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This weekend, NASCAR heads to Darlington Raceway for the first of the track's two Cup races this year. The historic track is one of the most difficult (and exciting) on the schedule, and has hosted Cup races since 1950. The South Carolina track will play host to the sixth round of the 2026 NASCAR Cup season, and we've already been given a glimpse of some of the throwback schemes teams will be ...Keep readingView the full article

Garrett Mitchell, who is better known as YouTuber Cleetus McFarland, recently sent shockwaves through the NASCAR garage after signing a two-year deal to race part-time for Richard Childress Racing in the O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS). Mitchell, who has a YouTube channel with nearly five million subscribers, made his professional stock car racing debut just last year in the ARCA Menard's ...Keep readingView the full article

The Joe Gibbs Racing v Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports lawsuit heard arguments over expedited discovery motions in court on Monday morning before Judge Susan Courtwright Rodriguez. The docket also called for arguments over a preliminary injunction motion but all parties in court agreed that the discovery motion’s importance was of greater priority and the results could affect the course ...Keep readingView the full article

The Macan was one of Porsche's best-selling products, but due to the last-gen architecture's inability to meet European cybersecurity laws, it was discontinued early. It's still on sale in the United States for the time being, with a starting price of $65,400, but it's aging, and its all-electric replacement is proving less popular than the automaker would like, so Porsche has been testing a new gas crossover, which the Autoblog spy photographers have captured in new images. At first glance, the development mule looks like a regular Audi Q5, but its suspension has been raised and it wears wheel arch flares; our spies say this widened, lifted prototype heralds the Macan's replacement, whose name is yet to be announced. A couple of potential nameplates have been rumored, though. Hybrid Power for Porsche's New Macan Replacement SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Porsche has committed to keeping gas engines alive, and this development mule will be powered by them (four-cylinder and V6 turbo options are expected), though it won't renounce electric power completely, with a yellow triangle decal visible in the windshield indicating a hybrid powertrain. The Macan replacement will be built atop the Volkswagen Group's Premium Platform Combustion architecture, a platform shared with the Audi Q5 and capable of plug-in hybrid power. But with a reveal only expected in 2028 and prototypes already being spied, it's clear that Porsche will be infusing its own DNA in the crossover, not simply rebadging what Audi has created. Similarly, Porsche intends to introduce its own three-row SUV with differences between it and the Audi Q9. SH Proshots/Autoblog We can also expect some meaningful differences in the gas Macan replacement's cabin, but our spies haven't been able to get close enough to a prototype to give us a preview yet. Hopefully, the Macan's successor won't be as heavy on screens as the most recent Porsche SUV, the Cayenne EV, but we doubt it'll be particularly analog in there, as the 2026 Q5 has an 11.9-inch digital driver display flowing into a 14.5-inch central infotainment touchscreen, with another 10.9-inch display for the person riding shotgun available as an option. Porsche Is Flailing, Could Introduce New Naming SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Porsche has not been doing particularly well recently, with profits falling a whopping 92 percent, prompting a new round of job cuts. As one means of trying to increase profitability, Porsche is reportedly considering merging the electric Taycan and gas Panamera, potentially with a new name. Despite this, it appears that the Macan nameplate will become exclusive to the EV, with a new name coming for the gas crossover's successor. Consolidating two model lines into one seems to be sensible, so adding a new name for the combustion crossover seems odd, but Porsche has heavily marketed the Macan as an EV, and reintroducing a gas crossover with the Macan name could confuse buyers. Our spies have overheard the names Cajun and Octan for the new vehicle, but it's too soon to know if Porsche will use either of these. Hopefully, we'll get more info in the coming months. View the full article

A Design That Sparked DebateTesla helped mainstream flush-style door handles by pairing their minimalist look with aerodynamic benefits, as the design sits more cleanly within the bodywork. Over time, however, issues with the design have surfaced, with the problem being linked to at least 15 deaths in crashes where doors could not be opened after impact, with some occupants reportedly trapped inside vehicles that later caught fire. Now, a 2023 Tesla Model S owner has filed a class-action lawsuit against the EV maker, alleging that the vehicle’s exterior and interior door handles are defective. According to Car Complaints, the suit further claims that the company concealed the defects from customers. Aside from the alleged safety risk, the plaintiff, Robert L. Hyde, argued that he suffered “economic injury,” claiming the door-handle design reduces the EV’s value even though he was never involved in an accident. Tesla Finding the Way OutAs with most cases involving the flush-style door-handle issue, the lawsuit highlights that losing power could prevent the doors from being opened from the outside. It acknowledges that while the front doors can be easily opened in an emergency, the manual release for the rear doors is hidden beneath the carpet, which could cause passengers to panic and struggle to locate it. The lawsuit represents owners of Model S EVs from the 2023 model year to the present. As for Hyde, he claims that Tesla has refused to replace his vehicle or refund his money, and also alleges that the automaker has declined to fix the purported defects. Tesla Taking Tesla to CourtHyde filed the class action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. While the outcome of the case remains uncertain, the days of flush-style door handles may already be numbered. In China, a new safety standard will ban the use of such designs – along with the yoke steering wheels seen in Tesla EVs – starting January 1, 2027. Given that the country is the world’s largest car market, the rule could force automakers to allocate resources toward redesigns if they want to remain competitive there. It is also worth noting that Tesla is ending production of the Model S and Model X to free up factory space for its humanoid robot project, Optimus. Tesla View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

There is something counterintuitive, bordering on offensive, about cutting the fenders off a Ferrari and bolting on riveted overfenders. Yet that contradiction is exactly why Liberty Walk works. The Japanese tuner built its reputation on taking pristine supercars and applying the deliberately reckless aesthetic of kaido racer culture, the loud, exaggerated car styling that came out of Japan's 1980s street scene. When Liberty Walk's widebody Murciélago appeared at SEMA in 2009, it violated a sacred rule of car culture: you simply do not cut up a Lamborghini. The tension between prestige and aggression is exactly why, nearly two decades on, people are still lining up to get their exotics cut up by Liberty Walk. Barrett-Jackson View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The Man Who Started Cutting SupercarsWataru Kato founded Liberty Walk in 1993, starting out in a small garage that could barely fit three cars. He spent years selling kits for kei cars before the idea crystallised: take the wide-overfender philosophy he had grown up admiring on the streets and apply it to Ferraris and Lamborghinis. The first Liberty Walk Murciélago caused immediate, polarising reactions. People either loved it or wanted to have Kato arrested. Liberty Walk has since applied the formula to the Nissan GT-R, Mazda Miata, and even the Honda Civic Type-R, but that split opinion has never gone away. They are not alone in this space. Rival Japanese tuners like Rauh-Welt Begriff (RWB) and Rocket Bunny have built devoted followings doing much the same thing to Porsches and sports cars, but Liberty Walk remains the most recognisable name in the game, in part because of the cars it targets and because of the spectacle they create. Liberty Walk View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Kato has said his guiding philosophy is smiles and positive energy, which is a pleasantly dissonant worldview for someone who makes a living destroying factory bodywork. The brand's cultural reach has extended well beyond the cars themselves. Liberty Walk has collaborated with MiniGT, Tarmac Works, Inno64, and Hot Wheels to produce scale replicas of its most famous builds, meaning a widebody GT-R or Ferrari 458 now lives on the desks of enthusiasts who will never get near the real thing. What It Actually CostsNone of this controversy would matter much if Liberty Walk builds were cheap. They aren't. The most extreme kits replace nearly every exterior panel on the car. A full dry carbon Silhouette GT conversion for a Lamborghini Aventador can approach $200,000 before installation. Kits for Ferraris and McLarens can cost between $35,000 and $60,000, again before a single wrench has turned or a fender has been cut. Add paint, suspension, wheels, and labour, and a finished build can easily add $100,000 to the cost of the car itself. Liberty Walk View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Resale Is Its Own ProblemThe value question has no better example than when YouTuber Emelia Hartford received an offer on her Liberty Walk Ferrari 458 Italia from a Ferrari dealership. She had paid $140,000 for the car, then poured in the Silhouette GT kit, KW coilovers, Forgeline wheels, custom exhaust, and labour across multiple build videos. A San Diego dealer came back with an offer of $350,000, citing a ready buyer. She turned it down. The comments split exactly as they always do around Liberty Walk. One commenter put it plainly: "Take the money and run. Cars like yours are very buyer-specific." That is the honest truth about trying to sell a Liberty Walk build. The buyer pool narrows dramatically, and the one person willing to pay full price for someone else's vision may not ever materialise. Sure, Liberty Walk builds are unforgettable, but whether cutting a supercar up makes one better is still up for debate. View the full article

Surrounded by his family, Denny Hamlin secured an emotional win at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, taking sole ownership of tenth place on the all-time wins list and breaking a tie with Kevin Harvick. It was a race dominated by Joe Gibbs Racing and Hendrick Motorsports, with their drivers combining to lead 253 of 267 laps. Impressively, there was only one natural caution during the entire event, and ...Keep readingView the full article

Going the Extra MilesNowadays, we're more used to the idea that cars are disposable. As cars become more like appliances, people aren't as eager to keep them for the long run, and generally change cars every five years or so. Back then, cars meant more to certain people; some owners viewed their cars as partners, and in some cases, partners for life. We are sometimes lucky to come across news of high-mileage vehicles that have stayed with the same owner for countless decades. One such gem of a story has just come up, about one man and his humble pickup truck. Million Mile Chevy TruckA video featuring Danny Hudson from Corsicana, Texas, is posted on the official YouTube page of General Motors. Simple town, simple truck, but Danny's story gets interesting once you find out that he's done over a million miles on his 1973 Chevrolet C10 Stepside 454. Danny bought this truck when he was 21 years old and has kept it ever since. When asked how he accumulated the miles, he explained that he's a certified technician and has always travelled or driven a lot for work. As the years went by, Danny just kept it as his "old reliable" and go-to vehicle, maintaining it properly and on time. When he first got it, he admits he found it ugly, with the light green body and white top. He went for a more subdued colorway, opting for just a clean all-black look. General Motors/YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article All It Needs Is LoveOther than that, the truck has more or less remained stock over the years. Most notably, the 454 7.4-liter big block V8 engine. This was considered Chevy's performance motor back in the 70s, finding homes in the many muscle cars of the lineup, but it was also offered in the C10. Danny's truck was a top-trim Super Chayenne, and his 454 is the original motor that has accumulated all the miles. The 454 in the C10 trucks produced about 275 horsepower but offered huge torque of about 380 lb-ft. When asked how he got the truck to hit the million-mile mark, Danny was honest and said just replace and maintain parts in a timely manner, don't delay repairs because it just keeps piling up. The reality, though, is that cars like Danny's C10 are a testament to old-school, simple engineering, rather than the complicated cars of today, where troubleshooting isn't as easy or even possible in some cases. General Motors/YouTube View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Mercedes-Benz Allegedly Mishandling a RecallAutomotive lawsuits can take many forms. Some grow into sprawling class actions with thousands of owners and huge sums at stake, while others begin with just one customer who feels a company didn’t handle their case properly. That’s exactly what happened in Seyyed Javad Maadanian v. Mercedes-Benz USA, a case filed in Seattle’s federal court. Maadanian, who owns a 2011 Mercedes-Benz ML350, argued that the automaker didn’t do enough to support customers during a critical safety recall. Rather than disputing the defect itself, Maadanian’s lawsuit focused on what happened after the recall was announced. He claimed that neither Mercedes-Benz nor the dealership provided a loaner vehicle or covered rental expenses while his SUV sat unused. Court documents show that the case hinged on alleged violations of the Washington Consumer Protection Act, as well as claims that Mercedes was unjustly enriched by failing to cover transportation costs during the recall. The Recall and the DisputeThe story dates back to May 2022, when Mercedes-Benz issued a sweeping recall for nearly 300,000 vehicles due to a brake booster problem. Moisture can cause corrosion inside the brake booster housing, compromising braking performance. Needless to say, the problem was serious, so owners were told to stop driving their vehicles until a dealership could inspect them. Maadanian says he followed that instruction immediately. After learning about the recall, he contacted a local Mercedes dealer and asked that the SUV be towed for inspection and that he be provided a loaner vehicle or reimbursement for renting one. According to Maadanian, the dealer turned him down. That meant he had to pay for his own transportation while his SUV sat idle. The lawsuit argued that Mercedes left owners to cover these costs themselves, and didn’t make it clear how, or if, reimbursement or mobility help would work during the recall. Mercedes, for its part, said it offered towing and assistance options as part of the recall, and that its communications with customers and dealers changed as the situation developed. The Judge’s DecisionAccording to Car Complaints, US District Judge Robert S. Lasnik granted summary judgment for Mercedes-Benz earlier this month, bringing the case to a close. The court found that Maadanian hadn’t provided enough evidence to show that Mercedes’ communications were deceptive or unfair under Washington’s consumer protection law. The judge also said the company’s statements to customers and instructions to dealerships were consistent. While the recall process did create some confusion about transportation and reimbursement, the court noted that Mercedes adjusted its policies as the situation evolved. The judge also pointed out that automakers shouldn’t be discouraged from issuing urgent safety notices, since waiting to finalize every detail of a recall program could delay warnings about serious defects. The court concluded that Mercedes’ actions weren’t unethical, illegal, or misleading and dismissed the remaining claims. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Performance Truck MadnessIn the mid-2000s, Dodge released a full-size pickup truck powered by the V10 from arguably the brand's most iconic sports car, the Viper. Dubbed the Dodge Ram SRT-10, the street-performance truck was the fastest of its kind at the time, even earning a Guinness World Record after reaching an average speed of 248 km/h (154 mph). The automaker built just around 10,000 units during its three-year production run, and one is currently listed for sale on Cars & Bids. This particular 2004 Dodge Ram has been modified since leaving the factory, most notably with a Paxton Novi 2000 supercharger – effectively defying the naturally aspirated philosophy of the Viper-derived engine. The exact horsepower figure isn’t disclosed, as the listing does not include a dyno sheet, though the stock 8.3-liter V10 produced 500 horsepower in its original form. This example is a regular cab, meaning it comes with the 6-speed manual transmission rather than the 4-speed automatic offered in the quad-cab version. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a limited-slip differential. Cars & Bids Turning Up the BoostThe pickup – which has 41,600 miles on the odometer – also receives several additional performance upgrades, including a BBK Performance Power Plus throttle body, a custom exhaust system, CalTracs traction bars, drilled and slotted brake rotors, and Wilwood rear brake calipers. It also features an aftermarket radiator, upgraded coolant pipes, and a cold-air intake to support the increased airflow demands of the belt-driven forced-induction setup. Beyond the performance upgrades, the vehicle has also been repainted in white with blue stripes and fitted with aftermarket headlights, taillights, front grilles, badges, and decals. The interior has also been updated with aftermarket auxiliary gauges, a shifter, seat handles, and an Alpine head unit. The seller notes some exterior scratches and creases on the seats, though the truck comes with an accident-free Carfax report. Due to its large-displacement V10 and aftermarket supercharged setup, it may not pass emissions regulations in some states. Cars & Bids The Auction Block AwaitsThis 2004 Dodge Ram SRT-10 is set to be auctioned on March 17, with the current bid standing at $31,255. The seller has added only 600 miles since acquiring it in January 2022. With Ram making it clear that a Ram SRT-10 revival isn’t happening anytime soon, this listing could suit buyers who want a fun vehicle that can still handle workhorse duties. Since the model ended production, Dodge and Ram have split into separate brands, with the latter focusing exclusively on trucks. Ram’s current performance halo in this space is the 1500 TRX, which has been brought back from extinction with 777 horsepower – outmuscling the Ford F-150 Raptor R by 57 horsepower. Cars & Bids View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

When Power Meets a Troubled ReputationBMW’s N63 V8 landed in 2008 with a lot to prove. This 4.4-liter twin-turbo brought the brand’s first “hot-V” layout, tucking the turbos right inside the engine’s V for sharper response and tighter packaging. The result? Strong performance, a smooth surge of power, and that deep, unmistakable exhaust note you expect from a proper turbo V8. Depending on the version, the N63 put out anywhere from 402 to 500 horsepower. It found its way into just about every big BMW of the era – the 5, 6, and 7 Series, plus the X5 and X6. Even a few Land Rovers ended up with their own spin on this engine. But for all its promise, the early N63 quickly earned a reputation as one of BMW’s most headache-inducing engines. Owners complained about everything from heavy oil thirst and failing turbos to leaky valve stem seals, coolant leaks, injector drama, and timing chain woes. The issues piled up so fast that BMW had to roll out special support programs just to keep owners on the road. BMW did try to fix things with later N63TU “Technical Update” versions, which ironed out some of the worst flaws. Still, the original N63 is infamous among mechanics and enthusiasts alike – especially when you find one like this, pulled from a well-used 5er with over 100,000 miles on the clock. A 2012 BMW 550i GT Engine AutopsyThis particular teardown engine came from a 2012 BMW 550i GT with about 141,000 miles, which was incredible considering this V8's reputation. At that point, replacing the engine would have cost more than the car was worth, so it was sent to the scrapyard – and the engine was pulled for a closer look. At first, the engine didn’t look totally neglected. A few hoses and parts had been swapped out, hinting at past repair attempts. The turbos looked original but still spun without complaint. But the real story only came out once the teardown began. The first big clue showed up with the spark plugs – one had been hammered flat by a piston. Pulling the heads revealed the real carnage: one cylinder was missing its piston entirely, with bits scattered everywhere. Another piston was cracked and had gouged the cylinder walls, while a third looked like it had slammed into the head after a bearing let go. Things got uglier at the bottom end, with the oil pan full of broken rods, shredded bearings, piston chunks, and bits of aluminum. Some pieces were jammed right into the block. Aside from a few odds and ends, almost everything inside was a total loss. I Do Cars/YouTube View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Problem with the N63Teardowns like this usually trace back to the N63’s Achilles’ heel: the oiling system and rod bearings. Lose oil pressure, and the bearings wear out fast. Once that happens, the rods start to wobble, pistons shatter, and the whole bottom end self-destructs. Add in the usual suspects – valve stem seal wear, turbo heat soak, carbon buildup from direct injection, and injector failures – and you’ve got a recipe for trouble. Later updates fixed a lot, but ask any owner or tech and they’ll tell you: keeping an N63 alive comes down to maintenance. Frequent oil changes – think every 5,000 miles, not the factory interval – are a must. Stay on top of leaks, clean out carbon, and keep an eye on the high-pressure fuel pump and water pump to avoid bigger headaches down the road. I Do Cars/YouTube View the full article

Midway through 2025, the 2026 Ram 2500 Black Express and Warlock trims were introduced for the company’s heavy-duty lineup. Prioritizing affordability (both trims are based on the entry-level Tradesman) and rugged capability while adding a sporty look, the two derivatives have turned out to be a big hit. At the recent unveiling of the 2027 Ram ProMaster City Van in Detroit, Ram said these pickups received a year’s worth of orders in only the first month, according to Carscoops. To cope with the demand, the company has had to increase production capacity. Ram 2500 Warlock and Black Express Features Ram Orders for these two Ram 2500 HD pickups opened late in June 2025, before they began arriving at dealers in the third quarter of last year. Ram sold 169,920 heavy-duty pickups last year, a 9% drop relative to 2024. However, based on Ram’s recent comments, these numbers could have been higher if it was able to meet the number of orders for the 2500 Warlock and Black Express. One customer who ordered a new 2500 Warlock in July 2025 was told by the dealer to expect a three-month wait. Based on that, many of the trims ordered in the fourth quarter of last year would not have been reflected in 2025’s sales figures. At $53,070, the Black Express is the cheaper of the two pickups and comes with these extras, among others: Sport performance hood20-inch black wheelsTrailer tow mirrorsCrew Cab with long or short bed Ram The Warlock is the more capable of the two, with a $56,400 starting price and the following extras: 4x4 only34-inch Goodyear Duratrac A/T tiresTransfer case skidplateBilstein shocksAnti-spin rear differentialHill descent controlBoth are available with either the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 405 horsepower or the 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel with 430 hp and a mighty 1,075 lb-ft of torque. All variations of the pickup have an eight-speed automatic transmission. “The Ram 2500 Black Express and Warlock offer an attractive price with custom appearance, while building on our sport truck leadership position,” said Ram CEO Tim Kuniskis at the time of the trucks’ reveal. Related: Ford & Chevy Won't Be Happy With Ram's New Heavy Duty Pickup What It Means Stellantis Of the nine 2026 Ram 2500 trims available, more than half start at over $60,000. The Black Express and Warlock’s popularity shows the demand for more affordable but still capable trim levels in the market right now. This trend has been reflected across multiple brands and vehicle segments. Sales of cheaper Ford Maverick and Ranger pickups have been strong in recent months, while Honda even decided to increase the output of lower-priced non-hybrid models as demand for those models rises. Ram’s 1500 is now one of the oldest pickups in the full-size segment, but high-value trims like these two—along with the return of the Hemi V8—are keeping it in contention with GM and Ford rivals. Related: As New Car Prices Top $50,000, Buyers Shift to Base Models View the full article

Last week, Ram resurrected the ProMaster City van to help fill a niche that has been shrinking, and now the Stellantis product planners have come up with another new vehicle that should have broad appeal. It's called the 2026 Ram 1500 BackCountry, and it sits between the affordable entry-level Warlock and the more premium Rebel variants, offering some useful off-road upgrades and a touch of extra style without breaking the bank. The new BackCountry is based on the Big Horn 4x4 Crew Cab and is essentially an off-road package with a few styling differences, so let's take a closer look at what a little over $62,000 buys you. 2026 Ram 1500 BackCountry Gets Several Upgrades Stellantis The new BackCountry package is for the Ram 1500 Big Horn 4x4 Crew Cab with the Level 1 or Level 2 equipment group specifications and comes with a choice of either the usual 5.7-liter Hemi V8 eTorque powertrain or the 3.0-liter inline-six Standard Output version of the Hurricane twin-turbo engine, adding a one-inch suspension lift with heavy-duty shock absorbers, skid plates for the front underbody, power steering rack, transfer case, and fuel tank, and a rear electronic locking differential that functions as anti-spin when disengaged. One of the highlights of the package is a set of Satin Black 18-inch aluminum five-spoke wheels wrapped in 32-inch off-road rubber, and the BackCountry also benefits from tow hooks and a body-color grille surround on the front end, black fender flares on the sides, and a satin black BackCountry emblem on the tailgate. More black highlights are found on the lower body and bumpers, which are finished in Diamond Black Crystal Pearl Coat, and on the satin black badges and lighting bezels. 2026 Ram 1500 BackCountry Adds Comfort for a Price Stellantis Inside, the BackCountry is enhanced with another satin black BackCountry emblem on the instrument panel, vinyl bucket seats with alloy printed mesh inserts, and all-weather rubber floor mats. A MOLLE panel seatback storage system is also included. As for those Level 1 and Level 2 equipment groups mentioned earlier, the former adds heated front seats, a heated leather steering wheel, power-adjustable pedals, and in-floor storage bins for the second row, as well as auto-dimming side mirrors with power fold and heating functions and a rear power sliding window with defrosting. The latter group adds a seven-inch driver display, a 12-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen in the center of the dash, configurable drive modes, a 10-way power driver seat with lumbar, dual wireless charging pads (which no other vehicle in the class offers), dual-zone climate control, a power tailgate-release, and a nine-speaker sound system. Related: The Next Ram 1500 Could Look Nothing Like Today’s Trucks Orders are already open as of this publishing, with BackCountry starting at $62,410 if you opt for the Big Horn Level 1 Equipment Group. That's a little more than $10,000 more than the Warlock (starting at $52,685), but still less than the Rebel, which costs at least $65,345. For the record, a regular Big Horn starts at $47,575. Hopefully, these will be joined by a 2027 TRX sooner rather than later. View the full article

Ram's off-road lineup currently runs from the Warlock all the way up to the RHO, which starts north of $75,000 and comes with enough suspension hardware to make a Baja racer blush. That's great if the budget allows for it. But for the buyer who wants to hit a fire road on Saturday without explaining a five-figure truck package to a spouse on Sunday, the options have been thinner than they should be. The 2026 Ram 1500 BackCountry is Ram's answer to that gap, and at $2,995 over a Big Horn 4x4 Crew Cab, it might be the most sensible off-road package in the full-size truck segment right now. Ram What you get for three grandThe BackCountry package builds on the Big Horn trim and bundles together hardware that would cost considerably more if optioned individually. The headline items are a 1-inch suspension lift with heavy-duty shocks, a full set of underbody skid plates covering the front suspension, power steering rack, transfer case, and fuel tank, plus a rear electronic locking differential. Add in 32-inch off-road tires on 18-inch Satin Black wheels, front tow hooks, and Selec-Speed off-road cruise control, and you have a truck that can handle unpaved terrain with genuine confidence rather than just cosmetic swagger. The exterior treatment leans heavily into the blacked-out aesthetic: contrast black fender flares, Diamond Black Crystal Pearl-Coat lower body and bumpers, body-color grille surround, and Satin Black badging throughout. It looks purposeful without screaming for attention, which is a difficult line to walk in a segment where most "off-road" packages seem designed primarily to look good in a dealership parking lot. Inside, Ram went practical over plush. Black vinyl bucket seats with alloy printed mesh inserts won't win any luxury awards, but they'll survive muddy boots and wet dogs without complaint. The MOLLE panel seatback storage system is a genuinely useful touch for anyone who actually carries gear into the backcountry, and standard all-weather rubber floor mats in both rows suggest Ram expects this truck to get dirty. Where it sits in the lineupPositioning matters here. The Warlock, which starts around $52,865, offers a similar off-road foundation with four-wheel drive, a 1-inch lift, all-terrain tires, and a locking rear differential. The Rebel, starting around $60,000 before options, steps up to 33-inch tires, a more aggressive suspension, and a noticeably more styled interior with red accents. The RHO, at roughly $75,000 and up, is essentially a pre-runner with 35-inch tires and a Bilstein adaptive shock system. The BackCountry slots in at $62,410 to start, including destination and the Level 1 Equipment Group. That undercuts the Rebel while delivering most of the functional hardware that matters for moderate trail use. It won't match the Rebel's 33-inch tires or the RHO's Bilstein shocks, but for logging roads, gravel, and the kind of off-roading that most truck owners actually do, the 32-inch rubber and heavy-duty shocks are more than adequate. Buyers can choose between the 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 with eTorque mild-hybrid assist (395 horsepower, 410 lb-ft) or the 3.0-liter Hurricane Twin Turbo inline-six (420 horsepower, 469 lb-ft). The Hurricane delivers more power and torque for less money, making it the rational choice. The HEMI costs $1,200 more and delivers less on paper, but Ram brought it back for 2026 because roughly 40% of their customers said they'd switch brands without it. Sound and soul are hard to quantify on a spec sheet, but they matter to the people writing the checks. What it doesn't doThe BackCountry is not a Rebel, and it definitely isn't pretending to be an RHO. There's no adaptive suspension, no 33-inch or 35-inch rubber, and the interior is vinyl, not leather. The Level 1 Equipment Group adds heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, but if you want the 12-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen, configurable drive modes, and dual wireless charging, you'll need to step up to the Level 2 Equipment Group, which raises the price. There's also no bed utility group bundled in this time around, unlike the 2022 BackCountry, which included a spray-in bed liner, tonneau cover, and deployable bed step. Those are now separate options. The verdictThe 2026 Ram 1500 BackCountry does something rare in the off-road truck market: it offers real, functional capability without demanding a luxury-tier price. For $2,995 over a Big Horn, buyers get skid plates, a locking differential, a suspension lift, proper off-road tires, and styling that doesn't apologize for being a work truck. It won't satisfy the hardcore trail crowd chasing Moab rock crawls, and it shouldn't. That's what the RHO and the returning TRX are for. But for the much larger group of truck owners who occasionally need to get somewhere the pavement doesn't reach, the BackCountry delivers the essentials without the financial guilt. In a lineup that now stretches from $42,000 to $90,000, this package quietly makes one of the strongest cases for value Ram has offered in years. View the full article

China's Knocking Chinese automakers have been making huge leaps in recent years. Whether we're talking tech, manufacturing, or global sales (whether manufactured or not), the sheer number of models that come from the East on a near-daily basis. The growth of the Chinese auto industry is a case study in itself. We're currently living in a time when people are being pushed toward cost-effective and efficient vehicles due to several factors. Chinese-made vehicles come in at attractive price points, and consumers are taking notice around the world, except the U.S., where tariffs and laws are keeping them out of the country, at least for now. Xie Guiming/VCG via Getty Images Letter Sent The five auto groups that sent the letter, dated Thursday, March 12, 2026, came from the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, the National Automobile Dealers Association, Autos Drive America, the American Automotive Policy Council, and MEMA, the Vehicle Suppliers Association. Reuters reports on the letter that was sent to the President of the United States. The five groups that represent automakers, car dealers, and parts manufacturers wrote: "serious concerns about China's ongoing efforts to dominate global automotive manufacturing and gain access to the U.S. market. These actions pose a direct threat to America's global competitiveness, national security, and automotive industrial base." The request is also timely since President Trump will be attending a planned summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss relations and maintain stability. President Trump is expected to visit China from March 31, 2026. Stellantis Protecting U.S. industryA 2025 cybersecurity regulation from China's Commerce Department is effectively keeping nearly all Chinese vehicles out of the U.S. auto market. The groups even criticized Canada's announcement that it would allow some Chinese vehicles into its market, which was also detailed in the letter. The groups want to protect U.S. auto manufacturing. Chinese manufacturers have been pushing for overseas plants. "We also strongly urge the Administration to reject any attempt by Chinese manufacturers to circumvent these existing restrictions by establishing production facilities in the U.S." "The market distortions and risks to the auto industry in the U.S. are fundamentally the same whether these vehicles are imported or produced domestically." However, President Trump also expressed in January 2026 that "if they want to come in and build a plant and hire you and hire your friends and your neighbors, that's great, I love that," to the Detroit Economic Club. On the flip side, the President also slammed Canada's decision to allow Chinese brands into North America. Getty China's RepliesIt goes both ways between the U.S. and China. President Trump imposed steep tariffs on Chinese products, effectively blocking BYD from gaining access. It was enough for BYD to sue the U.S. Government, alleging that the tariffs exceeded the authority granted to the President under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Reuters also reported that the U.S.-Chinese Embassy rejected the criticism, stating that Chinese-made cars are popular globally "not by using so-called 'unfair practices' but by emerging from the fierce market competition with technological innovation and superb quality." Furthermore, "China's door has been open to global auto companies, including U.S. auto companies, who have fully shared in the dividends of China's big market." This also extends into vehicle development, as is the case with some U.S. automakers – such as Ford – collaborating with brands like BYD on future electrified products and establishing manufacturing facilities in the United States. Whether or not the letter will affect the summit remains to be seen. We're likely to see more developments in April this year. Some brands are taking the "if you can't beat them, join them" approach, while others are still looking to protect their interests by lobbying to bar them altogether. Common ground may yet be found between the two largest economies in the world, and the U.S. remains an untapped market for Chinese automakers, at least for now. VCG/VCG via Getty Images View the full article

General Motors made the bold decision to introduce a 2.7-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine in the full-size Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 several years ago. Initially known as the L3B, it was renamed ‘TurboMax’ for the 2024 model year and is the only standard four-cylinder mill in a pickup of this size. Already impressive for its mix of high torque and reasonable economy, the four-cylinder TurboMax engine is set to get a boost in power and torque for the 2027 models of these GM pickups, which will enter a new generation soon. Related: Next-Gen Chevy Silverado Is Arriving This Year — Here’s What It Could Look Like Silverado and Sierra TurboMax Engine Updates The Fast Lane Truck/YouTube The current TurboMax mill has already silenced many doubters who don’t believe a four-cylinder engine suffices in a full-size pickup. It produces 310 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque; that torque figure is easily more than the 383 lb-ft from GM’s own 5.3-liter V8. It also exceeds the 410 lb-ft from the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 used in certain Ford F-150 variants. According to GM Authority sources, the 2027 GM pickups will get an improved version of the TurboMax with more horsepower and torque, although the exact figures are unknown. Any increase will give pickup buyers another reason to consider one of these GM trucks over its traditional rivals, though. The TurboMax engine is developing a solid reliability reputation already, with few major problems experienced by owners. It was affected by fuel injector issues on earlier models, but the four-pot has not experienced anything as catastrophic as GM’s 6.2-liter V8 mill's problems. This powerful V8 has been hit with multiple lawsuits for outright engine failure, which dents the general perception that larger, naturally aspirated V8s are more reliable than smaller, boosted four-cylinder units. What It Means GMC The fact that GM is doubling down on enhancing its TurboMax engine for 2027 shows the confidence it has in the four-cylinder unit. Many owners have had only good things to say about the TurboMax, so an even more potent version will further eat into the dominance of V8s. That doesn’t mean the TurboMax will replace the V8s entirely, though—Ram already found out the hard way that a V8 engine option still has its place in a full-size pickup. The new Silverado and Sierra are expected to be revealed later in 2026. Not only will the TurboMax be improved, but a new V8 engine and likely hybrid options are also on the menu. We expect a fresh but familiar exterior look and a more refined interior for the GM twins, which will put pressure on full-size rivals from Ram and Ford. View the full article

Wanting For MoreOne segment that has been hit hard by the ever-changing times is the muscle car. With the advent of EV tech, emissions standards, fuel prices, and general need for practicality, pony cars have been neutered and, in some cases, killed off as a sign of the times. Some brands continue to persevere; we have Ford still backing heavily into the Mustang nameplate (and soldiering on), and then we have Stellantis group's Dodge, which flip-flopped with the idea of an EV-only muscle car, but eventually relented and last year released an ICE-powered Charger model, called the Sixpack with a twin-turbo V6. While some rejoiced, others still felt that it didn't capture the essence or performance of a true V8 can. A Replacement for Displacement?Performance modifications are very much part of the muscle car lifestyle, and as such, any gains to be made on the stock output of the Charger Sixpack would be beneficial to any owner. Thankfully, there are already tuning firms and companies that have developed ready-to-use mods for the Sixpack; one of them (Burger Motorsports) recently posted a video highlighting the gains they got. What makes this video interesting is the simplicity of the mod; Burger Motorsports has its own proprietary bolt-on piggyback tuning kit just for the Charger Sixpack. This kit doesn't require replacing the ECU, can be modified on the fly through an app you can download, and connects to the module via Bluetooth. In other words, it's a minimally invasive type of kit for those not keen on replacing stock parts just yet. In terms of gains, the folks at Burger Motorsports first set a benchmark run of the unmodified Sixpack on the dyno. It registered a respectable 470 horsepower and 486 ft-lb of torque. It wasn't specifically mentioned what variant the Charger they tuned is, though, based on the video, the Scat Pack logo can be found on the front fenders. We also have to take into account that while the declared power of the Scat Pack is 550 hp, the dyno numbers display true wheel horsepower after drivetrain losses. Burger Motorsports/YouTube View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Beyond the Tuning KitBurger Motorsports then installed the JB4 module tuning kit on the Charger. The first run after installation already yielded decent gains, with a 20 hp increase and almost 100 lb-ft of torque. The mapping parameters were set to 2 levels, with runs starting with 91 octane fuel and progressing to Ethanol. The most output they got on 91 octane and engine mapping 2 was 506 wheel hp. Using 93 octane and mapping 2 showed 513 wheel hp, and finally using ethanol and mapping 3 got the highest output of 529 wheel hp. Considering that the JB4 is a plug-and-play kit, it's impressive how much power simple tuning and fuel mods can deliver to the Sixpack engine. Anything beyond 500 wheel hp is well into the V8 power range. However, Burger Motorsports also offers bolt-on parts that can further enhance performance when combined with the JB4 system. Burger Motorsports/YouTube View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Not Your Ordinary EscaladeWhen Cadillac first released the Escalade in 1998, little did GM know that it would become one of its biggest hits. Turns out, many people wanted a Cadillac SUV, and its popularity exploded when the second-generation model came about in 2004. In some way, it's the modern interpretation of the company's land yachts from the '60s and '70s. Today, Escalades are pretty much everywhere, even in markets where these aren't officially sold. It's huge and hugely desirable, and for those outside the U.S, it's a big chunk of Americana on wheels. It's even a presidential car in some countries. Oddly enough, it's never been transported by the President of the United States, that is, until now. Meet the Camp Package, and it's the President's ride for when The Beast couldn't get to places with rougher terrain. It actually debuted during the 56th World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, but the Secret Service is sharing a little more detail about it now. U.S Secret Service/Youtube The Beast's Off-Roading SiblingOr rather, should we say siblings? There are two of these presidential Cadillac SUVs, which comes as no surprise, as there are also a couple of backups for The Beast in service. Now, this isn't the first presidential limo, as the Secret Service has used Suburbans to shuttle the President around when the going gets a little bumpy. The Secret Service isn't telling us how fortified the 'Camp Package' Escalades are, but we're pretty sure it's armored to the nines. If those reinforced window frames aren't enough of a clue that it's no ordinary conversion, then the beefed-up eight-lug wheels would be another indicator. Civilians can't get heavy-duty versions of the Suburban, let alone other models based on it. U.S Secret Service/Youtube The Tricky PartIn case you haven't noticed, the new SUVs resemble the previous-generation Escalade and not the current ones. It doesn't even look like the pre-facelift versions of the present model. So, what gives? In the Secret Service's own words, this is a 'full-size sport utility vehicle with Cadillac branding.' There's the possibility that these are reskinned Suburbans rather than all-new vehicles. After all, exterior parts are easily swappable since they all ride on the same platform and share the same exterior hard points. The Government agency did say there are also Cadillac emblems inside the Camp Package vehicles, but those, too, could have been changed from Chevrolet badges. Of course, we could ask the Secret Service, but we probably won't see the light of day if we do find out the answer. U.S Secret Service/Youtube View the full article

Crossing the finish line on Sunday, Denny Hamlin said ‘old dogs can still hunt,’ and that might have enough legs to become the slogan for his 2026 season. There were a lot of reasons to expect that maybe this old dog might start to get a little bit sluggish. For one, he went through absolute hell over the winter, with the death of his father in a house fire, that also hospitalized mother ...Keep readingView the full article

No one is really making a dent in Tyler Reddick's impressive points lead, which remains +61 points after the fifth race of the year at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. He has led the standings since winning the season-opening Daytona 500 last month. His 23XI Racing teammate, Bubba Wallace,is back in the runner-up spot, jumping ahead of Blaney after the Penske driver got caught out by an ill-timed ...Keep readingView the full article

Ross Chastain and Daniel Suarez spent the last four years as teammates at Trackhouse Racing, but they aren't teammates any longer. Suarez now drives for Spire Motorsports after being let go from Trackhouse, and he has had a solid start to the 2026 season. But on Sunday, Suarez and Chastain were running at the backend of the top 20. Battling for 17th, Chastain passed Suarez to the outside with ...Keep readingView the full article

Last fall, Denny Hamlin earned a milestone 60th career at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, dedicating the win to his father. Since then, Hamlin suffered a bitter defeat in the title race, and lost his ailing father in an off-season house fire. But on Sunday, he returned to Victory Lane at Vegas for his 61st career win, and his first of the 2026 season. "This is a family sport, and my family ...Keep readingView the full article

Denny Hamlin captured the checkered flag at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, earning his 61st career win -- all as the driver of the #11 Joe Gibbs Racing machine. Toyotas have now won four of the first five races to open the new season. He was followed by two Hendrick Motorsports drivers with Chase Elliott second and William Byron third. The margin of victory was just over half-a-second. Hamlin's ...Keep readingView the full article

Ford’s Best-Seller Doesn’t Sell In Europe The Ford F-150 is pretty much a symbol of the American automotive industry at this point. The full-sized pickup truck is a pillar in its segment, being a best-selling model, a default choice, or simply just a great all-rounder. Fourteen generations on, and it’s still going strong, but not every market is lucky enough to be graced by its availability. In Europe, the only Raptor pickup truck that you can get across the pond is the Ranger Raptor, and that comes with up to a 3.0-liter V6 engine, which is already plenty of fun. However, that pales in comparison to the F-150 Raptor, which has more power and torque and a whole lot more mass on its wheels, which is both a blessing and a curse. For a multitude of reasons, the Ford F-150, even the base trims, never officially made it to European markets. The Ford Ranger is the more appropriately sized pickup truck because towns and city streets aren’t big enough to accommodate the F-150. Hollmann No F-150 for EU According to a number of Reddit threads, the F-150 Raptor, in particular, is a “rare sight.” It may be a bit too big for the streets of Europe, but just right for the highways. Another Reddit user asked how “painful it will be” to move his 2022 Raptor over to France. One commenter said to sell it and buy a Ranger Raptor because it’s way too big. However, that hasn’t stopped some European car buyers from buying these pickups through third parties. The Ford F-150 is an import in Europe. No Ford dealer carries them, so you will have to go to a third-party importer to get the American-sized truck on European soil. Apparently, there are several modifications that you need to do and duties and taxes that have to be paid, so in terms of cost, you’re going to be looking at pretty much double the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) to get it on a boat. Either that or you can look for someone who’s willing to part ways with his truck in Europe, but that may be few and far between. Americans can enjoy the F-150 in all its trims, with a starting MSRP of about $40,000 for the Base XL trim. With options, add-ons, and features, you could go as high as the Lariat trim level, which goes for roughly $60,000. Either that, or you can get the ultimate – the biggest and baddest – Raptor, which will set you back almost $80,000 when fully specced out. Importing an F-150 Raptor to Europe will essentially bump the price up to perhaps about $160,000 or more, as we see in this Hollmann’s listing for a brand-new Ford F-150 Raptor. Hollmann Factory FreshWith only 50 kilometers (31 miles) on the clock, this F-150 Raptor in Shelter Green comes with all the bells and whistles that you would expect from an F-150. It comes with the 3.5-liter V6 EcoBoost engine that delivers 450 horsepower, and the listing even states that it is Euro 6 emissions-compliant. The vehicle is currently listed in Germany at €135,422. Converted to U.S. dollars, that’s $155,241.01 based on current exchange rates. So the question is, would you buy a brand-new F-150 Raptor at this price? It’s funny to think that the F-150 Raptor can be classified as an exotic in Europe, parked alongside G-Wagons and Ferraris in the same showroom. The unit in the Hollmann Showroom in Germany is quite fetching. Brand-new inside and out, the Shelter Green paint is also another uncommon color for an "uncommon" car. Hollmann View the 24 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Rewriting the Rule BookThe Bugatti Veyron ushered in the era of the hypercar, creating a whole new class of automobiles that pushed the very limits of what we believed was possible on four wheels. A brainchild of the then Volkswagen Group Supremo Ferdinand Piech, he was extremely meticulous about the Veyron achieving hyperspeed while staying classy and comfortable. This pushed the team to create the standard Veyron, already capable of a staggering 250 mph top speed. Wanting more, they eventually introduced the record-breaking Super Sport variant, which clocked a top speed of 267 mph. A pre-production model was used as a test bed, and a display car that circumnavigated the globe on press tours and test drives. Bugatti View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Rebirth by La Maison Pur SangThat very car has just been reworked and restored by the in-house heritage department, La Maison Pur Sang. This group is in charge of ensuring the older Bugatti models can still be enjoyed and driven, preserving the brand's storied back catalogue of cars. As mentioned, this Veyron Super Sport served as a multi-purpose car for the brand. Apart from serving as the display car for press tours, it was also designated as a test bed for refining the systems that would make it into the full production model. This unique role gives this Super Sport a story like no other Veyron could tell. Since 2010, it's clocked almost 44,000 miles on the odometer, making it somewhat of a high-miler among Veyrons. It was sent to the La Maison Pur Sangs team in Molsheim, where it underwent a six-month restoration to return it to its original specs. Interior work was intensive, with a full restoration of the seats to return the original form and comfort they would've had when new. The steering wheel was also fully reconditioned, along with all stitching and panels inside. Bugatti One Lucky CollectorSince the exterior of the Super Sport was adorned with exposed carbon fiber, it was paramount that it be redone properly; a new clear coat was applied, and the contrasting orange paint was repainted. Finally, some powertrain components were updated to bring the car to full production specifications and ensure true reliability. After this extensive restoration project done by La Maison Pur Sang, the Super Sport will be given to a very lucky collector, not just anyone, but a loyal brand collector at that. Along with the car itself, this person will receive a certification book that documents the vehicle's very unique history. Bugatti View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article