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Inside the US Factory Where Nissan’s Best-Selling SUV Comes to Life
Inside the Assembly LineBefore Nissan launches the next-generation Rogue, the Japanese automaker is offering a behind-the-scenes look at how the vehicle is built at its Smyrna plant in Tennessee. The sneak peek covers the entire process – from the initial stages, where assembly begins with raw steel, to the end of the line, where final inspections are carried out. The Rogue is a crucial model for Nissan, competing in the lucrative compact crossover segment against rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. That makes the Smyrna plant key to supporting production of the brand’s top seller, which has recorded nearly four million U.S. sales since 2000. See the production process below. Where the Rogue Takes ShapeOnce raw steel arrives at the facility, it moves to the stamping area, where it is formed into body panels. These panels are then sent to fitting before a network of 1,400 robots aligns and welds the chassis. Laser welding is used to join components to the frame, after which an electrostatic pre-paint coat is applied to streamline the painting process. For the 2026 model year, the Rogue is offered in a range of color options, including two-tone combinations such as Everest White Pearl TriCoat/Super Black and Boulder Gray Pearl/Super Black. Nissan provided a glimpse of the Smyrna Integrated Control Center before showing how the workers assemble the Rogue, from the wiring harness to the dashboard. Technicians also install the engine, a 1.5-liter three-cylinder VC-Turbo unit producing 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle is available with a Japan-made plug-in hybrid version based on the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV for those seeking more power and improved efficiency. Nissan From Factory to DrivewayThe final stage is a bumper-to-bumper quality check before the vehicles are released to customers. Pricing starts at $29,490, excluding destination fees, for the S trim. Buyers seeking a more off-road-oriented variant can opt for the Rogue Rock Creek, which starts at $34,390. The next-generation Rogue, meanwhile, is expected to arrive in late 2026 with Nissan’s e-Power system, a series-hybrid setup that has been around since 2016 but is only now beginning to reach the U.S. That technology could help make the Rogue more competitive, especially as the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V remain favorites not only in the compact crossover segment, but across the broader U.S. market. In addition, Nissan is exploring a family of five new body-on-frame vehicles, including the return of the Xterra nameplate. Cole Attisha View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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This Cayenne Convertible Looks Like AI—But Porsche Actually Built It
When the Porsche Cayenne first appeared, many thought the automaker had lost its marbles, but it's proven to be immensely successful—so much so that there are now Cayenne Coupes, Cayenne EVs, and, as of today, Cayenne Coupe EVs. But not all of Porsche's SUV concepts have seen the light of day, and the first-generation Cayenne Convertible that the Porsche Museum has shared on Instagram is proof that not all of them deserve to. Around the time the first Cayenne appeared, Porsche was struggling to survive, and it was clearly exploring all options. To save money, it presented two design concepts in one vehicle, but it had at least two other ideas for the Cayenne. This convertible, however, is the only one that was actually built. Cayenne Convertible Concept Looks Weird From All Angles Porsche Museum The front clip of the Cayenne Convertible looks fairly normal, but aft of the A-pillar, it all gets a little weird. A canvas convertible top (which would have been electrically operated if the vehicle had made production) slopes downward aggressively because this is a two-door. In profile, it doesn't look too bad, but the Cayenne drop-top is still anything but pretty, with awkward rear haunches and a Targa-style bar running behind the rear seats. The further back you go, the stranger it looks. Porsche crafted two different rear ends because of disagreements among the team in 2002, with the left side featuring an integrated spoiler in the tapering rear end and the right side featuring a more upright fascia that would surely have improved cargo space slightly. Porsche says the one-off prototype measures just under 189 inches in length, but that's the only technical specification provided because this is not a running model, and if it were, it would twist itself to pieces. Porsche View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Porsche calls vehicles like this one Package Function Models (PFM), which means they're created only to evaluate how everything would look and fit together. As such, the roof was cut off the Cayenne without adding additional stiffeners to the body, so the prototype has to be transported wherever it goes. But that's okay because the PFM was only built to assess four criteria: Is the seating comfortable for all passengers with such an aggressive roofline and such short A-pillars?How practical is this concept with doors that are almost 7.9 inches longer?Is the soft-top elegant, of high quality, and able to be folded quickly?How should the rear end look?Why Porsche Decided Against a Convertible Cayenne, and What Else It Considered Porsche View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Cayenne Convertible was already shared with the world in 2022, with Porsche explaining it never reached production because forecasts about its potential profitability were not positive. Doubts over whether this concept could be made attractive also lingered, as designer Michael Mauer explained. "An SUV as a convertible is a challenge both aesthetically and formally," he said. "An SUV always has a large and heavy body. You combine this with a small top half and then cut off the roof — you get very strange shapes emerging from that." Porsche Other strange shapes Porsche was pondering at the time included a genuine SUV coupe that would have only had two doors, and the polar opposite, a long-wheelbase version stretched by 7.8 inches. We're glad Porsche stuck with just a regular SUV, as these other ideas would have been expensive and could have caused the company to falter rather than thrive. With Porsche starting to struggle again this decade, perhaps it will conceptualize something out of left field again. View the full article
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NASCAR Cup Talladega qualifying rained out, Tyler Reddick on pole
Due to storms moving through the area, NASCAR was forced to cancel Cup Series qualifying at Talladega Superspeedway. As a result, championship leader Tyler Reddick will start from pole position with Kyle Larson joining him on the front row. This will be the fifth time in 2026 that the No. 45 23XI Racing Toyota will start from pole, and the second due to a rainout (Atlanta). The field will be ...Keep readingView the full article
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Honda Is Pulling Out of South Korea After 23 Years as Sales Collapse
After a 23-year run, Honda has formally announced it will terminate all four-wheel vehicle sales in South Korea by the end of 2026, while continuing to provide aftersales support to customers. This withdrawal exposes a brutal reality for legacy automakers attempting to survive in an arena dominated by tech-forward local giants and an aggressive influx of Chinese EVs. Honda A Victim of the Exchange RateThe official statement arrived via Honda Korea CEO Lee Ji-hong, who cited shifting global market conditions and severe exchange rate pressures, because Honda imports its Korean-market vehicles directly from its Ohio manufacturing plant. The persistently strong US dollar essentially vaporized the company's profit margins. Last year, Honda managed to move a dismal 1,951 cars in South Korea—a sharp 22 percent drop year-over-year. The lineup had grown uncompetitive and stagnant, relying solely on aging staples like the Accord, CR-V, Odyssey, and Pilot. Honda The Global BleedThis retreat highlights a much wider operational crisis. Honda is actively bleeding ground in key international zones as it struggles to pivot in an era where battery density and software dictate market share. In China, Honda's sales plummeted 24 percent in 2025, forcing immediate plant closures as local brands consumed the market. Globally, the automaker has recently gutted its own electric vehicle ambitions, halting development on three new EVs—including the 0 Series SUV and Saloon—to fall back on a hybrid-focused strategy, as have many other legacy auto-makers in the wake of cliff-diving electric vehicle demand. Honda Local CompetitionIn South Korea, the automotive landscape is highly localized and fiercely loyal. Hyundai and Kia have aggressively improved their technological footing, leaving little incentive for domestic buyers to look toward Japanese imports. Combine that domestic dominance with the rapid encroachment of BYD and Tesla, and Honda’s traditional internal combustion offerings look entirely misplaced in the South Korean market. The writing has been on the wall: Nissan waved the white flag and exited South Korea in 2020, leaving Toyota as the sole Japanese legacy brand still fighting for passenger car sales on the peninsula. Honda Retreating to Two WheelsTo stop the financial bleeding, Honda is pivoting strictly to what it still dominates: two wheels. The brand will retain its highly profitable motorcycle division, which currently holds a commanding 40 percent share of the South Korean market. For existing car owners, Honda is legally mandated to maintain after-sales service, vehicle maintenance, and parts supply for the next eight years. The bottom line is about resource preservation. Honda is actively trimming dead weight across the globe to redirect capital toward regions where it actually stands a chance of long-term survival. For the rest of the legacy automotive establishment, Honda’s exit serves as a blaring warning siren. If your product lineup relies on analog-era momentum and ignores the aggressive pace of innovation, your market share will evaporate. View the full article
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Ram 2500 Can Lose Stability Control Without Warning
Stellantis has formally issued a safety recall for approximately 6,605 units of the 2026 Ram 2500 pickup truck due to a noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 126. The recall centers on a defective Steering Column Control Module (SCCM), supplied by Kostal of America, which can suffer an internal fault. This mechanical failure leads to a sudden and complete loss of the vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a critical system designed to prevent slides or spins during emergency maneuvers. This recall adds to a growing list of software-based recalls. Stellantis The defect is notably dangerous because it frequently occurs as a silent failure without any prior warning to the driver. Federal safety reports indicate that the primary symptom of the fault is the ESC warning light illuminating only after the module has already failed and subsequently reset. This loss of active stability control significantly increases the risk of a crash, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles operating on slippery surfaces or carrying heavy loads. Recall ReviewThe investigation into the faulty steering modules began in January 2026 after Stellantis technical teams identified a pattern of malfunctions. Engineers confirmed the manufacturing build issue in mid-March, leading to a formal noncompliance determination on April 10, 2026. The affected vehicles were all manufactured at the Saltillo Assembly Plant in Mexico during a specific production window between September 13, 2025, and November 15, 2025. Stellantis This action adds to a mounting list of technical challenges for the Ram brand. The steering recall coincides with a separate, much larger "Blackout" recall affecting 65,348 Ram trucks from the 2025 and 2026 model years. In that campaign, a software glitch causes the 3.5-inch instrument panel to go entirely dark while the truck is in motion, potentially obscuring gear selection and other critical safety indicators. The overlapping issues represent a significant reliability hurdle for commercial fleet buyers who rely on the 2500's 20,000-pound towing capacity and require functional safety systems for legal and safe operation. What to NoteTo remedy the defect, authorized dealers will replace the faulty Steering Column Control Module with a redesigned unit free of charge. Stellantis expects to begin mailing official owner notification letters by May 7, 2026. Owners are advised to check their Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) on the NHTSA website, as searchable database entries for this specific recall (No. 26V244) were scheduled to go live on April 23, 2026. Customers seeking immediate assistance can contact FCA customer service at 1-800-853-1403 and reference recall number 36D. View the full article
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AUDI’s New SUV Delivers 670 HP and 13-Minute Charging—But It’s Not Coming Here
Designed With One Market in MindThis is not a preview of the upcoming Audi A9 flagship SUV, but an all-electric model that will not be sold anywhere else in the world except China. The AUDI E7X has officially been launched at Auto China 2026 in Beijing as the brand’s second production model, following the E5 Sportback. AUDI, mind the capitalization, is a joint venture between Audi and Chinese automaker SAIC. It aims to meet demand for luxury SUVs in China, a strategy similar to the one Porsche is pursuing. According to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner, the new E7X – which measures close to the Q7 at 5,049 mm (198.8 inches) long – draws on Audi’s design heritage while incorporating futuristic details, which may explain why it looks familiar yet new. Audi What the E7X Brings to the TableHowever, the E7X is underpinned by the Advanced Digitized Platform, which uses a 900-volt architecture, rather than the Premium Platform Electric platform found in vehicles like the Q6 e-tron. Still, the new AUDI EV packs plenty of punch, offering either 300 kW (402 horsepower) or 500 kW (670 horsepower). The latter comes with quattro all-wheel drive and 800 Nm (590 lb-ft) of torque, enough to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds. The 900-volt architecture also enables 4C fast charging, which can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in just 13 minutes. The EV is available with either a 100-kWh or 109-kWh battery pack, with the larger unit capable of delivering up to 750 km (466 miles) of range on a single charge based on CLTC standards. That cannot be directly compared with EPA estimates used in the U.S., but at least on paper, it edges past the U.S.-spec Q6 e-tron’s EPA-estimated range of around 325 miles. The Q6 e-tron is Audi’s largest electric SUV in the U.S. following the discontinuation of the Q8 e-tron last year. Audi Built for More Than DrivingThe new AUDI E7X is also equipped with a plethora of advanced technologies to cater to evolving Chinese lifestyles, including a 21.4-inch rear-seat entertainment screen, a 27-inch AUDI Panoramic Display integrated into the dashboard, and a 26-speaker Performance Series Bose sound system. It is available in both five- and four-seat configurations, with the latter tailored for executive use. Again, the E7X will be offered only in China, so getting behind the wheel of one can be a long shot. But as a sign of the brand's early promise, its E5 Sportback sibling won the 2026 China Car of the Year award. The E7X is set to launch in the first half of 2026, with a third AUDI model, an all-electric sedan, expected to debut in 2027. Audi View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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Jesse Love gained 'new respect' for Austin Hill after post-Kansas conversation
It's not uncommon for teammates to cross one another on the race track, and that's exactly what happened during last weekend's NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Kansas Speedway. Reigning series champion Jesse Love put RCR teammate Hill in a bad aero spot, and the No. 21 spun around, crashing out of the race less than 40 laps into the event. Love went on to finish fourth. Hill was ...Keep readingView the full article
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Geely's 59-MPG Sedan Might Be the Toyota Camry Killer Nobody Saw Coming
A Quiet Corner, A Big StatementWe previously reported on Geely developing one of the most fuel-efficient hybrid engines to date. Seeing it installed in a production-ready, driveable sedan at Auto China 2026 in Beijing brings that claim into sharper focus. This is no longer an isolated lab result or a theoretical benchmark. It is now a fully realized application, engineered to deliver that efficiency in real-world conditions. Tucked in a quieter section of the Geely stand sits the Preface iHEV. It does not rely on spectacle. Instead, it draws attention through proportion and restraint. The stance suggests confidence rather than flash. Based on its size and presence alone, it feels like a car engineered with purpose. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Design That Punches Above Its ClassThe Preface is classified as a compact sedan, yet its footprint leans closer to mid-sized models like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord. It even sits visually between the Volvo S60 and Volvo S90. It's 110.2 inches, giving it a planted and upscale stance. Full LED lighting and chrome accents complement the "Eric Blue" finish. A darker trim option would sharpen its sporting edge. Traditional door handles are a welcome choice. The 18-inch wheels suit the car, though its proportions could support larger rims. The design feels mature and well resolved. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Interior and Technology BlendInside, the Preface presents a clean, premium-leaning cabin. The white interior theme complements the ambient lighting, adding depth and a more upscale feel at night. A 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster sits ahead of a 14.6-inch central display, both powered by Geely’s Flyme Auto system on a Snapdragon 8155 chip. Apple CarPlay is supported, though Android Auto is absent, as expected for a China-market model. Comfort is a strong suit. Ventilated seats, a 16-speaker audio system, and generous cabin space give it a near-luxury edge. Material quality is not class-leading, but fit and finish are well executed. Ergonomics takes some getting used to, though the inclusion of physical climate controls is a welcome addition. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Powertrain and Intelligent BackboneThe Preface rides on Geely’s GEEA 3.0 architecture with support for fast over-the-air updates. Driver assistance is handled by a system with 128 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of computing power, enabling highway assist and automated parking. It positions the car competitively in the tech space. The star of the show is, of course, the iHEV system. Combining a 1.5-liter engine with an integrated electric drive to produce 308 horsepower. It delivers a strong low-speed response and can drive electrically up to 41 mph. Fuel economy is rated at 59 mpg WLTC, beating key rivals while maintaining strong performance figures. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article From Nanjing Road to Bourbon Street?I asked Victor Yang, Vice President of Geely Holding Group, whether the company sees an advantage in its U.S. manufacturing footprint through Volvo Cars and Polestar plants in South Carolina. Specifically, could Geely leverage those facilities to position itself as the first Chinese automaker to sell vehicles branded as made in the USA? His response was emphatic but measured and non-committal. He said there are no current plans for the U.S. market. Still, the industrial groundwork already exists. The supply chain, the production capacity, and the brand links are in place. The denial may be official, but the strategic potential is difficult to ignore. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Era of HybridsThe question now is whether a car like this can reach markets like the United States. The industry has been leaning heavily into PHEVs, REEVs, and full EVs, especially as demand patterns fluctuate. Yet the Preface iHEV presents a compelling case for a different path. It shows that conventional hybrids still have room to evolve and improve in meaningful ways. Hybrids are not fading. If anything, they are entering a more advanced phase where efficiency no longer comes at the expense of performance. This feels like the beginning of a new hybrid arms race. Toyota may have set the benchmark, but competitors like Geely are closing the gap quickly. The result could be a golden era for hybrids that finally deliver on all fronts. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 1 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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This 955-HP Electric Wagon Costs Under $40K: Meet China’s Answer to BMW M5 Touring
China’s Answer to the Fast Luxury WagonWagons have always had a small but dedicated fan base, even as the segment is fading in most markets. The BMW M5 Touring is the latest proof – an enthusiast’s long-roof with a plug-in hybrid system and 717 hp, priced firmly in luxury territory. It shows there’s still a real appetite for fast wagons, even if you have to pay for the privilege. China, though, is taking the fast wagon idea in a different direction. The Avatr 06T is a luxury sports wagon from a joint venture between Chinese automaker Changan, smartphone maker Huawei, and CATL, a global battery company. It delivers up to 955 hp and is offered as a pure EV or with an extended-range setup. Avatr Falcon-Inspired Styling and a Very Digital CabinAvatr claims the 06T’s design is inspired by a peregrine falcon in a dive. Ignore the buzzwords – the shape actually works. It sits low and wide, looking convincingly aggressive for a wagon. Up front, you get Avatr’s dual-layer LED lights, with the main beams tucked into the bumper. There’s a trapezoidal cooling vent and active grille, while the sides feature flush door handles and optional electronic mirrors for better airflow. Out back, a roof spoiler, full-width taillights, rear wiper, and roof rails keep things practical – at least on paper. Dimensionally, it measures 194 inches long, 77 inches wide, and 57 inches tall, riding on a 116-inch wheelbase. Inside, it’s all about screens: a 35.4-inch 4K panoramic display, a 15.6-inch center screen, and two 6.7-inch screens for the optional camera mirrors. The system runs on Huawei’s HarmonySpace 5, with AI for voice commands and cabin controls. You get three interior themes, including Twilight Purple and Dai Red – so subtlety is not the goal here. Avatr Up to 955 HP, and Still Not Coming to AmericaPerformance is where things get interesting. The base pure electric versions use dual motors at the rear, making either 603 or 673 hp, with LFP batteries good for a claimed 405 or 460 miles (CLTC). The flagship tri-motor version adds one up front and two at the rear for a total of 955 hp. Avatr claims 0-62 mph in 2.78 seconds, which is supercar-quick for something shaped like a grand tourer with room for luggage. There’s also a dual-motor extended-range version with a 1.5-liter turbo engine as a generator. It manages 205 miles on electric power alone, and a claimed 777 miles total. Pricing starts at 219,900 yuan (about $31,900) and tops out at 279,900 yuan ($40,600), which seems almost too good to be true given the specs. The catch: it’s not coming to the US, so American wagon fans will have to keep daydreaming over M5 Touring configurators. Avatr View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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This Hybrid Nissan Off-Roader Looks Ready to Bring Back the Xterra
The Reset Nissan NeedsThe Nissan Terrano is back, and this time it arrives as a global plug-in hybrid off-roader revealed at Auto China 2026. The Terrano name has historically been used on rugged SUVs in select markets, often positioned below Nissan’s largest body-on-frame offerings. This new concept signals a shift in direction. It blends electrification with traditional off-road cues, which places it in a segment that is still largely underserved. Nissan appears to be targeting buyers who want capability without abandoning efficiency. Seeing the vehicle in person in Beijing adds weight to the announcement. The concept feels close to production, not like a design study that will be diluted later. The stance, proportions, and detailing suggest that this is not just a compliance car. It feels like a genuine attempt to re-enter the off-road conversation. For the first time in years, there is a sense that Nissan is building something with a clear identity and purpose. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Boxy, Purposeful, and Xterra-AdjacentThe design leans heavily into boxy, upright proportions. It carries a strong resemblance to what many expect from the next Nissan Xterra. The flat surfaces, squared wheel arches, and upright glass give it a classic off-road silhouette. At the same time, it looks larger and more substantial than an Xterra is expected to be. It sits below the Nissan Patrol and Nissan Armada, but it has enough presence to stand on its own. It also positions itself directly against the Ford Bronco. The key difference is that Ford’s off-roader has no hybrid or plug-in variant. The Terrano PHEV arrives with that advantage built in. The concept rides on 33-inch Mickey Thompson tires and features high ground clearance, a rear-mounted spare, and short overhangs. The overall execution looks ready for production. Even if its off-road capability remains to be proven, the visual credibility is strong and convincing. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Big Hybrid Power, Real EV Range PotentialNissan has not released official power figures for the Terrano PHEV. However, there are clear indicators from other projects. The Nissan Frontier Pro suggests what the brand is capable of with its ladder-on-frame, plug-in hybrid systems. That setup produces around 402 horsepower and roughly 590 pound-feet of torque. If the Terrano uses a similar configuration, it would place it well above many midsize SUVs in terms of output. The electric-only range target is equally important. Nissan is aiming for up to 84 miles of EV driving. That figure would make it one of the more usable plug-in hybrids for daily driving. It allows owners to handle commutes without using fuel while still retaining long-distance flexibility. This combination of power and range could give the Terrano a distinct advantage if it reaches production with similar specifications. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Bring The Xterra AlreadyNissan has not confirmed plans to bring the Terrano PHEV to the United States. The company has emphasized region-specific strategies across major markets, including the UK, China, Japan, and North America. This suggests that the model could be prioritized for China, where demand for electrified SUVs continues to grow rapidly. Regulatory pressure and consumer preferences both support that direction. This approach aligns with Nissan’s broader restructuring efforts. The company is reducing complexity in its lineup while introducing more targeted products. The Terrano PHEV fits into that strategy as a focused, market-driven vehicle. For U.S. buyers, attention will likely shift to the upcoming Xterra. If that model captures the same design intent and avoids the softer positioning of vehicles like the Nissan Pathfinder, then Nissan could be setting up a stronger return to form in the off-road segment. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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Lynk & Co Introduces a Ferrari-Sized GT Concept That Stretches Its Body
A 2+2 GT Coupe That Looks Like a Ferrari The Geely Group recently unveiled a concept at the 2026 Beijing Show that marks the 10th anniversary of one of its brands. Lynk & Co, while unknown in America for now, is a popular marque in Europe. Lynk & Co and Zeekr are two brands that the Geely Group plans to bring in. Known for delivering a premium driving experience at a mid-range price. The brand also has campaigns in the World Touring Car Racing series with its compact sedan, the 03. This year, Lynk & Co unveiled a new concept that's all-electric and aimed at proving the brand's mettle in the GT segment. A stark contrast to its current lineup of compact SUVs and sedans, this is the first time that the brand is branching out into a very bold category. Lynk & Co The GT Concept Dubbed the "Time to Shine" GT Concept, the model undoubtedly catches attention. It features dimensions that are similar to those of other GT cars from established brands. The Ferrari 12Cilindri sits at about 15.5 feet long. Lynk & Co's GT concept is only slightly longer at 15.6 feet. The design takes several cues from other name-brand GT carmakers, adopting a long hood, fastback roofline, massive spoiler, large wheels, and a long-slung stance with swooping lines throughout. You could say it has a bit of Toyota GR GT in it, or a bit of Aston Martin. In any case, its dimensions and appearance aren't the only interesting aspects of this car's exterior, because there is a button on the center console that lets it adjust its length and lower its ride height by 0.6 inches. Whenever the term "active aero" is thrown out, you can expect maybe a front splitter, rear spoiler, suspension lowering, or even a rear air brake in more exotic cases. Lynk & Co's execution includes a rear spoiler that pitches up to reduce drag and add downforce, but it also includes front and rear bumpers that extend the car by an additional 3.9 inches. Active aero like that is interesting, and while Lynk & Co haven't published the downforce gains of this system, it's one of the most interesting ways that a manufacturer hunts for downforce at speed. While it's not as niche as GM's drift-spec active aero, it's certainly a unique take on improving aerodynamics. Lynk & Co View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article An Adaptive... Interior? If you've ever pressed a drive mode selector in a car, you can expect the throttle response to get sharper, screens to change layout, or even ambient lighting to start glowing an aggressive shade of red, but how about retracting screens to remove distractions? Yup, pressing that button will make the infotainment screens move out of the way so you don't get a face full of pixels as you drive. On top of that, the interior is futuristic to say the least. Since the concept is for Grand Touring, it features a bespoke interior setup, with bucket seats, a very memorable steering wheel, a focused set of digital gauges, and a color scheme that is not too dissimilar from what the Geely Group has been putting in their normal road cars (which is kind of a good thing depending on who you ask). Lynk & Co View the 9 images of this gallery on the original article 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 2 seconds Lynk & Co is keeping the tech specs of this concept confidential for now, but the brand has confirmed it will be all-electric and rear-wheel-drive. According to the brand, the electric rear-wheel-drive system can launch the car from 0 to 62 miles per hour (100 km/h) in just 2 seconds. If I were to make a guess, we're definitely looking at over 1,000 horsepower of output. Also, I'm pretty sure the Geely Group will have its 4-minute charging system on board if ever this Concept makes it to market. There is also talk about an AI-driven digital chassis, the details of which aren't yet known. It's likely that the Geely Group is taking some notes from Lynk & Co.'s TCR Touring Car Championship efforts and putting that know-how to good use in developing this concept. Right now, the Time to Shine GT Concept is not slated for production, but will be used as a gauge of public interest. It would be wild for the Geely Group to greenlight this project; it will be going up against the likes of Porsche, Mercedes-AMG, and Aston Martin, to name a few. The question is whether it will have the brand value to be recognized. Lynk & Co View the 14 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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Brabus Could Be Building a 1,000-HP Aston Martin Vanquish Coupe
Early Clues SurfaceBrabus has released new teaser images on social media of a new coupe that, based on its silhouette and design cues, could be derived from the Aston Martin Vanquish. One of the hashtags, “Bodo” – a reference to company founder Bodo Buschmann – is believed to hint at the name of the brand’s latest project. Few details have been disclosed, but given how Brabus typically tunes its cars to unlock more power – as seen in its 986-horsepower Mercedes-AMG GT S E Performance build – the “Brabus Bodo” is expected to push the Vanquish to the extreme. Brabus/Instagram Not Just Any Donor CarFor the uninitiated, the Vanquish is Aston Martin’s flagship model, so whatever Brabus is working on is likely shaping up to be something extra special. The Vanquish comes with an in-house 5.2-liter twin-turbo V12 that produces 824 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. Like the Ferrari 12Cilindri, the British grand tourer retains a V12, rear-wheel-drive configuration at a time when many performance cars are moving toward smaller engines and hybrid-assisted all-wheel drive. Based on Brabus’ website, the Bodo project is said to embody the “ambition to go further” and “to push harder,” so the numbers could be remarkable. For now, the Brabus Rocket 1000 appears to be the benchmark, as it pushes output to 986 horsepower (or 1,000 metric hp) while adding aggressive carbon fiber bodywork for improved aerodynamics. A previous report showed alleged leaked images of the Brabus Bodo V12, featuring a long hood, quad LED taillights, and a quad exhaust system. These details suggest the upcoming model could adopt a distinctly aggressive design that sets it apart from the standard Vanquish. Brabus/Instagram The Clock Is TickingAs of this writing, the Bodo countdown stands at 20 days, pointing to a reveal around mid-May 2026. One of the few clues the company has shared is: “The 77 is more than a number to us. It is a date. It is a place. It is a statement,” suggesting the number “77” could also appear on the model’s nameplate. Once revealed in production form, the vehicle would join Brabus’ high-performance portfolio, which is largely made up of Mercedes-AMG and Porsche-based builds. The company’s work is not limited to sports cars, though, as it also modifies SUVs such as the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and Land Rover Range Rover, even working on 6x6 versions of the Mercedes-AMG G-Wagon. Brabus/Instagram View the full article
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Judge rules against anti Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway group in effort to ballot track protections
One of the most prominent and well-organized efforts to undermine auto racing at the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway was affectively defeated, for now, due a self-inflicted clerical error … just not the one that was originally at the forefront. Former racer Neil Chaffin sued Saul Solomon, a former Nashville Metro legal director and political strategist Mike Kopp, founders of the 'Restore ...Keep readingView the full article
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This Frontier V6 Survived 300 Hours at Redline—Now It’s Nissan’s 20 Millionth Engine
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
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Jim France to step down as NASCAR CEO in major executive shift
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
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BMW Might Put Its 31-Inch Theater Screen in an SUV
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
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BMW’s Rarest M2 Yet Takes Inspiration From Superbikes
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
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The Bugatti You Know Is Gone—VW Group Has Sold Its Final Stake
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
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Volkswagen Golf Goes Full Hybrid—And You Don’t Need to Plug It In
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
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Lamborghini’s Rarest Urus Yet Lets You Build It Almost Any Way You Want
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
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2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Adds Mild-Hybrid Power While Staying Under $30K
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
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Hyundai Aims to Double China Sales With 20 New Models—And Its US EV Future May Depend on It
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
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RECALL: Jaguar, Land Rover, and Range Rover Hybrid SUVs Could Shut Down Without Warning
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
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Dave Navarro’s 250-Mile Shelby GT500 Sold for More Than New—And It Might Still Be a Deal
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
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New Porsche Cayenne Coupe EV Debuts With 1,140 HP, Bringing Hypercar Power to an SUV
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