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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

Nissan e-Power Hybrid: A Different Kind of ElectrificationNissan invited a group of media and influencers to Palm Springs for a mixture of destination and automotive coverage. The "Loud Value" event took place over the weekend, and was well received by media. During that visit, we were given access to the Nissan Qashqai, a vehicle not currently sold in the United States. More importantly, it came equipped with the company’s e-Power hybrid system. This is a big deal for Nissan. It represents a major step into the hybrid space with a system that is fundamentally different from what most competitors are offering. Even more significant, this technology is expected to debut stateside in the next-generation Nissan Rogue. How e-Power Works: Not Your Typical HybridAt first glance, the setup sounds familiar. There is a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, similar to what you will find in the current Rogue. But that is where the similarities end. In the e-Power system, the gasoline engine never directly powers the wheels. Instead, it acts purely as a generator, producing electricity to charge a small battery pack. That battery then feeds electric motors, which drive the front wheels. There is no mechanical connection between the engine and the drivetrain. Think of it as an electric vehicle with a built-in generator. Many refer to this as a range extender, or REX-style system. It is technically a series hybrid, and unlike plug-in hybrids, there is no need to plug it in. Key specs and details include: 187 horsepower from the electric motor systemApproximately 60 mpg on the WLTP cycle, likely translating to mid-40 mpg in U.S. testing2.1-kWh lithium-ion batteryRoughly 12-gallon fuel tankEstimated range between 400 and 500 milesOne-pedal driving mode for added efficiency and easeIt is a simple concept on paper, but one that feels quite different in practice. View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Driving the Qashqai: Surprisingly EV-LikeAs I mentioned, we had the opportunity to sample the Qashqai in Palm Springs. I approached it as a preview of what future Nissan products might feel like, especially given how uncompetitive the brand has been in the U.S. hybrid space. Right away, the system impressed. Around town, acceleration and general driving behavior feel remarkably similar to a full electric vehicle. Power delivery is immediate and smooth, with no traditional shifting or hesitation. The gasoline engine remains mostly in the background, only becoming noticeable under heavy acceleration or when the battery needs replenishing. Even then, the transition is relatively seamless. If you push the system hard and begin to drain the battery, the engine stays on longer, continuously generating power to keep everything running. It is a different sensation compared to traditional hybrids, which often blend engine and motor power in more obvious ways. Despite the added weight of the battery system, performance feels competitive with other hybrids in the segment. More importantly, it feels composed. Palm Springs provided a fairly harsh testing environment, with high temperatures and constant air conditioning use. Even so, the system never seemed strained. I made multiple attempts to deplete the battery and force the system into a worst-case scenario, but it handled everything without issue. The engine simply kicked in and kept things topped off. What This Means for the Next Nissan RogueAccording to Nissan, this e-Power system will make its way into the next-generation Rogue. That alone would be a major shift, but there is more. The upcoming Rogue is expected to feature an additional electric motor powering the rear axle, effectively creating an all-wheel-drive system without a traditional mechanical link between the front and rear. If executed well, this could be a genuinely unique offering in the segment. It would combine: EV-like driving characteristicsHybrid convenience with no charging requiredElectrified all-wheel driveThat combination is not something currently offered in the U.S. compact crossover space. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Final Thoughts: Perfect Timing or Playing Catch-Up?The timing is interesting. The U.S. market is once again embracing hybrids in a big way, reminiscent of the late 2000s when vehicles like the Toyota Prius surged in popularity Automakers are responding quickly, but Nissan finds itself in a familiar position. While it was early to EVs with the Nissan Leaf, it never established a strong hybrid presence in the United States. That may finally be changing. From what I experienced, the Qashqai’s e-Power system feels like a legitimate step forward. It delivers a driving experience that leans heavily toward EV smoothness while maintaining the convenience of gasoline refueling. Related: I Drove the 2026 Lexus TX 350 Premium AWD. Here's My Honest Review That said, not everything is perfect. The Qashqai’s styling, particularly the front end, feels a bit overdone, and some proportions may not appeal to everyone. If this platform underpins the next Rogue, I would expect and hope for a more conservative, broadly appealing design. I am also curious to see how capable the upcoming all-wheel-drive system will be. If Nissan can add even modest off-road capability, it would further strengthen the package. With a projected debut of the next Rogue expected in late 2026, we will not have to wait long to see how this all comes together. If Nissan gets this right, it could be one of the more interesting hybrid entries in years. Related: Ranking The 5 Most Fuel-Efficient SUVs You Can Buy in 2026 View the full article

Early ViralityIf you were a petrol head in the early 10s, you know that one of the first YouTube viral video sensations was Ken Block's Gymkhana showcases. Block, who was a fairly decent rally driver and drifter, showcased his masterclass in car control through death-defying driving stunts. Equally as famous as Block himself are the various cars he used in these videos, heavily modified rally/drift racers. He started off with an Impreza WRX, and gradually went for Ford models. One of his last Gymkhana cars, an MK2 Ford Escort, is now on sale. Bring A Trailer View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Star Spangled EscortNow listed on Bring A Trailer is a star of one of the Gymkhana videos, a 1978 Ford Escort MK2. This particular car was converted to left-hand drive, given that the Escort was a British model. It was bought by Ken Block and his Hoonigan Racing team back in 2008 for a short stint as a tarmac rally car. It was then converted into a pure Gymkhana competition car, with Block saying it was the "ultimate rear wheel drive Gymkhana car." Most of the conversion and modification work was done by Quick Motorsport, where the chassis was reinforced, and the suspension was modified. They also installed the 2.5-liter DOHC Millington Diamond inline-four linked to a Sadev six-speed sequential manual gearbox and a Ford Motorsport 9” rear end. Power is rated at a very respectable 333 hp, with the redline tapping out at a screaming 9,000 rpm. When the car was returned to the United States, a tasteful Rocket Bunny kit complemented by a carbon fibre hood painted in the iconic American flag, and rims from Fifteen52. Other mods include Geartronics flatshift system, an upright handbrake lever, AP Racing disc brakes, Reiger three-way adjustable dampers, and a WRC-style independent rear end. Inside is a completely stripped interior that only has the essential bits for driving, Recaro carbon fibre bucket seats, Sparco steering wheel, and a roll cage. Bring A Trailer View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Collectors ItemThis particular car was actually displayed in the Petersen Automotive Museum, which is an achievement for any car. It was acquired by the current seller back in 2021, and it'll be sold with a lot of accompanying extras like collection of memorabilia will accompany the car along with a binder of records, multiple sets of wheels and tires. Currently, the top bid is at a cool $215,000 with bidding ending in 5 days. Whoever ends up with the car will own a piece of modern automotive history from a man who moved the needle forward for the Gymkhana discipline. Bring A Trailer View the full article

Unbreakable TrustThe relationship between a dealer and an owner is special – one that's built on trust. If the dealer earns the customers' trust, it also gains their loyalty, ensuring that all service and repair work, as well as future model purchases, remain at the same place. In the customer's case, having a trustworthy dealer removes headaches when certain parts or repairs need to be addressed; the customer expects the dealer to return the same level of trust with proper repairs and zero shady business. However, we can't always say everything turns out well and good, as incidents put dealerships – particularly Mercedes-Benz of Collierville – in a bad light. From Customer Car to Dealership MobileThe incident was reported by WREG, in which a dealership employee used a customer's personal Mercedes-Benz C-Class to go to a bar. This incident highlights two transgressions by the dealership: taking the car out without the owner's permission and taking it to a bar. The car was in the dealership after being filled up with bad gas. Kimberly Porter is the owner, and she said she found out about this through the GPS monitoring systems installed in cars nowadays. It alerted her that her C-class was being brought to a local bar past midnight. It all took place on the evening of January 16. She first received an alert that her car was on the go at 7 pm, then another at 8:30 pm showing the car at a restaurant, and finally the midnight alert showing the car in a bar. It was after the last alert that Porter decided to take her loaner car to the bar, and that's when she saw her own car parked in the lot. She called the police, thinking her car had been stolen from the dealership. When the cops arrived, they found Derrick Nguyen's I.D., who works at the Mercedes-Benz dealership. They soon found Nguyen in the bar and spoke to him. He claims that he had permission to drive the car. It was soon refuted by Porter, who spoke with a dealership service manager who said the opposite. Plot TwistNguyen was immediately arrested at the bar and taken to jail for theft of property. Adding insult to injury was the fact that WREG obtained records that showed Nguyen was intoxicated when he was brought in. But wait, there's more – the very next day, Porter was called by the dealership to say her car was ready (after a month of repairs). She says that the dealership was being aggressive and told her that if the loaner car wasn't returned by 6 pm, they would report it stolen. Furthermore, Porter claims that she was advised by a dealership executive to drop the case because Nguyen was a good kid. Lastly, the general sales manager said that she signed the repair orders, which allow technicians to drive the car to diagnose problems. Porter is holding strong and continues her civil suit against Nguyen and the dealership. WREG News Channel 3 Memphis View the full article

There are very few remaining V12-powered cars in the world, and even fewer that are not two-seaters like the Pagani Huayra, Ferrari 12Cilindri, Lamborghini Revuelto, GMA T.50, and Aston Martin Vanquish. When it comes to four-doors, the list includes the Ferrari Purosangue, a handful of Rolls-Royce products, and the Mercedes-Maybach S680. Sadly for some, S680 won't necessarily mean V12 power everywhere, though it will in the U.S. Mercedes confirmed to Motor1 that it is discontinuing its 621-horsepower M279 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 in Europe because Euro 7 regulations that are about to go into effect will deem the monstrous motor noncompliant. As a result, the S680 badge will mean different things in different countries. Mercedes Explains Where the V12 Will Live On Mercedes-Benz In a statement, Mercedes said that it is constantly reviewing its range, updating its engine offerings, and ensuring its cars "meticulously comply with all applicable standards, including EU7." Thus, says Mercedes, "in the European and CoC markets"—countries that follow the European Certificate of Conformity standards—"as well as in some other markets such as India, the updated [603-hp] V8 is the new top engine." This applies to countries like Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, while China, the United States, and the Middle East will still enjoy the sultry-smooth V12. Related: America’s Love for V8s Is Keeping BMW’s Biggest Engines Alive With similar output, countries whose Maybach offerings are topped by V8s won't be losing much in the way of performance, but that's not what those who buy V12 luxury limos care about most anyway. Supercar owners love the sound of a highly-strung naturally aspirated V12, and in something like the Aston Martin Vanquish, a turbocharged V12 makes for the ultimate GT experience. In the case of Maybach buyers, those extra four cylinders give owners additional bragging rights over the proletariat, along with a kind of effortless torque and smooth power delivery that a V8 simply can't match. Maybach and Rolls-Royce Are in a Class of Their Own Mercedes-Benz View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article In the U.S., only the Mercedes-Maybach S680 and the Rolls-Royce Ghost, Cullinan, and Phantom offer access to a V12 and four seats in a single package. The BMW 7 Series no longer offers the 12-cylinder engine, despite the 6.75-liter motor still being produced for Rolls-Royce, and Volkswagen Group products like the Bentley Flying Spur, Volkswagen Phaeton, and Audi A8 either no longer exist or have dropped their W12 mills. Americans with more money than they can spend will revel in an added sense of superiority, knowing that even those across the pond who can afford a $250,000+ Maybach can no longer get 12 cylinders in the Sonderklasse, and given this country's love for big engines—the new Corvette Grand Sport with its 6.7-liter V8 is a prime example that there's still no replacement for displacement in the "land of the free"—we don't see them disappearing from our shores anytime soon. View the full article

Toyota is not a company that panics. This is the company that gave the world Just-in-Time manufacturing, a production philosophy so influential it reshaped industries beyond automotive. It gave us Kaizen, the discipline of relentless, incremental improvement that became a management mantra. For decades, a Toyota on your driveway was a statement of faith in quality and longevity. However, Toyota’s reputation for bulletproof simplicity has been harder to maintain in an era of software-heavy platforms, the very thing Chinese automakers seem to be getting right, rewriting the rules on how quickly, cheaply, and packed full of tech cars can be built. So when Toyota CEO Koji Sato stood before 484 suppliers recently and declared, "Unless things change, we will not survive," the world took notice. Toyota View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What China Is Actually Doing to the IndustryThe threat isn't theoretical. Chinese brands, led by BYD, have fundamentally disrupted the economics of car production. BYD has built a vertically integrated machine that manufactures its own batteries, chips, and motors, squeezing out costs at every step. The result is feature-rich electric vehicles at prices Western and Japanese manufacturers struggle to match even on paper. But Chinese automakers are not just competing on cost. They are competing on a fundamentally different definition of what “finished” looks like, striving not for perfection, but for ‘good enough’. The Chinese playbook is simple: build fast, price low, iterate quickly. The quality side of things is a little more complicated. BYD, for example, has faced a cascade of recalls in 2024 and 2025, covering everything from fire-risk steering control defects to battery sealing failures, with over 210,000 vehicles recalled in 2025 alone. Yet despite these stumbles, the momentum is undeniable. Getty Images What Toyota Is Now Asking Its Suppliers to DoSato's message to suppliers was pointed. The system that once made Toyota unbeatable is now slowing it down. Under its previous system, Toyota would routinely scrap steering wheels with barely perceptible resin wrinkles and reject wire harness components by the tens of thousands for minor discoloration. None of these flaws would ever be seen or felt by a customer. Getty Images Toyota’s new approach, called Smart Standard Activity, strips back over-engineered quality thresholds that add cost without adding value. The goal is leaner production, lower component prices, and a supply chain agile enough to compete with Chinese automakers. For decades, the global auto industry tried to become more like Toyota. Now, Toyota is being forced to become more like China. That reversal may end up being the most important shift the industry has seen in a long time. View the full article

Not Your Typical Ferrari ExperienceStepping inside the Ferrari 12Cilindri would probably be a dream for many, not just because of the brand’s prestige, but also because it retains a traditional naturally aspirated V12 engine at a time when the industry is rapidly moving toward electrification, something many enthusiasts appreciate. So perhaps this new and unique 12Cilindri experience may be the closest most of us will ever get to being up close with the supercar, albeit with a major twist. Ferrari unveiled a one-off, 1:1-scale 12Cilindri Spider built from 554,767 bricks, making it the largest Lego Ferrari ever created. Located at Legoland New York Resort, the model allows guests to open the doors, climb inside, and take a seat. The twist, however, is that this Lego car does not drive, unlike other Lego builds such as the enthusiast-built Volvo V70 wagon or the Formula 1 cars used at the 2025 Miami Grand Prix. Ferrari Built Brick by BrickThe Lego Ferrari began with a structural frame as its foundation, after which Lego Master Model Builders added finer details, including functional headlamps and red brake calipers. Completing the 1:1-scale model took 2,300 hours, and at nearly 1,800 kg (3,968 lbs), it is heavier than most sedans, including the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, while coming in roughly on par with the road-going 12Cilindri itself. That shows how automakers work to keep performance cars as light as possible to maximize the power-to-weight ratio. For reference, the 12Cilindri Spider has a dry weight of 3,571 lbs, excluding fluids such as fuel and coolant, and an NA V12 producing 819 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. The supercar can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 2.95 seconds, something Legoland guests will not experience with the record-breaking Lego Ferrari, though it still offers a different kind of fun. Ferrari A Playground for Ferrari FansThe 1:1-scale 12Cilindri Spider is part of the Ferrari Build & Race attraction, which features several themed zones, including a Build and Test area. There, guests can create their own Ferrari-inspired cars using Lego bricks and pit them against other guests’ creations on a series of ramps. The Race Track zone also allows those builds to be scanned and brought into a digital world, where they can be raced virtually. While Ferrari has not indicated any plans to sell the Lego 12Cilindri Spider, the road-going fixed-roof coupe starts at a little over $460,000. The 12Cilindri remains one of the few V12-powered cars still available in the U.S. market, including models such as the Lamborghini Revuelto and its SUV sibling, the Purosangue. Ferrari View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Nine minutes to fully charge an EV and drive 600 miles isn't a marketing exaggeration. It required BYD to rebuild nearly everything to bring EV charging on par with the time taken to fuel up an internal combustion engine vehicle. The foundation of BYD's Flash Charging is a 1,000V electrical architecture that lets the system push enormous power without the current climbing to dangerous levels. Nothing about this was off-the-shelf. BYD had to manufacture components that simply didn't exist. There's a new generation of silicon carbide power chips rated to 1,500 volts, redesigned electric motors, reworked motor controllers, and even a new HVAC system built to handle the thermal consequences of dumping a megawatt into a battery. The chargers themselves, now rated at up to 1,360 kW, suspend cables from overhead towers so drivers don't wrestle with the weight of cables thick enough to carry that kind of load. The Chemistry Change That Makes Speed SafeAt the cell level of the Blade Battery 2.0, BYD shifted from standard lithium iron phosphate to lithium manganese iron phosphate, picking up roughly 5 per cent more energy density while holding onto LFP's thermal stability. What makes fast charging dangerous is heat, specifically the heat generated when ions move rapidly through a battery's internal resistance. BYD's FlashPass ion transport system cuts the internal resistance of its LFP cells by 50 per cent, which directly reduces heat buildup during charging, letting the pack accept far higher currents than before. The electrodes, electrolytes, and separators have all been redesigned around this goal. The result is a cell that can sustain a charge rate of 10C, more than double what the fastest American EVs manage at peak. Denza View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Heat Management Is Where This Either Works or Doesn’tAccepting a megawatt without cooking the battery is the actual hard problem. BYD's answer is a direct refrigerant cooling system that keeps cell temperatures in check even during the most aggressive charging window. The company claims the reworked Blade Battery 2.0 delivers a 35 per cent improvement in high-temperature lifespan, which is a meaningful claim if it holds up under independent testing. The warranty terms are reportedly unchanged from the original Blade Battery. That's a promise that will be tested hard once real-world users start fast charging this way daily. Of course, widespread coverage will take time, considering everything that's been re-engineered to make EV charging as quick as fuelling up a gas car, but the promise it brings is worth it. View the full article

Ferrari is once again pushing the boundaries of what a combustion engine can be. Just when we thought its oval-piston concept was radical, a newly surfaced patent reveals that it was only the tip of the iceberg. This time, the brand is rethinking the V12 from the ground up to ensure its survival in an electrified future. Rewriting the V12 Rulebook USPTO USPTO In essence, the new twelve-cylinder replaces one large engine with two smaller inline-six units, each with its own electric motor, positioned in a V-like layout but operating independently. Since these are not mechanically linked to their own crankshafts, the engines can run either synchronously or asynchronously, meaning they can spin at different speeds depending on demand. By decoupling the engines from a traditional drivetrain layout, Ferrari can mount them at wider, unconventional angles that better follow the car’s body shape. The result is a wider, shorter powertrain that will allow for improved aerodynamic efficiency, a lower center of gravity, and a lack of bulky transmission components. In theory, this could lead to a tighter, stiffer chassis. But are the pros enough to outweigh the cons? No Mechanical Link to the Wheels USPTO USPTO The biggest departure from Ferrari tradition is how power is delivered. In this setup, the combustion engines don't drive the wheels whatsoever. Instead, they function as generators, supplying energy to an electric drivetrain that ultimately powers the car. In effect, this turns whatever supercar it'll live in into a high-performance extended-range electric vehicle (EREV). Not very Ferrari, is it? There is one sliver of good news, though. Because the engines don't power the wheels and operate on their own, Ferrari can control their behavior more freely – adjusting revs, load, and sound regardless of vehicle speed. In other words, the two inline-six engines will still make noise and give you the illusion of gear shifts. Still, some noise is better than no noise, albeit synthetically generated. Still Worthy of The Prancing Horse Emblem? Bring a Trailer Cars and Bids We've seen hybrid Ferraris like the SF90 and 296 GTB before – they're not what you'd typically associate with Maranello's finest, but not completely sacrilegious creations, either. An EREV Ferrari, on the other hand? That's a hard pill to swallow, especially considering fans already aren't very fond of the idea of an all-electric Ferrari. Although we're delighted Ferrari isn't abandoning the V12 as a whole, we're not sure digitizing it will be sufficient to match the current 12 Cilindri's 6.5-liter unit's scream, and whether the "virtual" gearbox will be enough to meet Ferrari fanatics' standards, especially since it won't power the wheels at all. From an engineering perspective, the patent is innovative and promising, but it might be a step too far from the brand we all know and used to love. View the full article

A Buffer for Big-Money OrderRolls-Royce may be known for attracting some of the wealthiest buyers in the car market, but the British luxury marque does not appear to be leaning into that amid global conflicts and shifting market conditions. According to CarsDirect, a bulletin sent to Rolls-Royce dealerships introduced a new Client Order Rate Guarantee, covering up to a 2-percent APR increase between the time a vehicle is ordered and when it is delivered. Such a program is crucial for Rolls-Royce, as long wait times are common due to the brand’s meticulous build and customization process. Many models are so bespoke that they are produced in ultra-limited numbers and offered by invitation only to select, high-profile clients. It is worth noting, however, that the program applies only to the 2026 Cullinan, Ghost, and Spectre, leaving out the brand’s flagship, the Phantom. Rolls-Royce Not a One-Size-Fits-All ProgramThe bulletin did not explain why the Client Order Rate Guarantee is limited to select models. However, CarsDirect suggested this could be because the Cullinan, Ghost, and Spectre sell better than the Phantom, meaning the automaker may be prioritizing models with higher demand. In 2025, the Cullinan was Rolls-Royce’s best-selling model, accounting for 3,291 of the brand’s 5,664 deliveries. That is hardly surprising given the significant demand for crossovers and SUVs, which has pushed even legacy brands to launch unprecedented models such as the Ferrari Purosangue and the Lamborghini Urus. The all-electric Spectre followed with 1,002 units sold, as the automaker reiterated its commitment to EVs despite softer demand. The Ghost sold 993 units last year, nearly three times as many as the Phantom. Rolls-Royce The Cost of CertaintyIn addition, the Client Order Rate Guarantee caps lease rate increases at 0.00080, equivalent to about 1.92 percent. The report states that the Spectre includes 3.29 percent APR financing for 72 months, while the Cullinan and Ghost are available with 3.49 percent APR for the same term. These initiatives should help reduce uncertainty and encourage earlier orders, at least among an exceptionally small pool of buyers. For reference, Rolls-Royce’s entry-level model, the Ghost, starts at well over $350,000 in the U.S., with pricing said to go up to about $28 million for the Boat Tail, an ultra-limited model of which only three examples were produced. Rolls-Royce View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Ford has spent the better part of a decade stepping away from affordable compact cars like the Fiesta, Focus, and Fusion in favor of larger, higher-margin SUVs. With fuel prices fluctuating and new car costs climbing steadily, there is renewed interest in something simpler, smaller, and more attainable. With Ford planning to introduce a sub-$40,000 four-door car to the US market, the idea of an affordable Ford sedan returning makes perfect sense. A Global Platform Ford Can Actually UseWhen Ford phased out its compact cars, it did so because SUVs and pickups were delivering far stronger returns. That decision paid off, with Ford currently ranking as the third best-selling automaker in the US. Still, the company never completely walked away from sedans on a global level. The Ford Mondeo remains in production in China and has just been updated. It rides on the C2 platform already shared with models like the Bronco Sport and Maverick, which means the groundwork is largely done. Bringing a version of that car to North America wouldn't require starting from scratch, making it far more realistic than many might expect. Sedans Still Sell, Even If SUVs Steal The SpotlightThere’s no denying that SUVs dominate the market, but that doesn’t mean sedans are irrelevant. Brands like Toyota and Nissan continue to prove that point year after year. The Toyota Camry is Toyota's second best-selling model, sitting just behind the Toyota RAV4 – America's best-selling car. Over at Nissan, the Nissan Sentra also secures second place, topped by, you guessed it, the Rogue in overall sales. Sedans may not be the dominant force they once were, but they still appeal to buyers looking for a more traditional driving experience Getty Images Ford CEO Sees A Sedan In The FutureJim Farley has already made it clear that sedans are not off the table. The challenge, as always, is profitability. But it might not be as difficult as you might expect. Using an existing global platform, like the Mondeo, combined with Ford's cost-effective electric powertrain, could allow Ford to re-enter the segment without pricing themselves out of the market. Seeing as Ford loves to rehash past cult models' nameplates, we wouldn't be surprised if it's called the Fusion or Taurus – the Crown Victoria name isn't out of the question, either. Ford’s SUV-heavy lineup isn’t going anywhere, but adding the right sedan back into the mix could create a more balanced lineup. View the full article

More Than Just HorsepowerA report from The Register states that Micron Technology CEO Sanjay Mehrotra predicted on a company earnings call that an SAE Level 4 automated driving system would require more than 300 GB of RAM. That level of capability would help ensure sensors, cameras, and lidar work together to enable near-fully autonomous driving within specific operating conditions. That is a huge amount of memory. Most videos shared online can be edited on a computer with as little as 16 GB of RAM, while more professional workflows may require 32 GB or more. By comparison, today’s vehicles typically use far less memory, with averages around 16 GB. Such a jump in memory demand could drive up costs, especially as AI adoption accelerates, while also putting pressure on global memory supply. The Cost FactorConsidering current market conditions, Level 4 autonomy may still be years away. Even Level 3 systems, which allow eyes-off, hands-off driving in certain conditions, are struggling to justify their costs as demand remains limited. BMW, for example, reportedly dropped its optional Personal Pilot L3 system from the 7 Series. There are already Level 4 vehicles operating on public roads, most notably those used by robotaxi companies such as Waymo. Tesla also plans to enter this segment with its so-called Cybercab, which it says will be a two-seater designed for a fully autonomous robotaxi service. But of course, these companies deploy their vehicles as revenue-generating assets, which helps justify the high cost of Level 4 technology. In mainstream, road-going models, however, that same cost would be harder to absorb and could translate into higher prices for consumers. Getty Images The Rise of Intelligent MachinesIn addition to cars, Micron Technology’s CEO also pointed to robotics as another use case for 300 GB of RAM. If robots become the next major technological breakthrough, they could further strain the global memory supply. Tesla is one automaker already pushing into this sector and, according to recent reports, is discontinuing the Model S and Model X to make room for production of its Optimus humanoid and Cybercab robotaxi. It remains to be seen how this will play out, though it does seem to be where the market is heading. As automation becomes more central to modern vehicles, cars once criticized for lacking driver aids, such as the Dodge Viper, may start to look more appealing to purists. Tesla View the full article

In the entire history of the NASCAR, only 34 of the nearly 3,000 drivers who have started a Cup race have reached that milestone. Brad Keselowski is about to become the 35th at Martinsville Speedway. The 42-year-old champion and RFK Racing co-owner is nursing a leg injury early in the 2026 season, but he's still fully capable of competing at a high level, finishing fifth in the Daytona 500 ...Keep readingView the full article

Labels Matter More Than You ThinkMost people overlook the small sticker on the door jamb, but it matters more than you’d think. That load capacity label tells you how much weight your vehicle can safely handle after the factory adds accessories. It’s not just a suggestion; it’s a safety guideline that affects how your SUV or truck behaves when loaded up. This time, several Toyota and Lexus models rolled out of the factory with labels that don’t match the real numbers. The problem comes down to a miscalculation of how much weight the factory-installed accessories actually add. As a result, the load capacity listed on the sticker might exceed what’s safe. That’s led to a recall for thousands of vehicles in the US, and possibly elsewhere. At first, it sounds minor. It’s just a label. But if you trust that number and load up your vehicle for a road trip or a weekend project, you could end up carrying more than the suspension and brakes were designed to handle. Toyota What’s Affected and What Went WrongAccording to the report published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall covers a wide range of models, from full-size trucks to hybrid SUVs. Affected vehicles include the Toyota Tundra, Tacoma, Sequoia, RAV4 Hybrid, Land Cruiser Hybrid, and Grand Highlander, as well as Lexus models such as the TX, NX, and GX. Production dates span roughly from April 2024 through late 2025, depending on the model. All in, more than 8,000 vehicles are affected, though the numbers vary by model. The Lexus GX550 makes up a big chunk of the recall, while some Lexus TX versions are only involved in small numbers. The root of the problem is a software glitch. The system that calculates the weight of the accessories got it wrong, so the labels showed a higher load capacity than they should. In some cases, the difference is more than 1%. That might sound like a small margin, but it matters. If you follow the label and load up to the limit, you could be pushing the vehicle past what it can safely handle. That means more risk if you need to stop quickly or swerve in an emergency. Toyota Fixing the ProblemThe fix is relatively simple. Owners will be asked to bring their vehicles to a Toyota or Lexus dealer, where the old label will be swapped out for a corrected one, free of charge. Toyota and Lexus plan to send out notification letters between early and mid-May 2026, depending on the model. Once you get the letter, you can book a visit to have the label replaced. For now, there’s no need to park your vehicle, but it’s worth keeping an eye on how much you’re hauling, especially if you often carry heavy loads or lots of passengers. Lexus View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

It's not everyday a 37-year-old Late Model star gets his shot on the national stage in NASCAR, but Lee Pulliam did on Saturday. Making his debut at the secondary level of NASCAR, Pulliam started 12th after qualifying was rained out. He was quiet for the first part of the race, and JR Motorsports team co-owner Dale Earnhardt Jr. was on the No. 9 pit box, coaching him via the radio. The first ...Keep readingView the full article

After taking the lead on a late-race restart, Justin Allgaier held on to win for the 31st time in his NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts (NOAPS) career, and the third time this season. His victory at Martinsville means that JR Motorsports has managed to win the last five consecutive races. Corey Day finished second, Sammy Smith third, Sheldon Creed fourth, and Lee Pulliam fifth in his O'Reilly Series ...Keep readingView the full article

The DauertestOur German readers are most probably familiar with the dauertest performed by Auto Bild. The brief? The publication purchases a car, flogs it for 100,000 kilometers, and dismantles it after the testing period. Granted, 62,000 miles doesn't sound like a lot, but do note that we're talking loads of instrumented testing miles, and even more on the autobahn. Auto Bild has been doing that for decades, and it's not just with regular cars, either. A few years ago, it purchased a G80 BMW M3 for the dauertest, and the results were, erm, surprising. BMW (Almost) Zero FaultsIt probably helped that the magazine purchased the simplest version of the car around. The car tested was a non-Competition model, rear-drive, and came with an honest-to-goodness manual transmission. It managed to rack 100,000 kilometers from October 2021 to November 2023, so that's roughy 4,770 miles per month. The engine teardown showed little to no signs of wear, and even the timing chain guides were in good condition. There were no leaks, hairline cracks, or scratches in the cylinder walls, which is impressive given it was driven hard. It had some heat spots on the clutch, likely due to the standing starts for testing, but it was still good for another 30,000 kilometers (18,461 miles). No glitches were reported in the infotainment system, nor were there any electrical maladies reported. Brakes and suspension components also held up despite repeated track tests. The only fault mentioned was creasing in the seats. BMW Surprisingly Not FragileIn the publication's own words (translated from German), "None of the nearly 200 cars in Auto Bild's long-term tests over the past 30 years have ever completed the test so flawlessly and reliably." Funnily enough, the M3 proved more resilient and reliable compared to the standard 3 Series (320d xDrive Touring) that also underwent the dauertest. Overall, it ranked second in the last 97 cars that were endurance tested since 2014. The only car that beat it was the CNG-powered version of the previous-generation Audi A3. It's worth noting that Auto Bild also tested the last Audi RS 4, but a worn guide rail and a leaking crankshaft seal prevented it from earning a perfect score. BMW Where Are the Usual Reliability Kings?That's a very valid question. Based on the list we saw, Toyota/Lexus and Honda seem to suffer from minor (cosmetic) corrosion issues in Germany. The magazine hasn't tested a Subaru in ages, and the lone entry, a diesel-powered Crosstrek, ranks 96th due to persistent drivetrain and powertrain problems. From what we've seen, it's Mazda and Suzuki that have consistently performed well in the dauertest, consistently outranking similar Toyota and Honda products. We also noticed that Auto Bild seems to favor both generations of the CX-5, putting it way ahead of the Honda CR-V. Of course, experiences vary by customer and country. Location of final assembly is also a factor, as well as the owner's adherence to maintenance and general care. This test doesn't mean the M3 is the most reliable car in the world, but rather shows that it can rack up a good number of miles in a short time with few worries. View the full article

Lee Pulliam was making his NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts debut on Saturday, driving the No. 9 JR Motorsports Chevrolet. He was very impressive, leading some laps and restarting second inside 20 laps to go. However, he proceeded to miss a shift from the outside of the front row, triggering a massive chain-reaction crash on the frontstretch. His teammate Carson Kvapil ran directly into the back of ...Keep readingView the full article

Widening PortfoliosVolkswagen Group was once considered the world's largest automotive group, housing some of the most important car brands ever made. As time progressed, the once-pragmatic auto giant took risks and gambles by separating and launching smaller brands to serve specific markets. Cupra is one of the brands. What used to be just a variant or model is now a standalone maker and seller, think of it like the Century for Toyota, or the upcoming Freelander for JLR. However small Cupra is, the brand has big dreams and is eager to make a splash in the American pond. Seat Bringing More Excitement To AmericaThe Cupra name translates to "Cup Racing." As such, when the brand spun off into its own thing, it harnessed that history for its own products, aiming to bring out cars and SUVs that are exciting to look at and, most importantly, drive. In 2024, Cupra announced that a planned U.S. entry by the end of the decade was in the works, and many people were excited. Then came 2025, widely regarded as one of the most challenging and pivotal years in automotive history, posing challenges across the entire industry. These challenges cause Cupra to walk back its planned debut, stating the ongoing challenges as the reason. We can imagine the Middle East conflict is now also putting a damper on Cupra's plans. It seems that Cupra is still eager to establish a U.S. foothold, as a key company executive has announced. Brand CEO Marcus Haupt spoke to Edmunds, saying that despite the delay, Cupra is still of the mind that it'll launch in the U.S. "We see the environment that we are living in, with lots of geopolitical changes from one day to another," said Haupt. This has led them to freeze the U.S. plans in the meantime, opting for a more realistic approach in these uncertain times. Seat Moving Away From EVCupra is one of the many brands moving away from an all-EV lineup, which could prove to be a smart move should it finally land in U.S. showrooms, considering the death of the EV tax credits. It also gives Cupra the chance to showcase the core of its cars, which are bred for performance. Currently, the Cupra lineup is extensive, covering most key segments of the automotive industry. The name Cupra was first associated with the faster versions of SEAT products, celebrating notable wins in touring car racing in the late '90s. Road-going versions were also sold, offering Golf GTI performance at much lower cost. Cupra View the full article

The Lamborghini Urus SE plug-in hybrid super SUV starts at around $263,000, making it one of the most expensive SUVs on sale in America. Obviously, very few Urus vehicles are sold in base configuration, as most customers add tens of thousands of dollars in available options, frequently bumping the price to $300,000-$400,000. But what if you’re not satisfied with the extras Lamborghini has to offer? That's what the aftermarket is for, and UK-based firm Urban Automotive has got your back with the new Urus SE Widetrack widebody conversion that has just launched simultaneously in Milton Keynes, UK, and Las Vegas, USA. Widebody Kit Takes Inspiration from Aventador SVJ and Miura Urban Automotive Donning an attention-grabbing Inozetek Gloss Pearlescent Pearl Marigold Orange premium wrap, the Urus SE Widetrack represents a ground-up reimagining of Lamborghini’s hybrid super SUV that took 10,000 hours to design and develop, according to the customizer. The company says the every exterior surface of the Urban Urus SE Widetrack has been refined and enhanced with bespoke carbon fiber components designed and produced in-house. Urban Automotive The front of the vehicle immediately lets you know this is not a factory vehicle. The Urus SE Widetrack features a three-piece carbon fiber splitter with canard end planes and a carbon fiber replacement hood with an exposed and functional ‘bull nose’ vent design inspired by the Aventador SVJ; the 3D printed vent inlets and outlets are finished in Lamborghini's iconic Hex pattern. As the name of the conversion suggests, the kit includes six-piece carbon fiber Widetrack wheel arch extensions with exposed carbon accents that add 40 mm (1.6 in) to the Lambo SUV’s already generous width. In addition, the profile integrates replacement carbon fiber side panels with 3D printed inlays that feature Urban Automotive’s UA logo within the Lamborghini Hex pattern, as well as exposed carbon fiber sill extensions. The latter incorporate an aero feature that is a nod to the legendary Miura's iconic sill air intake. The Urus SE That Never Skips a Workout Urban Automotive Moving over to the rear of the vehicle, the Urus SE Widetrack sports a replacement carbon fiber rear bumper that includes an exposed carbon, double-vented diffuser and separated canard end planes. Rounding off the muscular body kit is a visual carbon fiber roof spoiler on top of the stock spoiler that creates a ‘double stacked’ aero feature; the additional spoiler also features endplates bearing the UA logo. The list of enhancements also includes quad billet exhausts with outer accent details and wide Urban-Vossen UV-1R wheels designed to fill the broadened wheel wells. Urban Automotive The entire Widetrack conversion is priced at a whopping £51,800 in the UK, which is the equivalent of almost $69,000 at the current exchange rate—over a quarter of an Urus SE's base price. For customers who also want a bespoke interior to match the widebody exterior, Urban Automotive offers a choice of colors and materials to make that possible, but that will obviously add to the tally. “Our Urus SE Widetrack styling programme is by far the most technically sophisticated and visually dramatic Lamborghini build we have ever produced,” said Matthew Welch, Managing Director of Urban Automotive. “Launching simultaneously in the UK and USA feels exactly right for a car like this. It will attract customers from around the world to Urban,” he added. No changes have been made in the powertrain department, with the Urus SE featuring the same twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 PHEV system that delivers a combined 789 hp and 701 lb-ft of torque. This enables the super SUV to do 0-62 mph in 3.4 seconds and hit a top speed of 194 mph. Urban Automotive View the full article