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When it comes to the YouTuber known as Cleetus McFarland making his NASCAR O’Reilly Series debut this weekend at Rockingham Speedway, future NASCAR Hall of Famer Rodney Childers articulated the benefits and potential concerns as well as anyone. “We need the publicity and we need the personalities,” Childers told Motorsport.com on Friday morning. “You know, we have a lot of drivers these ...Keep readingView the full article

After a brief rain delay, qualifying got underway for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Rockingham on Friday. 38 trucks were competing for 36 spots on the grid, with two missing the snow. One of those was Jonathan Shafer in the No. 69 MBM Motorsports Ford, after a crash in practice meant he could not take part in qualifying. The other DNQ was Justin Carroll in the No. 90 Terry Carroll ...Keep readingView the full article

Jaguar has issued a recall for over 16,000 I-Pace electric crossovers in the UK over a potential fire safety risk, sending owners into panic mode. In a notice issued to I-Pace customers, Jaguar said some of the EVs have experienced thermal overload in the battery, which “may present as smoke or fire.” Interestingly, while the UK’s Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) said over 26,000 vehicles built up to the end of 2021 model year are believed to be affected, Jaguar Land Rover said the figure is closer to 16,300. Owners Should Park the EVs Outside and Charge Them to 90% Capacity “A vehicle thermal overload condition, such as fire or smoke, can result in increased risk of occupant injury and/or injury to persons outside the vehicle, as well as property damage,” JLR said in the note to customers obtained by The Independent. The recall comes as I-Pace vehicles up to the 2018 model year have already undergone previous software updates; still, JLR’s “field evidence” shows there’s still a risk. Owners of affected Jaguar I-Pace vehicles are advised to park away from buildings and charge their EVs outside until a provisional fix is developed by the automaker; the repair will restrict the maximum charge of the car to 90%. Almost 800 Owners Signed a Petition Demanding Permanent Fix or Buy-Back for Faulty EVs Change.org Needless to say, the news has upset Jaguar I-Pace owners, especially since there’s no indication as to when a permanent fix will become available. Until then, they are forced to live with a 10% shorter driving range than before and with plunging resale values. Owners are calling on JLR to take immediate action to solve the issue. Some of them are accusing the carmaker of not wanting to replace battery packs that have problems, Electrifying.com reports. Almost 800 people from the UK and Ireland have signed a petition on the Change.org website to raise awareness of the problem and demand a permanent fix or buy-back for faulty I-Pace vehicles. According to the petition, I-Pace drivers have been left nervous about the safety of their cars given the ongoing threat of fire or smoke from faulty battery cells. The affected I-Pace vehicles reportedly feature battery packs manufactured by LG Energy Solutions. The South Korean company has been involved in several other battery recalls in recent years involving Hyundai, Tesla, Volkswagen and most notably, GM EVs that exhibited similar issues—remember the Chevy Bolt EV recall? Jaguar Has Recalled the I-Pace Several Times in the US Over the Same Issue Jaguar Jaguar has already issued several recalls in the US over the I-Pace’s battery problems, with the most recent in February 2026 affecting over 2,200 2020-2021MY vehicles that posed the risk of the high-battery voltage overheating and causing fires. As with the recent UK recall, affected US owners were advised to park outdoors and limit charging 90% while a permanent fix was developed. The company said a final remedy would be available under a separate recall. A previous, separate recall involving almost 6,400 2019-2024 I-Pace that posed similar fire risks was issued in 2023. Then in November 2024, Jaguar offered a buyback to over 2,700 2019 I-Pace owners in the US as the company was not able to develop a permanent fix. Needless to say, doing the same for other affected I-Pace vehicles globally could prove catastrophic for Jaguar from a financial standpoint and likely a final nail in the coffin for a brand that has bet it all on electric vehicles. View the full article

If you are planning to drive anywhere between the Rockies and the Great Lakes this Easter weekend, read this first. The National Weather Service has Winter Storm Warnings active across 12 states, and what should worry you is not the snow totals on their own. It is when those totals arrive. Two systems are stacking back-to-back, and the second drops its heaviest load Friday night into Saturday morning. That is peak Easter travel. Then it refreezes into Sunday, and roads that looked wet Saturday evening will have a fresh coat of ice by the time anyone heads to church. The NWS Weather Prediction Center put it plainly in their Short Range Discussion: heavy snow from the Dakotas to northern Minnesota, freezing rain across the upper Great Lakes into New England. Two storms, not one. The gap between them is hours. The Snowfall ForecastThe first system is clearing now, while the second builds Friday afternoon through Saturday. If you were planning to leave Friday evening or Saturday morning, that is the single worst window you could pick. And here is the part people always forget: Saturday's slush refreezes overnight. By Easter morning, you could be driving on black ice, not snow. Wyoming and Montana: The Rockies Take the Worst of ItWyoming is absorbing the hardest hit. The Sierra Madre and Snowy Ranges face 12 to 18 inches, up to 20 on the peaks, winds at 60 mph. The Tetons and Gros Ventre could get 12 to 18 inches on western slopes with 45 mph gusts. The northeast Bighorn Mountains are looking at 10 to 20 inches with 50 mph winds. Highway 14 through Burgess Junction: the NWS says driving will be "nearly impossible." South Pass and Salt River Pass are the same story. Montana's northern ranges are in a similar spot. The Pryor and northern Bighorns could see snow totals in excess of 24 inches on the highest peaks, with 50 mph gusts. Absaroka, Beartooth, Crazy Mountains: 1 to 2 feet. US-212 through the Beartooth corridor and I-90 west of Billings: postpone both. The Dakotas and Minnesota: Where Easter Weekend Travel Falls ApartCentral North Dakota already has snow on the ground from the first system. None of it has melted. NWS Bismarck has now issued a Winter Storm Warning for south-central and southeast North Dakota through Saturday afternoon, with the second system expected to drop 9 to 15 inches across that zone and up to 17 inches in parts of the southeast. Bismarck-Mandan could see 6 to 14 inches on its own. North-central South Dakota is looking at 8 to 11 inches, with 6 to 9 spilling into Traverse County, Minnesota. Combined totals well over a foot in places, with 30 to 40 mph gusts on flat prairie highway where the wind has nothing to hit for 50 miles. Minnesota's North Shore has its own winter storm warning. Seven to 10 inches, sleet, ice, Gale Warning on Superior. Even the Twin Cities has an advisory, which tells you something about the rest of the state. Carl D. Walsh for GMC ElsewhereOregon's Cascades have been upgraded to a full winter storm warning, with 10 to 18 inches of snow expected. In northern California, the Sierra Nevada is bracing for up to 12 inches of accumulation alongside winds gusting to 60 mph; chain controls are already in effect on I-80 over Donner Pass and will remain so through Friday. Illinois is forecast to see around 9 inches of snow, with Cook and Lake Counties bearing the brunt of it. Michigan's Upper Peninsula is facing a double threat — 6 inches of snow combined with enough ice accumulation to bring down power lines and cause widespread outages. Maine is dealing with a similar mixed-precipitation situation, with snow and ice continuing through Friday. The HighwaysThe stretch of I-94 running from Bismarck through Jamestown and into Fargo is shaping up to be one of the most treacherous corridors in the country this weekend. Drivers will face drifting snow, near-zero visibility, and virtually no shelter along the way — a combination that makes even short trips genuinely life-threatening. I-90 cutting across South Dakota isn't much better, sitting squarely in the path of two converging storm systems. Beyond those two, several other routes are raising serious concerns. I-29 through Fargo is almost completely exposed to the open plains, leaving it highly vulnerable to blowing and drifting snow. I-35 north of the Twin Cities deteriorates steadily as you head toward Duluth, where conditions are expected to be significantly worse. Highway 61 along the North Shore of Lake Superior adds sleet, ice, and gale-force winds off the lake to an already difficult drive. Highway 14 near Burgess Junction is another high-risk corridor. And in California, I-80 over Donner Pass remains under chain controls, as noted in the Sierra Nevada forecast. Before You DriveYour tires are doing more work than your drivetrain this weekend, whether you have front-wheel drive or a $70,000 truck with four-wheel everything. AWD helps you accelerate. It does nothing for stopping on ice, which is exactly what every bridge and overpass will have after the refreeze. Check your tread (4/32 inches minimum) and check pressures, because cold drops them 1 to 2 PSI per 10 degrees and most people do not notice until they are sliding. Triple your following distance. Throw a blanket, flashlight, phone charger, water, and cat litter in the trunk. And honestly, if you can leave Sunday afternoon instead of Friday night, do that. The snow will not care that it is Easter. View the full article

The Reverse Import WaveNow, reverse importing to Japan isn't new. Honda, Toyota, and Mitsubishi did it way back in the '90s. The practice is making a comeback, though, as a way of appeasement to avoid retaliatory tariffs that could make Japanese-built cars prohibitively expensive, as well as to improve Japan-U.S. trade relations. Toyota and Nissan have committed to the program, but it's Toyota that's first to bring in its American-made cars in its home country. The first models are the Tundra and Highlander, with the Camry soon to follow. Toyota More Relaxed Regs for U.S ImportsMaking this move easier is that Japan has relaxed its regulations on U.S. imports. Some of it includes exemptions from tighter emissions rules and lighting compliance. The Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism does encourage manufacturers to make some region-specific changes, but they are not required. A 'star-spangled sticker' will be placed on those cars to signify compliance. So, did Toyota make any modifications to the American-made models, or just leave these as is? Well, it depends on which model you're referring to here. Toyota The JDM TundraUnlike the many trim levels available in America, the Japanese Tundra comes in only one model. More specifically, it's the non-hybrid 1794 Edition, which is a bit of a surprise given Japan's affinity (and preference) for hybrid vehicles. Based on the specs we saw, the Japanese-market Tundra has no alterations to suit local conditions. Power and torque figures are unchanged, and all the features fitted to it as standard in the U.S. are also present on the Japanese model. And for the full 'foreign market' experience, these Tundras keep their steering wheels on the left-hand side. There is, however, a slight difference in price. The four-wheel drive Tundra 1794 Edition in Japan goes for ¥12,000,000, which is a little over $75,000. For comparison, the base price of the same model in the U.S is $69,475 at the time of writing. Toyota Highlander Makes Its Japanese ReturnUnlike the Tundra, the Highlander was once sold in the Japanese Domestic Market, albeit wearing a different name. Over there, the first-generation model was called the Kluger but was discontinued in its home market after production ended in 2007. Toyota didn't use the Kluger name for the Highlander this time, though the Australian version retains it. Just one trim of the Highlander is offered in Japan, the Limited ZR Hybrid. There is no exact American equivalent, and we can best describe it as slotting in between the Limited and the Platinum. The Limited ZR Hybrid is actually for the Australian and New Zealand markets, and it essentially has some of the extra features found in the Platinum (panoramic sunroof and surround-view monitor), but its exterior largely resembles the Limited. Again, powertrain specs are the same, meaning a 2.5-liter Atkinson Cycle engine mated to three electric motors and all-wheel drive. The Japanese-market Highlander is right-hand drive, as there are already versions of it sold in select markets. As for pricing, it retails for ¥8,600,000 or about $54,000, right in between the North American Limited and Platinum. Toyota Marketing DifferencesIt's interesting to note that both are marketed as luxury/premium models over in Japan, a stark contrast to the U.S. market. Toyota Japan is actually making a lot of noise about the fact that the Tundra and Highlander are made in America. The latter is even described as "a North American-made hybrid SUV [that] combines power and comfort to the extreme." Toyota also set modest sales targets for both vehicles. For the Tundra, the company is aiming to sell 80 units per month, while the Highlander is at 40 units per month. The Tundra doesn't have any real competition in Japan save for parallel importers, though the Highlander's biggest challenge comes from the Mazda CX-80, a stretched CX-60 that, ironically, isn't sold in North America. Toyota View the full article

Nissan’s SUVs Are Doing All the Heavy LiftingBelieve it or not, Nissan actually managed to get through 2025 in decent shape, posting slight gains largely thanks to its SUV-heavy lineup. That same script is playing out again in the first quarter of 2026, and it’s not exactly subtle. The Nissan Rogue remains the centerpiece, with 70,174 units sold from January to March. It didn’t just lead the lineup – it outsold Nissan’s entire passenger car range combined, which managed just 69,812 units in the same period. And it’s not working alone. Trucks and SUVs are up across the board: Frontier jumped 47.9%, Pathfinder climbed 45.2%, Armada rose 17.5%, Kicks gained 16.4%, and Rogue itself grew 13%. Add it all up, and Nissan’s truck/SUV total reached 164,506 units, up 15.6% year-over-year. Nissan Nissan Cars Are Falling Off a CliffIf Nissan’s SUV side tells a story of stability, its car side tells something closer to collapse. Nissan’s total car sales dropped from 111,672 units in Q1 2025 to just 69,812 in Q1 2026 – a steep 37.5% decline. And the breakdown is even more telling: Versa: 10,208 units, down 46.6%Sentra: 35,732 units, down 34.5%Altima: 22,971 units, down 35.9%370Z: 899 units, down 58.3%GT-R: just 2 units, down 93.8%Maxima: effectively gone, down 100%This imbalance is starting to show in the bigger picture. Despite strong truck and SUV demand, Nissan Division sales still declined 7.7% year-over-year to 234,318 units. In other words, SUVs are keeping things afloat, but they’re not fully offsetting how quickly the car lineup is shrinking. Nissan A Structural Problem, Not Just a Slow QuarterIt’s still early in the year, so there’s room for things to shift. But the current trajectory raises some familiar questions about Nissan’s position in the U.S. market. One key issue is where these cars are built. Many of Nissan’s lower-margin sedans are produced in Mexico, leaving them exposed to tariffs and cost pressures that don’t affect US-built SUVs in the same way. That complicates pricing, margins, and ultimately demand. At the same time, consumer preferences haven’t exactly been kind to traditional sedans. Nissan isn’t alone here, but the scale of the drop suggests its car lineup may be losing relevance faster than most. For now, the brand is leaning heavily on utility vehicles to carry volume. And with updates like the incoming Rogue e-Power, that strategy isn’t changing anytime soon. The problem is that relying on one side of the portfolio only works until it doesn’t. Nissan View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Close to LaunchIt won't be too long before Jaguar restarts production with its first-ever electric GT. First impressions had been made, and it's said to be a promising product. The yet-to-be-named model is crucial for Jaguar, and if it fails, we might as well wave goodbye to the British automaker for good. The car is expected to be revealed sometime this year. While there are a few details about it, its price is still a huge question mark. Now, a German publication has published its estimates, and as expected, it won't be cheap. Jaguar And the (Estimated) Price Is...Do note that this model isn't positioned as a successor to the XJ per se. Instead, it's a step or two higher than the previous flagship sedan. With that, Auto Zeitung has reported that the electric Jaguar could carry a base price of €138,000. Convert that to U.S. dollars, and it's a couple of hundred short of $160,000. It's a fair bit higher than the last reported initial estimate of $130,000. Granted, it's a bit of a sticker shock at first glance, but bear in mind that the last range-topping XJ was close to $125,000 in 2019 for the XJR575. Adjust that for inflation, and it's actually about the same for the upcoming electric four-door GT. Considering how much more advanced the new car is over the XJ, it's not that bad. Jaguar What We Know so FarBased on previous reports, there are several interesting key details about the Jaguar EV. For starters, it will come with three electric motors, giving it about 1,000 hp and 1,000 lb-ft of torque. Claimed 0 to 60 mph time is said to be under 3.5 seconds, although top speed is yet to be determined. The rear axle comes with torque vectoring, which should help this near-6,000 lb GT fight physics around the bends. All-wheel drive is included, although the front has an open differential. Twin-chamber air suspension and adaptive dampers are also part of the package, which is what one expects from a flagship vehicle. Battery capacity is estimated at 120kWh, with a range of around 400 miles, while the 800V architecture enables 200 miles of range with a quick 15-minute charge. Of course, we understand the skepticism that still surrounds it. The car itself is a massive gamble, and the divisive relaunch campaign didn't do it any favors. First impressions suggest it deserves to succeed, but in the end, it's the customers who will vote with their wallets. View the full article

The Peak Of Man and MachinePikes Peak is a mountain range in Colorado that is normally just a geological feature, but it also has a long and storied motoring history. Dubbed the "Race to the Clouds," it began its inaugural race in 1916. The race takes place on a 12.42-mile course with 156 turns, climbing from an initial elevation of 9,390 feet to the 14,115-foot summit. Over the decades, it has become a testing bed for man and machine. Pikes Peak has given the world some of the most iconic race cars ever, and the same can be said for the modern renditions of the race, with EV racers regularly partaking in the festivities. Now, even EVs without drivers can take on the challenging hill climb, thanks to Unplugged Performance. Unplugged Performance Unplugged and UnmannedEVs have become a favorite among hill-climb racers, thanks to their instant torque and huge power. Since Pikes Peak follows the same format, the ultimate winner is the car that clocks the fastest time and, in most cases, breaks the current world record. Unplugged Performance, the leading aftermarket Tesla tuner, has competed at the race almost regularly, with campaigns running from 2020 to 2023. For all of those participations, Unplugged Performance tapped the services of American racing legend Randy Pobst, but for 2026, they're going for the unconventional by entering the first-ever autonomous Pikes Peak race car called the Goldmember. The name alludes exactly to where you think it does, and the car is based on the brand's purpose-built Cybercab robotaxi. Goldmember also takes the aggressive aero package last seen on the Dark Helmet racer; the tuner group raced up the mountain in 2023. The end result is an aggressive-looking, gold-finished, butterfly door race car. It just can't look the part; it actually has to perform. Unplugged Performance installed a tri-motor system that makes 1,020 hp and 1,050 ft-lb of torque. It has a 0-60 time of 1.5 seconds, which is on par with the quickest EVs on the market today. While the weight tips in at 4,200 pounds, the real headliner is the aero kit, which generates the same amount in downforce, essential to keeping the car on the road for the 19-mile hill climb. Unplugged Performance Milestone for MachinesAs mentioned, the Goldmember will be taking the hillclimb with nobody behind the wheel, a first for the event and certainly a challenge in itself. Unplugged Performance calls their software the Full Self-Driving: Hillclimb. This is a fully dedicated, purpose-built system based on the systems already in place on the Cybercab platform. The system will be tuned to take on the daunting task of 156 turns and an ascent of 5,000 feet. Unplugged Performance believes that autonomous racing is a natural testing ground for self-driving technology. The group claims that if the FSD system can tackle the task of Pikes Peak, the readiness argument for public use becomes more compelling. Unplugged Performance View the full article

There's a famous quote that says, "You don't have to be loud to be unforgettable." Well, the 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX didn't get the memo, and on static display at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, the way this Bloodshot Night Edition looks in person leaves no doubt that there's a monster of an engine under the hood, an impression that sticks with you even without hearing it rumble to life. The torn-effect graphics make it look like it just left the scene of a crime, which will leave easily overtaken traffic under no illusions about its potential. Considering a Ford Raptor R only makes 720 ponies, it'll fall into the category of passed traffic, too. The return of the SRT badge brings with it a 777-horsepower version of the famous 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI, and while the decals that stretch across the bulging bodywork and into the enormous nostril on the vented hood may seem a bit too obnoxious for some, for others, they're proud calling cards of the most ridiculous truck on the planet. 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX Bloodshot Night Edition Stands Tall Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Taking pride of place on the Ram stand with scarlet paint acting as a beacon, the TRX Bloodshot stands out among its less performance-focused brethren, finished in less aggressive shades like blue, white, and grey. It's wider and two inches taller than those other trucks and rides on 18-inch beadlock-capable wheels with 35-inch tires, all four of which are fed 680 lb-ft of torque through a reinforced eight-speed automatic transmission. Ram claims 0-60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, and with a bold red RAM script in the front grille, it looks ready to bully slower traffic out of the way—something it'll do on just about any surface. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Steel bumpers, composite fender flares, and enlarged exhaust tips all contribute to the menacing look while helping the truck be the best version of itself possible: an angry, whining dune basher with 11.8 inches of ground clearance and 13 and 14 inches of suspension travel front and rear, respectively. Thanks to Bilstein Black Hawk e2 dampers with secondary pistons, landing from a silly jump won't be an uncomfortable experience, but should it get stuck for some reason, bright red recovery hooks are easy to spot. And speaking of comfort, the interior is rather well-appointed for something that looks so extreme on the outside. 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX BNE Interior Is Sporty Luxury Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article With a mix of leather and suede with red contrast stitching and seatbelts, the cabin invites you to spend hours off-road, and while this certainly isn't on par with something like a Rolls-Royce, it's far from spartan in here. In the front, occupants can play with a huge 14.5-inch central touchscreen, and since it's vertically oriented, it doesn't feel overwhelming. Happily, there are a couple of physical knobs and buttons too. Those up front also benefit from heating, ventilating, and massaging seats, and those in the back don't miss out too much either, thanks to heating and reclining for their perches. A few metallic accents (including the shifter, center console, vent surrounds, and pedals) add a bit of brightness to the cabin, and the overall vibe inside is a balance of comfort and performance-focused utilitarianism. Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog It still feels like a truck, but the moment your butt hits the seat, you know it's a special truck that'll blow your hair back. We expect similar things from the "regular" 2027 1500 SRT TRX when it goes on sale in the second half of the year with a starting price of $99,995 before delivery. Hopefully, soaring destination fees will slow their rise by then. Related: Ram 1500 Celebrates 250 Years of America with New Special Editions View the full article

Nürburgring SupremacyIt has been over three years since the Mercedes-AMG One reset the benchmark for production cars at the 12.9-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife. That 6:29.050 lap still stands in its official category, even after its own improvement run in 2024. But Ford has now stepped in with something different. Instead of chasing that exact production-car record, it brought out the Ford GT Mk IV. The result is a 6:15.977 lap, a time that comfortably clears the AMG’s figure, albeit in a different class. A Lap Time That Sits Near the Very TopFrédéric Vervisch drove the GT Mk IV to a 6:15.977 lap, making it the third-fastest car ever around the Nordschleife, no matter the class. Only two machines sit ahead. One is the Porsche 919 Hybrid Evo with its long-standing 5:19.546. The other is the all-electric Volkswagen ID.R at 6:05.336. Both are purpose-built prototypes, and both lean on some form of electrification. What makes this result stand out is that the GT Mk IV relies solely on a twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, which pushes over 800 horsepower. There’s no hybrid system or electric help – just pure combustion power. Of note, the GT Mk IV is the quickest gas-only car to ever run the Nürburgring. More importantly, Ford is now the fastest American automaker around the Nürburgring, snatching the record from Chevrolet. Ford Why This Isn’t a Corvette FightSome might want to compare this to the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X and call it a Ford victory, but that matchup doesn’t really make sense. The GT Mk IV costs $1.7 million and is built for the track, not the road. It has a stretched chassis, a race gearbox, and only 67 will be made. This is more like a customer race car than anything you’d find in a dealership. The ZR1X is a different story. While both the Ford GT Mk IV and the Chevrolet ZR1X that lapped Green Hell were in the Prototype class, the latter’s distinction was purely a technicality (it’s not sold in Europe). However, the ZR1X that ran the track was very much a road-legal production vehicle, so comparing it with the Ford GT Mk IV would be comparing apples and lettuces. Ford’s real ZR1X challenger would be the Mustang GTD, and the company’s well aware of that. There have been hints about the GTD’s Nürburgring run, but nothing official yet, and even the video that claimed this has gone missing. Let’s see if there will be any announcement in the coming weeks. Ford View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Comeback Nissan Can’t Afford to MissNissan has been out of the rugged SUV game for a while, but the Xterra is finally making a comeback. It was a favorite among off-road fans before it left in 2015, and now, with more buyers looking for tough, go-anywhere SUVs, Nissan is returning to a segment it helped define. Nissan says the Xterra will land in 2028, but this isn’t just a throwback. The new model is aimed at the same crowd that shops the big names in off-road SUVs, and the real news is that buyers won’t be stuck with just one engine choice. Instead of picking one path, Nissan is giving the next Xterra two powertrain options. That’s important, since buyers are still divided between sticking with gas engines or trying out hybrids. Cole Attisha Using Adobe Photoshop, Gemini 3 Pro, and Midjourney 7.0 ICE First, Hybrid to FollowAccording to a report from Car and Driver, Nissan is taking a measured approach to electrification with the next Xterra. Speaking at the New York Auto Show, senior vice president Ponz Pandikuthira confirmed that a pure internal combustion version is part of the plan. “There will be a pure ICE,” Pandikuthira said, noting that it would likely feature a V6 rather than a downsized turbo-four, related to the 3.8-liter V6 currently used in the Frontier. From there, a hybrid variant would be developed off the same platform, although timing and specifics are still being worked out. Design-wise, the Xterra is expected to lean heavily into its rugged identity. Pandikuthira described an early mock-up as “super imposing,” with tough, upright styling. Unlike some modern SUVs that prioritize aerodynamics, Nissan is reportedly finding other ways to improve efficiency while keeping that blocky, trail-ready presence. Don’t expect a manual transmission this time, though. Nissan says they’re focusing on making the Xterra easier to use, especially for families and anyone who needs a practical SUV. Cole Attisha Using Adobe Photoshop, Gemini 3 Pro, and Midjourney 7.0 More SUVs on the HorizonThe Xterra is just the start. Nissan is working on more body-on-frame models, which means they’re getting serious about trucks and tough SUVs again. Dealers have seen previews of a whole family of new models, including a new Frontier and a Pathfinder built for more off-road use. Infiniti versions could also be in the mix, offering a more upscale spin on the same tough platform. If all goes as planned, the Xterra will be a key part of Nissan’s push to get back into the thick of the truck and SUV market. Right now, Nissan doesn’t have as many choices as its rivals, but that could change soon. So the Xterra isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s Nissan’s chance to prove it can still compete in a space it once owned, now with more models and more choices for buyers. Nissan Xterra Concept Art Cole Attisha Using Adobe Photoshop, Gemini 3 Pro, and Midjourney 7.0 View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A late-season winter storm is delivering a punishing mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain across Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula, prompting Ice Storm Warnings, Winter Storm Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories from multiple National Weather Service offices. The Weather Prediction Center is tracking the system as the first of back-to-back significant late-season storms, with ice accumulations up to 0.4 inches, snow totals reaching 4 inches in the Keweenaw Peninsula and wind gusts hitting 40 MPH. Hazardous conditions extend from I-94 in western Wisconsin north through the UP, with a second wave arriving Friday night ahead of Easter weekend. What to ExpectThe heaviest snow and sleet totals, 2 to 4 inches, are falling across the Keweenaw Peninsula and Houghton and Ontonagon counties, according to NWS Marquette. Baraga and Marquette counties are seeing 1 to 3 inches of snow and sleet combined with ice accumulations up to a quarter inch, while winds gust to 35 MPH. Farther south, ice is the dominant hazard. NWS Green Bay reports ice accumulations between 0.2 and 0.4 inches across central and north-central Wisconsin, including Marathon, Portage, Wood, Waupaca, Lincoln and Langlade counties, where Ice Storm Warnings are in effect. The NWS notes that this type of warning is rare in Wisconsin, typically issued only once every 4 to 5 years. Along I-94 in western Wisconsin, the NWS Twin Cities/Chanhassen office warns the greatest icing is forecast along and north of the interstate, with a quarter to nearly half an inch possible in isolated spots. Drivers on US-2 and US-41 through the UP should expect slippery, snow-covered surfaces through Friday morning. I-41 through the Fox Valley and I-43 along the Lake Michigan shore have been affected by freezing rain and sleet, reducing visibility and traction since early Thursday. Road ConditionsIcy roads have already turned fatal. At least one person died in a crash on I-43 in Wisconsin caused by icy conditions during the Thursday morning commute. The NWS is strongly discouraging travel across much of central and northern Wisconsin, where conditions are described as "nearly impossible" in Price County. Bridges and overpasses along I-41, US-141 and secondary roads through northern Wisconsin are especially treacherous because thin ice accumulations reduce stopping ability far more than drivers expect. Rural roads north of US-8 are at high risk for drifting sleet and localized ice buildup, reducing some stretches to single-lane travel. Check 511wi.gov for Wisconsin road conditions and Michigan's MI Drive for the UP before committing to any drive. Power Outages & the Second Wave Before EasterWe Energies and Wisconsin Public Service crews are already restoring outages from the first round of icing, and UPPCO has staged crews across the Upper Peninsula. The concern is what comes next. The Weather Prediction Center has confirmed a second system will arrive Friday night through Saturday morning, and NWS Marquette has issued Winter Storm Watches across nearly every UP county for this wave, with ice accumulations up to 0.4 inches possible. NWS Green Bay has posted Winter Storm Watches across northern Wisconsin as well. This second round of icing could be worse than the first in areas like Baraga and Marquette counties, where 0.2 to 0.4 inches of new ice would load onto lines and limbs already stressed by the initial storm. The timing, arriving Friday evening and persisting through Saturday morning, puts Easter weekend travel directly in its path for anyone heading north on I-41 or US-41. Winter Driving TipsIce is the most deceptive road hazard because it forms with no visible warning. Bridges and overpasses along I-41, I-43 and US-2 freeze before adjacent pavement, and even a tenth of an inch of accumulation makes stopping nearly impossible. All-wheel drive helps you get moving but does nothing to shorten braking distance on ice. Review best practices for driving in snow, ice and rain before heading into the warning area. With a second wave arriving Friday night before surfaces fully recover, fresh ice will form on top of treated roads, creating a compounding, layered hazard that catches even experienced winter drivers off guard. Check your tire pressure before heading out, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready and keep a fully stocked emergency kit in the car, including a phone charger and flashlight, especially with active power outages across the region. Drivers heading north for Easter are better off waiting until Saturday afternoon, when road crews will have had time to treat and conditions are expected to improve as temperatures climb above freezing. TimingThe first system exits early Friday morning. The second wave moves in on Friday evening and persists through Saturday morning before tapering off by midday Saturday. Overnight refreezing Saturday night remains a risk on untreated surfaces. For Easter Sunday travel, watch for icy patches on bridges and shaded stretches during the early morning hours, and check road conditions before heading out. View the full article

The 2026 New York Auto Show gives automakers a chance to show off the best they have on offer, especially American carmakers. Obviously, it was the perfect opportunity for Chevrolet to show off some futuristic hypercar concepts, the latest Corvette Grand Sport, as well as its fastest car on sale, the Corvette ZR1X. But instead of flaunting a mass-produced version of the ZR1X, Chevy exhibited a limited-edition version thereof, celebrating America's quarter-millennium birthday. Chevrolet’s 250-Year Tribute In Person Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog This Stars & Steel collection treats Chevrolet’s current lineup with a patriotic design pack to celebrate America's 250th birthday. The treatment spans multiple models, including the Silverado, Colorado, and Corvette, each featuring American flag-inspired decals and “250” markings. GM says it will donate $250 from every Stars & Steel vehicle sold to NPOs that support veterans and their families. While several examples, like this white Silverado, were present at the 2026 NY Auto Show, the blacked-out Corvette stole all of our attention. Limited to just 250 units across the Corvette range, this particular ZR1X, fitted with the Carbon Fiber Aero Package, shares a similar aesthetic to the $2.6 million example that sold at a Barrett-Jackson in January this year. The Corvette That Stole Our Attention Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog The ZR1X displayed at the NY Auto Show had a stealthy look, finished in gloss black with carbon fiber wheels. Contrasting Satin silver striping runs from the trunk to the hood, with some stars, too. Some splashes of red appear on the brake calipers and on the edges of the gargantuan rear wing to commemorate America's 250th birthday. Inside, the theme follows the red palette, but is much less subtle. Also on display was the Chevy Corvette ZR1X's powertrain: a 1,064 hp twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V8, dubbed the LT7. With help from an electric motor, the ZR1X has a combined 1,250 hp at its fingertips. In the real world, that allows the all-wheel-drive ZR1X to achieve a 0 to 60 mph time of just 1.68 seconds, making it the quickest production car in the world. Nearing The End Of The C8 Corvette Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog A few days ago, GM confirmed the Grand Sport will be the last C8 Corvette model. While limited-run variants that focus on bespoke aesthetic upgrades like this Stars & Steel example will continue to exist, no core models will be added to the Corvette lineup. Knowing this makes witnessing one of the rarest C8 specifications in the flesh just all the more special. View the full article

The biggest news at the 2026 New York International Auto Show was, without a doubt, the new Hyundai Boulder concept, an off-road, body-on-frame SUV that previews the Korean automaker's plans for the rest of the decade. Yes, this may just be a concept for now, but Hyundai intends to launch several products drawing influence from this concept by 2030, and since we were present at the launch, we got a good look at the Boulder from every angle. Unfortunately, Hyundai hasn't given us any idea of what to expect in the cabin, but that's okay; there's plenty to dissect. Boulder Concept Keeps Hyundai's Promise Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog For some time now, Hyundai has been hinting at a Tacoma rival that will be far more rugged than the Santa Cruz, its only current pickup, and the Boulder concept realizes that ambition, ditching the rounded edges and toy-like look of the Crater concept we saw in November last year. Like that vehicle, the rear doors are reverse-hinged, allowing the glasshouse to flow neatly from front to back. Above the side windows, portal windows that have more than a little Defender flavor show that Hyundai has drawn inspiration from several sources. The angular, oversized fenders and the markers ahead of the taillights also appear to be influenced by the classic British off-roader, while the wraparound rear window reminds one of the Toyota FJ Cruiser. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article From the front, the large slotted grille seems like a mix of Jeep and Ford styling, while prominent tow hook receptors and short overhangs hint at serious off-road capability. Dead on, the wing mirrors call to mind a Ford Super Duty truck, and at the rear, more tow hooks and an externally mounted spare wheel, coupled with vertically stacked taillights that match the headlights, put this SUV in the same aesthetic family as the Wrangler and Bronco. Like a G-Wagen, the rear opening is a swing-gate. With a short wheelbase, lofty ride height, and chunky 37-inch rubber, the design seems like a great basis for a pickup, and one is expected to arrive by 2030. Expect Changes for Hyundai Boulder's Production Design Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog We expect tow hooks, short overhangs, the external spare wheel, and the side steps to arrive on the production vehicle, along with the roof rack and potentially the small windows above the glasshouse. However, the aggressive bodywork may be toned down considerably, with less bulbous fenders and almost certainly traditional door openings—creating a rigid body without a B-pillar can be quite cost-intensive. Nevertheless, the overall look manages to be unique despite its numerous inspirations, and when a production SUV based on the Boulder arrives, it will doubtless be similarly bold, six-hole lugs and all. Of course, convincing buyers that Hyundai can provide as good an off-road experience as its ultimate rivals (or even better) will take time, but if Hyundai pulls it off, this could be its greatest hit yet. That's what we think from what we saw, anyway. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Familiar Name, Now Playing a Bigger GameThe Kia Seltos is a pretty important part of Kia’s US lineup. It’s one of the brand’s volume drivers, helping push record sales early this year. But until now, it’s also been one of the holdouts still relying purely on internal combustion. Adam Lynton/Autoblog That changes with the second-generation Seltos, which just debuted in North America at the New York International Auto Show. On paper, it looks like a standard update: bigger, wider, and with more tech. But seeing it up close, the changes feel more significant. In photos, it looks like a smaller Telluride. But in person, the design and proportions are closer to the EV5. The stance is boxier and more upright, with surfaces that feel more structured. It’s still a Seltos, but it’s clearly trying to grow into something bigger than its segment suggests. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article EV5 Meets Telluride, Then Adds AttitudeUp front, the design lands somewhere between the EV5 and the Telluride. Think of it as two cousins spending a lot of time together and slowly starting to look alike. The upright face and squared-off proportions come from the EV5, while the vertical lighting and wide grille are clear Telluride cues. The amber DRLs are designed to frame the front and add presence, which stands out for a subcompact crossover. From the side, the longer wheelbase stands out. The tall glass area and clean shoulder line give it a straightforward look. Black cladding and geometric surfaces add a bit of ruggedness, while flush door handles and a contrasting roof keep the design simple. At the rear, the design is simple but modern. The full-width light bar ties the look together, and the vertical elements match the front. It all fits together without trying to stand out. Inside, the same approach carries over. The dashboard is wide and simple, with two 12.3-inch displays and an optional climate screen. The column shifter opens up more space, and the layout feels more open than before. It is functional, but the design avoids feeling generic. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Three Powertrains to Choose FromThe main change underneath is the range of options. The new Seltos is the only model in its segment with three different powertrains. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine returns, paired with an IVT and optional AWD. There is also a 1.6-liter turbo with about 190 horsepower, now matched to an 8-speed automatic and standard AWD in the X-Line trim. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Then there’s the new addition: a 1.6-liter hybrid. It brings a dual-clutch transmission and, more interestingly, an available electric AWD setup. Full details are still under wraps, but it’s clearly meant to widen the Seltos’ appeal beyond just entry-level buyers. Capability improves as well. Ground clearance is now up to 8.1 inches, and the new multi-terrain AWD mode shows Kia wants this model to handle beyond city roads. The pure ICE models will hit showrooms soon enough, expected within the next three months. The hybrid, however, is coming later. Pricing hasn't been announced yet, but with more features, it's likely more expensive. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Stars and Stripes Spec SheetThe 2026 Dodge Durango GT America250 is a rolling tribute timed to coincide with the United States’ 250th anniversary, and we finally see it in the metal after being unveiled at the New York International Auto Show. It is not a clean-sheet redesign, but a thematic special edition layered onto the existing Durango GT – one that leans heavily into Americana, both visually and philosophically. Dodge positions it as a celebration of “power, heritage, and patriotic grit,” tying into initiatives around America250.org and the broader national milestone. This matters because the Durango itself is one of the last old-school body-on-frame-adjacent, V8-centric family SUVs still holding the line. In an era increasingly defined by electrification and downsizing, the America250 package reframes the Durango as something more symbolic: a three-row SUV that doubles as a cultural statement. The timing is deliberate – arriving as the U.S. approaches its semiquincentennial, with Dodge leaning into identity as much as product. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Red, White, and Horsepower:Underneath the stars-and-stripes treatment, the Durango GT America250 sticks to familiar mechanicals, but with an important, and most importantly, American twist: choice. Buyers can spec either the tried-and-true 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 making 295 horsepower, or step up to the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 360 horsepower. Both are paired with all-wheel drive across three trims: GT Plus, GT HEMI Plus, and GT HEMI Premium. The differences between trims are mostly about content rather than outright performance. The GT Plus is the entry point, while HEMI variants unlock the V8 and options like the Tow N Go package, which pushes towing capacity up to 8,700 pounds. The Premium trim layers on convenience and luxury features. Compared to a standard Durango GT, the America250 isn’t about new hardware, but about elevating the GT with features typically reserved for higher trims, particularly inside. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Born in the USAOn the show floor, the America250 package is immediately recognizable. The exterior leans into theatrical patriotism with its star-pattern dual stripes with blue tracer accents, America250 badging, and 20-inch Black Noise wheels. The stripes are particularly striking on White Knuckle paint, where the motif reads like a modern reinterpretation of classic muscle car graphics. Inside is where this edition genuinely differentiates itself. Black Laguna leather seats with blue perforation, embossed American flags, red-and-white stitching, and even a tricolor steering wheel create a cabin that feels more bespoke than typical GT trims. There is also forged carbon fiber trim and red seat belts, all details that push it closer to SRT-adjacent territory in vibe, if not outright performance. In motion, expect it to behave like any other Durango GT. That means a soft but controlled ride, a heavy steering feel, and a sense of mass that never fully disappears. The V6 is adequate, but the V8 is the one that fits the personality to a tee, torquey, loud when pushed, and unmistakably old-school. The America250 doesn’t change the driving dynamics; it reframes them with context and attitude. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The LowdownThe Durango GT America250 is not about innovation. It is about affirmation. At a time when being “American” in the automotive sense feels diluted. With global platforms, shared drivetrains, electrification mandates, this SUV doubles down on a specific identity of having a big engine, bold styling, and unapologetic character. There is something calculated about its timing. As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, Dodge is offering a vehicle that feels like a morale boost on wheels. The regular Dodge Durango is already one of the most affordable entry points into V8 muscle, starting just under $50,000, and still delivers the kind of muscle-infused practicality few rivals attempt anymore. In that sense, the America250 is less a special edition and more a reminder: for all the industry’s change, there is still space for loud, proud, distinctly American machines. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 1 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Legend Forged in Sand: Porsche 959 Paris-DakarThe Porsche 959 Paris-Dakar is not just another homologation special. It is one of the most ambitious off-road experiments ever undertaken by Porsche. Built to conquer the Paris-Dakar Rally, the 959 redefined what a supercar could be. Twin turbocharging, advanced all-wheel drive, and adjustable ride height made it a technological leap. When it won in 1986, it validated years of engineering risk. That influence still echoes today. The Porsche 911 Dakar draws directly from this lineage. It proves that Porsche still values off-road capability in unexpected forms. Yet the original 959 Paris-Dakar remains unmatched. It combined durability and innovation in a way few vehicles have since. That dual identity makes its preservation far more complex than a typical restoration. Preservation Over ReinventionThe work was led by Porsche Heritage and Museum with support from Porsche Classic and documented in the video above. The goal was preservation, not reinvention. Every step followed a strict philosophy. Maintain originality wherever possible. This was not a cosmetic rebuild. It was a controlled recommissioning rooted in historical accuracy. Initial inspections revealed strong structural integrity. The fiberglass-reinforced underbody protection remained intact. Axles and suspension components showed minimal wear. Even after extreme rally use, the core structure held up. Surface rust was present in uncoated areas, but it was stabilized rather than removed to preserve authenticity. YouTube/@TheFrame View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Engineering Under the Skin: Mechanical ResurrectionThe drivetrain required the most intensive work. The 2.85-liter (174 cubic-inch) twin-turbo flat-six was removed with the gearbox for a full overhaul. Despite roughly 11,200 miles of hard use, internal components remained in excellent condition. The crankshaft showed no significant damage. This level of durability highlights the over-engineering behind the 959 program. Worn items were replaced with care. Bearings, seals, and piston rings were updated using improved materials. Molybdenum-coated rings enhanced durability without changing the engine’s character. The rear axle assembly was disassembled and refurbished. Its fixed driveshaft layout contrasts with the electronically controlled front differential. Wiring, cooling systems, and braking components were restored to full functionality. YouTube/@TheFrame View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Restoration at its PurestThis project succeeds because of restraint. Porsche avoided over-restoration. Patina was preserved. Even traces of rally dust remained on select components. These details matter. They connect the car directly to its competition history and lend it the credibility a fully refinished example would lack. From my standpoint, this is the correct approach. Mechanical reliability was restored without erasing identity. The balance is precise and deliberate. The result feels authentic and usable. The 959 Paris-Dakar stands as more than a restored vehicle. It remains a living piece of motorsport history, ready to tell its story without filters. YouTube/@TheFrame View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The EV federal tax credit has been dead for many months now, but a new discount offered by Honda for the Prologue electric SUV makes it feel like it never went away. The automaker has slashed the price of the 2026 Prologue by $7,500, which was the maximum amount EV buyers used to get as a tax credit. The discount is available across all trims, making the 2026 Prologue much better value for customers. It Starts at Just Under $40,000 After the Price Cut A Honda spokesperson told InsideEVs that the company slashed the Prologue’s pricing “to better align with the needs of our customers and market conditions, as well as our long-term strategic goals.” The representative added that the EV market “has softened considerably” after the loss of the federal EV tax credit, which created uncertainty for buyers. With the $7,500 discount factored in, the base 2026 Honda Prologue EX now officially starts below $40,000—$39,900 to be exact (before a $1,495 destination charge). That seems like a pretty good deal considering the exact same vehicle used to cost $47,400; the Prologue EX AWD starts at $42,000. Cole Attisha Moving up in the range, the 2026 Prologue Touring 2WD now starts at $44,200, while the AWD version is priced from $47,000. As for the range-topping, AWD-only 2026 Prologue Elite, it’s priced at $50,400. Honda's midsize SUV has GM Ultium underpinnings, including the single motor front-wheel-drive powertrain rated at 220 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. Power comes from an 85-kWh Ultium lithium-ion battery pack that enables a EPA-estimated driving range of up to 308 miles; dual-motor AWD variants, which have 300 hp and 355 lb-ft of torque, offer 294 miles of range from the same 85-kWh pack. Only the fully loaded Elite trim, which also runs bigger 21-inch wheels, has a lower range of 283 miles. You Get a Lot of Electric SUV for $39,900 Cole Attisha As far as standard equipment goes, the Prologue EX is good bang for the buck. It comes with 19-inch alloys, LED headlights with auto high beam function, heated side mirrors, heated front seats, 10-way power-adjustable driver seat with power lumber support, 60/40 split rear seats, dual zone climate control, and push button start. On the tech front, it gets an 11.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by the Google built-in OS, an 11-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, wireless phone charger, Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Bluetooth streaming audio, HondaLink connected by OnStar, and USB ports at the front, on the center console and in the second-row seats. Cole Attisha As for safety, the 2026 Prologue EX comes standard with the Honda Sensing suite that includes advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot steering assist, and rear cross-traffic braking. With the new discount, the 2026 Honda Prologue has a lower base price as a Toyota bZ Limited, which is a smaller vehicle with less range (299 miles). The Prologue is good value when compared to its direct competitors as well, including the $39,800 Hyundai Ioniq 5 SEL, $39,900 Tesla Model Y and its platform sibling, the $44,700 Chevy Blazer EV LT. View the full article

Volkswagen is recalling 75,323 examples of the 2025 Jetta and 2025 Taos in the United States after confirming that a software error can cause the digital instrument cluster to go completely black while driving. Another 8,040 vehicles are affected in Canada, pushing the North American total past 83,000. The NHTSA recall filing, published March 25, 2026, under campaign number 26V185000, classifies the defect as a violation of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 101. That is the federal rule that says your car has to tell you how fast you are going. The cluster is supplied by Volkswagen de Mexico and installed at the Puebla assembly plant. The software fault can prevent the display from rendering at startup, or it can cause it to drop out entirely mid-drive. There is no partial failure here, no fallback mode where you keep a speedometer but lose the fuel gauge. The entire screen goes dark. Speed, fuel level, engine temperature, brake alerts, check engine light: all gone. The car itself keeps running normally you just have no data to understand what is going on. Every affected vehicle was built at Puebla, with all VINs starting with the number 3. The 2025 Volkswagen Jetta production window runs September 23, 2024, through July 1, 2025. For the 2025 Volkswagen Taos, the dates span November 6, 2024, to June 20, 2025. VW says it identified and corrected the fault in production during the week of August 11, 2025, so anything built after that should be clear. What Owners Need To DoIf you drive a 2025 Jetta or Taos, check your VIN at NHTSA.gov or through Volkswagen's own recall page at vw.com. Affected VINs have been searchable since March 22. Official notification letters are not expected until May 22, 2026, nearly two months after dealers were notified on March 27. So don't wait for that and get the issue handled promptly. No Over-The-Air FixThis is not a recall that resolves itself with a remote software download to your driveway. Dealers will apply the update through the OBD-II port using a specialized VW diagnostic tool, and if that does not resolve the issue, the entire instrument cluster gets replaced. Both remedies are free of charge. Volkswagen This Recall Hits VW Where It HurtsThe Jetta sold 54,291 units in the U.S. last year. The Taos sold 55,198. Starting prices of $23,995 and $26,500 make them the two cheapest ways into a new Volkswagen, and combined they account for more American sales than any other models in the lineup. When a recall lands on both at once, it is not something VW can quietly deal with in the background. And this is familiar territory. Back in 2019, VW recalled about 73,500 examples of the Atlas, Tiguan, and Jetta for a different electrical fault in the instrument cluster. Different cars, different era, same component. This should raise questions about how VW validates the thing drivers stare at every time they get behind the wheel. A dark dashboard at highway speed is not the kind of surprise anyone needs. View the full article

A One-Car Brand, Still Holding the LineIt’s still a bit surreal that Chrysler is effectively a one-model operation. And that one model, the Chrysler Pacifica, happens to be a minivan. Not exactly the most glamorous segment, but it’s been doing the heavy lifting for years – and doing it well. It even topped its segment in 2025, which says a lot about how well-rounded the package still is. Chrysler keeps hinting at a bigger comeback, but for now, the 2027 update is what keeps the lights on. We saw it at the New York International Auto Show, and it’s clear that the updated Pacifica looks fresher in the metal than it does in press images. There’s more presence, even if the basics haven’t changed – at least until you slide open the doors. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Looks Sharper, Feels Newer – Until You Step InsideUp close, the 2027 Pacifica feels like the old model went through a futuristic lens. The shape is familiar, but the front end does all the talking. Slimmer lights run across the nose, and those vertical LEDs add a hint of attitude – almost like an EV. It’s not a concept car, but for a minivan, it gets closer than you’d think. The grille is now lower and wider, with a more detailed pattern that gives it some edge. Add in the smooth bodywork and new wheels, and the Pacifica ends up looking sleeker than you’d expect. The rear gets its own update with a full-width light bar, so it looks more up-to-date as you walk up. But from the side, it’s clear this is still the same Pacifica underneath. The profile hasn’t changed. Then you open the door – that’s where you must temper your expectations, like previously reported. The cabin is essentially unchanged from what we’ve seen since 2021. Same layout and overall design – except for the updated Chrysler emblem, which simplifies the previous graphic wing. It’s not a bad interior – it’s still practical, still intuitive – but next to that updated exterior, it feels like it’s lagging behind. The new color and trim options help a bit, especially that blue-toned upholstery with contrast piping. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Familiar underpinnings, small but useful updatesMechanically, nothing really changes – and that’s both reassuring and a little disappointing. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 carries over with 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft, paired to a nine-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive remains standard, with all-wheel drive still available, which continues to be one of its key advantages over rivals. There are a few useful updates elsewhere. The base LX now takes over from the old Voyager, which streamlines the lineup. Outside, you get a new wing badge, fresh wheel designs, and new colors like Olive Green. Headlights now reach farther, too. Inside, the changes are mostly about features. Safety tech now includes turn signal-activated camera views, and you get more flexibility with tech packages. You can pick things like Amazon Fire TV or premium audio without having to buy a bundle. Pricing starts at $41,495 and climbs past $58,000 for a loaded Pinnacle AWD. That puts the Pacifica right in the mix with the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival, though it’s not aiming for the bargain end. Seeing the 2027 Pacifica in person makes it look fresher than its age suggests. Step inside, though, and you remember just how long this minivan has been on the road. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The national average for diesel fuel on April 1 was $5.490 and that is a strain to NASCAR teams like Kaulig Racing who say it has taken a toll on its intended budget before the season began in February. The military conflict in Iran has led to a surge in prices and while it dropped to just over $5 on April 2 following a national address by the President of the United States offering that the ...Keep readingView the full article

The Big PictureThe 2027 Subaru Getaway is the brand’s first proper three-row electric SUV, unveiled at the New York International Auto Show, and we got the chance to see it in the metal. As Subaru’s most ambitious EV yet, it has the proportions to back that: it’s big, unapologetically family-focused, and clearly designed to replace the role of the Subaru Ascent in an electrified future, only now with far more power and tech baked in. This is Subaru leaning hard into electrification without abandoning its identity. Standard all-wheel drive, real ground clearance, and usable third-row space signal that the Getaway isn’t just another soft-roader EV. It’s positioned as a proper adventure-ready people mover that can haul seven and still sprint like a performance car. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article No STI Badge, but More PowerfulAt launch, the Getaway packs a dual-motor setup producing 420 horsepower, making it the most powerful production Subaru ever built. That translates to a claimed 0-60 mph time of under five seconds, Subaru territory that used to belong exclusively to icons like the Subaru WRX STI. It rides on a shared architecture co-developed with Toyota, reportedly related to the upcoming Highlander EV, rather than Subaru’s traditional Subaru Global Platform. A 95.8-kWh battery delivers over 300 miles of range, with 150 kW fast-charging capability and a native NACS port. A smaller 77-kWh battery option is expected later, but AWD remains standard across the board. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article An Unobnoxious Looking EV, SubaruThe Getaway looks like a natural evolution of Subaru’s rugged design language: chunky proportions, upright stance, and just enough futuristic surfacing to remind you it’s electric. It doesn’t chase the hyper-minimalist EV aesthetic that many EVs seem to adhere to. Instead, it feels familiar, almost reassuring, especially for buyers stepping out of an Outback or Ascent. Inside, you get true three-row usability, with available captain’s chairs, one-touch second-row access, and a power-folding third row. Subaru claims even six-foot passengers can fit across all rows, which we have found to be mostly true. And yes – it’s true. This is officially Subaru’s most powerful vehicle to date. Not a halo WRX. Not an STI. An electric family SUV. That shift says everything about where the brand is headed. The cabin mirrors that philosophy too: functional, spacious, tech-forward, but not overly flashy. Think durable materials, logical layout, and just enough digital integration to feel modern without alienating loyalists. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Not Meant for Track DaysSubaru didn’t build the Getaway to chase Nürburgring lap times or revive the STI badge. They built it to solve a very modern problem: how do you make a practical, family-ready EV without losing the brand’s core DNA? The answer is this. It’s quick, yes, but more importantly, it’s usable, capable, and thoughtfully engineered. It’s not a Subaru WRX. It’s not an STI, but it doesn’t need to be. For today’s value-obsessed buyer, someone who wants space, range, capability, and just enough performance, the Getaway might be Subaru’s most relevant vehicle in decades. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the full article

The 2026 New York International Auto Show is in full swing, and Nissan brought its recently revealed 2027 Z Nismo to the event, allowing us to get up close and personal with one of the last remaining manual sports car offerings on the market. Nissan is particularly proud of that six-speed fact, putting an H-pattern decal on the door of a red Z Nismo that was placed above its stand. Personally, I quite like the red paint on this model, as the red accents of a Nismo variant can be a bit garish and vulgar when they're placed on a contrasting-color car. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below. In the meantime, let's recap the Z Nismo and take a closer look at its bodywork and interior. 2027 Nissan Z Nismo Looks Even More Aggressive in the Metal Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article While we don't have anything bad to say about the official photography supplied with the Z Nismo's press release, it just looks so much bolder and more exciting in person. This is especially true at the front, where the chin spoiler looks much deeper and more aggressively slanted. It's also true of the doors and rocker panels, which seem to taper in a more obvious way. The rear is quite bulky, but a mass of gloss black paint helps to hide its size. As we noted above, the red accents on the gray model in these images are far less subtle, but to be fair, if you're buying the most hardcore version of a sports car, you may as well lean into it and make sure everyone around you knows you take performance seriously. Speaking of performance... 2027 Nissan Z Nismo Gets GT-R Brakes and More Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article One of the biggest changes to the 2027 Z Nismo is that the sports car now features two-piece iron-aluminum brake rotors, using learnings gained with the Nissan GT-R. These will be better at shedding heat and will improve the car's unsprung mass, saving a total of 19 pounds. Nissan retuned the suspension to account for this lower corner mass, and the steering rack was also fiddled with for sharper responses. Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog The other big change for 2027 is the addition of a six-speed manual transmission, and the gear lever is fairly tall, allowing a driver's hand to fall from the sueded steering wheel to the ball shifter more easily. A long accelerator pedal should make heel-and-toe downshifts easy, too, while the supportive red-accented Recaro seats add a little more GT-R flavor and combine with red contrast stitching nicely. Also red is the D-Mode switch ahead of the shifter, making it a cinch to switch between drive modes. It's a nice place to sit, and we hope to see buyers take to the track regularly. 2027 Nissan Z Nismo: Take a Peek Underneath Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article You almost never want to see the undercarriage of your car. If you do, it either means something is wrong and it's on a lift to be fixed, or you've had a crash and the rubber bits are facing the sky. Or maybe you're just performing an oil change. Regardless, it's a perspective not many usually see, so we snapped some pics. Of course, we'd have preferred it if Nissan had displayed the regular 2027 Z in its new Shinkai Green Pearl paint, but beggars can't be choosers, so take a closer look at the dual exhaust system that lets the Z Nismo's 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 produce its 420-horsepower/384-lb-ft output. Pricing for the new Z Nismo is yet to be announced, and the manual option will be scarce (which means expensive), but the rear-wheel-drive sports car will arrive at dealers this summer. View the full article

Say what you will about the US import tariffs on automobiles and their unpleasant effects on automakers and buyers alike, but the truth is they have been very successful so far in convincing (i.e. forcing) companies to invest in US manufacturing. The latest one to do so is Polestar, the EV maker majority-owned by China’s Geely, which has announced that it will consolidate US production of Polestar 3 electric SUVs at the Ridgeville, South Carolina plant operated by Volvo Cars (which is also owned by Geely). Polestar 3 EV Will Be Made Exclusively in the US for Global Markets Polestar This effectively means that the Polestar 3, which is also produced in Chengdu, China, will be made exclusively in the United States for global markets. Polestar 3 production at the Chinese plant, which started in early 2024, will soon come to an end. A Volvo Cars spokesperson told WardsAuto that the “the consolidation of global production of Polestar at Volvo Car Charleston is planned to take place from the fourth quarter of 2026, onwards.” In a press release, the Swedish automaker says the move further reinforces the strategic role of its US plant as a key manufacturing hub for Volvo Cars and Polestar. "The move to consolidate global Polestar 3 production in Charleston help generate efficiencies for both companies, whilst also underscoring our confidence in the plant and the role it plays in our manufacturing footprint,’ said Volvo Cars CEO Håkan Samuelsson. ‘The US is a very important market for Volvo Cars, both to support our growth ambitions as well as a strategic production site to meet regional and export demands.” Volvo The South Carolina plant already builds Polestar 3 EVs for the US market, as well as the EX90 electric SUV; both vehicles are built on Volvo Cars’ SPA2 platform. In addition to these EVs, Volvo will make the XC60 compact SUV at its South Carolina factory. The carmaker also plans to add a new, next-generation hybrid model to the production line of plant before 2030. The as-yet-unnamed model is designed to meet the specific demands of US buyers. Located outside Charleston, the Ridgeville plant currently has an installed production capacity of 150,000 cars per year, following investments totaling $1.3 billion in the last decade. Volvo Cars to Increase Its Polestar Stake to 19.9% James Ochoa Manufacturing announcement aside, Polestar and Volvo Cars had another update to share regarding a $274 million outstanding convertible loan from Volvo Cars that has been converted into Polestar equity. The transaction saw Volvo Cars increase its stake in Polestar from 9.8% to 19.9%. Mind you, the deal is expected to be followed by a previously announced $300 million debt-to-equity conversion by Geely Sweden Holdings AB, in which case Volvo Cars’ stake will be temporarily diluted. The Swedish carmaker will then carry out a second, smaller conversion of approximately $65 million to maintain its stake in Polestar to 19.9 percent. Volvo Cars said the initial conversion has taken effect on March 31, 2026, with the second smaller conversion set to follow during the second quarter 2026, provided that Geely Sweden Holdings AB’s conversion is completed. Volvo Cars’ total outstanding loan amounted to $1 billion, with maturity in 2028. After the two conversions will be complete, the remaining outstanding loan is estimated to amount to $661 million, with its maturity extended to December 2031. View the full article

Joe Gibbs Racing wants the Western District of North Carolina Court to compel Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports to immediately produce any documents related to deleted text messages to each other but also a third-party subpoena to get those deleted communications from the cell phone service providers. “The nature and significance of the irreparable harm JGR is experiencing cannot be ...Keep readingView the full article