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A month after BMW revealed the new i3—essentially an electric 3 Series—its great rival has responded with the electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It marks an all-new era for the iconic compact sedans, and the new C-Class has been completely redesigned for the challenge. From its coupe-like profile to a jaw-dropping amount of tech inside and the bold claim that it rides as well as an S-Class, it’s a complete departure from the current gas-powered C-Class. But in order to edge its rival, the C-Class will also have to be a great EV. Has Mercedes nailed it or not? Here’s a first look. Fastback Design Deviates From Traditional Sedan Look 2027 Electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article The new electric C-Class completely reimagines the traditional look of the sedan. In front, there’s a larger iconic grille with optional illumination and a chrome frame. This panel grille features optional animation when the vehicle is opened, closed, or charged. The new headlights have Mercedes star motifs, as we’ve become used to seeing on the latest vehicles from the brand. Digital Light headlamps are optional, and for the first time in the U.S., these will be offered with a partial high beam function. Flush-fitting door handles and that fastback rear define the sleek side view. Those door handles contribute to a drag coefficient of as low as 0.22. Deep red star design taillights also have the star motif. 2027 Electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article In terms of size, the car’s wheelbase is 3.8 inches longer than the combustion-powered C-Class, but the short overhangs mean its body may not be longer. “With the all-new electric C-Class, we have made a profound statement: reinventing classic elegance for the electric age,” said Bastian Baudy, Chief Design Officer, Mercedes-Benz Group AG. “Its distinctive coupe-like silhouette, sculpted with taut surfaces and muscular wheel arches, radiates a powerful emotional appeal.” Interior: Screens Galore, More Space, and Sustainable Materials 2027 Electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Mercedes revealed the interior a few days ago, but now we have a clearer look at it from all angles. The new screen-festooned dashboard catches the eye first, with three different display options: 10.3-inch driver’s display, 14-inch center display, and digitally animated panel (standard equipment)MBUX Superscreen with 10.3-inch driver’s display, 14-inch center display, and 14-inch passenger-side display (optional)MBUX Hyperscreen with continuous 39.1-inch display (optional) Mercedes-Benz The Hyperscreen looks best, as it does away with the bezels of the other two options. Elsewhere, it’s the modern Mercedes interior we expect. There’s extravagant ambient lighting, high-end materials like “Twisted Diamond” design Nappa leather, and plenty of tech, including the available Sky Control panoramic roof with 162 illuminated stars. For the more environmentally-conscious customer, a certified vegan interior option is available. Mercedes-Benz Mercedes has incorporated a number of noise-reducing measures, which includes standard noise-insulating front door glass and a quieter air-conditioning system. The new climate control system heats up twice as fast as the one in a combustion-engined vehicle, further improving comfort. There’s also more space than in the gas-powered C-Class, with greater front legroom and overall headroom. Here are just a few of the advanced features available inside the C-Class: Burmester 4D sound systemMassage function across entire backrest11 high-resolution ambient stylesMBUX Virtual AssistantMBUX Augmented Reality Head-Up DisplayAI integration of ChatGPT4o, Microsoft Bing, and Google GeminiAlthough touchscreen-based controls dominate, Mercedes has incorporated new physical roller switches on the steering wheel for volume control and the cruise control. There’s another row of physical switches lower down for the hazards, driving mode selection, and volume. Overall, it’s a cabin that looks upscale and ultra-modern. Performance, Range, and Charging Mercedes-Benz The first variant of the new C-Class to be available at launch will be the C400 4Matic Electric. Producing 482 horsepower and with standard all-wheel drive, it’s capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.9 seconds. That power comes from the combination of a permanently excited synchronous motor on the rear axle and another motor on the front axle. Under low load, the front motor can be decoupled, which improves efficiency and range. The rear axle features a two-speed transmission, which boosts performance and efficiency, with the second gear designed for power delivery at higher speeds. Depending on the driving mode, the shift points will differ. With 800-volt technology and a 94-kW battery, the C-Class is capable of fast charging and a long range per charge. Mercedes claims a WLTP-rated range of 762 kilometers, which works out to around 473 miles. Expect closer to 400 miles by EPA standards, which means the 440-mile BMW i3 would be ahead in this department. Mercedes-Benz DC fast charging at up to 330 kW is possible in the Mercedes, again slightly down on the BMW’s 400 kW maximum. Still, the Mercedes will be able to add around 200 miles of range in 10 minutes, which is impressive. A standard DC converter enables charging at 400-volt charging stations when needed. Mercedes has made the bold claim that the C-Class delivers levels of comfort and smoothness to match the S-Class on longer journeys. The optional Airmatic air suspension and 4.5-degree rear-axle steering deliver high levels of sportiness and comfort, depending on the driving mode. These capabilities can be unlocked by opting for the Agility & Comfort Package. With this, the car can automatically adjust the damping before encountering a speed bump. The new braking system offers a consistent pedal feel and can bring the car to a stop without you needing to touch the brake pedal, based on the level of recuperation chosen via the steering wheel shift paddles. 
Mercedes-Benz
 Further adding to the elevated driving experience will be City Pro, a point-to-point driving experience that can automatically navigate the car through heavy city traffic. This function will be available at a later stage. “The all-new electric C-Class is redefining the mid-size segment for electric vehicles. Customers will get exactly what they expect from this new version of the beloved model: the perfect blend of performance, comfort, dynamics, and intelligence,” said Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Pricing for the electric C-Class hasn’t been announced yet, but we expect the C400 to start at close to $60,000 when it goes on sale. It arrives at U.S. dealers in the first half of 2027. What It Means Mercedes-Benz The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is no gentle evolution of the current, gas-powered C-Class. It had to be revolutionary, though, as BMW has taken a similarly large leap forward with the i3. With this C-Class, Mercedes is also trying to shed the mediocre reputation of previous EQ-badged EVs. The C-Class has dropped the ‘EQ’ moniker entirely, and it has also moved away from the excessively rounded and polarizing design themes of models like the EQE and EQS. We expect a new gas-powered C-Class to adopt the same look and technologies of the electric sedan you see here. The stage has been set for a heated face-off in the EV segment between BMW and Mercedes next year. View the full article

The Pacifica Hybrid's Sudden Engine Shutdown RecallBack in 2023, Chrysler announced a recall for its Pacifica Hybrid. The reason for that was the minivan's risk of shutting down the engine while in motion, potentially leading to an accident. It affects over 67,000 vehicles for the model years 2017 to 2023. Models from 2024 and later are not included. The main issues revolved around an internal transmission wiring connector. That part suffered a short, resulting in an unexpected engine shutdown. At the time, Chrysler said it would repair the affected vehicles with a software update that would warn drivers that the engine is about to shut off. It was said that the warning would give enough time to pull over before things got any worse. Afterward, Chrysler rolled out a software update to reflash the inverter module, reducing the risk of an unexpected shutdown. At the time of writing, no accidents have been reported due to the prior fault. Unhappy OwnersA number of owners were unhappy with the company's solution. Car Complaints reports that a class-action lawsuit has been filed against Chrysler, alleging that it's playing "Russian Roulette with the lives of their vehicle occupants." There are 30 plaintiffs involved in the class action lawsuit, and according to the report, "the minivans would not be properly repaired." The plaintiffs want Chrysler to buy back the vehicles, claiming they were "injured" because they overpaid for their Pacifica Hybrids. Not only that, the suit wants the company to buy back over 67,000 affected minivans as a resolution, not just those from those who filed the case. Stellantis What the Judge SaidIn this case, the judge sided with the plaintiffs, citing that they "have suffered an injury in fact." However, the judge said that while the lawsuit can continue, it cannot under the current motion. The judge ruled, "The class action lawsuit will not cover all the vehicles nationwide." Instead, it can continue in "18 state-specific sub-classes." With that, the buyback of over 67,000 Pacificas won't happen. However, Chrysler isn't completely out of the woods yet, and it will be interesting to see how this case unfolds. The minivan itself cannot afford another massive recall, as it remains the company's sole offering, although new models are expected soon. View the full article

A Tiny Dent, A Massive BillA Reddit post has highlighted how a seemingly simple fender bender on a Rivian R1T turned into a $14,000 repair. What appears to be a simple parking-lot mishap quickly escalated because Rivian’s one-piece bedside construction integrates multiple structural elements into a single panel. Instead of a quick fix, the job required extensive teardown, transforming minor damage into a major repair operation. At a Rivian-certified facility, labor rates reportedly reached $125 per hour for body work and $175 per hour for mechanical work, with technicians removing large sections of the truck to access and reshape the damaged area. Even with the owner choosing to repair rather than replace the panel to avoid more invasive work, the process still required full side paint blending and careful reassembly. As Rivian continues to push for tighter technology integration in models like the Rivian R1S, the downside is becoming harder to ignore: even minor accidents can carry massive repair costs. Rivian’s pricing has gone up graduallyRivian has been quietly adjusting pricing across its lineup, even removing early estimates for upcoming models like the Rivian R2. At the same time, quality concerns have not exactly faded into the background. A recent recall tied to a separating toe link joint shows the company is still ironing out foundational issues while pushing forward with new products. And this is not an isolated repair horror story. Previous reports have shown minor collisions on the R1T ballooning into repair bills approaching 40,000 dollars. The common thread is design complexity. Integrated panels, embedded sensors, and extensive teardown requirements mean labor hours stack up quickly. What used to be a body shop's afternoon now becomes a multi-day disassembly process. Reddit: u/JonjakobJinkleHymer View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Cost of Advanced Technology and DesignThere is no denying that Rivian is building some of the most interesting EVs on the road. The engineering ambition is impressive, but it comes with real-world consequences. When a single panel incorporates structural, aesthetic, and functional elements, repairability takes a back seat. Owners are left to deal with insurance claims that seem disproportionate to the damage. That is a problem Rivian cannot ignore. The company is still burning through cash at an aggressive rate, and recent delivery figures show momentum is not guaranteed. It needs a win, not just in innovation but in ownership experience. Because if a small dent keeps costing money on a used Toyota Corolla, even the most loyal early adopters might start thinking twice. Reddit: u/JonjakobJinkleHymer View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Winter is making one more run at the country this weekend, with active Winter Storm Warnings in Alaska, accumulating snow across the Rockies and a sharp temperature crash heading for the eastern half of the United States. Alaska Bracing for Up to 5 Feet of SnowThe National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings across large stretches of Alaska, where snow totals could reach 58 inches by Monday. In the Eastern Alaska Range south of Trims Camp, the forecast calls for 8 to 16 inches of snow with wind gusts to 40 mph and blowing snow reducing visibility to near zero. The Richardson Highway from milepost 202 to 224 is directly in the path. Along the Yukon Delta Coast, communities including Kotlik, Scammon Bay and Hooper Bay face 5 to 8 inches with gusts reaching 45 mph. The NWS warned that travel could be "very difficult," with wet snow on warm pavement creating refreeze hazards each night. The Winter Storm Watch runs through Monday morning. Cold Storm Hits the RockiesMeanwhile, a late-season Pacific system is delivering what AccuWeather is calling a "cold storm" across the western interior. Conditions feel more like early March than mid-April, with temperatures running 10 to 25 degrees below the historical average. As the storm presses inland through Friday, several inches to a foot of snow will fall at intermediate elevations in Idaho, western Montana and northeastern Utah. Yellowstone National Park is forecast for 4 to 8 inches. Light accumulations are expected in Pocatello and Boise, Idaho, Great Falls, Montana and Salt Lake City. The temperature swings are the real story for drivers. In eastern Wyoming, highs will drop from the 60s and near 70 on Thursday into the upper 20s and lower 30s on Friday. Colorado will spike into the 70s Thursday before crashing into the 30s Friday. Laramie, Cheyenne and Aspen could all see an inch or two of accumulation. Wet roads that freeze overnight are the primary hazard on mountain passes across the region. The Weather Prediction Center is also tracking snow squalls and convective bands across Utah and Wyoming, with the heaviest terrain-focused snow shifting over Colorado through Friday. A follow-up system is expected to reach the West Coast by Sunday, bringing another round of rain and mountain snow. Midwest and Northeast Temperature CrashThe same pattern change will hammer the eastern half of the country. Highs in the 70s, 80s and even 90s that have been baking the East Coast all week will be replaced by readings in the 30s, 40s and 50s within one to two days. In northern New York and northwestern New England, the cold air may arrive quickly enough on Sunday for rain to briefly mix with or change to snow. Late-season light snowfall is also expected over the Upper Great Lakes and Upper Mississippi Valley from Saturday into Sunday. If your vehicle is not set up for a sudden return to winter conditions, Autoblog's winter car readiness checklist is worth reviewing before you head out this weekend. View the full article

If you're driving across the Sierra on Tuesday or Wednesday this week, the trip is going to look very different from the clear roads of the past ten days. A Pacific trough is dropping snow levels to pass elevation from Tuesday morning onward, and by Tuesday night I-80 and Highway 50 are likely to be in chain controls at the same time, with no practical alternative through the central range. If your timing is flexible, Monday or Thursday are the two clean windows. The National Weather Service office in Reno has a Winter Storm Watch up for the Sierra Nevada from 5 a.m. Tuesday, April 21 through 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, with an upgrade to a Warning likely once confidence firms up. The NWS Weather Prediction Center has the same setup in its national discussion: onshore flow and upper-level impulses driving rain and higher-elevation snow across the Pacific side of the West. The Watch covers the Greater Lake Tahoe Area, the Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra counties, and Mono County. NWS Reno is calling for 4 to 10 inches above 6,500 feet, 12 to 18 inches along the highest peaks, and 1 to 4 inches at lake level, with the west shore most exposed. Ridgetop winds could gust to 90 mph. Separately, a Lake Wind Advisory runs today (Monday, April 20) from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT: southwest winds 10 to 20 mph, gusts to 35, 1 to 3 foot waves on the lake. This Watch lands just over a week after a considerably stronger system dropped 2 to 3 feet on the Sierra and closed I-80 in both directions on April 12. This one is smaller, but it arrives late enough in the season that most people have already swapped to summer tires and put the chains in the garage. California's April 1 snowpack came in at 18 percent of average, the second-lowest April reading on record, with the Northern Sierra at 6 percent. March was the warmest and driest on record statewide. Timing and Highway ImpactSnow levels start Tuesday morning near 6,800 feet. That puts the first chain controls over the top of Donner Summit between Kingvale and Donner Lake. Through the day, steadier snow moves in and levels drop toward 6,000 feet, which pushes controls down to Blue Canyon and Truckee. Tuesday night is where this storm earns the Watch. Snow showers continue, another 1 to 3 inches possible at lake level, much more at pass elevation, and the wind picks up. Wednesday morning is the break. Snow tapers before 11 a.m., roads clear, chain controls come off through midday. Then a second system moves in Wednesday afternoon into the evening, which will likely put controls back up over Donner before clearing out overnight. Thursday: sun, high near 52 at South Lake Tahoe. I-80 over Donner Summit (7,240 ft) is the primary concern. It's the main east-west artery across the Northern Sierra, controls are near-certain Tuesday and probable Wednesday evening. Highway 50 over Echo Summit (7,382 ft) faces the same exposure with fewer plowing resources. When both corridors tighten at once there is no practical alternative through the central range. US-395 along the eastern Sierra gets gusty winds and accumulating snow on the side roads toward Mammoth and June Mountain. Carson Pass on CA-88, CA-89, anything above roughly 7,000 feet, all of it tightens earlier than the Interstates. Road Conditions and What to ExpectThe pattern on a spring Sierra storm like this is not deep snow, it's transitions. Pavement will cycle through wet, slushy, snow-packed, and refrozen inside the same drive. The worst of it tends to land in two places: bridges and overpasses, which ice before anything else, and the last mile or two before each summit, where the grade steepens and snow levels catch up to the roadway quickly. Controls will likely start as R-1 (chains or M+S tires required on commercial vehicles) and escalate to R-2 (chains on everything except 4WD/AWD with M+S tires on all four corners) as accumulation builds Tuesday afternoon and evening. R-3, which requires chains on every vehicle including AWD, is less common but possible overnight Tuesday into Wednesday if winds pick up and visibility collapses. Short closures for spin-outs and over-the-hood drifting are more likely than a full multi-hour shutdown based on current guidance, though the April 12 system did close I-80 in both directions and a smaller one can do the same if the timing lines up badly. AAA Visibility is the part drivers underestimate. Wind-driven snow across open sections of I-80 near Boreal and along the exposed stretches of US-395 can drop visibility to a few car lengths with almost no warning. If you can't see the tail lights of the car ahead, slow down well before you think you need to. Tuesday night is when all of this converges: falling snow, dropping snow levels, picking up wind, and traffic from people who left later than they should have. Before You GoChains are required above 4,000 to 5,000 feet during active controls. AWD is not exempt from R-3 restrictions. The statewide 511 line carries live chain-control status for California; Nevada drivers can dial 511 in state. Carry chains even if it looks clear at departure. Conditions shift fast on the passes. View the full article

Daytona, Atlanta, COTA, Darlington, and now Kansas: Tyler Reddick is now 5/9 for NASCAR Cup wins in 2026, and 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan has been one of the first people to congratulate him after every single one. The NBA legend has been at the track constantly early in the season, and he has been watching from pit road as Reddick earned each of his five victories thus far. But ...Keep readingView the full article

Denny Hamlin was half a lap away from taking the white flag in the NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas, one that seemed largely decided between himself and Tyler Reddick, but then Cody Ware cut a tire and spun out. Shake the snow globe! Hamlin retained the lead off pit road, with most of the frontrunners taking just right sides, but lost it on the restart when he didn’t get the best launch ...Keep readingView the full article

Stat: For the first time since 1987, a driver has won five of the first nine races, and the last driver to do it was Dale Earnhardt. This time, it’s Tyler Reddick and the 23XI Racing No. 45. “Yeah, that's a guy on the Mount Rushmore of NASCAR drivers,” Reddick said after winning the AdventHealth 400. “To be able to accomplish things that someone like him did is truly incredible but ...Keep readingView the full article

Can anything stop Tyler Reddick at this point? The 23XI Racing driver now has five wins in the first nine races of the 2026 NASCAR Cup season, and he now has a 105-point lead in the championship. His boss, Denny Hamlin, has jumped up into second in the overall standings, and the two drivers did battle in the closing laps at Kansas on Sunday. Around the Chase cutline, things have changed as ...Keep readingView the full article

Building Out a Robotaxi MapTesla has expanded its unsupervised Robotaxi service to two additional cities, Dallas and Houston, bringing its total to three locations in Texas. The company also operates in the San Francisco Bay Area, though that deployment still requires a safety driver. The move could prove pivotal for Tesla, as the company looks to evolve beyond electric vehicles and lean into robotaxis and even a humanoid robot known as Optimus. But the trade-off is ending production of the Model S and Model X, two of its earliest mainstream nameplates, to make room for what comes next. Robotaxi now rolling out in Dallas & Houston 🤠 pic.twitter.com/G3KFQwqGxB — Tesla Robotaxi (@robotaxi) April 18, 2026 Tesla’s Rollout StrategyIn a post on X, Tesla Robotaxi shared a 14-second video announcing its rollout in Dallas and Houston, showing a Model Y operating without a safety driver. The company also outlined the geofenced service areas, with Houston covering parts of Willowbrook and Jersey Village, and Dallas centered around Highland Park. These are just two of several cities Tesla plans to roll out robotaxis in during the first half of 2026. Disclosed during the company’s Q4 2025 earnings call, the list also includes Phoenix, Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Las Vegas, with the latter’s strong tourism demand helping support robotaxi services. Real-world data gathered from robotaxi trips could help the development of the upcoming dedicated robotaxi, dubbed the Cybercab. Unlike the Model Y, the Cybercab has only a two-seat cabin, which may limit space but could still prove convenient for solo riders or two passengers, while the lighter EV is expected to be more cost-efficient. Moreover, producing a smaller vehicle like this could allow the plant to build more units without driving up costs as much. Getty The Vision Beyond Electric CarsIf anything, the expansion into more cities offers a glimpse of Tesla’s future direction, alongside the aforementioned Optimus humanoid robot, which is even seen as potentially larger than its vehicle business in the long term. But of course, Tesla will face competition. Aside from the current leader, Waymo, Rivian is also entering the space through a partnership with Uber. By 2028, the tie-up aims to deploy 10,000 R2-based robotaxis, with San Francisco and Miami among the first launch cities. The segment is also set to diversify further through Uber’s robotaxi program with Volkswagen, which plans to deploy ID. Buzz vans in Los Angeles. Getty View the full article

The Case Against Going CordlessThere is no question that wireless charging is less efficient than plugging in directly. Phones and smartwatches have already shown that, so skepticism about applying the same idea to electric vehicles is understandable. But according to Jason Fenske of Engineering Explained, Porsche may have made one of the strongest cases yet for why the technology can work. Fenske, who has an engineering degree and owns a Lucid Air, said he went into the experience skeptical and asked Porsche engineers directly about the system while testing the upcoming Cayenne Electric. The German automaker claims its wireless charging setup is about 90 percent efficient, peaking at 92 percent under ideal conditions and dropping to 89 percent in worst-case scenarios. For comparison, a conventional Level 2 wired charger operating at 9.6 kW is said to be about 96 percent efficient. Porsche’s wireless setup, meanwhile, can charge at up to 11 kW. After losses, that means the wireless system can still deliver roughly 10.25 kW to the battery, compared with about 9.22 kW for the wired setup. The Math Behind the ClaimUsing the Cayenne EV’s 108-kWh usable battery pack as an example, Fenske estimated that a full Level 2 wired charge would consume about 112.5 kWh from the wall, compared with 121.3 kWh for wireless. At an average U.S. electricity rate of $0.173 per kWh, that works out to about $19.46 for wired charging versus roughly $21 for wireless. Over 200,000 miles, Fenske estimated that wireless charging would add only around $1,000 in electricity costs versus wired charging. Based on the average American driving about 13,000 miles per year, it would take roughly 15 years to reach that gap. The bigger drawback is the upfront cost. The ground pad is priced at about $6,500, while the Cayenne hardware costs around $1,650. Still, Fenske noted that total lifetime charging costs with wired Level 2 charging could reach about $22,145, only modestly higher than an estimated $20,760 for Level 1 charging over the same period. Porsche Paying for EasePorsche also appears to have addressed many of the usual concerns surrounding inductive EV charging. The pad can be installed outdoors, and the system includes safeguards for real-world use. Fenske ultimately came away convinced that the technology is viable. At its core, wireless charging is about paying for convenience. Instead of grabbing the connector and plugging in, EV owners can simply park over the pad and walk away. In that sense, it is similar to ordering food through a delivery app: it costs more, but the convenience is the point. The Cayenne Electric is expected to arrive in the U.S. in summer 2026 with a starting price of $109,000. It will join the Macan Electric and Taycan in the brand’s EV lineup, while the all-electric 718 Cayman and Boxster are still expected, despite rumors suggesting the automaker may have canceled them amid broader uncertainty around the future of EVs. Porsche View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Tyler Reddick has now won five of the first nine races to open the 2026 NASCAR Cup season, passing Kyle Larson in the final seconds of Sunday's race at Kansas Speedway. Chase Briscoe, who restarted 11th in overtime with four fresh tires, surged all the way up to third by the time the checkered flag flew. Denny Hamlin led the way at the start of the final two-lap dash, but fell back to fourth ...Keep readingView the full article

Championship leader Tyler Reddick was in the wall and running on fumes with two laps to go, but a surprise caution opened the door for him to have another go at the win. Denny Hamlin had the lead in an overtime restart, but it was Kyle Larson that powered into the lead with a three-wide pass below the apron. Reddick was nearly back to fifth after a chaotic restart, but by the white flag he ...Keep readingView the full article

A (Literal) Touchy TopicI was never a fan of software buttons. While they do have their place in certain car functions, the basics need to be covered. The industry finally seems to have gotten the message, with major players starting to move back into the physical realm. Yes, it's cheaper to simply have a screen that controls everything, and no, it's not going to be as ergonomic, and (at least some) brands are coming to their senses. In an Autocar interview with Luke Miles, founder of NewTerritory, certain design topics were brought up, which I'm inclined to agree with. NewTerritory is a design studio that has projects in aviation interior design. The firm is not in the car industry thanks to clients like Ford and Mercedes. In this interview, Miles laid out his thoughts on passenger vehicle interior design and ergonomics. Tesla Buttons = Branding You may not realize it, but the way that you interact with a car is more personal than you think. If you think about it, every brand has its standards when it comes to interaction, and one of the ways that brands can stand out. From the archives, Hyundai has pledged to keep physical controls in its cars, citing that it's not only convenient, but also safer to keep things properly keyed in. Well, that was before we caught them shoving a bigger screen in a new Ioniq 5 without physical switches. Anyway, that brings us to Miles' observation. He stated that "screens have made their way into vehicles and they're upgradeable, but unless they're dealt with well, it can be quite a lazy intervention." The term "lazy," while blunt, is the word that we could use to describe a lot of cars lately. In the last 10 years, we've seen infotainment screens balloon from about 7 inches to 10, 12, and even nearly 20 inches. The con? No more buttons, or at least only the ones you need, and nothing else. For everything else, you need to touch the glass to access the functions you want. Earl Lee/Autoblog The Case For Physical Controls Miles continued to state that "physical controls create those 'human moments' that foster the connection between car and driver." He then continued to mention how materials can affect the perception of the driver or passenger. Think about how materials are used to convey a sense of quality, and how a single interaction can give you a sense of being in a more expensive car. Needless to say, tactility plays a huge role in creating that sense of quality for consumers. Think back to the time that Volkswagen debuted its new crop of cars, only to dial back its design decisions in the next generation. Mind you, those design mistakes weren't just for on-screen buttons, but also for touch-capacitive ones. Even the iPhone's designer, Jony Ive, didn't want to just put a touchscreen in a car and call it a day, as seen in his recent work with the Ferrari Luce. Mercedes-Benz Could Buttons Make a Comeback Soon? These exercises in excess prove that buttons could be coming back soon, and some designers are working hard to bring them back into cars, as is the case with Luke Miles. However, judging by what we're seeing so far, buttons could come back into vogue first at the high end. As it stands, it's now more cost-effective and "futuristic" to just add a screen and worry about the details later. However, there are other control interfaces that may also enhance the car experience. When was the last time you used a key as an actual "key"? Nowadays, we have fobs and receivers that simply let us get into a car, press a button, and drive off. There is no "handshake," as Miles put it. Miles suggested that manufacturers will "want to invest in moments of positive friction" to differentiate themselves from competitors. While that might be the line you use with your marketing department to get them to agree with your design department, I just hope I get to live in a future where I don't always have to tap a piece of glass. Ferrari View the full article

When Denny Hamlin launched the ‘Action Detrimental’ podcast on Dirty Mo Media, he vowed to be authentically candid and honest about the hot topics of each NASCAR Cup Series race weekend. It’s proven to be a successful formula, at least until a current driver took exception to that candor, in the form of Kyle Busch. The former Joe Gibbs Racing teammates had a back and forth through the ...Keep readingView the full article

Rock Creek All the ThingsNissan currently has two off-road-oriented lines in its range. For the more rugged, body-on-frame models, those get the Pro-4X label, while the crossovers get the Rock Creek Edition tag. Currently, there's the Armada and Frontier Pro-4X, along with the Pathfinder and Rogue Rock Creek Edition. Now it seems there will be another model that will receive the latter treatment. Instagram spy photog kindelauto snapped a shot of a covered-up Kicks sporting a roof rack, among other things. This suggests a Rock Creek Edition for the subcompact crossover. Nissan Previewed in Canada?During the Montreal Auto Show back in January, Nissan showed a Kicks outfitted with various accessories that made it look ready for the first. It didn't have a badge to say it was a Rock Creek Edition, but it did appear that Nissan was hinting at it at the very least. The car was also displayed right beside a Rogue Rock Creek Edition. According to Canadian auto website RPM, the real deal will be released sometime this year, likely by Summer. The publication also reckons that it'll slot just below the SR Premium. The Spy ShotThe car spotted by kindelauto was seen in Tennessee. That little tidbit is worth mentioning as Nissan USA's headquarters is in that state. There's a good chance it was undergoing some testing, and luckily, someone was able to take a photo of it. Its entire tailgate is covered up, suggesting there are changes to that panel. The side door badge was also masked, and the wheels were camouflaged. Funnily enough, there's the same zebra-like pattern on the roof rack, though it won't be totally hidden from view. But what's more interesting here is the camo on the front. This suggests a design unique to the rest of the Kicks lineup, just like any other Nissan crossover that's received Rock Creek Edition trim. What caught our attention was the top half of the grille, which had three rectangular holes, something the standard Kicks doesn't have. Kindelauto/Instagram Nissan's on a Roll LatelyNissan is fresh off its announcement of long-term plans and the world premiere of the all-new Juke and Rogue. The program also gave a sneak peek at the Xterra revival and the reboot of its sport sedan, the Skyline. It's all part of the company's plan to regain relevance and, more importantly, to recover from years in the red. The redesigned Rogue will be key to the equation, while the Juke aims to revitalize the company's fortunes in Europe. Meanwhile, the Xterra could be fully revealed by the 2027 model for the 2028 model year, and the same goes for the redesigned Skyline that could become the Infiniti Q50 successor by the time it reaches the U.S. Nonetheless, this new potential trim of the Kicks will play a small but vital role in Nissan's recovery plan. We could see more special trims and models down the line to keep interest up before the wave of new models comes in. Nissan/Linkedin View the full article

Legendary Ingenuity Race cars aren't often remembered unless they mean something special; usually, it's the team or the driver that holds the recognition, the car is but a mere tool to achieve the desired result. However, the very few iconic race cars tell a story that transcends the team and driver, where the car stands on its own. Mazda's 787 Le Mans racer is unique for two very good reasons: it was the first Japanese-manufactured car and brand to win the grueling 24-hour race, and, most importantly, the first rotary-powered (non-piston-engine) car to win as well. It bested the competition by showcasing Japanese traits of reliability and performance, finishing the race while its core competitors broke down. Keeping the Legend AliveAfter it won the race in 1991, the rules for Le Mans racing were changed. In other words, the rotary engine was banned from the competition, effectively cementing the 787's achievement as singular and unrepeatable. Since then, it has been in Mazda's Heritage collection, only taking to the track during special events like the Mazda Fan Festa, inspiring a whole new generation of racing fans. 8 What's amazing about the 787 4-rotor rotary is that it was unbreakable; the engine proved to be one of the most reliable race engines ever. After the race win, Mazda decided to prove to the world just how good the engine was by taking it apart in front of the media, and what it showed was that the internal components were still in good condition. The Mazda engineers claimed that the engine could run another 24-hour race. Mazda played the long game during the 1991 Le Mans race, detuning the engine from 900 to 700 hp and lowering the red line to keep tolerances in check throughout the race. A video has just been posted by Mazda Motorsports showing a dedicated team of engineers from the Heritage Collection continuing to keep the 787 in race-ready condition. Part of their job is to fully rebuild or refurbish the 4-rotor rotary. Doing this isn't easy, as they need to disassemble the entire motor and check all the "nuts and bolts" that make up the engine. Mazda Motorsports/YouTube View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article One of a KindBecause this engine was one of a kind and was technically raced only once, no parts are available. The 4-rotor engine was specific to the 787 Le Mans program, with just a finite number of parts made. Its uniqueness lends itself to a painstaking maintenance process, with more specific components than the standard rotaries. But the team behind the restoration and rebuild process says the main parts are still in good enough condition to use, while the replaceable parts are readily available. Mazda Motorsports/YouTube View the full article

Ford has officially mapped out the timeline for the overhaul of its most popular vehicles: the F-150 and F-Series Super Duty trucks. Said to arrive in 2029, the next-generation trucks represent far more than a cyclical product update. They will be the culmination of a significant internal restructuring aimed at optimizing Ford's manufacturing economics and pivot the automaker's powertrain strategy toward scalable, high-margin technologies. Ford Restructured OperationsAt the core of this transformation is the dissolution of the Model e division—a move that signals a strategic departure from isolated electric vehicle development. Ford has consolidated its operations into a unified "Product Creation and Industrialization" unit under COO Kumar Galhotra. This structural pivot aims to streamline capital expenditure and operational efficiency across the board. The mandate is fiercely ambitious: refresh 80 percent of Ford’s North American volume—and 70 percent of its global volume—by the end of the decade. This accelerated timeline relies heavily on structural integration and software-defined architectures. By 2030, Ford expects 90 percent of its global output to run on entirely new electrical backbones. This isn't merely a technological upgrade; it’s a prerequisite for scaling Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities, which inherently opens up lucrative post-purchase software revenue streams through an advanced BlueCruise ecosystem. About the TruckMechanically, the 2029 F-Series will target substantial cost reductions and performance gains through radical hardware simplification. Ford is actively exploring a complete transition to by-wire braking and steering technologies. Using rapid-discharge supercapacitors and electric actuators, this pivot would effectively eliminate traditional hydraulic setups. From a manufacturing standpoint, removing a physical steering column and mechanical linkages drastically reduces assembly complexity, yielding leaner production times while enhancing the full-size truck's operational agility under heavy payload. Ford Perhaps the most crucial economic pivot lies in Ford's recalibrated electrification strategy. The fully electric F-150 Lightning will be repositioned as an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV). The EREV architecture shifts the paradigm from pure battery dependency to a more pragmatic, dual-power system. The wheels are propelled entirely by electric motors, but a dedicated onboard combustion generator will be used to replenish the battery pack. Targeting an operational range exceeding 700 miles, the EREV mitigates the costly necessity of massive, resource-heavy battery packs while entirely negating consumer range anxiety—a primary barrier to heavy-duty EV adoption and towing. The Near FutureBefore these high-margin heavyweights launch, Ford will stress-test its new Universal EV platform with a mid-size electric pickup. This preliminary launch will pioneer a "unicasting" production methodology. By consolidating hundreds of stamped parts into single large castings, Ford aims to dramatically compress manufacturing costs. Ford With Chevrolet projecting a 2027 launch for its next-generation Silverado, Ford’s delayed 2029 release is a highly calculated risk. However, by leveraging unicasting, EREV pragmatism, and by-wire simplification, the Blue Oval is betting that an economically optimized, technologically superior product will secure the F-Series' formidable market dominance well into the next decade. View the full article

A Shortage of MechanicsLikely due to its aging population, Japan faces a shortage of new talent across various fields, and the automotive maintenance business is no exception. According to Kuruma News, the job-to-applicant ratio currently exceeds 5:1. The thing is, not everyone wants to be a mechanic, so the job isn't filled with people lining up at the gates. In an effort to curb the issue, Mazda has opened its technical school for those who want to get in on the craft. The center is called the Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe), and it's more than willing to accept applicants. Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe) The School Has a Cool PrincipalLike any school, there is a principal, and Mazda has chosen the original program lead of the MX-5 project as its headmaster. His name is Nobuhiro Yamamoto, and his CV is beyond impressive. One can even say he's the right person for the job. Yamamoto joined Mazda in 1973 and started out in the rotary engine and motorsports department. Later on, he became involved in vehicle development programs. Some of Yamamoto's highlights include the RX-7 and the second-generation MX-5. He was also the deputy program manager for the third-generation MX-5, and yes, he was also involved in the 787B program, you know, the car that won Le Mans. After serving the company for 50 years, Yamamoto had retired, but it seems that retirement isn't in his vocabulary as he takes on a new role. Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe) Curious About the Curriculum?Of course, there's going through the oily bits, but the courses are also a dream for any Mazda fan. For starters, there's Mazda Studies, which does a deep dive into the company's history and explains its core values. Lab work consists of practical exercises that involve fluid and force dynamics and mechanical structures. Oh, and there's even a subject called Rotary Engine Theory. As cars become more dependent on tech, there is also a workshop for electrical components and electronic control units. The students will work with actuators and circuit boards to gain real-world experience. Lastly, there is a simulated service area with real, working cars so that students can apply what they learned. Coolest school, ever? Maybe, but if you're into Mazdas, have a huge appreciation for anything mechanical, and love getting your hands dirty, it's the school for you. Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe) Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe) View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

No Fix RequiredTwo of General Motors’ most affordable vehicles, the Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer, may exhibit vibrations when parked facing downhill. However, the Michigan automaker says the condition is ‘normal’ and has instructed dealers not to take any further action. The condition is outlined in GM’s dealer service bulletin PIC6553B, as shared by GM Authority. The vibration stems from the engine mount snubber contacting the mount housing when the vehicles are parked facing downhill. For reference, the vehicles in question include 2024–2026 model-year Trax and 2021–2026 model-year Trailblazer units. Cole Attisha The Setup That Causes ItThe Trax and Trailblazer are sourced from South Korea, with the former continuing to sell well despite exposure to import tariffs. Both also use a turbo three-cylinder engine, which is inherently less balanced than a typical four-cylinder and generally produces more vibration. That may make the condition more noticeable in these vehicles, as some owners have pointed out. Still, GM argues that it is not a defect. The bulletin said the vibration can be reproduced when the vehicle is shifted into Park and the brake pedal is released. It may also become more noticeable when the air conditioning is switched on, likely because the engine is working harder to run the compressor. The bulletin provides a 0.2-hour labor operation to verify the condition, but says no further action should be taken if the dealer can duplicate it. This condition was initially addressed in 2024, but was recently updated to include later Trax and Trailblazer model years. Chevrolet Parking Habits MatterWhile it is debatable whether GM should issue a revision to eliminate the vibration, it is generally good practice to avoid shifting into Park without a parking brake whenever the vehicle is resting on a slope. Doing so places the load on the parking pawl, a small component inside the transmission that locks the drivetrain to prevent the vehicle from rolling. The ideal method is to keep a foot on the brake, engage the parking brake first, and then shift into Park. Some drivers shift into Park before applying the parking brake, but either way, anything is better than letting the transmission do all the work. For now, owners should expect to continue experiencing the vibration under those conditions. A separate case involves thudding sounds reported from the Trax’s three-cylinder engine, which GM said in a service bulletin is a normal characteristic and not an indication of a defect. Chase Bierenkoven View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Early ADAS When advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) features first became mainstream, many manufacturers jumped in and made these safety suites compulsory on most models. Some systems were more advanced than the others, but generally speaking, all performed as advertised and intended. One issue in the early days of ADAS is the learning curve that comes with the system, especially with features that take over. Collision Mitigation Braking became a big deal for Honda, with a lawsuit filed against them claiming some models suffered from "Phantom Braking." Honda ExoneratedReported by Car Complaints, Honda has been exonerated by a jury in the trial of this class action suit. The suit itself generally focused on the brand's ADAS system, called "Honda Sensing," but by the time it reached trial, it narrowed to the Collision Mitigation Braking system. The lawsuit also narrowed the list of affected cars to two models spanning three years: the 2017-2019 Honda CR-V and the 2018-2020 Honda Accord. Another thing to note is that the class action suit only covers certain states; other nationwide claims have been dismissed. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit claim that the Collision Mitigation Braking sometimes activates on its own, despite there being no objects in front of the vehicle; hence the "Phantom Braking" term. This can sometimes catch drivers and passengers by surprise, but Honda claims that the system is there to assist the drivers, but it isn't perfect. The brand goes on to say that a perfect system is not possible; in fact, they argue that just because the system has problems, it doesn't mean it's legally defective. Honda pleaded with the jury that, despite the system's imperfections, it should still be able to help drivers. Also, the owner's manual warns drivers about the numerous limitations of the automatic braking feature. At the Push of a ButtonIt was also brought up by Honda that one of the plaintiffs who sued them over a faulty Honda Sensing system sold the car to CarMax without disclosing that his Honda Accord had the issue, and that he was also suing Honda. Some owners in the suit claimed that this feature caused them to stop driving their cars altogether, even though the systems can actually be turned off at the push of a button. Honda issued a statement to Car Complaints: "American Honda is committed to the safety and satisfaction of our customers, and we applaud the jury’s decision. During the trial, clear evidence was presented that the allegations in this lawsuit did not reflect the common real-world performance of the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) in Honda vehicles, and this result is consistent with those facts." Honda View the full article

A Comeback That Actually MattersNissan is bringing back the Xterra, but this isn’t just about nostalgia. The new Xterra is part of a bigger shift in Nissan’s body-on-frame lineup. It will be built in the US and is meant to lead a new group of rugged vehicles, showing that Nissan is serious about this segment. There have already been a few teasers. The first showed a thin amber light bar across the front and a stamped NISSAN wordmark. Then Nissan Americas Chairman Christian Meunier shared a side profile that revealed a squared-off shape with real SUV proportions. That was enough for render artists to start filling in the gaps almost right away. From Teasers to RenderingsSome of the more convincing renderings, like those from Autoya, stick to what made the original Xterra work. The proportions are upright, with short overhangs and a stance that looks ready for actual off-road use rather than just tough. The front keeps the horizontal light bar from the teaser, along with a blunt fascia and squared grille. It looks modern but still has a mechanical, rugged feel, especially with the exposed tow hooks and thick lower cladding. From the side, the shape is clean and utilitarian. There are flat panels, defined wheel arches, and what appears to be a functional roof rack. Some renderings even show the stepped roofline from the original, but without forcing the retro look. The design feels straightforward and not overdone, which makes it more believable. Autoya/YouTube What to Expect When It Finally ArrivesBeyond the styling, the basics are already lining up. The new Xterra will use a new ladder-frame platform that will also support other upcoming models. That’s a clear move back to real truck-based engineering. Nissan plans to keep a V6 under the hood, which is a clear choice in a market full of smaller engines. A hybrid version is also coming, likely to boost torque and efficiency while keeping the SUV usable for towing and long trips. This approach should appeal to buyers who still need real capability. What isn’t clear, however, is whether manual transmission is still on the table. That’s something worth watching out for. There are signs of real off-road hardware, like good approach angles, roof gear, and maybe even a spare tire on the tailgate. Details are not confirmed yet, but the direction is obvious. The new Xterra is not coming soon. Nissan is aiming for a 2028 launch, which gives the company time to finish the rest of the lineup and fine-tune the platform. If the production model is close to these early renderings, the Xterra could be relevant again. Autoya/YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Mazda’s Volume Player Gets a BoostThe Mazda CX-5 is the brand’s best-selling model in the current lineup, though that isn’t as strongly felt in the U.S., where buyers continue to favor nameplates like the Ford F-150 and Toyota RAV4. For the 2026 model year, however, the Japanese marque introduced a long-awaited update to its compact crossover after nearly a decade, which may have helped it attract more shoppers. According to Consumer Reports, the CX-5 has been the most popular model among shoppers so far this year. It is reportedly the most researched vehicle in the publication’s rankings, which may not mean much on its own, but it could offer a preview of where sales may head in the coming months. After all, buyers who do not have as much time to research often default to what is popular, viewing it as a safer choice than a niche or newer nameplate. Mazda Evolving the CX-5 FormulaThe 2026 Mazda CX-5 has been redesigned, though the front end still features several similarities to the outgoing model. The changes to the rear end are more pronounced, especially with the slimmer taillights that make it look closer to the automaker's newer offerings, the CX-70 and CX-90. It is unclear exactly why shoppers are showing interest in the all-new CX-5, but Consumer Reports noted that models with high Overall Scores tend to earn its recommendation. Those scores are based on factors such as road-test performance and the availability of safety features, an area where Mazda has stood out this year. In fact, in a separate Safety Verdict assessment, Mazda ranked ahead of Volvo – a notable result given how long the Swedish automaker has dominated that space. Moreover, Mazda earned the most 2026 Top Safety Pick+ awards last month with eight, followed by Hyundai and Audi with six apiece. Not Without Its Trade-OffsSo far, one of the most common criticisms of the CX-5 has been its larger touchscreen, which Mazda argues helps deliver a better driving experience. The move away from physical controls has become a broader issue across the industry, with brands like Volkswagen already reversing course after drawing negative feedback. It is also worth noting that more technology can mean more points of failure, which could hurt long-term reliability. It is still too early to say how the new-generation model will hold up over time, but the latest popularity rankings suggest it has clear potential. The CX-5 is followed by the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Subaru Outback, Subaru Forester Hybrid, Honda CR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Honda Passport, with the Toyota Camry and Toyota Highlander rounding out the top 10. Mazda View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Manufacturing FaultWe’ve said this before, and it’s worth repeating: Not every recall is about a design flaw or bad engineering. Sometimes, the problem starts on the factory floor. That’s what’s happening here: Kia and Genesis – both part of Hyundai Motor Group – are recalling over 235,000 vehicles in the US because of a detail in how a part was installed. At first, it looks like a big problem affecting two brands. But look closer, and you’ll see it’s really about how the part was installed, not the part itself. The crossover fuel pipe, made by Usui International Korea, isn’t defective on its own. The real issue is how it was fastened during assembly. Kyle Edward What’s Actually Going WrongAccording to separate recall reports submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall centers on the crossover fuel pipe, specifically the fasteners that hold it in place within the engine. For Genesis, the recall affects the G90, G80, GV80, and GV70 – 94,760 vehicles in all, ranging from 2021 to 2026 model years. The root of the problem is that not enough torque stabilizer was applied during assembly. That small detail matters because it keeps the fasteners tight over time. Without it, the connection can loosen up, and that’s when leaks start. For Kia, 141,032 Carnival units are on the list, covering model years 2022 to 2026. The official explanation calls it a production deviation, but it boils down to the same thing: the fuel pipe nuts weren’t tightened consistently at the factory. Over time, that can mean a loose connection and a possible fuel leak. The first signs of trouble were reports of fuel smell, which kicked off a deeper investigation. Inspectors checked parts and dug through production records. For Genesis alone, there were over 100 reports, but so far, no crashes or injuries have been tied to the issue. A loose fuel pipe can leak gasoline, and if there’s heat or a spark nearby, the risk of an engine bay fire goes up. Drivers might notice a fuel smell or see warning lights before anything serious happens. Kia What Owners Should DoThe good news is the fix is simple. Owners will get a notice and need to visit a dealer. Technicians will check the crossover fuel pipe and its fasteners. If everything looks good, they’ll retighten the connections. If there’s a leak, the pipe gets replaced. As always, repairs are free, and both brands will reimburse anyone who has already paid for related work. As a precaution, owners should park outside and avoid driving if they smell fuel. Production lines have already been updated with new torque specs and stricter assembly checks, so newer vehicles shouldn’t have this problem. Genesis USA View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

UPDATE, Saturday, April 18, 2026, 9 AM MDT: The system delivered up to 6 inches across the Colorado foothills overnight, with Denver International Airport officially recording 3.5 inches, the city's first snowfall in more than a month. A hard freeze is now hitting the Front Range Saturday morning, with temperatures dropping into the 20s across Cheyenne, Denver, and Colorado Springs. -- Up to two feet of snow and temperatures plunging 25 degrees below the mid-April average are slamming 11 western and northern states today, Friday April 17, 2026, as a late-season "cold storm" presses from the Cascades and Northern Rockies into Colorado and the Northern Plains. The Weather Prediction Center is headlining late-season snow for the Northern Rockies, Central Rockies, and Northern Plains, with mountain passes from Washington and Oregon east through Idaho, Montana, Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado all in the impact zone through Friday night, plus snow and ice probabilities extending into North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. Peak danger window: Friday afternoon through Saturday morning across I-70, I-80, and I-25 in Colorado and Wyoming, where 70-degree highs Thursday will collapse into the 30s Friday and refreeze wet pavement after sunset. What to ExpectSnow totals: 1-2 feet across the Cascades and Northern Rockies; 8-16 inches cumulative across Utah and Colorado mountains; 4-8 inches in Yellowstone National ParkLower elevations: Light accumulations expected in Boise, Pocatello, Great Falls, Salt Lake City, Laramie, Cheyenne, and AspenTemperature crash: 40-degree drops in under 24 hours across eastern Wyoming and ColoradoWorst corridors: I-90 across Montana, I-84 through eastern Oregon and Idaho, I-80 across Wyoming, I-15 through Utah and Idaho, I-70 over the Colorado RockiesThe storm's heavy snow focus is shifting south and east through Friday, with Colorado terrain taking the brunt as the Utah and Wyoming snow tapers off. Snow squalls and convective bands hammered Utah and Wyoming overnight, and the WPC is flagging Day 1 snow probabilities of 10-20% for greater than 4 inches over central North Dakota, with ice probabilities of 10-30% for greater than 0.1 inches stretching from northeast North Dakota through northwest Minnesota. Per OpenSnow's multi-day breakdown, southwest Montana, northwest Wyoming, and northern Utah saw the heaviest accumulation Thursday, with Colorado now in the firing line through end of day Friday. Road ConditionsMountain passes in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and Colorado will see accumulating snow throughout the day, with rapid changes in surface conditions on bridges, overpasses, and shaded stretches. Even AWD and 4WD vehicles need winter-rated tires to stop on ice, which is the threat that builds across the impact zone after dark. Autoblog's AWD vs. 4WD breakdown covers what each system actually does and doesn't do in this kind of weather. Drivers should allow extra travel time, keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, and avoid travel altogether during peak accumulation windows if possible. US NWS Temperature Whiplash on the Front RangeCheyenne, Laramie, Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aspen are the textbook examples of why this event is dangerous well beyond the snowfall totals. A 40-degree temperature swing in 24 hours over wet pavement is the recipe for late-evening black ice on roads that looked perfectly drivable at lunch. If you're traveling I-25 between Cheyenne and Pueblo Friday afternoon or evening, or heading west on I-70 toward Vail and Glenwood Springs, plan to either be off the road by sunset or to slow your stopping calculations dramatically as temperatures cross freezing. Winter Driving TipsIf you are driving into the impact zone today, your tires are the single most important variable. AWD will help you accelerate on snow, but it does nothing to shorten stopping distance on ice, which is exactly the threat you'll face on I-80 in Wyoming or any pass along I-70 in Colorado as temperatures crash overnight. Autoblog's winter car readiness checklist recommends a minimum of 4/32 inches of tread depth for safe winter driving, and cold temperatures will drop tire pressure by roughly 1 to 2 PSI for every 10 degrees, so check your pressures before you leave a warm garage. Give yourself at least triple the stopping distance you would use on dry pavement, and double that again on ice. If today's storm is the reminder that your vehicle isn't set up for winter, Autoblog's full breakdown of the best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving is worth a read, and our best practices for driving in snow, ice, and rain guide covers everything from skid recovery to what to keep in your trunk for emergencies. The smartest call on a day like today, if your schedule allows, is to wait out the peak refreeze window entirely. TimingThe system is moving through the western U.S. today, Friday April 17, 2026, with Colorado snowfall winding down by Saturday morning as the storm exits east. The Cascades and Northern Rockies are tapering after their Thursday peak. However, the National Weather Service notes a new storm system arrives by Sunday, bringing additional rain and mountain snow to the West Coast, so this is not the last round. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article