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A Possible Game ChangerOver the years, the Volkswagen Auto Group has established a couple of joint ventures and collaborations with young automakers. There are Bugatti and Rimac, for instance, and, bringing things back down to earth, Rivian and Volkswagen. It's interesting to see where it goes, but it's great to see these forward-thinking companies injecting new ideas within the VW Group. The Rivian and VW collab could be a potential game-changer for VW Group. The joint venture was established in late 2024 under the name RV Tech. It aims to integrate Rivian's know-how on building EV architectures, as well as developing on-board software to further advance technologies. Rivian Progress Has Been MadeSince the signing, RV Tech has been moving forward in development. Earlier this year, prototypes of the new technologies completed winter testing as part of extreme weather testing. The results of the test were not made public, but it's a strong indication that the joint venture will bear fruit eventually. VW Group of America CEO Kjell Gruner had expressed confidence in the partnership, adding that it's the kind of technology that the group needs. Speaking to the press, Automotive News quoted the executive saying, "That’s not just software, it’s also hardware. You need the compute architecture and the software playing together." Interestingly, this technology partnership may go beyond EVs. It was also reported that the collaboration might include ICE models, possibly hybrid vehicles. If so, Volkswagen's hybrids and plug-in hybrids have the potential to be even more efficient in fuel and energy consumption. Volkswagen The Cars that Will Get itSo far, the VW Group has confirmed that the co-developed technologies will be applied to future Volkswagen EV models, as well as yet-to-be-named Audi and Scout models down the line. Our guess? One of them could be the upcoming A2, and Scout could add a smaller, more affordable off-roader down the line. The I.D Every1 will be the first car to benefit from RV Tech, and that model will be released in 2027, possibly for the 2028 model year. However, the U.S. market might have to wait a little longer to get Rivian tech in its VW Group models. The I.D Every1 will not be sold stateside, as subcompact vehicles that aren't crossovers don't really sell in that part of the world. There's also slim margins for the I.D Every1's segment, so it's not worth the effort on VW North America's part. Audi View the full article

Ford reported first-quarter U.S. vehicle sales a few days ago, and across all body styles in the manufacturer’s lineup, trucks saw the steepest year-on-year decline at 11.3%. This was primarily due to the big-selling F-Series, which saw sales drop by 16%, but the Maverick and heavy trucks also dropped in sales. The Ford Ranger was the outlier, though, and one particular variant of this pickup defied the automaker’s overall decline in truck sales to start 2026. It also happens to be one of the most affordable Ford pickups you can buy. Ford Ranger XL Sales Are Booming 2026 Ford Ranger XL Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Overall sales of the Ford Ranger hit 17,775 units in the first quarter of 2026, up by 19.2% and making it the only Ford pickup to increase year-on-year sales. What jumps out most are sales of the entry-level Ranger XL, which increased by 45.5% over this period. For months now, Ford has seen an increase in demand for cheaper base trims, and the Ranger XL is one of them. The midsize Ranger XL starts at $33,350 for the 4x2 model, which is less than you’ll pay for a compact Maverick Lobo or Lariat. It’s also around $6,000 cheaper than the most affordable full-size F-150, and choosing the Ranger generally means lower gas bills than for the F-150. Combined Q1 sales of the base Maverick, Ranger, and Bronco Sport were up by 8.4%, so it’s not only the Ranger’s base trim that’s seen increased demand. At the other end of the Ranger lineup, the high-performance Ranger Raptor saw Q1 sales increase by 36.1%. Ford did not break down exactly how many units per trim were sold—the lineup includes the mid-range XLT and Lariat variants. Related: Ford Seeing Huge Demand for Cheap Base Trims Is The Ranger XL A Good Deal? Ford For less than some Mavericks, the midsize Ranger offers better capability. Its standard 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo EcoBoost engine produces 270 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, with a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 pounds. With this engine, the payload is 1,767 lbs in 4x2 guise. The XL is identifiable by its 17-inch black-painted steel wheels, but this is the only obvious sign that it’s a base model and it’s still a handsome pickup truck. If the look is a bit too utilitarian for you, 17-inch alloys are available for an additional $295. The XL also comes with a 10-inch center display, an eight-inch cluster display, manual single-zone air conditioning, a six-speaker sound system, and LED reflector headlights. The black vinyl flooring and Ebony fabric upholstery should be easy to keep clean, too. In 4x4 guise, the XL can be upgraded with the FX4 Off-Road Package, which includes an electronic-locking rear differential, a steel bash plate, and off-road tuned shocks. The Ranger XL undercuts the cheapest Toyota Tacoma Double Cab by a few hundred dollars, and it’s more powerful than that model, too. Final Thoughts Ford In Europe and many other markets, the Ford Ranger has been a strong seller for the brand. That’s not the case in the United States, where the Toyota Tacoma has dominated the midsize category, and most Ford fans here prefer the larger F-150. But, as vehicle affordability becomes more of a concern, we could see more full-size truck fans switching to midsize models. The Ranger XL is a non-nonsense pickup with enough capability for most, and its recent surge in sales is proof of that. View the full article

Seriously? From convenient to annoying, monthly subscription services have risen beyond their convenience and straight into annoyance. What started as paywalls to unlock features already available on owned vehicles – as was the case with BMW and its pay-to-heat-the-seat debacle – and also more advanced paywalls, like Tesla's full self-driving function. While the latter makes sense because it costs money to run data centers, hire people to run them, and pay developers to improve the system, among many other things, hiding basic functions and features behind paywalls is generally questioned in the industry. Now, we have yet another pay-to-do-something story, and this time, Honda has come under fire thanks to a customer and his new Honda Passport. Honda A Passport to Your Garage The story came from a Reddituser who complained online. Prior to this, his Honda had a small button on the mirror to open his garage door. With the old system, all you had to do was push a button, and you're good to go home. After getting into an accident and getting a new car out of the deal, this Reddit user found himself in a new 2026 Honda Passport. "They moved the garage door opener from a button on the mirror to a paywall subscription service," he wrote. What was once a simple button is now a whole app ecosystem. Thanks to Hondalink and MyQ, that feature is now a subscription-based system that's locked behind your phone and a paywall. Honda But You Get More FeaturesHondalink is a suite of connectivity features that allows your phone to track, monitor, and interact with your vehicle through your smartphone. The deeper you go in this subscription rabbit hole, the more features you get to unlock. The complimentary features will allow you to receive notifications about your vehicle's status, while more advanced subscription tiers will let you access "Remote" features that track your car's location, among many other things. On top of those features, Honda also offers a "Security" subscription package and a "Concierge" package. The good news is that you might not have to subscribe to Hondalink's more advanced tiers. The integration in question is MyQ, a garage door opener app that runs on a subscription. Now, the bad news is that the app requires you to install a MyQ receiver in your garage door and connect that to your home router to get started. After that, you need to make sure that your infotainment is connected to your phone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. From there, it's $129 for a three-year subscription plan, or $179 for a five-year subscription plan with MyQ, which is $3.58 per month for the three-year plan or $2.98 per month for the five-year plan. So what do you get out of your about-three-dollars-a-month payment? Well, you can open and close your garage door from anywhere as long as you are connected. You may also schedule when your garage door will open or close, and set it to open for any guests or visitors you may have if you're not home. Oh, but if you subscribe now, you get a complimentary 30-day trial. Nice. Honda A Complex Solution For a Simple Task Homelink was the go-to standard for many Honda owners when it came to opening their garage doors. It seems that Honda is getting cozy with MyQ instead of installing that Homelink-capable mirror in their vehicle cabins. Once upon a time, Homelink-capable mirrors came standard on many trim levels of previous-generation Honda vehicles; now it's a solution that you have to buy separately. Customers who want to retrofit the Homelink mirror will also have to pay up, since Honda charges about $170 for the part. Furthermore, if you want to migrate from Homelink to MyQ, and your garage door opener is incompatible with MyQ, you'll have to buy a new receiver and subscribe to the app. My solution here is to just ditch all these subscriptions entirely. Personally, our family's garage door isn't connected via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or anything. The only "subscription" that we have – if you can even call it that – is some batteries. Traditional remotes won't be as clean or as flashy as the in-car buttons and remotes, but they get the job done, and that's good enough. Do we really want a future where everything, including your kitchen sink, is locked behind a paywall? Back then it was heated seats, now it's a garage door, what's next? Reduced horsepower and performance if you're not subscribed? The inability to drive your car unless you're paying ten bucks a month after you've fully paid off the vehicle? Honda View the full article

A Small Win Amid a Huge InvestigationTesla remains under scrutiny from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), particularly over its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system and a series of crashes tied to its behavior in real-world conditions. That wider probe is still ongoing, with regulators digging into how the system performs in complex environments. Amid all this, Tesla gets a small break. The NHTSA has officially closed its separate investigation into Actually Smart Summon – the feature that lets you move your car remotely with your phone. That probe had been running since early 2025. This doesn’t mean Tesla is in the clear, but it does take one item off the long list of questions regulators have about its driver-assist tech. It also shows that not every feature gets the same level of attention – some draw more heat than others. Tesla What Triggered the ProbeThe investigation, labeled PE24033, was opened in January 2025 after reports of low-speed crashes during Actually Smart Summon use. According to the NHTSA’s findings, the feature is classified as an SAE Level 2 system and is primarily intended for use in parking lots or private property. At the center of the probe were incidents where vehicles made contact with nearby objects while being remotely operated. These weren’t high-speed collisions. Instead, they typically involved parking gates, bollards, or adjacent vehicles. In total, regulators reviewed 159 reported incidents, including 97 classified as crashes. Notably, none involved injuries or fatalities. The reports kept circling back to a few common problems. Sometimes, users just couldn’t see enough through the app to judge what was around the car. Other times, things like snow covering the cameras made it harder for the system to spot obstacles. There were also moments when the system didn’t react well to moving objects, like gate arms. In a few cases, drivers didn’t step in quickly enough, even though the app showed something was in the way. Tesla Why the Case Was ClosedNHTSA closed the case after Tesla pushed out several over-the-air updates that tackled the main problems. The updates made the system better at spotting blocked cameras, recognizing objects, and handling things like gates. Regulators pointed out that, compared to how often Actually Smart Summon gets used, the number of incidents was low – a fraction of 1% out of millions of Summon sessions – and most were just minor scrapes. No one got hurt, and there were no cases involving pedestrians or cyclists. Still, the agency chose its words carefully. Closing the probe doesn’t mean they’re saying the system is flawless. It just means that, for now, the fixes and the data are enough to pause any further action. For Tesla, this is a small but welcome win. It proves that sometimes, a few targeted software tweaks are enough to keep regulators satisfied. But with the bigger FSD investigation still hanging over the company, Tesla’s self-driving tech is far from out of the spotlight. Tesla View the full article

Dearborn, Michigan-based automaker Ford has plans for an affordable EV and is developing a new hypercar. But while it's working on exciting new products, it also has work to do on its existing vehicles, as highlighted by a new recall filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Blue Oval has had several major recalls of late, and its latest shows that even the simplest parts of a vehicle can cause trouble, with the new recall affecting the windshield wiper arms of both SUVs and Super Duty pickups. Let's take a closer look. Numerous Ford and Lincoln Pickups and SUVs Recalled James Riswick/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The new recall has been issued because the windshield wiper arms on the following vehicles may break, which causes the wipers to fail: 2021-2023 Lincoln Navigator - 17,210 vehicles2021-2023 Ford Expedition - 79,164 vehicles2022-2023 Ford Super Duty (F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600) - 326,239 vehiclesThe problem has been traced to Ford's supplier, with the recall report stating that the windshield wiper arm's latch retention plate, which keeps the arm head properly seated on the wiper arm, may have been incorrectly staked. The report also says that the engagement between the knurl and wiper arm head can be reduced by variations in dimensions, and without proper knurl-to-arm head teeth engagement, the wiper may not operate correctly. Related: Ford Bronco Wildtrak Returns for 2026—More Updates Rolled Out Simply put, it seems that the supplier produced the wiper arm latch retention plates in such a way that the splines on these wiper arms may be stripped, and that causes them to slip. Especially if it's still snowing in your area, this could be particularly dangerous. If this issue is bad enough, the wiper arms may also detach from the vehicle, creating a potential hazard for other road users. And because the named vehicles are a few years old, this problem has already been felt by numerous owners. Ford's Latest Recall Doesn't Yet Have a Fix Ford Thus far, Ford is aware of 1,538 warranty reports, 11 field reports, and three customer service reports associated with this windshield wiper arm issue, but no accidents, injuries, or fires related to the problem have come to light. Still, many recalls can take months to resolve after they're issued by the NHTSA, and this is one of them, despite the problem appearing relatively simple. The recall report says that while Ford intends to notify owners of the recall between April 13 and 17, a planned remedy owner notification date has not yet been decided on. Hopefully, this issue will be resolved soon. View the full article

Lawsuit RefiledA class action lawsuit filed by plaintiffs in Pennsylvania, New York, and Missouri alleges that GM neglected to issue a recall for faulty brake master cylinders that were prone to failure. As per the filing, the affected 2025 model year vehicles are the Chevrolet Traverse and Colorado, GMC Acadia and Canyon, and the Buick Enclave. This is a refiling of the October 2025 lawsuit that now includes Missouri, in addition to Pennsylvania and New York, and includes all persons or entities who leased or purchased any of the above-mentioned five models in these states. GMC The Alleged IssueAccording to court filings, the issue stems from faulty internal seals within the master cylinder. Failure of these seals leads to a loss of hydraulic pressure, brake fluid leaks, and ultimately brake failure. Drivers report seeing red warning lights indicating faulty braking systems and malfunctioning ABS systems, as well as ‘Service Brake System’ dashboard messages. Complaints also include brake pedals either locking up or, conversely, going all the way to the floorboards, combined with extended stopping distances and even complete brake failure. The Plaintiffs Pennsylvania plaintiff Eric Barron had the master cylinder on his 2025 Chevrolet Traverse replaced for free by GM after it failed. In addition to claims for violations of the Pennsylvania Lemon Law, breach of express warranty, breach of implied warranty of merchantability, fraudulent concealment, and unjust enrichment, his complaint includes the fact that the loaner vehicle provided by GM while the repairs were carried out was smaller than his Traverse. Chevrolet New York plaintiff Chelsey Thompson also owns a 2025 Chevrolet Traverse and had GM replace the master cylinder for free after it failed. The complaint claims that GM violated the New York Lemon Law and the express warranty, and goes on to claim that GM is guilty of breach of express warranty, breach of implied warranty of merchantability, fraudulent concealment, and unjust enrichment. The newest plaintiff is Simon Moeller from Missouri, who experienced a brake master cylinder failure in his 2025 GMC Acadia. He too sued GM over violations of express warranty, breach of implied warranty of merchantability, fraudulent concealment, and unjust enrichment, after GM replaced the faulty component for free. GM RespondsGeneral Motors has responded to the allegations by noting that all affected vehicles were repaired free of charge, adding that the plaintiffs’ vehicles were not covered under a prior service bulletin addressing similar issues in the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse and 2025 Buick Enclave. The lawsuit, however, counters that the same brake components are used across multiple vehicles, hence extending the risk beyond those officially acknowledged in the service bulletin. The lawsuit, Barron, et al., v. General Motors LLC, has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, with the plaintiffs being represented by Sergei Lemberg. View the full article

More Than Just TextingStreaming has made content easier to access, adding a layer of convenience for users. However, The Guardian reports that it is also increasing road risk, as more drivers use apps like TikTok behind the wheel – a clear form of distracted driving. TikTok is built around short-form content, with some videos lasting only a few seconds, while others, such as dance challenges, run a bit longer. That means users can consume a full clip and get a quick dose of entertainment almost instantly, unlike longer-form videos that often come with extended intros or outros. The downside is that this makes apps like TikTok an especially tempting distraction for drivers, as it can feel like an easy excuse to sneak in a quick video while on the road. Some drivers – such as the Uber driver cited in the publication’s report – even watch longer videos, typically sports broadcasts that can last for hours. Others even livestream themselves or make content while driving, adding yet another distraction instead of focusing solely on the road. A Growing Safety ConcernAccording to 2023 data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 3,275 road fatalities and more than 300,000 injuries in the United States were linked to distracted driving, though the agency did not specify the exact sources of distraction. Drivers ages 15 to 20 had the largest proportion of those involved in fatal crashes who were reported as distracted. Charlie Klauer, a research scientist and associate professor at Virginia Tech, also noted the rise in distracted driving as smartphones have become more advanced. “The progression has gone from texting to browsing and looking and watching, which we now see a lot of. It’s Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and a wide range of things,” she said. Forty-nine states and Washington, D.C., have already banned texting while driving, but the rise of streaming platforms suggests lawmakers may need to consider new regulations to address them. James Ochoa The Push for SolutionsAutomakers are also doing their part to help curb crashes caused by distracted driving. For example, EVs such as the Tesla Model 3 only allow streaming apps like YouTube and in-car games to be used while parked, which is especially useful for drivers waiting during charging stops. Some automakers, such as Volkswagen, are even bringing back physical buttons to reduce distraction when adjusting settings on large screens. After all, using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is believed to impair reaction time even more than alcohol or drugs. While stronger measures to address modern distracted driving are still catching up, the safest approach is to stay fully alert behind the wheel and watch for others who may not be. It may also help not to support creators who film while driving, as discouraging that behavior could ultimately save lives. A View the full article

Vehicle affordability has come under the microscope in the U.S. in recent times, with new car prices up by around 22% relative to 2019 levels, according to a Bank of America Institute report. For many Americans, this means downsizing to smaller, cheaper models. Toyota and Honda have historically offered some of the most value-conscious vehicles in the country, and while they still do, the last year has seen a reversal of note. In Q1 2025, entry-level Hondas easily outsold equivalent Toyotas, but that’s changed in 2026. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening. 2025 Vs. 2026 Budget-Car Sales: Toyota Overtakes Honda 2026 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Toyota View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The models we’ve chosen to focus on are the cheapest sedan/hatchback and SUV from each automaker. The sedan/hatchback models are the ubiquitous Corolla and Civic, while the crossovers are the Corolla Cross and HR-V. Anyone looking for an affordable Japanese model will very likely have one or more of these models on their shortlist. In Q1 2025, Honda’s cheapest sedan, hatchback, and crossover lineup outsold Toyota’s by 20,344 units. Over the same quarter in 2026, Toyota is ahead by 4,050 models. Here’s a look at Q1 sales for all four models across the last two years. Segment Model Q1 2025 Sales Q1 2026 Sales % Change Compact Car Toyota Corolla 55,456 62,574 +12.8% Compact Car Honda Civic 58,976 57,600 -2.3% Subcompact Crossover Toyota Corolla Cross 24,120 30,093 +24.8% Subcompact Crossover Honda HR-V 40,944 31,017 -24.2% Toyota gained significant ground in the entry-level segment over the last year, with 92,667 cars sold, while Honda’s volume went down to 88,617 units; that's still close, but a complete turnaround from a year ago. Interestingly, the Corolla Cross grew at almost exactly the same rate as the HR-V declined. Civic sales were steadier, but it was still overtaken by the older Corolla in Q1 2026. Toyota said the non-hybrid Corolla Cross achieved its best-ever sales over this period in 2026. Related: New Edmunds Data Exposes Bitter Reality of New Car Affordability Honda May Have a Pricing Problem Honda/Toyota Assuming that more Americans are shopping with their heads than their hearts in this price-sensitive segment, Toyota has a distinct advantage. The 2026 Corolla starts at $23,125, which is $1,570 less than the cheapest Civic. The gap rises when you look at hatchbacks and hybrids; the Corolla Hybrid is $4,960 less than the Civic Hybrid. You can also get a Corolla Hatchback for $3,315 less than a Civic Hatchback. Looking at the crossovers, we can see the same pattern emerge. The base Corolla Cross starts at $25,035, which is $1,565 less than the most affordable HR-V. There’s no HR-V hybrid, another aspect that holds Honda’s smallest crossover back, since you can buy a Corolla Cross Hybrid for $29,395. Toyota In January, Honda said it would be increasing production of cheaper, non-hybrid models due to strong demand. It may be more prudent for Honda to introduce less powerful, more affordable hybrids, though. The Civic Hybrid has a 200-horsepower powertrain, so it’s a lot quicker than the 138-hp Corolla Hybrid. But that boost in performance comes with a significant price premium that many buyers may not be able to afford. Admittedly, the Civic and HR-V do feel a touch more premium than the Corolla and Corolla Cross, and the Hondas are nicer to drive, too. But the sales figures suggest affordability trumps everything else in this category right now. Related: Honda Is Making More Gas Cars Because Buyers Can’t Afford Hybrids What It Means Toyota Although Honda may have the more desirable lineup of small cars under $30,000, the turnaround in sales this year aligns with Toyota’s keener pricing and the industry-wide demand for more affordable cars. Toyota’s Corolla and Corolla Cross may not set your pants on fire, but they offer decent space and a solid selection of features for the money. For many Americans, that’s all that matters. While Honda has prioritized production of cheaper non-hybrid models, it could do with a cheaper, less powerful hybrid sedan or crossover to better compete with its great rival. For now, Toyota is winning the entry-level battle and doing a better job of catering to buyers with tighter budgets. View the full article

The First SupercarTo be considered the first of anything is high praise; the same idea applies to being called a trendsetter. In the world of top-performance supercars, the classification itself dates back to the late '60s, when a budding automotive company shocked the world. The Lamborghini Miura is best known as the first-ever supercar and is credited with setting the trend of the mid-engined rear-wheel-drive layout. It has always been a grail car for most, and whenever one comes up for sale, the value is high, but something just came up that isn't your typical Miura. Mecum Auctions View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article One-Of-One ColorschemeNow listed on Mecum Auctions is a 1972 Lamborghini Miura P400 SV. As if the Super Veloce (SV) variant wasn't enough, it's the only Miura produced in Bleu Tahiti with gold accents over white leather. The '60s and '70s were a time of self-expression, and this absolutely groovy colorway is a testament to that era. Looking at it more, though, it suits the Miura and shows that the original owner had exquisite taste compared to some of the more outlandish examples out there. The whole car is in immaculate condition, and as it should be, given that it's only done 1,516 km (941 miles). Accompanying the striking exterior is a well-conditioned white leather interior that makes the interior look and seem much bigger. It has undergone a restoration courtesy of Italian car specialist Cremonini Carrozzeria in Modena, Italy. Chassis No. 5066 is a late-model Miura, which adds to its value because of the upgrades made to improve performance and livability. It still features the legendary 3.9-liter transversely mounted V12, making 385 horsepower, with power sent to the rear wheels via a 5-speed manual. A critical upgrade applied to the late-model Miura is the split oil sump system; early models shared oil between the engine and gearbox, so small metal shavings from the gearbox could damage engine internals. The chassis was also reinforced, and the rear suspension was completely reworked to fix the notorious handling issues the Miura had. Finally, late models were also given air conditioning. Mecum Auctions View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Cost of RarityGiven the Lamborghini Miura's status, expect high auction prices. The most recent sale of the same model-year SV was a record $6,605,000, just last March. With a special one-off colorway, low mileage, and late model upgrades, this listing could easily top that. This car is expected to hit the block on May 16, 2026, during Mecum's Indy 2026 Auction. Mecum Auctions View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Not Your Typical BugattiEnthusiasts familiar with Bugatti’s history may already know the EB110, the two-door sports car that preceded the famed Veyron. Less well known, however, is the EB112, a four-door sedan derived from the EB110. Financial troubles in the 1990s kept Bugatti from bringing it to full production. On the plus side, the three completed examples became ultra-rare collector cars, and one is now headed to auction at RM Sotheby’s. Unlike the EB110, which was focused primarily on performance and motorsport, the EB112 was conceived as a more luxurious, limousine-type alternative, echoing classic Bugatti models such as the Type 41 Royale. It was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the same stylist behind some of the most iconic cars of all time, including the DMC DeLorean, made famous by the Back to the Future films. Bugatti originally built just three EB112s in the period: one drivable prototype and two styling models. After the automaker filed for bankruptcy, Monegasque businessman Gildo Pallanca Pastor acquired company assets and enabled two additional running examples to be completed, the last of which is the car now being offered for sale. RM Sotheby's Second Life for the EB112Pastor acquired the assets to source parts for his EB110, which he was campaigning in motorsport and needed to maintain. As part of the deal, he also received an incomplete EB112 chassis and components, which were later finished into fully running examples in the late 1990s. Underpinned by a carbon-fiber chassis, the EB112 is powered by a 6.0-liter naturally aspirated V12 mounted behind the front axle. It was derived from the EB110’s 3.5-liter V12, which used turbocharging and was mounted at the rear, giving that model a more overtly performance-focused layout. Output dropped from 600 horsepower to 460 horsepower, but the four-door iteration was still said to be capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 4.3 seconds and reaching a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The drivetrain consists of a six-speed manual transmission and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. RM Sotheby's A Grand Tourer at HeartThe vehicle also features a more prominent Bugatti “horseshoe” grille, rear seats with a fold-down armrest, door panels trimmed with metal accents in a Perlée finish, and an umbrella that features a scaled-down version of Italian sculptor Rembrandt Bugatti’s signature elephant figure. RM Sotheby’s has listed this 1999 Bugatti EB112, which shows just 388 km (241 miles) on the odometer, with an estimated value of $1,750,000 to $2,300,000. Sure, the EB112 is neither an EB110 nor a Veyron, but its four-door layout and the fact that only three were built should make people stop and wonder what they’re looking at, while also appealing to collectors for its rarity and unique place in the automaker’s history. The car is set to be auctioned at the Monaco Auction 2026 on April 25. The buyer would become the third owner, following Pastor and the current owner, who acquired the car in 2015. RM Sotheby's View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

This Is Not Your Typical IS 350It looked like the Lexus IS was on its way out, but Lexus decided to give it one more shot. The latest update isn’t a total overhaul. Think of it as a tune-up: sharper styling, improved tech, and a few tweaks to the chassis to keep it in the game. Underneath, though, it’s still the same platform that’s been around for over ten years. Now, Lexus is trying something new – moving the IS into the world of art and culture. This latest project puts the IS in front of people who might not usually pay attention to cars. At EXPO Chicago, Lexus is debuting a one-off IS 350, created in collaboration with artist Alex Alpert. Lexus Turning the IS Into a CanvasThe concept is simple but not something you see every day: use the IS as a blank canvas. Alpert covered the car in his signature line art, with graphics that follow the body lines, making the surfaces look almost two-dimensional. The hood features illustrations that tie back to what Lexus is all about: craftsmanship, precision, performance, and even hospitality. There’s also a quiet reference to Japanese heritage in the design, which adds a little more story to the car. This art car is just the start. Over the next year, Alpert will bring similar live art projects to events like NYCxDesign and Art Basel in Miami. Here, the IS goes beyond being a car – it becomes a platform for something different. Lexus When Will the Next-Gen IS Arrive?This custom IS 350 won’t be showing up at dealerships, and Lexus hasn’t said anything about making a version you can buy. It’s a statement car, like the BMW art cars – a way to get people talking about the IS as the market moves away from sedans. It’s hard to say if this will keep the IS around for much longer. The platform is still (very) old, and the competition isn’t letting up. For now, though, Lexus is letting the IS try something different – leaning into art and design while everyone else sticks to the usual playbook. Lexus View the full article

What Might Have BeenHonda has produced many interesting concepts over the years. Of course, most don't actually reach production, but there are one or two from the past decade that we wish the Japanese automaker had made for real. The first is the properly compact Sports EV Concept, shown at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show. We'd probably swap its electric powertrain for a compact hybrid, but we reckon it could've been a sweet little sports coupe. The other one is the Project 2&4 powered by RC213V. Admittedly, it's a clumsy name, but its intent is laser-focused on delivering thrills. Honda What is the Project 2&4 powered by RC213V?The Project 2&4 was born from a design contest at the company and was the winning entry in Honda's 'Global Design Project.' Honda called it part motorcycle and part car, and it's also a nod to its first Formula 1 car, the RA272 from 1965. It was first shown during the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, coinciding with the race car's 50th anniversary. We can certainly see some inspiration from the RA272, but the Project 2&4 is even more extreme than the classic race car. The 'interior' is literally just a seat, a steering wheel, and a floating screen for instrumentation. The body is completely stripped out, giving onlookers an uninterrupted view of the car's internals. But the party really starts when you look at the specs. Honda A Pocket RocketClassic Formula 1 cars are tiny, but the Project 2&4 took that to the extreme. It's a little under 120 inches long and will fit between the wheelbases of a full-sized pickup. The car is also less than 40 inches tall, and it weighs a mere 893 lbs. As for the motorcycle part, that's the powertrain. The engine used to motivate the Project 2&4 came straight from an RC213V. The RC213V is powered by a 1.0-liter engine that revs up to 14,000rpm (depending on market), making 212 hp and 87 lb-ft of torque. Shifting came courtesy of a six-speed dual-clutch transmission. Sure, it doesn't sound like much, but with less than a ton to pull around, it might have given something like an Ariel Atom a good scare. Unfortunately, it was never bound for production, and it's presumably neatly tucked away somewhere in one of Honda's garages. The Project 2&4 could've been an absolute track weapon, but we can only imagine how fast it could've gone. Honda View the full article

There’s no question that the Porsche 911 has the most varied lineup of all sports cars on sale around the world, with the German luxury brand offering no fewer than 22 variants. From the base 911 Carrera to the 911 Turbo and from the coupe to the convertible and the Targa, the 911 offers an unrivaled variety of powertrains and body styles so that everyone (who can afford it) can buy the 911 best suited to their needs. Porsche’s website currently lists a total of 22 variants for the 911, but you can make that 23 already because a new one is coming on April 14. Is This the First-Ever Porsche 911 GT3 Cabriolet?Porsche’s YouTube channel will host the digital world premiere of a mysterious new 911 model on April 14, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. CEST (10 a.m. EDT). The automaker is being secretive about the new model, sharing only a teaser image of the car completely covered in a black tarpaulin. Porsche says the new 911 variant will offer "pure driving pleasure" and will be presented in an entertaining film that will see well-known car experts put it through its paces on the spectacular mountain roads of Tenerife. Interestingly, the experts won’t know which car they will be driving, which suggests that the video will feature a camouflaged prototype. Now, the teaser image may not reveal much, but those with a keen eye for detail will immediately spot the four-point LED daytime running lights, which is the unique front lighting signature of the 992.2 GT3 and 992.2 GT3 with Touring Package. This is a strong clue that the new model is a new 911 GT3 variant, but what could it possibly be? The most logical variant would be the facelifted 992.2 GT3 RS, but seeing as the car in the photo lacks a rear wing, that’s very unlikely. A closer look at the teaser image may hold the key to this, as above the windshield we can spot a small seam that’s a strong indication this could be a convertible. A 911 GT3 Convertible, though? While that may seem like a stretch—Porsche never built a drop-top 911 GT3 before—there are some precedents in the company’s recent history. As recently as 2019, Porsche offered the 991.2 Speedster, which was essentially a 911 GT3 without a fixed roof. Add to this recent spottings of a convertible 911 GT3 test prototype, and this seems like the safest bet as to what new 911 GT3 iteration we are dealing with here. The 911 GT3's 502-hp naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine with a six-speed manual and the open sky above the head seems like the stuff of dreams for any 911 enthusiast, so we only have three words to Porsche regarding this: bring it on! View the full article

The Last Units Come at a PremiumWhile discontinued models are typically discounted to clear inventory, Tesla is taking the opposite approach. Remaining inventory of the outgoing Model S and Model X has seen a roughly $15,000 price hike, pushing both veteran electric vehicles into six-figure territory. The Model S AWD now starts at $109,990, while the performance-focused Plaid trim begins at $124,900. Its crossover counterpart, the Model X, starts at $114,900 in AWD form and $129,900 in Plaid form. It is worth noting, however, that many of the remaining units are demo vehicles, meaning they already have some mileage and are being offered with varying discounts. Tesla What Buyers Will Find in InventoryBased on Tesla’s online inventory, a 2026 Model S AWD demo vehicle with 2,186 miles is listed at $105,700 after a $4,290 discount, at least as of this writing. Most, if not all, of these units also appear to come with the Luxe package, which includes a four-year Protection Plan, free Supercharging, and Premium Connectivity for features such as music and video streaming. Tesla ended production of these EVs to help free up capacity at its Fremont factory in California for projects like the Optimus humanoid robot. After all, they no longer sell in significant numbers compared with the more affordable Model 3 and Model Y. Nevertheless, the outgoing models helped establish the brand in the early 2010s, well before mainstream EVs such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E entered the market. For the remaining inventory, prospective buyers can also acquire these vehicles through lease or financing options. Tesla Not Just About Cars AnymoreNo credible reports of a Model S replacement have emerged, suggesting Tesla may be stepping away from the segment as it broadens its focus beyond traditional EVs. The automaker is also developing the Cybercab, a two-seat robotaxi aimed at competing with companies such as Waymo. With the price increase appearing to serve as Tesla’s last hurrah for the two models, it suggests the brand still sees value in them even as they head toward retirement. It could also support resale values for current owners looking to part with their Model S or Model X. For buyers seeking alternatives, options include the Lucid Air and Porsche Taycan for sedan shoppers, as well as the Lucid Gravity and Rivian R1S for those considering a three-row electric SUV. Tesla View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Tough SUV Meets an Unexpected IssueThe Mercedes-Benz G-Class has built its name on being tough and dependable, the kind of SUV you expect to handle just about anything. But even legends have their weak spots, especially when new tech enters the mix. Now, some 2025 G580 with EQ Technology models are being recalled due to a wheel issue. Put simply, the bolts holding the wheels on can loosen up over time, and in rare cases, a wheel could actually come off while driving. That’s not what you expect from a vehicle built to take on rough trails, especially one that’s just stepped into the world of high-torque EVs. The recall was filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under campaign number 26V198, covering a specific batch of early-production electric G-Class units. Mercedes-Benz What Went WrongThe root of the problem is simple: old hardware meeting new demands. Engineers reused the same wheel bolts from the gas-powered G-Class, which worked fine before. But the electric version brings a whole new set of stresses those bolts weren’t designed for. With the G580 EV, you get a lot more weight from the battery pack and a surge of torque that hits faster than any gas engine. The original bolts just weren’t up to the task, according to the recall documents. Over time, and under the right conditions, the bolts can slowly work themselves loose from the hub. If that goes unnoticed, it could mess with stability and raise the risk of an accident. Mercedes-Benz says this is really only a concern if you’re pushing the G-Class hard and have had the wheels taken off and put back on several times. For most owners, it’s not likely to show up in daily driving. So far, there haven’t been any incidents, injuries, or warranty claims tied to this in the US. All in all, 3,734 units of the 2025 G580 EV built from February 2024 to August 2025 are affected. Mercedes-Benz What Owners Should DoMercedes-Benz already has a fix lined up. Dealers will swap out the old bolts for a new two-part design that can handle the extra weight and torque. The repair is free for owners. The new bolts have been in use since late August 2025, so newer G580 EVs don’t have this problem. If you own a 2025 electric G-Class, just wait for the official notice or call your dealer to see if your SUV is included. After that, it’s a quick trip to get the new bolts installed. It’s a small fix, but it’s a good reminder that even proven parts can run into trouble when the rules of the game change. Mercedes-Benz View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Not a Carryover From 2025It almost seemed like Ford would let the Bronco coast through 2026 without any real changes. The current model is still selling well, so a bigger update closer to 2027 would have made sense. We actually thought the 2026 model year would just be a carryover. But Ford didn’t stick to that plan. Instead, the 2026 Bronco gets a round of updates that keep it fresh. The big news is the Wildtrak’s return, though it comes back in a different way. Discontinued last year, the Wildtrak isn’t its own trim anymore. Now, it’s an equipment package you can only get with the Bronco Badlands. This move keeps the lineup simpler but still gives buyers the off-road features Wildtrak is known for. Ford What’s Actually New for 2026The Wildtrak package is the main update. It combines the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, 10-speed automatic, and the Sasquatch off-road kit with HOSS 3.0 suspension and FOX internal bypass dampers. Instead of picking through a long list of options, you now get all the key upgrades in one go. You also get a Black Appearance Package, so the Bronco looks more aggressive right from the factory – no need to hunt for extra accessories. Ford also brought back some features that make a difference in daily use. The SecuriCode keypad returns, letting you unlock the Bronco with a code. It’s an old-school Ford touch, but it comes in handy when you’re out on the trail and want to leave your keys behind. Customization gets a boost, too. Orange Fury, a color Mustang fans will recognize, joins the lineup later in the year. Painted roof options are now available for Outer Banks and Raptor, giving buyers more ways to make their Bronco stand out. Ford is putting more focus on the ownership experience. If you buy a 2024 or newer Bronco, you get access to the Bronco Off-Roadeo event. There’s also a partnership with onX, so you get a year of off-road navigation tools. The idea is to help owners actually use the Bronco’s capabilities, not just read about them. Ford 2026 Pricing: Up and DownFord hasn’t released full pricing for 2026 yet, but most numbers are already live in the configurator. The two entry-level trims are still missing official prices as of now. Trim 2025 MSRP 2026 MSRP Base $39,995 — Big Bend $40,845 — Outer Banks $47,940 $48,090 Badlands $49,585 $48,890 Heritage Edition $51,475 $51,625 Stroppe Edition $75,635 $69,995 Raptor $81,900 $79,995 Of note, the prices here don’t include destination charges, priced at $1,995. As you can see, there are some notable price changes. The Bronco Raptor drops by a good margin, and the Stroppe Edition comes down too. Badlands is a bit cheaper as well, which makes sense now that it’s the base for the Wildtrak package. Overall, the 2026 Bronco isn’t a total overhaul. It’s a smart refresh that brings back a familiar name, adds useful features, and adjusts pricing to keep the Bronco competitive. Ford View the 9 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

As the first dedicated high-performance vehicle built on the AMG Electric Architecture (AMG.EA), the upcoming Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe is a big deal for Affalterbach, marking a significant shift for the brand. It needs to be special and convince die-hard AMG enthusiasts that it’s a proper AMG car. This is what Mercedes-Benz is trying to convey to fans in a new video that signals the completion of winter testing for AMG GT 4-Door Coupe near-production prototypes in northern Sweden. As another development milestone is crossed off the list, the electric AMG GT 4-Door Coupe draws closer to its launch that is only a few weeks away. Mercedes-AMG touts “new level of driving dynamics,” even on snow and ice tracks, as the video featuring American actor and AMG brand ambassador Gabriel Macht shows. The AMG EV That Sounds Like a Proper AMGCombining fake V8 engine noises with adjustable drift settings, the bespoke electric AMG model seems like a lot of fun to drive on the ice-carved test track carved in Lapland. The discussion about putting internal combustion engine sounds in an EV is an old one and it all comes down to personal preference. Yours truly sees it as nothing more than a marketing gimmick; if you really miss the throaty sound of a V8, why not buy a V8 AMG? There are still several models available, and the V8 is reportedly returning in the future C63 and CLE63 models. That said, the fake engine sound pumped through the electric AMG GT 4-Door Coupe's speakers sounds very realistic and could probably fool many people that they are really in a gas-powered AMG. Mercedes-Benz As for the drifting, the fully variable AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system in combination with the AMG Race Engineer central driving dynamics control system enables the individual adjustment of response, cornering and slip behavior. AMG says that this “guarantees precise handling and maximum joy of driving – perfectly tailored to personal driving style and the driving situation.” Macht seems genuinely impressed by the electric AMG’s grip on ice and snow, and how controllable the car is on the very slippery surfaces. Obviously, testing on snow and ice allows engineers and drivers to explore a vehicle’s limits faster and more safely, which is one of the reasons all automakers subject their future models to the punishing climate of the Arctic Circle. AMG Race Engineer Central Driving Dynamics Control System Explained Mercedes-AMG The video also offers a glimpse at how the AMG Race Engineer system works via three driving dynamics rotary controls labeled Response, Agility, and Traction. The Response Control dial coordinates the response of the electric motors to accelerator pedal commands, allowing for throttle modulation which is essential when drifting. The Agility Control dial adjusts the agility around the vertical axis and thus the cornering behavior. AMG says the variable and adaptable power distribution “allows for the perception of a shorter or extended wheelbase,” creating a completely different driving behavior: from slight understeer to neutral to controlled oversteer. Finally, the Traction Control dial—already familiar from the AMG GT R and the AMG GT Black Series—is used to control slip, influencing the intervention of traction control in nine stages. It’s worth noting that the effect of each of these dials also depends on the selected driving program, with their full potential being unleashed exclusively in “ESP off” mode. The Most Advanced and Versatile AMG Car Yet Mercedes-Benz The AMG GT 4-Door Coupe is a technological tour de force, featuring three Yasa axial flux electric motors (two at the rear and one at the front) delivering fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles, and a full RWD mode with torque vectoring. The high-performance EV inspired by the spectacular AMG GT XX concept is expected to deliver over 1,341 horsepower (1,000 kW), which will be reined in by a high-performance, hydraulic composite braking system combining front carbon-ceramic brakes with rear steel brakes. This innovative setup is said to provide a precise and modulated brake pedal feel. Add to this the AMG Active Ride Control air suspension with semi-active roll stabilization, which is said to offer a wide spread between sportiness and comfort, and the electric AMG GT 4-Door Coupe promises to juggle top-notch dynamics with luxury car refinement at a level never before seen on an AMG car. View the full article

With gas prices squeezing household budgets across the country, the EPA has stepped in with what it's pitching as a quick fix. Starting May 1, the agency is temporarily expanding the availability of E15 gasoline, a fuel blend containing 15 percent ethanol rather than the standard 10 percent. The logic is simple enough. Ethanol is cheaper to produce than petroleum, so blending more of it into the fuel supply should nudge prices at the pump downward, by 10-25 cents per gallon less than standard gas. For drivers already wincing every time they fill up, that sounds like good news. The EPA says E15 is safe for most 2001-and-newer vehicles; however, the bigger risks apply to older vehicles, small engines, and equipment that sits unused for long periods. Getty Images Your Engine Might Not Be Getting a Good DealEthanol and gasoline do not behave the same way inside an engine, and that difference matters a great deal depending on what you're driving. Ethanol contains less energy per litre than gasoline, which can slightly reduce fuel economy, meaning any savings at the pump can evaporate quickly on the road. The concern goes beyond efficiency, though. Ethanol can separate from the fuel over time, essentially breaking down into a sludge that damages carburetors and fuel systems. Older vehicles, small engine equipment like lawn mowers, some motorcycles, and cars not specifically built to handle higher ethanol concentrations are the most vulnerable. For drivers holding onto a car that is 20 years old or more, the risk is real. The Long-Term Costs Hiding Behind Short-Term SavingsFuel system damage from ethanol exposure tends to be insidious. Over months and years of use, seals and rubber components in older fuel systems can degrade, injectors can clog, and carburetors can corrode. Repairs to these systems can easily run into hundreds of dollars, effectively wiping out any money saved at the pump many times over. Drivers of non-flex fuel vehicles, which are not engineered to tolerate E15 regularly, face the steepest risk. The EPA's plan may ease the pressure on wallets in the short run, but for drivers with older vehicles, the true price of E15 could turn out to be much higher than what shows up at the pump. View the full article

Unless you know your Chinese cars, chances are you haven’t heard of the Geely Galaxy M9, a three-row premium SUV made by China’s second-largest automaker. If Chinese automakers weren’t banned from the US market, this large plug-in hybrid SUV would compete with the likes of the Chevy Traverse, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Toyota Grand Highlander, and its upscale sibling, the Lexus TX, to name only a few potential rivals. While Geely may own Volvo and Polestar, two brands that are present in the US, prohibitive import tariffs and other protectionist measures make it impossible for the company to sell cars from its Chinese brands in the country. Testing Geely's Premium Three-Row SUV in the USStill, the Chinese automaker let popular car-shopping website Edmundstest a Galaxy M9 in the US for about three weeks in everyday scenarios, including going to the grocery store, in addition to subjecting it to a thorough 227-point evaluation on its private test track. The Geely SUV is the first Chinese-market car the publication ever tested in the US, and the impression it made should have Detroit auto executives very concerned. The Galaxy M9 is an extremely versatile SUV with impressive capability. Its plug-in hybrid system delivers a stunning 858 hp and 808 miles of combined range (including 130 miles of EV range, longer than any PHEV currently sold in America), and the performance is mind-blowing for a massive 250-inch long, 5,800-pound SUV. Edmunds / YouTube The 0 to 60 mph sprint was measured by Edmunds at 4.2 seconds (0.1 seconds quicker than the official figure), while the quarter-mile was clocked in 12.9 seconds at 98.6 mph—0.6 seconds quicker than a BMW X5 PHEV. It feels like a fully electric vehicle under acceleration, as well as in terms of how quiet and composed it is. Edmunds measured the Galaxy M9 at 32.5 decibels at idle—better than a Rolls-Royce Spectre! The ride quality is also among the best in a three-row SUV ever driven by reviewer Clint Simone—much better than a Lexus TX plug-in hybrid, he reckoned. A Plush, Hi-Tech Cabin That's Quieter Than a RR Spectre Edmunds / YouTube The interior is also really impressive and at least as well put together as the new Hyundai Palisade. As you can imagine, it has impressive tech on board, including a gigantic 30-inch, 6K resolution central display that’s very quick to respond. The Geely Galaxy M9 shines when it comes to ride quality as well, soaking up bumps in the road like they’re nothing. But there’s a downside to that; the suspension setting is too soft for the American market, favoring comfort first and foremost. Still, that’s nothing that a quick tune-up couldn’t fix if the Galaxy M9 were ever to be sold in the US. Edmunds / YouTube There’s a lot more interesting and intriguing stuff about Geely’s SUV in Edmunds’ video above, so let’s just mention pricing, which is the most shocking thing about the Galaxy M9. In China, it costs between $25,000 and $35,000, with the example sampled by Edmunds being a top-spec model priced around $35,000. Needless to say, you can’t buy anything remotely similar to the Geely Galaxy M9 in the US at that price point. Now, if Geely were ever to bring this vehicle stateside, it would cost much more than $35,000 after tariffs, homologation and other costs. Still, Edmunds reckons the Galaxy M9 would be a great contender even if it were priced at $50,000, $60,000 or $70,000. Could it be that this unbeatable bang for the buck is the real reason why Chinese cars aren’t allowed into the US yet? View the full article

Things were not exactly dire over at Hendrick Motorsports but winning the most recent Cup Series race at Martinsville Speedway in advance of the Easter break was a much needed momentum boost. Prior to Chase Elliott and crew chief Alan Gustafson breaking through with a pit strategy-aided victory over Denny Hamlin, the narrative surrounding the Chevrolet flagship was an organization and ...Keep readingView the full article

A Man With a PlanRyan Tuerck is one of the more recognizable personalities in the motorsports world. He built up his following by competing as a professional drifter, known for his aggressive but precise driving style. He's won multiple notable competitions in the world of drifting over the years. Tuerck is also known for some very cool drift car builds that have become as iconic as himself. He was the man who put a Ferrari 458 V8 in a GT86, a high-revving Judd V10 in an A90 Supra, and a 3D-printed tube chassis on a 1966 Toyota Scout drift truck. His latest creation seems subtle compared to the others, but it is just as impressive. GR Corolla-Powered Celica GT4Tuerck has established a penchant for using Toyotas as his build platforms, and the latest project is no exception. Tuerck has claimed this as one of his dream builds, taking the iconic '90s Celica GT4 and putting the modern beating heart of the Toyota GR Corolla. Moving away from his normally drift-biased cars, project GT411 is a rally car that pays homage to what made the Celica famous. Ryan Tuerck/YouTube Ryan claims that his philosophy for this car was to build a "psycho rally car." He already has a JDM Celica GT4, which he admitted he wanted to keep street-legal, so for this project, he built the GT411 using a US-model Celica GT. Since all US sixth-generation Celicas were front-wheel drive only, heavy modifications were needed to convert it to an all-wheel-drive rally car. Some things were modified, such as the floor plan, which includes a rear installation of a subframe to accommodate an all-wheel-drive powertrain. Other modifications are Wavetrac differentials connected to a Holinger sequential gearbox. The panels were converted to carbon fiber for lightness and durability, and of course, the addition of the roll cage. A highlight of this build is the G16E-GTS 1.6-liter 3-cylinder turbo found in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. GT411's version is a heavily modded unit that, in low boost, makes 500 hp and, in big boost trim, can reach 600 hp. Most of the work was done by Teixeira Fabrication, who installed the Garrett Turbo, a custom exhaust, and the new engine internals. Ryan Tuerck/YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Paying DividendsProject Celica GT411 took over a year to fully build, and made its debut at the FAT Ice Race in Montana. While there were still some teething issues, such as the speed sensors that needed calibration, Tuerck was confident that the GT411 could perform well on the ice rally track. Amazingly, Tuerck and the GT411 nabbed second place in the rally, proving that the build was well worth it and giving Tuerck a rally trophy to add to his accolades. While the whole build may not be faithful to the Celica's true rally form, GT411 is a tasteful and capable take on a modern Celica rally challenger. Ryan Tuerck/YouTube View the full article

Junkyard Datsun Meets Viper V10 Back-from-the-brink stories are always interesting. Whether it's a long story of a man and his car over the years, or a fast scramble to be able to make it to a show, it's always a good time. Brad Builds had to do the latter. He took 60 days to build this Datsun 240Z for SEMA 2026. That's less than 10 weeks from rusting to rolling into the show. The chassis was bought from a junkyard in 2021, about five years ago, seemingly destined to rot and already stripped of most of its original parts. TheHoonigans/BradBuilds It Wasn't Much... But It Became So Much MoreIt's hard to believe that the 240Z has been around since 1969. That's more than half a century. Of course, rust was an issue at the start, and in the first four years of ownership, Brad had his work cut out for him. From when he first got it to the time that he started building it for SEMA 2026, Brad was addressing rust-bucket issues and the typical soul-searching and figuring out what to do with it. He was figuring out whether to do a full resto-mod or something different. Safe to say, he chose the latter (again). "You know what? I'm a put the biggest motor I can possibly put into it." Initially, Brad was thinking V12, but it wouldn't have fit, so he went for the Dodge Viper's V10 – instead of turning it into a coffee table. Cramming all that engine into a chassis meant to house a Japanese inline-six cylinder was a bit of a challenge, and it actually involved the car getting strapped to the engine hoist to receive the engine from the underside because Brad didn't have a hoist strong enough for the herculean ten-cylinder. Early days, before the Viper's V10 even crossed his mind. Brad Builds View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Personal Touch Brad actually started automotive renders about 6 to 7 years ago. After posting online, building a following, and letting his imagination run wild on his computer screen, he brought his passion into the real world, which was enough to start his own aftermarket parts company specializing in 3D fabrication and rendering. Except for the Wrap, Headers, and PDM, everything was executed by Brad. In his interview with Hoonigan, he cites that the roll cage fabrication was initially done in CAD software, then it eventually transitioned to the real world, and on the Z. If you're wondering what body kit Brad's 240Z has, it's a completely custom job. His own render made it to the real world. The wide body takes the lines that made the 240z so attractive and extends them out to match the energy of the V10. On top of that, the headlights are a fantastic overthought redesign of the original. Thanks to the magic of 3D printing, the Z's headlights are not only more aerodynamically efficient, but they also house LED headlights and a brake ducting system, all of which were designed and manufactured by Brad. How's that getting in there? Brad Builds View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Where is the Hood? One of the bigger questions that I had while seeing this build online was: "Where is the hood?" According to Brad, the Viper's V10 was "close enough." At first, it looked like it wouldn't fit, but it did – just barely. The problem was the headers. Brad had to go with a custom set of headers to get the engine headers to fit between the strut towers and the sides of the engine. The result is a wild set of headers that look nothing like what you expect. Perhaps the craziest part about this is that the engine was fitted and started in the car three days before SEMA. Even though it was only three days, the most impressive thing was that the car drove with its own power on the show floor. Once there, it managed to catch the eye of Hoonigan and even Larry Chen, who also did an interview with Brad. Speaking of power, if you have to know, the Viper engine is close to stock, but Dodge has said in the past you can expect about 30 additional horsepower from the V10 if you remove the intake and exhaust restrictions. Because Brad mentioned that the stock Viper made about 450 horsepower when new, that would mean his engine is an SR-2 Viper's. Given that he's freed up the system, one could infer that this 240Z makes around the ballpark of 480 to 500 horsepower at the crank. TheHoonigans/BradBuilds Watch the Process If you want to learn more about Brad Build's 240z, check it out on this playlist on his YouTube channel, or watch his video interview with Hoonigan to learn more about what is one of the wildest Zs to have been built so far. View the full article

Despite all the success, the past month has been a challenge for Justin Allgaier, specifically as it pertains to his duties at Hendrick Motorsports and driving the No. 48 while Alex Bowman continues his recovery. On one hand, since taking over the car at Las Vegas, Allgaier has ripped off finishes of fourth, first, first and third for his day job on Saturdays in the O’Reilly Series for JR ...Keep readingView the full article

Rewriting the 911 PlaybookBefore Singer Vehicle Design began reimagining the Porsche 911, RUF Automobile had already been re-engineering the German sports car since the 1970s to deliver greater performance. One of its most unique creations is this RoW 1985 911 Targa for sale, which produces about 430 horsepower – nearly double its factory output. Listed on PCar Market, the vehicle is believed to be the only Targa built to BTR III specification, effectively making it a one-off. The package converted the stock 3.2-liter naturally aspirated flat-six into a 3.4-liter turbocharged engine when RUF reworked the car in 1990. It remained with one owner from 1990 to 2024 before passing to the seller, who carried out a full restoration, leaving it presented in nearly as-new condition. PCar Market A Ground-Up RevivalThe restoration included rebuilding the engine with new internals, including the pistons, cylinders, valve springs, and timing chains, among others. The RUF-installed G50 5-speed manual transmission was also overhauled, along with the suspension and braking systems. All of these mechanical changes were said to be in line with the original RUF BTR III specifications. The exterior, meanwhile, has been refinished in its original Guards Red. It also retains RUF conversion components, including a front valance with integrated fog lights, quad exhaust outlets, a rear spoiler, and the tuner’s 17-inch alloy wheels, now fitted with a new set of tires. Inside, the car keeps its original RUF modifications, such as reupholstered front and rear seats trimmed in black leather, a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, and VDO instrumentation, while receiving new carpeting. Other equipment includes an air-conditioning system, power windows, central locking, and a Blaupunkt cassette stereo paired with updated speakers. PCar Market The Price of One-Off StatusGiven that some RUF-built 911s have sold for millions, this example, residing in California, is also expected to pull serious money. The current bid stands at $150,250, with the auction set to end on April 8. Although the odometer shows 46,100 km (28,645 miles), the current owner has driven the car only about 30 miles since its full rebuild. In a sea of RUF-modified Porsche coupes, this Targa stands out as something different – an open-air alternative for buyers willing to trade a bit of rigidity for added character. Then again, with 430 horsepower on tap, any compromise is likely to be of little consequence. PCar Market View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Take Me to the ‘70sFew cars fit into automotive culture quite like the Lotus Esprit. It’s sharp, geometric, and unapologetically low, always linked to late ’70s optimism and the Bond era. For us car nuts, it’s more than a sports car. Enter the Encor Series 1 – a ground-up remaster that sticks to what made the Esprit iconic. Encor scanned an original car, refined the surfaces, and rebuilt it with modern materials and engineering where it matters. The silhouette is still unmistakable. Now there’s proof this project is moving from concept to reality. Encor has fired up the car’s twin-turbo V8 for the first time, and the sound is exactly what you’d hope for. A Familiar Sound, ReworkedThe first startup says more than any spec sheet. It shows whether a restomod really understands its roots or just copies the look. As you can hear from the short clip above, the sound is mechanical, not overly polished. There’s a raw edge that fits the Esprit’s character. It isn’t artificially enhanced or too refined. It’s a proper mid-engine V8, just more sorted than before. On paper, the numbers are modest for a modern supercar, and that’s by design. The 3.5-liter twin-turbo V8, based on the original Esprit V8, has been rebuilt with forged internals, upgraded turbos, and modern fuel and cooling. Output is about 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. While those numbers aren’t exactly headline-grabbing, they match the car’s projected weight of under 2,650 pounds. It’s the kind of balance that would make sense to Colin Chapman, whose philosophy still shapes anything called Esprit. A reworked five-speed manual with Quaife parts fixes one of the original car’s weak spots. Encor seems focused on improving the drive, not just boosting the stats. Encor Carbon Skin, Classic ShapeBeyond the powertrain, the Encor Series 1 stays true to its brief. The original fiberglass body is now a single-piece carbon-fiber shell, slightly wider for modern tires and cooling. Pop-up headlights are still here, now with LED projectors. Inside, the cockpit keeps its angled layout, tartan accents, and mostly analog feel. There’s a digital display in a billet aluminum binnacle, but it doesn’t take over the helm. Modern tech is there, just not in your face. Performance estimates put 0–62 mph at about 4 seconds, with a top speed near 175 mph. Quick enough, but still true to what this car is meant to be. Production is limited to 50 units worldwide. Pricing starts at £430,000 (around $570,000) before options and a donor car. Deliveries are set for the second quarter of 2026. Encor View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article