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Tesla never ran traditional ads. It didn't need to. For years, a sprawling army of YouTube creators, Twitter evangelists, and forum regulars did the job for free, driven by genuine belief in what the company was building. That grassroots marketing engine was arguably worth billions. Now it's breaking down, and the people powering it are the ones pulling the plug. Content creators who spent years defending Tesla in comment sections, filming road trip videos, and convincing their audiences to make the switch are stepping back. Some are doing it quietly. Others are being very vocal about why. Tesla Europe & Middle East on X Musk's Politics Changed the MathFor a lot of these influencers, the product and the founder used to feel inseparable in a good way. Elon Musk was the visionary, Tesla was the mission, and supporting one meant supporting the other. That equation no longer holds. Musk's increasingly aggressive presence on X, his political positioning, and the controversy that follows him everywhere have made brand association feel costly in ways it never did before. Influencers aren't activists. But their audiences are paying attention, and being seen as a Tesla booster now carries political undertones that many creators never signed up for. Harassment from both sides has become common. The personal cost of staying loyal has simply gotten too high. Tesla’s FSD Burned CredibilityThen there's FSD. Musk has been promising that true autonomy was right around the corner for nearly a decade. Influencers repeated those promises to their audiences. The technology has improved, but it still requires constant driver supervision and remains, technically, a Level 2 assist system. The name alone is misleading. For creators who staked their reputations on Musk's timelines, years of missed predictions left them looking naive, or, complicit, depending on how you view the situation. Tesla Tesla recently sparked fresh outrage by quietly amending its FSD transfer agreement in ways many customers felt were a bait-and-switch. Each broken promise chips away a little more. With real competition now arriving from Hyundai, Rivian, and others, disillusioned fans have somewhere else to go. And they're taking their audiences with them. View the full article

In a tricky qualifying session at Darlington Raceway, Tyler Reddick went fastest of all with a 29.072s lap, even while hitting the wall at the exit of Turn 4. The closest driver to the championship leader in qualifying was the same driver closest to him in the championship standings -- 23XI Racing teammate Bubba Wallace, who ended the session 0.126s behind the pole-sitter. "Gosh, I came off ...Keep readingView the full article

Xiaomi’s EV Play Is No Longer a Side ProjectNot long ago, Xiaomi’s move into cars looked like a side project for a company better known for phones and smart home gadgets. That changed fast– the original SU7 sold really well. The high-performance Ultra version even made headlines by beating established hypercars in controlled tests. Xiaomi has moved past the experimental phase and is now refining what already worked. The new-generation SU7 has been introduced in China, sticking to the same formula – a sleek, tech-focused electric sedan – but adds more performance, smarter features, and a bigger push into premium territory. Xiaomi calls the updated SU7 a “driver’s car for a new era,” with upgrades in safety, driving feel, and cabin comfort. It’s a big claim, but early demand shows buyers are at least interested. Xiaomi 15,000 Units Sold in 34 MinutesXiaomi says it secured 15,000 pre-orders within just 34 minutes of opening reservations. That level of demand isn’t common, even in China’s crowded EV market. It shows Xiaomi’s brand has real pull, and the SU7 already has a following. The new version didn’t need much introduction. The new SU7 starts at 219,900 yuan ($32,000) and tops out at 303,900 yuan ($44,000). That puts it in the premium-but-still-attainable range for buyers looking at high-spec EV sedans. Xiaomi What’s Actually New This TimeThe changes employed on the new-generation model are significant on paper. The Max variant now makes up to 690 horsepower, and range is up across the board – up to 560 miles (CLTC) for the Pro. Charging is faster as well, with up to 416 miles of range added in 15 minutes if conditions are right. Under the skin, Smart Chassis 2.0 now brings dual-chamber air suspension and adaptive damping to more versions, not just the top model. This widens the gap between trims without leaving the base car feeling bare. Inside, Xiaomi has pushed further into the luxury space, with more soft-touch materials, seats with greater adjustability, better sound insulation, and a quieter cabin overall. Details like ambient lighting and a new console design help move the SU7 upmarket. Every model now gets a 700 TOPS computing platform, lidar as standard, and Xiaomi’s latest assisted driving system. Advanced driver assistance is now standard, not just a premium extra. One detail worth noting: Xiaomi dropped the electronic pop-up door system in favor of a setup with built-in redundancy and a mechanical backup. This change is directly linked to ongoing safety concerns. Xiaomi The Controversies Behind the HeadlinesDespite the upgrades, the SU7 arrives with some baggage. Xiaomi has faced scrutiny after reports of a fatal crash involving an earlier model, where electronic door releases reportedly failed. Investigations highlighted the risks of relying on electronic door systems, especially in serious crashes. It’s not just a Xiaomi issue, but the brand has been put under the microscope because of it. The new SU7 aims to fix that. Xiaomi says it now uses a triple-redundant door handle system with a mechanical backup and its own power supply, so doors can still open after a serious crash. There are other safety upgrades as well: stronger 2,200 MPa steel, nine standard airbags, and better battery protection. Xiaomi View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Darlington is the latest race to feature some inspection issues at the start of the weekend. Ahead of NASCAR Cup practice and qualifying, three Cup teams failed inspection twice, resulting in some penalties. They were the #9 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet of Chase Elliott, the #17 RFK Racing Ford of Chris Buescher, and the lone open entry in the field -- the #66 Garage 66 Ford of Timmy ...Keep readingView the full article

In this moment, Denny Hamlin has a contract with Joe Gibbs Racing that has him in the No. 11 Toyota Camry XSE through the 2027 season. That’s 67 more points races remaining to score as many wins as possible and challenge for that elusive NASCAR Cup Series championship. On Monday, he predicted that he would reach 67 career victories after reaching 61 on Sunday at Las Vegas. Why that number? ...Keep readingView the full article

Carson Hocevar wants you to understand he doesn’t think he is Dale Earnhardt but he really appreciates the history of NASCAR and doesn’t shy away from embodying some of those character traits either. He idolizes the late great Driver No. 3. To wit, he really appreciated that primary sponsor Chili’s Bar & Grill wanted to sponsor the spring race at Darlington even if it wasn’t an ...Keep readingView the full article

From Model to Brand IconThere are very few cars that started off as humble models of a brand that would eventually become so iconic as to become the brand itself. Mini represents that status, having been a mainstay of motoring culture since the '60s. It gained fame as a symbol of practical motoring, but also because its simplicity and driving dynamics made it a capable race car, with multiple runs and wins at the Monte Carlo Rally. It was acquired by BMW back in the late '90s, and they decided to revamp the brand and bring it into the new millennium. Mini, as we know it today, is celebrating 25 years, having debuted the next generation in 2001. Mini Rebirth Leads to SuccessIt's a tall order to turn an already iconic brand and model into a whole new brand, but BMW pulled it off, giving the Mini a whole new generation of fans and enthusiasts worldwide. Apart from the rebirth, the model line was also expanded. Through the years, we've seen the Mini in various shapes and forms, from 2-door to 3-door, and even 5-door crossovers. Part of the celebrations is that Mini USA is also marking the brand's 24 years of operations. Prior to the USA launch, the brand staged one of the most memorable publicity stunts in motoring history. In August of 1999, classic Mini owners packed 25 people into the original Mini, setting a new world record for how many people could fit inside the car. The new brand and the Mini officially made their public debuts at the 2001 North American International Auto Show. The past 24 years in America have proved fruitful for Mini; it has sold over 1 million cars since the official start of sales in March of 2002. The very first Mini sold in America was in the Boston area, and it went to a car collector who was captivated by it after seeing it in person. Mini Mini of Today Today, Mini enjoys still relative success as an enthusiast's brand, building cars for a specific set of people who want a piece of that legacy. It has also diversified into EVs using the iconic design and "go-kart" like philosophy to promote electrified models. The brand plans to explore going all-electric by 2030 but reiterates the importance of the internal combustion engine for the foreseeable future. 2025 was also a good year for the automaker in terms of sales, despite a challenging year for most; Mini grew 9.3% compared to 2024. Mini View the full article

Harmless Fun?If you've ever come across those videos on various social media platforms of large crowds and cars doing donuts and showboating on public roads, then you've seen what a street takeover is. It's not a legal event by any means, and it poses a lot of safety issues, but street takeovers are usually easily dispersed once authorities arrive. A recent street takeover has gone viral for taking things too far. What started as a celebration of a special day turned into a violent takeover, ending in multiple arrests and some injuries. Violent 314 Day314 day is a unique but special day in the city of St. Louis, celebrated every March 14 (3/14), which is also the city's area code, hence the celebration. Started in 2006, it was officially recognized by city officials in 2022. 2026 was supposed to be special as it marked the 20th anniversary of 314 days, though things quickly turned grisly. One of the first incidents was reported to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. The callers reported that along Gravois Avenue and MorganFord Road, people were lighting fireworks, blocking traffic with a street takeover, and partaking in reckless driving. Police arrived and found multiple cars blocking the road, but their unmarked car was surrounded by a crowd, impeding their progress. It was also reported that a woman who was hanging out of a moving car was eventually thrown off, but suffered no life-threatening injuries. In an even more shocking turn of events, in other parts of the city, gunshots were fired, which led to an actual firefight. A video from a dashcam has made it to the news, which shows two individuals who were carrying automatic weapons and engaged in a shootout. What makes the video scary is that there were innocent bystanders all around; in fact, the car that provided the dashcam footage was hit by a stray bullet. Both men in the video have been apprehended and charged. KMOV St. Louis/YouTube View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Juvenile MadnessAccording to authorities, multiple street takeovers were popping up across the city, prompting drastic measures to calm the situation. There were even reports of flame throwers in operation in some areas. Police had to use spike strips to help them apprehend over 50 cars in total. During a press conference, a police representative said that most of the people found during the takeovers were juveniles without their parents. As such, the city has implemented a curfew on juveniles for the time being. KMOV St. Louis/YouTube View the full article

Not the Upgrade Toyota Had in MindOne of the biggest complaints about the previous-generation Toyota 86 was its modest factory output of around 200 horsepower. Toyota addressed that with the launch of the second-generation GR86 for the 2022 model year, equipping it with Subaru’s 2.4-liter FA24 boxer engine, which makes 228 horsepower in U.S.-spec form. However, one owner decided to swap it out anyway, replacing it with something a little different – a Honda engine. More specifically, this 2023 GR86 was swapped with a 2.4-liter Honda K24 inline-four. The K-series is well known in the tuning world as a reliable and relatively affordable platform for making more power. According to MA-Motorsports, the shop behind the swap, the decision came after the factory FA24 suffered internal damage when its harmonic balancer broke off. The builder said it wanted to stick with a Japanese replacement engine, but made one thing clear: “No more Subaru.” Bridging Two WorldsThe K24 was installed using a swap kit originally designed for the 86, though the shop said it had to be slightly modified to fit the GR86. The kit also included engine mounts, a fabricated oil pan, and an adapter plate that allowed the car to retain its factory 6-speed manual transmission. Meanwhile, the stock ABS was replaced with a BMW Mk60 from an E46 M3. This build is claimed to produce 240 wheel horsepower, which would translate to a higher figure at the crank. More importantly, it already surpasses the stock output. The vehicle was bought exclusively to serve as a track car, which is obvious from the interior layout. The stripped-out cabin retains only the driver’s seat – an OMP unit – along with a Momo steering wheel and a custom aluminum dashboard. Other equipment includes an ECUMaster PMU-16, a Link CAN keypad, a Link 7-inch display, and an AiM Solo 2 for recording lap times. MA-Motorsports/YouTube The Swap That Makes Sense on PaperMA-Motorsports explained that the K24 was the ideal choice due to a specific horsepower target for a particular class. Beyond that, the K-series is such a popular swap platform that it benefits from far broader aftermarket support – similar to General Motors’ LS engines – compared to sticking with or rebuilding the FA24. The total cost of the build wasn’t disclosed. For context, a brand-new GR86 with the FA24 – shared with the Subaru BRZ – starts at $31,200 in the U.S., excluding destination fees. MA-Motorsports/YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The all-new BMW i3 electric sedan is arguably the most important car launch of the year so far. Whether you like the design or not, the fact that BMW will now sell you an all-electric sports sedan that it deems worthy of the 3 Series nameplate is a pivotal moment for the automaker in particular and for luxury car brands in general. The 3 Series is BMW’s core model that best embodies the brand’s ‘Joy of Driving’ philosophy, and if the new i3 manages to convince die-hard fans that it’s a true 3 Series, BMW will have a big winner on its hands. We’ll just have to wait for the first reviews to come out to see if that’s the case, but until then, here’s an interesting tidbit of information regarding the i3’s design, which could have ended up quite different up front and arguably more controversial. BMW i3 "Looked Too Retro" with Vertical Kidneys BMW Motor1 has learned that the BMW design team explored the possibility of giving the i3 vertical kidney grilles similar to the iX3 electric SUV, the other member of BMW’s Neue Klasse (New Class) of all-electric vehicles. During a recent roundtable interview, BMW Group’s design director, Adrian van Hooydonk, said the experiment did not have the desired result. “We tried [the iX3’s grille] on the 3 Series as well. But we felt that for the 3 Series… if we had put the vertical grille on there, it would have maybe looked too retro, and it wouldn't have been as sporty as it looks today. So we felt that for a sporty [sedan], the horizontal grill fit the character of a 3 Series better,” van Hooydonk said. BMW This will probably come as a relief for many BMW fans, as the Bavarian brand has made some controversial moves in recent years as far as the design of its cars is concerned, particularly when it comes to the shape and size of its kidney grilles. BMW enthusiasts can’t possibly forget the “beaver tooth” kidney grilles fitted to the G80 M3, G82 M4 and the 4 Series, as they were polarizing when they debuted, to put it mildly. Still, while BMW’s design department caught a lot of flak because of that decision, the automaker said the controversy actually was part of the plan and sales remained strong. The BMW iX3 Has Been Criticized Far More Than the i3 for Its Looks BMW Now, when it comes to the BMW iX3 SUV, the vertical kidney grilles are far smaller than on the M3/M4 and 4 Series, so they’re easier to “digest,” although the iX3 has generated its fair share of criticism. Former BMW designer Frank Stephenson, for example, described the grille as “too pinched" and "almost puckered up,” according to BMW Blog. The skinny kidney grilles were also criticized by Car Magazine, which likened them to “Bugs Bunny teeth.” Finally, the rear end of the new BMW iX3 is considered by many as too generic and lacking in BMW character. BMW Of course, all of these comments are subjective, and what matters more is how the market will receive the iX3; so far, things are looking great as BMW recently announced receiving over 50,000 orders in the first 6 months, which is why the Debrecen plant in Hungary is adding a second shift to ramp up production. As for the new BMW i3, it has received far less criticism than the iX3 for its looks, and no one seems to have a problem with the horizontal kidney grilles. The general consensus seems to be that it looks like a BMW should and it’s an attractive-looking sedan. Whether that will be enough to convince traditional 3 Series buyers to go all-electric is a discussion for another time. BMW View the full article

A Quiet Exit, Finally ConfirmedAfter months of silence, JaguarLand Rover has finally confirmed what many suspected. Gerry McGovern, the company’s longtime design chief, will step down at the end of March, Automotive News reports. His two-decade run helped define the look and feel of both Jaguar and Land Rover. Late last year, rumors already circulated that McGovern was out, but JLR kept quiet. Now, the company says he’s leaving on his own terms and will be starting his own creative consultancy. JLR CEO PB Balaji credited McGovern’s influence across the brands, pointing to his role in elevating design as a central pillar of the company’s positioning. McGovern himself described his time at JLR as a privilege, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the company’s output over the years. Of note, Jaguar is in the middle of a major reset, aiming to return as an all-electric luxury brand. McGovern helped set that direction, including work on the Type 00 concept, but he won’t be there when the next generation of Jaguar EVs hits the road. Jaguar Land Rover The Previous ConfusionThis new clarity is a sharp contrast to the confusion just a few months back. In December, reports claimed McGovern had been let go suddenly, with some even saying he was escorted out. The supposed shakeup was linked to changes at the top after Balaji took over as CEO. JLR’s response at the time was short and didn’t offer much. The company denied that McGovern had been fired, but didn’t explain further, which only fueled more speculation about what was really happening inside the company. With so little detail, theories started to spread. Some pointed to internal restructuring, others to creative disagreements, and a few to the mixed reactions to Jaguar’s new design direction. None of these were ever confirmed. Jaguar A Long Legacy, and an Unanswered GapNo matter what happened behind closed doors, McGovern’s influence on JLR is clear. He played a big role in expanding the Range Rover lineup and giving Land Rover a new look, with models like the Evoque and Velar attracting a new set of buyers. His work on the modern Defender stands out. He managed to balance classic Land Rover cues with a more refined, upscale feel. The result was a product that became central to the brand’s image and bottom line. He also helped steer Jaguar toward its next chapter, even if he won’t be there for the launch. The Type 00 concept, which split opinions, marked a clear break from Jaguar’s old design language and pointed to what’s coming next. What’s still unknown is how much of McGovern’s vision will stick. Now that he’s officially out, the focus turns to who steps in next and whether Jaguar and Land Rover will stay the course or make changes as they move further into the EV era. Jaguar View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Jared George traded in his Mercedes-AMG GT for a used but barely-driven 2024 Corvette Z06 with just over 3,000 miles on the clock. Less than a week later, he took it to a Texas dealership for its first oil change. He drove home, noticed an oil drip on his garage floor, and brought it straight back. While the staff was trying to place the car on a lift to diagnose the leak, it slipped. Photos shared to a Corvette owner's Facebook group show the Arctic White Z06 tilted at a steep angle on a two-post lift, its rear end angled toward the floor while the body leaned heavily to one side. With damage extending past the visual of broken fiberglass panels and gouges in the chassis, this $110,000+ Corvette Z06 is likely written off, thanks to a routine workshop visit. Jared Adrian George/Facebook View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Wrong Tool for the JobA two-post lift was the wrong call here. With the C8's mid-engine layout pushing roughly 60 percent of the weight over the rear axle, placing it on a two-post lift demands precise positioning and specific lift pad adapters. Get it even slightly wrong, and the physics are unforgiving. Four-post ramp lifts are far more forgiving for this kind of weight distribution, since the car simply drives onto the ramps and sits there stably. Several C8s have already fallen off lifts because of the heavily weighted rear, and yet two-post setups remain the default in most service bays. The C8 also has frame cutouts that an inexperienced technician might mistakenly identify as jacking points when they are actually tie-down slots used during transport. That confusion, combined with a rear-heavy platform most GM techs have never worked on before, is a disaster waiting to happen. CorvetteBlogger View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Pattern That Keeps RepeatingIn 2020, a red C8 Stingray fell off a lift after being improperly jacked up, and a blue Corvette suffered the same fate a year later in 2021. Then, in September 2023, a red Z06 slipped during a pre-delivery inspection. Now this. Four incidents (that we know of) in five years involving the same platform and the same failure. Enthusiast forums have been warning about this since the C8 launched. Chevrolet The fix isn't complicated. Jacking pucks that clip into the correct frame slots make the lift points immediately obvious, and several forum veterans recommend leaving them on the car permanently so any technician can see exactly where to go. Some owners have even suggested GM should mark the spots with high-visibility indicators from the factory. The C8 is not a difficult car to lift safely. It just requires a technician who actually knows what they're doing, and dealerships, it seems, haven't gotten that message yet. View the full article

Not the First, But Easily the WildestThis isn’t the first time we’ve seen an SUV that tries to double as a pickup. Chery had a concept that blended both, aiming to offer a bit of lifestyle and utility in one package. The Deepal E07 Multitruck takes that formula and adds a few more tricks. The E07 is a full-size electric vehicle, about 16.4 feet long, with a design that leans toward the premium side. What sets it apart is the rear section: with a button or voice command, it opens up into a practical truck bed, complete with a retractable glass roof and tailgate. It comes across as more than just a showpiece; this is a concept that could actually work for daily use. Mazda seems to think so, too. Deepal Mazda Isn’t Saying NoDeepal is owned by Changan, which also happens to be Mazda’s joint venture partner in China. That connection makes this more than just a passing curiosity. Speaking to Carsales, Hiroshi Ozawa of the Changan Mazda technical center described the E07 as “a very interesting vehicle,” adding that it’s something he personally likes and believes could resonate in markets like Australia. Mazda hasn’t made any official announcements, but the fact that it’s not dismissing the idea is worth noting. Mazda doesn’t have its own pickup; the BT-50 is based on the Isuzu D-Max and mainly sold in Southeast Asia. If Mazda were to badge an E07-based model, it wouldn’t replace the BT-50, but it would add something new to their lineup. Performance-wise, the E07 Multitruck’s dual-motor setup delivers up to 591 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque, with a 0–62 mph time of 3.9 seconds. The 90 kWh battery is good for an estimated 317 to 342 miles of range, thanks to its 800-volt system. At about 3,300 pounds, the towing capacity is lower than what most traditional truck buyers might expect. Deepal Mazda’s China Strategy Is Already in MotionEven if Mazda never puts its badge on the E07, the idea fits with Mazda’s current direction. The company is already working with Changan to speed up EV development, with models like the CX-6e SUV and Mazda 6e sedan already making their way to Europe. This approach makes sense for Mazda. Developing EVs is costly, and partnering with a Chinese manufacturer helps Mazda stay competitive without going it alone. A shape-shifting SUV-truck might seem like a niche idea, but it could give Mazda a way to broaden its lineup and meet tougher emissions standards. For now, it’s just a possibility, but it’s one that makes sense. Deepal View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Long gone are the days when Italian exotics had a reputation for being heinously unreliable and bursting into flames if you looked at them the wrong way, but even so, Ferrari faces a recall in 2026. The company has been producing sports cars since 1947, but it still gets things wrong from time to time, and the reason the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has published a recall for the 12Cilindri is comically basic: its rear and side windows have been tinted too heavily. But unlike aftermarket tint that can simply be pulled off and cleaned, Ferrari will have to replace the glass on noncompliant vehicles. That's because this privacy glass was never even meant to reach North America. A Handful of Ferraris with a Federal Headache duPont Registry Specifically, 80 examples of 2025-2026 12Cilindri vehicles are being recalled because "the rear and side windows have less than 70% light transmittance." Obviously, this can obscure or impair driver visibility, but it also means the cars fail to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 205, which applies to glazing materials. The 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 (a rare commodity these days) produces 819 horsepower and catapults the car from rest to 62 mph in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of over 211 mph. With such blistering performance, it helps to be able to see what's around you. Interestingly, it seems that only the U.S. market is affected by this issue, which the recall report says was caused by "a wrong configuration of the model technical features." Related: Ferrari 296 Challenge Stradale Could Outgun the V12 12Cilindri Basically, it looks like privacy glass that may be legal in other countries was inadvertently fitted to cars headed for America. As the above image shows, vehicles with the correct windows kinda mess with the look that Ferrari is going for in blending the glasshouse into the roof, rear quarters, and spoiler. But rules are rules. Customers Must Wait Until May for Their Ferraris to Be Made Legal Ferrari Unfortunately for those who may be accustomed to being attended to at the snap of a finger, Ferrari dealer and customer remedy notifications are only planned to be sent on May 15. That means nearly two months of waiting, though we doubt it will make much difference to their lives. Either they'll ignore the potential (albeit relatively minor) risks that come with driving with glass that's too blackened—the windshield is not affected by this oversight—or they'll simply choose something else to get around in. After all, most Ferrari owners have several cars to choose from. Hopefully, the Ferrari EV, which is named after the Italian word for light, Luce, won't have the same problem. Bad joke. Sorry. Related: I Drove Ferrari’s 296 GTB at Goodwood — Then Learned What Its Battery Promise Actually Costs View the full article

The Maverick Gets Caught in the Recall CycleDue to the high number of recalls in recent years, Ford clarified that its safety campaigns are a proactive and intentional effort to address potential risks. Regardless of how one views it, the latest model affected is the Maverick, which is being recalled over a moonroof that could potentially detach from the vehicle. The defect has been assigned NHTSA recall number 26V157, which states that the moonroof module’s glass panel on certain 2025-2026 Maverick models “may be improperly adhered.” If the panel detaches, it could become a road hazard for other motorists and increase the risk of a crash. Where the Problem StartedThe Ford Maverick, along with the Bronco Sport and Mustang Mach-E, are built in Mexico, which exposes the models to import tariffs. Ford’s South American Automotive Safety Office (ASO) first alerted concerned teams on January 23, 2026, after receiving a report of a moonroof glass detachment in Brazil. After working with members of Ford’s Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly Plant (HSAP), the company traced the issue to the supplier’s “urethane curing behavior.” Fortunately, no accidents or injuries related to the defect have been reported. The recall states that 323 Maverick units are potentially affected, with about 63 percent estimated to have the defect. The vehicles were built between April 15 and April 25, 2025, though Ford noted they were not produced in VIN order. As part of the remedy, owners will be asked to bring their compact trucks to a Ford or Lincoln dealer for an inspection, and if the moonroof module’s build date falls within the suspect manufacturing range, the component will be replaced. Cole Attisha The Path to a FixFord will begin notifying owners about the recall between March 30 and April 3, 2026. Owners can also check whether their vehicle is affected by entering their VIN on the NHTSA website. The moonroof is available as a $995 option on the XLT, Lobo, Lariat, and Tremor, leaving out the base XL model, which starts at $28,145 excluding destination fees. The Hyundai Santa Cruz is the Maverick’s sole competitor in the U.S., though reports say the Korean marque may be preparing to drop out of the segment due to underwhelming sales. Kristen Brown View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The first-ever electric Tiguan is rumored to be replacing the Volkswagen ID.4, and our spies have captured it undergoing testing in Sweden once again. This time, the prototype wears silver paint rather than white and has a slightly more aggressive front fascia, with the lower grille border extending deeper down. Could this be a hint that the high-performance Tiguan R will get an all-electric sibling? It seems unlikely, especially since the brakes don't appear to be any beefier, but stranger things have happened. For now, let's focus on what we do know. This is more than just a facelift fo the ID.4, with insiders reporting that this is such a major update that it may as well be considered a new generation. That will help justify the new non-alphanumeric naming strategy, designed to make EVs seem more congruous with gas vehicles. 2027 VW ID.4 Spied with Obviously Fake Styling SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article As we saw in previous spy shots, the electric crossover has been dressed in camouflage that is meant to evoke the existing ID.4. Any time a manufacturer does this, it's a clear sign that things in the cosmetic department will be anything but unchanged. At the front, the bumper and lower intake grille seen here may be what we get on the production model, but the upper section of the fascia will evolve. Through the silver vinyl, we see the outline of the headlights, which appear to be extending deeper into the front fenders. The small section of the daytime running light is peeking through at the top of the cluster, which suggests each headlight will be connected by a narrow LED strip like on the current ID.4 Unlike the current ID.4, it seems that the headlights will have a bigger gap between each other, and this will be filled with a thicker false grille element, which should make the crossover look more aggressive. Related: Volkswagen’s 2027 Atlas Gets a High-Tech Interior With a Hidden Screen At the rear, the bulges under the fake taillight graphics seem to hint at a continuous light bar that wraps around in a rectangular loop, but we'll have to wait for more camouflage to be removed to be sure. What we can seeis that the lower bumper will be more aggressively styled, with each end gaining a notch that should make the back look more rugged. The overall shape and silhouette of the vehicle are mostly unchanged, but small adjustments like these should increase appeal for the pavement-hopping crowd, particularly in the U.S. Expect VW's New Electric Crossover to Be Revealed Before the End of 2026 SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The new ID.4/ID. Tiguan is expected to arrive for the 2027 model year, which means Volkswagen will probably take the wraps off the electric crossover publicly before the end of this year. The German automaker has already begun sharing images and info about the bigger 2027 Atlas, showing off its interior for the first time this week. That vehicle has a large central infotainment display flanked by a hidden passenger display, and it's possible that a downsized version of this setup may arrive in the new ID.4/ID. Tiguan. We certainly expect physical buttons on the steering wheel, though, as this is something VW buyers have clamored for. We'll bring you more information as we get it, but the new ID.4 will only arrive sometime after the Atlas makes a splash at the New York Auto Show early next month. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade seemingly has it all: good looks, a strong powertrain, and loads of space. But the vehicle that should be a runaway success has an issue that can't be ignored. Hyundai recently told dealers in the U.S. and Canada to stop selling the 2026 Palisade Limited and Calligraphy trims because of a problem with the power seats in the second and third rows, where buyers put their kids. The power-folding system sometimes fails to detect when someone or something is in the way as the seats move, and it's so serious that a young child was tragically killed in a scenario that Hyundai began investigating a week ago. Now, the automaker has issued a recall in collaboration with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Over 61,000 2026 Hyundai Palisade SUVs Recalled Kristen Brown The issue is specific to the abovementioned upper-tier trims of the 2026 Palisade, and the recall applies to 61,093 vehicles, whose one-touch tilt-and-slide or automatic power fold-and-stow functions may fail to detect impediments. Hyundai is taking this very seriously. Along with the stop sales notices, Hyundai has sent texts, emails, and in-vehicle notifications. It's also provided a statement to the media. The recall, warning that power rear seats may trap a person, includes the following advisory: "Owners are advised to exercise caution when operating the second and third row power seat functions until the repair is performed. Children are advised to not be in the rear seats or near the rear seating area during power-folding operation." The recall report notes that an investigation was opened in November last year, which was escalated after the report of the fatality on March 9. Since the issue first appeared, seven incidents of third-row malfunction have been reported, and four reports of minor injury have been reported due to the second-row malfunction. In total, there have been 17 unique vehicles with claims of failure. Unfortunately, Hyundai is still working on a way to permanently resolve the problem. Hyundai Palisade Remedy Being Developed, Temporary Fix Available Kristen Brown For the time being, Hyundai intends to notify owners of a temporary fix available via a software update, which Hyundai Bluelink enrollees can take advantage of remotely, while other customers can come into a dealer for the update. But it will be some time before Palisade owners can relax, as dealers and owners are only expected to be notified of the permanent remedy on May 16. For almost the next two months, an abundance of caution will be prudent. View the full article

Part-time driver (and reigning Truck champion) Corey Heim restarted ninth with two laps to go, but the former Truck champion had slightly fresher tires than those around, immediately going to the bottom and passing several trucks. At that point, Ross Chastain confidently held the lead, and was over half-a-second clear of Heim at the white flag. But the #5 quickly ran him down, blowing by the ...Keep readingView the full article

Another Year, Another Step UpLamborghini kept its momentum going after a record-setting 2024. In 2025, the brand delivered 10,747 cars – its third year in a row above the 10,000 mark. Not long ago, that would have been headline news. Now, it’s just business as usual. Revenue climbed alongside sales, reaching €3.2 billion ($3.7 billion) – up 3.3% from last year and the highest Lamborghini has ever posted. For a brand that doesn’t chase volume, that kind of growth points to strong demand and the ability to command higher prices, not just bigger production. Lamborghini Profit Takes a Slight Step BackA lot of Lamborghini’s growth this year comes down to what the company is selling. The Revuelto leads as the flagship hybrid, while the Urus SE keeps the numbers up. But the real story is customization: 94% of buyers last year chose at least one Ad Personam option – a big reason margins stay strong. It wasn’t all smooth sailing, though. Lamborghini’s operating income landed at €768 million ($888 million), with margins dipping to 24% – a bit lower than last year. According to the company, currency swings and new US tariffs both took a bite out of profits. Add in the ongoing investment in Lamborghini’s electrification plans – part of the Direzione Cor Tauri strategy – and it’s no surprise costs are starting to show up. Even so, a 24% margin still puts Lamborghini near the top of the luxury world. Careful cost management and a strong product mix helped keep things on track, despite the headwinds. Lamborghini Pushing for Hybrids for NowLooking ahead, there’s no sign Lamborghini is slowing down. The new Temerario hybrid is already reaching customers in early 2026, rounding out a core lineup that’s now fully hybrid with the Revuelto and Urus SE. This also hints at what’s next. Lamborghini has a fourth hybrid on the way and is working on its first full EV, but isn’t in a hurry to get there. For now, Lamborghini’s formula is holding: keep volumes low, offer plenty of ways to personalize, and move toward electrification without losing the drama. The results speak for themselves. Lamborghini View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Starting at the Very TopWe all saw it coming, but now it’s confirmed. The first Alpina models under BMW’s full control will be built from the 7 Series sedan and X7 SUV, putting them right at the top of the range. The confirmation came from BMW Group R&D boss Joachim Post in an interview with Autocar, where he outlined the initial direction for what is now effectively “BMW Alpina” following the brand’s transition in-house earlier this year. BMW completed its acquisition of the long-time tuning firm from the Bovensiepen family, formally taking control on January 1. According to Post, the plan is to launch Alpina “from the top of the brand.” That’s a clear signal: Alpina is being set up as a high-end, low-volume choice, not just another performance badge. Technical details are still under wraps, but BMW says it’s keeping options open on the tech front. That means we could see both combustion and electric Alpinas, which makes sense since the 7 Series already comes in both flavors. BMW Alpina Why the 7 Series and X7 Make SenseChoosing the 7 Series and X7 as starting points isn’t just about picking the biggest cars. These two have always been the flagships in Alpina’s lineup, so they’re a natural fit for the brand’s first chapter under BMW. More importantly, these models capture what Alpina is really about. Where BMW’s M cars are all about track days and sharp handling, Alpina has always focused on a different kind of performance – smooth, fast cruising, a comfortable ride, and a level of detail in materials and finish that stands out. BMW’s design chief Oliver Heilmer admitted there were early worries about Alpina and M stepping on each other’s toes. But in reality, they’re aimed at different drivers. M is still the aggressive, purpose-built option, while Alpina is more about maturity, comfort, and a focus on craftsmanship and individuality. BMW Alpina A New Generation is Coming FirstThe timing works out, too. Both the 7 Series and X7 are about to get major updates, with BMW rolling out new design cues and tech from its Neue Klasse direction later this year. That means Alpina’s first in-house models will launch with fresh styling, new interiors, and the latest digital tech – giving them a more advanced starting point than ever before. It also sets the stage for electrification. Since the 7 Series already comes as a fully electric i7, Alpina can jump straight into EV territory without having to reinvent the wheel. BMW View the full article

Rivian is quickly positioning itself as the pioneer in the autonomy space, and its latest deal with Uber shows just how serious those ambitions are. The two companies are teaming up to deploy thousands of fully autonomous vehicles based on the upcoming Rivian R2, forming the backbone of what could become one of the largest robotaxi networks yet. Uber’s $1.25 Billion Bet On Robotaxis Rivian At the heart of the deal is a long-term investment that could see Uber commit up to $1.25 billion to Rivian by 2031. The rollout begins with around 10,000 R2-based robotaxis, expected to hit cities like San Francisco and Miami in 2028. From there, the plan is to scale aggressively, with as many as 50,000 vehicles operating across roughly 25 cities across the US, Canada, and even Europe. But this isn't Uber's only autonomous endeavor; they also confirmed to deploy a fleet of Volkswagen ID. Buzz robotaxis sometime this year, and is reportedly exploring a similar partnership with Nissan. Not All Self-Driving Systems Are Equal Rivian While many automakers plan to add autonomous driving tech into existing platforms, Rivian engineered its R2 to sport hands-free driving from the start. The R2 will blend cameras, radar, and LiDAR with in-house computing to process real-world data at scale, with the end goal of supporting Level 4 autonomy in controlled environments. Rivals, like Waymo and Tesla, on the other hand, are experiencing some headaches with their autonomous driving tech. In fact, Tesla is currently under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration following multiple crashes, including one fatal incident linked to its Full Self Driving system. On top of that, Tesla’s Robotaxi program has logged 14 reported incidents since its June 2025 launch. However, those cars still rely on human drivers, with fully driverless concepts like the Cybercab remaining unrefined. Uber’s Multi-Partner Autonomy Play Getty All of this helps us get a better idea of Uber’s future strategy. Instead of putting all its eggs into one basket, the company is building a diverse ecosystem of partners and platforms from Volkswagen to perhaps Nissan, and now Rivian. If Rivian can deliver on its promises, the R2 robotaxi may end up becoming a cornerstone of Uber’s long-term vision and serve as a real-world example of what autonomous cars should be. View the full article

The level of technological sophistication Chinese vehicles have reached in recent years must have been impossible to anticipate two decades ago, when domestic automakers started making their initial inroads into overseas markets. At the time, ICE vehicles from Chinese brands lagged way behind those manufactured by established automakers from North America, Europe, Japan and South Korea. But the advent of the electric vehicle into the mainstream in the mid 2010s has provided a level playing field between Chinese automakers and their western counterparts, and from then onward, their development accelerated at warp speed in unprecedented fashion for the automobile industry. Today, China is the world’s No. 1 player in EV manufacturing and EV battery manufacturing, and its market is by far the world’s biggest for electric cars. It also controls the majority of global refining capacity for critical EV minerals and dominates the battery supply chain. Chinese automakers produce some of the world’s most high-tech vehicles, and Chinese customers’ fascination with technology is driving a constant barrage of new car tech. But technology for technology’s sake is not always a good idea, as many of you know, especially if you’ve driven a car that has essential vehicle functions hidden in a touchscreen menu or whose pop-out door handles freeze in winter. The Smart Car Version of 'Open Sesame'A car in China can open its doors without touching, but it seems like people aren't ready for that yet 🚗 pic.twitter.com/E8M2akz8qE — Tansu Yegen (@TansuYegen) March 18, 2026 With every new generation, Chinese smart cars are pushing the boundaries of in-car technology, even in areas one would never think necessary, such as the mundane act of opening a car door. For more than a century, people have opened doors by pulling handles, and everything worked out just fine. In recent years, however, the trend of flush-mounted, pop-out door handles has taken over the industry—especially EVs—bringing benefits in aerodynamics and styling. They have also brought safety concerns that we won't go over again; suffice to say China has banned electric pop-out door handles starting January 1, 2027. AITO Meanwhile, there are several car models in China that have transformed the straightforward process of opening a door into a gimmick. Take the Aito M8, for example, a full-size electric luxury SUV whose doors can be unlocked and opened with gestures, without touching anything. A video shared by user @TansuYegen on X.com demonstrates how the technology works, or rather how it doesn’t work if your gestures aren’t interpreted correctly by the system. The short clip shows a sales consultant demonstrating the feature to showroom visitors, who are having a hard time pulling the stunt. It may be fun to experience in a showroom, but what happens in an emergency? Thankfully, the vehicle can be opened the old-fashioned way by pulling the handles; and if the 12-volt battery dies, the physical key opens the driver's door and internal door handles allow passengers to exit. How Does It Work? AITO The Aito M8 has cameras positioned between the front and rear doors that use facial recognition and Huawei’s AI algorithms to track hand movements, allowing users to open or close the doors with a simple gesture, without touching the door handle. Hand gestures can also be used as confirmation commands, enabling the vehicle to reverse automatically into a tight parking space after the driver exits; the same gesture summons the car to drive itself out of a parking spot. AITO AITO, which stands for Adding Intelligence to Auto, is a luxury new energy vehicle (NEV) brand launched in 2021 as a partnership between Huawei and Seres. The Aito M8's triple-screen infotainment setup runs the tech giant’s HarmonyOS, which is the same operating system incorporated in Huawei smartphones, tablets and wearables, enabling them to seamlessly connect to the vehicle. The M8 also features Huawei’s Qiankun ADS 4.0 advanced Level 3 autonomous driving system. The Aito M8 offers both BEV and EREV powertrains, as well as five- or six-seat interior layouts. Prices start around $50,000 in China, where the M8 got 80,000 orders in its first month on the market. AITO View the full article

Practically every data point suggests a drastically different NASCAR Cup Series racing product at Darlington Raceway on Sunday and it’s a direction that drivers have encouraged for quite a bit. The first four years of this car being used at ‘The Track Too Tough to Tame’ came under the same rules package used at intermediate style tracks. That meant a 4” rear spoiler and a more ...Keep readingView the full article

Tuned with a Warranty D-Sport Racing, the performance arm of Daihatsu, has a complete car for sale, undriven, brand-new, and ready for customers with a warranty. It’s based on a Daihatsu Mira e:S, a Kei car that makes about 48 horsepower, and comes equipped with a 658 cc inline three-cylinder gasoline engine. Thanks to the tuners at D-Sport, the limited Mira e:S is available for sale with a turbocharger and a five-speed manual gearbox, but there is a catch – more on that later. Daihatsu is Toyota’s small car division and a supplier of affordable platforms that are ready to be rebadged as Toyotas and shipped to emerging markets. Rebadged Daihatsus are usually found across Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines and Cambodia. Daihatsu Kei Car BasicsJapanese Kei cars are limited to a total displacement of 660 cc and a set of parameters and dimensions regulated by the Japanese government. These cars get special yellow plates and are granted certain tax exemptions or reductions. Ever since, Kei cars have been daily drivers for many Japanese motorists, whether they opt for a small truck, a van, or – of course – a hatchback. To make the most of the displacement available in Kei cars, turbochargers can be fitted to boost power and improve capability, but models like the Mira e:S use naturally aspirated mills. Mitsubishi Daihatsu Specialist D-Sport Racing lives and breathes Daihatsu Kei cars, enough to participate in rally championships and supported by Daihatsu itself. The company has efforts in grassroots motorsports and rally. Since Daihatsu is owned by Toyota, D-Sport racing also benefits from some stuff from Gazoo Racing. They’ve developed a total of four modern Daihatsu race cars at this time, which include the Daihatsu Rocky, Copen GR Sport, and another Copen GR Sport that will serve as the brand’s World Rally Championship (WRC) Japan entry, and finally the Daihatsu Mira e:S. D-Sport Racing The (Kei) CarIn base form, the Mira e:S is an affordable city Kei car aimed at drivers who want an economical way to get around. It’s a naturally aspirated three-cylinder with 658cc displacement, and it comes mated to either a CVT or a five-speed manual transmission. The interior is basic, the car is light, and it’s rather plain-looking, all things considered. On a more interesting note, “e:S” stands for “energy Saving,” which means it has start-stop functions, improved aerodynamics, and reduced weight. The complete car – received, modified, and delivered by D-Sport Racing – uses a special 5MT Turbo variant of the Mira e:S. Exclusive to this variant of the Kei car are an intercooler-turbo engine with the designation KF-VET, a dedicated ECU, a five-speed manual transmission, a floor console, a chrome-plated shift knob, a six-point roll cage with side bars, a front super limited-slip differential, brake calipers, front ventilated discs, 14-inch center caps on black steel wheels, a D-Sport Racing emblem, and a special serial number sticker. The turbocharger boosts engine performance from 48 horsepower to 63 horsepower, and turbocharged torque is at 67.8 lb-ft. Knock your socks off, it won't, but when you factor in the weight of the car, which comes in at just 1,565 pounds (710 kilograms), that output increase will be quite sizeable. D-Sport Racing Price and FreebiesSo if you want to buy this car in Japan, prepare around 3,057,549 Japanese Yen (¥3,057,549) after taxes, to be exact. What you get for that money is the Daihatsu Mira e:S tuned by D-Sport Racing, which is based on registered, unused vehicle, all the special parts and tuning, plus, a general warranty period of three years or 37,000 miles (60,000 kilometers) for the base vehicle and a one-year or 12,400 miles (20,000 kilometers) warranty on all the modified parts. In dollars, that translates to around $19,300, which is quite a pretty penny for a pretty little hatchback. The catch is that by buying this car, you’re also agreeing not to sell it within one year after delivery. On top of that, there is a lottery system for the sale of this vehicle. By entering, you will only get the chance to win the opportunity to purchase this vehicle. Though the bigger question is, would you pay this much for a souped-up 660cc pocket rocket? I know some people might. D-Sport View the full article

A New Flagship Coupe with Old-School AttitudeBrabus has never been subtle, and its latest teaser proves the German tuner is not about to start now. A shadowy social media preview introduced the world to the upcoming Brabus Bodo V12, a front-engined coupe that looks poised to sit at the very top of the brand’s portfolio. The reveal was intentionally vague, but two details stood out immediately: a sleek grand touring silhouette and a prominent ’77’ insignia, referencing the year Brabus was founded in Bottrop, Germany. Named after founder Bodo Buschmann, the Bodo V12 feels like a deliberate throwback to an era when excess was the point. Early indications suggest a long-hood, short-deck proportion with a dramatic stance, echoing some of the most iconic grand tourers of the past. If Brabus follows its own legacy, this won’t just be about styling theatrics, but outright performance, now widely expected to be anchored by a V12 platform derived from the Aston Martin Vanquish. Vanquish Roots and Maybach-Inspired DramaA report from TheSupercar Blog has already pulled the curtain back further, thanks to leaked images that give us a much clearer look at the Brabus Bodo V12. At first glance, the coupe appears larger and more elongated than a typical SL-based build, leading to speculation that it may instead share its underpinnings with the Aston Martin Vanquish. The windscreen rake, window line, and even the side mirrors all closely resemble the V12-powered Vanquish, strengthening that theory. Visually, the Bodo leans heavily into dramatic design cues. There is a pronounced shark-nose front end paired with an impossibly long hood, while the rear fenders are aggressively flared to give the car a planted, almost menacing stance. Around the back, quad LED taillights flank a central Brabus script, sitting above a stacked quad-exhaust setup that leaves no doubt about the car’s intentions. There are also hints of inspiration from the Vision Maybach 6, particularly in its proportions and sweeping roofline, blending luxury elegance with tuner aggression. The Supercar Blog A V12 Statement in an Electrified WorldBrabus has built its reputation on turning already fast cars into borderline absurd machines, and the Bodo V12 looks like a culmination of that philosophy. From the legendary 7.3S to countless AMG-based monsters, the brand has always thrived in the space where engineering meets excess. In an industry rapidly pivoting toward electrification and efficiency, cars like the Bodo V12 serve a different purpose. They are emotional anchors, reminders that performance is not just about numbers, but about character, sound, and presence. Fuel prices may fluctuate, and regulations may tighten, but there will always be a place, however niche, for machines that exist purely to push boundaries, and few do that better than Brabus with a V12 under the hood. The Supercar Blog View the full article