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Tariff Reversal The United States Government will begin accepting tariff refund applications by April 20, 2026. The U.S. Supreme Court declared Donald Trump's tariffs illegal in February, effectively negating price hikes on imported goods. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency announced that it will start processing the first phase of the refund program. President Donald Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) resulted in the collection of about $170 billion in tariffs. Not only did consumers feel the burn of this act, but so too did businesses, as Automotive News reports: About 3,000 businesses filed lawsuits seeking refunds from the IEEPA. "Unconstitutional" Back in February, the U.S. Supreme Court effectively struck down President Donald Trump's import duties and taxes imposed under the IEEPA. The reversal was decided in February 2026. By that time, more than 53 million import entries that had those tariffs had already been affected. The numbers are piling up. With over 53 million products affected, and $170 billion for refunds in the first phase alone, this could be one of the biggest repayments in U.S. Government history. Several automakers, such as Volkswagen, reported massive losses and significant shifts in brand strategy going forward. Not only are foreign brands (also Korean brands like Hyundai and Kia), but also local brands like Buick, have noted a slide in sales, profitability, and the ability to simply sell cars at a competitive price. Of course, this is all on top of the gas crisis that all existing car owners are feeling right now. Hyundai The First Phase The Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) tool will be the vehicle with which the U.S. Customs and Border Protection will process applications for refunds. However, this tool will be limited to straightforward, recent import entries that were hit by the tariffs. More complicated cases will be handled on a later date. The Court of International Trade has ordered the government to refund about $170 billion plus interest, paid to roughly 330,000 importers. "Phase 1 is limited to certain unliquidated entries and certain entries within 80 days of liquidation," said the CBP in a statement on its website. For the refunds, applications will be limited to the official importer-of-record or their customs broker. The filers must already have an account with the CBP's Automated Commercial Environment, and importers must also have an enrolled back account in a separate ACE portal to receive the refund electronically. While businesses with "simple" cases can receive the refund this way, more complex cases may have to wait a bit. For more complex cases, the CBP will roll out additional functionality in its system. Procedures are expected to roll out as soon as they're ready. According to the report, more than 300,000 companies are believed to have paid IEEPA tariffs and are possibly eligible for refunds. Getty Refunds For Automakers and Suppliers According to another report from Automotive News, the U.S. Auto industry can begin seeking refunds through CBP's portal as well. Up to $20 billion in tariff payments were made to the U.S. Government. Because of the tariffs, automakers saw a steep rise in prices for new vehicles and parts. This has led to little to no profits and even losses for the industry, as well as higher prices for consumers. Due to the relationship between suppliers and OEMs, the refund process could be more complicated. It might be a while before prices stabilize all the way down the supply chain and to the consumer. While we won't see the immediate effect of this refund as consumers, at least it is on the way. As for the timeline of refunds, there is no set calendar for now, Trump did declare, in response to the Supreme Court's ruling, that refunds could "get litigated for the next two years." Getty Images View the full article

It's Really HappeningFor the longest time, Nissan kept mentioning the return of the Xterra. Since then, many renders of the SUV have been made, including from us, and we've been waiting for the day the company shows us at least a snippet or two. It finally happened during the global launch of the all-new Rogue and Juke. On screen was a small section of its front end, giving us the glimpse we've all been waiting for. Safe to say we haven't been this excited about a Nissan product for so long, and it's a simple, honest-to-goodness body-on-frame SUV. Nissan/Youtube But Wait, There's MoreAt the time of the announcement, Nissan showed just one part of the upcoming SUV. There were even more bits of the future Skyline/Q50 shown during the presentation that gave us a better idea of what the sport sedan might look like. Still, that one photo was more than enough to get everyone's attention. But for those wanting a few more views of the Xterra, we have Nissan Americas Chairman Christian Meunier to thank. Meunier posted a different teaser photo of the SUV on his LinkedIn profile, one that wasn't shown during the event and not yet posted on any of the company's press sites or social networking sites. The executive called it a "badass," and finally, we know its shape. Nissan Look Out, Bronco and 4Runner?Now, we tried to enhance the photo to see if we can pry more details out of it. Perhaps Nissan figured that many would try to do the same, and blacked out significant details of the revived Xterra. Oh well. Still, we see a boxy profile with straight and honest lines. It looks like it has good approach and departure angles, too, a must for off-roaders. Fingers crossed that's a chunky roof rack up there, and we're hoping the 'kick-up' roof makes a return here. Interestingly, the spare tire is mounted on the tailgate, which wasn't present in previous models. Christian Meunier/LinkedIn First of ManyNissan has committed to expanding its SUV/pickup range with a new ladder frame platform that will underpin more models. The Xterra will be the first of four models that will ride on this new chassis. The next-generation Frontier will ride on this frame, as well as the reportedly more off-road-oriented version of the future Pathfinder. There will also be an Infiniti version. For powertrains, it has been confirmed that Nissan won't take the downsized turbo-four route with the Xterra. Instead, it'll be a V6 that'll reside under its hood, though its displacement remains unknown. Of course, Nissan is aware that there are some folks out there who'd like an electrified version; hence, a V6 hybrid has also been touted. Nissan calls the Xterra "A Heartbeat model for the U.S, offering an adventurous spirit, body-on-frame strength and purpose-driven design." Given all the buzz and hype surrounding it, we're inclined to agree. As for the debut, it'll likely be sometime in 2027, and the SUV will be for the 2028 model year. Nissan View the full article

If you commute Victor to Jackson, haul freight through Togwotee, or planned a late-season ski trip to Grand Targhee this weekend, the next 48 hours are the problem. Everyone else has less to worry about than the warning text suggests. The National Weather Service in Riverton issued its Winter Storm Warning on April 15 for the Absaroka Mountains, the Teton and Gros Ventre Mountains and Yellowstone National Park, in effect from 6 PM Wednesday to 6 AM MDT Friday. NWS Billings has a parallel warning on Montana's Absaroka/Beartooth and Crazy Mountains from noon Wednesday through the same Friday cutoff. Snow totals above 8,000 feet could reach 20 inches across the Wyoming ranges, with 12 to 24 inches above 9,000 feet in the Absaroka/Beartooth. Gusts hit 30 to 50 mph, ridges touch 55. Three corridors matter: US-26/287 over Togwotee Pass, WY-22 over Teton Pass, and I-90 through western Montana. Chain law level 1 is close to guaranteed on the Wyoming passes by Wednesday night. Whether WYDOT escalates to level 2 depends on how hard the wind hits Thursday afternoon, and that call often comes with less than an hour's notice. The Stormthe Northern Rockies. It is the same system currently burying the Oregon and Washington Cascades under a Winter Storm Warning of their own, with NWS Portland forecasting up to 22 inches above 2,500 feet through Thursday morning. By Wednesday evening the system reaches Wyoming and Montana, and it slows as it climbs the spine of the Rockies. Snow keeps falling for roughly 36 hours. Snow levels stay above 6,500 feet through most of the event, so valley floors in Jackson, Dubois, Cody and Bozeman mostly see rain or light wet snow. The damage is concentrated at pass level, between 7,500 and 10,000 feet, where ridge-top winds push snow horizontally across exposed highway segments. The heaviest period runs from late Wednesday night through Thursday afternoon. Zone ForecastsThe headline numbers come from two NWS offices. NWS Riverton has 9 to 18 inches across the Absaroka, Teton/Gros Ventre and Yellowstone zones with up to 20 inches at the highest elevations, gusts 30 to 50 mph, and travel impacts specifically called out for Teton Pass and Togwotee Pass. NWS Billings is the heavier side: 12 to 24 inches in the Absaroka/Beartooth with the heaviest totals above 9,000 feet, the same range in the Crazy Mountains, and an explicit note about increased avalanche danger on both. I-90 sits outside the Warning zone but not outside the storm. NWS Missoula has a Winter Weather Advisory covering the interstate from Lookout Pass to Haugan with 6 to 12 inches forecast, and a separate advisory on Bozeman Pass with 2 to 6. Winter Storm Watches extend across the Gallatin and Madison County Mountains with 10 to 15 inches in higher terrain. NWS View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The HighwaysUS-26 and US-287 over Togwotee Pass (9,655 feet). The primary link between Dubois and the Jackson Hole valley, and the most direct route to Grand Teton National Park from eastern Wyoming. With 9 to 18 inches forecast at pass elevation and ridge winds to 55 mph, chain law level 1 should be considered a baseline. Togwotee has a long history of multi-day closures during blizzards. Expect chain requirements Wednesday night with possible closure Thursday. Check status at wyoroad.info. WY-22 over Teton Pass (8,431 feet). Some of the steepest grades of any highway in the continental US, between Wilson and the Idaho state line. The pass reopened on its permanent rebuilt alignment in late June 2025 after the June 2024 Big Fill landslide, and WYDOT has remained aggressive about closures during heavy snow events. The permanent road used lightweight foamed-glass aggregate fill designed to reduce the risk of recurrence, but the pass's steep grades and heavy storm exposure mean it shuts down readily when visibility drops. Expect chain law level 1 starting Wednesday evening and treat the pass as high risk through Friday morning. I-90 through western Montana, including Lookout Pass and Bozeman Pass. The interstate itself is not under a Winter Storm Warning, but advisories are in effect for the Lookout Pass segment (6 to 12 inches forecast) and for the Bozeman Pass area (2 to 6 inches). I-90 has a history of closures between Bozeman and Park City during mountain storms of this intensity, and MDT will likely impose chain requirements and single-lane operations in the worst stretches on Thursday. Live conditions at 511mt.net. I-90 and US-191 approaches to the Absaroka/Beartooth. Routes climbing south from I-90 into the warning zone, including access toward Red Lodge, Cooke City and the north entrance of Yellowstone, run straight into the heaviest accumulation area. Expect significant slowdowns and potential short closures on mountain approach segments. US-212 Beartooth Highway (10,947 feet). Seasonally closed and not a travel option this week. NWS Billings forecasts up to 24 inches of fresh snow at those elevations, which would make it impassable regardless of classification. When to DriveWednesday afternoon is the last clean window — snow levels are still above pass level through late afternoon, and anyone with business on the far side should move now. The storm hits at pass elevations Wednesday evening, and chain law level 1 likely starts on both Wyoming passes by late that night. Thursday is the worst of it: wind gusts peak on exposed ridges, visibility drops toward zero in bursts, and this is when WYDOT closures are most likely on WY-22 and US-26/287. MDT may close I-90 segments between Bozeman and Livingston during the Thursday afternoon peak. Snow eases Thursday night into Friday morning as the system pulls east, but lingering chain requirements and single-lane operations are likely through sunrise. Both warnings expire at 6 AM MDT Friday. Photo by groveb on Getty Images Why This Storm Lands Harder Than the Numbers Suggest A 24-inch spring dump across the Northern Rockies is not itself unusual. What makes this one different is the timing, and the timing is the story. Montana snowpack hit record-low levels across a third of long-standing monitoring sites this month, with some lower-elevation stations completely melted out by April 1. Bridger Bowl closed three weeks ahead of schedule after a mid-March warm spell. Livingston is running its warmest year-to-date since records began in 1948. That is the context this storm drops into: dry soil, early-melting snowpack, a ski season already closed out in several places. 24 inches of fresh snow above 9,000 feet will not reverse that pattern — it reshuffles where the problems land, not whether there are problems. Avalanche risk climbs sharply in terrain that had settled into late-season conditions, and snow dropping onto saturated soil at lower elevations after Friday's warm-up is the kind of combination that produced the Teton Pass Big Fill landslide in June 2024. The second thing worth flagging is the parallel event in the Pacific Northwest. The same Gulf of Alaska trough feeding 10 to 22 inches onto the Oregon and Washington Cascades is what drives this storm. Both regions are under simultaneous Winter Storm Warnings, which is not coincidence — it is the same continental-scale moisture plume clipping both mountain systems. View the full article

Crème de la crème It's not often that some of the most exclusive and beautiful cars ever made are in the same place. Even rarer is when all of them are on display in that same venue, where enthusiasts and aficionados congregate to admire them. Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este is often considered the most exclusive and prestigious gathering of cars in the world. Starting in 1929 as a showcase for coachbuilt cars, it ended in 1949 and returned in 1995. For 2026, the list of cars is sure to include the very best from the automotive classic car catalog, but it also includes some modern classics, such as this: the Pagani Zonda 760 Unica Roadster Broad Arrow Hagerty View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article One-Off PaganiHeadlining this year's list of cars slated for the auction part of the show is a 2018 Pagani Zonda 760 Unica Roadster. Zondas are already rare cars, but an Unica model coming from the brand's in-house bespoke Unico division is even rarer. This particular Zonda is a one-off commission and is based on the 760 series, which represents the ultimate evolution of the Zonda model. It was made for the founder of Top Car Design Spain, and was driven by Horacio Pagani himself. The 760 Unica Roadster features the engine and aerodynamics of the Zonda R. It produces 760 hp from the legendary 7.3-liter AMG-derived V12 and is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Pagani is known for its use of carbon fiber, and this car is finished in a special blue with gold accents. Something this rare isn't often driven, so the 1,626-mile odometer reading is no surprise. No estimates for the auction price are available, but something this rare will definitely be expensive; it might even break sales records for Zondas sold at auction. Broad Arrow Hagerty View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The OthersAn event as big as this doesn't limit its auction choices, and the curated list for the 2026 edition is quite the lineup. Also joining the Zonda on the auction block are a 2023 Ferrari 812 Competizione, a 2022 Ferrari SF90, a 2022 Lamborghini Countach, and a Lamborghini Murciélago LP640-4 Coupe. That list alone (apart from the SF90) could sell for upwards of $1 million. The auction is set to take place on May 16-17 at Villa Erba. This year's event will be co-presented by BMW, which is celebrating unique milestones: 90 years of the 328, 60 years of the 02 model, 50 years of the 6 series, and 40 years of the M3. Broad Arrow Hagerty View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Keeping the Legacy IntactTesla fan or not, it is hard to deny that the Model S and Model X helped shape today’s EV landscape. Now, Tesla is giving them a proper send-off with a limited-run Signature Edition and is trying to make sure they stay in the hands of enthusiasts through a “No Resale Agreement” clause. Shared by Not A Tesla App, the agreement enforces several serious penalties for those who might consider reselling their Signature Edition unit within the first year of ownership, including a fine of $50,000 or the value received from the sale or transfer, whichever is greater. It could even lead to the automaker refusing to sell violators any of its future vehicles. Tesla The Final TouchesFor context, Tesla is producing just 350 Signature Edition examples, 250 of which are based on the Model S, with the remaining 100 based on the Model X. The exclusive features are limited to cosmetics, most notably Garnet Red paint and gold accents on the logo and badges, as well as on the Model S brake calipers. They are built on the Plaid versions, which are equipped with three electric motors producing 1,020 horsepower. Tesla allows owners to resell their allocation, though they must prove the reason for the sale is valid. It can be sold back to the automaker or to a third party, but “only after receiving written consent from Tesla.” It is also worth noting that the Signature Edition models – start at around $159,000 – come with the Luxe Package, which includes certain non-transferable perks, including lifetime Full Self-Driving (Supervised), free Supercharging, and Premium Connectivity. Sawyer Merritt/X Clearing the Way ForwardReports say deliveries of the final limited-edition Model S and Model X examples will begin in May 2026. The two nameplates are being discontinued to free up space at the automaker’s Fremont plant in California, which will then be used to produce its Optimus humanoid robots. Given that the Model 3 and Model Y sell far better than the outgoing models, their retirement is not expected to significantly affect the company’s EV sales. But before that happens, Tesla is planning a formal celebration in May to mark the end of Model S and Model X production, spanning 14 years for the former and 11 for the latter – dating back to a time when most mainstream EVs today, like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, had not even been planned. Sawyer Merritt/X View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Key Model in BMW’s EV PushSince its introduction, the i4 has been doing a lot of heavy lifting for the BMW EV portfolio. Alongside the iX1, the i4 has been contributing greatly to the company’s electric sales, not just in the U.S but around the world. In Germany, nearly half of the 4 Series models sold there are battery-powered, and it’s the best-selling BMW EV in the U.S. In many ways, the i4 is a crucial model for BMW, and it’s one that deserves a successor down the line. In M50 and M60 forms, it even became the world’s best-selling M product until the arrival of the X3 M50. With that, the G26 is soon headed for retirement after four production years as the new wave of Neue Klasse models comes in. Winding Down ProductionAccording to BMW Blog, production of the G26 i4 will be winding down by either late 2026 or early 2027. It’s mainly to make way for the new and upcoming EV models that BMW will produce, and as the current model doesn’t have any of the Neue Klasse attributes, it won’t be long for this world. In the meantime, it’s the i3 that will inherit the i4’s role as BMW’s electric sport sedan. The range-topping M50 had already been revealed, but we’re also expecting a ‘40’ model down the line to make the range more accessible. It’ll likely follow the same playbook that BMW had applied to the i4, one that proved hugely successful for the brand. BMW/Fabian Kirchbauer Photography Fear Not, There Will Be a New 4 SeriesInevitably, some will prefer the sleeker profile of the 4 Series to the more formal 3 Series. Rest assured, an all-new generation will be released soon, as BMW has said the model will always have a place in its lineup. That said, we haven’t seen any spy shots of the car just yet, so it’s possible that it’ll still be a few years away. Given the success of the 4 Series and i4, it sounds obvious and inevitable. But do note that BMW recently said that some of its halo models are taking a back seat to prioritize its core models. There was also mention of rationalization, meaning some models won’t see successors. Still, we can say with a degree of certainty that both fuel-fed and electric versions of the 4 Series are safe from getting permanently axed. Fabian Kirchbauer Photography A Landmark Model4 to 5 years is a short run in terms of BMW model life cycles. The company typically takes 7 years to roll out an all-new generation. Still, the i4’s run has made a significant impact on the brand, and it’s worth looking back at its capabilities. Having tested it in the past, this writer can say that the i4 was (and still is) a hugely competent and capable sporty EV. While it doesn’t have astronomical range, it still feels like a BMW behind the wheel and pleasingly normal, too. Dare we say it’s a car that deserves to be mentioned as one of the brand’s greatest hits as it proved that BMW can incorporate its DNA in EV models. BMW View the full article

After a suspicious automotive spending spree that included a BMW i8, a Chevrolet Corvette, and a fleet of SUVs, a Miami woman is now facing multiple felony charges. On the surface, it looked like another case of big-money indulgence in a city known for its extravagant car scene and annoying drivers. But authorities claim the entire collection was built on fraudulent financing. 10 Vehicles in Just 8 Days Mercedes-Benz According to 7 News Miami, 38-year-old Dunia Sierra purchased 10 vehicles in October 2023 in just over a week. The garage covered nearly every category. Among the standout purchases were a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, a 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560, and a 2019 BMW i8. She also added more practical SUVs, including a 2023 Toyota Highlander, 2024 Kia Telluride, 2024 Hyundai Palisade, and 2022 Mazda CX-9. To round things off, she bought three Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Altogether, the total value is estimated to sit close to half a million dollars. Her Abnormally Large Salary The crux of the problem is how the vehicles were financed. Authorities allege the woman falsely claimed to be a restaurant general manager earning over $180,000 per month. In reality, she reportedly worked as a waitress and cashier. According to Indeed, the average waitress in Miami Lakes earns around $3,000 per month, excluding tips – quite the inflated income figure. As a result, the inflated income figure allowed her to secure multiple vehicle loans in rapid succession before lenders could detect the accumulating debt on her credit profile. Charges of Fraud and Grand Theft BMW The case is now being handled by Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Organized Crimes Bureau Auto Crimes Task Force, with the waitress facing multiple felony charges, including organised fraud, vehicle-related fraud, and grand theft. Authorities also suspect the involvement of a wider network, potentially including dealership insiders and brokers. The garage may have looked impressive on paper, but it has come at a far higher cost than any monthly repayment. Sierra was cuffed on the 9th of April 2026 and jailed under a $26,000 bond. View the full article

From Stormer to SportThe Range Rover Sport was a bit of a surprise when it was first revealed in 2005 for the 2026 model year. It was the first model extension of the Range Rover family, and was actually a bit of a gamble for Land Rover at the time. Well, it's safe to say that it paid off, as the Range Rover, er, range is as wide as ever. But it all began with the Range Stormer Concept from 2004. It was actually Land Rover's first-ever concept vehicle, and its positive reception eventually led to the creation of the Range Rover Sport. While it lost the butterfly doors and gained two extra seats, the final look remained faithful to the Stormer. Land Rover Paying TributeOne can say that the Range Rover Sport owes much of its success to the concept from over 20 years ago. The SUV proved hugely successful, with over 400,000 sold from 2005 to 2013. The second-generation model brought the name to new heights, and by 2021, the SUV had achieved one million sales with the two generations combined. So, for the 20th anniversary of the SUV (technically, 21), Land Rover has released a new model that pays homage to the concept that birthed the Range Rover Sport. Simply dubbed the TWENTY (yes, in all-caps), it commemorates the SUV's first full production year by drawing cues from the Range Stormer and the first-generation model. Land Rover A Familiar ColorFor those old enough to remember, the Range Stormer was finished in a very distinct shade of orange. The eventual production version was introduced in Vesuvius Orange and practically served as its flagship color. With that, the TWENTY can be specified with an identical color, this time called Sanguinello Orange. But that's not the only nod from the past. Before two-tone wheels became commonplace, the Range Rover Sport rode on single-tone alloys with a split five-spoke design. The modern TWENTY version follows that form, this time with 23-inchers from the options catalog instead of the original version's 20-inch wheels. Land Rover Other HighlightsThe special model also features an interior with SV touches, including deeper bucket seats, a black suede headliner, and carbon trim. For powertrains, there's a choice between P530 with its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 523 hp or P550e plug-in hybrid that pairs battery power to a 3.0-liter turbo inline-six making 543 hp. If, for some reason, you don't want the color that literally defined the original Range Rover Sport, there are other colors to choose from, namely Santorini Black and Ostuni White. As for U.S. availability, it hasn't been mentioned yet, but the special model will be offered worldwide. The facelifted model is also coming soon. Land Rover Land Rover View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Toyota, as it stands, is arguably the world’s most valuable carmaker. In order to get to that position and have stayed there for as long as it has, Toyota has made better decisions than most other manufacturers. Toyota’s EV strategy is no different. After allowing the market to develop over the years through its teething troubles, while taking a hands-off approach to EVs, Toyota accepted criticism as onlookers claimed that they were missing the EV wave. The Big PictureFast forward to the present, at a time when automakers are scaling back their EV ambitions in the wake of a severe decline in EV sales caused by federal tax-credit subsidies being withdrawn, the Toyota bZ is now the best-selling non-Tesla EV in America. Toyota USA Toyota is about to blitz the market with an onslaught of new EV launches aimed at capitalizing on the changing EV landscape while the market weeds out the weak. So how did Toyota, after being so late to the party, not only make an impact but also deliver exactly what the mass market for EVs demanded? Measure Twice, Cut OnceToyota, having cornered the hybrid market as its hedge against foregoing the early EV market, used its hybrid success as the foundation on which to build its EV strategy; after a rather tepid introduction to the market with the bZ4X in 2024, Toyota received feedback from industry researchers, journalists, and its customers. They then distilled this feedback to come to a conclusion of what truly mattered to EV buyers. What they learned is that customers do not want a revolution in their driveway; they want a vehicle that works, that is practical, and that does not break the bank while meeting all their needs. As such, Toyota concluded that the core variables that define EV demand are range, reliability, ease-of-use, and in-car technology. Toyota USA Toyota also learned that by simply watching the market crumble, year after year, as countries rolled back EV subsidies, the market shrank. Noticing the trend, where EV demand was guided by pricing and value, Toyota realized that buyers simply wanted a car that was cheap to run, could haul the family and groceries, and was well equipped; very little else mattered as long as the pricing made sense. An economic explanation would be the fact that cars around the $50,000 mark - which is the only segment of EVs significantly contributing to market share - display demand that is highly price-elastic. This means that demand reacts very sensitively to changes in pricing, and as EV subsidies are being taken away, this pricing shock means these cars offer a less compelling value proposition to buyers. Sticking to Its RootsIf you think about it, Toyota has very rarely created cars that do more than exactly what they are designed to do - the vanilla ice-cream of the automotive world, if you will. Sure, it may not be as exciting as a chocolate chip V8 Mustang, but a vanilla GR86 is fun, practical, efficient, and will last longer at lower maintenance costs; variables that hold weight when it comes to influencing buyers Toyota USA This same approach was applied to the bZ4X, and now, in 2026, can be attributed to the success of Toyota's new electric crossover, the bZ. With range being bumped up to 314 miles, approximately 25 percent more than the bZ4X, the incorporation of Tesla’s NACS for all 2026 models, which effectively doubles the charger network compatibility across America, and a revised interior and exterior design to address ease-of-use complaints from customers of the bZ4X. Toyota has paused, listened to the market, and answered the prayers of EV buyers who just want a car that works, not one that is reinventing the wheel with spaceship looks, a yoke for a steering wheel, and a button that makes the car fly at Mach 3 while cooking you a hot dog. What's Next From Toyota?With Toyota’s onslaught of new EVs, from the compact C-HR EV which targets urban buyers looking for a familiar experience while also wanting to transition to EV ownership, to its recently revealed 2027 Highlander EV offering electric power with three-row family SUV practicality, as well as the bZ and bZ Woodland - Toyota is looking to increase EV market share by offering a range of products, each of different sizes and capabilities, to its diverse consumer base. Toyota USA Having all but single-handedly grown America’s hybrid vehicle market, and owning almost all of the market share, Toyota waited, watched, and when the time was right with the market settling into its post-subsidy state which took out a significant chunk of the competition, with some automakers even reporting up to 60 percent declines in year-on-year EV sales - Toyota took a step back before delivering exactly what the market demanded. Toyota waited, watched, and delivered exactly what today’s EV buyers are asking for. View the full article

Keeping Heritage AliveThere are some automotive brands that have managed to stay alive and somewhat relevant over the years despite remaining small operations. Lotus has had an interesting automotive story, born out of Colin Chapman's desire to build true light sports cars using technology from F1. It has had its ups and downs over the years, but people have always believed in the brand, and it remains recognizable today. In fact, the brand is celebrating a major milestone this year, 77 years since its founding. A local dealer in Japan is using this as an opportunity to offer a one-of-a-kind experience for potential customers. Lotus Cars Immersive ExperienceStarting April 19 up to May 31 2026, Hakko LR an authorized dealer of Lotus is offering a 1-night/2-day premium test drive experience. This offer is valid for people who want to experience modern Lotus products, namely the Eletre, Emeya, and Emira. It will only be offered to three groups of people, for the three models available. Japanese publication S. Response reports that the cost of this package is 770,000 Yen ($4,900 at the current exchange rate), including taxes and service charges. Part of the package is that the full amount is deductible from the vehicle's price if you purchase after the experience, essentially making it a buyer's freebie. The drive itself will take participants from Osaka to Kyoto, where they will stay at the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto Hotel, located on the banks of the Kamo River. The room itself will have a spectacular view facing the river, and for dinner guests can choose between the La Locanda italian resturant or Mizuki a Japanese restaurant that serves four distinct types of cuisine. Both dinner packages will offer wine pairings and a special bespoke dessert featuring the Lotus logo. Lotus Unique TasteThis type of exclusive offer is not surprising for a market like Japan. Considering that Japanese car nuts are among the most particular customers, not to mention that they have unique tastes. Despite the smaller scale of Lotus globally, in car crazy markets like Japan, seeing a Lotus on the road is normal, as smaller niche brands continue to have dedicated followers there. Kyle Edward View the full article

Uses Less Fuel than a MotorcycleGeely now holds a Guinness World Record for thermal efficiency, with its new i-HEV system rated at 48.4%, according to a report from Car News China. That figure represents how much energy from fuel is actually converted into usable power, and at nearly 50%, it places Geely at the very top tier of mass-production internal combustion engineering. Alongside that, the system delivers a claimed 106 mpg under combined conditions, reinforcing just how tightly optimized the entire hybrid setup is. The gains come from a purpose-built hybrid engine, paired with AI-driven energy management and a high-output 230 kW electric drive. But more importantly, this is part of a deliberate strategy. Geely is choosing to refine HEV technology rather than lean fully into PHEVs or EVs, recognizing that smaller 1–2 kWh batteries mean less weight, lower costs, and reduced reliance on raw materials, all while maintaining exceptional efficiency and strong urban drivability. Geely Geely Expands i-HEV Across Core ModelsGeely is set to roll out its new i-HEV system across key high-volume models, including the Geely Preface, Geely Monjaro, Emgrand, and Boyue. The expansion is scheduled for 2026, signaling a broader push to integrate hybrid technology across its mainstream passenger car lineup rather than limiting it to niche variants. Underpinning this rollout is a flexible architecture supporting multiple hybrid-dedicated engines – 1.5L, 1.5TD, and 2.0TD – paired with an integrated 11-in-1 electric drive unit. In real-world figures, the Preface i-HEV is rated at 59 mpg, while the Monjaro i-HEV delivers 50 mpg, reinforcing Geely’s focus on scalable, high-efficiency performance across segments. Autoblog / Leroy Marion Perfect Middle Ground?While Geely pushes new benchmarks, Toyota has long doubled down on hybrids, and the industry may be catching up to that thinking. The Corolla Cross is expected to move toward an all-hybrid lineup by 2028, mirroring the success of the RAV4’s hybrid-heavy mix. It’s a strategy focused on proven efficiency and scalable deployment, rather than going all-in on full electrification. That approach is becoming more relevant as market realities shift. Chinese EV makers are rapidly expanding globally, increasing pressure across segments, while EV demand in some regions is softening. Automakers are beginning to recalibrate, with companies like BMW reportedly scaling back certain EV plans amid slowing sales. Companies such as Geely are recognizing that EV adoption remains uneven, making hybrids the most practical middle ground. Geely The LowdownMore automakers are now expanding their hybrid portfolios, recognizing that HEVs offer a compelling balance of efficiency, affordability, and real-world usability. Plug-in hybrids still promise flexibility, but they also introduce added complexity, effectively combining two powertrains into one, which can mean higher costs and more potential issues over time. Sometimes, the most effective solution is also the most proven. Toyota has spent decades refining hybrid systems into a benchmark for reliability and efficiency, and Geely’s latest achievement only strengthens that case. A near-50% thermal efficiency engine and triple-digit mpg figure highlight how hybrid technology continues to evolve, while remaining one of the most practical paths to mass-market efficiency gains. Geely View the full article

Although many drivers are hit with the odd speeding fine, one Audi Q5 driver in Washington D.C. racked up an extraordinary number of outstanding tickets, valued in excess of $260,000—worth far more than the value of the used Audi. The reckless run of this driver finally came to an end this past week when the D.C. Police Department impounded the vehicle. Although the department shared the news as a win for the rule of the law, one wonders why it took so long to impound a vehicle that was involved in close to 900 violations. The Country’s Most Hazardous Audi DC Police Department/X According to a report by WCNC, the driver of this Q5 racked up 29 fines over the last two months alone. The vehicle, which was towed in D.C. but wears Maryland plates, was reportedly caught speeding at between 11 and 20 miles over the speed limit in the last two months. It’s not known if the 893 outstanding violations are all related to speeding. In Washington D.C., you can be fined up to $200 for exceeding the speed limit by 20 mph. “Repeated disregard of traffic law is unacceptable,” said the police department. “We'll continue to track down scofflaw vehicles to keep DC roadways safe.” Yesterday, MPD's Traffic Enforcement Unit and our partners at @DCDPW impounded a vehicle with 893 outstanding tickets, totaling over $260,000 in fines! Repeated disregard of traffic law is unacceptable. We'll continue to track down scofflaw vehicles to keep DC roadways safe. pic.twitter.com/ugrxMPtJto — DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) April 9, 2026 The case coincides with an increase in crackdowns on drivers with high numbers of unpaid fines in the country’s capital. Drivers with unpaid tickets from out of state are also being targeted. This follows a 2024 law that gave the city greater power to penalize repeat offenders across state lines. In one instance, a driver was ordered to cough up over $77,000 in unpaid fines. In 2025, the first full year when the law went into effect, authorities witnessed a drop in traffic fatalities of 52%. Related: These Are the States with the Fastest Highways D.C. Doubles Down on Cameras Denny Muller/Unsplash According to Washingtonian, D.C. has significantly increased the number of cameras over the last few years. There were just over 100 of them in 2020, rising to 477 in 2024 and 546 currently. That 2026 total is made up of 212 speeding cameras, with the remaining number being red-light and stop-sign cameras and some truck-restriction cameras. There are also over 200 Metrobuses with cameras to catch drivers who block bus lanes. “It seemed like nothing was working, and then all of a sudden we added more traffic cameras and it’s easier than people thought it would be to reduce traffic deaths,” says Ankit Jain, DC’s shadow senator. “I think we’re going in the right direction.” Joshua Hoehne/Unsplash The abundance of cameras in D.C. isn’t reflected in all other states, though. In Texas, for instance, red-light cameras have been banned. One reason was that these cameras caused many drivers to brake hard when the light changed, increasing the number of rear-end collisions. While many motorists dislike D.C.’s cameras, the figures suggest they’re doing their job of reducing fatalities. The authorities now need to find a way to clamp down on repeat offenders more quickly, as nobody should be able to rack up unpaid fines of over $260,000 before their vehicle gets impounded. Related: These New Speed Cameras Still Catch You Even If You Slow Down View the full article

EV Fire is BrutalThere’s a longstanding concern around electric vehicles catching fire, and a recent incident at a BYD facility in China underscores those worries. According to CarNewsChina, BYD’s Pingshan facility in Shenzhen experienced a fire on Tuesday, with dense smoke seen rising from a multi-level parking structure. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident. BYD clarified that the parking area contained only “test and scrapped vehicles,” meaning no customer cars were affected, and that production continued without disruption. Despite the fire, authorities and the Chinese automaker sought to ease public concerns over EV safety, maintaining that the incident was isolated. What Early Reports SayPreliminary investigations, as reported by China Daily, indicate the fire was caused by improper external construction operations, suggesting that building work or welding may have sparked the blaze, rather than the EV batteries themselves. Electric cars are known to experience a phenomenon called thermal runaway, in which high-voltage batteries can overheat to the point that individual cells catch fire. It can occur even when an EV is not in use, as seen with the Volkswagen ID.4, which was recalled in the U.S. earlier this year and owners were advised to park outside to reduce the risk of a fire spreading to a home or nearby structure. If an EV catches fire, it can be more difficult to extinguish because it can trigger a chain reaction in neighboring cells. In a 2022 incident involving a Tesla Model S, the Sacramento Metro Fire District even submerged the vehicle in water to help contain the fire. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog No Need to PanicGiven that improper external construction operations are believed to be the root cause, this incident should not raise significant concerns among BYD owners or prospective buyers. While Chinese automakers remain largely restricted in the U.S., North American neighbors Mexico and Canada have taken different approaches, with the latter allowing an initial quota of up to 49,000 Chinese EVs per year at a lower tariff under a new arrangement. The incident comes as BYD continues to expand its ultra-fast charging infrastructure, known as Flash Charging. It supports charging rates of up to 1,500 kW, enough to take an EV from 10 to 97 percent in as little as nine minutes. The company aims to grow the network to 20,000 Flash Charging stations by year-end, up from around 5,000 currently. Hauke-Christian Dittrich/picture alliance via Getty Images View the full article

The first-ever Audi RS Q5 has been spied for the first time as Ingolstadt prepares an answer to the remarkably popular BMW X3 M, and Audi may give it a more restrained look than its other RS high-performance products. At first glance, it appears as if we're looking at just another SQ5, the current most potent Q5 variant, but a closer look reveals that this is a test mule for something more exciting, with wider arches attached to the fenders being one of the biggest clues. Audi painted these the same blue as the rest of the prototype to try to hide the crossover's identity, but zoom in, and the rivets show that the hottest Q5 will get a wider track to help put monstrous power to the asphalt. First Audi RS Q5 Expected to Adopt RS 5 Powertrain SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Our spies report that the first-ever RS Q5 will use the same 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 and electric motor as the latest RS 5, in which total output is rated at 630 horsepower and 608 lb-ft of torque. While an eight-speed automatic is likely, we don't yet know whether it'll be the hybridized transaxle of the RS 5, particularly since that could impact cargo volume, especially with the hybrid battery already taking up space. Thus, it's also unclear if the RS Q5 will have figures quite as high as the RS 5, but given that the current BMW X3 M Competition makes 503 hp and a new, more powerful version with Neue Klasse influence is undoubtedly on the way, it would not be a surprise to see Audi throw the kitchen sink at its first serious high-performance crossover since the now-discontinued five-cylinder RS Q3. Whatever the case, yellow decals on the glass confirm that this will have hybrid power of some sort. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article It'll likely be quite some time before we have answers because this is an early prototype in an SQ5 body, and after initial development is complete, Audi will begin testing mules with bodywork more like the final product. These will likely have large, more central exhaust tips and much more aggressive bumpers. We can also expect a sportier roof spoiler, and since this test car has those additions to its wheel arches, it seems likely that Audi will mold new bodywork with vented front fenders and muscular rear haunches that flow from bulbous rear doors. If these predictions are accurate, the first RS Q5 certainly won't be a sleeper. Multiple Screens Expected Inside RS Q5, Drift Mode Possible SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Our spies weren't close enough to see inside, but like the latest SQ5, the RS model will have an 11.9-inch digital cluster, or Audi Virtual Cockpit, with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment display, both featuring unique RS graphics and readouts. What we're most keen to see is if the RS Q5 gets a drift mode like the RS 5. The current BMW X3 M wasn't launched with one, though its all-wheel-drive system favors the rear axle. BMW has surely taken note of the numerous aftermarket tuners who have coded the system to allow for a rear-drive-only setting that smokes the rear tires with ease, and it's entirely possible that this will become commonplace in future hot crossovers. Sure, a tall center of gravity makes such a move seem unsafe, but given how heavy modern cars are and how much weight is concentrated down low in hybrids, it's not a major concern. We'll keep our ears to the ground and report back once more info becomes available. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Full Self-Driving has finally landed in Europe. On April 10, the Dutch vehicle authority RDW granted Tesla type approval for FSD Supervised, marking the first full EU-wide regulatory clearance and opening the door to a broader rollout this summer. It should have been a victory lap moment for Tesla owners who had been waiting. For many of them, it turned into something else entirely. The approval only applies to vehicles running Tesla's newer AI4 computer. Cars equipped with the older HW3 hardware, also known as FSD Computer 3.0, are excluded from the launch. Thousands of European Tesla owners paid for Full Self-Driving years before any of this hardware distinction existed. Some paid as far back as 2018 or 2019, watching the price climb and the promises pile up, trusting that Tesla would eventually deliver. Now FSD is finally here in Europe, and their cars are not invited. Tesla owes me €6.800. And if you're a HW3 + FSD owner, they owe you too. 2019. One of the first Model 3 owners in the Netherlands. Paid for Full Self-Driving. The promise: same hardware, software updates will unlock full autonomy. Just wait. I waited 7 years. SEVEN years!… pic.twitter.com/zpFW8MUdWp — Mischa Sigtermans (@mischamartijn) April 14, 2026 The Claims Site, and What This Could MeanOne Dutch Model 3 owner named Mischa Sigtermans has had enough. He paid €6,400 (approximately $7,500) for FSD back in 2019 and recently launched a collective claim website specifically aimed at bundling EU Tesla owners on HW3 hardware who want either a negotiated resolution or, failing that, a legal one. Today, Tesla no longer offers FSD as a one-time purchase at all, only as a $99 monthly subscription. European buyers who pre-ordered at configuration paid between €5,300 and €7,500 ($6,300-$8,800), depending on timing, for a feature that, as of this week, they still cannot access. Elon Musk himself acknowledged on Tesla's Q4 2024 earnings call that roughly 4 million vehicles shipped with HW3, and hundreds of thousands of those owners have paid for FSD already. Tesla Tesla's Own Words May Be Its Biggest ProblemThe legal risk for Tesla is that the paper trail is extensive, and a lot of it came from Tesla itself. Musk admitted that the company would need to replace all HW3 computers in cars where FSD had been purchased, calling the situation "painful and difficult". HW3 runs a significantly reduced model compared to AI4, with workarounds to emulate operations that the older chip cannot run natively. Tesla has floated a "v14 Lite" version for HW3, but its own US patent filing acknowledges the workaround can render the system inoperable. As of now, there is still no hardware retrofit program or refund policy. The claims website is in its early stages, but momentum is building fast. What began as one frustrated Dutch owner posting on social media has quickly started to look like the opening move of something much larger, with nearly 1,400 verified participants already. If Tesla does not move to resolve this voluntarily, Europe's courts may eventually do it for them. View the full article

Stellantis’ North American subsidiary FCA US is recalling over 65,000 trucks from the Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500 and 5500 lines over a software error that may cause the digital instrument panel to freeze. The recall covers a total of 65,348 trucks built between August 09, 2024 and July 4, 2025, including certain 2025-2026 Ram 1500 Pickup, Ram 2500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Pickup, Ram 3500 Cab Chassis, Ram 4500 Cab Chassis and Ram 5500 Cab Chassis vehicles. Just 1% of the recalled vehicles are estimated to have the defect. The 3.5-inch Digital Cluster May Become InoperativeDue to the instrument panel problem, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards numbers 102, "Transmission Shift Position Sequence," 105, "Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems," 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment," 126, "Electronic Stability Control Systems for Light Vehicles," 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems," 138, "Tire Pressure Monitoring System," and/or 208, "Occupant Crash Protection.” According to the safety call report, “failure to display certain information, such as the Brake, ESC, and TPMS system warning lights and gear selection indicator, may cause a driver to operate a vehicle in a compromised condition, which can increase the risk of a crash without prior warning.” Stellantis The culprit is a 3.5-inch Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) manufactured by Marelli North America that equips all of the above vehicles and which can become inoperative at startup and/or while driving because of a software issue. As a remedy, dealers will update the instrument panel software, free of charge. Owners will start receiving notification letters from May 28, but if they don’t want to wait until then, they can find out if their vehicle is involved in the recall by searching their Vehicle Identification Number (VINs) on NHTSA.gov beginning April 16, 2026. Ram Recalled 72,000 Trucks in December for a Similar Issue RAM Interestingly, this is not the first time Ram is recalling 2025-2026 trucks due to a software glitch of the instrument panel display. In December 2025, the company recalled 72,000 pickups and chassis cab models for a software error that could cause the IPC display to go blank. Mind you, that recall was for models featuring the larger 12-inch IPC. The display in question was also supplied by Marelli North America. It’s also worth noting that several other automakers, including Ford, GM, Toyota and Volkswagen Group have each issued recalls last year for software errors or internal component failures that have led to blank instrument clusters. The digital displays involved in the recalls were all sourced from different Tier 1 suppliers, WardsAuto reported. View the full article

Airbags have saved thousands of lives over the last few decades, but these safety devices can also result in injuries if they deploy incorrectly or at the wrong time. That’s the issue facing over 440,000 Honda Odyssey minivans, which have just been recalled. According to newly published information on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website, some Odyssey models have airbags that could deploy unexpectedly. The problem has already resulted in 25 reports of an injury, so here’s everything you need to know. Honda Odyssey Airbag Recall Honda As far back as November 2017, Honda was notified of an incident and began an investigation. In July 2021, it was determined that under certain conditions, such as when driving over debris or when the undercarriage is impacted, the second- and third-row airbag deployment thresholds could be reached, mistakenly leading to airbag deployment. Usually, these events should not trigger an airbag deployment. The recall notice also states that potholes and speed bumps could trigger side airbag deployment. In October 2021, Honda determined that there were no safety concerns, but alarm bells went off again in October 2025 when the automaker received a Preliminary Evaluation request from the NHTSA. This finally led to the decision to conduct a recall on April 2, 2026, almost a decade after the first incident was reported. It’s unclear why it took this long for a recall to be actioned. The number of affected Odyssey minivans is 440,830, and these fall between the 2018 and 2022 model years. Along with 25 injury reports, there have been 130 warranty claims. What Owners Should Do Now Honda Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by May 25, 2026. If necessary, dealers will reprogram the supplemental restraint system (SRS) electronic control unit or replace it entirely, free of charge. Before then, owners may contact Honda’s customer care service at 1-888-234-2138 for more information, using the “UNW” recall number. Starting April 16, 2026, owners of relevant Odyssey minivans can use their vehicle identification numbers via the NHTSA’s website to find out if their vehicle is involved in the recall. No other precautions have been announced by the automaker, but until your vehicle can be checked, it’s worth taking care not to drive too aggressively over rough surfaces or speed bumps. Where possible, passengers can also be seated in the front row, where airbag deployment is unaffected. The center rear seat is likely a safer place to be, too, should one of the rear side airbags suddenly deploy. Related: Older Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler Models Under ‘Do Not Drive’ Warning Over Takata Airbags Not The Odyssey's First Rear Safety Issue Honda This latest recall follows a recent safety test from the IIHS, which states that minivans lack adequate protection for rear-seat passengers. Of all tested minivans, the 2026 Odyssey received the worst score in the moderate overlap test. In this specific test, the IIHS found an especially high risk of head/neck injuries for rear-seat passengers, resulting in a Poor rating. Chest injuries were also likelier than ideal, resulting in a Marginal rating. This test result is unrelated to the airbag deployment issue, but does indicate that Honda has some work to do to make its otherwise competent minivan safer. View the full article

Digital ShowroomShopping for and buying a new vehicle is something people take very seriously; what used to take a whole day or more has been condensed into a much easier experience in the digital space. While physical brick-and-mortar showrooms still exist, more people, since the growth of e-commerce, have turned to the digital space to help inform their buying decisions more. The biggest e-commerce platform, Amazon, saw an opportunity to utilize its expertise by launching Amazon Autos in 2024. Now the company is looking to expand the platform's capabilities and offerings. Hyundai The More The MerrierAmazon Autos began with Hyundai as its first brand partner. The platform just announced that Amazon Autos has secured a group of new brands to onboard, including Kia, Mazda, Subaru, Chevrolet, and Jeep. Primarily, the platform serves as a way for car buyers to browse local dealers' inventories, complete financing paperwork, and generally reduce the time spent in the showroom. It's the dealers who pay Amazon to have themselves listed on the platform. This helps them amplify their selling and marketing activities online, but most importantly, buyers can reduce the complicated car-buying process in the comfort of their own homes before heading to the dealership. Even with this optimistic approach to online car buying, dealers claim adoption is slow, mainly due to logistical issues with financing, compliance, and delivery coordination. Some steps still require in-person transactions, and that is what's limiting a fully digital car shopping experience. Courtesy of ID 206401340 | Amazon Package © Kit1nyc | Dreamstime.com Not a ReplacementAmazon Autos does say, though, that the platform isn't there to replace physical dealerships; it merely helps buyers and gives them multiple options throughout their customer journey. While some still prefer to buy a car in person, the continued growth of younger, more digitally savvy car buyers is a key segment for the platform moving forward. For reference, it is estimated that around 1.5-2 million cars were bought online last year, representing a growing but small share of total sales, at 3%. Currently, this service and platform are offered in 130 U.S. cities, with key markets such as Los Angeles and New York. Amazon Autos also offers used cars, and is different from Amazon Automotive, the parts and accessories selling side of the business. Photo by SOPA Images on Getty Images View the full article

A Name That Carries WeightThe Jensen Interceptor stands out for a certain era in British motoring. When it launched in the 1960s, it mixed Italian design with American V8 power, making a name for itself as a fast, comfortable GT. Production stopped in the 1970s, and while the brand tried to come back a few times – like with the S-V8 in the early 2000s – none of those efforts really stuck. Even so, the Interceptor name never really went away. Jensen International Automotive kept it alive with restored and updated versions for collectors who wanted the classic shape but with modern reliability. Earlier this year, Jensen confirmed it was building an all-new Interceptor – not a restomod, but a car designed from scratch. Now it has a name: the Jensen Interceptor GTX. Jensen International Automotive Clean-Sheet, Old-School PhilosophyJensen says the Interceptor GTX is their first real clean-sheet car, built from the ground up instead of reusing an old platform. The initial teaser image shows a blue coupe with a full-width LED taillight (sigh), complete with an illuminated Jensen badge in the middle. Underneath, it uses a lightweight aluminum chassis and a hand-built aluminum body. Power comes from a custom V8, with no hybrid or electric tech in sight. The goal is simple: a pure, analog driving experience. Of note, Jeff Qvale, whose father once owned Jensen Motors, is now a key partner on the project. He brings experience in car distribution and building limited-run models, which ties the new car to Jensen’s history and today’s luxury market. Jensen is pitching the GTX as a hand-built, ultra-high-performance car for buyers who want something special. That means low production numbers and a price that will almost certainly be deep into six figures, though they haven’t shared exact numbers yet. Zac Palmer What Happens NextThe Interceptor GTX will debut globally in the second quarter of 2026, first as a pre-production prototype. That means it’s not quite ready for showrooms, but it’s far enough along to show what Jensen has in mind. Jensen International is also timing the reveal to mark about 60 years since the first Interceptor was launched. It’s a nod to the car’s heritage, but they want this new model to stand on its own. Of note, we don’t have details yet on production numbers, pricing, or when deliveries will start, but since it’s hand-built, expect a slow, custom process. We’ll keep watching for updates as always. For now, the Interceptor GTX looks promising, especially if you’re ready for something different from the usual electric crowd. View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Chinese Automakers Could “Put Us All Out of Business”Ford CEO Jim Farley isn’t mincing words. In an interview with Bloomberg, the FoMoCo head honcho has doubled down on his stance that Chinese automakers pose an existential threat to the U.S. auto industry, warning that allowing them into the market could be “devastating” for domestic manufacturing. Farley argues that the scale, speed, and state-backed nature of China’s automotive sector create an uneven playing field that American brands simply aren’t equipped to match under current conditions. This echoes earlier remarks in which Farley suggested that Chinese brands could “put us all out of business,” citing their vertically integrated supply chains, aggressive pricing, and rapid EV development cycles. Companies like BYD have already demonstrated an ability to dominate emerging markets, leveraging government support to undercut rivals. BYD Canada Opens the Door While Rivals Scramble to AdaptWhile the U.S. maintains steep tariffs to keep Chinese EVs out, Canada is preparing to welcome its first wave of Chinese automakers, something Farley openly worries could create a backdoor into the American market. Brands like BYD are already gaining traction globally, and with Canada set to import tens of thousands of vehicles annually, the North American landscape could change quickly. Farley’s concern is that, once these vehicles establish a foothold nearby, containment becomes significantly harder. Beyond market share, there’s also the issue of data and security. Modern EVs are effectively rolling data centers, and Farley has raised red flags about the volume of information they can collect. This has already prompted some automakers to strip Chinese-developed software from their systems to comply with tightening regulations. Meanwhile, legacy giants like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are taking a different route: studying Chinese competitors closely, adapting to their strategies, and accelerating their own EV and software development to stay competitive. Geely Price Wars, Policy Gaps, and a Reality CheckThe broader EV slowdown in the U.S. adds another layer to this debate. With federal tax credits becoming less consistent, affordability has once again become a primary concern for buyers. Surveys suggest many Americans would seriously consider cheaper Chinese EVs if they were available, especially as inflation continues to pressure household budgets. That demand-side reality complicates the protectionist stance, as consumers increasingly prioritize value over brand origin. That said, the idea of ultra-cheap Chinese EVs flooding the U.S. may not fully materialize. Vehicles that are inexpensive in China often arrive at significantly higher price points overseas due to tariffs, logistics, and compliance costs, as seen with BYD models in Europe. So while Farley fears a price war, the bigger disruption may come from quality, technology, and features. If Chinese automakers continue to excel in those areas, they’ll force American brands to raise their game, whether they like it or not. LEROY MARION View the full article

A Big Price Drop That Doesn’t Really Change MuchHonda made headlines in April by chopping $7,500 off the 2026 Prologue’s MSRP, dropping the base price from $47,400 to $39,900 before destination charges. It sounds like a big deal at first glance. However, an analysis of dealer incentive bulletins by CarsDirect shows that the price cut doesn’t actually translate into better real-world deals. Whether you’re paying cash, financing, or leasing, the savings largely cancel out due to reduced incentives. So while the Prologue looks cheaper on paper, your monthly payments or total outlay probably won’t budge. Honda Buying One? The Math Doesn’t Favor YouIf you’re paying cash or financing, the price cut doesn’t do much for you. Honda used to offer up to $8,000 in dealer cash. Now, after the MSRP drop, that’s down to just $500. The lower sticker just swaps places with the old incentive instead of stacking on top. Financing isn’t much better. The Prologue’s 0.99% APR for 60 months is okay, but in today’s EV market, rivals are offering more aggressive deals. As cited by the publication, the 2026 Toyota bZ lineup is already being pushed with 0% financing for up to 72 months plus bonus cash. Meanwhile, the 2026 Subaru Solterra comes with similar 0% financing and up to $6,000 in incentives, dropping its effective price much lower. Line up the numbers, and the Prologue’s new price doesn’t really move it ahead. It’s still stuck in the same spot as before. Honda Leasing Tells a Different Story, But Not a Better OneLeasing tells a similar story. Even with the $7,500 MSRP drop, lease prices barely budge. The Prologue EX AWD still leases nationally for $309 a month over 36 months with $4,599 due at signing, because Honda slashed lease cash from $8,000 to just $500. Honda bumped the residual value from 45% to 53%, which helps keep monthly payments steady even as incentives disappear. The end result? The lease deal looks almost exactly like it did before. On the upside, there is a $2,000 conquest incentive, so some buyers can get the monthly payment down to about $249, with an effective cost closer to $377. That keeps the Prologue in the small group of EV SUVs near the $300-a-month range. Bottom line: the price cut doesn’t actually make the Prologue more affordable. It just moves numbers around, leaving buyers and lessees right where they started. Honda View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The arrival of any new Porsche 911 is a big deal, as was the case this week when the GT3 S/C (Sport Cabriolet) was unveiled. This stunning 911 pairs the regular GT3’s 502-horsepower 4.0-liter flat-six engine with the freedom of open-air motoring, and it also arrives with a slew of extras from the 911 S/T to save weight. At $273,000, it’s not cheap, but that base price is only the beginning. Now that the configurator is live, we specified the most expensive 911 GT3 S/C we could, with well over $100,000 in optional extras sending the price skyrocketing. Related: Porsche Reveals First Convertible 911 GT3 With a 9,000 RPM Engine and 911 S/T Tech The Most Expensive 911 GT3 S/C Options 2027 Porsche 911 GT3 S/C Porsche View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Like other Porsches, the GT3 S/C is highly customizable. From extensive packages to the smallest details, you can create a truly unique sports car. Going through each and every option we added would be exhaustive, so here are the main ones with the most eye-popping price tags: Paint to Sample Plus: $48,240Street Style Package: $34,19020/21-inch GT3 winter wheel-and-tire set painted in satin-gloss black: $11,560Exterior Package in Carbon Fiber: $4,800Front axle lift system: $3,890Front protection film: $2,760Chrono Package with Porsche Design GT Clock: $2,300 2027 Porsche 911 GT3 S/C Porsche View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Paint to Sample Plus has the most extraordinary price tag, but allows you to submit almost any color sample and have your Porsche finished in that shade. There’s more value to be had in the Street Style Package, which adds special decals, forged magnesium lightweight wheels, HD-Matrix Design LED headlights, adaptive sports seats, and a lot more. Choosing this package prevents you from selecting several other customization options. Smaller upgrades like lightweight carbon fiber wiper arms ($1,340), rear compartment trim in leather ($1,140), and sport tailpipes in Titanium ($1,140) were also added. In the end, we managed to add $106,340 in optional equipment and $12,212 in accessories. The final price, including the delivery fee of $2,350, worked out to a staggering $393,902. Porsche Related: The 10 Most Expensive Porsche 911 Options in the U.S. A Special Car—Even With Zero Extras Porsche While few 911 GT3 S/C customers will end up spending almost $400,000 on one, you don’t need to add a single extra to an already impressive machine to enjoy it. Producing 502 hp and 331 lb-ft of torque, this convertible shoots from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.7 seconds. The engine’s ability to rev to 9,000 rpm is accompanied by an addictive noise, made all the more visceral when the roof is down. Even better is the fact that it comes with a six-speed manual gearbox. While most convertibles come with a substantial weight penalty, the GT3 S/C is only 266 lbs heavier than the hard-top S/T and 203 lbs lighter than a 911 Carrera Cabriolet. Extensive use of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic for various body panels and magnesium for the roof contribute to the low mass. The Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake system saves another 44 lbs. Expected to arrive at U.S. dealers in the fall, the 2027 Porsche 911 GT3 S/C instantly becomes one of the most desirable drop-tops in the world—whether or not you load it up with options. Related: Porsche Just Built a One-Off 911 GT3 Inspired by the Amazon Rainforest View the full article

Ford just recalled over 422,000 trucks and SUVs for a windshield wiper arm defect that can cause the arm to stop working or detach entirely while driving in the rain. The affected vehicles — F-250s, F-350s, Expeditions, and Lincoln Navigators built between October 2021 and December 2022 — share a manufacturing flaw in the wiper arm assembly. Latch retention plates were incorrectly staked during production, weakening over time until wiper arms strip, fail, or come off completely. But where it gets complicated is that Ford did not issue this recall because their safety team caught a problem. They issued it because the federal government forced them to look. Under a 2024 Consent Order with NHTSA, Ford was required to conduct a mandatory three-year lookback of its safety data. That review turned up elevated warranty claims on the exact same wiper arm failure on vehicles built just after a previous 2022 recall that addressed the same issue. Ford had logged over 1,500 warranty reports tied to this defect. Without that federal mandate, there is no indication this recall would have happened at all. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Timeline Tells a StoryFord fixed the supplier-level manufacturing process in December 2022. They knew the failure mode because a prior 2022 recall had already addressed stripped wiper arm splines on Expedition and Navigator vehicles. The warranty data pointing to vehicles just outside that recall window was sitting there. Ford has logged 1,538 warranty reports tied to this defect. And yet it took a federally mandated lookback, three years later, to prompt action. Owners have been describing erratic wipers on their Super Dutys going back well before 2026, with dealers either unable to replicate the issue or chalking it up to normal wear. Ford Why Mechanics Couldn't Catch This EarlierHere's where it gets worse for everyday owners. Wiper arm inspection on these vehicles isn't something your independent mechanic can flag against a known Ford service bulletin without access to OEM diagnostic systems. The investigation, the parts traceability, the failure reproduction - all of that lives inside Ford's proprietary service infrastructure. Independent shops saw the symptoms. They couldn't connect them to a root cause Ford hadn't officially acknowledged. Ford is still developing the full inspection process as of the recall submission date, meaning the remedy timeline remains open-ended. Owners can check their VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. But if your Super Duty wipers have felt off for a while, you were probably right. View the full article

When the Road Doesn’t WaitWe’ve all been there: stuck in highway traffic, nowhere to stop, and suddenly nature calls – sometimes not just for a quick pit stop. Now, a Chinese automaker thinks it has found a fix, though it’s definitely not your usual car feature. Chinese automaker Seres, the company behind Aito vehicles, has officially been granted a utility model patent for what it calls an “in-vehicle toilet and vehicle.” The patent, carrying authorization number CN224104011U, was filed on April 22, 2025, and approved on April 10, 2026. It remains active, according to Sanyan Tech. At first glance, it sounds like one of those ideas that never leaves the drawing board. But digging into the patent, it’s clear the engineers put real thought into making it work – even if it still feels a little out there. China's IPO A Drawer-Style Solution Under Your SeatAccording to the patent, the system consists of a compact toilet unit paired with a sliding rail assembly. The rail is mounted to connect with the seat structure, allowing the toilet to slide out when needed and tuck neatly back underneath afterward. Picture a drawer built right into the cabin floor. When you don’t need it, it disappears, so the cabin stays just as roomy and comfortable as before. That’s the clever bit: turning unused space into something functional, especially in EVs where every inch counts. This actually matters more than you’d think. While in-vehicle toilets aren’t unheard of, especially in RVs, it’s a different story for passenger vehicles, let alone EVs. Most electric vehicles have battery packs hogging underfloor space, leaving engineers little room to add extra features. Seres’ solution tries to sidestep that problem without sacrificing seats or storage. China's IPO A Whole New Level of AwkwardEven if the engineering holds up, this is where things start to get tricky. How do you run drainage in a cramped chassis? Where does the wastewater go? Can the sliding mechanism survive years of use, and will it really keep all the smells locked away? These are tough problems, especially in EVs, where packaging is constrained by batteries under the floor. Then there’s the human factor, since it’s quite different from portable toilets we’ve seen before. Using a toilet inside a car – especially a silent EV – brings a whole new level of awkward. There’s the noise, the smell, and just the idea of turning your car into a bathroom with other people around. Even with all the seals and deodorizers in the world, getting past that mental hurdle might be the toughest challenge of all. Like most patents, there’s no promise this will ever make it to showrooms. Maybe it ends up as a niche option for long-haul trips or specific use (e.g. PWD use). For now, it’s parked somewhere between clever innovation and an idea most people likely aren’t ready to try. Aito View the full article

Toyota has an excellent reputation for reliability, but not always, and three Lexus products under recall are evidence that even the Japanese automaker's luxury products can sometimes fail. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 14 products across three models and eight model years have issues with their fuel delivery systems, with low-pressure in-tank fuel pumps that may fail. Altogether, Toyota says 9,139 vehicles are potentially saddled with the issue, and because it's a hardware problem, customers will need to visit their local dealers to have it rectified. Let's take a closer look at which cars are under recall. Three Lexus Vehicles Recalled Lexus According to the NHTSA recall report, 856 examples of the 2022 Lexus IS, produced between May 17, 2021, and February 15, 2022, have the fuel pump issue. The 2015-2022 Lexus RC coupe is also named in the recall, naming 5,879 examples produced between June 10, 2014, and February 11, 2022. Finally, the Lexus GS is also impacted, with 2016-2020 model years made between July 14, 2015, and July 29, 2020, named. 2,404 examples of the midsize luxury sedan are impacted. So what's the exact problem? Toyota says the recalled vehicles' fuel pumps have impellers made of a certain resin that may swell, thus interfering with surrounding components and eventually causing the pump to stop delivering fuel, particularly if the fuel reaches high temperatures. If this happens, the car may fail to start or suddenly lose fuel pressure while driving, causing the engine to stall and thereby increasing the risk of a crash. The problem is expected to cause a check engine light, so even if owners don't notice stuttering from the engine, the cluster will tell them that there's a problem. If your vehicle is one of those named in the recall, it's best not to wait for this CEL to appear, as an engine starved of fuel can develop other problems. This issue may sound familiar, as a recall in 2020 for failing fuel pumps impacted over 6 million vehicles globally. Lexus Customers Must Wait Several Weeks for a Fix Lexus View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Unfortunately, while the recall will be taken care of with a no-cost fuel pump assembly replacement, and while dealers have already been notified of the recall in preparation for a fix, Toyota only expects to be ready to inform owners of the problem next month or even in June; the planned remedy owner notification date is May 25-June 8, 2026. Of course, if your car is already showing symptoms and you decide to get it repaired before you receive a recall notice, Toyota will reimburse you for the associated costs. However, the recall documents do not indicate that applicable VINs are yet searchable, so it's tough to be proactive in this case. View the full article