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A Different Playbook That’s Actually WorkingTesla usually prefers to do things differently, but in Japan, it’s following a more traditional playbook. Rather than sticking to online sales and a bare-bones showroom approach, the company is putting real effort into dealerships and face-to-face interaction – exactly how most Japanese buyers want to shop for cars. And that approach has been working, but it has also given rise to another problem the automaker needs to solve. Tesla is now set to double its own service network in Japan this year. Selling cars is one thing, but keeping owners happy after the fact is what really matters. Kent Nishimura/Getty Images Expansion Plans in PlaceRight now, Tesla runs 14 service centers in Japan, mostly in big cities. According to Nikkei Asia, the goal is to have more than 30 by year’s end – doubling the footprint in less than twelve months. These centers handle everything from inspections to routine maintenance and body repairs. Many of the new sites will be close to existing dealerships, making it easier for owners to get what they need in one stop. To accelerate the rollout, Tesla is reportedly using readily built properties that previously served as maintenance facilities. This allows the company to expand quickly without the higher costs and longer timelines associated with building new sites from scratch. Where it doesn’t make sense to run its own center, Tesla is teaming up with local auto shops. That network already gives owners access to over 50 service points across Japan, covering areas the company can’t reach directly. Beyond growth, Japan requires a first inspection three years after a car is registered, and a wave of Teslas is about to hit that mark. The need for easy service is about to get real. Tesla Sales Are Climbing, But So Are ExpectationsTesla’s sales in Japan jumped by about 90% last year, hitting roughly 10,600 units and beating its previous record. More dealerships and some well-timed discounts helped push those numbers up. The company increased its number of dealerships to roughly 30 by 2025, up from about 10 previously. That alone marks a significant shift in how Tesla engages with customers in the market. But growing this fast has its downsides. About 60% of Tesla Japan’s staff have been on the job less than six months. That kind of churn makes it tough to keep service quality steady as more owners come on board. That’s why the bigger service network matters. It’s not just about more locations – it’s about making ownership smoother as expectations for reliability and support continue to rise. Getty View the full article

Color Is Creeping Back InNeedless to say, most cars today tend to come in grayscale shades such as gray/silver, white, and black, a sharp contrast to eras like the 1950s, when American models like the Chevrolet Bel Air often wore far more vibrant paint jobs. Now, however, a report from Car and Driver suggests that colorful exterior finishes may be regaining popularity. Pantone Color Institute automotive expert Gloria Jover said the data show the color palette is “evolving rather than stagnating,” citing a two-percentage-point increase in recent years. She noted that buyers often choose colors like gray because they are seen as a “safe” choice for resale, with nearly 80% of American new-car buyers reportedly opting for such shades. That is a practical approach, though there appear to be other reasons these colors remain so popular. Ford Demand Shapes the PaletteMost cars leave the factory in grayscale shades, which then dominate dealer inventories and can often result in quicker turnaround times to customers than brighter colors that see less demand. Another factor is the added cost of choosing a different paint finish. In the Ford F-150, for example, neutral tones such as Oxford White, Iconic Silver Metallic, Carbonized Gray Metallic, and Agate Black Metallic are typically offered at no extra cost, while options such as Ruby Red Metallic and Antimatter Blue Metallic can add hundreds of dollars. While Jover suggested that colors like gray are often seen as a “safe” option, certain non-neutral finishes can also help some vehicles stand out and attract buyers. Last year, for instance, a 2014 Porsche Cayenne sold for a staggering $125,000, with its Jet Green Metallic finish standing out among its more distinctive features, alongside a manual gearbox. So it may ultimately depend on the model, though the idea of “safe” colors likely applies more to mainstream vehicles like the Toyota Camry. Joseph Rey Au The Colors of TomorrowSo which colors are gaining more traction? The report pointed to green, violet, and orange – shades that are loosely tied to nature and mood. Green is perhaps the clearest example, given its strong connection to the outdoors, while violet is said to evoke the feel of space exploration. Orange, meanwhile, is reportedly influenced by the appeal of golden-hour selfies, as well as rock formations and other outdoorsy imagery. In addition, the report highlights the rise of pearl white finishes, particularly among electric vehicles, where they help create a minimalist aesthetic – an approach that suits models like the Tesla Model 3. A two-percentage-point increase may seem modest, but if the trend continues, roads could gradually become more colorful, especially in an era where personal expression increasingly extends to everything from social media to vehicle choice. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Different Shade of an IconThe Ferrari Enzo is rare even by supercar standards. It was Ferrari’s flagship in the early 2000s, named after the company’s founder and built with serious F1 tech. Only 399 were made, putting it in the same league as icons like the 288 GTO, F40, and F50. Nearly every Enzo wears Rosso Corsa, but a handful broke the mold. Just 20 cars got non-standard paint, and only nine were finished in Argento Nürburgring. One of those nine is now headed to auction in Monaco – a standout even among Enzos. RM Sotheby's The Specific Car Heading to MonacoThis 2004 Enzo isn’t just rare because of its color. It’s one of five silver cars with a Rosso leather interior, and the only one that was delivered new to the UK. That makes it a true one-off in the Enzo world. Chassis 37754 rolled out in June 2004 and went straight to its first owner via Maranello Concessionaires. It’s been looked after by the book, with service records from official Ferrari dealers and top specialists like DK Engineering. The paperwork tells the story: decades of careful ownership and regular maintenance. This Enzo even made the cover of Auto Italia in 2009, sharing the spotlight with a Maserati MC12. In 2019, it earned Ferrari Classiche certification and the all-important Red Book, confirming everything is original. Ferrari’s Lecoq Paris service center gave it a full check-up in January 2026, including new Pirelli tires. The odometer reads just over 19,000 kilometers (11,806 miles) – relatively low mileage for a car like this. RM Sotheby's Not Going to be Cheap, Of CourseThis Enzo goes up for auction in Monaco on April 25, 2026, as Lot 141 at RM Sotheby’s. It comes with everything: original books, manuals, tool kit, and the custom Enzo luggage. For collectors, that’s the full package. Pre-auction estimates put it between €4.9 and €5.3 million, but don’t be surprised if it goes higher. That’s about $5.3 to $6.1 million at today’s rates. The value here isn’t just about the Enzo name. It’s the mix of rarity, unique spec, and a full history file. Silver paint makes it special, but being one of nine – and the only UK car like it – puts it in a league of its own. RM Sotheby's View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Engine WoesYou'd expect that when you are thinking of buying a brand-new car, everything will be well. After all, a new car is supposed to be fresh and well-built, ensuring reliable performance right out of the showroom. In some cases, though, the manufacturing process of certain parts isn't as good as it should be, leading to recalls. This is the case for a lawsuit filed against Ford for a defective Ecoboost engine, while there were actual defects found, a twist has been added to this rather simple issue. Other owners have come forward claiming their Ecoboost-powered cars weren't included in the recall, and have filed their own suit against Ford. James Riswick Ecoboost Intake Valves IssueFor context, as reported by Car Complaints, in 2022, three owners filed complaints that were received by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In these three separate complaints, the owners asked for an investigation into the Ecoboost engine, specifically the intake valves. In the letter, they alleged that 35 other complaints have already been submitted regarding the Ecoboost engine. It was then that the Government opened the investigation in July of 2022, looking into the 2021 Ford Bronco equipped with the 2.7- or 3.0-liter Ecoboost engine. In 2023, the investigation was widened to include the 2021-2022 Ford Bronco, Ford Edge, Ford Explorer, Ford F-150, 2021-2022 Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Nautilus, all of which carry the above-mentioned Ecoboost motors. Eventually, Ford concluded that the intake valves could break or crack. A 2024 recall was eventually issued by the brand, though only about 1% of the affected models were at risk of stalling. Dealerships were tasked with testing the engines and replacing those that failed. Ford also announced that a new customer satisfaction program will now include an extended warranty covering vehicles for up to 10 years or 150,000 miles. The whole affair lasted 27 months, with the NHTSA eventually closing its investigation after Ford issued the recall and the new warranty program. Ford No Issue DetectedIn a twist of events, three plaintiffs filed suits against Ford during this time, when their Ecoboost engines were not included in the recall, and they ended up overpaying for their cars. They go on to claim that this overpaying has caused them "personal injury." Ford has gone on to say that the plaintiffs had no problems with their vehicles or EcoBoost engines. The presiding judge did say that overpaying qualifies as "monetary harm" and can be classified as an injury. The plaintiffs must have a plausible argument or proof that the products are indeed defective. To clear the suit, however, Ford says that these plaintiffs' Ecoboost engines were made and purchased prior to the May 1, 2021, to October 31, 2021, production period, during which the defective valves were present. The judge ruled in favor of dismissing the class action suit after he said the plaintiffs lacked proof of a defect in the design or manufacturing of their specific Ecoboost engines. Zac Palmer View the full article

The E46 BMW M3 is arguably the finest interpretation of the company’s compact sports coupe, combining rear-wheel drive with a manual gearbox, a high-revving six-cylinder engine, and a lot less weight than today’s M3/M4. What the E46 M3 didn’t have was a wagon body style; it was limited to coupe and convertible derivatives, which BMW believed would be more popular. But a UK specialist called Petroyle is producing a limited series of E46 M3 Tourings that look as though they’ve come straight out of the factory in Munich—it’s the car BMW didn’t have the courage to put into showrooms itself. The first production unit is complete and instantly becomes one of the most desirable fast wagons in the world. The M3 Touring BMW Refused To Make BMW did actually produce an E46 M3 Touring concept, but it never went into production due to a lack of market interest. Since then, some builders have created their own E46 M3 Tourings, but Petroyle is the first known restoration specialist to take on the challenge of producing a limited series of these wagons—50 units, to be exact. The UK-based company’s hand-built creation remains faithful to the E46 M3, from the choice of wheels to the flared wheel arches. Petroyle The bodywork is the most challenging aspect of the project, requiring intensive engineering expertise to create the custom rear bumper, side grilles, and other M3-specific components. Most body panels for this M3 Touring are manufactured from carbon fiber, which adds strength but keeps the weight comparable to the original M3 Coupe. The Petroyle team is offering three engine choices: the original S54 straight-six mill, or M V8 S65 and V10 S85 conversions. Even better is the fact that all come with six-speed manuals. These are three of BMW’s all-time great engines, with natural aspiration and distinctive soundtracks. But, although the V10 has the most power, the S54 mill will be most faithful to the original E46. That said, the E60 M5’s 500-horsepower V10 in the smaller M3 Touring body must be incredible, especially paired with a stick-shift. Related: This Matching BMW M3 Touring and Porsche 911 Might Be the Perfect Two-Car Garage Fully Customizable Exterior and Interior Petroyle Petroyle launched the project with an M3 Touring in iconic Laguna Seca Blue, but a variety of colors will be available. Phoenix Yellow Metallic was another signature hue for the E46 M3 Coupe, and will probably look just as sweet on this Touring model. A variety of interior colors will be available, too, including the stunning Cinnamon leather seen on this one. Unlike the original E46, this Touring can be ordered with Apple CarPlay, but Petroyle has smartly resisted the urge to ruin the simplicity of the E46 dashboard with a big screen. The pleasingly tactile switches, knobs, and buttons from this era of BMW are all where you’d expect them to be, as are the gray-backed analog dials unique to the M3. “Petroyle has invested heavily in the exacting recreation of the original factory prototype and will be offering a limited run of bespoke, hand‑built vehicles,” said the UK-based restorer. “For a fortunate few BMW aficionados, the long‑held dream of owning an E46 M3 Touring is finally becoming a reality.” There’s no word on pricing, but Petroyle confirmed the M3 Tourings are available for export. They won’t be cheap, but it’s hard to put a price on one of the most desirable concepts BMW never actually put into production. Related: BMW Turned an April Fool’s Joke Into a Real M3 Touring Race Car What It Means Petroyle The modern M3/M4 is a completely different animal to the E46. Not only is it around 400 pounds heavier, but it’s also turbocharged, mostly equipped with an automatic, and offered with all-wheel drive. The purity of the E46 has been lost along the way, but Petroyle is offering fans an opportunity to enjoy one of the best BMWs that never made it into showrooms. For American fans, this Touring is particularly exclusive, as BMW doesn't sell a modern M3 Touring here. At a time when most luxury performance cars have become unnecessarily large and heavy, often hampered by an abundance of technology, this E46 M3 Touring is easily the purest modern M car you can get your hands on in 2026. View the full article

Full Steam Ahead for the CelicaIt's been about 20 years since the last Toyota Celica rolled off the assembly line, but it's coming back with a vengeance. It's not like a spur-of-the-moment decision, either, as Toyota had been dropping not-so-subtle hints about its return before finally announcing that it'll be building it again. Further hyping it up was the teaser for Gazoo Racing's World Rally Championship entry for 2027. Granted, Toyota didn't name the car, but let's be honest here, this couldn't be anything else. There's no specific launch date for it yet, but we can expect it before the end of the decade. AI Generated Image What We Know so FarA key detail has been confirmed by Toyota. That would be the use of an all-wheel-drive system, which makes us think the brand will be making a modern-day GT-Four. It's also been said that the car will come with the new G20E engine and that hybridization is being considered. The G20E is a new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine derived from the 2.4-liter T24A. The T24 is already installed in several Toyota and Lexus models, and its power ranges from 265 hp to 276 hp. With that in mind, the G20E will be applied to sportier models, serving as the downsized successor to the 3.5-liter 3GR V6 engine. Promising PerformanceNot much is known about the G20E other than its size. However, Auto Express reports that we might be looking at about 450 horsepower out of it. The GR Yaris mid-engined race car/test mule is said to be pushing that much power. It's a particularly interesting development given that the regular GR Yaris makes about 300 hp. Given that the GR Yaris with the prototype engine is mid-mounted, there's a good chance the Celica might be mid-engined. Besides, Toyota isn't confirming or denying anything. It's said that Toyota is aiming to make the engine as robust as possible, not just for reliability but also for tunability. It was also reported that it can handle up to 600 hp from the factory, although it's unlikely Toyota will sell the Celica with that much power right out of the box. But let's say that it won't make 450 hp; the engine still has the potential to be a strong powertrain. If Toyota is serious about making the Celica a serious performance car, we might be looking at 320 hp at the very least, putting it on par with the Civic Type R. And with Honda stubbornly refusing to give the Prelude the Type R treatment, Toyota could have the high-performance coupe market all for itself. Márcio Pereira View the full article

One Name, Two ModelsThe all-new and first-ever electric Cayenne may be here, but Porsche continues to sell the gas-powered third-generation model that will live on for a few more years. Mechanically, the two are as unrelated as they come, connected only by name. It's a wise move given that not all Cayenne buyers are ready to go full electric just yet. However, the third-generation Cayenne isn't exactly a young model. It was introduced in mid-2017 for the 2019 model year, so it's a familiar shape by now. The model was given a refresh for 2024, but there's no denying its age now. So, will the current ICE-powered Cayenne keep on going until customers fully accept the EV model? Porsche finally set the record straight. Porsche Fourth-Gen ICE Cayenne ConfirmedFor those hoping Porsche will still build an all-new gas-powered Cayenne, there's some good news. The company has confirmed to Auto Express that it is, indeed, committed to building one. The bad news? You'll have to wait until 2028 or 2029 for that one. Still, for those holding on to hope will appreciate this bit of information. "We plan to have these combustion engines and hybrids [available] far into the next decade," said Ralf Keller, Porsche's project manager for the Cayenne. In other words, he's the guy to talk to for all things related to that model. He also told the publication, "We can use the MLB-Evo platform, and we can use the PPC platform. It was always successful to share these things." Porsche The Audi ConnectionRecently, it was reported that Audi and Porsche will be further collaborating on future models. The next-generation Macan will be based on the current Q5, and the three-row Porsche crossover will be closely related to the upcoming Q9. With the mention of the MLB-Evo and PPC platforms, the Cayenne will be yet another Audi-based Porsche. It's worth noting that the third-generation Cayenne is already related to the current Q7, both of which use the MLB-Evo chassis. The thing is, only the main structures are shared, while almost everything else is developed independently. For the new generation of both SUVs, those ties are likely to be stronger. It's been said that the redesigned Q7 will make its world premiere sometime this year. There is no exact timeline mentioned just yet, but it's likely towards the end of 2026 and will be sold as a 2027 model year. It'll take a couple more years before the Porsche version appears. Porsche What to ExpectGiven that a large, three-row Porsche crossover is coming soon, we don't see the Cayenne ballooning in size for the next generation. The dimensions will likely grow marginally at most, although Keller hinted that its footprint will be about the same as the current gas-powered model. Some technologies from the electric Cayenne have been touted for the ICE version. Chief among these is the Active Ride suspension system, and it will be a first for a Porsche ICE vehicle if it gets it. That said, it's not set in stone, but the company is keen to add it. For the powertrain, expect mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, like the current model. There could be a greater degree of electrification, as new emissions regulations in Europe are tougher than ever. With that in mind, we could see an arrangement similar to the RS 5's twin-turbocharged V6 plug-in hybrid setup. Porsche View the full article

If it feels like the weather across the country is pulling in every direction at once today, that's because it essentially is. On Monday, March 30, the United States is dealing with a multi-front weather situation that includes a late-season winter storm, a critical fire weather outbreak, severe storm potential across the Gulf South, flash flooding concerns in the Great Lakes, and mountain snow from the Pacific Northwest into the Rockies. Here is a complete breakdown of everything happening today and what it means for drivers and residents in each affected region. Winter Storm — Northern USAThe most acute winter weather threat is centered on Northern Michigan, Upstate New York, and the higher elevations of Vermont and New Hampshire, where a Winter Storm Warning is in effect. Snowfall totals of 6-10 inches are forecast, with 40 mph wind gusts expected to produce blowing and drifting conditions throughout the day. The I-90 corridor across northern Michigan and central New York and the I-87 corridor through the Adirondacks are the primary impact highways. Icing is an added concern in northwestern Maine, where probabilities of meaningful ice accumulation are above 30 percent. While the I-95 corridor from Philadelphia to Boston is transitioning to rain thanks to warmer air moving in from the south, anyone headed inland should plan for full winter conditions. Kyle Edward Critical Fire Weather — Plains & Intermountain WestThe National Weather Service has placed Critical Fire Weather conditions across the Southern Plains today, with the threat extending into the central Plains and parts of the Southeast through the week. A Red Flag Warning is active in Wyoming and Idaho, where wind gusts of up to 55 mph and humidity values dropping into the teens are generating rapid fire spread potential. This follows a record-scale fire weather weekend that placed nearly 50 million people under fire weather warnings across 20 states on Saturday alone. The highest remaining risks today are in Wyoming, Nebraska, and Utah. High-profile vehicle advisories are in effect along exposed highway corridors including I-80 and I-25 in Wyoming. The Southwest and southern U.S. are also baking under unseasonably warm temperatures, with the NWS forecasting more than 100 record or near-record maximum temperatures through the end of the week and into the weekend. Severe Weather Watch — Lower Mississippi Valley & Texas Gulf CoastThe Storm Prediction Center is keeping an eye on a line of potential severe thunderstorms pushing across the Lower Mississippi Valley and the Texas Gulf Coast today. The overall severe weather probability for Monday is relatively low at around 5 percent, but the pattern is being monitored closely as moisture returns from the Gulf. Coastal districts from Texas through Louisiana are activating contingency plans as a precaution. While a major outbreak is not expected today, the SPC has flagged a more active severe weather pattern setting up for the days ahead, with storm chances increasing across the central U.S. as the week progresses. Getty / Douglas Sacha Flash Flooding — Upper Midwest, Great Lakes & Upper NortheastA stationary boundary draped across the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and upper Northeast is generating a separate concern today: flash flooding. The Weather Prediction Center is tracking high moisture parameters and increasing instability along this boundary, with periodic rounds of showers and thunderstorms expected throughout the day. This is a particularly complex area where precipitation types range from snow on the northern edge to heavy rain and thunderstorms on the southern side. Drivers on I-90 and I-94 through the Great Lakes region should be aware of the potential for rapidly changing conditions. Mountain Snow — Pacific Northwest & Northern RockiesA sharp upper-level trough is tracking eastward through Washington and Oregon today, dropping snow levels in the Cascades down to 1,500-3,000 feet. Above roughly 3,500 feet in the Washington Cascades, there is a better than 50 percent probability of at least 6 inches of snow. Mountain pass travel on routes like US-2 and SR-20 in Washington could be significantly impacted. The system is expected to push moisture into the northern Rockies through tonight and into Tuesday, eventually spreading some snow into Wyoming and Colorado at elevation. Highway Driving Tips for Today's ConditionsWith hazardous weather hitting multiple highway corridors simultaneously today, the fundamentals of safe highway driving matter more than usual. The first rule is following distance, on any wet, snowy, or smoke-reduced visibility stretch of highway, double it at a minimum and triple it if conditions are actively deteriorating around you. Cruise control should be completely off in any of today's affected regions; it cannot react to a sudden loss of traction the way an alert driver can, and on icy or slick pavement it can actually accelerate wheel spin rather than correct it. Keep your headlights on regardless of the time of day, in snow, smoke, or heavy rain, being seen by other drivers is just as important as seeing the road ahead. If you are traveling through the winter storm zones today, Autoblog's guide to best practices for driving in snow and ice is essential reading before you leave, covering everything from how to handle a skid to what belongs in your emergency kit. If you are on I-80 or I-25 through Wyoming today and encounter smoke or reduced visibility from fire activity, do not slow down and stop in the travel lane, get completely off the road, turn off your lights so other drivers do not follow you thinking you are still moving, and wait it out. And no matter which region you are driving through today, keep your phone charged, your tank above half, and check your state DOT's highway conditions page before you depart. Our winter car readiness checklist also has a full pre-trip rundown worth scanning if you are heading into any of today's warning zones. The Big PictureToday's weather pattern is a textbook late-March clash: Arctic air still fighting for territory in the North and West, while the first serious warmth of spring surges up from the Gulf and the Southwest. That collision zone is generating an unusually broad swath of hazardous conditions from coast to coast. Drivers across the northern tier, the Plains, and the Gulf South should monitor local NWS forecasts closely throughout the day, as conditions in several of these areas are expected to change rapidly. View the full article

A Red Flag Warning is in effect today, March 30, across parts of Wyoming, Idaho, and western Nebraska, as a dangerous combination of extreme wind gusts and critically low humidity creates rapid fire spread conditions across the central High Plains and Intermountain West. The National Weather Service is treating this as a critical fire weather situation, and authorities are urging the public to avoid any outdoor burning or ignition sources throughout the day. Fire weather outbreak This outbreak follows one of the most significant multi-day fire weather events in recent memory. On Saturday alone, fire weather warnings covered nearly 50 million people across almost 20 states, stretching from the Carolinas into Texas and across the Plains. While conditions in the Southeast are beginning to ease as moisture returns, the western anchor of the outbreak remains highly active today. The driving force behind today's threat is an exceptionally dry polar air mass that swept in behind a cold front, dropping relative humidity into the teens across a wide swath of the central U.S. That dryness, combined with wind gusts forecast to reach 55 mph in the most exposed areas, creates conditions where any fire can grow rapidly and move in unpredictable directions. Primary Impact Areas and Highway CorridorsWyoming's central and eastern corridors are the highest-risk zones today, with fire weather conditions extending along the I-80 and I-25 corridors. Drivers traveling through these areas may encounter reduced visibility from blowing dust or smoke, and high-profile vehicles including semi-trucks and RVs are already under advisory to reduce speeds on exposed east-west stretches. Nebraska's western Panhandle and extreme southwest South Dakota remain in elevated risk territory as well. In Idaho, fire weather concerns are also active, with low humidity and gusty winds affecting open range and grassland areas. Why the Risk Is This HighLate March marks the beginning of the peak fire weather season across the central High Plains. Dormant grasses and dry vegetation from the winter and early spring carry an extremely low moisture content at this time of year, making them highly receptive to ignition. Combined with the recurring pattern of strong wind events and low humidity that defines this region in spring, even a single spark from a vehicle, a downed power line, or a discarded cigarette can escalate into a fast-moving grassland fire within minutes. What Drivers and Residents Should DoThe NWS and the Storm Prediction Center are urging the public not to conduct any outdoor burning during the warning period. Drivers are advised to pull off the road safely if fire or heavy smoke is encountered and to follow any road closure or detour instructions from emergency personnel. Residents in rural areas with structures near open grasslands should review their evacuation plans and have them ready. Conditions are expected to gradually improve as winds calm later in the day, but fire weather concerns across the Plains are expected to persist into the coming week as the pattern remains unseasonably warm and dry. View the full article

A Winter Storm Warning is in effect across parts of the northern U.S. today, March 30, as a fast-moving late-season system sweeps through the Upper Midwest and interior Northeast. Forecasters at the National Weather Service are flagging Northern Michigan, Upstate New York, and the higher elevations of Vermont and New Hampshire as the primary impact zones, with conditions expected to create dangerous travel through Monday evening. What to ExpectSnowfall totals of 6-10 inches are forecast across the warning zones, with the heaviest accumulations likely along and north of the I-90 corridor in Michigan and across Upstate New York heading toward the Vermont and New Hampshire state lines. Wind gusts of up to 40 mph will combine with falling snow to produce blowing and drifting conditions, particularly on rural roads and exposed highway stretches. Visibility will drop significantly during the predawn and early morning hours, when gusts are expected to peak. While the I-95 corridor from Philadelphia to Boston is seeing a transition to plain rain as warmer air works in from the south, interior regions are taking the full winter punch. Drivers planning to travel on I-87 through the Adirondacks, I-90 across western and central New York, or any elevated route through the Green Mountains or White Mountains should expect significant deterioration throughout the day. Getty Images Road ConditionsThe combination of accumulating snow and sustained wind gusts is likely to cause rapid changes in road conditions, including the formation of snowpack and ice on bridges and overpasses. Rural secondary roads in the warning zones could see drifting that reduces them to single-lane or impassable conditions. The NWS is urging drivers in affected areas to allow extra travel time, keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, and avoid travel altogether during peak accumulation windows if possible. Icing Threat in MaineBeyond the snow, a separate icing threat is worth noting in northwestern Maine, where the National Weather Service's Weather Prediction Center is tracking probabilities of at least 0.10 inches of ice accumulation. Even small amounts of ice can make road surfaces treacherous, and any icing should be treated as a serious hazard, particularly on bridges, exit ramps, and shaded stretches of highway. Winter Driving TipsIf you are driving into the warning zones today, your tires are the single most important variable. All-wheel drive will help you get moving on snow-covered roads, but it does nothing to reduce stopping distance on ice, a point worth keeping in mind on any bridge or overpass along I-90 or I-87 where black ice can form without warning. Autoblog's winter car readiness checklist recommends a minimum of 4/32 inches of tread depth for safe winter driving, and cold temperatures will drop tire pressure by roughly 1 to 2 PSI for every 10 degrees, so check your pressures before you leave. Give yourself at least triple the stopping distance you would use on dry pavement. If today's storm is a reminder that your vehicle still isn't set up for winter, Autoblog's full breakdown of the best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving is worth a read, and our guide to best practices for driving in snow and ice covers everything from skid recovery to what to keep in your trunk for emergencies. The smartest call on a day like today, if your schedule allows, is to wait out the peak accumulation window entirely. TimingThe system is moving through the region today, Monday March 30, and conditions are expected to improve behind the storm's passage later in the evening hours. However, refreezing is a concern overnight in areas where roads are initially treated, so hazardous conditions may persist into Tuesday morning. View the full article

March 30 looks like a quiet late-winter date on the calendar. But the weather record tells a different story. From interstate-closing blizzards on the Northern Plains to tornadoes touching down in downtown Alabama, this date has produced some of the most dangerous driving conditions in recent U.S. history. The 2009 Northern Plains Blizzard: I-29 and I-90 Go DarkThe most severe March 30 highway event in modern record is the 2009 Northern Plains blizzard, which the NWS Aberdeen office documented in full. The storm swept across the Northern Rockies and drove deep into the Northern Plains, producing snowfall totals ranging from 2 inches in lighter-hit areas to nearly 22 inches in the hardest-hit zones of central and northern South Dakota. The highway impact was immediate and total. The NWS confirmed that Interstate 29 from Watertown to the North Dakota state line was shut down entirely, and Interstate 90 across Jones and Lyman counties closed as well. Schools canceled. Events canceled. Snowfall totals gave a sense of the storm's reach: Aberdeen, Britton, Andover, Sisseton, and Faulkton each recorded a foot of snow. Redfield, Webster, and Miller reached 14 inches. Ree Heights and McLaughlin saw 20 inches. A location northwest of Stephan recorded nearly 22 inches. These are not marginal accumulations — at these depths, even four-wheel-drive vehicles face serious traction loss on unplowed state routes and county roads. The storm also struck at one of the most vulnerable moments for Great Plains ranchers: calving season. The combination of extreme cold, snow, and wind cost area livestock operations significant losses that week. For drivers passing through South Dakota or North Dakota on I-29 or I-90 in late March, the 2009 event stands as a benchmark for how quickly a late-winter storm can make major interstate travel impassable. Getty Images The 2007 Southern Plains Outbreak: March 30 Tornado Watches in TexasMarch 30 also sits inside one of the most prolific tornado outbreak sequences in modern Plains history. The Storm Prediction Center issued a moderate risk for severe weather on March 30, 2007 for south-central Texas into northern Mexico as part of a multi-day outbreak that ultimately produced 80 confirmed tornadoes across the central United States between March 28 and 31. The system generated widespread hail as large as softballs and straight-line winds reaching 90 mph across the region. The outbreak spanned a corridor from South Dakota to central Texas, with the most intense activity along the High Plains from western Nebraska through western Kansas and into Oklahoma and Texas. Several tornadoes were large and structurally significant. The event serves as a reminder that late March is not a shoulder season for severe weather in the central U.S. — it is the opening act. Jonathon Ramsey The 2025 Dothan Tornado: A School Hit on March 30The most recent major March 30 weather event came in 2025, when an EF1 tornado struck the downtown area of Dothan, Alabama, hitting Dothan Preparatory Academy and injuring five students. The broader severe weather system that spawned the tornado also resulted in two deaths across the region and knocked out power to more than 100,000 customers. The Dothan event is a sharp reminder that tornado-producing systems do not limit themselves to rural corridors. Urban streets, school zones, and commercial districts all carry the same exposure risk when a confirmed tornado is moving through a populated area. Interstate 10 and U.S. 231 both pass through the Dothan metro, and a tornado at the EF1 threshold is fully capable of pushing vehicles off roads and collapsing signage onto travel lanes. What Drivers Should KnowWhen a Winter Storm Warning is in effect across the Northern Plains or Upper Midwest in late March, the I-29 and I-90 corridors should be treated as potential closure zones. The 2009 event did not offer a long build-up window — the storm moved fast, accumulations climbed quickly, and the interstates closed. If travel is necessary, file your route, carry emergency supplies, and monitor the NWS Aberdeen office or Weather Prediction Center for real-time road impact language. In the South and Southern Plains, late March is firmly inside severe weather season. Tornado Watches and Warnings can go active with relatively short lead times once a supercell gets organized. If you are driving through Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, or Oklahoma and a Tornado Warning is issued for your county, pulling off the road and getting into a reinforced structure is the correct response — not continuing to drive in hopes of outrunning the storm. Keep An Emergency Kit In Your VehicleWhether the threat is a blizzard on I-29 or a supercell approaching the I-10 corridor, a properly stocked emergency kit gives you options when conditions deteriorate faster than expected. Every vehicle should carry a blanket, flashlight, phone charger, water, non-perishable snacks, a first aid kit, and a basic tool kit. Drivers on northern routes in late winter should add a collapsible shovel, sand or cat litter for traction, and tire chains for mountain passes. In blizzard conditions, staying with your vehicle is almost always safer than attempting to walk for help. Tires Are Your First Line of DefenseThe 2009 Northern Plains blizzard arrived at snowfall depths that overwhelmed standard all-season tires quickly. A tire with the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) rating is designed to maintain traction in sustained snow and ice conditions. Tread depth also matters: at 4/32" or less, a tire's ability to channel slush and snow is significantly reduced. Cold air itself is a compounding factor — tire pressure drops approximately 1 to 2 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature, meaning a tire inflated for a 50-degree afternoon may be underinflated by morning after a hard overnight freeze. View the full article

The bad news for Denny Hamlin is that he came up one position short of pulling off a perfect race on Sunday at Martinsville Speedway. The good news is that he scored the most points in an era where that suddenly matters again. Hamlin led a race high 292 laps in the Cook Out 400, including the first and second stage, plus the fastest lap bonus, but was denied a seventh Ridgeway Grandfather ...Keep readingView the full article

There were three key moments that delivered Chase Elliott his earliest victory to start a NASCAR Cup Series season on Sunday at Martinsville Speedway. Combined, it was a masterclass between Elliott and crew chief Alan Gustafson, a combination that doesn’t generally seem to get the respect everyone around them says they should. Gustafson (surprisingly) intends to two-stop the final ...Keep readingView the full article

California drivers are once again paying the highest gas prices in the nation, and the numbers are getting hard to ignore. As of this week, the statewide average for a gallon of regular unleaded has surged to $5.84, according to AAA data. That puts California drivers nearly $2 above the national average of $3.93, a gap that has widened dramatically over the past month. In Los Angeles County alone, prices are pushing toward $6 a gallon, with some downtown LA stations already charging close to $9 per gallon for regular grade. California's average has climbed more than 80 cents in just the past month, and the trend shows no signs of reversing quickly. Why California Pays So Much MoreThe reasons California gas prices stay elevated above the rest of the country come down to a few compounding factors. The state runs on a specially formulated fuel blend required by the California Air Resources Board, which costs more to produce and limits how much supply can come from out-of-state refineries. On top of that, California's state tax on gasoline sits at 61.2 cents per gallon, one of the highest in the country alongside additional fees tied to the state's cap-and-trade and Low Carbon Fuel Standard programs.Then there's the global picture. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has rattled oil markets, with disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane for global oil supply, sending crude prices higher and filtering directly into what drivers pay at the pump. How High Could Prices Go?Energy analysts are not ruling out further increases. Some experts have pointed to a scenario where California prices could push toward $10 per gallon if the conflict escalates and crude supply tightens further. That may sound extreme, but California has come close before; the statewide record sits at just over $6.40 a gallon, set in October 2022. For now, drivers are adapting. Lines at Costco gas stations have been reported across the state as motorists search for any savings they can find. Others are only partially filling their tanks, hoping for relief that experts say is unlikely in the short term. The bottom line for California drivers this week: fill up strategically, check GasBuddy before you stop, and brace for prices that may not come down soon. Source: AAA, Auto Club of Southern California, California Energy Commission View the full article

If you drove a Ford F-150 to the gas station in Michigan this week, your fill-up almost certainly crossed $100. That's the reality for hundreds of thousands of truck owners in the state right now, and the number has climbed fast. Michigan's average gas price hit $3.92 per gallon this week, according to AAA, up 33 cents in just seven days and more than a dollar higher than this same time last month. It's the highest the state has seen since August 2023. In Metro Detroit, drivers are paying $3.93 per gallon. In Ann Arbor and Marquette, the average has reached $3.95. Running the Numbers on a Full TankThe 2026 Ford F-150 SuperCrew, the most popular configuration, comes with a standard 26-gallon fuel tank. At this week's Michigan average of $3.92 per gallon, topping off from empty costs roughly $102. Drivers who opted for the available 36-gallon extended-range tank are looking at closer to $141 per fill-up. That's a meaningful jump from where things stood just a few months ago. At the start of 2026, Michigan prices were hovering around $2.95 per gallon, which put a standard F-150 fill-up at around $77. In under three months, the cost of a full tank has increased by roughly $25. Why Prices Are SpikingThe main driver is the conflict in the Middle East, which has pushed crude oil prices well above $98 per barrel and sent ripple effects through pump prices nationwide. Michigan also implemented a significant fuel tax increase on January 1, 2026, raising the state excise tax to 52.4 cents per gallon, the fourth highest in the nation, though the change was offset in part by the elimination of the state's 6% sales tax on fuel. For context, the F-150 is America's best-selling vehicle. Its 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 earns an EPA rating of around 21 MPG combined, while the 5.0-liter V8 drops to about 19 MPG. At $3.92 per gallon, every 100 miles in the V8 costs roughly $20 in fuel alone. Tips to Stretch Your TankThe cheapest gas in Michigan this week can be found in Traverse City, where the average sits at $3.75 per gallon, a savings of about 17 cents over Metro Detroit prices. GasBuddy and the AAA Mobile app both allow drivers to search live prices by ZIP code before committing to a station. Source: AAA, Auto Club Group, fueleconomy.gov, Ford Motor Company View the full article

A Two-Day Severe Weather Window Is Opening Across MichiganThe Storm Prediction Center has issued severe weather outlooks covering Michigan for both Monday, March 30 and Tuesday, March 31, with the threat expanding and intensifying as the week progresses. Scattered strong and severe thunderstorms are expected through Tuesday across parts of the Great Lakes and Midwest, with damaging gusts and hail identified as the most likely hazards. NOAA Monday brings isolated to scattered coverage, meaning not every part of the state sees severe weather, but those that do could encounter damaging winds and large hail. The SPC has placed Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and Michigan under a Slight Risk for Monday, with the afternoon hours carrying the highest potential as daytime heating destabilizes the atmosphere. Cabarrus Weekly Tuesday Is the Day Forecasters Are WatchingA potent cold front is expected to crash into near-70-degree air late Tuesday, producing showers and thunderstorms with some storms turning strong or severe in the afternoon and evening, with southwest winds running 15 to 25 mph ahead of the front. WWMT The risk area expands significantly eastward Tuesday into Indiana and Ohio as the system pushes through. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, particularly Tuesday afternoon and evening, though damaging winds and large hail remain the headline threats. Cabarrus Weekly The Weather Prediction Center flagged severe weather and flash flooding chances along a stationary boundary across the Great Lakes corridor as the primary hazard for early next week. What This Means for Michigan HighwaysI-94, I-96, and I-75 across southern Lower Michigan carry the highest exposure during Tuesday's peak window. Afternoon and early evening commuters face the greatest risk. Large hail, defined here as hail reaching one inch or more in diameter, is capable of cracking windshields and damaging vehicle exteriors with little warning. What Drivers Should KnowIf severe thunderstorms fire Tuesday afternoon, pull off the highway and get under a sturdy overpass or into a structure. Do not shelter directly under a bridge deck, as wind tunnel effects can intensify beneath them. Reduce speed immediately when rain intensity drops visibility. Avoid cruise control in any active storm cell. For Michigan drivers moving through the I-94 corridor this week, hail damage is the most underestimated vehicle threat. A single severe cell can produce baseball-sized hail in seconds, and a comprehensive vehicle emergency kit should include basic documentation and insurance contacts for exactly this scenario. View the full article

Entering this race, Tyler Reddick had a 95-point lead over Ryan Blaney, who is now 82 points behind after Reddick's worst finish of the 2026 season so far -- which is only 15th. Reddick's 23XI Racing teammate Bubba Wallace had a DNF, making him the biggest loser in the points as he fell from third all the way to 11th. However, he is currently locked into a four-way tie for eighth, so it's not ...Keep readingView the full article

For the first time in 2026, a Hendrick Motorsports car went to Victory Lane. Chase Elliott earned the team's 31st win at Martinsville Speedway, taking the lead from Ross Chastain on the final restart. He then held off a charging Denny Hamlin, who had dominated most of the race and swept the stages, collecting his 22nd career win. Behind Elliott and Hamlin, Joey Logano finished third, Ty ...Keep readingView the full article

Chase Elliott collected his 22nd career win on Sunday, earning Hendrick Motorsports' first win of the 2026 NASCAR Cup season. Denny Hamlin led 292 of 400 laps, and also won both Stage 1 and Stage 2, but he ended the day half-a-second shy of the checkered flag. Joey Logano led the way for Ford in third, Ty Gibbs fourth, and William Byron fifth. Read Also: NASCAR CupStrategy ...Keep readingView the full article

One Giant Leap for HondaIf you were born on March 27, 1986, you share a birthday with Japan's first-ever dedicated luxury marque. That fateful date in 1986 marked the official launch of Acura, nearly a year after it was first previewed. Fast forward several years, and the range had ballooned from the initial two-car lineup. Models have come and gone, some were great, and some were not, but there's no denying that Acura built truly great cars over the past 40 years. With that, here are just some of the cars we think that defined the brand. Acura Acura Legend (KA7/KA8)We're well aware that we just wrote a love letter to the first-gen Legend, but the second-gen was, and still is, the definitive Acura flagship sedan. It was a huge step forward compared to its predecessor in terms of design, performance, and technology. While it was never exactly a rival for the Lexus LS (the price gap alone shows this), it well and truly held its own against the ES, as well as the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. It undercut the European opposition, but that's not the reason why the second-gen Legend is one of the greats. The smooth and creamy 3.2-liter V6 first used in the NSX was a great complement to its wonderful chassis, and despite being front-drive, it possessed a dynamic flair that made it a wonderful car to drive. Let's not forget the coupe, with its delicious curves, that made it truly distinct from the sedan. Did we mention it was available with a six-speed manual later on, too? Honda and Acura made this generation so good that the succeeding RL and Legend generations just couldn't capture the same magic for some reason. Acura Acura TL Type S (UA7)It took a while for Acura to finally get the formula right for its junior midsize sedan. The strangely lovable Vigor was a false start, but the brand didn't give up and replaced it with the 2.5 TL and 3.2 TL. While a step in the right direction, its generic styling did little to lift its image. The succeeding second-gen TL was a huge glow-up, but marred by catastrophic transmission issues. A shame, because we think it's a bit of a looker. But it all finally came together for the third-gen TL, more specifically, with the Type S model for the 2007 and 2008 model years. By this time, Acura had finally sorted the issues with its automatics (along with Honda), but we all know the TL Type S to get is the one with the six-speed manual. The manual models also came standard with a limited-slip differential, double wishbones at the front, multi-links at the rear, and an upgraded spring-and-damper combo, making this a true sport sedan. Peak TL? Absolutely, and it practically made the RL irrelevant thanks to that 286 hp 3.5-liter V6. Acura Acura MDX (YD1)Like it or not, the MDX deserves a spot in this list, even if begrudgingly so. We moan about crossovers now, but the first-gen MDX was a hugely significant and important model for Acura. At the time, the brand was losing out on the SUV craze, and Lexus was kicking its compatriots to the curb with the RX. The lazily rebadged SLX was never going to cut it. Acura finally responded to the RX with the MDX in 2000. Like its main rival at the time, it was a crossover, but it offered three-row seating thanks to its Odyssey roots, a punchier V6 engine, and a far more clever all-wheel drive system. The MDX was also among the first crossovers in its size class to come with seven seats as standard, and its car-based underpinnings basically banished any thoughts of the SLX, not that it was even memorable in the first place. Today, the MDX continues doing a lot of heavy lifting for Acura as its best-selling model. Acura Acura Integra Type R (DC2)For those who need proof that front-wheel drive cars can, indeed, dance, one has to get behind the wheel of the Integra Type R. Long before the Civic Type R finally landed in the U.S., the hot Integra was America's first real taste of what the red R was all about. Spoiler alert: the car was well worth the hype. As it is, the third-generation Integra was, and still is, one of the greatest front-wheel drive platforms ever made. It was made during the time Honda was at the height of flexing its engineering might, and it beamed through the car's driving dynamics and characteristics. Let's be honest, a car like the Integra didn't need double-wishbone suspension in all four corners, but that's exactly what made it such a high-handling benchmark for all front-wheel-drive performance cars. The Type R simply distilled the basic platform by stiffening and lightening it, making it more focused, and slapping in that high-revving B18C engine. The combination of all those factors helped the Integra Type R establish itself as one of the true legends of the '90s. Now that we think about it, Honda could've used the current Prelude, name it the Integra Coupe, and stick in that K20C1 engine to make a modern Integra Type R. C'mon, Honda, we know you can do it. Acura Acura NSX (NA1/NA2)You thought we were going to leave out the NSX, didn't you? Of course, we couldn't do that to Japan's first true supercar. It was, by all means, an ambitious project, but it ended up showing the world what Honda could really do if asked to build a Ferrari-fighter. Nobody asked for it, but we're glad it happened. Its backstory was incredible as it underwent so many changes throughout its development. Several Japanese motorsports legends, such as Motoharu Kurosawa, were involved in the project, as were Ayrton Senna, who urged Honda to further stiffen the chassis, and Bobby Rahal, who provided input on suspension work. The end result was a car that could hang with some of the world's best supercars at the time, that had little in the way of compromise. It was solid, well-built, and reliable, but also capable of delivering a whole lot of smiles behind the wheel. The NSX made its world premiere as an Acura first and Honda second, further highlighting its significance for the luxury division. Sure, it wasn't a financial success, but that wasn't the point. The original NSX was, and still is, an engineering masterpiece. Acura Honorable MentionsThere are a couple more Acuras that we think are still worth a mention. In chronological order, we'll start with the CL Type S, Acura's first model to receive the Type S treatment. Up next is the RSX, which was essentially the fourth-gen Honda Integra for the North American market, still great to drive, if not quite to the same level as its predecessor. For our Canadian readers, we think the CSX deserves a shout, mainly because it was literally the Japanese/global-market Civic for North America, and it came standard with a 2.0-liter, not the 1.8. Last but not least, both generations of the TSX gave America a taste of the Japanese- and European-market Honda Accords at a reasonable price. There was even a Sport Wagon model for the second-generation, the one and only time Acura would sell a wagon in North America. Acura Acura View the 21 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Ferrari’s First EV Is Almost HereFerrari’s first electric model, the Luce (or whatever it will be called), is set to arrive this year, and it’s clear they’re taking a different approach. Instead of focusing on acceleration numbers, Ferrari is looking at how the car actually feels to drive. In a recent interview with Autocar India, Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna revealed that the company worked with NASA during the development of the Luce – not for outright speed, but to understand how acceleration affects the human body, specifically the brain. Ferrari is essentially trying to answer a question many EV makers haven’t fully addressed yet: Just because a car can accelerate brutally fast, should it? When Acceleration Becomes a ProblemElectric cars make it easy to achieve extreme acceleration. Even big, heavy vehicles can hit impressive 0–62 mph times thanks to instant torque. The catch is that the experience isn’t always enjoyable for the people inside. Research shows that aggressive, linear acceleration can feel unnatural and even disorienting. Without the gradual buildup you get from a traditional engine, the brain and inner ear can struggle to keep up. Ferrari recognized this issue early on. According to the interview, it studied how much acceleration actually feels good before it crosses the line into discomfort. Push it too far, and drivers stop enjoying the drive and just wait for it to be over. That’s where the NASA collaboration comes in. Ferrari worked with medical research centers and the space agency to better understand the limits of human perception under acceleration. Rather than chasing the highest numbers, Ferrari is tuning the Luce around five main areas: acceleration, cornering, braking, torque delivery, and sound. The goal is to make the car engaging to drive, not just fast on paper. Ferrari A Different Kind of Electric FerrariFerrari is also rethinking what an electric car should be. The Luce isn’t meant to be a track car, at least for now. Battery limits still make it tough to drive hard for long periods, especially since range drops quickly when you push it. Ferrari claims it can go over 311 miles on a charge, but if you drive it hard, that number can drop to around 124 miles. Ferrari is also adding some unique touches to the driving experience. The Luce will use paddle shifters to simulate gear changes – not for regenerative braking, but to control how torque is delivered. Sounds familiar? As we already know, Ferrari didn’t fill the cabin with screens; instead, it mixed analog controls with digital tech. The aim is to keep the car from feeling like every other high-tech interior and to preserve some real mechanical feel. Taken together, the Luce isn’t trying to beat every EV in the stats. Instead, Ferrari wants it to feel like a real Ferrari in ways you can’t measure on a spec sheet. Ferrari View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Performance IconSubaru's claim to fame would be its performance-oriented reputation. Starting as rugged, dependable, and unbreakable cars, quickly translated into success in the world of motorsports, particularly rallying. While the Symmetrical AWD system is a feat of engineering, another aspect Subaru really leaned into is the perfection of the Boxer engine layout. Boxer engines aid handling and stability; the flat construction and lower placement in the engine bay help lower the car's overall center of gravity. Another key aspect is that the engine is supposed to be smoother because opposing piston movements naturally cancel each other's vibrations. In other words, there are many reasons the Boxer layout still exists today. That hasn't stopped some curious people from experimenting with the layout. From Boxer to Inline-4YouTube channel Garage 54, known for its wild automotive experiments, is making the rounds for taking on a daunting challenge. These Russians have decided to convert Subaru's patented Boxer engine into the more normal inline-4 layout used by other brands. At the beginning of the video, it is quickly explained that the task itself will be intensive, requiring them to source another donor Boxer engine to complete the conversion. One of the first steps they needed to do was to chop the engine block in half to separate the left cylinder bank from the right cylinder bank. This process destroys the engine's naturally flat geometry design. Next up was the rotation; instead of having the banks face each other like a Boxer, both were rotated upwards to 90 degrees. The layout that Garage 54 went with was an inline-4 similar to what Toyota or Honda does. According to them, one of the hardest parts of the construction was the welding. Making two separate aluminum banks back together isn't easy by any means, but in this case it was made harder by the fact that the cast aluminum was oil-soaked and porous, which caused the metal to boil and crack under the heat of welding. Custom pins were needed to align the parts before fusing them into a singular vertical block. Garage 54/YoutTube View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Does It Run?After they reconstructed the engine, they moved on to other vital parts of the engine's internals. The crankshaft was cut into pieces, then each piece was reinstalled to properly simulate the right firing order of an inline-4. In the end, Garage 54 managed to actually make the Boxer engine resemble the form of an inline-4. Though they admitted that the process turned out to be more than what they initially thought. As for the function, they ended the video without starting it yet, but they are confident it'll work and have promised to post more videos about this experiment soon. Garage 54/YoutTube View the full article

A Long-Awaited Debut for MagmaThe Genesis GV60 Magma has been in the spotlight for good reason. It’s not just another trim level. This is the first real production car from Genesis’ Magma performance division, and since the concept debuted, people have been waiting to see whether the production version would deliver. Genesis took its time entering the performance EV market. It has been refining the E-GMP platform across different models before finally going all-in. The GV60 Magma is that shift. It’s not just a regular GV60 with some extra trim; it’s meant to be the performance flagship for Genesis’ electric range. Now, we finally get to see the GV60 Magma out in the open, undisguised and on US roads before its official arrival in the summer. Spotted in the Wild, and It Looks the PartRecent sightings of the US-spec GV60 Magma show that Genesis stuck close to the aggressive look of the concept. The prototype on public roads sits wide and low, with aero parts that pop out. The amber side markers and manufacturer’s plate are the obvious signs it’s the American version. Up front, the design looks built for function, even with the unit not wearing the Magma Orange paint. Bigger air intakes and a more sculpted bumper stand out. The wider fenders and track make it look planted, and the wheels look bigger and more serious, with upgraded brakes and suspension behind them. At the back, there’s a more aggressive diffuser and some tweaks that look like they’re there for airflow, not just style. Then there’s the massive wing as the centerpiece. It’s a bit flashy but not just for the sake of it. Overall, the Magma looks like it was built with purpose. It doesn’t feel like a styling kit pretending to be fast. Even though it shares the E-GMP platform with the Ioniq 5 N, it looks engineered differently from the start. Kindel Auto/YouTube View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What to Expect from the GV60 MagmaExpect power over 600 horsepower, which puts the GV60 Magma right in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N's wheelhouse. Dual-motor all-wheel drive is a definite at this point, along with upgrades to cooling, battery management, and torque-splitting. The GV60 Magma will feature performance-specific drive modes, including simulated gear shifts and sound enhancements. However, Genesis may take a slightly more restrained approach, focusing on smoothness and control. If anything, the GV60 Magma shows Genesis wants to do performance on its own terms. It’s not loud just to get attention, but it’s not playing it safe either. Kindel Auto/YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

End of an EraAfter earlier reports saying the Model S and Model X would be discontinued, Tesla has recently sent an email to U.S. customers thanking them for their support of both outgoing nameplates. The EV maker also took the opportunity to encourage interested buyers to place orders now as it clears its limited inventory. Tesla was not explicit in the email, saying only that the move would “make way for this autonomous future.” Still, the automaker was likely referring to freeing up capacity for upcoming products, including the Optimus humanoid robot and the Cybercab robotaxi. Both projects could help reposition the company as more than just an EV maker. Tesla just sent out a new email thanking Model S/X owners. “These vehicles made it possible for Tesla to develop the technology that would move our world toward autonomy. As we make way for this autonomous future, Model S and Model X production will be ending. If you'd like to… pic.twitter.com/IeUhZ3iDnX — Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) March 27, 2026 When EVs Got SeriousHowever, Tesla did describe the Model S and Model X as the EVs that “marked the beginning of the world's transition to electric transportation,” and that claim is hard to dismiss. When the Model S arrived in 2012 as Tesla’s flagship, it delivered blistering performance that let it outrun several established performance cars. The Model S helped bring excitement to the mass market, thanks in large part to its instant torque, which became one of the defining traits of electric performance. One could argue that the original Roadster also played an important role, but it was a far more limited-production model. The Model X followed three years later with similar performance, but in a larger package. It also left a strong impression, with its Falcon Wing doors wowing the market and serving as an early signal that EVs would bring more advanced technology into the mainstream. Since then, several automakers have introduced competitors, including the Lucid Air and the Porsche Taycan in the high-performance EV sedan segment. Meanwhile, more three-row EVs have also entered the market, such as the Rivian R1S and Hyundai Ioniq 9. Tesla Tesla’s Big Pivot BeginsTesla did not disclose the exact end date for production of the Model S and Model X. However, it likely will not be long, as the Cybercab is scheduled to start mass production next month. The latest Optimus Gen 3 is also scheduled for production toward the end of 2026. For those considering the Model S or Model X while inventory lasts, the outgoing flagship sedan starts at $94,990, while its crossover counterpart starts at $99,990. Opting for the performance-focused Plaid trim adds about $15,000. Tesla View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Cherokee Returns, But Not Without FrictionStellantis brought back the Jeep Cherokee for 2026, aiming to put one of Jeep’s most important models back in the spotlight. The new sixth-generation Cherokee, now with a hybrid option, started showing up in US dealerships earlier this year. Early buyers already have theirs, and the launch seemed smooth at first. But that momentum didn’t last. Production is now on pause, so if you ordered recently, your Cherokee might not arrive on time. The problem isn’t demand or a technical glitch – it’s a supply chain standoff that shut down a key factory. The Toluca, Mexico plant, which builds both the Cherokee and the Compass, has been shut down since mid-March. For a model just making its comeback, even a short stoppage can throw off delivery schedules, especially as dealers start stacking up new orders. Stellantis Supplier Dispute Escalates to CourtAccording to a report by The Wall Street Journal, the issue stems from a payment dispute between Stellantis and supplier ZF Chassis Modules, a joint venture involving ZF Friedrichshafen and Foxconn. ZF Chassis Modules makes the suspension parts for the Cherokee. Earlier this month, they stopped shipping to Toluca, demanding higher prices for contracts already in place. Stellantis fired back with a lawsuit in Michigan, alleging the supplier breached its agreement and brought production to a halt. The dispute isn’t limited to Mexico. The supplier also reportedly threatened to cut off parts to a Canadian plant in Windsor, Ontario, where Stellantis builds the Chrysler Pacifica and Dodge Charger. A temporary restraining order has since required shipments to continue there, preventing a second shutdown. Automakers and suppliers argue over prices all the time, but it’s rare for things to get this heated. Stellantis says it already paid more than $26 million and agreed to price hikes late last year to keep parts moving. Now, the supplier wants another $70 million on top of that. Stellantis What Happens NextThere’s a chance things could get back on track soon. Stellantis says a court order in Mexico might let the Toluca plant restart within days, which would get Cherokee production moving again. There’s also a hearing set for April 6 in Michigan to sort out the bigger fight. Even if production restarts soon, the delay could still cause headaches. Stellantis usually keeps just a few hours’ worth of these suspension parts in stock, so there’s almost no cushion when the supply chain hits a snag. The timing makes things even trickier. Stellantis is trying to bounce back after a tough 2025, and the Cherokee and Pacifica are supposed to help steady sales. Any delay, even a short one, could slow down that recovery. So what does this mean if you’re buying? If your Cherokee is already in your driveway, you’re in the clear. But if you just placed an order, check with your dealer – your wait time depends on how fast Stellantis and its supplier can settle this fight. Stellantis View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article