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UncompromisingThe Porsche 911 GT3 RS is one of the best versions of one of the best sports cars ever made. It is the expression of Porsche's desire to make a 911 that's as close to racing performance on the road. It is usually a more stripped-out, lighter, tougher, and more powerful 911. For most, it would already be more than enough; however, some think more can be squeezed out of the 911 model. Talos is one of those who do, and it has dialed the hardcore 911 up to 11. Talos Talos 911 RTTalos, a high-end, high-performance British restomod company, has now created the 911 RT. The 911 RT is Talos' definition of what they think the 911 GT3 RS should be. In this case, they took a 992.2 generation GT3 RS and made some tweaks. Let's first address the aggressive looks. Talos takes inspiration from the track-only 911 R; the 911 RT proudly shows off its exposed carbon fiber body panels. In fact, the whole exterior is nothing but exposed carbon fiber, no livery or stickers here, the only color coming from the gold rims. This carbon madness isn't just for show; it allows the Talos 911 RT to save 176 lbs. Talos seamlessly integrated the design by 3D scanning the 911 R to accurately create the panels added to the Talos version. Apart from the carbon fiber and race-car looks, Talos has also added some performance-enhancing pieces to the 911 RT. It features a custom Ohlins TTX Suspension kit, a sophisticated system that Talos says was perfectly wired for the 911 RT, owners can tweak it to strike the right balance between road comfort and track performance, and you can even use a smartphone app to adjust it. Power has also been bumped up to 540 hp from the standard 500; they didn't mention how they increased power, but said it's designed to now have a natural, progressive feel when it comes to power delivery. Talos View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Limited to Just 20 UnitsSomething as exclusive and special as the Talos 911 RT will, of course, come with the customary customization options, many of which. Talos is offering only 20 units of this car, and each owner will be able to make it truly theirs. No 911 RT is expected to look the same. Price for the Talos 911 RT starts at $1,149,548 (converted), and that's just for the upgrades. You'll still need to provide the Porsche 911 GT3 RS yourself, so let's say the whole package will set you back around $1.5 Million, a hefty price for a juiced-up 911 GT3 RS. Talos View the full article

Spire Motorsports has announced Shane van Gisbergen as the driver of its No. 71 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet Silverado next week at Charlotte Motor Speedway. NationsGuard will sponsor the effort. This will be SVG's third career start in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, and his second on an oval. The three-time Supercars champion ran at IRP in 2023 with Niece Motorsports, finishing 19th. He ...Keep readingView the full article

Brad Moran, NASCAR’s managing director for the Cup Series, detailed the thought process behind race control not calling for a caution for a crash involving Cody Ware that left a significant dent in the Turn 7 railing. Ware was able to keep the car under power, drove down pit road, and attempted repairs but the Rick Ware Racing No. 51 ultimately chose to park it afterwards. This became a ...Keep readingView the full article

In April 2026, BYD exported 135,098 vehicles — every single one of them either fully electric or a plug-in hybrid. That number, striking on its own, becomes remarkable when you hold it up against Tesla's likely global deliveries for the same month. Tesla doesn't publish monthly figures, only quarterly ones, which means we're working with an informed estimate. But the math by CleanTechnica tells a fairly clear story. Tesla delivered 358,023 vehicles in the entire first quarter of 2026. Divide that by three, and you get roughly 119,000 — and that's before accounting for the well-established pattern where Tesla front-loads deliveries toward the end of each quarter. In other words, BYD exported more cars than Tesla sold globally, and did it without touching the American market, which remains closed to Chinese automakers. BYD View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Domestic Powerhouse With a Growing Global FootprintThe export figure is only part of the April story. BYD's total passenger vehicle sales for the month came to 314,100 units. Subtract the 135,098 exported, and you get roughly 179,000 sold at home in China. That domestic base remains the engine of BYD's scale, even as competition inside China has intensified sharply, with rivals like Geely and Xiaomi chipping away at its market share. BYD's export volume, achieved despite US tariffs, EU surcharges, and no access to the world's wealthiest consumer market, is a different kind of statement. Legacy Automakers and Tesla Are Both Feeling the HeatThe pressure BYD is applying isn't limited to Tesla. Across more than 20 markets, including Thailand, Brazil, and Israel, BYD has already overtaken Tesla in sales. In Europe, where the EU slapped Chinese EVs with additional tariffs following an anti-subsidy investigation, BYD still managed to register more battery-electric vehicles on the continent than Tesla last year. Models like the BYD Seal and the Dolphin are undercutting domestic rivals on price while matching or beating them on features and safety ratings. The rise of a company that Elon Musk once openly laughed about is now everyone’s problem. View the full article

Roughly two months after its debut in Thailand, where it is built for the local and global markets, the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ has launched in Japan. The compact, rugged off-road SUV has officially gone on sale in Japan today with a single engine, a single trim level and a price that makes it the most affordable Land Cruiser-badged SUV in Toyota's home market. At This Price, Is the FJ the Most Desirable Toyota or What? Toyota The Land Cruiser FJ starts at 4,500,100 Japanese yen, which is the equivalent of $28,500 at the current exchange rate, undercutting the classic Land Cruiser 70 by about $3,500. The FJ will also be available in Japan as part of the Kinto subscription service for a monthly fee of 38,390 yen (about $243). In addition to the FJ and 70 Series, Toyota also sells the 250 Series (marketed as the Land Cruiser in USA) and 300 Series Land Cruiser models in Japan. The 70 Series and 300 Series Land Cruisers are not available in the United States—unless you want it as a more luxurious Lexus LX. Toyota Back to the Land Cruiser FJ, it’s available in Japan with only one engine, a naturally aspirated 2.7-liter four-cylinder rated at 161 hp and 178 pound-feet of torque. The engine is mated to a 6-speed Super ECT torque-converter automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels via a part-time 4WD system. Toyota says the engine achieves a fuel economy of 8.7 km/L in WLTC mode, which is the equivalent of 20.5 MPG U.S. Well-Equipped and Roomier Than You Think Toyota The Land Cruiser FJ is available in only one trim level called VX, which includes roof rails, side steps, front skid plate, and a rear-mounted spare tire on the outside. Customers can also choose between five body colors, including Smoky Blue and Oxide Bronze Metallic. Standard interior features include a multifunction steering wheel, 12.3-inch display with Connected Navigation support, Panoramic View Monitor that sends live feeds from the vehicle’s exterior cameras to the main screen to provide a 360-degree, bird's-eye view of the surroundings, and Blind Spot Monitor. The Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite is also standard and includes advanced functions such as the Pre-collision Safety System and Lane Departure Alert. Despite the fact that the FJ is almost 14 inches shorter and 4.5 inches narrower than a Land Cruiser 250 (the wheelbase is also 9.5 inches shorter), it offers seating for five and a generous trunk, thanks in part to its boxy design; the cargo volume is 28 cubic feet with all five seats in place. The second-row seat comes with a 60:40 split and it also slides forward and backward, reclines, and includes seat backboards. The second row is placed significantly higher than the front seats, enabling better forward visibility for rear passengers—although we’re not of the impact that has on headroom. It Beats the Land Cruiser 250 at Key Off-Road Metrics Now, when it comes to the Land Cruiser FJ’s off-road capability, the ladder-frame chassis adapted from Toyota’s IMV platform shared with the Hilux pickup is a prerequisite for top performance off the beaten track, especially since the lateral frame rigidity has been enhanced by shortening the wheelbase and adding braces. Additionally, the body structure features lightweight high-tensile strength steel plates, while the underfloor benefits from additional spot welding to improve vibration damping, which is said to enhance ride comfort while maintaining excellent handling stability. Toyota Compared to the Land Cruiser 250, the FJ has equivalent ground clearance but superior approach and departure angles (15 degrees greater), while wheel articulation is equivalent to the legendary 70 Series. Furthermore, the short wheelbase is said to enable excellent maneuverability and a minimum turning radius of 5.5 meters (18 feet). Toyota will also offer a series of dealer-installed options that include exterior accessories by ARB (skid plate, roof rack and rock rails), Molle panels for the side of the trunk and the rear door, as well as body decals, among other customizing options. View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

There is no direct comparison since this was the first NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen to take place during the spring but the Go Bowling at The Glen on FS1 earned an average of 1.928 million viewers and a 1.06 rating according to Nielsen’s Big Panel + Data metric. This is the lowest rated race of the season, won by Shane Van Gisbergen, this race barely dropping below Bristol’s ...Keep readingView the full article

The NASCAR All-Star Race changes formats ... often. The Sanctioning Body are not shy about using the race as an experiment, but this year marks quite a dramatic change. First, the All-Star Race heads to Dover, Delaware for the very first time. The 'Monster Mile' will not host a points-paying race for the first time since 1968, but it will play host to the All-Star Race this weekend. NASCAR also ...Keep readingView the full article

Google has announced a big makeover for Android Auto that will benefit more than 250 million cars compatible with the smartphone-mirroring app. The next generation of Android Auto brings a host of improvements, including a new visual and usability experience, premium entertainment, and better integration with the Gemini AI virtual assistant. Designed to Fit on Every Screen with Edge-to-Edge Google MapsThe 2026 Android Auto refresh is immediately obvious from a graphics standpoint as Google says the app is now “tailored to fit and look great on any car screen, whether it's an ultrawide rectangle, a circle or a unique shape.” In addition, the update brings personal design touches, widgets users can see at a glance (even when navigating), and edge-to-edge Google Maps on the vehicle dash. More specifically, Android Auto gets the Material 3 Expressive design from Android phones featuring expressive fonts, smooth animations and wallpapers. Users can also add a shortcut to their favorites contacts, a one-tap garage door opener, a weather overview, and more. Google But the biggest upgrade is Immersive Navigation, which Google calls the “biggest update to Google Maps in over a decade.” The map adopts a fresh look with a vivid 3D view that shows buildings, overpasses and terrain, while critical details like lanes, traffic lights and stop signs are highlighted to help drivers navigate tricky turns. Full HD Video Playback—Including YouTube Google Changes are equally big on the entertainment side of things, as Android Auto introduces the possibility to watch videos on apps like YouTube—only when stationary, obviously. Cars that support 60 fps full HD video playback will be the first to get the feature later this year. Those include vehicles from BMW, Ford, Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Skoda, Tata, and Volvo. Interestingly, when the driver switches gears from parked to drive, videos don’t abruptly stop; they just transition to audio-only in apps that support background audio. 2026 Android Auto also introduces immersive, spatial sound using Dolby Atmos in supported apps and cars, starting with BMW, Genesis, Mahindra, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Škoda, Tata, and Volvo. Furthermore, media apps, including YouTube Music and Spotify, are getting visual updates that will make them easier to use in the car. Gemini Is More Helpful, Especially If Your Phone Has Gemini Intelligence Google Google's Gemini AI is now widely available in Android Auto to help users get more done, brainstorm ideas or learn something new while driving. And if your smartphone has Gemini Intelligence, it will be available in the app later this year. Gemini Intelligence allows the device to understand your context, anticipate your needs and get things done on your behalf, according to Google. For example, “if you get a text from a friend asking for an address, Magic Cue will understand the context of the question, find the answer using information from your text messages, email or calendar, and offer to send a reply with the right information, all in a single tap.” Gemini Intelligence also allows users to order dinner while driving, starting with Doordash. View the full article

The Pricing Finally Makes More SenseWhen Volkswagen finally launched the ID. Buzz in America, the reaction was a bit mixed. People still loved the idea of a modern electric Microbus, especially one that looked this close to the original Type 2. But once pricing entered the conversation, enthusiasm cooled off pretty quickly. The ID. Buzz started at over $60,000 in the US, which made it a tough sell for buyers expecting something more approachable from a vehicle built largely on nostalgia. That became an even bigger issue once some dealers began stacking markups on top of MSRP, with a few examples reportedly climbing into six-figure territory during the early rollout. To be fair, the ID. Buzz itself isn’t the problem. It’s roomy, quirky, comfortable, and still one of the most recognizable EVs on sale today. The issue was always whether buyers were willing to spend luxury SUV money on a retro-styled electric minivan with modest range figures. That’s starting to change as dealers across the US are now cutting prices on leftover 2025 inventory, with some listings dropping into the mid-$40,000 range. At those numbers, the ID. Buzz becomes a much more reasonable option. Volkswagen Discounts Are Getting Surprisingly AggressiveAccording to dealer listings cited by Elektrek, some 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Pro S models are now being advertised for less than $49,000 before additional incentives. One Illinois dealer reportedly listed a new unit at around $48,365, while other stores in Georgia, Ohio, Indiana, and California were also showing sizable markdowns. In some cases, discounts have topped $15,000 when dealer incentives and Volkswagen bonuses are combined. One Indiana listing even dropped the price into the low $40,000s after all discounts were applied. The ID. Buzz uses a 91-kWh battery and is rated for up to 234 miles of range in rear-wheel-drive form. Standard models make 282 horsepower, while the AWD 4Motion version bumps that to 335 horsepower, though with a bit less range. Range is still not a strong point, especially next to rivals like the Kia EV9 or Hyundai Ioniq 9, which both offer better efficiency and value on paper. But neither of those options brings the same personality as the ID. Buzz, which is still the only EV that fully embraces classic van nostalgia. Volkswagen VW is Already Looking Ahead to 2027Part of the reason dealers appear eager to move inventory is that Volkswagen has already confirmed there won’t be a 2026 ID. Buzz for the US market. The company previously said it was pausing the model for America following an assessment of current EV market conditions. Instead, Volkswagen plans to focus on clearing existing inventory before preparing for a 2027 return. VW hasn’t fully detailed what that larger 2027 plan looks like yet, though the move suggests the automaker may be repositioning the ID. Buzz for a more serious second attempt in the American market. In the meantime, buyers willing to overlook the range limitations may finally be able to see the ID. Buzz at the price it probably should’ve launched with from the start. Volkswagen View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Constant EvolutionThere are classic automotive shapes that simply cannot be changed dramatically. A prime example of that is the Porsche 911. We still remember the uproar over the 'fried egg' headlights on the 996, a seemingly minor thing that led fans to raise their figurative pitchforks. Another example is Mini, and the rebirth of the car in 2001 was, thankfully, met with a strong reception. It's always risky to modernize a classic shape, but so far, the company has been doing a fine job of it for the past 25 years. The Mini lineup has since expanded to several models, but the cars still retain the character one expects from the brand. Mini Expect Big ChangesOf course, the challenge for any automaker is where to go next. It's an even bigger one for Mini, as one could say it's constrained by its design language. Still, that's not stopping newly minted design chief Holger Hampf from taking on that monumental task. Speaking to Autocar, the designer didn't lay all the cards on the table just yet when it comes to setting a new direction. He did, however, say enough for us to expect significant changes in Mini's design. "You will see my work in an upcoming LCI," said Hampf. By that, he means Life Cycle Impulse, which is BMW-speak for a facelift. That means we can expect a couple of Mini models to get refreshes down the line, and those cars could preview what we might see in future models. Mini What Will be Refreshed?Autocar reckons the Cooper, Countryman, and Aceman will all get facelifts within the next two years. The Cooper and Countryman were totally redesigned in 2023, and are part of Mini's product cycle; those cars are, indeed, due for updates. The Aceman, on the other hand, was introduced in 2024, meaning we might see the LCI version by either late 2027 or early 2028. Hampf also brought back the subject of an off-road vehicle. He had previously mentioned that he would like to make a version of the Countryman for the outdoor lifestyle crowd. Should he get his way, we might just see a high(er) riding Mini with all-terrain tires. It's also worth noting that parent company BMW would like to explore that market. Mini Future ModelsIt will be interesting to see how Hampf will refresh the current Mini models. Hopefully, it's not just a few trim changes, since he had hyped up what we can expect from the brand. Of course, it can't be too radically different, or it will put off Mini traditionalists, as the Countryman hadn't already. The facelifts will be the first steps towards a 'new era of Mini.' That said, the design chief mentioned that his team is now working on the next-generation models. Like BMW, Minis typically have a seven-year cycle. If we were to follow that, we might see an all-new Cooper and Countryman by either 2031 or 2032, and a second-generation Aceman come 2033. MINI View the full article

Brand Loyalty Isn’t What It Used To BeBrand loyalty used to come naturally in the car industry. Buyers would purchase a vehicle from brands like Toyota or Honda, build years of trust with the dealership, then return later for another vehicle. That cycle helped create generations of repeat customers. While those brands still rank highly in customer loyalty studies today, the reasons people stay loyal are changing quickly. Vehicle affordability is now putting pressure on customer retention across the entire industry. As prices continue to climb, buyers are shopping around more aggressively for the best financing, after-sales support, and overall ownership experience. Increasingly, the deciding factor between dealerships selling similar vehicles is no longer the product itself. It is customer service. More specifically, it is how customers are treated during ownership, especially after the sale is completed. That makes the first service appointment far more important than many dealerships realize. Getty Images The First Service Appointment Is Becoming CriticalAccording to Automotive News, Cox Automotive surveyed 2,502 consumers who serviced a vehicle within the last 12 months, along with 500 fixed operations managers from franchised dealerships. One of the clearest findings was that dealerships are steadily losing customers to independent repair shops and quick-service centers. Between 2018 and 2025, the dealership share of service visits dropped from 33% to 29%. Meanwhile, general repair facilities increased from 25% to 27%, while quick lube chains rose from 12% to 14%. The drop becomes even more alarming as vehicles age. Dealerships handled 68% of service visits for vehicles under two years old in 2018. By 2025, that number fell sharply to 55%. For vehicles between 2 and 5 years old, dealership service share dropped from 58% to 45%. That matters because the most profitable ownership years happen later in a vehicle’s lifespan. Cox Automotive estimates that roughly 80% of service spending occurs between years six and 10. With Americans now keeping vehicles for an average of 8.4 years, dealerships that lose customers early are missing out on the most profitable service years. Getty Dealers Still Aren’t Taking Advantage of the OpportunityThe study found that more than half of consumers surveyed, around 56%, said their service experience strongly influences whether they would buy their next vehicle from the same dealership. Despite that, only about 25% of dealerships schedule a customer’s first service appointment at the time of purchase. According to Cox Automotive, customers who return to the dealership for service are twice as likely to buy another vehicle from that retailer later. Some automakers have already started offering loyalty incentives and special discounts just to keep existing customers from leaving the brand. Ford Motor Company, for example, recently introduced offers aimed at retaining Escape owners after discontinuing the model. However, discounts alone cannot fix poor customer experiences. The dealership visit still leaves the biggest impression on buyers. A smooth first appointment builds familiarity, trust, and long-term retention. A bad one sends customers directly to the nearest independent repair shop. Stick around for next week’s investigative report confirming that water is still wet. Getty Images View the full article

Open Production Floor Volvo Cars is opening up its doors to other automakers in a bid to maximize its production facility in South Carolina. Volvo Cars' CEO, Hakan Samuelsson, went on record at the Future of the Car Conference that the brand can do something to help the U.S. auto industry. The move is opportune and comes at a time when other automakers are working around U.S. President Donald Trump's duties on imported cars. American brands are set to receive up to $2.3 billion in tariff refunds, but others aren't as lucky. New developments could see other imported cars jump up in price. With that, Volvo may be able to help imported brands set up shop with a small catch. Volvo Looking for Production Partners President Donald Trump wants to bring manufacturing back to the United States. Foreign brands like Toyota, Honda, and Nissan are even producing products for export back to Japan, which is a more favorable landscape for automakers with local U.S. production facilities. However, not every brand is as fortunate as Audi and Porsche, to name a few. Volvo is determined to build more cars in the U.S., and it's even open to cooperation with other brands. The deal there is assembly, construction, parts sourcing, and supply chain. The current production capacity of the Volvo plant is set at about 150,000 cars per year. The factory is located in Ridgeville, South Carolina, and it's currently producing the Volvo EX90 and Polestar 3, with the XC60 planned for production later this year, 2026. While Volvo may have its own production to worry about, it's also concerned with facility expansion and its goal of being more present in the U.S. When asked why Volvo is open to partnerships, CEO Hakan Samuelsson said, "That is something I think we need as we are now increasing our presence in the U.S." He continued, It's part of the regionalization of the world, we need to be much more industrially present in the U.S., and we need to fill the factory we have here." Volvo The Catch: Geely Holdings Zooming out, Volvo's openness to partnership could be part of a bigger plan for Geely to gain more footing in the U.S. The Chinese auto group has just entered Canada under the Lotus brand, and Volvo and Polestar are well-positioned to facilitate the group's growth. The strategy could play out well for Geely, as Volvo is one of the group's trump cards, already giving it an advantage over other Chinese brands without U.S. plants. If another brand were to step into the Geely Volvo factory in South Carolina, technically speaking, Geely Holdings would become more present in the U.S., a feat that other Chinese brands are currently struggling with at the moment. Volvo's CEO also went on record, stating that he is open to producing low-cost Chinese-based EVs in the U.S., essentially leaving the door open to Geely to enter and sell their cars under the leverage of local assembly. Volvo View the full article

Another Mazda Crossover Coming SoonMazda has no shortage of crossover offerings worldwide. If anything, most of its lineup consists of those, leaving just the 3, MX-5, and, in some markets, the 6e as its non-crossover models. From subcompact to midsize, the Hiroshima-based company has it all and is squeezing into the gaps in between to make sure all bases are covered. Now, there's another one coming, and Mazda has confirmed it. It's the next-generation CX-3, and the brand hopes to achieve higher sales volume once the model is out. It Lives for Another GenerationWe're genuinely surprised that Mazda kept the CX-3 nameplate. Introduced in 2014, it's well over a decade old now, and even the facelifted model from 2018 isn't getting any younger. It was initially thought that the model would be replaced and carry a different name. With the recent announcement, the subcompact smaller than the CX-30 will, indeed, live to see an all-new model. So, why keep the CX-3? Although it was discontinued in the U.S. in 2021, the model remains hugely popular, particularly in Asia and Oceania. If anything, the CX-3 was kept alive primarily by the Australian and Thai markets, proving a strong seller despite its age and the arrival of the CX-30. The name holds strong equity, and it's the least expensive Mazda crossover anyone can buy. That's despite it actually offering only slightly more ground clearance or space than the Mazda2. Mazda Launch Year Locked-InAside from the model's announcement, the launch year has also been locked in. The all-new CX-3 will make its world premiere in 2027, likely for the 2028 model year. The car will be built at the AAT plant in Thailand, and will likely serve as the model's main production hub. Mazda even said that Thai-built second-gen CX-3s will be exported to Japan, similar to what Honda has been doing with the CR-V and Accord, and what Toyota has been doing with the Hilux and Land Cruiser FJ. The AAT plant in Thailand recently received further investment, mainly to build hybrid vehicles for Southeast Asia. With that in mind, there's a good chance the CX-3 will be electrified, like many of its rivals in the class. Specifics haven't been given about the powertrain yet, but it could benefit from Toyota tech like the CX-50. As for the look, we expect it to draw some cues from the Vision X-Compact shown at last year's Japan Mobility Show. Of course, it won't look as radical as the concept, but it'll be interesting to see how Mazda applies the new design philosophy for its future subcompact crossover. Mazda Mazda View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Gen Z Car Enthusiasts Are Reviving Forgotten IconsGen Z may not be embracing car culture at the same level as previous generations, but the enthusiasts who are diving in seem to be gravitating toward objects and experiences that many millennials once ignored or discarded. Digital cameras, cassette players, vintage electronics, and even old-school performance cars are finding a second life among younger buyers. One of the more surprising examples is the Chevrolet Cobalt SS, which recently landed on Hagerty’s list of the most popular enthusiast vehicles among Gen Z buyers. According to GM Authority, Hagerty’s insurance quote data show that younger enthusiasts born between 1997 and 2012 are actively shopping for affordable, attainable enthusiast cars instead of traditional collector vehicles. Japanese icons like the Honda Beat, Acura RSX, and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI heavily dominate the list. The Cobalt SS stands out as the only American entry. That alone says a lot about how tastes are changing. Younger buyers are looking for analog driving experiences and tuner-friendly platforms without spending six figures. The Cobalt SS Was Once GM’s Unexpected Performance HeroWhen the Cobalt SS first arrived in the mid-2000s, there was genuine excitement around it. Chevrolet positioned it as a serious rival to the growing sport-compact scene, especially as import-tuner culture exploded in popularity. Early supercharged models came equipped with a 2.0-liter LSJ four-cylinder engine producing 205 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual transmission, sport suspension, aggressive styling, and optional Recaro seats helped give the car real enthusiast credibility at the time. Things became even more serious in 2008 when Chevrolet introduced the turbocharged version powered by the 2.0-liter LNF engine. Output jumped to 260 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, which was massive for a front-wheel-drive compact at the time. Chevrolet also added launch control, no-lift shifting, Brembo brakes, and sharper suspension tuning. Performance improved dramatically with 0-to-60 mph times dropping to around 5.5 seconds. Despite all of that, the Cobalt SS slowly faded from mainstream attention as newer hot hatches and turbo sedans arrived. Today, though, affordable prices and huge aftermarket support are making the car attractive once again. General Motors The LowdownFor many millennials, the Cobalt SS was the kind of car you drove endlessly in racing games before eventually forgetting about it in real life. It was the underdog compact that often sat in the shadow of Japanese rivals despite offering serious performance for the money. Some enthusiasts still remember it from racing titles and tuner culture forums more than they remember seeing it on the road. That nostalgia factor appears to be working in Gen Z’s favor as younger buyers rediscover a genuinely capable performance sedan that does not require exotic car money. There is also something refreshing about Gen Z digging into the forgotten corners of car culture rather than simply chasing the latest trends. Cars like the Cobalt SS offer a more mechanical, raw driving experience that feels increasingly rare today. Of course, owning an aging GM performance car may come with a few headaches, especially when reliability and maintenance enter the picture. Still, if younger enthusiasts are willing to keep these overlooked machines alive, the enthusiast community is probably better for it. Murilee Martin View the full article

Still Missed After All These YearsSaab's story is one that's filled with clever innovations that ended far too soon. Despite multiple attempts to resuscitate it, its doors closed for good in 2016. That effectively ended the company's car manufacturing arm after 71 years. NEVS, the company that was supposed to restart 9-3 production, just folded this year. The brand is still very much missed, and a strong following for the Swedish automaker remains. We can spend countless hours talking about the marque's greatest hits, but we're writing about Saan today for a totally different reason. Klaravik Last ChanceFor those who want to own a piece of history or a near-brand-new Saab, this is your final chance. As NEVS liquidates its assets, several cars have emerged from the woodwork. More specifically, seven different 9-3 models have come up for sale, a mix of Saab- and NEVS-badged cars, all of which are up for auction. The auction is being held by Klaravik, a company better known for selling off heavy machinery or company assets. This time around, it's part of Saab history. So, what's up for bidding? Read on. Klaravik The CarsUp for grabs are three 9-3 Aero sedans built in 2014. Note that these are pre-production examples, although all are drivable. The lowest mileage car for sale has about 11,500 miles on the clock. The lone black unit has a little over 24,000 miles, while the highest-mileage car has around 36,400 miles. Not exactly brand-new, but low mileage nonetheless. These cars were used for internal transport. You also have the chance to buy one of the few remaining NEVS 9-3s. It's essentially a 9-3 that's battery-powered, with an estimated mileage of approximately 23,600 miles. Like the Saabs, this NEVS 9-3 is drivable and was also used for internal transport. The three remaining cars are prototypes, one of which we believe is highly relevant and could have sold well had NEVS not gone bust. The first one is an EV but with four in-wheel motors. The second is a testbed for autonomous driving, while the third is a range-extended electric vehicle. Given the current automotive climate, the REEV could've been a hit, especially in Asia. Klaravik Auction DetailsBidding will be held at Saab's former headquarters in Trollhättan on May 30, 2026. The auction will also be a meet for Saab enthusiasts, so it's a bit of a bittersweet event. With that, there's still time to book a flight to Sweden for one last look before these cars go home to their new owners. Those (very) interested in bringing one of these to the U.S must first register with Klaravik as a company to be able to bid. Once you've done that, you'll be pleased to know that the cars are being sold at no reserve, and bidding starts at 0 Swedish Krona. We're curious if the pre-production cars can be registered, and we do hope that these 9-3s go to a home. Klaravik View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Oil Shortage Incoming? It's no secret that the war in Iran has put a strain on the world's oil supply. Fuel prices have shot up, but now it appears a motor oil shortage is on the way, at least according to a post on X about a Toyota bulletin issued to North American service managers. The document, dated late last month, April 30, 2026, details that there will be a shortage of certain oil weights at North American Toyota dealerships and that dealers might have to substitute these oils for something else in the meantime. Other sources, such as The Drive, have picked up on the story, going so far as to reach out to a Toyota rep to verify the story. So far, no further comment has been logged. I Do Cars/YouTube Parts and Accessories News Today (PANT) What may sound like another automotive maintenance blog is actually an internal bulletin issued to dealers that informs them of changes and incoming news that could affect them. The latest was sent to Toyota parts and service managers under the subject line "Temporary 02-8 and 0W-16 Oil Supply and Maintenance Guidelines." "Toyota and our supplier ExxonMobil may experience challenges in fulfilling demand for Genuine Toyota Motor Oil (GTMO) 0W-8 and 0W-16 oils due to production and logistics constraints within the global petrochemical supply chain. While Toyota and ExxonMobil continue to work diligently to maintain supply, the following substitution guidelines are recommended for dealers to help manage the demand for the affected products. These measures may allow ExxonMobil to maintain a consistent service-level fill for dealers and help provide continued support for our guests." "TMNA [Toyota Motor North America] recommends dealers follow these substitution guidelines one day per week for 0W-8 and 0W-16 or use the substitution percentages set forth below until further written notice. This approach is intended to temporarily reduce demand for both oil weights and support continued national supply." This is a PANT Bulletin - but I expect a further move as supply shortens pic.twitter.com/1PPZHwWPqi — Costa Kapothanasis (@CostaKapo) May 12, 2026 Recommended Substitutes To alleviate supply woes, the bulletin also instructed dealers to field substitutes in light of storage, albeit only for one service interval. According to the bulletin, 20% of incoming cars that require 0W-8 GTMO will use 0W-16 GTMO instead, and 10% of incoming cars that require 0W-16 will use 0W-20 GTMO. The bulletin further clarifies: "Toyota Genuine 0W-8 motor oil can be substituted with Toyota Genuine 0W-16 for one service interval." "Toyota Genuine 0W-16 motor oil can be substituted with Toyota Genuine 0W-20 for one service interval." "Always use Toyota Genuine API SP (0W-16) / GLV-1 (0W-8) multigrade oil of the specified viscosity. As for the substitution, certain issues may arise, but given that Toyota issued the memo themselves, you could say that anything related to the manufacturer's warranty and car insurance should remain intact. The memo doesn't detail whether a price increase is on the way; in fact, the guidelines in the memo speak more about inventory management than a price hike. As for Toyota's supply, one can infer that they're in the yellow zone for now. As the situation develops, we can expect more bulletins to come out, not just from Toyota but from the rest of the industry as well. In the same X thread, Kapothanasis stated that Mobil and Shell are also informing their retailers that they have nothing to send, so customers might see the brands' shelves "bare" in the next few weeks as demand outpaces supply. In that case, Toyota's already managing its consumption given the current shortage environment. View the full article

A Small Recall That Reaches Across Nearly Every GM BrandHot on the heels of Ford’s recall for older F-150s, GM is now facing its own recall – this time covering a wide range of Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac vehicles. The issue isn’t limited to just one type of vehicle; it stretches from full-size SUVs to half-ton pickups. The silver lining: despite the long list of models, only 66 vehicles are actually involved. That includes a few older trucks and SUVs, plus some of the latest 2026 models. This recall is focused on four-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models; two-wheel-drive versions are in the clear. The list covers 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL, along with 2026 Silverado 1500, Sierra 1500, Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, and Escalade. According to GM, one replacement transfer-case assembly may also have been installed in an older truck or SUV during a previous repair, which widened the recall beyond current-production vehicles. Missing Transfer-Case Part Could Cause Wheel Lock-UpAccording to NHTSA’s recall report, a missing oil pickup tube inside the transfer case was the main culprit for the recall. Without it, key bearings don’t get the lubrication they need, which can cause internal damage and, in the worst case, make the wheels lock up while you’re driving. GM says you might hear a grinding noise before things get serious, but there’s no guarantee you’ll get any warning before the wheels suddenly lock. GM traced the root cause to changes on the supplier’s assembly line at Magna Powertrain de México. Some transfer cases left the factory incomplete because standard procedures and error checks weren’t followed during production. The issue first showed up when a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 locked up its wheels in a parking lot. When GM tore down the transfer case, they found the missing oil pickup tube. That discovery kicked off GM’s safety investigation in April 2026. So far, GM has found four field complaints that might be tied to this defect. The good news: there haven’t been any crashes or injuries reported. Chevrolet GM Says Owners Should Not Drive Affected VehiclesGM isn’t taking any chances. Owners are being told not to drive their trucks or SUVs until a dealer can check the transfer case and make repairs if needed. Dealers will inspect the transfer-case assembly and replace it if needed. GM says replacement parts either come from production batches outside the suspect manufacturing window or have already been rebuilt to fix the issue. The automaker also noted that supplier process corrections and additional validation checks were completed on April 2, 2026, meaning newer production vehicles should no longer carry the defect. Owner notification letters are expected to begin mailing on June 22, 2026. In the meantime, affected owners can check their VINs through GM or NHTSA recall databases to see if their vehicle is included. General Motors View the full article

Honda Needs a Shot in the ArmHonda's EV gamble had ended in disaster. Not only that, the collaboration with Sony is as good as dead. As a result, the Japanese automaker had suffered its first loss in nearly 70 years. The next couple of years will be tough, for sure, but we're pretty sure Honda won't take its current situation lightly. During the company's recent business update conference, CEO Toshihiro Mibe revealed two concepts that will shape its future. One is called the Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype, and the other is the Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype. Sure, the names aren't the most imaginative, but they give a sneak peek of what lies ahead. Honda Honda Hybrid Sedan PrototypeHonda didn't say much about the car other than simply showing it. There was no explanation of which model it previews, nor were any technical specifications mentioned. That said, we reckon this might be a glimpse of what Honda plans for the next-generation Civic. Should that be the case, we might be looking at a very radical redesign of the compact sedan. The sharp, angular lines and the fastback shape are a massive departure from the current Civic, and if Honda goes for this look, it'll certainly raise some eyebrows. Curiously, it comes with those DOT side markers, hinting at Honda's focus on the North American market. Honda There's also the possibility that it's the next-generation Accord. In photos, at least, the car looks large, although the modern Civic is bordering on midsize in length. However, it's worth noting that the eleventh-generation Civic is now four years old and is closer to a full model change than the Accord. Honda Acura Hybrid SUV ConceptLike the Honda, the Acura concept had close to no details mentioned. However, it's easier to predict what next-generation model it could eventually become. Our best guess is that it'll be the fourth-generation RDX, given the model's proportions. At the same time, Acura announced the redesigned crossover will arrive 'in the next couple of years.' The concept also aligns with the teaser photothe company released earlier this year. The shape of the headlights is identical, and the distinct shoulder line on the quarter panel matches that of the car that was just displayed. Of course, we'd like to see more angles of the crossover, but Honda only provided one photo of each. Honda When Can We Expect These?According to Honda, we can see the production versions of these concepts within the next two years.' Looking at the product timelines for Honda and Acura models suggests we're looking at the future Civic and RDX. Two years from now, the eleventh-gen Civic will be seven years old, while the RDX was put on hiatus until the arrival of the all-new model. Given Honda's current situation, it needs a raft of redesigned models to turn the ship around. Its midsize models will have to hang on for a little longer in their current iterations. However, it appears that Honda will put more effort into fine-tuning its compact offerings. Acura View the full article

Honda’s Rough Year is Forcing a Change in DirectionHonda is now in rebuilding mode after a $2.5 billion loss for fiscal 2025 – the biggest in its history. The company’s rapid EV push, mixed with softer demand and higher costs, has put it in a spot that looks a lot like where Nissan found itself not long ago. Honda isn’t in a full-blown crisis, but it’s definitely making course corrections. At a business meeting in Japan, Honda announced its plan for the next few years. As one of Honda’s most profitable markets, North America is at the heart of this reset. That said, Honda is now shaping its future lineup around what people are actually buying. That means hybrids take priority over a full-speed EV rollout. For Honda, the goal by the end of fiscal 2029 is to return to a record-high operating profit of over 1.4 trillion yen, or around $8.9 billion at today’s exchange rates. Honda North America is the Priority for Honda’s Hybrid PushThe biggest shift is Honda’s pivot to hybrids, especially for North America. Development and production resources are being redirected right away, with a new wave of next-gen hybrids set to arrive starting in 2027. By 2029, Honda will roll out 15 new hybrid models globally, most of which are headed to North America. More importantly, bigger D-segment hybrids are coming, which means midsize hybrid SUVs and possibly large, family-focused crossovers aimed at American buyers. Honda also previewed two upcoming products: the Honda Hybrid Sedan Prototype (probably the next Civic Hybrid) and the Acura Hybrid SUV Prototype (the RDX Hybrid). Both are expected to arrive within the next two years and will introduce the brand’s next-generation hybrid system. Honda says the new hybrid system will cut costs by more than 30% and boost fuel economy by over 10% compared to current models. The new platform and electric AWD are also supposed to sharpen driving feel – something Honda has always been known for. Honda’s manufacturing is shifting as well. All North American plants will eventually be set up to build hybrids, and the Ohio plant will use its extra capacity for both hybrid and gas-powered models. Even the US battery partnership with LG Energy Solution is being reworked to support hybrids, not just EVs. Honda Trying to Stabilize FinancesHonda is also moving resources to Japan, India, and China as part of its recovery plan. In Japan, the focus is on expanding the EV lineup with kei cars like the N-BOX EV, due in 2028. Future models, starting with the next Vezel (HR-V), will get updated hybrid systems and new driver-assist tech. Honda also wants to boost profits with higher-margin trims like Sport Line and Trail Line. In China, Honda plans to cut costs and speed things up by using more local parts, regional tech, and partner-developed platforms. On the financial side, Honda’s next three years are all about rebuilding the car business before trying to grow again later on. The plan is to cut back significantly on EV spending and allocate more money to hybrids, combustion engines, and software. This is a clear shift from Honda’s earlier all-in EV strategy. Instead of going all-out on electric right away, Honda is now balancing hybrids, gas engines, and new software while waiting for EV demand to settle. For North America, that’s probably a better match for what most buyers want right now. Honda View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

For the sixth annual Overland Expo adventure vehicle "Ultimate Build," Nissan has come to the party with a special 2026 Frontier PRO-4X, modified to be the ideal home base for those who like taking the road less traveled. The special build makes its public debut at Overland Expo West this weekend (May 15-17) in Flagstaff, Arizona, before it tours other Overland Expo events and is used for media drives. So what did Overland Expo change, exactly? Not anything under the hood, where the durable 3.8-liter V6 engine (Nissan's favorite) provides 310 naturally aspirated horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, though a Borla exhaust system upgrade did get the nod. Aftermarket Upgrades and Accessories Take Frontier PRO-4X Further Nissan NISMO rock sliders and underbody skid plates help keep the build going in precarious situations, while a heavy-duty winch system was added to the front of the Frontier (sorry, couldn't resist) to help pull the pickup out of trouble if it gets stuck. Black Rhino 17-inch alloy wheels in a satin grey finish and Lava Red lettering are shod in Hankook Dynapro AT2 all-terrain tires, and Bilstein suspension upgrades designed to provide greater wheel articulation and overall composure also appear. A steel front bumper makes the truck even more rugged, and to make the vehicle more livable, it gets a bed-mounted pop-up camper, and additional lights help get to the campsite in the dark and see around it once home base is all set up. The bed-mounted accessories also include multiple jerry cans in case the adventure leaves the V6 too thirsty for just one tank of fuel. Nissan View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Not too much else is necessary because the PRO-4X variant gets an electronic locking rear differential, an off-road mode that can be used at speeds of up to 12 mph, and a surround-view monitor that helps the driver see obstacles around the truck. "The Frontier PRO-4X is one of the most honest overland platforms on the market," according to Anthony Sicola, Ultimate Vehicle Build project manager at Overland Expo. "It doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not – and that’s exactly why it works so well. It’s capable, comfortable, and adaptable, which makes it a perfect canvas for long-term overland travel." Overlanding Nissan Frontier Will Be Up for Grabs Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article If you like what you see in these images, the Ultimate Overland Vehicle will be auctioned on Bring-a-Trailer later this year, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the Overland Expo Foundation, which "protects and advances the overland community." If you'd rather build your own off-road Frontier, the 2026 model carries a base MSRP of $32,150, though the PRO-4X is a little pricier, starting at $38,570 in 4x2 form and $41,870 with 4x4. There's also a Long Bed version of the latter for $42,370. If you don't mind waiting, details on the 2027 Nissan Frontier are coming soon, so stay tuned. Nissan View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

There's been a lot of talk about a new electric Golf over the last few years, potentially even as a replacement for the combustion version. Volkswagen is no longer talking about it as a replacement, instead saying an electric and a gas Golf will coexist, with the latter recently becoming a hybrid and the former being delayed. The delay was reportedly due to budget constraints that would come under too much additional pressure if EV-building upgrades to the Wolfsburg plant were to go ahead. But now Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer has said the electric Golf is not necessary now, next year, or even in 2028. VW Boss: No Need for Electric Golf With Current Lineup Volkswagen According to Autocar, Schäfer said at the FT's Future Car of the Car event in London, "We have a fantastic lineup now that we do not need an electric Golf in 2028. We are well set with what we have in our portfolio with our vehicles." Turning the Golf electric is a double-edged sword for VW. On the one hand, it's an iconic, instantly recognizable, and globally loved nameplate that could help increase interest in EVs. On the other hand, that exact reputation could be smeared if the electric Golf does not meet expectations (yes, VW did produce an e-Golf in the past, but that was when competition in the compact segment was not as intense as it is today, and while that e-Golf was decent as an addition to the Golf menu, other automakers have since made compact EVs that are brilliant). Fortunately, Volkswagen does not see the need to take that route just yet. Related: This Is Your First Look at the Volkswagen Golf 9 Along with the ID.4 and ID. Buzz, for example, Volkswagen will be expanding its EV lineup this year with cars including the ID. Polo, the ID.3 Neo, and the ID. Cross, with others like the ID. Tiguan expected to join later. Schäfer's comments not only indicate that an electric Golf is unnecessary right now, but also that it is inevitable. Perhaps VW is worried that an ID. Golf would be too popular, taking some of the limelight off the likes of the ID. Polo. Another reason could be that the Scalable Systems Platform architecture atop which the Golf EV will sit still needs more work, hinted Schäfer. VW's Next-Gen Golf EV Should Be Worth the Wait Volkswagen The SSP system will be an 800-volt setup with more advanced battery technology and, after VW's attempt at in-house software development with the Cariad division fell apart, a new software architecture developed alongside Rivian, which VW is now the biggest shareholder in. However, the Golf won't be the first product we see from these efforts, with Audi and Porsche getting first dibs, according to Schäfer. "SSP, we will roll it out across the brands. We will start with the premium brands first," he said, adding, "It will start with Audi, then Porsche, then us [Volkswagen] and on and on." With "increased competition" from Chinese EV brands, VW needs to find ways to make cars more affordably, and sharing costs with other automakers in the VW Group is just one of the methods VW has to employ. View the full article

Toyota's Performance Car ResurgenceAbout 20 years ago, Toyota's performance car offerings had all but dried up. The MR2 Spyder had been discontinued in the U.S, and the Celica was on its last legs. The next couple of years saw Japan's biggest automaker roll along without any models that would get the heart racing. Thankfully, that was rectified with the GT 86, initially called the Scion FR-S in America. What followed was a flurry of sports models that, in many ways, brought back Toyota's mojo. After the 86, the Supra returned in 2017, and its first serious hot hatch, the GR Yaris, followed in 2020. The GR Corolla debuted in 2022, and now the first standalone GR model has been revealed: the GT. Toyota, of all brands, is waving the flag for Japanese performance cars worldwide. Toyota Built by SpecialistsHagerty, specifically Larry Chen, was recently granted exclusive access to the GR assembly line. There, we not only see how the cars are made but also how seriously Toyota takes its performance cars. By the time you finish the video, there's a good chance you'll have a greater appreciation for the GR models. For starters, the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Lexus LBX Morizo RR aren't built on the same assembly line as their more pedestrian counterparts. These cars are built in a dedicated facility within the Motomachi plant. It's something that Toyota didn't need to do to save costs, but did anyway. That said, it's worth mentioning that the new U.S-bound GR Corollas are made in England, not Japan. Chen noted that GR models are built more by hand than by robots. That's because the structures of these cars are much stiffer than standard ones. There's additional spot welding done, and there's heaps more structural adhesives to make the cars as rigid as possible. But what amazes the most is the speed of the line workers, and the attention to detail given by those who build the cars is truly something else. The entire video is over 40 minutes long, but every minute is worth watching. Bonus ContentIf that wasn't enough, Chen was also allowed to do a ride-along with a mid-engined GR Yaris prototype. Mind you, the test mule doesn't have the new G20E; instead, sticking with the G16E. Still, that's one heck of a privilege, and Chen said that the car moves differently, completely transforming the small hot hatch. If Toyota is, indeed, working on an MR2, it's looking very promising. The video also explored the passionate engineers of GR. Turns out, there are amateur and professional racing drivers who build and develop the cars. If anything, the entire operation is run by people with fuel in their veins and not merely people doing a job for the sake of it. Of course, it helps that the chairperson doesn't just have his family name on the building, but is also a hands-on car guy. Oh, there's even a quick tour of Akio Toyoda's 'man cave' within the facility. Toyota View the full article

Every country that sits next to a hostile neighbour needs a credible army. South Korea has known this for seven decades, maintaining one of Asia's largest standing forces through mandatory military service. But numbers are slipping fast. Troop strength has fallen roughly 20 percent over six years, sitting at around 450,000, and that figure is projected to drop further. The reason isn't conflict or desertion. It's demographics. South Korea has the world's lowest birth rate, and that means fewer bodies available to serve today. It’s what makes the conversation now happening with Hyundai Motor Group so significant. Hyundai Hyundai's Robots Are Already Built for ThisIt is a strange thing to imagine a car company helping to defend a border. But Hyundai's ambitions long ago outgrew the factory floor and the showroom. The group's robotics arm has spent years developing platforms that, with very little modification, map neatly onto non-combat military needs. A wheeled logistics bot built for last-mile deliveries becomes a supply runner in forward positions. An exoskeleton designed to stop warehouse workers throwing their backs out becomes a load-bearing kit for soldiers on the move. Boston Dynamics' Spot, the dog-like robot Hyundai snapped up in 2021, was already being used in industrial inspections and emergency response. The AI-powered Atlas, suitable for a variety of jobs on the floor and capable of learning, could be a reconnaissance tool. These are not prototype concepts being reverse-engineered for defence. They are working machines finding a new employer. Hyundai View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Where Cars End and Defence BeginsWhat makes Hyundai so well placed for this is the same thing that makes its EV division competitive globally. The electric and electronic architecture developed for autonomous vehicles transfers into robotic platforms with unusual speed. Hyundai is already testing humanoid robots in its shipyards through HD Hyundai affiliates, and in early 2026 donated unmanned firefighting machines to Korea's national fire agency. The line between carmaker, tech company, and defence supplier is getting very thin. For Hyundai, robots are simply the next frontier after engines. View the full article

After the new Mustang GTD Competition variant smashed the Corvette ZR1X's Nürburgring lap time to become the fastest American car ever to lap the Green Hell last month, Ford is introducing an updated look for the GTD Spirit of America. The new look comes in the year that America celebrates 250 years of independence, and the theme incorporating the colors of the flag is truly striking. Things under the hood remain unchanged, so let's take a closer look at what has been revised. Mustang GTD Spirit of America 2.0: Subtle Updates Ford The red, white, and blue livery on the GTD Spirit of America's new look is an asymmetrical one, with Lightning Blue stripes running along the driver's side of the vehicle and down the middle, with a narrower Race Red stripe on the passenger side of the Performance White body. The thicker of the blue stripes and the red stripe stop at the vents on the hood, and this offset pattern is also meant to reference the iconic tri-bar seen on the classic Mustang logo. The mirror caps are finished in red, as are the end plates on the enormous top-hung rear wing, but this is not a change from the previous Spirit of America look. In case you don't recall the old look, this had just two narrow stripes, one red and one blue, both running along the middle of the car, from front bumper to hood, roof, trunk, and rear bumper. Related: Ford Might Be Turning Its Track-Focused Mustang Into a Convertible Everything else has been left alone, including the MUSTANG script under the wing and all the exposed carbon fiber elements, which include the front splitter and dive planes, side skirts, rear wing, and fender louvers. As standard, the Mustang GTD Spirit of America comes with the Performance Package, which includes the aforementioned dive planes and splitter, as well as the drag reduction system on the rear wing. Underbody flaps are included, too, as is a lightweight package that removes sound deadening and 20-inch magnesium wheels. Mustang GTD Spirit of America Applications Are Open Ford View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Until May 18, Ford has opened the application window for potential North American buyers, and if approved, they'll get a 5.2-liter supercharged V8 with a claimed 815 horsepower (though the GTD may actually deliver more), propelling the most expensive and most extreme Mustang yet to a top speed of 202 mph. The 'regular' GTD starts somewhere north of $300,000 before the Spirit of America upgrade, but if you have loads of cash to spend, you can also opt for some truly exceptional paint finishes, as a Mustang GTD in Lamborghini Viola Pasiafae (purple) showed last month. There's also the undoubtedly expensive Liquid Carbon option, which provides the GTD with exposed carbon fiber. These sorts of options certainly place the GTD deeper in true supercar territory, and we hope to see owners showing the GTD's prowess at track days over the coming months and years. After all, that's what it was built for. View the full article

Smarter Than Small TalkRivian has built its reputation around software-defined vehicles, and its latest AI assistant could be one of its most notable upgrades so far. That’s because the system can control many vehicle functions through simple voice commands from the driver – something Tesla’s Grok integration has yet to match. While Tesla’s Grok currently cannot control climate settings or media playback, Rivian Assistant can handle those functions, along with changing drive modes and adjusting ride height. It can also answer in-vehicle troubleshooting questions, making it not only functional but genuinely useful for drivers. Rivian AI That Learns The DriverThe Rivian Assistant is built directly into the vehicle’s hardware and software, unlike phone-mirroring voice systems such as Apple CarPlay’s Siri. Rivian says the system can learn a driver’s preferences over time and better understand complex, contextual voice commands, such as “Make everyone’s seat toasty except mine.” Other notable capabilities include summarizing local news, handling more advanced navigation requests, and sending text messages in the owner’s preferred tone. As cars become more advanced, Rivian Assistant could help the brand keep pace with, if not move ahead of, many of its rivals. It could also prove crucial in attracting more buyers to the brand, especially with the upcoming R2, which is expected to become Rivian's volume seller. At the end of the day, some buyers will appreciate AI and the convenience it brings, while others may still prefer a more analog driving experience. Rivian The Cost Of Smarter CarsFor those willing to bet on the AI-powered assistant, Rivian offers it only through a Connect+ subscription. The service is essentially Rivian’s version of Tesla’s Premium Connectivity, enabling cellular-based features and enhanced in-car software functions. Connect+ costs $14.99 per month, about $5 more than Tesla’s monthly Premium Connectivity plan. It is worth noting that services like these require data collection. However, Rivian said privacy measures are available, including the ability to disable the “Hey Rivian” wake phrase, limit location sharing, or turn off the memory feature. Rivian Assistant is compatible with Gen 1 vehicles (built through the 2024 model year) and Gen 2 models (introduced for 2025 onward). Rivian’s current all-electric consumer lineup includes the R1T pickup and R1S SUV, while the upcoming R2 crossover is competing directly with the Tesla Model Y. Rivian View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article