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The Valhalla Sets the Tone for Aston MartinThe Aston Martin Valhalla marks a major turning point for the British marque. It sits below the Valkyrie but still targets the same rarefied air. A twin-turbo V8 paired with a plug-in hybrid system delivers more than 1,000 horsepower. The platform brings active aerodynamics and a focus on driver involvement. Aston Martin is using the Valhalla to reset expectations for what its performance cars can be. The car also showcases a willingness to adopt new technology in the service of engagement. Torque vectoring from the front electric motors sharpens turn-in and stability. The system mirrors ideas seen in advanced EV platforms. Aston Martin has signaled that future models may lean further into these solutions. The goal is not just speed. The goal is precision and feel under real driving conditions. Looks Good Coming or Going—Just as Fast, TooA curious issue emerged during development. The Valhalla does not use its dual clutch transmission for reverse. Instead, the front axle electric motors handle backward motion. That approach simplifies packaging and reduces mechanical complexity. It also introduced an unintended consequence. It turns out that giving a hypercar electric motors excites some people's intrusive thoughts. Those motors can drive the car forward at a very high speed. Early testing revealed they could do the same in reverse. That put the theoretical reverse speed near 87 mph. Engineers flagged the risk quickly. Controlling a hypercar at that speed while moving backward would be unpredictable. Aston Martin responded by limiting reverse speed electronically to 19 mph. The change brings the car back into a sane operating window. Somewhere, a lawyer finally unclenched. It's a Horsepower Arms RaceThe broader context makes this decision stand out. The Rimac Nevera set a reverse speed record at 171 mph. Manufacturers such as Koenigsegg and Bugatticontinue to chase top speed headlines. Electric entries like the Yangwang U9 are joining the push with extreme outputs. Crossing the 1,000-horsepower mark is now common in this segment. At this rate, even your grocery run might need a helmet. Aston Martin chose a different path on this specific issue. It was decided that capability alone does not justify real-world use. Limiting reverse to about 19 mph is a practical call. It reduces risk without affecting the core driving experience. In a segment defined by excess, this is a notable move. The Valhalla still delivers extreme performance where it matters. It simply avoids turning a novelty into a liability. Sometimes the bravest engineering decision is knowing when to ease off the throttle. View the full article

Rivian’s Inner Circle Goes FirstRivian is shifting from promises to real-world execution as the first Rivian R2 units begin internal deliveries. Software chief Wassym Bensaid confirmed in a reply to @RivianTrackr on X that employee handovers will start this month. Rivian is effectively turning its workforce into early adopters, giving the company a controlled environment to observe how the R2 behaves outside test labs. These are paid deliveries, not prototypes, which means the vehicles are production-spec. Think of it as a final systems check, just with employees acting as highly motivated beta testers who probably won’t complain about getting priority access. Yes🔥!! — Wassym Bensaid (@WassymBensaid) April 1, 2026 Beta Testing, But Make It Employee PerksRivian used the same phased delivery strategy with the Rivian R1T and Rivian R1S, and it worked. By prioritizing employees, the company gets rapid, high-quality feedback on everything from software glitches to user experience quirks. It’s essentially a real-world QA process before unleashing the product on thousands of customers who are far less forgiving. There’s also a production reality at play. Early builds are always limited, and ramping up takes time. Reports suggest that around 1,600 employees could receive R2 units in this initial release, aligning with a cautious scaling strategy. It’s enough volume to surface issues, but not enough to create a logistical nightmare if something needs fixing. In other words, Rivian is stress-testing the R2 without putting its brand reputation on the line, at least not yet. Rivian Wanting Something We Can HaveFor everyone not on Rivian’s payroll, the wait is nearly over. The company has repeatedly stated that customer deliveries will begin in the first half of 2026, and all indicators now point squarely at May. There’s even a possibility of a May 4 launch tie-in, yes, a not-so-subtle nod to Star Wars branding that Rivian has teased before. The timing couldn’t be more strategic. Rivian reported 10,365 deliveries in Q1 and is targeting up to 67,000 units for the year. The R2 is expected to play a major role in hitting those numbers, even if initial estimates suggest around 20,000 to 25,000 units in 2026. With gas prices climbing and EV hesitation fading, the R2 arrives as Rivian’s most accessible product yet. If the employee rollout goes smoothly, expect customer deliveries to ramp quickly—and for the R2 to do the heavy lifting in pushing Rivian closer to profitability. Rivian View the full article

General Motors has issued a stop-sale notice covering certain 2025 and 2026 Chevrolet Corvette C8s, and the reason is more frustrating than it is dramatic. The problem lies in the Rear Brake Light Outage Detection system, a module responsible for alerting drivers when a rear turn-signal lamp stops functioning. When this module misbehaves, the car simply stays quiet when a turn signal goes out, which means there's no warning light and no chime. GM has identified 2,886 affected units from the 2026 model year and 438 from 2025, bringing the total to roughly 3,300 cars. Dealers cannot deliver any of these until the issue is resolved. A fix currently exists only for 2026 models, in the form of a software flash or an over-the-air update. The 438 affected 2025 units are still waiting on a patch. Chevrolet A Small Bug With Surprisingly Big ConsequencesIt is easy to dismiss this as a minor inconvenience. The whole point of the outage detection system is to compensate for something that older cars relied on drivers to catch themselves. Most people never glance at their own rear lights while driving. That is precisely why the system exists. If a turn signal quietly dies and the car never flags it, you could be changing lanes for weeks with no indicator showing, completely unaware, and entirely liable. A traffic stop, a fine, or worse, a collision with a driver who had no idea you were turning. This is a distinctly modern-car problem. The Rear Brake Light Outage Detection system is designed to alert drivers when something is not working out back. Chevrolet The C8's Growing List of HeadachesThe C8 generation has seen a steady stream of regulatory attention since its debut. A voluntary recall was issued in 2025 covering certain Z06 and ZR1 models for a fire risk hazard, while dealers have had a handful of cars drop off lifts when in for service. None of these issues individually suggests the C8 is unreliable. What they do illustrate is the reality of building a deeply software-dependent sports car in an era where a lighting module and a calibration file can ground hundreds of vehicles overnight. The good news is that the fix is just a software update. The bad news is that it took a federal safety standard violation to make it happen. View the full article

The Price Barrier Is RealGeneral Motors sold 626,429 vehicles in the first quarter of 2026, down 9.7 percent from the same period last year. That was largely expected, given the rising average price of new vehicles in the U.S., which exceeded $50,000 in December 2025. Even an entry-level Chevrolet Silverado already starts at $36,900, excluding destination fees. However, the downward trend appears far from over. According to The Wall Street Journal, rising fuel prices driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could put further strain on sales. Some may argue it could instead strengthen the value proposition of electric vehicles, a segment in which GM is also competing aggressively. General Motors EVs Amid Higher Fuel CostsGM delivered 25,900 EVs in Q1 2026, a modest increase from Q4 2025, when the end of the $7,500 tax credit and a broader slowdown in EV adoption weighed on demand. With a lineup that spans more affordable models like the Chevrolet Bolt EV to high-end offerings such as the Cadillac Celestiq, GM remained the second-best-selling EV automaker behind Tesla. However, EVs still make up a relatively small share of its overall lineup, meaning any major disruption from rising fuel costs could still have a significant impact on the company. Analysts initially believed the industry would begin to recover in the coming months, but the conflict in the Middle East could change that outlook. A crisis like this could make more affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles more appealing, and GM does offer six Chevrolet and Buick models priced under $30,000. But unlike Toyota and Hyundai, GM lacks mass-market hybrids, a vehicle type that could be well positioned to gain traction if fuel prices continue to rise. Cadillac The Hybrid QuestionA plug-in hybrid from GM isn't expected anytime soon, even though PHEVs are often seen as a bridge to all-electric mobility. The company continues to invest in its internal-combustion portfolio, including the Gen6 small-block V8 used in the new 2027 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport. At the same time, it is expanding its EV efforts by backing initiatives such as the Ionna fast-charging network, which opened its 100th station last month. How this strategy will hold up heading into the second half of the year remains to be seen. For now, GM remains the U.S. market leader in Q1 2026, outselling Toyota by more than 57,000 vehicles, with Ford in third place. Buick View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Price of Mobility Is ChangingWith rising fuel prices, opting for fuel-efficient cars like the Honda Civic is starting to sound like a smart idea. For some, however, the shift goes even further. A report by Zag Daily suggests that some people are turning to shared e-bikes and e-scooters as a more practical and cheaper way to get around town. The report cites a study by micromobility operator Veo, which surveyed 2,200 riders across 60 U.S. markets. Among respondents who own or at least have access to a car, 68 percent said they had replaced some car trips with shared scooter or bike rides in the past 30 days because of higher gas prices. Meanwhile, about one-third (34 percent) have done so frequently. Acton Convenience Over CapacityIt is worth noting, however, that the study surveyed existing riders, meaning it does not necessarily represent a broader or more diverse U.S. population. Still, it highlights a practical solution, particularly for those making short trips frequently – whether commuting to work or quickly picking something up at the grocery store. It could also help users avoid parking fees, particularly in metered areas where costs can add up. After all, the average gas price across the U.S. is back at about $4 per gallon for the first time since 2022, according to the AAA. Filling a Ford F-150 to the brim now costs around $145, roughly $40 more than before, amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. There are fewer gas-guzzling vehicles to choose from, however, including the Toyota RAV4, which costs about $58.26 to fill up. Ford Electrification Picks Up InterestAnother practical option gaining attention is electrified vehicles, including both hybrids and fully electric cars. According to Edmunds data, consumer interest in these vehicles increased last month. It is still too early to say whether that interest will hold, but if concerns over rising fuel costs persist, it would not be surprising to see electrified vehicles become even more appealing in the market. For an even cheaper alternative, there is micromobility, though it is generally better suited for short-distance trips. Several automakers have explored the sector through investments in micromobility companies, while Honda is among the more notable brands to pursue an in-house solution, even offering an electric scooter called the Motocompacto. Mostafa Bassim/Anadolu via Getty Images View the full article

Ultimate Driving MachineBMW is widely regarded as one of the top automakers in the world, not just for making cars but for creating some of the best driving cars the world has ever seen. The latter is confirmed by the brand's mantra, calling each car the Ultimate Driving Machine. Most people tend to agree that BMW's new and old models are known as driver's cars. However, with an ever-changing world, a key element of pure driving bliss has slowly disappeared. The manual transmission is now seen as a purist's tool, reserved only for those who appreciate rowing through gears or engaging in Aryton Senna-esque heel-and-toe movements. BMW Still Pushing ManualsDespite the manual transmission's performance benefits, more brands are developing automatic and dual-clutch transmissions to meet the demands of spirited driving. BMW, though staying true to its philosophy by sticking with its six-speed manual. One reason is the strong customer demand to keep this option alive. Even as the M badge is now making its way to more EV models, BMW Blog reports that a top BMW executive said the three-pedal transmission will live on for the time being. Sylvia Neubauer, a Vice President of Customer, Brand, and Sales at the famed M division, says that engineers are still working to ensure that its manual remains relevant today. More specifically, the horsepower wars among brands give us some of the most powerful performance models, but the manual transmission is often unable to handle such power and torque, which is why BMW's M group is doing its best to ensure its version can handle it all. This is a trend we're seeing across the industry, where brands are offering manuals as special options, but some, like BMW, with the recent M2 CS, say that a manual can't tame all the power produced. That being said, it might be in BMW's interest to offer less powerful M cars with manuals in the future, since developing a manual capable of handling the power and torque would be more expensive. BMW Justified Expense?As good as the news is about BMW's commitment to manuals, at the end of the day, the company needs to be smart about its research and development costs. Currently, in the USA, BMW offers three models with a manual transmission, with the Z4 M40i offering it only as an add-on package called the Handschalter (Hand Shift). However, some of these models may soon become automatic only. Further reducing options for those who want to shift themselves. Nonetheless, BMW takes its image seriously and more often than not listens to customer feedback, so maybe a slew of manual M cars are on the way. View the full article

Not Just Another Corolla The world has gone mad obsessing over a two-door Corolla, and for good reason. Blame Japan for crafting one of the most perfect underdog stories ever written about a tofu delivery boy and his beat-up Panda Trueno, sticking it to pretty boys and their expensive toys. Also, you can blame brands like Tom's for keeping the hype alive and the fandom dreaming. Toyota's humble little AE86 was positioned as an entry-level sports coupe, whose lineage continues to this day thanks to the GT86 and GR86. It's crazy to think that a manga, anime, and a king were able to create such a fuss over this humble two-door. The lengths that Japanese tuner Tom's went to in order to get this Levin sorted are one for the books. "How much," you ask? Tom's has quoted a ¥16,500,000 estimate, or over $100,000, for the Tom's Heritage Toyota Corolla Levin AE86. For that, you get a car that's even better than brand new. If you had your own Corolla ¥13,200,000, which is still over $80,000. The catch is that these are estimates, and there's a chance Tom's can bill you more if it needs to do more to meet its standards. Tom's Better than New Tom's Heritage is a dedicated restoration program launched in the brand's 50th year, with the goal not only of repairing and preserving, but also of improving and modernizing. It's not just a paint job and some rust repair. Tom's went so far as to start from scratch, which means a bare chassis and a lot of work. This isn't a mere resto-mod. The Heritage program brings modern techniques to this over four-decade-old chassis while still retaining the sense of what it was in its original form. Everything from the body and interior to the engine of the car can and will be touched in this program. This essentially makes cars that go through the whole gamut work better than when they left the Toyota factory some forty years ago. Even the engine gets a modern touch of reliability. After years of developing, studying, and racing Toyota 4A-G engines, Tom's is able to build and tune the naturally aspirated 1.6-liter engine to achieve both durability and reliability. With modern techniques, parts, and knowledge, you can expect up to 192 horsepower. Apart from getting the base chassis to work properly, Tom's also goes the extra mile to recreate the original feel of the 86's interior through a meticulous material selection process that ensures authenticity and the feel of the original, while using new, modern materials that will stand up to performance demands. On top of that, you will notice things like the revived Tom's Igeta wheels that came straight out of the archives, with modern fitment options for this project and then some. Perhaps the most interesting improvement that the brand has made, however, is the undertray, which has been reworked to give this car an 80's look on top, but 21st-century aerodynamic stability underneath. Tom's The Program is Going Places What started out as a bare chassis at the Tokyo Auto Salon (TAS) in 2025 eventually became a complete car by TAS 2026. The first step in Tom's program was to show the initial step of its heritage program and showcase just how deep its restoration went. Now it's 2026, and the chassis we saw in 2025 has been completed and showcased earlier this year, attracting a lot of attention in the process. Being one of the most prolific Toyota tuners, it seemed like a natural next step for the brand to restore and improve upon heritage vehicles, and what better way to start than with the oldest and arguably most iconic model. Tom's is going to showcase its Heritage project. Apparently, this AE86 will go on tour to show the world what a Tom's restoration looks like. As such, the brand is looking to showcase it at its booths at upcoming auto shows, such as the 2026 Automobile Council. In 2025, we got a bare chassis. In 2026, it's a complete car. View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article Into the Future, for the Future An altruistic goal of the project is for Tom's to pass on its knowledge from its engineers and mechanics to the current generation. To further facilitate this endeavor, the brand has also uploaded its development documentary video to share the story of this project's development, starting from the shell it showcased back in 2025. The Tom's Heritage Toyota Corolla Levin AE86 will be displayed at the 2026 Automobile Council to be held at Makuhari Messe International Exhibition Hall, happening from April 10 to 12, 2026. View the full article

A New Factory, and a Bigger ChallengeLast August, Toyota announced it would build a new car factory near its home turf in Aichi Prefecture. This isn’t just another plant – it’s the first one it has built in Japan since 2012. The goal: keep churning out about 3 million vehicles a year from Japanese soil. The new plant is supposed to open in the early 2030s, and Toyota is calling it a 'plant of the future' – packed with new tech and built for a more diverse crew. That last bit isn’t just PR anymore; it’s quickly becoming a must-have. According to Nikkei Asia, Toyota simply won’t be able to keep this new factory running without a big boost from foreign workers. The problem is simple: there just aren’t enough people left in Japan to fill the jobs. Getty Images A Workforce that’s Rapidly ChangingRight now, about a million people work in Japan’s auto industry, but only 9% are foreigners. That’s already double what it was in 2008, but it’s still nowhere near enough. Experts say that by 2040, nearly three out of every ten auto workers in Japan will need to be from overseas just to keep building the same number of cars – about 8 million a year. If that doesn’t happen, Japan could lose the ability to make one in every four cars it builds today. The shift is already visible in places like Homi Danchi, a housing complex near Toyota’s headquarters, where roughly 60% of residents are foreign nationals. Many of them are employed across the automaker’s vast supply chain, which includes around 60,000 suppliers. Even Toyota’s closest partners are making changes. Toyota Industries, for example, is now bringing in foreign technical trainees to help on the factory floor. That says a lot about how tight the labor market has become. The stakes go beyond just car factories, according to the report. If auto production drops by 10%, Japan’s GDP could take a nearly 1% hit. That’s one reason Akio Toyoda keeps pushing to keep manufacturing jobs in Japan, even as the workforce changes. Luke Sharrett/Bloomberg via Getty Images Rethinking the Toyota WayLabor isn’t the only thing Toyota has to worry about. The company is also rethinking how it builds cars. CEO Koji Sato is telling suppliers to drop some of the old, nitpicky quality rules that drive up costs but don’t really matter to buyers. The new push, called Smart Standard Activity, is all about making production leaner and keeping Toyota in the game. What’s driving this? Chinese brands like BYD are changing the game. They move fast, focus on what’s good enough, and pack their cars with features at prices that leave traditional automakers scrambling to keep up. For years, everyone tried to copy Toyota’s playbook for precision and efficiency. Now, Toyota is the one making adjustments, borrowing a few pages from the new competition. It’s a quiet but important shift. MICHAEL MACOR/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images View the full article

What is Marcos?The British car industry is, or rather, was awash with plucky sports car manufacturers. Some prime examples include TVR, Westfield, and Lotus. The thing is, those marques seem to be constantly on the brink of bankruptcy, or have been resurrected more times than Lazarus with mixed results. Marcos is one of several who have seen many revivals over the decades. Established in 1959 by Jem Marsh and Frank Costin, it built several lightweight coupes and roadsters, along with pint-sized cars that would make a kei car blush. The original firm went into liquidation in 1972, but was revived in 1981, 2002, 2004, and most recently, in 2010. The attempted restarts in 2010 failed to materialize any production models, and the last models it sold were the Marcasite TS250 and TS500, which were axed in 2007. Marcos Nth Time's the CharmNearly 20 years since the last Marcos-badged vehicle was first built, the company is staging yet another comeback attempt. Now under new management (again), Marcos is in the process of shaking down its first all-new car in decades. Its return was announced about a year ago, but it actually looks like things have progressed nicely since then. The company calls it Project Mosquito, and, in its own words, it's 'a one-off evaluation vehicle, designed to test our in-house body, structure and systems integration capabilities.' It's constructed out of glass fiber, just like past models, and it uses components from BMW and Mini. Project MosquitoSpeaking to Car Magazine, current owner Howard Nash reckons the one-off model can be turned into a production model. 'There was never any intention of that, but the feedback has been extraordinary,' said the businessman. He intends to sell the Mosquito as a track-day special, something along the lines of what Caterham and Westfield have been doing for decades. The difference is, it's far from a Lotus-derived design. Instead, it's a modern interpretation of the Mini Marcos that was sold in the '70s. That car had its fair share of motorsport success back in the day, and the Mosquito aims to follow in its footsteps. So far, the Mosquito has stayed true to the Mini Marcos' ethos of offering a strong amount of power in a lightweight chassis and diminutive dimensions. Marcos Target LaunchMarcos plans to release its all-new model before the end of 2026. It's an ambitious target, for sure, but the company is determined to make good on its promise. The Mosquito is set to enter production as a limited-run track car, but a second model is underway already. It'll be another lightweight special, but it'll be a mid-engined sports car rather than a front-engined model. Nash says it doesn't have a body yet, but the rolling chassis has been undergoing tests. So far, the only details he's mentioned are that it'll have about 350 hp and weigh as light as 1,433 lbs. That should give it a pretty insane power-to-weight ratio of 538 hp per ton, which is about the same as a Bugatti Veyron. That said, Nash wants Marcos to be a (relatively) accessible brand. It won't be building 'bespoke' cars that will sell for millions; the marque's current owner believes its cars should be within reach for many to enjoy. Marcos Marcos View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Stretching ImaginationsWhen it comes to custom building trucks or rigs, the aftermarket scene is awash with examples, from the tastefully built all the way to the out-of-this-world creations. Most of these projects have the capability in mind, making them better able to traverse off-beaten paths or handle tricky situations. Some take that same philosophy and skew it in such a way that it becomes something entirely new. Someone put the time, effort, resources, and money into converting the heavy-duty Ford F-450 into a stretched limo trail machine. ebay View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Most Capable Limo EverEven more surprising is that this particular build was recently listed on eBay and was sold off quickly at an extremely high price. The truck in question is a 2020 Ford F-450 Platinum, the most plush version of the brand's Super Duty truck. As standard, it comes as a six-wheeler, two upfront, and four at the back. Since this is primarily a work truck, all wheels are powered for improved performance and traction. Power is delivered by a massive 6.7-liter V8 Turbo Diesel, making 475 hp and an earth-churning 1,050 ft-lb of torque. The transmission is a 10-speed automatic that drives the 4WD system. As a utilitarian truck, the F-450 has a towing capacity of 24,000 lbs and a payload capacity of 5,320 lbs. The owner then decides to stretch it and goes to an experienced company aptly called Stretch My Truck. This company has taken the brief so seriously that a boating license might be required to pilot this beast. As part of the modifications, the ladder-frame chassis and body were extended to accommodate the additional doors and the third row of seats. It can now seat 11 people, and even has an 8-foot bed at the back for loading stuff. Since this build was based on the Platinum variant, there are loads of standard features that were kept. However, a new infotainment system with a larger screen and more buttons was added for the rear passengers. Also added were power-adjustable second-row seats and more air-conditioning vents and units for the larger rear cabin area. ebay View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Beefed UpGetting it to stretched form is one thing, but actually keeping it upright and in working order is another. Its suspension system was reworked to offer independently adjustable ride height on each axle, allowing it to squat for easier riding and disembarkation. It also rides on a massive rim-and-tire combination totaling 46 inches, and, lastly, while the engine is the stock unit, the ECU was redone, and it now has a twin-turbo setup. No numbers were provided, but it should be significantly higher than the stock in order to move this truck. Despite the listed price and absurdity of the build, someone pulled the trigger on this project and is now the happy owner. Say what you want, but the build itself looks well-executed. ebay View the full article

Not Your Usual “Reverse Import”Toyota has already begun bringing some of its American-built models back to Japan. The Tundra and Highlander are now confirmed for the domestic market, and the Camry is likely next. It’s a slightly odd flow of products, called “reverse importing,” thanks to the trade pressures tied to US President Donald Trump. That approach might not be limited to Toyota models. There are signs that the Lexus TX is also headed for Japan, but not as a direct copy of the US version. Instead, Lexus seems to be adapting the TX specifically for Japanese buyers, which sets it apart from how the Highlander and Tundra were handled. Amos Kwon A Different Strategy, This TimeThe details come from Best Car, so take the news with a pinch of salt. Even so, the direction Lexus is taking with the TX is worth a closer look. Instead of importing the TX from the US, where it’s currently assembled, Lexus plans to build the Japanese-market version locally. This move means Lexus isn’t just testing the waters in Japan. Lexus already offers a wide range of vehicles in Japan, from SUVs and sedans to more specialized models like the stunningly luxurious LM minivan, which focuses on rear-seat comfort. The TX would fill the role of a traditional three-row SUV, but with an emphasis on space and refinement rather than off-road ability. More importantly, the TX remains a large vehicle by Japanese standards, with enough room to make its third row genuinely usable. That alone could give it a unique position in the market. Likely Specs and PositioningIf these reports are accurate, the Japanese TX will be quite different from its American counterpart. Rather than offering hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains, the version for Japan is expected to be fully electric, which fits with Lexus’ ongoing shift toward electrification at home. Initial specs suggest a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, a 74 kWh battery, and about 300 horsepower. Since it will be built in Japan, right-hand drive is a given. Pricing is said to start above 10 million yen, or around $62,600 when converted, which puts the TX squarely in the premium segment. That aligns with its global positioning, but the move to a full-electric setup could make it feel even more like a flagship family SUV than just a big people carrier. If the TX arrives in 2026 as expected, it will not be just a reverse import. Instead, it looks set to be a reimagined model for Japan, sharing the name but taking a different approach. Lexus View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

White Paint ProblemsIt seems that, in recent years, white paint has been causing a lot of headaches for many manufacturers. The exact cause varies by brand, but the end result has always been the same: a whole lot of flaking. Mind you, it's not just small chips that have been falling off cars, either. There have been reports of 'enveloped-sized' chunks flying off panels at highway speeds. We touched on that subject after Nissan and Toyota owners in Japan began coming forward about the matter. This time around, it's Honda, and it's not the first time, either. The Class Action LawsuitThe problem has been so big for Honda that a class action lawsuit was launched in 2024, but it was dismissed a year later. However, reports of paint flaking haven't subsided, and another class action lawsuit has been filed against Honda. Interestingly, the same judge who had dismissed the case actually advised the plaintiffs that they may file it again. Of course, Honda argued that re-filing it isn't valid because the statute of limitations has expired. However, the plaintiffs argued that the automaker had concealed the problem in the first place. The judge sided with the plaintiffs, which is why this lawsuit will move forward. Per Car Complaints, Judge Otis D. Wright II ruled in favor of the plaintiffs for this reason: "Accepting these allegations as true, the Court finds that Plaintiffs plausibly allege that the existence of the Paint Defect that could cause a vehicle’s paint to fail would have been material to a reasonable consumer." Acura The Affected ModelsThere are five models listed as suffering from paint defects. These are the 2014-2016 Acura MDX, 2013 Honda Odyssey, 2014-2015 Honda Pilot, 2015-2017 Honda Fit, and 2016-2018 Honda HR-V. For the MDX, it's White Diamond Pearl that has caused a lot of problems, while the Odyssey and Pilot painted in Taffeta White have been affected by peeling. As for the Fit and HR-V, it has been observed that those finished in White Orchid Pearl have been losing chunks of paint over the years. Honda did offer extended warranties for the models in question, but the plaintiffs are not satisfied with the solution. Honda View the full article

The Road Back to Le Mans Takes ShapeA report from Sportscar365 states that Ford remains on schedule with the development of its new hypercar ahead of its return to top-level endurance racing. Program manager Dan Sayers said the car is set to undergo its first track test in the third quarter of this year, with the vehicle still unnamed. What is known so far is that the car will use a 5.4-liter Coyote-based V8, though it differs significantly from the 5.0-liter version found in the Ford Mustang sold off the showroom floor. While rivals such as the Ferrari 499P use turbocharging, Ford’s hypercar will retain a naturally aspirated setup for reasons including reliability. After all, endurance racing demands not just power but also longevity, especially at events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ford Racing/YouTube No Room for DelaysSo far, the 5.4-liter NA V8 has been tested only on the dyno, with the hypercar itself expected to be built within the next three to four months, according to Sayers. Once the full car has been assembled, the car will undergo a week of debugging in the south of France before its first full track test. He added that the team is working to a strict timeline, as missing even one test would have a “huge knock-on“ effect. After a 30-hour test in Europe, the team will head to the U.S., where it will complete its testing program. One of the tracks under consideration is Sebring International Raceway, which is part of the schedule for IMSA SportsCar Championship, America’s premier endurance racing series. Speaking about the development program, Sayers said, “The difficulty is with a finite amount of time and a sensible mileage we need to get in, we’re trying to stage the tests with a good couple of weeks in between to allow us to do development, analysis, so it’s getting that compromise between enough time to move forward but not too long such that we get very few tests.” Ford Expanding Its Racing FootprintThis hypercar project is just one of several racing initiatives Ford has taken on in recent years. The Blue Oval launched the Ford Mustang GT3, marking a new era for the nameplate in global motorsports. It has also teamed up with the Red Bull Racing Formula 1 team as a technical partner, although the alliance appears to be off to a slow start in its inaugural 2026 season. For enthusiasts, these programs will not only give Ford fans something to cheer for on the track, but could also help improve the brand’s road-going cars through lessons and data gathered from top-level motorsport competition. View the full article

On September 4, 2024, two Colorado Department of Transportation workers, Trenton Umberger and Nathan "Nate" Jones, were struck and killed while standing outside their parked vehicle on a state highway near Grand Junction. They were doing their jobs. A passing car hit them both. Their names are now on a memorial list that CDOT updates every year. That list grew significantly in 2024. By November of that year, Colorado had recorded 28 work zone fatalities, a 75% jump from 2023, and more than the two prior years combined. Work zone crashes rose 53%. Speeding was the leading cause of fatal crashes statewide, contributing to 236 deaths over the course of the year, more than impaired driving and more than unbuckled-seatbelt crashes combined. Colorado had a problem. And a single-point speed camera was not going to solve it. A different kind of enforcementThe state's answer is the Automated Vehicle Identification System, or AVIS, a multi-camera setup that doesn't measure how fast you're going when you pass a camera. It measures how fast you traveled between two cameras. The math is simple: distance divided by time. Camera one records your entry. Camera two records your exit. If your average speed across that corridor comes out to 10 mph or more over the posted limit, a $75 civil penalty is mailed to the registered owner of the vehicle, no police stop required, and zero points on your license. The program launched on Colorado Highway 119, the "Diagonal Highway" between Longmont and Boulder, beginning with a warning period in July 2025 before live enforcement began. The legal foundation had been laid two years earlier, when the Colorado General Assembly passed Senate Bill 24-195, codifying the use of AVIS under Revised Statute 42-4-110.5. The data that prompted it was hard to look away from. During the CO 119 testing period alone, more than 16% of drivers were traveling 10 mph or more over the work zone speed limit. Over the past decade, Colorado work zones had seen 17,200 crashes and 121 fatalities. The Federal Highway Administration estimates that automated speed enforcement reduces crash-related injuries and deaths by 20 to 37%. Why Waze can't help you hereFor years, drivers have relied on navigation apps to flag speed cameras. The routine is familiar: the app alerts you, you ease off the gas, you pass the camera at a reasonable speed, and you're back up to pace within seconds. It works because fixed cameras are fixed points. AVIS removes that logic entirely. There is no single moment to perform for. The corridor itself is the enforcement zone, and your average speed across it is the only number that matters. Waze can flag that an AVIS zone is active, but it cannot tell you where to slow down, because the answer is the entire stretch of road between the two cameras. This technology is not new. The UK has used average-speed cameras on motorways for well over a decade. What is new is that it has arrived in the United States in a serious, expanding form. Colorado's early results are notable. Preliminary CDOT data shows nine work zone fatalities in 2025, down 70% from the 30 recorded in 2024. Work zone injuries also dropped nearly 8%, from 602 to 554. How the program is built to growCDOT has been deliberate about rollout. Every new AVIS corridor comes with at least 30 days of warnings before penalties begin. Signage must be posted at least 300 feet before entering an active zone. A public map on CDOT's website shows all active enforcement locations. The $75 penalty covers operational costs first, with any surplus directed toward pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure. Colorado Springs launched its own mobile AVIS units in October 2025. School zones and high-risk corridors beyond active construction sites are already on the expansion roadmap. There is a broader point worth sitting with: nearly 71% of Colorado drivers have admitted to speeding on highways at least some of the time, according to CDOT's 2025 Driver Behavior Report. That is not a fringe behavior. It is a majority one. And a AAA Colorado study found that traveling 80 mph instead of 75 mph over a 100-mile stretch saves, on average, about five minutes. The average driver gains roughly 26 seconds per day from speeding. Trenton Umberger and Nathan Jones were killed at the side of a road they were maintaining. The camera system that Colorado is building is, in part, a response to that. It is difficult to argue with the logic of it, even if the surveillance implications of average-speed enforcement at scale are worth watching closely as the program expands. For now, the old trick of lifting off near the camera no longer applies on certain Colorado roads. The entire road is watching. View the full article

BMW’s historic assembly plant in Munich, the company’s oldest in the world, is undergoing a massive transformation that will see it convert from an internal combustion engine plant to an all-electric one starting in 2027. The automaker has confirmed that the factory will start series production of the BMW i3 all-electric sedan from August 2026. This will mark the start of the rollout of the Neue Klasse within BMW Group’s global production network, the carmaker said in a press release. The BMW i3 Touring Will Also Be Made in Munich Theottle/YouTube The i3 sports sedan is the second model in the Neue Klasse range of dedicated EVs after the iX3 compact SUV, which is manufactured at the company’s plant Debrecen, Hungary. Pre-series production of the BMW i3 has already started in Munich in February, with the plant switching to final production cars for customers come August. But the i3 sedan won't be the only Neue Klasse model produced in Munich. BMW announced that the upcoming i3 Touring (the wagon body style) will also be made at the site. “The BMW i3 is just the beginning – several Neue Klasse models will be manufactured in Munich in the future, including the BMW i3 Touring,” said plant manager Peter Weber. BMW Group Over the past two years, BMW has invested over €650 million (approximately $750 million) to upgrade the Munich plant. As a result, the facility is said to be more efficient, flexible and digital, making it ideal for the requirements of the electric mobility and the Neue Klasse family. BMW Munich Plant Going All-In on EV Production From 2027 BMW Group From 2027, the Munich plant will build all-electric vehicles only, and that’s more than a symbolic shift. It will help the factory achieve a further boost in efficiency thanks to proactive planning, close collaboration with development teams and suppliers, as well as modern production technology. “We have considerably reduced production costs over recent years. With the start of production of the BMW i3, we will reduce overall production costs at the Munich plant by a further 10 per cent, bringing them below the level of the current vehicle generation,” said Peter Weber, Head of BMW Group Plant Munich. BMW Group What’s quite remarkable about the Munich plant is that even in the midst of this radical transformation, it is still churning out up to 1,000 ICE vehicles a day—mainly from the 3 Series and 4 Series lines for the European and US markets. The facility also builds the i4 and M3 for export worldwide. The Munich plant will be supplied with high-voltage Gen6 batteries from a facility in Irlbach‑Straßkirchen, around 90 minutes away, while the Gen6 motor for the BMW i3 is produced at the company’s plant in Steyr, Austria. BMW Group View the full article

The Joy Of ToysIt's important to make sure your brand stays relevant and recognizable. Automotive brands spend tons on marketing, and one aspect of that is collaboration. Toyota's upcoming supercar, the GR GT, is about to go racing in the form of the GR GT3. To hype up the car, they've gone for a special collaboration with two top brands. McDonald's iconic Happy Meals have brought joy to millions of children over the decades; the same can be said for Tomica, the die-cast brand that makes affordable models of popular cars. All three have come together in an epic collaboration. Dream MatchAnnounced a couple of days ago on the official Toyota Gazoo Racing YouTube page, the video shows two young boys. One is dressed in the traditional black, red, and white Toyota GR colors, and the other is wearing the iconic Golden Arches colors of yellow and red. The announcement video is a campaign teaser for an upcoming collaboration for a new Happy Meal set. The video also showcases two liveries for the GR GT3 cars that match each kid's color scheme: GR or McDonald's. Since this will be an ongoing campaign, the first drop is set to go live from April 10 to 23, 2026. Part of the first drop will be the Hino Firetruck, a Toyota TownAce Hamburger Car, Nissan Skyline Patrol Car, and the GR GT3. Starting April 24 to May 7, 2026, the next set of cars will be released as Happy Meal items. These include a Megaladon transport carrier, a Nissan Caravan Ambulance, a McDonald's Happy Meal Bus, and a secret toy. The secret toy silhouette is very similar to the GR GT3, and it might be the McDonald's livery, since the GR livery has already been announced on the website. Also, according to the site, the mechanics of the Happy Meal will likely be a blind-box type, where you won't know what you've got until you buy a meal and open the toy for yourself. Toyota Gazoo Racing More than GiveawaysWhile there will be a normal GR GT3 Tomica in the future, this special collab adds McDonald's stickers to the die-cast model, making it distinguishable and likely rarer than the official Tomica release of the GR GT3. Also part of the celebration, Toyota Gazoo Racing is inviting adults and children to participate in the special "GR GT3 Wrapping Design Contest." Each contestant can submit a dream design entry of the GR GT3 starting April 10, 2026. Those selected few with the best designs are set to receive another batch of special prizes. Sadly, as much as we'd all love the chance, this promo is exclusive to Japan so far. Toyota Gazoo Racing View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Infiniti Without Red SportIt’s been a while since Infiniti put out a model with real performance intent. The Red Sport badge once brought some spark to the lineup, but that faded after the Q50 bowed out in 2024. Lately, Infiniti’s crossovers have focused more on comfort than on getting your pulse up. That changes with the all-new Infiniti QX65. Seeing it at the New York International Auto Show, away from the polished press shots, it immediately felt different from the usual crossover crowd. There’s a sense of purpose in the way it sits and carries itself. There’s no Red Sport badge yet, but talk of a more powerful version is already picking up. After seeing the QX65 up close, it’s easy to see why. The platform feels ready for more, and a performance variant seems less like a rumor and more like the next logical move. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article More Presence, Less PredictabilityThe QX65 feels like it was shaped with a clearer goal in mind than recent Infiniti models. Photos make it look tidy and a bit reserved, but up close, there’s a stronger sense of attitude. The fastback shape isn’t just for show. It gives the QX65 a planted, almost rear-drive look, even though it’s not. The proportions call back to the original FX, with a long hood, a cabin set further back, and a wide, stable rear end. Up front, the grille and lighting have a layered, sculpted feel – detailed but not overdone. At the rear, the full-width light bar and a subtle spoiler pull the design together. It’s confident without trying too hard, especially with that gold-tinged Sunfire Red paint. Inside, there are still two screens, but they’re separated and easy to read, not just a single slab of glass. The cabin feels more focused on the driver than on becoming up to date with current tech trends. Materials on the higher trims lean into quiet luxury. Nothing stands out just for the sake of it, but everything feels like it was chosen for a reason. Even the audio system, with headrest speakers and personal sound zones, adds useful features instead of gimmicks. The new QX65 is not trying to be radical, but every choice feels more deliberate than you’d expect. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What Can We Expect from the Red SportFor now, the QX65 uses a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo four-cylinder with 268 horsepower, paired with a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. It does the job well, but it doesn’t stir much excitement yet. That could change soon. Reports point to a V6-powered version coming around 2027, likely with a version of Nissan’s 3.5-liter engine. With about 300 horsepower expected, the QX65 would have a much stronger performance base. That’s where a Red Sport version starts to make sense. In the past, Red Sport models weren’t just about more power – they brought sharper handling, bolder looks, and a different feel behind the wheel. If Infiniti follows that formula, the QX65 could finally live up to the promise of its design. Even better, Infiniti is said to be working on a QX80 Red Sport with serious power. If that happens, a smaller, sportier QX65 Red Sport could follow as a more attainable performance choice. Right now, the QX65 feels like it’s setting the stage. The design and proportions are in place. What’s left is for Infiniti to add the right hardware and show some intent to match the promise. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Dash cams have become a must-have accessory for many drivers seeking peace of mind, insurance security, and protection against fraudulent claims. A dash cam fitted to your car acts as an unbiased witness in the event of accidents, disputes, or vandalism, proving clear evidence for law enforcement. It can also be used to contest traffic tickets when you know you are not in the wrong. Automakers have realized this and have started to offer integrated or factory-approved, dealer-installed dash cams, with Tesla being the industry leader in this respect as it provides standard built-in recording on all models. A Do-It-All Dash Cam Rexing USA Now, if you car didn’t come with a built-in dash cam, the aftermarket offers plenty of options, from simple cameras to more sophisticated systems that incorporate various functions. If you’re looking for something from the latter category, Rexing USA, a manufacturer of dash cams, outdoor cameras and automotive accessories, has released a new model that’s a dash cam, a digital rearview mirror, a backup camera, and an ADAS suite—all rolled into one. The new M2 Max Pro has a two-channel camera system that features a 4K front-facing camera and a 1080P rear camera, along with an adjustable touchscreen rearview mirror, to provide 170-degree views from both the front and rear of the vehicle. The system is also said to offer full streaming capability thanks to built-in GPS and Wi-Fi systems. Best Buy The kit includes the rearview mirror integrating a forward-facing camera and an adjustable touchscreen, as well as the rear-facing camera, which can be mounted on the rear license plate. Rexing says the M2 Max Pro Mirror offers easy installation without the need for hard wiring into the vehicle. The touchscreen, for example, mounts directly onto the factory rearview mirror. The dash cam has automatic event detection, loop-recording capability, and 24/7 parking mode so it can document any issues encountered during driving or while the vehicle is parked. It Also Offers Some ADAS Functions Best Buy But that’s not all. The M2 Max Pro also offers several advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including blind spot detection, rear collision warning, lane change assist, lane departure warning, front collision warning, pedestrian alert, and a ‘Clear to Go’ alert that notifies the driver when the car ahead has moved forward at a traffic stop. Mind you, the front-facing ADAS features (like front collision warning) and rear-facing features (like blind spot detection) cannot be used simultaneously; the user must choose to activate one or the other in the settings. “The M2 Max Pro is a great upgrade from factory rearview cameras to give you and your passengers peace of mind,” said Luis Ledesma, marketing manager at Rexing USA. “Between the advanced ADAS systems, loop recording and motion detecting systems, it’s a great, easy upgrade for many cars built before rear-camera regulations came into effect.” The M2 Max Pro is priced at $199.99 on Best Buy, which is not cheap, but considering the things it can do, it’s worth considering by drivers of older cars who want a tech and safety upgrade. Best Buy View the full article

Golden AnniversaryThe year 1976 saw its fair share of significant car launches. There's the near-indestructible W123 Mercedes-Benz, the cool (but terribly-built) Rover SD1, and the Honda Accord. Over in Bavaria, that year saw the premiere of the E24 BMW 6 Series. The original 6 Series has the honor of being the longest-running model BMW has ever produced. The first cars rolled out in '76, and they were retired in 1989, a total of 13 years. For over a decade, the E24 has well and truly established its legacy as the company's premier grand tourer, proving itself on the road and on the track. BMW Before the 6 SeriesThe 6 Series succeeded the E9-based models collectively known as the Großes Coupe. Just before it was replaced by the 6 Series, the E9 already had a pretty legendary status. It was part of the revolutionary Neue Klasse lineup that included the 1500, 1800, and 2000, as well as the E3 (Bavaria/Großes Limousine) and E10 (02 models). The E9 was sleek, stylish, and on the race track, hugely successful. So, the 6 Series had a lot of weight on its fenders. Succeeding a much-loved model is never easy, especially one that had achieved legendary status even before its production had wrapped up. Thankfully, the 6 Series delivered and became a legend in its own right. BMW The BasisBy the '70s, BMW had begun renaming its vehicles into the 'Series' models we all know today. It started with the 5 Series in 1972, followed by the 3 Series in 1975. The E9 successor was called the 6 Series, likely because it was heavily based on the 5 Series. Indeed, a good chunk of the E24 was based on the E12, from its chassis, components, and mechanicals. It was then given its own unique design inside and out, penned by Paul Bracq. There was inspiration from the E9, as well as a couple of elements from the E12 5 Series and E21 3 Series, both of which were designed by Bracq. An interesting factoid about the 6 Series is that Bob Lutz (yes, THAT Bob Lutz) had input in the development of the E24. It was initially proposed that the E9 would be heavily updated instead of building a new model from the ground up. Lutz rejected that idea, leading to the coupe we know today. BMW Launch ModelsUpon its launch, the 6 Series was offered in two guises. The entry-level model was the 630CS, while the top version was the 633CSi. If you noticed the lack of an 'i' in the 630CS, that's because it came with a carbureted M30B30V engine that made 182 hp and 188 lb-ft. The 633CSi came with fuel injection and a slightly larger displacement (3.2 liters), bumping power up to 197 hp and 210 lb-ft. Four-speed manuals and three-speed automatics were the initial models, although a five-speed manual was introduced not long after. The U.S. model didn't get the 630CS; instead, it got an injected version dubbed the 630CSi, which became available for 1977. Either way, 630-badged 6 Series models didn't last long, as they were replaced by the 628CSi in mid-1978. BMW 635CSi: The Definitive 6 SeriesJust two years after its premiere, BMW introduced the 635CSi, the one that would, eventually, define the E24 6 Series and the most-sold version of the luxury coupe. Launched in 1978, it used a 3.5-liter M90 engine that was installed in the Euro-market 735i from the year prior, and was good for 215 hp and 224 lb-ft. For a few years, it was sold alongside the 633CSi, but perhaps it's no surprise that more opted for the 635CSi. It had more power and more torque for not much more money, and it was almost illogical to opt for a slightly lesser model when this engine option arrived. We're not disrespecting the 633CSi or anything, but we understand why most 6 Series models had the numbers 6, 3, and 5 slapped on the trunklid. A Major UpdateFor 1982, the 6 Series underwent a major overhaul, not just an exterior facelift or an interior update. Under the chassis, it received suspension components from the E28 5 Series, which debuted in 1981. The front struts were upgraded to double-link units, and the rear axle's trailing-arm setup received a pitman arm to keep camber levels consistent under hard driving. As for the exterior, the front bumpers were mildly reshaped, and the interior update came in the form of a slightly reworked dashboard. There were also changes under the hood, with the 633CSi being cut from the lineup and the 635CSi replacing its M90 engine with an M30. Power was unchanged as before, although some markets that required catalytic converters ended up with heavily detuned outputs. BMW The One to Get...If You Can Find OneBMW finally gave the 6 Series the M treatment in 1983 for the 1984 model year, seven years after the coupe's introduction. While not badged as an M6 in Europe, the M635CSi was a true M car in all but its name. Its engine, at least in Europe, was the M88/3, derived from the M1. That same lump would be installed in the E28 M5 in late 1984, and it was good for 282 hp and 251 lb-ft. Around this time, BMW began competing in the 6 Series in motorsports. Even though the race cars weren't called M635CSi, it was pretty clear that the M division put a lot of its know-how into those racers. It was instrumental in getting the driver's titles for Helmut Kelleners, Dieter Quester, and Roberto Ravaglia in the World Touring Car Championship, and it also found great success in Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. The M6 badge appeared in 1986, but only for U.S, Canadian, and Japanese-market M635CSi models. The rest of the world continued using the longer name and the M88/3 engine. However, those named M6 came with a detuned version of the M88/3 dubbed the S38B35. The emissions-compliance adjustments meant 'just' 256 hp and 243 lb-ft. That same engine would be applied to global versions in 1987. Whether it has the M88/3 or S38, the M6/M635CSi is a highly desirable model. But, if you ask us, we'd go for the pre-catalyzed version as it's the purest form of the hot 6 Series. BMW Unmatched LegacyAfter 86,216 cars, the E24 6 Series ended production in April 1989. While it was never a particularly big seller, it's still a highly regarded model that deserves to be called one of BMW's greatest hits. The revival models that followed didn't quite hit the same note as the original. There's no doubt that the E63 and F12 surpassed the E24 in terms of outright performance, but the first one is still the 6 Series that defines the name. No, we're not counting the 6 Series GT; that's frankly an affront to the car's lineage. But, rather than ending on a sour note, we're keeping our fingers crossed for a (proper) 6 Series revival down the line. We won't expect it immediately, of course, but one can hope it can come close to capturing some of the essence of the model launched 50 years ago. This is your cue to get started, Alpina. BMW BMW View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Gymkhana’s Latest Headliner Arrives in New YorkFor those who love cars, there’s nothing quite like Gymkhana. It exists in that space beyond daily driving, where car control becomes spectacle, and consequences feel optional. It’s the kind of thing you watch knowing full well you’d never attempt any of it yourself. The Subaru Brataroo 9500 Turbo is the newest headliner in the series, and it showed up at the New York International Auto Show. Seeing it in person is a different experience. It’s familiar, but not in the way a showroom car is. It’s more like finally seeing something you’ve only watched online. It has a real presence, not just because of how it looks, but because of what it stands for. This isn’t just another custom build. It’s part of a line of cars that shaped car culture for people who grew up watching early YouTube videos. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A BRAT that Looks Like It Escaped RealityUp close, the Brataroo looks like a classic Subaru BRAT that’s been turned up to eleven. The shape is still there, but every detail has been exaggerated. The widebody stance stands out right away. It sits low, with big arches that just manage to cover the motorsport wheels. The paintwork nods to classic Subaru colors, but the gradient and graphics make it look modern, almost like a concept car that made it to the real world. The aero is hard to miss. The front is packed with layers, louvers, and sharp edges that look built for function, not just for show. It has the kind of organized chaos you find in serious time-attack cars. At the back, it gets even wilder. The rear wing is huge, even compared to most race cars, and it sits high above what used to be the bed. The bed itself isn’t just for show anymore. It’s now a stripped-down extension of the cockpit, full of carbon fiber and exposed hardware built for racing. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Old-School Shell, Modern Gymkhana WeaponBeneath all the visual upgrades, the mechanicals are just as serious. The Brataroo runs a turbocharged 2.0-liter Subaru boxer engine, tuned for 670 horsepower and 680 lb-ft of torque, spinning up to 9,500 rpm (hence, the name). Power goes to all four wheels through a six-speed sequential gearbox, paired with proper racing differentials. It’s built to take abuse, which makes sense given what Gymkhana demands. Most of the body is carbon fiber, which keeps the weight down and lets the designers go more aggressive with the shape. The aero parts are functional. The front louvers can be adjusted to manage airflow and balance, and the rear wings can be swapped out for either more downforce or a looser setup. On paper, it sounds like an odd mix, but in person, it makes sense. The Brataroo isn’t a restoration or a restomod. It’s a new take that knows what made the original special, then pushes it way past what anyone expected. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Speed Camera That WaitsFor the longest time, apps like Waze available on Apple CarPlay have been used not only for navigation, but also to warn drivers about speed cameras – essentially prompting them to slow down or risk a ticket. That, however, may no longer be effective in certain parts of Colorado, as the state’s new automated vehicle identification systems (AVIS) base enforcement on a driver’s average speed. This type of enforcement under the Colorado Speed Enforcement program uses cameras at different points and calculates how long a vehicle takes to travel between them. It’s similar to the equation learned in school: speed equals distance over time. That became possible after lawmakers passed a 2023 state law allowing AVIS to be used for enforcement. Ford Where the System Is LiveThe latest section to come under surveillance is a stretch of I-25 just north of Denver, along with CO 119. Drivers who average 10 mph or more above the speed limit will receive a $75 ticket, though no penalty points will be added to their license. It is also worth noting that the ticket is issued to the vehicle's registered owner, not necessarily to the person driving at the time of the violation. That raises a broader concern seen in other camera-enforcement cases: whether the burden should instead fall on the government to identify the driver, rather than defaulting liability to the registered owner, as seen in a recent red-light case in Florida. For now, though, Colorado owners who may be affected by this type of average-speed enforcement should make sure anyone borrowing their vehicle is aware of it. Using cruise control could also be a stress-free way to navigate these monitored roads. Chevrolet The Push for Safer RoadsThe Colorado Department of Transportation maintained that the program is intended to protect lives, not punish drivers. The agency said speeding contributed to more than 36 percent of roadway fatalities over the past five years, and that 70 percent of Colorado drivers admitted to speeding on highways. It also cited the Federal Highway Administration, which says automated speed enforcement can reduce fatalities and injuries by 20 to 37 percent. Numbers may vary by state, as speed limits and road conditions differ. As such, approaches to enforcing speeding violations can also vary. Some proposals, however, are more aggressive – for example, in Illinois, where lawmakers have considered measures that would effectively limit how fast certain repeat offenders can drive. Tesla View the full article

Happy 30th, Expedition2026 is a big year for the Ford Expedition. The full-size SUV celebrates its 30th anniversary, and it was a model that the Blue Oval needed at the time. It was Ford's long-overdue rival to GM's full-size SUVs, and has been a steady seller since. The current success of the Expedition wouldn't have been possible if it hadn't hit the right notes in the first place. So, with this milestone, we reckon now would be a good time to take a look back at the first-generation Expedition. We dive into its development, history, and specifications, and see just how far this full-size SUV has come over the decades. Ford Before the ExpeditionPrior to the Expedition, Ford didn't have much of an answer to GM's large SUV lineup. Sure, there was the Bronco that went head-to-head with the Blazer, but it never had a four-door version. Granted, the Suburban was a much larger vehicle, but the fact remained that there was no Ford equivalent that could, at the very least, come close. There were the Ford Centurion C-150 and C-350, but those were conversion models and not official products. That response came in the form of the UN93 project. Plans for it started as early as 1991, a few years before it was even approved, but efforts came in full swing starting in 1993. It was designed to succeed the Bronco, and four doors were planned from the start. The Expedition was developed in parallel with the tenth-generation F-Series, which carried the project name PN96. Prior to its premiere, spy shots referred to the SUV as the four-door Bronco. Some publications at the time reckoned it would keep the Bronco name, but we all know what happened next. Ford The World PremiereThe Expedition broke cover on May 9, 1996, with production kicking off on July 22 that same year. It was formally launched on October 2, 1996, for the 1997 model year. It was great timing, too, as Chevrolet and GMC rolled out their versions of shortened Suburbans a year prior in the form of the Tahoe and Yukon, respectively. Ford had the perfect rebuttal for GM's twins. Upon launch, there were two trim levels available: XLT and Eddie Bauer. Both came in two- and four-wheel-drive guises, but had different engines under the hood. XLTs came with the 4.6-liter Triton V8, which was essentially the Modular V8 engine for truck applications. The Eddie Bauer, on the other hand, got the larger 5.4-liter engine as standard. The XLT made 215 hp and 290 lb-ft, while the Eddie Bauer put out 230 hp and 325 lb-ft. Ford An Odd VersionThis generation of the Expedition was also sold in the Philippines, which, later in its life cycle, had an odd specification. Initially, it mirrored the same models in the U.S., offered in either XLT or Eddie Bauer trims, though those were four-wheel-drive only. Those models were sold only from 1998 to 1999 because, by 2000, heavy taxes were levied on any imported SUV or MPV-like vehicle that didn't come with at least 10 seats. A well-known example of that was the '10-cheater' Honda CR-V. Ford Philippines' response to that? To be able to sell it for less, it had to get rid of four-wheel drive. It then came with a pair of jump seats in the cargo area, removing the forward-facing third-row seats to accommodate four people in the rearmost seats. Mind you, it wasn't comfortable as a ten-seater. Ask this writer how he knows. Ford Updates and the Model That Got AwayThe Expedition received an update in 1999, featuring a larger front grille, a reshaped front bumper, and new fog lights. Those engines also gained more power, with the 4.6-liter now making 240 hp and 291 lb-ft, and the 5.4-liter at 260 hp and 350 lb-ft. The 5.4-liter also received a new 4R100 transmission, although the 4.6-liter retained its 4R70W automatic. There was one version that we wish had come to fruition, but was unfortunately rejected. It was the Expedition SVT Thunder and featured the same 360-hp supercharged 5.4-liter from the F-150 SVT Lightning. The Thunder was supposed to be for the 2000 model year, but given the end of the first-generation Expedition's production just two years later, management said no. Following the 1999 facelift, the SUV received smaller updates, including option packages and a few interior and exterior tweaks. The final model year for the first-generation Expedition was 2002, with approximately 1.2 million sold worldwide in six years. It's still, by far, the most-sold version of the SUV, even after all these years. Ford Ford View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Not Your Average CamaroThe Chevrolet Camaro has gone through several iterations since its introduction in the late 1960s before being discontinued in 2024, but none compare to this MY2010 example listed on Bring a Trailer. That’s because this Camaro, dubbed “Turbinaro,” is powered by a Boeing T50 turboshaft engine said to be sourced from a military aircraft, complete with a dedicated overhead panel and an afterburner, effectively merging the worlds of aviation and automotive. However, it is far from a replacement for a daily driver. Based on the driving demo included in the listing, the operation appears extremely loud, while shifts from the TH350 three-speed automatic transmission with a full manual valve body seem notably jerky. Jet fuel is also less convenient to source than regular pump gas, and turboshaft engines tend to consume more fuel than piston engines, which could be a concern amid rising fuel prices. Bring A Trailer Carrying the Project ForwardFor those who see value in it, however, the appeal may lie in the sheer novelty and fun it offers. The build was initially started by Troy Mann, who worked on it for nine years before passing away in 2024. It was later acquired by Cleetus McFarland, also known as Garrett Mitchell, who reworked the Camaro and documented the process on his YouTube channel, which now has about 4.7 million subscribers. The current owner acquired the vehicle in February 2025 and installed several components to make it more manageable to drive, including a Flaming River rack-and-pinion steering rack and an electric noise suppression system. The fuel system was also synchronized and paired with larger overflow tanks and a revised air filter assembly. Other features include a two-tone finish with an orange perimeter stripe, 22-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Pirelli Scorpion Zero tires, four-wheel disc brakes with drilled rotors, a custom front fascia reminiscent of first-generation Camaros, dual-action doors, dual fuel cells, and a fire-suppression system. Bring A Trailer A Loud Listing Lands on the Auction BlockAs of this writing, bidding stands at $25,000, and the auction is set to end on April 9. The seller notes that the car has a Florida title and a Carfax report showing no accidents or other damage. While a factory jet-powered Chevy Camaro is unlikely anytime soon, reports suggest General Motors is still studying ways to bring back the nameplate in some form. Such a return would be notable as the U.S. policy environment has become less supportive of EV adoption, while rivals like Dodge are also rumored to be exploring a Hellcat-powered Charger comeback. Bring A Trailer View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Could be Better For every midsize truck enthusiast, there's probably a person or two who'll think it's too much or not enough. The makers of the outgoing Santa Cruz think that the midsize pickup truck segment is lacking in some key departments. Olabisi Boyle, Hyundai Motor America's vice president of product planning and mobility solutions, told The Drive that Hyundai has learned a lot from the compact Santa Cruz. In fact, those lessons will be on full display when the new Boulder Concept-based body-on-frame midsize Hyundai truck becomes available in the near future. Autoblog (AI-generated image) Have a (Better) Seat Whether you're looking at the Toyota Tacoma, Ford Ranger, or even the Nissan Frontier, midsize pickup trucks have one thing in common: their rear seats suck. Whether it's legroom, bolstering, or seat angle, getting into a comfortable seating position is a challenge in any midsize truck. Boyle stated, "Some certain things [buyers] like are interior comfort in all rows, not just the first row. And it might seem small, but it's important." A good majority of midsize pickup trucks are crew cab, meaning they seat up to five and can serve as an all-around family and work hauler. One such car that I've personally experienced that isn't available in the United States is the BYD Shark 6 DM-i. The rear seats offer crossover-like comfort for rear passengers, thanks to not-an-afterthought rear-passenger ergonomics and a bench with a bit of recline. That said, Hyundai may be fitting a rear bench that is actually livable in its upcoming midsize truck. Autoblog (AI-generated image) Fuel Economy As of now, fuel prices remain high, and consumers are feeling the burn. Fuel efficiency has since risen to the top of the list for many new car buyers, and hybrids and fully electric vehicles have been getting a bit more attention as of late. Hybrid pickups have entered the consumer sphere, and Hyundai has a wealth of powertrains to choose from to meet consumer wants and needs. In other parts of the world, Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) might be key to driving greater interest in the midsize pickup truck category. There are EREVs offering a range of up to or over 600 miles on a full tank and a full charge. Hyundai has fully-electric and hybrid-electric powertrains to pick from for its new midsize truck, "but the idea is to listen to the customer in this mid-size truck market, and do they care about efficiency over towing, over fuel economy," Boyle states. Each powertrain has its own pros and cons, and Hyundai can choose from hybrid, electric, and internal combustion systems for its new midsize truck. Boyle said that the brand is "fortunate enough to have that diversity of powertrain to decide which is best for that, but right now we haven't said which it's going to be." Hyundai Other Features Advanced driver-assist features are more or less standard on any top-of-the-line pickup truck nowadays, and Hyundai will be able to deliver on that as well. However, another key feature of the new Hyundai midsize will be buttons. Previously, Hyundai has made it clear on its stance with buttons, and we're going to see that in the new pickup truck. I'd just like to point out, however, that the new Ioniq 5 was caught with almost zero physical controls, so I'd still take things with a grain of salt at this point. Call me skeptical, judgmental, or whatever, but hopefully we see physical controls in the new truck. Boyle did reassure us with her statement, citing that "key things that you have to do repeatedly are going to stay manual knobs. They just are. You're just not in the game if you don't have the capability." In a nutshell, better rear passenger space, better fuel economy, and better ergonomics are what we can expect from the new Hyundai midsize pickup. The South Korean brand will face an uphill battle, as several competitors already have established nameplates. However, as some brands have proven, a good market disruptor can make all the difference, and healthy competition is always good for the end consumer. ND Adlen and AI View the full article

USDM to JDMIt's not surprising that automakers have specific models for each region or market they participate in. There's no sense selling a product that Japan wants, but the U.S. doesn't, which leads to USDM like the much-loved Murano SUV. Already in its fourth generation, the Murano has become a popular choice in the larger SUV market. It was also sold in Japan until 2015, but the 11-year absence is about to be broken. Nissan announced in March of 2026 that the Murano would return to Japanese dealerships in 2027, but as a U.S.-built import. Some people seem quite excited for the Murano's return, and Kuhl Racing, a Japanese tuning firm, has just released aftermarket support in anticipation. Kuhl Racing Japan Kuhl Makes Murano CoolNot wanting to waste any time, Kuhl Racing has already drawn up a potential build for a modified Murano. Never one to shy away from pushing the boundaries of builds, Kuhl's idea of a tuned Murano is to turn the big SUV into a low-riding street cruiser. This is evident from the renderings, and the low ride height will be made possible by the adjustable suspension setup. Reportedly, the ride height will drop by 2.4-2.8 inches, significantly lowering the Murano's height to sedan or even sports-car levels. Because the Murano is a relatively wide SUV, Kuhl believes it's a good platform for aggressive sporty builds. In fact, the company admits that it is considering developing a full aero kit to complement the current lowered renderings. Based on Kuhl's recent statements about the project, it's highly likely that the aero kit will feature a front splitter, rear diffuser, rear wing, and side skirts. Part of the design study includes adding aftermarket rims. Khul will be offering an array of forged aftermarket 21 or 22-inch rims. Specifically rims from Verz-Wheels in the form of the VRF01 seven-spoke design, or the KCV04 with ten spokes. Overall, the rendering in its current form makes Murano look sleeker and wagon-like. Kuhl Racing Japan Out Of This WorldCurrently, Kuhl offers the same type of aftermarket treatment for the Toyota Crown Estate, which is close in terms of size and class to the Murano. Mind you, these builds are nothing compared to Kuhl's more radical projects. During the recent edition of the Tokyo Auto Salon, Kuhl's Outroad project took center stage. This was a GR86 taking inspiration from the 911 Dakar, as a sports car for the beaten path. As a spin-off of that project, the GR86 Spec D was based on the Outroad but designed for the drift track rather than the dirt track. Kuhl Racing View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article