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LB-Figthers Design In the JMSDF-MCAS Iwakuni Friendship Day 2026, which happened on May 3, 2026, Liberty Walk Kato unveiled a newly-built Dodge Challenger for the occasion. It features a fighter-jet-styled livery paired with a Liberty Walk wide body kit and fitted with custom LB Works x AME wheels and wrapped in Yokohama Advan Tires. Parked and photographed at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, the venue served as the perfect backdrop for Kato-san's latest project, which also features custom parts, wheels, and a wrap you could probably take inspiration from. The kicker here is that Liberty Walk hasn't yet listed this version of its Challenger wide-body kit on its website, but it does have the older version up for grabs, priced at $5,780 for the full kit. Custom Wheels The wheels alone are something that you won't easily find in either brand's catalogs. AME Wheels has been a consistent partner of Liberty Walk throughout the years, designing, developing, and producing custom forged three-piece wheels to fit LB's wild designs and custom big brake kits. You can also see two companies at work on other projects, such as the convertible R35 GT-R, the Meiji FD3S, and the LB40 AZ-1, to name a few. With that partnership, Liberty Walk's team can make its creations fit perfectly and then some. Liberty Walk View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article Custom Body Kit As usual, Liberty Walk has a knack for cutting into cars, some of which are the most expensive exotics that the world has seen, other American muscle cars, and others are obscure kei cars that are made to look like exotics. In any case, the wild world of LB knows no bounds when it comes to what can and cannot be cut into, and this Dodge Challenger is no exception. From the front, to the sides, and the back, we get full widebody coverage on this muscle car. Fender flares house the aggressive LB x AME wheels, while the front of the car features a cool front splitter that differs from the one Liberty Walk advertises on its website. It's probably a new product from the brand, but other stuff, like the rear spoiler, is reused from the standard kit. Wrapping around the wide body is a signature custom livery, inspired by fighter jets. You can see how Kato-san took the idea of a worn fighter and ran with it on its new Challenger. A matte finish with a faux patina on all the rivets gives the car the impression that it's been through a few dogfights. Arrows and triangles guide your eyes around the vehicle, pointing to key elements like the wheels and fenders, and create a nice effect throughout. Plus, the other partner cars to this Challenger are a Corvette C8, a GT-R, and a trailer truck, all adopting the same LB Fighter look. Finally, the world-famous Liberty Walk Ferrari F40 also made an appearance at this event. Liberty Walk View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Denny Hamlin was surprised that NASCAR issued a $50,000 fine and 25-point penalty to Ryan Preece, and believes it should be overturned or reduced on appeal, but also concedes from experience that the deck will be stacked against them. Preece was issued the penalty because the Sanctioning Body believed there was intent based on what the driver said over the radio, supplemented by SMT data ...Keep readingView the full article

Toyota's bZ3X has had a year that most automakers would kill for. Launched in China in March 2025 under the GAC-Toyota joint venture badge, the compact electric SUV crossed 80,000 deliveries within its first year on the market. Since September 2025, it has held the top sales position among all joint-venture new energy vehicles in China, a run now stretching seven consecutive months. In April 2026 alone, it moved 10,027 units, a new monthly record. Who Is GAC-Toyota, and Why Does the Label Matter?In China's EV landscape, automakers are sorted into two very different buckets. Domestic brands like BYD, Geely, and Xpeng operate without a foreign partner and dominate the new energy vehicle market. BYD alone commanded around 29 percent of China's NEV market share in 2025. Joint-venture brands, by contrast, are foreign automakers paired with a Chinese state-owned company, and they are tracked separately because the competitive dynamics are completely different. GAC stands for Guangzhou Automobile Group, one of China's largest state-owned car manufacturers. Its partnership with Toyota, GAC-Toyota, has been selling vehicles in China for over two decades. But in a market where domestic brands are widening their lead every quarter, simply being Toyota is no longer enough. The bZ3X is the joint venture's badge-engineered answer to that pressure, based on the GAC Aion V and outselling it in GAC's home market. GAC What the bZ3X Actually IsThe bZ3X is roughly RAV4-sized, and it comes loaded. Seven trim levels, a 14.6-inch floating infotainment screen, 32-color ambient lighting, and Toyota's first integration of the Momenta 5.0 driver assistance system. Two battery options cover ranges of 267 miles and 379 miles on the CLTC cycle. Pricing starts at 109,800 yuan, around $15,000, with a limited offer price of 99,800 yuan, or roughly $14,500. For reference, Toyota's flagship bZ7 EV starts at just over $21,000 and is set to break some records all of its own. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What Americans Will Actually PayThe bZ3X will not come to the US. It is made in China, which rules it out immediately under current tariff structures. Toyota does sell EVs stateside, but the price gap reality is jarring. The 2026 Toyota bZ starts at $34,900, and the C-HR at $37,000. And while both are solid EVs, neither is a $15,000 electric SUV. View the full article

Shane van Gisbergen is now the winningest driver in Trackhouse Racing history, surpassing Ross Chastain with his seventh career win -- all on road courses. It's truly incredible to see just how unbeatable the three-time Supercars champion has been over the past two years, even with how close the field is in modern NASCAR. He has only last one of the last seven road/street course races, and ...Keep readingView the full article

The number of medium-duty commercial trucks available in the U.S. will get smaller this fall as Chevrolet will discontinue its line of Silverado 4500 HD, 5500 HD, and 6500 HD models. Production of Silverado medium-duty Class 4, 5, and 6 commercial trucks, which are co-developed with the International CV Series trucks, will reportedly end on September 30 at International Trucks’ plant in Springfield, Ohio, according to TFL Truck. International Trucks Will Build GM's Medium-Duty Only Until September Chevrolet A report from Transport Topics notes that GM did not renew its contract with International (formerly Navistar), which was signed in 2015. As a result, the factory will also stop making International CV Series trucks on September 10, since most of the factory’s capacity was dedicated to Chevrolet Silverado MD trucks. This was a major factor in International selling the Ohio factory to Canadian defense contractor Roshel on March 30. The obvious question here is why GM opted not to renew the contract with International Trucks, and dwindling sales are the most logical answer. Chevrolet sold just 1,273 Silverado MD trucks in the first quarter of 2026, down 37.4% over Q1 2025. For comparison, Ford sold 2,331 F-650 and F-750 trucks in the first quarter of this year, according to TFL Truck. Chevrolet The Chevrolet Silverado 4500 HD, 5500 HD, and 6500 HD trucks are powered by a Duramax 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8 rated at 350 horsepower and 750 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to an Allison six-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive is available, as well as a choice of regular cab, double cab and crew cab configurations with wheelbases ranging from 165 inches to 243 inches. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) ranges from 14,001 to 16,500 pounds for the Silverado 4500 HD, 17,500 to 19,500 pounds for the 5500 HD, and 21,000-23,500 pounds for the 6500 HD. Chevrolet Will Continue Offering the Isuzu-Developed LCF 3500, 4500, and 5500 It’s worth noting that after production of the Silverado MD line ends in September, GM won’t be left without a medium-duty truck. As part of the long-standing commercial vehicle partnership with Isuzu, GM will continue selling the Chevrolet Low Cab Forward (LCF) Class 4, 5, and 6 trucks. Those include the LCF 3500, 4500, and 5500 models, which are rebadged versions of the Isuzu N-Series, and the heavier duty LCF 6500XD and 7500XD, which are rebadged Isuzu F-Series trucks. As for International Trucks, it won’t remain without medium trucks on sale after the discontinuation of its CV Series, as the company’s MV Series will remain available in the Class 6 and 7 segments. View the full article

Monday marks the one-year mark since Kyle Larson last won a NASCAR Cup Series race, a triumph that came on May 11, 2025 at Kansas Speedway, and the Hendrick Motorsports No. 5 team is still working through things early this season too. Larson finds himself eighth in the championship standings, needing to be within the top-5 by the end of the regular season to be a bonafide championship ...Keep readingView the full article

The First Ford Ride for Some AmericansFord recently claimed that 53% of emergency vehicles nationwide wear a Blue Oval badge. That underscores the need for reliable, purpose-built vehicles that can serve the public in critical situations, especially when some are used to respond to childbirth emergencies – and when some babies are even born inside Ford vehicles. The Dearborn-based automaker said thousands of Americans are born inside ambulances each year, including Christie’s daughter, whose place of birth was later listed simply as “ambulance.” The company said its emergency-vehicle presence reflects the trust it has earned and the responsibility it takes seriously. Built for the Toughest CallsFord offers several vehicles for emergency-response use, including the F-Series Super Duty and the larger F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks. The F-750 is the largest of the bunch, making it well-suited for large ambulance upfits that require more rear cabin space for medical crews, equipment, and patients. Ford These models can be ordered in chassis cab, stripped chassis, or cutaway configurations, giving upfitters greater flexibility when building emergency-response vehicles. The automaker also offers the 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 across several heavy-duty applications, including a High Output version in Super Duty pickups that produces up to 1,200 lb-ft of torque for heavy hauling and towing. Ford’s emergency fleet presence goes beyond ambulances, too. Other models are used in public-safety roles, including Broncos deployed for search-and-rescue operations. The Ford Transit is also a practical option for agencies needing generous interior space, though it is not as heavy-duty-oriented as the brand's pickup-based alternatives. In the press release, Rich, a firefighter and EMS worker, said, “It was absolutely amazing. Such a cool thing to be a part of – to know that you helped bring a life into the world.” Ford Rewards for the Front LineFord also offers a First Responder Recognition Program, which gives eligible first responders a cash reward toward the purchase or lease of select new Ford or Lincoln vehicles. Buyers need to verify their status through ID.me, receive a certificate, and use it with a participating dealer. Beyond emergency vehicles, Ford may also be eyeing the military sector again. CEO Jim Farley reportedly said the company is in early talks with the U.S. government on defense-related projects, though no specifics have been announced. The brand has historical ties to military production, including Model T-based transporters, ambulances, and engine manufacturing for military use. Ford View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Icons of the ‘70sThe '70s produced some of the most iconic cars ever made, including the Lamborghini Countach – the poster car that hung on countless bedroom walls – and the Ferrari Dino 246. The decade also gave rise to infamous machines like the Porsche 930 Turbo, nicknamed the “Widowmaker” because some drivers struggled with its turbo lag and unforgiving handling characteristics. With so many legendary nameplates emerging from that decade and so much time having passed, it is easy to see why some great cars have been overlooked. Arguably, the Alfa Romeo Montreal belongs on that list. It was priced in the same premium territory as the Ferrari Dino 246 when new, but depreciated far more – partly because it did not wear a Prancing Horse badge. Now, one example is up for grabs on Piston Heads. PistonHeads Before the Giulia, There Was ThisThe Alfa Romeo Montreal debuted at the 1970 Geneva Motor Show and was designed by Marcello Gandini, the same designer behind the Lamborghini Countach. This particular MY1975 example is finished in Arancio Miura, a color believed to be a nod to the Lamborghini Miura. But perhaps its most interesting feature is the cross-plane V8 with a dry-sump setup, related to the original Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale – not the recent revival model. Paired with SPICA fuel injection, the engine produces 200 horsepower, which may not sound like much by today’s standards, but in the 1970s, that put it in the same ballpark as the Ferrari Dino 246 and, considering emissions-era detuning, some versions of the Chevrolet Corvette C3. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed ZF manual gearbox with a limited-slip differential. PistonHeads Ferrari Money Then, Not NowThis Montreal is listed at £84,995, or approximately $115,000 at current exchange rates. The car reportedly had only one registered owner, an academic from Austria, and shows 54,300 miles. It also comes with a collection of invoices documenting maintenance and has recently undergone “thorough recommissioning work.” The only downside for interested U.S. buyers is that the vehicle is currently located in the U.K. For newer Alfa Romeos, there are the Giulia, Stelvio, and Tonale. However, the performance-oriented Quadrifoglio variants – seen as alternatives to BMW M models – are no longer available stateside as the Giulia and Stelvio prepare for major overhauls expected sometime around 2028. PistonHeads View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

There's no doubt that Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen was fairly calm, as only one driver failed to reach the checkered flag and 32 of 38 starters finished on the lead lap. There were only two natural cautions -- one for flying debris from the infield, and another for a tire carcass at the side of the track. But there were several moments that the TV coverage either missed ...Keep readingView the full article

Nobody knew exactly what to expect when the BMW Group assumed ownership of Alpina, but we now know when we’ll get our first clear glimpse of BMW Alpina’s future. On May 15, the Vision BMW Alpina will be unveiled at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. The company also shared a teaser image and video of this model, which seemingly has the proportions of a large coupe like the 8 Series. Given that the standard BMW 8 Series has been discontinued, a flagship coupe of this kind could be the perfect way to kick off the BMW Alpina era. Not Just A Fancier BMW The teaser image suggests a vehicle that won’t share its basic lines with any other BMW currently in production. It appears to have a tall front fascia, a long, flowing roofline, and a unique rear lighting signature. Two or four doors are possible, but BMW concealed just enough in the teasers to make it hard to tell. The “Vision” part of the name strongly suggests this will be a concept, but a production version is likely. Villa d’Este on the shores of Lake Como is a telling location to reveal the new car, as the event is often associated with concept cars specifically centered around dazzling design. It suggests the Vision BMW Alpina will be an object of desire first, with its undoubtedly impressive performance credentials possibly taking a back seat at the event. Alpinas have traditionally been the perfect blend between standard BMWs and hardcore M cars. We anticipate a vehicle with no shortage of speed but with more of a bias towards comfortable, cross-country trips than the canyon-carving capabilities of an M car. High-End Underpinnings BMW Alpina Another sign that this will be an 8 Series-sized vehicle came a few months ago, when BMW Group R&D boss Joachim Post said the first new Alpina models would be based on the 7 Series and X7. In other words, they’ll be larger, lower-volume models with high price tags but the very best in technology, comfort, and performance from the BMW Group. The coupe-style concept, then, will likely have 7 Series underpinnings. This also opens the door for an electric Alpina coupe, since the 7 Series is also offered as the electric i7. Launching this new Alpina era with an electric powertrain may be a bit hasty, though. It’s more likely that a larger coupe of this kind will have a specially tuned version of BMW’s turbocharged V8. BMW Alpina teased its iconic quad elliptical exhaust earlier this year, further bolstering hopes that a big V8 powers the concept. Autoblog’s Take BMW Alpina Alpina made a name for itself by releasing refined, powerful versions of already iconic BMW sedans and coupes in the 1980s and 1990s. It’s appropriate, then, that the new era is starting off with a coupe or gran coupe of sorts. We expect the Vision BMW Alpina to adhere to trademarks of the brand, from fine craftsmanship to effortless performance—and an exclusive design that distances it from regular BMWs. All will be revealed later this week. Related: As BMW Takes Over Alpina, These Cars Defined the Brand View the full article

2023 Daytona 500 champion Ricky Stenhouse Jr. has agreed to a multi-year contract extension with Hyak Motorsports, keeping him as the driver of the No. 47 Chevrolet. “Ricky has been a huge part of what we’re building at Hyak Motorsports, and we’re proud to continue this partnership for years to come,” said Gordon Smith, owner of Hyak Motorsports. “He brings experience, leadership ...Keep readingView the full article

China Dominates Parts Supply Chains "Made in China" may be one of the most common pieces of printed literature in the world right now. Even if it was assembled in the good ol' U.S.A., what about the sum of its parts? What about Chinese-made American-branded cars from General Motors' portfolio? Or perhaps the OEM or replacement parts that come from China that are circulating all over the globe? American, Japanese, Korean, and European cars are in the U.S., but Chinese cars aren't, at least not the true Chinese brands. While Chinese car brands aren't available in the United States for now, the country's parts dominate the supply chains for pretty much any brand you can think of. You may not know it, but there are quite a few cars that are quantifiably Chinese in the United States, even if their assembly point of origin begs to differ. On the Flip Side Chinese automakers are nowhere to be found in the U.S. Sales reports, at least not for now. While BYD, Geely, and SAIC Motor are major players in China and throughout the rest of the world, the U.S. market has been noticeably resistant, with established players urging the American government to keep them at bay. On the other side of the coin, more than 60 U.S. auto suppliers are owned by Chinese companies. Things like airbags, auto glass, steering systems, suspension dampers, and more are more often than not sourced from China. According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, "Chinese companies have amassed ownership stakes in about 10,000 suppliers in America, according to data, including stakes as small as 5%." Automotive industries dominated by China include electric-vehicle battery manufacturing. CATL is one of the largest battery manufacturers in the world, and it said that U.S. automakers continued to turn to it even after tariffs. CATL Eliminating Chinese Parts U.S. lawmakers have recently been considering eliminating Chinese parts from the supply chain. A U.S. Senate bill was filed that would ban Chinese-made cars and safety components, which include airbags and seatbelts. The WSJ also reported that more than 50 House Republicans urged the Trump administration to "block Chinese automotive and battery companies from manufacturing in the U.S." Doing so would put domestic industries at risk, prompting the U.S. government to urge automakers to de-emphasize the use of Chinese parts in their vehicles. On top of that, the letter urges the current administration to "reject any attempts by China to establish vehicle and battery manufacturing facilities in the United States, or the broader North American market." Brands like Tesla have started requiring their suppliers to exclude China-made parts and components in their U.S. manufacturing operations. Meanwhile, GM's CEO, Mary Barra, stated that the company had reduced its direct spending on Chinese parts for U.S.-made cars to less than 3%. The result is that GM will source locally-sourced parts from the country in which it builds its cars. MICHAEL MACOR/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images American Cars, Chinese Parts While Ford's CEO is urging the U.S. Government to keep Chinese cars out, the Blue Oval remains open to the idea of allowing Chinese automakers to build cars in the United States, which could also help it compete in Europe. While the current collaborative landscape isn't exactly cut-and-dry, the numbers the WSJ gathered tell a different story. The latest Ford Mustang GT uses a six-speed manual transmission sourced from China. Even some American brands, such as General Motors, show up to 20% Chinese parts in some of their cars. Ford's working with American lawmakers on the Chinese car bans, while GM reportedly declined to comment, according to the report. Given GM's manufacturing operations in China and its several brands with Chinese backing, its decision to remain quiet on the topic is expected. It's crazy to think that a few decades ago, Chinese auto part makers weren't taken that seriously. Once viewed as a cheaper, good-enough alternative, it now has established players trying to resist, while still buying parts from China for its cars. Ford View the full article

Another Small Car Returns TallerSince the start of the decade, demand for crossovers has been undeniable, so much so that several automakers like Ford have discontinued their sedan lineups in the U.S. Meanwhile, some brands have leaned on nostalgia by reviving old nameplates as crossovers, such as Mitsubishi with the Eclipse Cross – a move that can be good or bad, depending on the context. Over at Chevrolet, the Bowtie brand has debuted a new crossover called the Sonic, essentially reviving the nameplate from the subcompact hatchback/sedan that was axed in the U.S. after the 2020 model year. The new Sonic is now a subcompact coupe-style crossover that Chevrolet says has the potential to become one of the brand’s best-selling models, at least in the South American region. Chevrolet Brazil Sonic Goes SleekThe new Sonic has been introduced in Brazil with two trims: Premier and RS. Chevrolet customers may already know Premier as the more premium-looking trim, while RS is aimed at buyers who want a sportier appearance. Its coupe-like styling gives it a sleeker look compared with boxier rivals such as the Hyundai Venue. One of its standout features is the debut of the new-generation Chevrolet Intelligent Driving System, which is said to include improvements to its advanced driver-assistance features aimed at helping prevent accidents. Powering the Sonic is a 1.0-liter turbocharged inline-three engine producing 115 horsepower. That may not sound like much, but for a vehicle weighing 1,139 kg (2,511 lbs) and measuring 4.23 meters (13.9 feet) long, it should be sufficient. The setup also enables fuel economy of 14.8 km/L, or roughly 34.8 mpg, under Brazil’s Inmetro cycle. Chevrolet Brazil The Sonic Name Lives AgainChevrolet is offering the 2027 Sonic with a starting price of 129,990 Brazilian reals (about $26,500 at current exchange rates) for the Premier trim, while the RS starts at 135,990 reals (roughly $27,500). That undercuts the U.S.-spec Equinox, though Brazil’s different market conditions make the comparison less direct. Plus, the Equinox is a step up in the compact crossover segment. Given the U.S. market’s preference for larger vehicles, the Sonic seems unlikely to arrive stateside anytime soon. After all, Chevrolet already offers two subcompact crossovers in the U.S. – the Trax and Trailblazer – both of which are built in South Korea and exposed to import tariffs. Chevrolet Brazil View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Volvo and Geely’s Lovechild Launching Another SUVWhen Geely and Volvo teamed up in 2016 to launch Lynk & Co, it looked like another ambitious Chinese startup with a bit of Scandinavian influence. But after a few years, the brand has quietly become much more than that. We’ve spent time behind the wheel of a few Lynk & Co hybrids and EVs before, and the products are more than just decent. Some models actually feel more sorted than what you get from established brands. Unsurprisingly, there’s a strong Volvo influence throughout. Now, Lynk & Co is getting ready to add another model to its lineup: the all-electric 20. It just showed up in Chinese regulatory filings, which gives us an early preview of what looks like a direct competitor to compact premium SUVs such as the Lexus NX. Lynk & Co Lidar, Fresh Styling, and Plenty of PowerThe 20 goes head-to-head with the Lexus NX in terms of size, but Lynk & Co seems to be pushing the tech angle even further. Based on the filings, it’s already packing hardware that could leave some established luxury brands playing catch-up. The latest images show the Lynk & Co 20 with a refreshed look compared to the Z20 it’s built on. Up front, there’s a split-headlight setup joined by a light strip, and there’s even a bright yellow paint option that makes no attempt to blend in. The most obvious clue is the LiDAR sensor mounted on the roof. That suggests Lynk & Co is gearing up for more advanced driver-assistance and semi-autonomous features. Whether those systems will actually beat the competition is still an open question, but the hardware is already in place. Under the hood, there’s a single electric motor with 328 horsepower, paired to a lithium iron phosphate battery. Top speed is 125 mph, which is more than enough for a compact luxury SUV that will likely spend most of its time in city traffic. China's MIIT/Autohome America Probably Won’t Get It, but Canada MightThere’s still a strong chance the Lynk & Co 20 won’t make it to the US. Chinese EV brands are still running into political and trade hurdles in the US, and that doesn’t look like it will change soon. That said, North America isn’t completely off the table. Geely is already bringing China-made Lotus EVs into Canada, which could open the door for other brands in its group, including Lynk & Co. The Lynk & Co 20 would likely find buyers in North America. Compact luxury SUVs remain in high demand, and a tech-focused EV with Volvo-inspired engineering could appeal to those seeking something different from the usual German or Japanese options. China's MIIT/Autohome View the full article

Kia’s lineup in the United States is on a roll, with the Korean marque shattering sales records almost every quarter. But there’s been a void ever since the fun but underrated Kia Stinger sedan was discontinued in 2023. Easily one of the most desirable Kia models, the Stinger boasted engaging rear-wheel-drive dynamics and an alluring design. No successor has arrived, but that could change in the not-too-distant future, as Kia plans to build a production version of the exciting Vision Meta Turismo concept first revealed last year. Kia Believes There’s Opportunity Beyond SUVs Kia Ever since the Vision Meta Turismo concept was revealed, its sporty proportions hinted at an electric revival of a sports sedan in the vein of the previous Stinger. That’s now more than a dream, as Karim Habib, Kia design chief, said such a flagship sedan is in the works—but only once its pricing becomes viable. "At this point, it is more strategic,” said Habib when asked by Autocarwhat’s stopping the company from putting the four-door GT into production now. “It's a pure EV and the price of doing a high-performance EV is what is slowing us down. Hopefully, the upward movement of EVs keeps going. I think there will be more openness to this [type of] car.” Kia Habib also spoke about Kia’s current success with SUVs, which he acknowledged as a positive. However, it doesn’t sound like Kia will follow brands like Buick and Lincoln by having an SUV-only lineup. "We have a small history of doing cars like the Stinger and that's something we don't want to give up on,” said Habib. “The Meta Turismo is our idea of a sports sedan for the gamer generation. A few years ago, we started thinking about what could we do beyond SUVs? We do produce and sell a lot of SUVs, which is good, but we also believe that there's more than that." Next-Generation Kia Design Kia The Vision Meta Turismo embodies the next chapter of Kia’s “Opposites United” design language. The stance is explicitly low and wide, hinting at a sporty performance character; the interior does the same, whereby the driver’s area has its own color scheme, which differs from the rest of the cabin. We expect elements like the dramatic glass roof with geometric panels to be toned down for production. Kia is considering implementing elements of the highly minimalist and tech-forward interior for production, too. There’s no word on the powertrain or technical specifications yet, but Kia has already produced the 641-horsepower EV6 GT, and we would expect the Stinger’s spiritual successor to be at least as powerful as that EV. Kia doesn’t have a performance division like Hyundai’s N, though, so this may be more of a rapid GT than a true track weapon. What It Means Kia If Kia was all about profits and sales, it would simply double down on SUVs. But this is a courageous brand with a sporting side, and recreating what the Stinger represented for a new generation will showcase that. The Vision Meta Turismo’s jaw-dropping design is a great starting point, but it may be a while before Kia can package it as a production model—and at a feasible price point. If Kia gets the recipe right, we could be looking at a formidable EV with the performance of a BMW i3 or Tesla Model 3 Performance. View the full article

The Watkins Glen weekend was full of highs and lows for 19-year-old Connor Zilisch. After leading the most laps in Friday's Truck race, he lost out to Kaden Honeycutt in overtime. However, he won Saturday's NASCAR O'Reilly race with a dramatic pass on Jesse Love in the final corner of the final lap. And then there's the Cup race. Zilisch entered the Glen outside the top 30 in points, and still ...Keep readingView the full article

The 2002 Ford Explorer was Rather InterestingMillions and millions of Ford Explorers have been made since 1990, and the first two generations were blockbuster hits. While not the first SUV, it certainly played its part in making the entire genre as big as it is today. The third-generation Explorer was a rather interesting model that bridged the past and present models. It still rode on a body-on-frame chassis, but it came with fully independent suspension at the front and rear. It was released in late 2001 for the 2002 model year and marked the Explorer's baby steps toward becoming a crossover. Ford The 2001 Explorer Sportsman ConceptWe can only assume that many design studies were made before we all saw the SUV that was practically everywhere in the early '00s. There was, however, a concept that teased the new look in a way: the Explorer Sportsman Concept. It's a bit of a forgotten concept now, but it did make big news back in 2001. It was shown at the 2001 North American International Auto Show alongside the Thunderbird revival, which later failed to meet sales expectations. So, what was the Sportsman Concept? Underneath its boxy exterior is the frame for the redesigned Explorer, so in a way, the all-new model was hiding in plain sight. According to Ford, the concept was made specifically for fly fishing. It's a pretty specific niche to target, but that's what Ford went with in the end. Then again, the company couldn't say it's the third-gen Explorer in disguise. Bring a Trailer It's Now For SaleThe very car that was proudly on display 25 years ago had ended up on Bring a Trailer. At the time of writing, the bid is $13,500, which is certainly much less than the amount Ford spent on building the car in the first place. An interesting, if largely forgotten, piece of history? You bet. It's worth noting that this isn't the first time this particular concept vehicle has been auctioned off. Back in 2010, it was sold for $49,500 by RM Sotheby's. It went up for sale again in 2014, and the hammer fell at just $15,675. Whoever bought it for nearly $50,000 in 2010 must've felt that massive loss. Bring a Trailer Not Road LegalTo whoever wins the auction, do note that the SUV is, sadly, not road legal. There are no certificates for it to be used in public, so, at best, it can be driven around private spaces. Yes, it's a moving and (mostly) functional car, so it has that going for it. According to the original description from 2001, it had a 4.6-liter V8 under the hood, but the reality is pretty far from that. Instead, there's a 2.0-liter 12-valve Mazda engine with half the cylinders. For all we know, it came from a fourth-generation 626, and don't expect it to go anywhere fast. Oh, and some of the features that made it idea for fly fishing aren't included in the sale, namely the original seatback-mounted fly-tying workstations. Also, there's no working speedometer and all you get it a static display. We're genuinely curious what it would take for it to be road-legal. As for the concept itself, some design elements did make it to various Ford SUVs in the 2000s. The sizable fender flares can be seen in the Explorer and Expedition, along with the chunky door handles. It didn't reach production, at least some its influences were applied later on. Ford Bring a Trailer View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The ID.Polo's Time to ShineFor the longest time, it was the Golf that got most of the sweet high-performance treatment from Volkswagen. There have been countless over the years, and we're not just talking about GTIs and Rs. As for the Polo, there have been few and far between. Some shining examples include the GT and G40, and let's not forget how it bagged four straight World Rally Championship titles for Volkswagen. Given its success in motorsport, one would think there would be a turbocharged all-wheel-drive model in the same vein as Toyota's small and spicy GR Yaris. The ID. Polo made its world premiere recently, and a few impressions of the GTI version have been made as well. This time around, it seems the subcompact hatchback is finally getting more attention on the performance front. That's because the company has confirmed an even hotter version. Volkswagen Coming Soon: The ID.Polo GTI 'Clubsport'Autocar wasn't just able to have first dibs on the ID. Polo GTI, the British publication, also managed to scoop an incoming model that will sit above it. As confirmed by Florian Umbach, the head of vehicle dynamics for Volkswagen, the company is prepping an even hotter version of its latest subcompact EV. The engineer was quoted as saying, "We are working on something. There is certainly more peak power that we can find from the motor and battery hardware that we have and more torque that the front axle could handle also. There is clear potential." There is no official name for it yet, but Autocar has given it the tentative name 'Clubsport'. Historically, that has been reserved for more track-focused versions of the Golf GTI, sitting between the standard hot hatch and the R. Volkswagen What to ExpectThat wasn't the only thing mentioned in the report. It was also said that power could rise to as much as 280 hp (or more), making it more powerful than a regular Golf GTI. For reference, the ID. Polo GTI makes 223 hp and 214 lb-ft, all of which are sent to the front wheels. Hyundai must have done something really well for more automakers to develop their own simulated manual modes. Volkswagen will be no exception, as it will deliver "a similar kind of paddleshift power delivery that the Hyundai N cars have." The additional power will be care of a software upgrade, and there will be piped-in sounds to a more enhanced experience behind the wheel. For now, there is no exact launch date for the so-called ID. Polo GTI Clubsport. That said, we'll have to wait for the regular GTI to make its world premiere before we start counting down the days until the hotter version's premiere. Then again, Volkswagen could surprise us all by launching the GTI and 'Clubsport' at the same time. Wilco Blok/Instagram View the full article

Collision Avoidance Systems Are Already Smart, But Ford Wants MoreCollision avoidance tech has quietly become one of the most important safety features in today’s cars. When it works, it can mean the difference between a close call and a costly accident. Most brands now offer some version of automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, or evasive steering—either standard or as an option. Ford, however, appears to be exploring something more advanced. A newly published patent discovered by Road & Track reveals that the Blue Oval brand could be working on a system that could avoid collisions even while the vehicle is parked. Filed in 2023 and officially published last week under patent number 12617393 (look it up), the document outlines a predictive crash-avoidance system that goes beyond the usual “see obstacle, hit brakes” approach. USPTO Predicting Danger Through a Myriad of SensorsThe patent describes a web of sensors – radar, LiDAR, cameras, and ultrasonic – constantly watching the car’s surroundings. Ford calls it a 'virtual sensing grid,' tracking movement around the vehicle in real time. Here’s the twist: the system isn’t just reacting to what’s happening now. It tries to guess where another car is headed next. If it senses a crash is likely, it figures out the best move to get out of the way. That could mean braking, steering, accelerating, or all three at once. In Ford’s examples, the car is parked when it spots another vehicle coming in at an angle. The system predicts the path and decides if nudging forward, back, or even sideways could help avoid or soften the hit. Other diagrams show the car reacting to traffic moving around it, even while it’s standing still. The system can weigh threat levels and pick the safest escape route based on what’s happening nearby. In short, it’s more like a defensive driver making a split-second move to avoid trouble. USPTO How It Differs From Today’s SystemsMost current systems have one job: stop the car before it hits something. That’s why automatic emergency braking is the star of today’s safety tech. Even the ones that can steer usually just help you dodge what’s right in front of you while moving. Ford’s idea goes further. Instead of just stopping, the system looks for the safest way out based on what’s happening around the car. It could even move itself while parked or unattended if it senses a crash coming – at least in theory. Of course, a patent doesn’t mean you’ll see this in production Ford vehicles anytime soon. Automakers file plenty of ideas that never make it to production. However, Ford’s latest concept hints at a future where safety systems act more like human instinct than just another set of sensors. USPTO View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

America's Sports CarThe Chevrolet Corvette is a true American automotive icon, having started out as a sports car and quickly becoming a supercar challenger. What has always been the Corvette's calling card is its power, simplicity, and overall affordability against the European competition. 2027 marks a new milestone for the current C8-generation Corvette. GM is updating the model as a mid-cycle refresh, with some notable changes and, interestingly, price differences for certain options. Chevrolet Mid-Life RefreshThe C8 has been on the market for 6 years now, debuting in 2020. A major change for the 2027 model year is the introduction of a new motor, a 6.7-liter V8 LS6 small block, replacing the iconic and trusty 6.2-liter V8 LT2. Another major development for 2027 is the reintroduction of the Corvette Grand Sport. Apart from a new engine and a new variant, Chevrolet is also updating the pricing for factory- and dealership-installed options. According to GM Authority, while most price changes have trended downward toward affordability, other optional extras have jacked up the price. Most of the price increase is due to the carbon fiber equipment and exterior appearance package. One major aesthetic price jump is the Color Combination Override Option, which was previously priced at $625 and will increase to $1,495, representing a $800 increase. This option allows owners to mix and match interior and exterior colorways that aren't available as standard. For the carbon fiber bits, the 2027 ZR1 and ZR1X Carbon Aero kits will increase to $12,995, a $2,500 increase. While the new carbon alloy wheels will now set you back $15,995, up by $2,000. Lastly, the ZR1 ZTK Track Performance Package will go up by $1,600. Chevrolet Up and DownOther notable options have also increased in price for 2027, such as the Level 2 Carbon Fiber instrument panel trim, which rose by $300, and the Carbon Fiber Surround Cluster, now up by $295. Next up, the Front Lip Adjustable Height With Memory System goes up by $400, bringing the total to $2,995. Despite the price increases, there are other listed options that offer lower prices, notably the bright polished aluminum wheels, which are now $300 less, totaling just $4,395. Black wheel locks drop from $175 to $105, and the front dark stealth crossed-flags emblem drops by $25. View the full article

Storm Continues Through TuesdayThe Pacific system that pounded the coast this weekend is not finished. Heading into Monday, the National Weather Service in Anchorage confirms the original storm is still spinning, while a second cyclone closes in from the west. Forecasters expect another 24 to 48 hours of mountain snow, heavy coastal rain, and gusty winds. In the discussion issued at 4:11 PM AKDT Sunday, forecasters describe "a large, negatively tilted upper level low" continuing to rotate across the Southwest. A separate marine forecast for Valdez adds the new piece: "A front extending from a 982 mb Bering Sea low 35 nautical miles northeast of Saint George Island will move into the southwestern Gulf of Alaska Tuesday afternoon." By Monday, the two systems will "begin to interact, spiraling around and inwards towards each other in what's called the Fujiwhara Effect," per the same NWS discussion. The combined low will be centered over the Pribilof Islands by Tuesday afternoon, pushing the worst weather toward Kodiak and the southern Alaska Peninsula. What to ExpectWind gusts: 40 mph in Kodiak Island Monday night, 30 mph along Turnagain Arm on Tuesday, 25 mph in Whittier and ValdezSnow: Wet snow possible in Anchorage and Mat-Su before precipitation clears overnight; rain switching to all snow in Valdez after 10 PM Tuesday; continuing blowing snow on the Arctic CoastMixed precipitation: Rain and snow across Southcentral Alaska, with isolated graupel reported in the Southwest InteriorRoad icing: Wet snow may refreeze overnight in Southcentral, with black ice possible on Anchorage, Mat-Su, and Turnagain Arm roads early MondayA Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for Point Lay on the Arctic Coast, where blowing snow has reduced visibility to a half mile or less. Driving Safely Through the StormDrivers face wet snow in the mountains, 40 mph crosswinds along the coast, and overnight refreeze on Southcentral roads. The hazards vary by location, so does the response. For snow and ice, use 3PMSF rated winter tires with tread depth of at least 4/32 inch. Increase following distance significantly on snow covered roads, and be especially cautious on predawn ice around Anchorage and Mat-Su as wet snow refreezes. Conditions can shift between rain, slush, and packed snow within a few miles on the Seward Highway and through Turnagain Arm. For high winds, expect a noticeable push on trucks, SUVs, and other high profile vehicles at 40 mph, particularly on exposed coastal segments around Kodiak. Slow well below posted limits, keep both hands on the wheel, and avoid cruise control when traction is compromised. EV drivers should plan for reduced range. AAA testing has found that cold weather can cut EV range by an average of nearly 40 percent due to slower battery chemistry and energy spent on cabin heat. Preconditioning the car while plugged in and using seat heaters instead of full cabin heat helps recover some of that range. For vehicle setup, Autoblog's guide to the best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving covers all wheel drive systems, snow modes, and cold weather usability. EV owners can find more cold weather tactics in how to get the most range from your EV when the temperature drops. Pack a winter emergency kit per NWS winter weather safety guidance, and check the Alaska DOT 511 system for current road conditions. What's NextNWS forecasters expect a second wave to track toward the northern Gulf and Alaska Peninsula later this week, bringing more precipitation Friday and Saturday. Heavy mountain snow is expected through the latter half of the week, with significant accumulations likely in favored terrain into the weekend. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article

The deck was stacked against Shane Van Gisbergen and the Trackhouse No. 91 on Sunday at Watkins Glen but it simply didn’t matter. A caution with 39 laps to go put ‘SVG’ and crew chief Stephen Doran into quite the predicament. If they stayed out, they faced long odds of making it to the finish line on fuel, especially if others came down and were chasing them down on fresher tires. So ...Keep readingView the full article

Championship leader Tyler Reddick finished fifth at Watkins Glen, adding an extra 20-point between himself and Denny Hamlin, increasing his lead to a staggering 129 points. There was no change inside the top five in the standings, but Bubba Wallace did replace William Byron inside the top ten. In the battle around the Chase cut-line, there were a lot of movement. SVG's big win vaulted him ...Keep readingView the full article

The Legacy of the LegacyThe Subaru Legacy may be no more, but the impact it left on the company is immense. Aimed at the likes of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, it was a quantum leap over previous models, and it was a gamble that paid off. The platform of the first generation would form the foundations of Subaru's modern era, forming the lineup we know today. Oh, and Bruce Willis was involved in its marketing. Unveiled in 1989, the first-generation model showed the world that Subaru was a brand to be taken more seriously. But aside from bringing sales to new heights and changing the brand's image, the Legacy laid down the foundations for the brand's later success in rallying. Subaru Subaru's First Performance SedanSubaru had dabbled in turbocharging as far back as the early '80s with the Leone, otherwise known collectively as the GL or L-Series in the U.S. While boosted models were faster than the standard versions, we wouldn't exactly call them hot even by the standards of the day. That all changed with the Legacy Sport Sedan that was introduced in America in 1990 for the 1991 model year. For North America at least, the hottest Legacy packed a turbocharged 2.2-liter boxer engine that produced 160 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. It was decent figures at the time, although far from the likes of the FordTaurus SHO that punched out 220 hp from its Yamaha-tuned V6. Still, the performance figures it produced were good for its time. An instrumented test from Car and Driver in 1991 measured a 0 to 60 time of 7.9 seconds, a 0 to 100 time of 24.2 seconds, and a 120 mph speed in under a minute. That said, John Phillips, who reviewed the car, didn't call it much fun. Like in so many instances, the nicer versions were sold elsewhere. Subaru Of Course, Other Markets Got the Faster ModelFor those who wanted more punch from the Legacy, they had to move to Japan, Australia, New Zealand, or Europe. Those markets had a smaller 2.0-liter turbo, but it packed far more power than the one North America ended up getting. Numbers? 217 hp, 199 lb-ft, and a 0 to 60 time under 6.5 seconds. That version was called the RS in Japan, or simply the Turbo in Europe and Oceania. Either way, it was far superior to the Sport Sedan and had a more buttoned-down suspension setup that further complemented the all-wheel drive system. It was even available as a wagon If that wasn't enough, there was the RS Type RA, the RA standing for Record Attempt. Those cars were lightened and relatively stripped out, and came with a closer-ratio transmission, and had hand-ported engines with stronger internals and forged parts. The Type RA was a result of Subaru clinching the 100,000 km FIA World Land Endurance Record (62,000 miles, give or take), completing that task in 447 hours, 44 minutes, and 9.887 seconds (a little over 18 and a half days) by doing an average speed of 138.780 mph, stops included. The irony was that those cars were brought to America in '89 to be driven around the Arizona Test Center, only for the U.S version to be watered down. Subaru Rebooting the Rally ProgramEven before STI was established in 1988, Subaru had dabbled in rallying as far back as the '70s. Results were okay at best, and finishing a rally was pretty much a win back then. The best finish pre-STI Subaru achieved was third in Rally New Zealand 1987. As STI, the Subaru World Rally Team first entered in 1990 with the Legacy RS. Like any new team, there were growing pains, but the car showed promise in the following seasons. Continuous development made the car more competitive, but Subaru's first win eluded it. The Legacy had all the potential to win on the world stage. It had already proved itself with back-to-back titles in the British Rally Championship in 1991 and 1992 with a young Scotsman named Colin McRae and his co-driver Derek Ringer. The Legacy was scoring strong results and podiums from time to time, but the first win finally came in the 1993 Rally New Zealand, again with the McRae and Ringer duo. Subaru had finally done it after years of trying. Towards the end of the 1993 season, the Legacy had passed the baton to the smaller and more agile Impreza, and with the lessons learned from the previous years, Subaru would eventually become one of the sport's biggest names while kicking off the eternal debate of Evo vs. STI. Subaru The First-Gen Legacy Turbo NowThe first generation of the turbocharged Legacy has a far greater following abroad than in the U.S. One can say that Subaru's rallying exploits were largely unnoticed stateside, as the sport wasn't really that big a deal in North America at the time, unlike, say, in Europe and Oceania. The neutered American version probably didn't help, either, and the Mitsubishi Galant VR-4 sold in the country at the time wasn't as kneecapped as the Legacy Sport Sedan. Today, it's a bit of an overlooked gem, and not a lot has survived over the decades. It's all the more reason to cherish the remaining examples, and perhaps start bringing in those spicier RS models that slipped through the North American market's hands. Besides, had Subaru decided not to offer a performance version of the Legacy, the company and the entire rally scene would look very different today. Subaru Subaru View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

After 100 laps of NASCAR Cup racing at Watkins Glen, pole-sitter Shane van Gisbergen walked away with the checkered flag. He made up 29 seconds in 18 laps during the final stint, and ultimately won the race by 7.2 seconds over Michael McDowell. Ty Gibbs was leading the strategy for those who cut out a pit stop, finishing third. Chase Briscoe and Tyler Reddick filled out the rest of the top ...Keep readingView the full article