed,” said CEO Matthias Mueller. “The situation in Brazil and Russia remains tense, China is regaining momentum and the trend in Europe is generally stable.”

Porsche was the fastest growing brand, posting a 24-percent increase compared to January 2015, while VW and Audi deliveries rose by 2.8 and 4.0 percent, respectively.

The diesel emissions scandal has been particularly troublesome in the US market, resulting in a five-percent slide for 2015 overall. The trend continued into 2016 with January sales down by 7.0 percent in the market.

BMW has introduced the M760i xDrive, an M Performance variant of the large luxury sedan.

The M-badged 7-Series has been outfitted with a twin-turbocharged 6.6-liter V12 engine, apparently borrowed from the Rolls Royce Ghost and Wraith. Preliminary specs point to 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, available as low as 1,500 rpm. The figures represent an increase of 56 ponies and 37 lb-ft of twist over the standard 6.0-liter mill.

BMW suggests the large luxury sedan is capable of launching to 62 mph from a stop in just 3.9 seconds, eventually hitting the speed limiter at 155 mph. The production car could be even quicker than promised, as previous rumors pointed to around 624 horsepower for the M760i or 600 horsepower for the long-wheelbase edition.

Notably, the preliminary output estimates are no higher than the new Alpina B7 xDrive. The Alpina opts for a 4.4-liter V8 with 20psi of boost, rather than the larger V12 powerplant. Its max 590 lb-ft of torque is available only from 3,000 rpm, though it is still quicker than the M760i — 3.6 seconds to 60 mph and capable of reaching 193 mph.

The M760i is distinguished by an M aerodynamic package with larger air intakes, Cerium Grey trim, active louvers in the kidney grille and 20-inch double-spoke wheels, among other visual tweaks.

The M760i xDrive is slated to arrive early next year. An MSRP will be announced closer to launch.

Toyota has introduced a new off-road Tacoma package tuned by the company’s TRD division.

The TRD Pro edition offers even more all-terrain features than the existing TRD Sport and TRD Off Road trim. The package centers around ruggedized suspension system with 2.5-inch FOX internal-bypass shocks, one-inch lifted front springs and progressive-rate rear leaf springs.

Like the TRD Pro Tundra and 4Runner, the new Tacoma variant also brings a long list of exterior enhancements. The package is distinguished by black 16-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain Goodyear Wrangler tires and an aluminum front skidplate. Black elements further reinforce the look, along with a throwback TOYOTA logo on the front grille.

The new Tacoma TRD Pro can be purchased with either a six-speed automatic or six-speed manual gearbox with a clutch start-cancel switch. Either drivetrain includes a 4WDemand part-time four-wheel-drive system with an electronically-actuated limited-slip differential, while the automatic transmission has been outfitted with an ATF cooler. A power-steering cooler, Class-IV hitch, upgraded alternator and trailer-sway controller are also standard.

The Tacoma TRD Pro is slated to join the 2017 model year this fall. Pricing will likely be announced closer to market arrival.

Live images by Brian Williams.

Mercedes-Benz is having a little fun at the Chicago auto show with the introduction of its Sprinter Extreme concept truck. Mercedes’ Sprinter Extreme was co-developed with tuning firm RENNtech.

The Extreme concept started out life as a standard-issue Sprinter 3500 Cab Chassis. The cab was treated to a new roof rack equipped with six forward-facing spotlights. Additional lights were added to the side of the rack. A brush guard and winch were also fitted to the Sprinter’s front end.

Next, the Sprinter Extreme was given a suspension lift and six off-road tires with beadlock wheels inspired by the Mercedes G Wagon. A set of custom fender flares were fabricated to accommodate the Sprinter’s additional suspension travel. To finish off the look, the Sprinter Extreme was given exhaust stacks and a unique vinyl wrap.

The rear end of the Sprinter Extreme features a Scattolini ScattoMaax “Tipper Bed” capable of dumping 5,200 pounds of payload to the side or the rear.

The Sprinter’s standard 2.1L turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine hasn’t been modified for the Extreme treatment, but even in stock form the truck is capable of towing 7,500 pounds and carrying up to 6,200 pounds of payload.

Although Mercedes has no plans to put the Sprinter Extreme into regular production, the company notes that the rig could be recreated through its MasterUpfitter program.

“The Sprinter Cab Chassis is the most capable heavy-duty vehicle in its segment,” said Bernie Glaser, Vice President of Mercedes-Benz Vans in the USA. “The Sprinter Extreme concept has super-strength, unlimited hard-working capability and an aggressive design. Unlike most concepts, the foundation for the Sprinter Extreme can be ordered at a Mercedes or Freightliner dealership today with the help of our MasterUpfitter program.”

Live images by Brian Williams.

Hyundai has updated its Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport, launching mid-cycle facelifts for the 2017 model year.

Revealed at the Chicago Auto Show, the refreshed crossovers both feature a redesigned front fascia with a larger brushed-finish hexagonal grille. LED daytime running lights are available on certain packages, while the Santa Fe offers optional LED fog lights.

Designers have also revamped the rear end, adding new taillights and dual-outlet exhaust tips. Other changes include silver rocker-panel accents and new designs for 17-, 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Base models will feature a five-inch infotainment system, while the three-row Santa Fe comes standard with a larger seven-inch system with Android Auto. Buyers can also opt for an eight-inch touchscreen, Infinity premium audio, or Blue Link system.

The Santa Fe lineup now offers Hyundai’s latest safety technologies including a multi-view camera system, smart cruise control with start/stop, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking and dynamic bending lights. The company also expects to earn a Top Safety Pick+ rating for both models.

The 2017 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport are already on their way to showrooms across the country. It is unclear if the company has increased its respective MSRPs for either model.

Live images by Brian Williams.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Ram truck division has unveiled an updated version of its Power Wagon off-road pickup at the 2016 Chicago auto show.

Still based on the Ram 2500 Heavy Duty 4×4 Crew Cab, the 2017 Power Wagon features a number of visual enhancements for the new model year. Up front the 2017 Power Wagon receives a new grille inspired by the Ram Rebel. Projector headlamps with LED marker lights are also part of the update.

In a nod to the Power Wagons from the late 1970s, the 2017 Power Wagon gets a vertical stripe just aft of the cab with “Power Wagon” in rotated font. The stripe is available in gloss black or bright silver, depending on the truck’s exterior paint color.

There is no mistaking the Ram Power Wagon for anything else when viewing the truck from behind thanks to badging that takes up most of the rear tailgate. The back of the truck also features a black powder-coated bumper and taillights with black bezels.

The Power Wagon rides on new-look 17-inch wheels for 2017, complete with 33-inch off-road rubber. The Power Wagon rides two-inches higher than the standard version of the truck.

The Power Wagon’s interior design hasn’t changed much from last year, but Ram says the truck’s cabin has been upgraded with better materials. The Power Wagon’s standard cloth seats feature a tire pattern that perfectly matches the truck’s standard Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac tires. Leather seats remain an option. A black headliner is also new for 2017.

The 2017 Power Wagon is powered by Ram’s 410 horsepower, 429 lb-ft of torque 6.4L HEMI V8. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only gearbox available. Ram says the Power Wagon can tow up to 10,030 pounds and is capable of hauling a payload up to 1,510 pounds.

Of course the Power Wagon is all about off-road use and continues to shine in that area thanks to a beefed up suspension with a disconnecting sway bar that helps with articulation. The Power Wagon also employs front and rear electronic-locking differentials. However, if you do manage to get stuck in the muck, the Power Wagon comes standard with a 12,000 pound winch.

“The Ram Power Wagon is an off-road, all-access pass, removing the limitations, instilling confidence and allowing owners to reach areas of recreation and lifestyle not attainable with any other pickup,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand and Ram Brand, FCA – Global. “The 2017 Ram Power Wagon delivers to those who travel into extreme terrain, while providing the towing and payload capability required in a heavy-duty truck.”

The 2017 Ram Power Wagon is scheduled to go into production during the fourth quarter of 2016. Pricing will be announced closer to the truck’s market launch.

Live images by Brian Williams. Video courtesy of Ram.

Chevrolet’s heritage-laced 1LE package is returning to the Camaro lineup for the 2017 model year.

Offered on both V8- and V6-powered cars for the first time, the optional 1LE package is designed primarily for buyers who occasionally want to hit the track. V6-powered cars benefit from a sportier ride thanks to a firmer suspension, four-piston Brembo brakes, a mechanical limited-slip differential, and 20-inch alloy wheels wrapped by Goodyear Eagle F1 tires. Chevrolet has also added a dual exhaust system and a fuel system borrowed from the SS.

The list of options includes Recaro bucket seats for the front passengers, and the Performance Data Recorder that’s already available on the Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac’s hot-rodded ATS-V and CTS-V models.

When ordered with a V8, the 1LE package also brings Magnetic Ride Control, an electronic limited-slip differential, and six-piston Brembo brakes. V8-powered cars come standard with Recaro buckets, but the Performance Data Recorder remains on the list of extra-cost options.

The package doesn’t bring any major mechanical modifications, and it can’t be ordered with the 2.0-liter four-banger. The Camaro is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that makes 335 horsepower, while the Camaro SS ups the ante with a 6.2-liter V8 tuned to generate 455 horsepower. Visually, cars ordered with the 1LE package are distinguishable by a racing-inspired satin black hood that reduces glare, a front splitter, and a specific three-piece spoiler out back.

The 1LE package will be available on all V6- and V8-powered 2017 Camaros fitted with a manual transmission starting this fall. Chevrolet will publish pricing and performance information in the weeks leading up to the package’s on-sale date.

Live images by Brian Williams.

Tesla Motors has reportedly agreed to tweak its Summon feature after Consumer Reports raised a safety concern.

The system allows a driver to remotely ‘summon’ the vehicle from or into a tight garage or parking space. The Model S will drive itself in and out, as long as the driver is within a distance of 10 feet from the vehicle.

“As we used the system, we became concerned that, in an emergency, a user might not be able stop the car right away if they were to press the wrong part of the key fob (the buttons are not marked) or if they dropped the key fob,” CR warned.

Tesla already programmed a few safety provisions into the system. It will shut itself down if the motor requires too much torque to drive over an obstacle, while sensors determine if the vehicle is nearing any obstacles.

Despite the failsafes, CR tests found that the car failed to stop before hitting a duffel bag and a bicycle. An employee is also said to have damaged the Model S’ wheel when using the summon feature in a garage with a curb inside.

“Obviously, Tesla doesn’t intend for the Model S to be used in Summon mode unsupervised, but if the car cannot be relied upon to stop itself to avoid any obstacle, then it must have a foolproof way for the user to apply the brakes remotely,” the magazine added.

The vehicle is only moving at a speed of approximately one mph while Summon is active, however Tesla agreed to change the system to better avoid potential mishaps. Users will be required to keep their finger on the virtual button in Tesla’s smartphone app until the Model S has finished maneuvering. The approach forces users to be slightly more engaged and protects against accidents if the phone or key fob is dropped.

Tesla has not outlined a time-frame for implementing the change.

Nissan has modified its Pathfinder, Murano and Rogue crossovers into ‘Winter Warriors’ capable of driving atop deep snow.

Each vehicle has been outfitted with a few official Nissan accessories and a promotional exterior wrap, though the primary upgrade is a set of Dominator snow tracks built by American Track Truck.

Each track measures 48 inches long and 15 inches wide, spreading weight across a much wider area than traditional tires. Vehicles can then drive on unmaintained roads, trails and other snow-covered terrain typically accessible only via snowmobile or groomers.

“With their solid Nissan underpinnings and exceptional ground clearance, these Winter Warriors are serious, extreme weather machines, not toys,” said Nissan North America marketing senior VP Christian Meunier.

The company last year revealed the Juke Nismo RSnow, outfitted with the same Dominator track system, capable of driving at speeds of up to 62 mph. The modifications are said to have cost approximately $15,000.