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EPA discovers defeat device in more VW TDI engines

In a sternly worded letter, the United States Environmental Protection Agency has issued a new set of allegations against Volkswagen claiming that so-called emissions defeat software has been found in the company's 3.0-liter TDI V6 diesel engines. This is a completely different engine than the 2.0 TDI that has already been identified as an emissions cheater. In addition to VW, the EPA has included Audi and Porsche in this notification, as the non-compliant engine has been used in vehicles from all three manufacturers from model years 2014 through 2016. The EPA claims that cars equipped with the 3.0 TDI engine know when they are being tested for emissions, and their on-board computers switch into a mode designed to pass the stringent requirements in the United States for diesel exhaust. Vehicles sold in the United States with this engine include the 2014 VW Touareg, 2015 Porsche Cayenne, and 2016 Audi A6, A7, A8L and Q5. The EPA says there are 10,000 vehicles currently on the road with this second defeat device, along with an unknown number of 2016 models either on dealer lots or in the driveways of consumers. According to the EPA, VW's 3.0-liter TDI, like the 2.0 TDI that was found to circumvent US regulations, has code in its computer specifically written to intentionally put the vehicle's engine into a mode that allows it to meet exhaust requirements. When the vehicle is unhooked from testing equipment, it will go back into a mode that emits nine-times higher nitrogen oxide emissions than is allowable under US law. "VW has once again failed its obligation to comply with the law that protects clean air for all Americans," said Cynthia Giles, Assistant Administrator for the Office for EPA's Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. "All companies should be playing by the same rules. EPA, with our state, and federal partners, will continue to investigate these serious matters, to secure the benefits of the Clean Air Act, ensure a level playing field for responsible businesses, and to ensure consumers get the environmental performance they expect." Richard Corey, Executive Officer of the California Air Resources Board, said in a statement, "Today we are requiring VW Group to address these issues. This is a very serious public health matter. ARB and EPA will continue to conduct a rigorous investigation that includes testing more vehicles until all of the facts are out in the open." This story will be updated as new information becomes available.

Next-gen Porsche Panamera snapped running in E-Hybrid spec

The Porsche Panamera first debuted back in 2009 and underwent a facelift in 2013. That means the all-new, next-generation Panamera should be arriving in time for the 2017 model year, and here were have our first look at its plug-in hybrid variant. Following the last prototype spotted undergoing cold-weather testing in Sweden, this new Panamera test mule spotted in southern Europe appears to be running the E-Hybrid powertrain setup – judging, at least, by the presence of a second filler cap hiding what's likely an charging port on the left side rear fender. We'll just have to sit tight, however, to find out whether it will be packing an evolution of the existing powertrain or something entirely new. Though the prototype may look largely undisguised, those head- and taillight graphics look like stickers to throw us off the scent, and these do not appear to be production-ready body panels. Expect the finished product to look far more polished when it arrives sometime in the middle of next year, with the hybrid version to follow sometime thereafter.

1989 Porsche 911 Turbo rolls out of Harry's Garage

It's getting increasing hard not to feel a little envious of Harry Metcalfe's collection of vehicles, especially with his latest purchase. He now owns the trinity of '80s European supercars with an '87 Lamborghini Countach, an '87 Ferrari Testarossa, and the recent addition of an '89 Porsche 911 Turbo. With the other two already featured in videos, the example from Stuttgart gets the focus in Metcalfe's latest clip. These turbos have a reputation for being a bit of a handful to drive, and according to Metcalfe that notoriety isn't entirely undeserved. With no power steering, floor-mounted pedals, oddly placed controls and lots of turbo lag, this era of 911 Turbo is difficult to master. However, it's a wonderful challenge that really engages the driver, according to Metcalfe. While a very different vehicle from the Countach or Testarossa, it's clear that this 911 Turbo is still a beloved member in Metcalfe's trio of '80s supercars. Let him give you a detailed explanation why in this video.