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A Tough Naturally Aspirated V6The Frontier’s V6 isn’t new, but it’s earned its stripes the hard way: by taking a beating and coming back for more. Nissan put the 3.8-liter V6 through brutal tests before it ever saw a customer, including running it flat-out at redline for 300 hours straight just to see what would break. This engine is built in America, and now it’s the face of a big milestone for Nissan. The 20 millionth engine from Decherd is a VQ-ZV9 V6, and it’s going straight into a Frontier – one of Nissan’s toughest trucks getting one of its toughest engines. Nissan Nearly Three Decades of Engine BuildingDecherd opened its doors in 1997 and has been cranking out engines ever since. It’s one of Nissan’s oldest US plants and supplies powertrains for vehicles all over North America. Nissan has poured about $2 billion into Decherd over the years, out of a $14 billion investment in US manufacturing. So this isn’t just another engine plant – it’s a key piece of how Nissan builds cars for North America. David Sliger, vice president of Regional Powertrain Operations for Nissan Americas, said the 20-million-engine milestone reflects more than output numbers. According to him, it represents the craftsmanship and long-term dedication of the workers in Decherd, many of whom have spent much of their careers there. The plant isn’t just about engines. It supports jobs all over Tennessee, especially in Franklin County, and has become a fixture in the local community. Some families have had more than one generation working there, which gives the place a real hometown feel. Chase Bierenkoven Preparing for the Next PhaseEven as the 20 millionth engine is a classic V6 for a truck, Nissan is already thinking about what comes next. Nissan’s US production has jumped from 40 to 60% in just a year, with a goal of hitting 80%. The idea is simple: build more cars where people actually buy them. That means Decherd isn’t just about gas engines anymore. The plant is gearing up to build both traditional and electrified powertrains for future Nissan and Infiniti models in the US – including the upcoming Xterra, which will get a V6 Hybrid. Nissan View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Following a report from the Sports Business Journal, NASCAR boss Jim France is stepping down as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) but will remain as the Chairman and majority owner of NASCAR. France, who turns 82 later this year, took over the position from nephew Brian France in 2018 following his arrest on suspicion of DUI in Sag Harbor, New York. Steve O'Donnell, who was the president of ...Keep readingView the full article

Theater Screen Coming To More Models?BMW currently makes one of the most luxurious back seats in the business, found in the latest 7 Series. This executive sedan features an available reclining position with an ottoman on the passenger side, if you equip the Executive Lounge specification. There is also the 31.3-inch BMW Theater Screen, which folds down from the Skylounge LED roof and offers video streaming, Zoom calling, and more. BMW These amenities are all wildly impressive for a car, but BMW has only offered them in a sedan up until now. Speaking with Autoblog, BMW hinted that these more eye-popping features could make their way into an SUV, specifically the company's largest model, the X7. A More Luxurious X7 BMW View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article "You have to think about the interpretation of something like [the theater screen] and how it would fit in the vehicle," said Michael Keller, Vice President Product Management Americas for BMW Group US. "There is a new X7 coming. So perhaps you could do something like that eventually." Keller explained how the X7's dimensions and functionality are different than the 7 Series, so a rear screen may not be exactly 31.3 inches in such a vehicle. Competing With Maybach And Range Rover Mercedes-Benz View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article BMW already competes with rivals like Mercedes-AMG in terms of SUV performance, but as we've mentioned above, it's been hesitant to go all-in on an executive four-seater in this segment. The BMW XM has a spacious back seat, bundling the wheelbase of the X7 in the form factor of a five-seater, but it lacks the amenities found in the 7 Series. If the next-generation X7 does gain features like the Executive Lounge specification and BMW Theater Screen, it would be a more compelling rival for the Lexus LX Ultra Luxury, Mercedes-Maybach GLS, and Range Rover Long Wheelbase. View the full article

The G87 BMW M2 is no stranger to special editions, and the latest is the rarest yet, with just 10 units being produced—but America can't have any of them. It's called the M2 Coupe RR Edition, and it's been revealed by BMW South Africa alongside a new S 1000 RR M2 Edition and M 1000 RR M2 Edition. Yes, as strange as it sounds, BMW has created an M2 inspired by its superbikes and a pair of superbikes inspired by its compact sports coupe. Let's take a closer look. BMW M2 RR Edition Gets Updated Looks with Fresh Aero BMW All the M2s and all the liter bikes come with black paint and red accents, with the former finished in fan favorite Black Sapphire Metallic and the latter in a hue called Black Storm Metallic. The M2 RR Edition also gets a 20-millimeter drop thanks to M Performance suspension with red springs, bringing its 20-inch front and 21-inch rear M Performance wheels in Jet Black closer to the arches. The car also gains red inserts on its front and rear splitters, and both a roof spoiler and a wing on the trunk. To round the exterior treatment off, a specially developed Akrapovič exhaust has been produced, though there are no changes to the output of the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six S58 engine, which makes 473 horsepower. BMW View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Inside, BMW has sadly elected not to fit the M Carbon bucket seats from the M2 CS, instead upholstering the standard perches in black and red leather with red contrast stitching, matching the noon marker and M buttons on the steering wheel. Perhaps as a nod to the feeling of freedom provided by a superbike, the M2 Edition RR also gains a sunroof, adding roughly 50 lbs of weight compared to the carbon roof. Finally, buyers will get to choose from either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed M Steptronic automatic transmission, with five of each being offered. BMW's M2-Inspired Bikes Get Light Touches BMW View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Like the M2 RR Edition, the S 1000 RR M2 Edition and M 1000 RR M2 Edition get Akrapovič exhaust systems but no extra power. The former adds to its sinister look with red-accented front fairings, a tinted windshield, an M-embossed seat, a red-accented passenger seat, and red-accented Design Option wheels. The latter is a little fancier, with red accents on its M Carbon wheels and tank, as well as red M front winglets that make the bike look ready for MotoGP. Pricing for the S 1000 RR M2 Edition is set at R406,950 (~$24,580), while the M 1000 RR M2 Edition will cost R882,100 (~$53,280). Pricing for the M2 Coupe RR Edition hasn't been revealed, but it probably won't be cheap. BMW View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

For more than two decades, Bugatti’s identity has been shaped under the umbrella of the Volkswagen Group. That chapter has now officially come to a close, as Porsche has agreed to sell its stakes in Bugatti Rimac and Rimac Group to a consortium led by HOF Capital. The End of a 28-Year Volkswagen Era Bugatti Volkswagen first brought Bugatti back to life in 1998, a few years after the EB110 was discontinued. Under VW ownership, the French hypercar maker delivered icons like the Veyron and later the Chiron, cars that redefined what hypercars could be. In 2021, Bugatti entered a new era with the creation of Bugatti Rimac, a joint venture designed to add electrification to the mix. Porsche held a 45% stake in the joint venture, along with a 20.6% share in the Rimac Group. Now, with both holdings sold entirely (for an undisclosed amount), the Volkswagen era is officially over. Control now shifts to Mate Rimac and a new group of global investors, effectively wiping the slate clean and setting the stage for a very different future. What Bugatti Looks Like Without Volkswagen Bugatti Whether Mate Rimac wants to admit it or not, Volkswagen’s engineering depth influenced Bugatti in more ways than many realised. One of the clearest examples came when Mat Armstrong uncovered shared components between the Chiron Super Sport and more mainstream Audi and VW models, highlighting just how interconnected the group really was. Without that ecosystem, will Bugatti continue sourcing components from the wider industry, or will Rimac push for more bespoke, in-house solutions? While the Mistral marks the final chapter of its W16 era, the Tourbillon gives us a taste of what's possible with Rimac's guidance. Its naturally aspirated 8.3-litre V16 engine, paired with three electric motors, produces a combined 1,775 hp and showcases just how impactful electrification can be. Porsche Refocuses as Bugatti Starts Over Porsche Recently, Porsche has seen quite a tough time, with operating profit collapsing by 92.7% to just $478 million in 2025, and its profit margin declining from 14.1% to just 1.1%. In response, Porsche AG CEO Dr Michael Leiters said that they "will focus Porsche on the core business," with their most recent announcement being the all-electric Cayenne Coupe. Stepping away from Bugatti will allow Porsche to focus its resources where they matter most As for Bugatti, though, this marks a hard reset. Without Volkswagen’s backing, there's no shared parts bin and no established formula they have to follow. What comes next will define the brand for decades to come, and for the first time in years, no one knows what comes next. View the full article

Before the EV EraThe Volkswagen Golf has played just about every role you can imagine: practical hatchback, hot hatch, diesel workhorse, plug-in hybrid, and even performance icon as the GTI and R. The next big leap is the all-electric ID. Golf, already teased as part of Volkswagen’s EV roadmap. But before the Golf goes fully electric, there’s one more chapter to add. Enter the new Golf Hybrid: Volkswagen’s first full hybrid take on its iconic hatchback. It lands alongside the T-Roc Hybrid and slots neatly between the eTSI mild-hybrids and the plug-in eHybrid models already on sale in Europe. The key difference is that you don’t need to mess with charging cables or wall boxes. Volkswagen says the idea is to deliver better efficiency without forcing owners to rethink their daily routines. Volkswagen How the New Golf Hybrid System WorksUnder the hood, you’ll find Volkswagen’s 1.5-liter TSI evo2 turbo four-cylinder, teamed up with two electric motors. One motor drives the front wheels, while the other acts as a generator. The result is a system that can quietly switch between electric-only cruising, series hybrid mode, or parallel hybrid drive, depending on what the road throws at you. In city traffic or at low speeds, the Golf Hybrid can glide along on electric power alone, with the gas engine taking a break. Step on the throttle or ask for more power, and the engine wakes up – not to drive the wheels directly, but to generate electricity through the second motor. Volkswagen calls this serial drive mode. Once you’re up to about 37 mph, especially out on highways or open roads, the system shifts to parallel drive mode. Now the gasoline engine takes the lead, with the electric motor stepping in to help during quick bursts of acceleration or passing maneuvers. A 1.6-kWh lithium-ion battery sits under the rear floor, storing power for the hybrid system. Volkswagen will offer two output levels, though exact numbers are still under wraps. Drivers can pick between Eco, Comfort, and Sport modes. Volkswagen Why America Probably Won’t See ItThe new Golf Hybrid is scheduled to launch in Q4 2026, starting in Europe alongside the T-Roc Hybrid. It makes perfect sense there, especially as stricter Euro 7 emissions regulations approach and smaller hatchbacks need every possible efficiency advantage to stay competitive. For Volkswagen, this fills a key gap. If you don’t want a basic mild hybrid but aren’t ready for the cost or charging routine of a plug-in, the Golf Hybrid lands right in the middle. It’s less expensive than a plug-in, more efficient than a mild hybrid, and still feels like a Golf. If you’re in the US, don’t get your hopes up. Volkswagen dropped the standard Golf here after 2021, leaving just the Golf GTI and Golf R. With the regular hatchback gone, the new full-hybrid is likely to stay a Europe-only story. So for now, Americans waiting for an electrified Golf will have to sit tight and see what shape the future ID. Golf takes. Volkswagen View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Lamborghini is at the 2026 Milano Design Week, and it's made a splash with a new special-edition variant of its plug-in hybrid super SUV. Capped at just 630 units, the Urus SE Tettonero Capsule is the rarest version of the Urus yet, and it's also the most customizable, with more color combinations possible than ever before, though you can only have the roof in black because that's what the words tetto and nero mean. As with other Urus SE SUVs (at least until the next Performante arrives), the limited edition is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain delivering 789 horsepower to all four wheels, though with such fancy paints on offer, you may not want to test the top speed claim of 193.8 mph. Urus SE Tettonero Lets Creativity Run Wild Lamborghini View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The special-edition Urus SE is available with six paint finishes for the exterior: Arancio Xanto (orange), Bianco Asopo (white), Grigio Telesto (grey), and Viola Pasifae (purple). Those of you keeping count will note that I've only listed four colors so far, and that's because the last two, Giallo Tenerife (yellow) and Verde Mercurius (green), deserve a special mention since they've never been available for the Urus before now. The verdant shade is the same one the Lamborghini Temerario debuted in, and it shifts its hues as your vantage point or lighting changes. Nero Shiny (black) paint is applied, not just to the roof, but to the whole upper section of the bodywork and its spoiler, along with the exhaust tips. You also get access to a choice of wheels in 21-, 22-, or 23-inch diameters, wrapped in Pirelli P Zero rubber, and the brake calipers come in six different colors that can be matched to external livery colors, which we get into next. Lamborghini View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article In terms of external accent colors, Sant'Agata offers Arancio Borealis (a different orange), Bianco Monocerus (a different white), Giallo Auge (a different yellow), Grigio Nimbus (a different grey), Rosso Mars (red), or Verde Mantis (a different green). You can also add the "63" logo (referencing the year of Automobili Lamborghini's inception) to the lower front doors. With more than 70 possible configurations, you can come up with a truly unique look, with or without carbon fiber for the front splitter, mirror caps, and rear diffuser. The configurator is already live, but before you head over there to stretch the bounds of taste, let's see what the Tettonero Capsule offers inside. Lamborghini's Tettonero Capsule Gets a Lavish Interior Lamborghini Inside, the passenger side of the dashboard gets a carbon fiber trim with a silk-screened printed logo of the Urus, along with another carbon fiber plaque celebrating a decade of the Ad Personam Studio, Lamborghini's in-house personalization department. Carbon fiber can also be added to the transmission tunnel, the instrument cluster, and the door cards, with upholstery in Dinamica leather and Corsa-Tex microfiber suede fabric. Lamborghini wants your interior to be finished in Nero Ade, or black, but you can choose from six contrasting colors that can be matched to the aforementioned livery options: Viola Acutus (purple), Bianco Leda (white), Giallo Quercus (yellow), Arancio Dryope (orange), Verde Viper (green), and Grigio Octans (grey). On top of that, another 12 colors can be chosen from when deciding on embroidery for the seats, headrests, and upholstery. Lamborghini View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Lamborghini hasn't revealed pricing, but you can be sure that something as low-volume as a 630-unit Lambo won't come cheap. We quite like the color combo of the example in the official images (which were shot at the Pirelli HangarBicocca, a Milanese institute focused on producing and promoting contemporary art, sited at a reconverted industrial plant), but what would your ideal spec be? Let us know below. Lamborghini View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

First Mild-Hybrid Outlander in the USEarlier this year, Mitsubishigave the Outlander PHEV a solid refresh – sharper front-end, cleaner cabin, and tweaks that kept it competitive with the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson. The changes didn’t just update the look; they made the plug-in Outlander feel more refined and kept it right at the center of Mitsubishi’s lineup. Now it’s the regular Outlander’s turn. For 2026, Mitsubishi is rolling out the first mild-hybrid Outlander in the US, adding a 48-volt system to the standard model. It’s a move that bumps up efficiency without making buyers jump straight to a full hybrid or plug-in. This update helps Mitsubishi keep the Outlander in the game as electrification becomes the norm in this segment. The bigger story is that the automaker has managed to do it while keeping the base price at $29,995 – a number that still stands out in today’s market. Mitsubishi First Mild-Hybrid Outlander ArrivesThe big news for 2026 is under the hood: a Mitsubishi-designed 1.5-liter turbo engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. You can get it with either front-wheel drive or Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control all-wheel drive. Aside from the new powertrain, Mitsubishi is keeping most of the upgrades from the 2025 refresh. That includes better seat materials, redesigned cupholders, a bigger center armrest, smarter phone charging spots, and more sound insulation. Higher trims add cooled front seats and your choice of an eight- or 12-speaker Yamaha audio system, depending on the spec. On the outside, the Outlander keeps its refreshed front end – new grille, bumper, and hood tweaks that help cut wind noise and tighten up the fit and finish. New 18- and 20-inch wheels update the look, and all the lighting is now LED, with smoked taillights for a bit more style. Mitsubishi is also adding a new LE trim for 2026, which sits between the ES and SE. It brings 20-inch black wheels, adaptive cruise, synthetic leather seats, a wireless charger, a multi-view camera, and a black headliner – all without bumping the price into premium territory. Mitsubishi Pricing Keeps It CompetitiveMitsubishi backs the 2026 Outlander with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and two years of limited maintenance. For buyers who care more about monthly payments than horsepower, that’s still a big deal. The pricing lineup is wide enough to cover both budget-focused shoppers and those looking for more features. Trim 2WD MSRP S-AWC MSRP ES $29,995 $31,795 LE $32,345 $34,145 SE $34,345 $36,145 SE w/ Tech Package $37,545 $39,345 RALLIART N/A $39,645 Trail Edition N/A $39,645 SEL $39,045 $40,845 SEL w/ Premium Package $42,095 $43,895 Black Edition $43,045 $44,845 Prices exclude $1,745 destination fee. With a starting price under $30,000, the mild-hybrid Outlander gives Mitsubishi something you don’t see much anymore: an electrified compact SUV that’s still within reach. Mitsubishi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

At the Beijing Auto Show this week, Hyundai pulled the wraps off the Ioniq V, a China-exclusive all-electric liftback built in partnership with Chinese autonomous driving developer Momenta. But the car itself is almost secondary to what it represents. As part of a broader transformation, Hyundai plans to introduce 20 new models in China over the next five years, describing it as its most ambitious product expansion in the market to date. The rollout will cover the full spectrum of electrified powertrains, from battery electric vehicles and extended-range electric vehicles across midsize to large segments. The target is clear. Hyundai wants to sell around 500,000 cars a year in China by the end of the decade, which would roughly double China's current contribution to its global sales. China accounts for more EV sales than the rest of the world combined, making it the single most important battleground for any automaker. For Hyundai, China will become a proving ground for the software, battery tech, and design language that will inevitably filter into its US lineup. Hyundai A Decade of Decline That Made This NecessaryHyundai's China story over the past ten years is a cautionary tale about how quickly a strong market position can unravel. China once accounted for about 25 percent of Hyundai and Kia's combined global sales in 2016. That figure has since cratered to around 3 percent, with market share slipping from nearly 10 percent to just 1.6 percent. The trouble started with geopolitical friction and deepened as Chinese domestic brands accelerated their EV pivot, while foreign automakers were slowed by pandemic factory shutdowns. China has rapidly transitioned away from internal combustion engines, and brands like BYD have captured precisely the buyers that Hyundai once relied on. Slow localization and a late EV response left Hyundai exposed. The 20-model offensive, including plug-in hybrids to appeal to younger buyers, is an attempt to fix that. BYD The Design Language That Could Influence Your Next Hyundai EVTo that end, Hyundai has developed a China-specific design direction it calls Origin. It's a sharp departure from the retro aesthetic of its global Ioniq lineup. Hyundai's head designer Simon Loasby described the approach as being something entirely new, aiming for a powerful road presence and immediate visual impact. While the ‘Origin’ design language is China-specific for now, Hyundai has a history of letting regional experiments influence global styling. If it resonates, elements of this sharper, more aggressive aesthetic could find their way into future US-market EVs. Hyundai View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Diving deeper, partnerships with firms like Momenta aren’t just about Chinese consumers. They give Hyundai access to a faster-moving software stack that could shape future driver-assistance systems across markets. Ultimately, if Hyundai cannot compete on cost and scale in China, it becomes harder to subsidize aggressive pricing in the United States, where EV adoption is still price-sensitive. View the full article

JaguarLand Rover products have never had the most stellar reputation for reliability, and with a new recall for almost every SUV nameplate that the company sold or still sells in America, that reputation is hardly getting any better. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has announced a recall affecting 170,169 mild-hybrid vehicles from nine model lines across a total of 35 products. In fact, the only SUV that JLR hasn't recalled is the electric I-Pace. It's a fairly serious recall, as it could lead to both a loss of drive power and exterior lighting, and we don't need to tell you why those two things happening at the same time could be particularly dangerous, especially at night. Worse still, there isn't yet a solution to the problem. JLR Recall Affects Loads of Luxury SUVs Jaguar Land Rover View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The recall has been issued because the DC-DC converter could fail, affecting the following vehicles: 2021-2022 Jaguar E-Pace (528 units)2021-2024 Jaguar F-Pace (4,449 units)2020-2024 Land Rover Defender (53,644)2021-2024 Land Rover Discovery (6,323 units)2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport (381 units)2020-2024 Land Rover Range Rover (34,930 units)2020-2023 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque (2,994 units)2019-2024 Land Rover Range Rover Sport (61,616 units)2021-2024 Land Rover Range Rover Velar (5,304 units)When an automaker issues a recall such as this, it will estimate a percentage of the recalled number expected to potentially have the problem, and this will often be a single-digit figure, but in this case, JLR estimates that every vehicle named in the recall report has a faulty DC-DC converter, a problem that has been plaguing the company's SUVs worldwide, not just in the U.S. Related: Jaguar Canceled Four New Cars Before Deciding to Go All-Electric JLR's Product Safety and Compliance Committee first reviewed this issue in September 2024 and concluded that, because symptoms progressed gradually, the fault did not pose an unreasonable risk to safety. More reports kept coming in, however, so a dedicated engineering task force was set up to investigate, though its efforts were stunted by JLR's massive cybersecurity failure last year. JLR continued work in November 2025, and in April, the NHTSA explained that it viewed this as a safety problem, not a customer satisfaction issue. So how do you know if your SUV or crossover has the fault? JLR Safety Issue Shows Several Warning Signs Land Rover View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article According to the NHTSA recall report, the problem is first revealed to customers through a red warning message that appears on the dash within 10 seconds of the converter's failure, telling them to stop safely because of an electrical fault. As the 12-volt system progressively loses charge, other warnings appear, including but not limited to warnings for failures of the lane-keep assist program, suspension, and stability control system. If the driver keeps going, the vehicle shifts into neutral, showing a gearbox fault on the cluster. JLR says the vehicle will stay on for a while, but then the center screen and the climate control both stop working. Finally, the engine shuts off, and ultimately, the battery becomes too depleted to maintain power to the exterior lighting systems. In other words, as soon as the first warning appears, owners of the affected vehicles should find a safe place to pull over as quickly as possible, or they could become stranded in the dark, becoming a hazard to themselves and other road users. Dealers will be notified on the 1st of May, but customers will only get an interim notification in June, and with the remedy still in development, JLR doesn't know when it will be able to solve the issue. Jaguar Land Rover View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A near-new Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, once owned by Dave Navarro, has sold on Cars and Bids for more than its original sticker price by $16,205. With just 250 miles on the clock, a rare four-seat layout, and a bundle of signed memorabilia, this example stands out even among modern power-hungry Shelby cars. Celebrity Ownership, Ultra-Low Miles Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Finished in Dark Matter Gray Metallic, a final-year exclusive shade, this GT500 is essentially showroom fresh. Navarro, known for his work with Jane’s Addiction and Red Hot Chili Peppers, adds a layer of celebrity appeal that collectors value. Beyond that, the car’s rare four-seat configuration and color combination make it just one of 145 four-seat examples built to this specification. This GT500 is part of the S550-generation Mustang, representing the era when the GT500 sat at the very top of Ford’s muscle car hierarchy before the newer S650 era arrived and the GTD took over. Power, Provenance, and Added Value Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Under the hood sits Ford’s supercharged 5.2-litre Predator V8, producing 760 hp, mated to a 7-speed DCT. That same engine family lives on in newer performance models like the Mustang Dark Horse SC. Originally carrying an MSRP of $86,545, this GT500 ultimately sold for $102,750. While its rarity and low mileage played important roles in that valuation, there's more to the story. Included in the sale were several signed items from Navarro, including a PRS SE Custom 24 electric guitar, a Black Kross case, and a Shelby plaque. A Deal, Despite The Premium Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Interestingly, the final price still sits below market trends. According to Classic.com, the average 2022 GT500 has traded for $114,111 over the past year. That means the winning bidder secured a low-mileage, celebrity-owned example for roughly $10,000 under market average, with signed memorabilia included. While it still sounds absurd to pay over sticker price for a used Shelby Mustang, this might be one of the rare justified instances. View the full article

More Power! It started with Teslas putting supercars to shame. Now, it's a whole industry-wide push to see whose grocery getter can make the quickest school run. Everything from electric off-roaders to BYD's latest flagship SUV already breaks the 600-plus-horsepower mark. So how does Porsche respond to that with their top-of-the-line flagship SUV? Well, it pushes four digits and sticks it to the other Chinese brands at Auto China 2026 in Beijing. At 1,140 horsepower, the new Porsche Cayenne Coupe Electric makes going out with the family an exhilarating experience. Simply put, the highest trim level makes hypercar levels of horsepower, enough to really put a smile on your face and freak out whoever is brave enough to sit at the back, at least we assume it will. 2026 Cayenne Turbo Coupé Electric Porsche View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article A New Design With a roofline derived from its most storied nameplate, the 911, Porsche tacks on the coupe name onto the Cayenne Electric. This results in a sporty yet elegant silhouette that is unmistakably Porsche. Known as the "flyline," it gives the impression of speed while standing still, while paying homage to the model that made Porsche what it is today. The A-Pillar follows the same ethos as the rear, sweeping up and over the cabin in a way that only a Porsche can. Porsche also fitted the Cayenne Electric with an adaptive rear spoiler, which blends with the rest of the body lines when stowed away. On the move, it rises to reduce drag while going at speed. The front fascia is nothing too new; in fact, it takes many of its cues from the Macan Electric. This brings the new Cayenne electric in line with the rest of Porsche's electric offerings, and allows the German marque to spread its ethos across multiple premium segments. Porsche's Head of Exterior Design, Thomas Stopka, says that "precisely drawn lines, wide proportions, and high-gloss black side window strips form a design that exudes sportiness in every detail, extroverted and clearly positioned, the new Cayenne Coupe Electric is a sports car through and through." The new design also benefits the aerodynamics of the electric SUV. Porsche claims it has achieved a drag coefficient of 0.23, whereas the typical SUV comes in at 0.25. The result is a better efficiency boost of up to 11 more miles of range. In total, the new Cayenne Coupe Electric can go up to about 415 miles (669 kilometers) on a single charge, depending on the model. The Porsche Active Aerodynamics system also includes additional air flaps that improve cooling, and it works in tandem with the aforementioned adaptive rear spoiler. 2026 Cayenne S Coupé Electric Porsche View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article Power At launch, the all-electric SUV lineup will include three variants. In typical Porsche fashion, we will have the Cayenne Coupe Electric, Cayenne S Coupe Electric, and Cayenne Turbo Coupe Electric. At its base trim, we can expect 402 horsepower with the ability to overboost with Launch Control. With this, the base Cayenne Coupe Electric can achieve up to 435 horsepower, though momentarily. The rest of the lineup follows the same pattern, but with more and more power. The Cayenne S achieves up to 536 horsepower, and with overboost, it can make up to 656 horsepower. While the top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo Coupe Electric produces 845 horsepower, with a peak overboost of 1,140 horsepower under maximum effort. For 0-60 miles per hour times, you're looking at about 4.8 seconds for the base, 3.8 seconds for the S, and 2.5 seconds for the Turbo. With 800-volt technology, Porsche can charge the car almost as fast as it goes. Sure, it's not as fast as other Chinese brands; however, it does get pretty quick, with up to 390 kW of charging via a DC fast charger. Given the right conditions, the model can even go up to 400 kW. The Cayenne Coupe Electric is also capable of charging via AC, with up to 11 kW using the vehicle's standard on-board charger and up to 22 kW for high-power AC connections. The 22 kW AC charger is an extra. 2026 Cayenne Turbo Coupé Electric Porsche View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article Additional Headlines On top of all of that, it's more or less the same story with other performance Porsche SUVs. You get adaptive air suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard for the S and the Turbo variants, but the Porsche Active Ride suspension system is an optional extra, along with rear-axle steering. Other features include the Porsche Driver Experience with digital and driver-oriented elements, including a fully digital instrument cluster, central Flow Display, and a passenger display and AR heads-up display as an option. It's also good to know that Porsche keeps a number of physical controls in the cabin, even though this is quite an advanced and futuristic model with otherworldly levels of power. There is also a Coupe-specific option that buyers can tick: the Lightweight Sport package, which can reduce the car's weight by up to 38.8 pounds. Now, that might not seem like a lot, but it also pleases the eye, thanks to a lightweight carbon roof, a carbon insert, and 22-inch wheels with high-performance tires exclusive to the package. Also included are a lightweight Pepita-pattern cloth, the Race-Tex headliner, and open-pore carbon surfaces. Additional options for the lightweight sport package include black leather upholstery and a 2+1 rear seat system. Porsche View the 23 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

No More SpeedstersThis is it, we're in the endgame now. Gunther Werks is signing off on Porsche 911 Speedsters with its final and wildest build yet. Called "Project Endgame," it means more than just the ultimate; it also means the final rendition in the Gunther Werks Speedster program. For non-Porsche enthusiasts, Gunther Werks is a well-known brand that uses modern engineering and technology to recreate and reimagine classic 911s. When simply owning a Porsche isn't enough, the folks over at Gunther Werks can probably draw up a commission – provided you have what it takes to afford their work. Gunther Werks View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article The Endgame Gunther Werks made a name for itself with classic Porsches. Their Speedster builds are particularly popular. However, this is the final rendition of the Speedster program, which means it's far from an ordinary Gunther Werks project – not to say their other projects are lacking. Exquisite detailing and thoughtful modernization. While classic Porsche purists might scoff, it's hard to invalidate the time and effort that Gunterh Werks puts in. Starting with the exterior, while it is built on the bones of a Porsche 993, it wears modern aerodynamics in the form of wider wheel arches, a big wing, and LEDs all around, tying everything together. The exterior panels of Project Endgame are made from carbon fiber. Thanks to Gunther Werk's meticulous attention to detail, the brand claims that it's around the weight of a Toyota GR86, about 2,600 lbs (claimed figures, unsure if wet or dry), but just wait until we get to the power under the hood (trunk). It continues to the interior. Not a single stone was left unturned. Every part is in theme, from the seats down to the steering wheel. Thankfully, we don't see a digital display here because that might have taken things too far. Power comes from a flat-six, but it's not your typical Gunther Werks heart beating behind the driver. Instead of around 400-plus horsepower, which is about the sweet spot of these "wild" builds, Gunther Werks went all out and put a twin-turbo flat-six from Rothsport Racing that puts out a whopping 840 horsepower and 660 lb-ft of torque that revs out all the way to 7,500 rpm. Only the rear wheels are driven on this car, and all that power and torque courses through a six-speed manual transmission. Also, the intercoolers are plated in 24 karat gold, and while that may be an exercise in excess, gold actually helps bring intake charge temperatures down. This is the same engine that Gunther Werks used in its color-shifting 911 project, which also happens to make 840 horsepower. To fit all of this in, a lot of thought was needed. Guntherwerks had to extend the rear quarter panels of the 993 to accommodate the massive twin-turbo power plant. That, and make sure that its massive rear wheels fit. Gunther Werks View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article Bespoke While this will be the final project Speedster for Gunther Werks, Project Endgame is also the first car built under GWX, Gunther Werks' bespoke coachbuilding program. Under this, clients will be able to push the limits of personalization. "Project Endgame is unlike any Speedster we've built before, with every element precision-engineered and designed in absolute collaboration with the client. Even the most granular details were taken into account and refined," said Peter Nam, the boss and founder of Gunther Werks. Details such as the gold plating, not only on the intercooler, but also on the mirrors, headlights, and gear lever, are just some of the parts that the program can deliver. Because of this, Gunther Werks will continue to push the boundaries of opulence, detail, and bespoke craftsmanship in its future projects thanks to GWX. Gunther Werks View the 20 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Trickling DownOn the surface, Honda’s latest Civic update in Japan doesn’t look like a big deal. There’s a new e:HEV RS grade coming in June 2026, and pre-orders are already open. But the real story isn’t about the RS badge. The e:HEV RS badge isn’t new if you’ve followed the Civic in other markets. What’s worth paying attention to is what Honda is adding this time: the S+ Shift system, which first showed up in the Prelude hybrid coupe. If you’re looking for big visual changes, you won’t find them here. The updated Civic looks almost identical to the refreshed US model – no bold redesigns or obvious hints that this is the sportier version. The real changes are under the skin, and you’ll notice them most from the driver’s seat. Prelude Tech Finds Its Way Into the CivicHonda’s goal with the Civic e:HEV RS was to make it feel lighter and more precise, without losing the efficiency of the two-motor hybrid setup. The main change is the S+ Shift system, which is meant to make the hybrid more engaging from behind the wheel. S+ Shift doesn’t turn the hybrid into a manual, but it does try to mimic the feel of a manual. It tweaks the way the car accelerates, changes the engine sound, and adjusts how the system responds, all to give you a rhythm that’s closer to what you’d expect from a sporty manual – even if there’s no clutch pedal. The Civic e:HEV RS also gets its own suspension tuning for sharper steering and better body control, plus a D-shaped steering wheel to drive home the sporty feel. Honda’s aiming for that sense of connection between driver and car – something you usually hear about in Type R models, only this time with much better fuel economy. Honda Could This Be Coming to America Next?For US buyers, the bigger question is whether these updates are coming here next. The current facelifted Civic already looks like the Japanese version, so it’s likely these changes are setting the stage for a North American update instead of a full redesign. Honda has already said there’s strong global demand for hybrids, and the Civic Hybrid is a big part of that plan. Adding S+ Shift to the US Civic for 2027 would make sense, especially as Honda looks for ways to keep enthusiasts interested while going further into electrification. The Prelude might be the showcase for Honda’s new hybrid performance, but the Civic is where it could really catch on. If Honda wants to show that hybrids can still be fun, the Civic is probably the best place to prove it. For now, Japan gets the first taste, but this feels more like a preview of what’s coming next than just a local update. Honda View the 15 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Following a Leak Off the back of the model being prematurely leaked before its prime time at the Beijing Motor Show, with 643 horsepower from pure battery power, it's still enough to make an impact. Images of the EV SUV leaked ahead of time, but none showed the raw power (figures) that BYD was packing under the hood (floor). That's not all: not only will there be 643 horsepower under your right foot, but BYD is also claiming a range of 550 miles (900 kilometers) on a single charge. BYD Flagship Size, Features, and Power BYD unveiled the Sealiion 08 at this year's Auto China 2026. It serves as the flagship to the brand's Ocean Series of models, which takes inspiration from the marine ecosphere. Other notable names include the other "lesser" Sealions, the Seagull, and the Seal. The Sealion 08 takes all of that and more, boasting massive dimensions coming in at 16.78 feet long, 6.55 feet wide, and 5.90 feet tall, and all on a wheelbase that's almost ten feet in length — wheel to wheel. For context, that's about the size of a Mercedes-Benz GLS, which is about a third of a foot longer than the BYD. The interior of the Sealion 08 will come in two flavors, one with five seats and one with six seats. The six-seater will likely have two captain's chairs down the middle and a pair of fold-out seats at the back, while the five-seater configuration will definitely adopt a standard bench for the middle row and no seats at the back. There also appears to be a "nub" on the roof, which suggests this model will include autonomous driving functionality. Apart from that, the Sealion 08 will also use BYD's latest dual-chamber air suspension technology, paired with the brand's rear-wheel steering system. The all-electric SUV will also be all-wheel drive, and its highlights include a dual-motor setup and acceleration from 0 to 60 miles per hour in around 5 seconds. Equally as fast is the Flash Charging technology BYD installed in this SUV, which can charge the battery back up in five minutes with the right charger. The battery technology in BYD's new flagship is, without a doubt, top-of-the-line. Predictably, all the brand's latest and greatest are present in this release. Thanks to the Blade 2.0 cell, we get a massive 550-mile range (BYD claims about 900 kilometers on a single charge). The brand hasn't revealed its battery capacity yet; however, reports indicate it's rated at about 130.5 kWh, similar to the BYD Great Tang. The total combined power of the front and rear motors is 643 horsepower, which is by no means a slouch. It is competitive, however, given that other Chinese brands seem to be fitting their grocery getters with enough power to give sportscars are run for their money. BYD Fans via CarNewsChina Over 600 Horsepower, Less than $50,000 This might be one of the most affordable ways (if you can buy it) to get an easy 600 horsepower in your garage. According to sources, the BYD Sealion 08 sells in China for just ¥300,000 CNY, which translates to about $44,000, give or take. Considering the vehicle's size and the features I assume will be next-level and plush, the Sealion 08 looks like a contender that will give other premium Chinese EV makers a run for their money. We could also perhaps see this vehicle get a Denza version. Denza View the full article

The Nissan 350Z was available as a drop-top, and so was the 370Z, but despite sharing the same platform as its predecessors, the current Nissan Z is only available as a coupe. That may change if Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer for Nissan North America, Ponz Pandikuthira, gets his way. Speaking on The Drivecast podcast, he said, "I would like nothing more than to see a convertible version of the Z out there." Nissan has been talking about several exciting models, confirming a new Xterra SUV priced under $40,000 and hinting that the Silvia could be just one sports car in the pipeline, so it's serious about attracting and satisfying enthusiasts, but these things are easier said than done. Nissan Z Convertible Is Possible, But We Have to Wait Sebastian Cenizo using ChatGPT and Ideogram Pandikuthira explained that it won't be as easy as just cutting the roof off the existing Nissan Z: "It takes a lot more work, obviously, because there's things you have to do with stiffness and stuff like that, but we have had a convertible in the two previous generations of Zs, and they sold very well. There was a large part of the mix [that were convertibles]." When pressed on how realistic hopes for a Z drop-top are, the exec said that it all depends on how things go for Nissan in the near-term. "Let's see how successful the company is in the next two years," said Pandikuthira, which is when he previously confirmed we'll get concrete info on the R36 GT-R. "If we meet those targets that we outlined and things are going really well, [a convertible] could be something we play with on a Z." Related: Nissan Is Cutting 11 Models as It Tries to Turn Itself Around Nissan's new leadership, headed by CEO Ivan Espinosa, is clearly ambitious and motivated, but let's not forget that before Espinosa arrived, most conversations around Nissan were centered on its mere survival. It's also worth remembering that while sports cars like the Silvia and Z Convertible would increase brand appeal, they would account for a relatively small percentage of overall sales, and that makes them risky from a financial standpoint. In 2025, Nissan sold just 5,487 Zs, and that was a 73.4 percent increase over the previous year. With a total of 926,153 vehicles sold in the U.S. over all model lines last year, that means the Z represented just 0.5 percent of overall sales. Autoblog's Take Sebastian Cenizo using ChatGPT and Ideogram As journalists, it's our job to be pessimistic, and the facts that Nissan still needs to rely on partnerships with the likes of Honda and is struggling in its home market mean there's no guarantee that the enthusiast vehicles like the Z convertible will be approved, even if fans of the brand clamor for them. It's also our job to be realistic and fair, and the fact that the next GT-R won't be electric shows an understanding of the market. Nissan has also satisfied the demands of those begging for a manual Z Nismo, proving the automaker has car junkies making decisions alongside the accountants. Of course, creating a drop-top Z with good structural rigidity is a tougher engineering task than refining a six-speed transmission for increased output, but with Espinosa and Pandikuthira in charge and streamlining everything at the company, we see no reason not to be cautiously optimistic about Nissan's future and its lineup. If other new products are well received in the next couple of years, Nissan will have some breathing room to expand the lineup with something like a Z convertible and/or a Silvia. Note: The images in this article are AI-generated renders and should not be considered official Nissan concepts. View the full article

Watch Your Back, MG CybersterFor a while now, the MG Cyberster has been sitting in a pretty unique spot. It’s one of the few true electric roadsters on sale today, and more importantly, one of the only proper two-seat EV convertibles. Now, it looks like it may finally have a serious rival. BYD introduced the Formula X at Auto China 2026, a two-door convertible from its newer performance brand, Fang Cheng Bao. Where the MG Cyberster feels closer to a grand tourer, the Formula X is clearly targeting a more exotic, supercar-like experience. Fang Cheng Bao is a recent addition to BYD’s lineup, launched in 2023 after brands like Dynasty, Ocean, Denza, and more famously, Yangwang. It started out focused on rugged SUVs and lifestyle vehicles, but the Formula X signals a clear move into performance cars. BYD Built Like a Show Car, Headed for ProductionThe Formula X borrows a lot from the Fang Cheng Bao Super 9 concept, following the brand’s current design language. It sits low and wide, with proportions that are unmistakably supercar-inspired. The brand calls it a 'golden ratio' silhouette and a 'hunting leopard' stance, which, while dramatic, does match the overall look. Up front, the “Sharp Leopard Eye” headlights give it a very aggressive face, while the body itself is packed with aero details. There are 19 separate air vents spread across the exterior, along with large diffusers, sculpted side sections, and an active electric rear spoiler. At the back, the “Infinite Ring” taillights keep things futuristic without looking overly complicated. A full carbon fiber body helps keep weight down and shows that the Formula X is more than just a design study. The doors are a mix between gull-wing and scissor styles, adding some visual drama. BYD Global AmbitionsInside, the Formula X is designed as a true driver’s cockpit, and it avoids the trend of replacing everything with oversized touchscreens. The cabin features a wraparound layout in gray and green, with physical buttons, integrated sports seats, a retractable steering wheel, and a four-point harness. The setup feels more suited to the track than to casual city driving. BYD plans to start production and sales of the Formula X next year. For now, Fang Cheng Bao is focused on China and a few international markets – probably including Canada – with no signs that the Formula X will be offered in the US. Regulations, pricing, and BYD’s lack of a US dealer network make that unlikely. BYD View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Audi has recalled almost 19,000 examples of its e-tron and e-tron Sportback electric SUVs in the United States for a braking system problem. Due to a manufacturing flaw, the brake pedal may detach from the brake booster, which can lead to a loss of braking capability in a worst-case scenario. The safety risk is self-explanatory, as even a minor loss of braking functionality can dramatically increase the risk of a crash. Here’s everything you need to know about this recall. Related: 12.1 Million Recalls Later, America’s Auto Industry Has a Serious Problem Audi e-tron Braking Recall Audi The recall affects 18,853 Audi e-tron and e-tron Sportback models. For the e-tron, 2019 to 2024 model years are impacted, while certain Sportbacks between the 2020 and 2024 model years are affected, too. Audi rebranded the e-tron SUV as the Q8 e-tron from the 2024 model year onwards, which means that certain Q8 e-trons will also be affected. So, what exactly is wrong with these Audis? According to documentation on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website, the fastener connecting the brake pedal and brake booster may have been incorrectly assembled. This can lead to the brake pedal detaching from the brake booster. Perhaps the most concerning statement in the recall report is this: “If a complete separation occurs, vehicle braking would only be possible using the emergency braking function, increasing the risk of a crash.” Relying on emergency braking alone is a scary thought, which is why this recall should not be taken lightly. Thankfully, as of April 9, 2026, Audi says it’s unaware of any injuries, claims, or crashes involving this brake flaw. What Owners Should Do Now Audi Audi intends to mail notification letters to owners of affected e-tron models by June 12, 2026. If you would like more information before then, you can contact Audi’s customer service center on 1-800-253-2834, using the recall number 46P7. Alternatively, you can use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check if your specific vehicle is part of the recall group. This can be done on the NHTSA website. If your vehicle is affected, a dealer will inspect the pushrod screw joint in the brake booster. If required, it will be torqued to the correct specifications, and Audi will be offering a reimbursement plan for this job. This recall is an expansion of another recall (24V621) issued for the same problem in August 2024. At that time, only 206 examples of the 2019 e-tron SUV were recalled. Audi has clearly determined that more models than expected have the same problem. Related: Audi Recalls Over 356,000 Vehicles Across 19 Models View the full article

No More ICE Variant For The C-Class? One of the questions we had when Mercedes launched the C-Class was: "Where is the ICE variant?" When BMW launched the new 3 Series, they told us to wait; it's still coming. However, Mercedes-Benz wasn't as clear right off the bat. German publication, Autobild, sat down with MB head honcho, Ola Källenius, to ask about the C-Class's future, knowing that this is the first time that the nameplate has received the full-electric treatment. The First All-Electric C-Class When asked how the model turned out after its development, Källenius said that the C-Class still has to maintain a sporty drive while remaining composed. Thanks to the air suspension, rear-axle steering, and long wheelbase, Källenius mentioned that it almost feels like a class above. Putting this into more real terms, the C-Class that Källenius is describing is likely the one that will come with all the bells and whistles. It could also hint that Mercedes is going up in price with the C-Class and possibly butt heads with other higher-end nameplates in its lineup. After that, Källenius goes into the technology that the new C-Class comes with, stating that it is the latest and greatest from the German automaker, taking advantage of AI, with a sea of pixels taking center stage on the dashboard. Autobild counters by asking whether Mercedes-Benz addressed customer complaints about the infotainment systems of prior models. Källenius assured that his team placed emphasis on ease of use and put everything that is needed at the front of the system. That means less digging – or so we hope. 
Mercedes-Benz
 Price, Other Variants, and the Answer When asked about the price of the top-of-the-line C-Class 400, which is set to retail at €70,000, Källenius said there will also be more affordable entry-level models to be unveiled at the end of the year. Referring to the all-electric C-Class variants, Källenius stated that entry-level versions will use cost-effective LFP technology, otherwise known as Lithium iron phosphate. Will we see another AMG C-Class? Källenius said that there will be something, but he refused to comment further. I do believe there is room for AMG to play in electric vehicles, but in the following question we finally get our answer. Yes, according to Källenius, we will continue to see combustion engines in the hoods of C-Classes, but there is a catch. Later this year, the combustion engine variant will be released and be Euro 7 compliant. There will also be a plug-in hybrid variant with a supposed all-electric range of 62 miles (100 kilometers). In terms of filling out a lineup, we're happy to see ICE C-Classes in the future of Mercedes-Benz, even happier that AMG is going to play around with the model, and ecstatic that Källenius has even confirmed a plug-in hybrid wagon variant for the C-Class. He also stated that a pure-electric C-Class wagon isn't on the books for now. Mercedes-Benz Not Yet All Electric For Now Mercedes-Benz is doing something like what BMW is doing. Putting an electric emphasis on one of its most popular models seems to be the popular move right now. Love it or hate it, it appears that Mercedes isn't going to leave the C-Class as an electric-only model for long. Källenius stated that we have a lot to look forward to from the new C-Class, and hopefully, we will get more details as the year progresses, perhaps even a sneak peek at what AMG's working on. Mercedes-Benz View the full article

First Look At The Cabin Nissan Didn’t ShowThe Nissan Rogue, known as the X-Trail in other markets, is about to enter a new generation for 2027. This isn’t just another update – it’s shaping up to be one of Nissan’s most significant launches in recent memory. With e-Power technology now part of the package, the next Rogue is clearly aimed at heavyweights like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid. At the official reveal, Nissan gave us the usual exterior shots and broad product details, but the interior was noticeably absent. When that happens, it’s often a sign that either the company wants to save the cabin for a separate debut or it just wasn’t quite ready to show off yet. Fortunately, leaked photos from the Middle East have surfaced, giving us an early look inside the 2027 Rogue – well before Nissan planned to let us in. New Cabin Layout, Familiar Nissan IdeasThe first thing that stands out is the center console. Nissan went with a switch-type shifter, much like what you’ll find in the Leaf. The bridge-style layout with pass-through storage underneath carries over from the current Rogue, so it’s a familiar setup for anyone upgrading from the outgoing model. For the HVAC controls, Nissan went for physical buttons and satin-silver toggle switches, which is a relief for anyone who’s not a fan of touch-sensitive panels. The dashboard appears to feature dual 12.3-inch displays – one for the instrument cluster and another for infotainment. Higher trims will likely get a larger 14.3-inch screen. The steering wheel sticks to Nissan’s latest design language, with the same two-spoke layout you’ll also see in the new Leaf. There are clear controls for toggling between the LCD meter and navigation, plus buttons for ProPILOT features. The real giveaway is the driver monitoring system mounted at the top center of the wheel, which hints that ProPILOT 2.0 with hands-off capability is coming – at least for the higher trims. Nissan What To Expect From The 2027 RogueThe 2027 Rogue has to deliver more than just a fresh look. With the Toyota RAV4 already moving forward with a full-hybrid lineup, buyers are paying close attention to how Nissan handles electrified performance, interior quality, and pricing. Based on the leaked photo, Nissan appears to be prioritizing practicality and a premium feel over futuristic gimmicks. That could turn out to be the right call. If the hybrid system delivers and the price stays in check, the next Rogue might just outshine the model it’s replacing. For now, this leaked image is probably the best look we’ll get until Nissan decides to pull the covers off the full cabin – hopefully sooner rather than later. Nissan View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Late April is not when you expect to be digging out, and yet here we are. A heavy wet storm has parked itself over the Northern Rockies, and by sunrise Friday parts of Montana and Wyoming are looking at snow totals closer to February numbers than anything spring should be producing. I-90 is compromised across most of western Montana, while Monida Pass on I-15 is in the same alert. Up on US-212 through Cooke City and US-14 through the Bighorns, the forecast word is whiteout. The shortest version: if you can wait until afternoon to drive, wait. Most of the worst conditions will have rolled through by then. If that isn't an option, the rest of this is what you're driving into. Where the Warnings Are WorstThe Gallatin and Madison ranges south of Bozeman are catching the biggest numbers. Snow totals approach 20 inches above 7,500 feet, with valley floors expecting a more modest 3 to 6, and winds gusting to 40 mph. This is the country around Big Sky and West Yellowstone, which means US-191 and US-20 into Yellowstone's western gateway are both compromised, as is Targhee Pass heading into Idaho. The warning runs through Friday noon MDT, and you can track the current status through NWS Great Falls. East of there, the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains get hit harder and for longer. That alert holds until 6 p.m. MDT, which matters because Cooke City and the northeast entrance to Yellowstone sit in the middle of it. US-212 climbs over Beartooth Pass, the highest paved road in the region, and it only just reopened for the season. Another 3 to 7 inches is coming at elevation, gusts on the Wyoming side run higher than on the Montana side, and avalanche danger is climbing through the day. NWS Billings is the office to watch here. The Crazy Mountains sit directly on I-90 between Big Timber and Livingston, and although their warning expires earliest (6 a.m. MDT Friday), it's worth knowing that's the Bozeman-to-Billings stretch of interstate at its most exposed. Further north, up against the Canadian border, the Bears Paw Mountains and Rocky Boy Reservation are under the longest-running alert of the entire event: snow continues there until noon Saturday, with 4 to 9 inches above 4,000 feet and 50 mph gusts. Over the Wyoming line, the Pryor Mountains and the northern Bighorns are carrying warnings until 6 p.m. MDT Friday. The NWS doesn't bury the message on this one: travel on US-14 through Burgess Junction could be very difficult, with whiteouts likely. If that's your planned route, pick another one. Yellowstone and the TetonsThe timing here is awkward as Yellowstone is in the middle of its spring road-opening sequence. Crews have been working toward the first full-access weekend, and now this storm is going to push the whole calendar back. NWS Riverton has advisories across the park itself, with Pitchstone Plateau picking up as much as 18 inches. The Tetons and Gros Ventre are in line for up to 20 inches on the highest peaks and gusts to 50 mph. The Salt River and Wyoming Ranges, further south, see up to 15 inches at elevation. Togwotee Pass on US-26/287 falls inside the same alert zone. Anyone heading into Jackson or Grand Teton this weekend should check nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/parkroads.htm before committing to a route, because what's open this morning may not be open by Saturday. Both Interstates at OnceI-90 between Bozeman and Whitehall is under advisory until noon MDT, with 2 to 6 inches expected through Three Forks, Ennis, and Gallatin Gateway. The morning commute window, roughly 7 to 9 a.m. MDT, lands right in the middle of it. I-15 crosses into the same alert at Monida Pass on the Montana and Idaho border, where 1 to 4 inches is on the way. Monida isn't just any pass: it's the main freight artery between Salt Lake City, Helena, and the Canadian border, and closures or slowdowns there ripple across several states. Homestake Pass on I-90 east of Butte and MacDonald Pass on US-12 are on the same alert. Western Montana has its own complications. Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley are under advisory through Friday noon for up to 3 inches, locally around 6. Roads that get wet at these elevations freeze quickly. Lookout Pass, where I-90 crosses into Idaho, falls under the same guidance. It's one of the more difficult stretches of I-90 anywhere in the country and a major Seattle-to-Minneapolis freight route. NWS Missoula has the current picture for that side of the state. Livingston, where I-90 meets US-89 heading north into Yellowstone through Gardiner, sees another 1 to 3 inches and 30 mph gusts through Friday noon. The Passes Between Montana and IdahoSouth of I-90, the two main automotive crossings between Montana and Idaho are Lolo Pass on US-12 and Lost Trail Pass on US-93. Both carry advisories until noon MDT Friday, with another 3 to 8 inches coming. Cross into Idaho and the same system is still producing: Highway 28 and the passes around Salmon get anywhere from a few inches in the valleys to more than a foot at elevation, with gusts to 35 mph. Before You DriveMost of this clears by Friday afternoon. The Yellowstone and Teton advisories run slightly later, and the Bears Paw warning holds until Saturday noon. Getty Images A few practical things. Call 511 in the state you're driving through. Montana (511mt.net), Idaho (511.idaho.gov), and Wyoming (wyoroad.info) all run road condition services, and they're more current than anything else you'll find. Check weather.gov for your specific destination rather than relying on a regional forecast. If your route goes over any of the passes in this story, the simple answer is to leave in the afternoon rather than the morning. Chains go in the vehicle if you're headed toward Big Sky, West Yellowstone, Cooke City, Togwotee Pass, or over US-14 in the Bighorns. One thing worth remembering: all-wheel drive helps you start moving. It does nothing for stopping on ice, and every bridge and overpass in the warning zone is icing over as the wet pavement refreezes. By Friday afternoon, most of this is over. The weekend looks largely clean outside northern Montana. Getting through Friday morning is the part that takes some thought. View the full article

A Familiar Name Comes BackThe Nissan Terrano nameplate has long been associated with rugged, body-on-frame SUVs built for rough roads and proper off-road use. Depending on the market (it’s called the Pathfinder in America), it was a familiar badge attached to vehicles that prioritized toughness over trends. Over time, the name quietly disappeared, replaced by newer crossovers and SUVs that leaned more toward urban comfort. Now the Terrano is back. Nissan showed off the new Terrano PHEV Concept at Auto China 2026, giving the old name a modern update. Yes, it’s a plug-in hybrid, and yes, it’s still labeled a concept. However, Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa says the production Terrano PHEV will be revealed within a year. So this isn’t just a design exercise – it’s an early look at what buyers will actually get. Nissan Built Like It Means ItNissan says the Terrano PHEV is built for both weekday commutes and weekend escapes. It’s meant to handle city traffic and dirt trails without forcing buyers to pick one or the other. The Terrano PHEV looks the part. It’s boxy, upright, and wears thick cladding, chunky tires, and a full-size spare on the tailgate. It’s clearly aimed at the new wave of adventure-style SUVs in China that blend off-road looks with electrified tech. A few touches still say ‘concept car’ – like the cube lights and roof lamps – but most of the design looks ready for production. Nissan isn’t hiding the direction here. Nissan hasn’t shared full specs yet, but the Terrano will likely borrow a lot from the Frontier Pro PHEV. Expect a dual-motor plug-in hybrid setup with about 408 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Details are still thin, but as a plug-in hybrid, it should manage about 84 miles of electric-only range on the CLTC cycle. That’s enough for most daily drives without firing up the engine. It should also get Nissan’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, which shuffles torque front to back as needed. A five-link rear suspension and an electromechanical rear diff lock are expected too, so it’s not just about looking tough—it should actually back it up off-road. Nissan Global Plans, But Probably Not AmericaNissan plans to launch the Terrano PHEV in select global markets, just like it did with the N7, Frontier Pro PHEV, and NX8. Latin America, ASEAN, the Middle East, and a few other regions are on the list. The US won’t get this Terrano. Instead, Nissan has a different plan for North America: the new Xterra, which will use its own V6 hybrid system designed just for the US, not this China-developed PHEV setup. So while the Terrano goes global, the US will have its own chapter in Nissan’s off-road return. Nissan View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

In simplest terms, the preliminary injunction ruling issued by Judge Susan C. Rodriguez in the Joe Gibbs Racing v. Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports lawsuit is fundamentally no different than the Temporary Restraining Order everyone has acted under over the past month. As part of the ruling issued on late Thursday night: Gabehart shall ‘immediately cease and desist’ from ...Keep readingView the full article

Mercedes-Benz is overhauling its electric vehicle strategy, abandoning single-source dependencies to sign a 10 trillion won ($6.8 billion) direct battery supply deal with Samsung SDI. This multi-year agreement centers on securing high-nickel NCM (nickel-cobalt-manganese) prismatic batteries, in the wake of Mercedes' unimpressive sales performance. Independently, both Mercedes and Samsung rank among the leading R&D investors globally. The automaker aims to secure a technical edge against rivals by also entering an R&D alliance to collaborate on the development of next-generation battery technology. Samsung SDI This maneuver is a direct response to a brutal financial reality. Mercedes-Benz recently reported a staggering 57 percent collapse in operating profit for the 2025 fiscal year. Battered by $1.2 billion in tariff costs and a 21 percent sales contraction in China, the automaker is executing a sweeping "Next Level Performance" cost-cutting strategy. The explicit goal is to reduce material expenditures by 8 percent by 2027. Tapping Samsung SDI is a calculated mechanism to slash supply chain logistics and bypass margin-crushing bottlenecks. The Brass TacksThe urgency of this shift crystallized on April 20, 2026, when Samsung SDI and Mercedes-Benz officially signed their first-ever EV battery supply partnership in Seoul. The agreement guarantees a steady pipeline of high-energy, high-nickel prismatic cells specifically engineered for the German automaker’s upcoming compact and mid-size electric SUVs and coupes. Mercedes-Benz While entry-level competitors rush toward cheaper LFP (lithium iron phosphate) alternatives, Mercedes is doubling down on high-nickel chemistry to maximize energy density and driving range. The partnership, as mentioned earlier, also expands beyond procurement, establishing a joint development framework for next-generation battery architectures to reinforce Mercedes-Benz’s position in the premium EV sector. Do American EV Buyers Benefit?For the American motorist, the implications of this multi-billion-dollar supply shift are sobering. The high-nickel NCM chemistry promises tangible upgrades in thermal management and raw performance, but it will not democratize luxury. Despite the company’s internal directive to trim material costs, battery packs still represent nearly 40 percent of an electric vehicle's total production value. Since the introduction of EVs, this economic fact remains unchanged. Mercedes-Benz The partnership between Stuttgart and Seoul marks the end of experimental electrification and the beginning of raw industrial survival. For the everyday buyer, the lesson is one of extreme patience. Supplier diversification is a corporate shield designed to protect profit margins, not a mechanism to lower your monthly car payment. Mercedes is arming itself with premium tech to maintain its luxury status. If you are waiting for a budget-friendly electric Mercedes-Benz, look elsewhere. Hold onto your cash, give the volatile market time to stabilize, and let the early adopters subsidize the expensive research and development necessary for the next decade of luxury transport. View the full article

Going Beyond the UKECD Automotive is a restoration company that specializes in British cars. If you look through the company's website, you'll see that they've built up a reputation for working on the classic Land Rover Defender. Over the years, it has also expanded to other models, such as the Jaguar E-type, Ford Mustang, and even the Porsche 993. That said, ECD wants to show its eagerness to evolve by building new models – this time from America: the Chevy Blazer K5. ECD Automotive Design View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article American IconThe K5 generation of the Chevrolet Blazer is an American icon, used over multiple decades by numerous Americans for different purposes. It has etched itself in the very fabric of the history of American cars. ECD has just created its own version, paying tribute to the K5 Blazer, while adding the touches that make it a true ECD project. Originally built as a showcase piece, ECD points out that it was always going to be something they'd offer to the public as well. As such, orders for K5 commissions are now open. ECD applies a lot of the hard work, precision craftsmanship, and engineering it uses on its other projects to the K5. From the striking, well-executed paint job to the finer interior designs and details, the ECD K5 is truly unique. ECDs take on the K5 Blazer to create a truly lifestyle-oriented car, honoring the Blazer's open-air motoring platform, wide stance, and backroad driving capabilities. This K5 build was engineered to respect those philosophies while also incorporating a modern approach, with comfort, reliability, and everyday driveability. ECD Automotive Design View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Bespoke TouchSince this is a bespoke restomod, ECD mixed in one-of-a-kind touches. The paint job is a period-correct two-tone of Chevy Dark Olive Poly and Frost White with a classic billboard stripe. While the interior's been adorned with buffalo-vinyl seating, it's paired with Pepita green houndstooth inlays. The climate control, audio system, and digital gauges have all been given a modern touch. Under the hood is a modern 6.0-liter V8, based on the client's request for a smoother driving experience. Prices for an ECD K5 build start at $245,000. ECD Automotive Design View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article