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The Bigger Picture The Chief Design Officer for Stellantis, Ralph Gilles, shared a moment with Car Design News, sharing how automobiles are getting commoditized – think about how there is a section of the automotive industry that’s getting turned into appliances, or as he put it, “point A to point B.” As the head design honcho at Stellantis, he and his team deliver compelling work to brands like Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Jeep, and Dodge, among many others. Fourteen brands are under him, and I can only imagine how huge a task that is. Gilles is also responsible for the next-generation Ram 1500, which, unlike the Alfa Romeo and Maserati, is a mass-market nameplate. Maserati It’s Not Easy Designing an Affordable Product How do you make a product that is desirable and compelling while remaining within reach for most consumers? According to Gilles, it’s about “what is actually necessary.” While technology and safety features often come at a premium, ingrained design can still give a car mass appeal even if it isn’t rocking the latest or greatest. “An interpersonal relationship,” if you will, between the vehicle and its owner. Design plays a big part in establishing the human-machine connection. RAM About that Next-Generation Ram 1500… Americans love their full-sized trucks. The Ram 1500 is just one player in an arena filled with stiff competition. Now, about the current design trend of trucks. Big proportions, big grilles, all big everything. There’s something about these imposing fascias that just reels customers into dealerships. The Ram 1500 is yet another big-proportioned, big-grilled, and big-everything type of pickup truck in a sea of all-too-similar American counterparts, such as the F-150 and Silverado. Gilles said he felt the new GM trucks and even the Tesla Cybertrucks are “super exaggerated,” and he wondered, “Does everybody really like that?” It’s a good industry call-out. The status quo has been established, but is it really what people want, or is it because there is no choice in the realm of big American pickup trucks? Gilles stated that because of this, he implied that the next Ram 1500 will have “a different appeal. When you see it on the road, it’ll look much more futuristic.” Stellantis What Will the Next Ram 1500 Look Like? Not once did Gilles touch upon the Ram Revolution concept, but one can speculate that it could serve as the design launchpad for the next generation’s look. In fact, Gilles was also in charge during the concept’s design process and revealed it in 2024. Though any hope of that concept becoming a production-model Ram 1500 BEV has already worn thin. While we may never see a fully electric Ram 1500, the concept seems to fit the bill from a design standpoint. You can infer that Gilles wouldn’t want all his team’s hard work to go to waste, and I can say with certainty that the Ram Revolution Concept does indeed look “futuristic.” Because this will be a new design, the next-generation Ram 1500 team could move around a few design hardpoints to stay more true to the concept. Powertrain-wise, there is a low chance it could be a full EV because the Ram 1500 REV seems to be the play for the brand moving forward. Ram View the full article

On Saturday morning, the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series cars were set to go out on track for practice at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. However, it was a safety truck driver that ended up stealing the show with quite the save. Exiting the infield access road to the frontstretch, the safety truck started to spin sideways, with the driver quickly trying to recover it. However, it overcorrected ...Keep readingView the full article

Corvette’s Hybrid Identity CrisisThe Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray sounds like a clever evolution of the long-running Stingray nameplate, marking the model’s first-ever hybrid powertrain. However, according to sources cited by GM Authority, Chevrolet may be considering a name change to Grand Sport X, as the current name may be hurting sales. The report stated that the letter ‘E’ in E-Ray may confuse buyers, as it suggests the model is fully electric. That misconception is considered a factor in the hybrid sports car's reportedly falling short of sales expectations, with the Grand Sport X name seen as a way to address it. The rumored new name isn’t just a random change; it also carries historical significance within the model’s lineage. Chevrolet A Familiar Name ReturnsIn previous generations, the Grand Sport moniker sat between the base Stingray and the track-focused Z06 trim. For the uninitiated, Chevrolet has not yet introduced a Grand Sport for the current C8 generation, which debuted in 2019, though reports suggest it could finally arrive sometime later this year. The “X” in Grand Sport X would also follow the naming pattern of its more extreme hybrid sibling, the ZR1X, although the brand has maintained that the letter does not stand for anything in particular. The regular C8 Corvette Grand Sport is expected to use a new 6.7-liter naturally aspirated small-block V8, likely designated LS6. Historically, Grand Sport trims feature a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout, which should help distinguish it from the E-Ray – or potentially the Grand Sport X – since the hybridized model uses an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, a first for the Corvette nameplate. Chevrolet Will It Move the Needle?While it remains to be seen whether changing the name would make a difference sales-wise, Chevrolet offers the Corvette E-Ray with a starting price of $108,600, excluding destination fees. That pricing gives it the “value supercar” appeal, considering its European rivals – such as the Ferrari 296 GTB and McLaren Artura – come with far steeper price tags. Given that market demand hasn’t strongly favored expensive performance EVs — with Porsche even reportedly considering merging the Taycan and Panamera amid cooling interest in EVs — an all-electric Corvette isn’t expected anytime soon. For buyers who still want an electric vehicle under the Bowtie brand, however, Chevy offers options like the Equinox EV, which ranked as one of the best-selling EVs in the U.S. last year behind Tesla’s models. A more affordable option priced under $30,000 is also back on sale with the 2027 Bolt EV. Chevrolet View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Not All Launches Go SmoothlyFerrari’s all-new electric vehicle, the Luce, appears to be on track for launch, with the company teasing interior details and even releasing a YouTube series ahead of its debut. However, a potential hurdle has emerged after Mazda filed a trademark for “Luce” in Japan, which could force Ferrari to fight for the nameplate. The Prancing Horse chose the name Luce because it is the Italian word for “light,” a fitting choice for a fully electric model that won’t feature the loud V8 or V12 exhaust notes enthusiasts are accustomed to. Coincidentally, Mazda has long used the Luce nameplate, dating back to the 1960s when it served as the brand’s flagship luxury sedan. The model competed with rivals such as the Honda Legend and was sold in the U.S. as the 929. In addition, Mazda referenced the Luce when it unveiled the Vision Coupe concept in 2017. Bring a Trailer Mazda Steps InAccording to Australia’s CarExpert, Mazda filed the trademark weeks after Ferrari announced the Luce. Given Mazda’s naming conventions with models like the CX-5, the filing is unlikely to signal a new model, but rather an effort to protect the rights to the name. While how this trademark dispute will unfold remains to be seen, it is expected to affect only the Japanese market, meaning Ferrari could still use the Luce name elsewhere. If so, it wouldn’t be the first time a car has carried a different name in Japan. Even Mazda’s own two-seater sports car is called the Roadster in its home market, while it has long been known in the U.S. as the MX-5 Miata. A similar naming issue once affected Volvo, which had planned to use S4 before switching to S40 because Audi had already reserved the designation. SH Proshots/Autoblog If Luce Doesn’t See The LightSomething to watch, though, if Ferrari is forced to change the name, is what the replacement would be. Luce feels perfectly tailored to the model’s concept, much like the 12Cilindri, which literally takes its name from the F140 V12’s 12 cylinders. A literal alternative could be Elettrica, derived from electricity, a name the automaker previously used during the development phase. What we know for now is that Ferrari is set to unveil the Luce in May 2026, with an expected output of more than 1,000 horsepower from a quad-motor powertrain. That would place it in the same performance territory as EVs like the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT. Ferrari/YouTube View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Two Faces of the A110A report from Autocar states that Alpine will introduce an internal combustion variant of the A110 alongside its all-electric successor, mirroring Porsche’s playbook — the German brand being Alpine’s key rival. What’s interesting is that Alpine CEO Philippe Krief is already making bold claims about the upcoming model, saying it will be “the first true EV sports car” and will outperform the best combustion rivals today. Aside from rivalry in the sports car segment, this development may also be relevant to the U.S., as Alpine plans to debut stateside by 2027. However, while the A110 may be its most popular model, it likely won’t make its way to the U.S., with the French automaker instead focusing on crossovers and SUVs to target demand for larger vehicles. Alpine Alpine’s New Technical BackboneThe next-generation A110 will be underpinned by the new Alpine Performance Platform (APP), the same architecture used in the rally-inspired Renault 5 Turbo 3E. The platform is also designed to accommodate a gasoline variant, giving Alpine a strategy similar to Porsche’s with the 718 Cayman and Boxster — especially after recent reports suggested that the all-electric version of Porsche’s sports car has not been scrapped after all. However, it remains unclear whether Porsche’s EV platform could eventually be reworked to accommodate a combustion powertrain. Horsepower figures have yet to be disclosed, though the report states that the A110 EV will use a dual-motor powertrain driving the rear wheels, a formula typical of traditional sports cars. It will also feature a 40:60 front-to-rear weight distribution, giving it tail-happy dynamics. Alpine Engineering the Next A110Other features include an aluminium structure, an 800-volt architecture, a full aluminium suspension, torque vectoring, a “Formula 1-inspired driving position,” and a new Alpine Dynamic Model ECU that integrates systems ranging from battery management to active aerodynamics. Alpine is expected to debut the new third-generation model later this year. It will be interesting to see how these come together, especially as electric sports cars such as the MG Cyberster have yet to make a meaningful impact on the market. That could partly be explained by the fact that the segment still has a limited pool of models, with the A110 and — if the reports prove accurate — the 718 Cayman EV likely to spark greater interest. Another question is whether Alpine can sustain its sales momentum after surpassing 10,000 annual sales for the first time in its history in 2025. Alpine View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Subaru fans have spent years waiting for the legendary STI badge to make a proper comeback. While concepts like the STI S210 Prototype and wannabe trims such as the WRX STI Sport♯ have appeared in recent years, the current VB-generation WRX still hasn’t received a true STI variant. Adding to the growing list of “almost” performance specials is a new limited edition from Australia called the Subaru WRX Club Spec Evo. A Cult WRX Nameplate Returns Collecting Cars The Club Spec name has been part of WRX history in Australia since the early 2000s. These models typically arrive toward the end of a WRX's lifespan and focus mostly on aesthetic upgrades. Subaru Australia revived the badge to celebrate a milestone of 60,000 WRX sales in the country. The new Club Spec Evo is based on the tS Spec B – similar to the US-spec WRX tS – and will be limited to just 75 units nationwide. The most obvious highlight is the color. Finished in Sunrise Yellow, the car stands out even among the bold styling of the current WRX. And because it's based on the tS Spec B, it benefits from 19-inch wheels (finished in matte black), gold Brembo brake calipers, drilled rotors, and a large rear wing. On the inside, things are much more subtle. Perforated Ultrasuede seats have a yellow undertone, while matching stitching appears across the dashboard, steering wheel, and door panels. Each example also receives an individually numbered interior badge, emphasizing its limited production run. big-winged Manual-Only and Familiar Hardware Subaru As previously mentioned, the Club Spec Evo models have mostly cosmetic changes. Therefore, under the hood, it keeps the same mechanical setup found in the tS Spec B. That means a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine producing 202 kW (271 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. Power is still sent to all four wheels through Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, and fortunately, Subaru only offers its limited-edition yellow WRDX with a six-speed manual transmission – no CVTs in sight. And since it's based on the tS Spec B, it already comes with adaptive dampers, Brembo brakes, Recaro seats, and a limited-slip differential. Like previous Club Spec models, the upgrades are mostly cosmetic. Under the hood sits the same 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine found in the tS Spec B, producing 202 kW (271 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels through Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission – no CVT in sight. The tS Spec B foundation also means the Club Spec Evo already benefits from performance-focused hardware like adaptive dampers, six-piston Brembo front brakes, and Recaro seats. Interestingly, Subaru Australia recently said the STI brand is not dead and that several performance-focused projects are underway. Until we have tangible proof that the STI division isn't extinct, we only have these knock-off STIs. A Special WRX Most Fans Won’t Even See With just 75 examples planned, the WRX Club Spec Evo will be more than five times rarer than an Impreza 22B, and most of them are probably already spoken for. That is, if they can stomach its price tag. Pricing starts at 63,190 AUD ($44,405), a noticeable jump over the standard WRX, which begins at 48,890 AUD ($34,353). And if rumors about the next-generation WRX going fully electric turn out to be true, this bright yellow special may end up being one of the last old-school turbo boxer specials of its kind. View the full article

For years, Lamborghini owners have been walking straight out of dealerships and into aftermarket shops, spending serious money to make their cars louder, crackle and pop (and bang) on the overrun. And while Lamborghini has offered Race and Akrapovič exhaust systems for previous models, the brand has now developed its own range of titanium exhaust systems for the now-discontinued Huracán and Urus. Sold through official dealers, it's designed to Lamborghini's exacting specifications, both technical and aural. With this, the factory has essentially admitted what the modification scene already knew — the stock exhaust was leaving quite a bit on the table. Lamborghini View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Finally, Titanium Exhausts With a WarrantyWorking with Slovenian exhaust specialists Akrapovič, and sold under its Lamborghini Accessori Originali label, it's a wonder that exhausts for the hybridized Temerario and Revuelto aren't part of the offerings yet. The two brands have worked on exhaust systems before, but this is the first factory-titanium exhaust option available for the Huracán and Urus. Good news for owners, since they’re the only titanium systems that keep the warranty intact. Akrapovič has decades of experience building in lightweight exotic materials and understands how to extract character from an engine without turning it into a liability. Lamborghini gets to put its name on the result and sell it through its official dealer network, keeping the whole thing within a controlled environment. What It Might Actually Sound Like — and Why That MattersNo sound clip has surfaced yet, and that absence is interesting in itself. The safe assumption is that this will not be a replication of what aftermarket shops are doing. Most of those systems are genuinely antisocial at street speeds, the kind of loud that draws noise complaints. A factory system almost certainly threads a different needle, probably offering a meaningful step up over the stock note without crossing into territory that would embarrass the brand or its owners on public roads. Think less ear-splitting shriek, more full-throated wail. If Lamborghini has done this right, its star motors should finally sound the way they always looked like they should. Lamborghini View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Strong Start, Then a HiccupThe all-new 2027 Kia Telluride has already made meaningful contributions to the brand, with the model setting a new all-time monthly U.S. sales record of 13,198 units last month, just a few hundred units behind the top-selling Sportage. Yet some examples may already be facing issues after Kia recalled 13,499 Telluride units — along with 1,371 2026MY K4 Hatchback units — over a seatbelt anchor buckle problem. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that, under recall number 26V135, the affected vehicles may be equipped with a center seatbelt anchor buckle that may not latch properly due to a supplier manufacturing error. The defect could increase the risk of injury in a crash because the seatbelt may not properly restrain the occupant. K Buckle TroubleThe defective component may be found in the third row of the 2027 Telluride — now in its second generation and assembled at Kia’s West Point, Georgia plant for the U.S. market. While the second row can be configured with captain’s chairs, the Telluride remains a three-row crossover SUV, competing with models like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Explorer. Meanwhile, the K4 has the affected seatbelt anchor in the rear seats. Passengers may notice the defect if they experience difficulty buckling the seatbelt. According to the safety campaign, affected owners will be instructed to bring their vehicles to a Kia dealership for inspection. If necessary, the anchor buckle assembly will be replaced as part of the remedy. The Korean marque will also reimburse owners who may have paid out of pocket to address the problem. Gabriel Ionica What Owners Need to KnowKia will begin notifying owners about the recall on May 5, 2026. That comes a few weeks after owners of the previous-gen Telluride are set to be notified of a separate recall affecting more than 85,000 2025MY units over loose front seatbacks. Despite the early issue affecting some 2027 model-year Tellurides, a recall does not automatically signal widespread reliability problems. In many cases, safety campaigns are issued as a precaution or are tied to components supplied by third-party vendors rather than a fundamental vehicle design flaw. For reference, the all-new Telluride starts at $39,190, excluding destination fees, while the hybrid variant – equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain producing 329 horsepower – begins at $46,490. Kia View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

After growing nearly eightfold between 2019 and 2023, demand for battery-electric vehicles flattened out last year, then took a dive off a cliff after federal tax credits phased out at the end of September. That’s sent an array of automakers scrambling to rethink their EV programs and, by Autoblog’s count, at least 18 brands have now decided to drop existing models, scrap upcoming plans or, at the least, stretch their launches out, hoping to see demand rebound. Honda became the latest to join the exodus on Thursday, CEO Toshihiro Mibe telling reporters in Tokyo that the automaker needed to ‘stop the bleeding,” as it prepared to report losses that could reach more than $15 billion for the fiscal year. While it will move ahead with the launch of the new 0 Series Saloon and SUV models in some parts of the world, they now won’t come to the U.S., nor will the Acura RSX. Who else is on the list? Here’s the latest list we could pull together…but don’t be surprised if some other brands join the club in the near future. Acura Acura Honda Motor Co.’s upscale marque didn’t have much luck with its first all-electric model, the ZDX, announcing an end to production even before federal tax credits expired last September. Now, the brand is walking away entirely from the EV segment, scrapping plans to add the new Acura RSX which was to be built at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio. Chevrolet General Motors Of all manufacturers, General Motors has actually done better than most in the U.S. with an assortment of mainstream and upscale EVs. Still, it abandoned the once-promising BrightDrop commercial vehicle division, rolling it into Chevy. Now, however, the BrightDrop electric vans are being dropped. As for the reborn Chevrolet Bolt, the bowtie brand says it will only be kept in production for 18 months. Related: How Chevrolet Built America’s Cheapest EV Without Cutting Corners Dodge Dodge The Stellantis muscle car division shocked the market when it said it would replace its Charger and Challenger nameplates with a single, all-electric package, the Charger Daytona. Dodge quietly revised plans, developing new gas packages, Charger sans “Daytona.” With sales lagging, the base all-electric R/T package is delayed and the ultra-high-performance Daytona Banshee has apparently been abandoned. Related: I Drove the 2026 Dodge Charger R/T: An Honest First-Drive Review of Dodge’s Twin-Turbo Muscle Sedan Ford David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images Few automakers have done a more costly about-face, Ford writing off nearly $20 billion as converted what was to be a massive EV manufacturing complex near Memphis into a conventional truck plant. It’s scrapped plans for a 3-row SUV, ended production of the F-150 Lightning in December and instead of another EV, it’ll be replaced by a range-extender package. Still, Ford is moving ahead with its Universal EV program set to debut with an “affordable,” Maverick-sized pickup in 2027. Genesis Genesis Hyundai’s luxury brand is a mixed bag and appears to be taking the pulse of the market before making hard decisions. It’s discontinued the Electrified GV80 – but says it could come back. The smaller GV60 remains in the line-up and actually will offer a new variant later this year when Genesis puts it first high-performance package into production, the all-electric GV60 Magma. Honda Honda One of the pioneers of electrification, Honda is a true believer when it comes to hybrids, but it’s rapidly backing away from what seemed a promising commitment to EVs. Beyond culling the Acura ZDX and RSX the mainstream Honda brand scrapped plans to introduce the new 0 Series Saloon and SUV models in the U.S. market. Whether it will retain the Prologue is uncertain considering year-over-year demand fell 86% during the final quarter of 2025. Hyundai Hyundai The Korean carmaker has promised to invest billions into its own electrification program. But it’s now in retreat, at least when it comes to the U.S. market. It’s dropping the Kona Electric, its first long-range EV, and the Ioniq 6 sedan – except for a limited number of high-performance 6 N variants. Hyundai also won’t be bringing over some other EVs, like the little Inster. But it’s keeping Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 in the line-up. Infiniti Nissan Parent Nissan Motor Corp. may have been an early proponent of EVs, but it has repeatedly delayed plans to add an all-electric model to the upscale Infiniti brand. Yet, again. An all-electric sedan codenamed LZ1F and a crossover codenamed PZ1J have been cancelled. Both were set for production at the Nissan plant in Canton, Mississippi Kia Kia Hyundai sibling Kia has been another big proponent for electrification and is rolling out a number of new models in Kia, China, Europe and other parts of the world. The line-up is slimmer in the U.S., with the original EV6 and newer EV9. The high-performance EV6 GT has been indefinitely delayed. But Kia apparently still sees new opportunities in the affordable EV segment and will debut the production EV3 at this month’s New York Auto Show. Lamborghini Lamborghini There’s a big debate among exotic brands, Ferrari still convinced there’s a market for high-performance EVs. Lamborghini is far more pessimistic, CEO Stephan Winkelmann telling the London Times they don’t deliver the necessary “emotional connection.” As a result, the Italian automaker has scrapped all-electric versions of the Lanzador and Urus. Land Rover SH Proshots/Autoblog Britain’s Jaguar will be out of production for nearly a year, preparing to relaunch as an all-electric brand. It’s sibling marque, Land Rover, isn’t going quite so far but still is betting on battery power. It’s developing an assortment of EVs, based on its familiar Defender and Range Rover lines. That said, it delayed last year’s planned debut of the Range Rover EV, the exclusive SUV still on the boards for a launch in 2026. Maserati The top-line Stellantis brand will continue offering three EVs: the GranCabrio, GranTurismo and Grecale. But some question whether it might pair back that line-up if sales don’t improve. Weak demand is blamed for the decision to scrap a fourth all-electric model, the MC20 Folgore. Nissan Nissan Japan’s second-largest automaker stole a march on competitors like Toyota by launching the world’s first mainstream EV, the Leaf, in 2011. But it was slow to catch up as competitors like GM, Tesla and VW brought out more modern alternatives. It finally introduced a third-generation Leaf last year but has put on indefinite hold the base S package. Meanwhile, Nissan pulled the bigger Ariya out of production for 2026 – though it could return next year. Also dead: a sedan and a CUV planned for production in the U.S. Related: 2026 Nissan LEAF First Drive Review: A Major Leap Forward For The Iconic EV Polestar Polestar Sweden’s Polestar brand continues to invest in the EV market announcing last month plans to add four more models. But its first first all-electric package, the Polestar 2, currently is unavailable in U.S. because of the hefty tariffs on Chinese-made EVs. There’s been speculation about what might happen with some of the new lines Polestar is developing if those tariffs aren’t lifted or production moved to the States.. Porsche Among German brands, Porsche has been determined to roll out EV alternatives to its traditional line-up – even replacing some models, like Boxster and Cayman, with EVs. But an all-electric flagship SUV has officially been delayed -- and is widely believed to be cancelled – or converted to some type of hybrid package. Despite some reports, Boxster and Cayman EVs appear to have survived, however. Ram Ram Just a few years ago, seemingly everyone wanted to get into the full-size EV pickup market. Now, however, the revolving door has been spinning at a blinding rate. Several new players, like Lordstown and Canoo are out of business. Ford, meanwhile, ended Lightning production in December. Ram killed the all-electric Ram 1500 REV before production began – but that name now will be used for the range-extended pickup previously referred to as Ramcharger. Tesla Its stock price does not reflect the reality that Tesla sales fell in 2025 for the second consecutive year. With demand all but dried up, it’s now dropped its first two volume nameplates, the Model S and X, ostensibly to make room to build Optimus Prime robots at its Fremont, California, plant. The future of the Cybertruck is uncertain, and Tesla is sending mixed signals about an “affordable” EV and retail CyberCab models. Volkswagen Volkswagen Only a few years ago, the Volkswagen Group was making the biggest commitment to EVs in the industry. It’s still got aggressive growth plans but is sharply paring expectations – and models – in the U.S. The ID.7 sedan has been cancelled for the U.S. The ID.Buzz microbus is out of production for at least the 2026 model year, VW promising to bring it back with more affordable trim options. As for the original ID.4, the name is being dropped but the crossover will be rebadged ID.Tiguan. View the full article

Purchasing a satisfying car is one thing, but a bad dealer experience can quickly turn owners off a specific brand. To see which automakers deliver the best dealer service, the results of the JD Power 2026 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study have just been released. Overall dealer satisfaction increased in this year’s study, which is based on responses from 51,228 verified registered owners and lessees of vehicles between 1 to 3 years of age. Porsche and Mini topped the premium and mass-market segments, respectively, while all three brands with the lowest scores (Chrysler, Ram, and Maserati) were from the Stellantis stable. In the popular truck segment, Ram finished far behind all rivals. 2026 CSI Study: Main Insights Getty Images Overall customer satisfaction with auto dealer service increased by three points on a 1,000-point scale. The premium segment was up by eight points to 886, while the mass market segment increased by three points to 868. A high CSI score increases the chances of customers remaining loyal to the same brand; when the satisfaction score is 950 points or higher, 88% of premium customers say they’ll return to the same dealer. Here are a few other insights from this year’s study: Mass-market customers wait an average of 1.61 hours for maintenance work at dealers; premium customers wait 2.46 hours64% of customers want photo/video evidence of work being done, but only 26% of mass-market customers are getting itOnly 26% of customers experience 9 or 10 of the top CSI Key Performance IndicatorsAlthough overall satisfaction increased, dealers face intense competition from aftermarket providers that can often get the same job done in less time. For instance, 62% of aftermarket service visits take under an hour, versus 1.61/2.46 hours for mass-market/premium customers visiting dealers. Getty Images Customers coming from direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands like Tesla and Rivian are typically less satisfied with conventional dealers, as they are accustomed to DTC conveniences like mobile services and valets. “Dealers can more readily add value, for example, by returning the vehicle cleaner than when it arrived and completing a thorough multi-point inspection with digital documentation. CSI results show those efforts yield higher satisfaction and, in turn, boost retention,” said Stewart Stropp, vice president of customer success at JD Power. “Another opportunity is to more consistently deliver on top key performance indicators (KPIs) like keeping customers informed of service status and explaining the work performed. These elements, among others, meaningfully lift satisfaction.” Related: Dealers Take Another Hit in the Direct-to-Consumer Sales Fight CSI Study Brand Rankings Porsche For the second consecutive year, Porsche ranked number 1 among premium brands, this time with a score of 915. Porsche was closely followed by Infiniti (912) and Lexus (900). For mass-market brands, Mini topped the rankings with 887 points, barely ahead of Subaru (886) and Buick (882). Ford, which has worked hard to improve vehicle quality in recent months, will also be happy with its dealer satisfaction score of 875. Premium brand ratings: JD Power 2026 U.S. Customer Service Index (CSI) Study JD Power View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article On the other end of the spectrum, Stellantis has significant work to do. It’s responsible for the three brands with the lowest scores in the study, including Maserati (790), Chrysler (841), and Ram (824). Stellantis recently appointed 2,000 engineers in a major effort to improve vehicle quality, and the next step for the company should be to improve the dealership experience. JD Power In the truck segment, Ram is way behind all other brands on 824, with Ford and Toyota leading the pack. This is significant considering the high number of trucks sold in the U.S., with Ford selling almost 830,000 F-Series models alone last year. Related: 3 Surprises From J.D. Power’s New Initial Quality Survey What It Means RAM Car brand loyalty dropped below 50% last year as customers chased better deals, amid rapidly rising vehicle prices. This emphasizes the need for a positive dealership experience to keep customers happy and retain their business. A poor service visit can quickly send customers to alternative repair shops or, even worse, another car brand. One fascinating insight is the challenge traditional dealers face in keeping customers satisfied when they come from direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands. If dealers can modernize and incorporate aspects of the DTC model in their operations—such as app-based bookings or digital progress updates—they could dramatically increase customer satisfaction. This could become especially important as cars become more software-focused and customers grow increasingly accustomed to digital services. View the full article

Buying Recalled Cars Was the Business ModelA Pittsburgh used-car dealer just landed a huge win against Hyundai Motor America. After years of fighting over recalled vehicles, a Pennsylvania judge has ordered Hyundai to pay almost $10 million. Knight Motors and its sister company, Doman Auto & Marine Sales, both run by the same owner in Pittsburgh, spent most of 2018 and early 2019 snapping up used Hyundai Sonata sedans at auction. In total, they bought 628 cars from the 2011 to 2014 model years, Automotive News reports. These weren’t just random Hyundai Sonatas – every car they bought was linked to Hyundai’s massive Theta II engine recall, which covered over 1.6 million Hyundai and Kia vehicles from several years. Rather than fixing the cars themselves, the dealerships followed the recall program to the letter. They brought the Sonatas to Hyundai dealers for engine replacements or buybacks, just like any regular owner would if their engine failed – except that this would be done in bulk. Hyundai Hyundai Decided Something Was OffAt first, everything went smoothly. Hyundai bought back the cars and paid out claims, eventually spending over $5 million on Sonatas from Knight Motors alone. But as the claims piled up, Hyundai started to get suspicious. Inside Hyundai, emails started calling out a group of dealers as the 'Frequent Buyback Club.' Knight Motors was one of about two dozen stores flagged for making repeat claims. In May 2019, Hyundai made a move that would backfire. The company denied every open claim from Knight Motors in one shot. Not long after, Hyundai sued the dealerships for fraud, claiming they had tampered with the cars to trigger engine replacements or buybacks. Hyundai The Inspections Told a Different StoryBut Hyundai’s fraud claims hit a wall almost immediately. Over the next year, Hyundai dealers inspected hundreds of Knight Motors’ cars, taking photos and checking for any signs of tampering. According to court records, 16 different dealers looked them over. None found any evidence of foul play. Hyundai even brought in an outside appraisal firm for another round of inspections. The result was the same: no proof that the dealerships had messed with the cars to get recall repairs or buybacks. Judge Philip Ignelzi later noted that other used-car dealers were doing essentially the same thing: buying recalled Sonatas at auction and bringing them in through official recall channels. The judge described the practice as neither illegal nor fraudulent, calling it simply “American capitalism.” Hyundai The Case Fell Apart Over EvidenceThe real trouble for Hyundai came with how it handled the evidence. Judge Ignelzi ruled that Hyundai crushed hundreds of the recalled cars at the heart of the case. Those vehicles could have shown whether tampering occurred. On top of that, emails from a Hyundai case manager involved in the dispute were deleted. The judge called it “rampant spoliation” – the legal speak for destroying evidence. In his opinion, Ignelzi said this was one of the worst cases of discovery abuse he’d seen in 16 years on the bench. As a penalty, the judge ordered Hyundai to pay Knight Motors $9,784,075. That number covers almost seven years of storage fees for 163 recalled cars still sitting at the dealership – $25 per day for each vehicle. Hyundai says it disagrees with the ruling and has already appealed. For now, the court has put the payment on hold while the appeal plays out. This legal battle might not be over anytime soon. View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Volkswagen has started production of the new ID.Unyx 08 electric SUV in Hefei, eastern China, and while we lost count of how many China-only models VW is selling these days, this one is really important. That’s because the ID.Unyx 08 is Volkswagen’s first fully-connected, full-size battery electric SUV that features an 800-volt electrical architecture, as well as the first VW EV based on a third-party platform. Volkswagen China In this case, the ID.Unyx is based on Xpeng’s 800-volt, fast-charging EV platform as it was developed together with the Chinese EV maker as part of VW Group’s “In China, for China” strategy. Remarkably, the joint development of the new model took less than 24 months. That is a record for VW considering that the development of a new model used to take around 4 years and the new target set in effect since 2024 is 3 years. Besides the 800-volt ultra-fast charging tech, VW ID.Unyx 08 also features locally developed technologies, including L2 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) capabilities, continuous over-the-air (OTA) software updates, and connectivity features, including an AI assistant. The Screen-Heavy Interior Barely Has Any Buttons Volkswagen China Speaking of connectivity, VW also released the first photos of the ID.Unyx 08’s interior, and it’s a real tech fest. Two 14.96-inch screens with 2.4K resolution affixed to the dashboard—one in the center and one for the front passenger—dominate the cabin, while the driver gets a separate 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster. Physical buttons are in short supply, with the only visibile ones being on the steering wheel and door panels. The cabin also features two wireless charging pads above a lower storage area, an 18.73-sq ft dimming panoramic glass roof with 10 levels of opacity adjustment, and a 20-speaker sound system. Volkswagen China There's a 14-way power-adjustable front passenger seat—with a built-in electrical footrest that extends forward for a recliner-like position—while the driver’s seat is 10-way adjustable; the rear seats can also recline 10 degrees. Seeing as the ID.Unyx 08 measures almost 197 inches in length and has an ample wheelbase of over 119 inches, passenger room appears to be generous; despite that, the vehicle is a strict five-seater as VW does not offer a third-row option. One of 20 New NEVs VW China Will Launch in 2026 Volkwagen China Built by the Volkswagen Anhui joint venture between VW Group (75%) and China's JAC (25%), the ID.Unyx 08 offers both single-motor RWD and dual-motor AWD configurations, with a maximum power of 308 hp in the former and 496 hp in the latter. Power comes from CATL-supplied lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries with capacities of 82 kWh and 95 kWh, respectively. The longest-range version is rated at 454 miles in China’s CLTC test cycle. The VW ID.Unyx 08 will launch in the first half of this year as one of 20 new, locally developed New Energy Vehicle (NEV) models (that is all-electric and plug-in hybrid) debuting in China in 2026 alone. “On average, the Volkswagen Group is launching one new electric car every two weeks this year. That's ´China Speed,´” said Ralf Brandstätter, CEO of Volkswagen Group China. A second model born from the cooperation between Volkswagen and Xpeng, an electric sedan, will also launch later this year. Volkswagen View the full article

The new Dodge Charger keeps its muscle car status, but almost everything else has changed: the Hemi V8 is gone along with the Challenger name, the quickest versions are now electric, and every new Charger comes with standard all-wheel drive. Some feared this would spoil the image of Dodge’s large muscle car as a silly but entertaining, tail-happy muscle car, but the new Charger’s AWD system doesn’t spoil the fun. Dodge has now detailed all the different modes for the Charger’s AWD system, which the driver has more control over than the AWD fitted to the older Challenger. Related: Here’s How the 2026 Dodge Charger Lineup Breaks Down Now That Pricing Is Live Four Primary Drive Modes SIXPACK-powered 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack (two-door) Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article In the old rear-wheel-drive Challenger and Charger, you had to have your wits about you, especially in slippery conditions as the powerful muscle car battled for traction. The new one, though, can be configured to suit the conditions or the driver’s mood. By changing the driving mode, torque can be split between the front and rear axles as follows: Auto/Eco Mode (40% front/60% rear)Wet/Snow (50/50)Sport Mode (30/70)RWD/Line Lock (0/100)The last of these modes turns the Charger into a tail-happy hooligan, and overall, it’s a much more flexible setup than the outgoing model—the old Challenger GT could only send up to 38% torque to the front wheels when needed. A mechanical limited slip differential is standard, and SixPack-powered Chargers—those with the six-cylinder engine—have a multi-disc wet clutch transfer case. This adjusts the amount of torque being fed to each axle in milliseconds. In low-grip situations, the new Charger limits torque with earlier, softer shifts, and even the steering effort is lowered. If you go for the electric Daytona Scat Pack, you also get Drag and Custom modes. Stellantis As a reminder, SixPack R/T models have a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine producing 420 hp. The SixPack Scat Pack models use the same engine, but are tuned for 550 hp, while the fully electric Daytona Scat Pack makes 670 hp. “All-wheel-drive capability takes Dodge performance vehicles from three-season to all-season daily drivers,” said Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO. “These systems give Dodge the opportunity to deliver Dodge attitude to customers across the entire country.” Related: Do You Really Need AWD In Your Next Vehicle? What It Means Stellantis The previous Challenger became the only two-door muscle car in its segment to boast the option of AWD, making it a more usable option than its Mustang and Camaro rivals. Ford once intended to produce a new Mustang with AWD, but those plans were scrapped. The Camaro lineup has been retired completely, too. It may not have the angry roar of the old V8, but the new AWD Charger is the most versatile and capable American muscle car you can buy right now, regardless of the season or conditions. View the full article

Porsche is betting on gas engines and aggressive cost cuts to pull itself out of one of the worst financial periods in its modern history. Porsche booked $4.5 billion in extraordinary expenses in 2025, including a $3.5 billion writedown for its EV strategy pivot. Its operating profit collapsed 98%, margins shrank to 0.3%, and shares have fallen by more than half since 2022. New CEO Michael Leiters, who led McLaren before taking the job, has a clear diagnosis: the company moved too fast toward electric, and now it needs to move back. Porsche View the 1 images of this gallery on the original article The EV Bets That Didn't Pay OffSeveral key electric decisions proved badly timed. Taycan sales fell 49% in 2024, undercut by slowing EV demand and Chinese manufacturers offering high-performance electric sedans at a fraction of the price. The bigger miscalculation involved the Macan, Porsche's global best-seller for years. The company had planned to replace the combustion-powered Macan entirely with an electric version, walking away from one of its most reliable revenue streams just as EV adoption was stalling in key markets. Former CEO Oliver Blume later acknowledged the error plainly: "We were wrong." A petrol-powered Macan replacement is now in development, though it won't arrive until at least 2028, leaving a meaningful gap in the lineup in the meantime. Porsche The Road Back Runs on GasLooking back at Porsche’s history, it isn’t the first time the company has faced an existential crisis. In the early 2000s, the company was struggling until it built the Cayenne. It was a gamble that seemed counterintuitive for a sports-car maker, but the sporty-driving SUV became its best-selling model almost overnight. Leiters is betting a similar reset is possible now. Porsche Leiters, who led McLaren before taking the Porsche job, is rebuilding around what the brand's customers have consistently shown they want. The 911 was one of the few bright spots in 2025, demand holding firm while the rest of the lineup faltered. Combustion engines and plug-in hybrids will remain in Porsche's lineup well into the 2030s. The more interesting story is what comes next. Engineers are developing new combustion derivatives on electrified platforms, blending hybrid efficiency with traditional Porsche performance. The company is also deepening its investment in eFuels — synthetic fuels produced from renewable energy — which could allow gas engines to run with substantially lower lifecycle emissions without sacrificing the driving experience the brand is built on. Given what saved Porsche once before, that might be exactly the right move. View the full article

Limited and Calligraphy Trims Pulled from SaleThe 2026 Hyundai Palisade comes in a range of trims for families after a three-row SUV. But if you’re in the market for one today, you might want to stay away from the two top-spec options. Hyundai just told dealers in the US and Canada to stop selling the 2026 Palisade Limited and Calligraphy trims. The reason? A safety problem with the power seats in the second and third rows. The issue is with the power-folding system for the rear seats. Sometimes, it doesn’t detect when someone or something is in the way as the seats move. This affects both the power-fold function and the one-touch tilt-and-slide feature for getting into the third row. Hyundai Remedy Is Still in DevelopmentAccording to Hyundai, this latest move follows a tragic incident involving a Palisade in which a young child lost her life. The company said the situation is still under investigation and that full details of the event are not yet known. Hyundai extended its condolences to the child’s family while noting that safety remains its top priority. Hyundai is getting ready to file a recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but there’s no official recall notice yet. The numbers are big: about 68,500 of the 2026 Palisades are affected, with over 60,000 in the US and nearly 8,000 in Canada. Moreover, Hyundai is still working on a permanent fix. When it’s ready, dealers will handle the recall repair for free. In the meantime, Hyundai plans to roll out an over-the-air (OTA) software update by the end of March. It’s not the final fix, but it should help the system better spot people or objects during rear seat movement and add extra safety checks. Hyundai What Current Owners Should DoHyundai is already reaching out to Palisade owners by email, phone, and through dealers. Until there’s a permanent fix, Hyundai says to be extra careful with the power seat controls. Double-check that no one, especially kids, is in the way before moving the seats. Hyundai also suggests skipping the seatback button when using the second-row tilt-and-slide, especially if people are getting in or out. If you’d rather not use your Palisade until it’s fixed, dealers may be able to set you up with a rental. This isn’t the first time the Palisade has faced trouble. The previous generation (2020 to 2025) was recalled for airbag problems, which led to a lawsuit and affected over half a million SUVs. Hyundai View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

An Engineering CompanyHonda's beginnings were in true engineering; their early days were filled with innovation that ultimately led them to become one of the world's biggest and most respected automotive manufacturers. It has gone on to be respected not just as an innovator on the road, but also on the racetrack, in aeroplanes, and even in robotics. Needless to say, Honda doesn't shy away from pushing the envelope of innovation and technology. More recently, they've been going deep into 3D printing, not just the normal "out of your garage" type, but the more difficult one using metals. Honda Additive Metal Technology3D printing has become all the rage now; people can design and build almost anything without spending too much. Usually, this manufacturing process uses readily available materials such as plastics and resins, but major manufacturing companies have been investing in 3D metal printing. Fortunately, select members of the Japanese media were given the opportunity to visit Honda's Wako Research Center to learn more about metal 3D printing. Interestingly, Honda has been at it for almost 13 years now. – with the ultimate goal of using what it learns to help in the production of mass-produced vehicles. One of the newer advancements in metal 3D printing is called Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), a mainstream process that involves laying a very fine layer of metal powder, approximately 0.01mm to 0.05 mm thick. That layer is continuously built on to create the desired shape and part they want. While novel and advanced, LPBF presents some challenges during production. As explained by Chief Engineer Kazuzo Ishimoto, the metal melted by the laser turns into black vapor that affects the laser's irradiation. Another issue is that, in some cases, the metal that flies off during melting is larger than the original powder, which affects the quality of the final product. Uses of Additive Metal TechnologyThough some issues arise during metal 3D printing, Honda continues to persevere with the technology and has already used it to help build and succeed in several areas. Chief among these is the F1 racing program. Since 2020, it has been using 3D-printed Iron for the engine's pistons, while the turbo housing uses printed inconel as a heat shield. In the world of sports, they were able to make a racing wheelchair optimized for para-athletes. The unique racing wheelchair features a 3D printed aluminum lightweight handlebars. Eventually, a heritage parts program will also use this technology, starting off with the recreation of parts for the first-generation Honda NSX. View the full article

“There is no innocent explanation for secretly accessing, reviewing, and selectively deleting an employer's confidential files after your employment has ended and you are negotiating with a direct competitor. Gabehart's belief that he was acting in secret is itself powerful evidence of wrongful intent.” This is part of the basis in which Joe Gibbs Racing believes the Western District of ...Keep readingView the full article

Ford Festiva: A Brief HistoryFor anyone who remembers the Ford Festiva, you either have bad knees, have reading glasses, or both. It's a bit of a forgotten car in Ford's back catalog, and it served as the company's entry-level hatchback in various markets, including North America. The Festiva was sold in the U.S from mid-1986 to 1993. The Festiva was actually developed by Mazda and originally intended for the Japanese market. Kia was then licensed to build it, naming it the Pride, and it was produced from 1987 to 2003. It was, by all means, an economy car and as basic as they came. As far as cheap runabouts go, it did the minimum of bringing people from point A to B. America only got the hatchback, but there were also sedan and wagon variations. A Small Car Made SmallerSubcompact cars have nothing on the Festiva in terms of dimensions. It was just 136.8 inches long, 63.2 inches wide, and 57.5 inches tall – a lot smaller than the defunct Mitsubishi Mirage. They really don't make subcompact cars as they used to anymore. Still, there are those who think it was a tad too big, such as a certain fabricator who did something about it. Tyler Fever is the design lead at Whistlindiesel, and if you've seen some of the cars built there, chances are Fever was responsible for them. His latest creation is a Festiva that's been trimmed down to about half of its original width, giving it a very distinct appearance. Mind you, its length is the same as the standard car, giving it the best impression of a flounder and ramping up the comedy factor. Tyler Fever/Instagram Avoid CornersYou can probably tell that it won't be made for enthusiastic driving. Truth be told, we're already amused that it can take on a corner. Never mind that it handles it more gently than a first-time parent with a newborn, but it can turn nonetheless. We wouldn't dare take that car out on a windy day, though. We're genuinely curious as to what's under the hood, though. As tiny as the Festiva's 1.3-liter engine was, it looks impossible to fit given its, er, diet. It does sound like it's powered by a small electric motor, but there's also a photo of it getting fueled up. Either way, we reckon it won't have much horsepower for the sake of some directional stability. Still, it looks like it's a hoot to drive. If your idea of fun is not knowing if you'll fall over on your sides at the slightest suggestion of a corner, then this will be an absolute blast behind the wheel. Tyler Fever/Instagram View the full article

Stellantis’ Detour to ElectrificationEarlier this year, Stellantis quietly dropped several plug-in hybrids from its North American lineup, including Jeep’s 4xe models and the Chrysler Pacifica plug-in. The decision surprised some, but Stellantis called it a strategic shift. Rather than sticking with plug-in hybrids, the company plans to bring back a mix of self-charging hybrids and extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) instead. The first sign of that new direction is the all-new Jeep Cherokee hybrid, a returning nameplate to the Seven-Slot Grille lineup. But here’s the twist that wasn’t announced last year: the Cherokee’s hybrid system might not be entirely developed in-house. Stellantis The Toyota Connection Behind the ScenesA CNBC report notes that the Cherokee hybrid uses a powertrain from BluE Nexus, a joint venture between Japanese companies Aisin and Denso launched in 2019. BluE Nexus specializes in electrified powertrains, especially its e-Axle – a compact unit that packs an electric motor, inverter, and gears into a single package. You’ll already find BluE Nexus tech in several Toyota vehicles. The e-Axle is found in the Toyota Mirai fuel-cell car, the Lexus UX, the C-HR, and even the Toyota bZ/Solterra electric crossovers. For the Cherokee, the setup reportedly includes Toyota Hybrid System II hardware. That means it uses the same two-motor electric CVT you’ll find in many Toyota hybrids. The Toyota Connection Behind the ScenesIf you’re not familiar with the supplier world, both Aisin and Denso are Toyota-owned. Toyota also owns about 10 percent of BluE Nexus. So, the Cherokee’s hybrid system has Toyota DNA running through it. Stellantis has not formally announced that BluE Nexus components are used in the new Cherokee. However, the CNBC report claims that multiple anonymous sources within the companies involved confirmed the partnership. It’s normal for automakers to use supplier-developed systems – transmissions, electronics, and more often come from outside partners. What stands out here is that Jeep is tapping into a hybrid setup that’s closely tied to a rival’s technology. Stellantis Hybrids Now, Extended-Range EVs NextStellantis is also working on extended-range electric vehicles. These run mainly on electric motors, but once the battery runs low, a gasoline engine kicks in as a generator. The first of these will be the upcoming Jeep Grand Wagoneer EREV. Unlike the Cherokee, this one leans on tech from Bosch, the world’s biggest automotive supplier. Stellantis plans to expand the system further, including its use in future Rampickup trucks. One upcoming Ram extended-range hybrid is expected to deliver up to 690 miles of total range when combining battery power and gasoline. Stellantis View the full article

Two years after the Lucid Air electric sedan received support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the same update is underway for the EV maker’s Gravity SUV. For years, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integrations have made moving from one vehicle to the next much simpler for drivers, especially since different vehicles have vastly different native infotainment systems. Lucid UX 3.5, the latest software version for the Gravity, now includes these smartphone-mirroring functions in North America. Lucid UX 3.5 Arrives This Week Lucid The new software update began rolling out to Lucid owners this week, on March 12. A complimentary over-the-air update, UX 3.5 won't cost owners anything. "Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are two of the most sought-after features by our customers," said Emad Dlala, SVP of Engineering and Software at Lucid. "We are now providing a seamless connection between mobile devices and the Lucid Gravity. We're excited to introduce these features to Lucid Gravity, which now offers even greater comfort and convenience for owners." Gabriel Ionica Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can be connected wirelessly or via USB in the Gravity. Visible on the Clearview Cockpit display, owners will now be able to mirror their smartphone devices, providing easy access to features like music apps, messaging, smartphone maps, and other media. The new update gives Lucid an edge over Tesla, which still doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto in its vehicles. Tesla announced plans last year to integrate Apple CarPlay, but we’re almost through the first quarter of 2026 and it hasn’t happened yet. Related: Why Tesla Still Doesn’t Offer Apple CarPlay in 2026 Why Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Integration is So Hard Apple As cars become more reliant on software, a tug-of-war has developed between automakers and Big Tech over who controls the digital ecosystem in modern vehicles. Many automakers are trying to find a balance between the two, which is why Apple’s more comprehensive CarPlay Ultra has been widely rejected by car manufacturers. For Lucid specifically, the delayed integration of CarPlay and Android Auto was likely linked to the automaker struggling with persistent software issues. Many Lucid fans have experienced glitchy infotainment systems, whereby updates couldn’t be installed or audio would be cut out. In the Air sedan, CarPlay sometimes switched devices on its own. Introducing new smartphone integrations before the company had stabilized its software may only have led to an even poorer user experience. It’s too early to tell if Lucid has ironed out these kinks with UX 3.5, but the company is well aware of the issues it has had, going so far as to replace much of its software leadership team recently. With cheaper midsize Lucid EVs coming and expected to sell in much higher volumes than the Air and Gravity, it’s essential for the EV maker to fix tech-related glitches before then. View the full article

In many ways, the Toyota GR Yaris represents a return to the golden age of Japanese performance cars, and one of those ways is a programme of continuous tweaks and improvements throughout the car’s life. Think of how Skyline GT-Rs would evolve quickly from original to V-Spec to V-Spec II, and you get the idea. In that time-honored tradition, Toyota has rolled out a number of small but meaningful improvements for the 2026 model year GR Yaris which it calls the Type 26. This, it turns out, was the mystery model Toyota was teasing a few days ago. Unfortunately, that whole ‘golden age of the Japanese performance car’ thing is also replicated in the GR Yaris not being available in North America, with these changes currently confined to the Japanese market. Reinventing the Wheel Toyota Debuting on the Type 26 GR Yaris is a brand new design of steering wheel, and though it looks like a scattergun approach to covering it in switches and buttons, there’s a reason behind it. It’s in response to feedback that the controls on the previous, more conventional steering wheel were too easy to accidentally operate during hard cornering. To solve it, Toyota let its racing drivers loose with a series of prototype steering wheels, which has resulted in this funky new look, designed to offer a comfortable grip for drivers without risking them accidentally cranking the stereo volume up to max while negotiating a set of switchbacks. The controls themselves have been repositioned to be easily operable on the fly. Marginal Gains Toyota Elsewhere, Toyota has tweaked the GR Yaris’ electric power steering setup to make it work more smoothly with rally or high-performance circuit tires, and under high-load cornering. We’ll let Toyota’s press release do the talking: “optimized torsion-bar rigidity within the torque sensor and modified control software have expanded the steering torque detection range, enabling optimal assistance even when cornering under extremely high loads.” This is seriously nerdy stuff, people. Speaking of more aggressive tires, the range-topping RZ High Performance version of the GR Yaris now comes shod in extra-grippy Bridgestone Potenza Race rubber as standard, with the aim of improving high-speed control. More of the Same Toyota That’s about it for changes to the Type 26, aside from a slight reshuffling of options packages. We had a hunch that Toyota’s shadowy teaser might have been pointing to something major like the debut of the long-awaited G20E four-cylinder turbo engine, but the all-wheel drive GR Yaris rumbles on with the same 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder it’s had since launch, and that’s fitted to the GR Corolla. It can still be optioned with the Aero Performance Package launched last year, too. As before, it makes 300 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, and can be paired with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. Toyota hasn’t provided any performance figures, but there’s no reason to expect any changes to the circa 5.2-second 0-60 mph run or the 143 mph top speed. What has been provided is pricing, with the car kicking off at ¥3,617,000 – around $22,700 – and the one you want, the bells-and-whistles RZ High Performance with the Aero Performance Package, costing ¥5,532,000 – about $34,700. Orders open in Japan on April 6, but as for North America? It’ll keep having to make do with the GR Corolla which, in fairness, is a pretty good consolation prize. View the full article

This week, NASCAR notified crew chiefs about the Sanctioning Body's updated rules for cleaning pit boxes during the race weekend. Previously, teams would use all manner of tactics and chemicals to ensure as much grip as possible in their assigned stall, looking for any possible advantage while aiming to prevent cars from sliding through their boxes. But as of March 12th, cleaning of pit box ...Keep readingView the full article

Shelby American is known for its broad range of souped-up Mustang muscle cars, but the performance vehicle specialist also has a truck lineup that includes the F-150 Super Snake street truck, Shelby F-150 off-road truck and Shelby Raptor, which takes Ford’s factory desert racer up a notch. Mind you, Shelby’s truck lineup also includes the F-250 Super Baja, which launched in 2021 as an extreme off-road performance version of Ford’s Super Duty truck, creating the niche for Baja-ready heavy-duty trucks. Shelby has now unveiled its 2026 Shelby F-250 Super Baja, which carries the distinction of being the company’s first vehicle to be built at Shelby Performance's new state-of-the-art facility in Bristol, Indiana. Rugged Exterior Styling Updates, Upscale Interior Shelby American Limited to 250 units, the 2026 F-250 Super Baja combines the heavy-duty work capability of the standard truck with off-road performance and customization befit of the Shelby brand. Compared to the previous Super Baja, the 2026MY doesn’t look that different, but it does gain a number of subtle updates that refine its looks. Those include a new functional Air Induction Hood with painted extraction vents, smooth painted OE style fender flares with marker lights, a custom painted grille, powder coated steel front and rear bumpers, tow points, air flow vents and LED lighting. The Baja-style truck also sports XL power steps with rock sliders and lights, Shelby Baja Bed chase rack with new 9-pod power-actuated led light bar, bed liner, tinted windows and powder coated exhaust tips. Rounding out the exterior changes are six exterior Shelby stripe color options and badges. The company claims the 2026MY is the most customizable Shelby F-250 in history; for example, customers now have the ability to match the grille lettering with either the body color or the stripes. Inside, the new Super Baja comes with exclusive full leather seat covers, accents and embroidery, digital gauges, custom carbon fiber accents, embroidered floor mats and billet racing pedals. Each vehicle sports Shelby Baja badges and a CSM serialized plate inside. Shelby Didn't Need to Touch the 6.7L PowerStroke V8 Turbo Diesel Shelby American Based on the factory F-250 SuperCrew Lariat Ultimate 4x4, the 2026 Shelby F-250 Super Baja is powered by the 6.7-liter High Output Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel making 500 hp and a monumental 1,200 lb-ft of torque. The motor is mated to a 10-speed TorqShift automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system. The impressive powertrain is combined with a Shelby-tuned performance suspension that’s said to give the three-quarter ton pickup “remarkable on and off-road capabilities and superior handling with best-in-class towing.” The new King Shocks suspension system increases the ride height and delivers more travel, adding more versatility to the truck. The Super Baja rides on two-tone 20-inch alloys shod with BFG 37-inch tires and has two spare wheels mounted on the steel chase rack in the bed. Shelby American "Shelby just reinvented the heavy-duty truck," said Vince LaViolette, Vice President of Operations and Senior Designer at Shelby American. "The three-quarter ton Shelby F-250 Super Baja can fluidly move over most any terrain, tow up to 22,000 pounds and looks really cool while doing it. These amazing vehicles are the pinnacle of the heavy duty truck market." Obviously, the Super Baja’s performance and exclusivity don’t come cheap. While a stock F-250 SuperCrew Lariat Ultimate 4x4 retails for around $97,000, Shelby’s upgrades (see the full list below) take the MSRP to $159,795, making it about $40,000 more expensive than Hennessey Performance's VelociRaptor 1200 F-250. The Shelby truck comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, and the powertrain warranty from Ford Motor Company remains intact. Production of the 2026 F-250 Super Baja limited edition started this month, and the public debut will take place on April 16-18 at the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Palm Beach at the South Florida Fairgrounds. The super truck will be offered through select Shelby Performance Ford dealers across the United States. Shelby American 2026 Shelby F-250 Super Baja Standard FeaturesPerformance Premium Full Suspension LiftKING Dual Steering StabilizersKING Race Series 2.5 Adjustable Front Coilovers w/ Finned Reservoir *For Smoother, Cooler ShocksKING Rear 2.5 Piggyback Shocks w/ Finned Reservoir*2” Tubular Radius ArmsInteriors Carbon Fiber Aesthetic Interior TrimBillet Racing PedalsShelby Registry CSM Serial Number Plaque w/ Engine Bay PlaqueExclusive Shelby Designed Top Grain Leather Seat CoversShelby Super Baja Console BadgeShelby Super Baja Embroidered Carpet Floor MatsTinted WindowsExteriors 37” BFG KM3 Mud-Terrain Tires20” Two-Tone Off-Road Wheels (6)2 Full Size Spare Wheel & Tire Mounts (Spares Included)Tire Sensor RecalibrationSpeedometer RecalibrationFour Wheel AlignmentPower Deployable XL Running Boards w/ Lights & Rock GuardsPainted Smooth OE Style Fender Flares w/ Marker LightsReplacement High Clearance Front Bumper by Addictive Desert Designs Includes: Recovery Points Air Flow Vents 40” Light Bar w/ 2 LED SAE/DOT Lights Rear Bumper Replacement w/ 2 - 10” LED Reverse LightsRear Marker LightsCustom Painted Grille w/ Marker LightsFull Replacement Air Induction Hood w/ Painted Hood VentActive Air Painted Fender Vents w/ Shelby LogoShelby Baja Bed Chase Rack w/ *NEW* 9 Pod Power Actuated LED Light Bar & Shelby Baja Side PanelsBlack SST Exhaust TipsShelby Full Body Le Mans Style StripesShelby Super Baja Bed Sides GraphicsOE Spray-In Bed LinerOptions 37” BFG K03 All-Terrain TiresSHELBY letter color optionsView the full article

As Fuel Prices Rise, EV Interest Rises TooFuel crises have often influenced car buyers to upsize or downsize their engines. When fuel prices are low and the economy is running smoothly, sure, a V8 sounds like a great idea. Economic downturns, recessions, or fuel price spikes are on the way? Well, I guess it's time to get a small hatchback with a frugal gasoline engine. Nowadays, Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are now part of the equation, not just small economy cars. Not citing anything here, but in general, even a run-of-the-mill hybrid compact sedan or crossover can eat less fuel than a small economy car with only a gasoline engine. Following the escalating tensions in Iran, fuel prices are on the rise, and so too has interest in electric vehicles (EVs). Edmunds published data based on its website's search traffic, supporting a current trend among car shoppers. Patrick T. Fallon / AFP via Getty Images First Ukraine, Now Iran Prior to this, the Russia-Ukraine conflict caused prices to spike back in 2022. Fuel-efficient vehicles (EVs and Hybrids included) gained more traction. Now the conflict in Iran is causing yet another spike. According to data from the American Automobile Association (AAA), the national average price per gallon peaked at $3.63 on March 13, 2026. This figure is up 31 cents from the week prior, at $3.32. However, in states with higher prices, such as California, the average price of a gallon of fuel is up to $5.416 (as of March 13, 2026). Prices surged by 11 cents on March 3, but that was just a sign of things to come. Based on the current trend, the fluctuations don't seem to be petering out anytime soon. Mostafa Bassim/Anadolu via Getty Images Buy Less Gas For More? Or Buy a New Car? Edmunds shared its data in its article, which showed "a slight uptick in shoppers exploring alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles." Over a fifth (22.4%) of traffic on Edmunds was for electrified vehicles (BEV, PHEV, and HEV). Prior to the fuel price fluctuations, Edmunds reported that electrified-vehicle research metrics accounted for 20.7% of all vehicle research traffic. It may be too early to tell whether this is a definitive shift in consumer behavior, as the Edmunds article suggests, and we're inclined to agree. Based on the shared data set, 22.4% is a break in resistance, which was also observed in 2022, at the height of the fuel spike due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict, when Total Electrified Vehicle Consideration Share reached 25.1% in March, when fuel prices surged. While "consideration" isn't a sale, data show that it can lead to something: global electric car sales exceeded 17 million units in 2024, with more than 20% of all new cars sold worldwide being electric vehicles. Getty Images Stay ICE, or Go EV? Will history repeat itself? Perhaps the market won't be as reactive as before. Edmunds also cited in its article that average vehicle financing costs have gone up since 2022. It's now 2026, and consumer dollars are worth considerably less than before. According to the site's New-Car Financing Costs: February 2026 vs. February 2022 (Averages), the average monthly payment on a new car back then was $656. Now, the average since February of this year is $775, and the average interest paid has increased from $5,395 (February 2022) to $9,784 (February 2026). Related: 300,000 EVs Are About to Hit the Used Car Market New car drivers who want to downsize also find themselves in an awkward spot: Does a fuel spike really necessitate a totally new car? Perhaps the more logical choice for car owners right now is to absorb the fuel costs and wait for them to stabilize. In layman's terms, tough it out. However, if you are reaching the end of your lease agreement or have an aging model nearing the end of its lifecycle, then an efficient vehicle would be the play. Perhaps it is also time to consider a second-hand EV as protection against rising fuel prices? Just a thought. Mercedes-Benz View the full article

The U.S. Treasury will soon be forced to start writing checks – a lot of checks – following the Supreme Court’s ruling that the Trump administration had no Constitutional power to collect an estimated $175 billion in tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA. That’s now been backed by two other rulings, including one by Judge Richard Eaton of the U.S. Court of International Trade in New York, who declared importers were “entitled to benefit” from those decisions without further delay. Clearly, major importers are hoping to get paid back as soon as possible. So are consumers who shelled out more on everything from imported groceries to foreign-made electronics. The auto industry is, of course, a major importer and, by various estimates, manufacturers collectively paid out about $25 billion in higher duties last year. So, the Supreme Court ruling might seem like a potential windfall for automakers – and auto buyers – alike. But, if you bought a vehicle since last April, don’t start anticipating one of those refund checks winding up in your mailbox. Related: Trump’s Latest Tariffs Spell Trouble for Hyundai and Kia Trump Loves TariffsGoing back to his first term in the White House, Donald Trump pitched import tariffs as a way to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. He got serious following his return to Washington in January 2025, launching a series of new duties covering virtually all foreign goods. Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images The president has enacted a number of different types of tariffs using different rules and regulations – even calling for new, short-term duties in response to last month’s Supreme Court ruling. The February 20 decision specifically focused on tariffs put in place under the IEEPA. Six of the nine justices ruled Trump overstepped his bounds enacting what were, effectively, new taxes. The U.S. Constitution specifically assigned the power to levy taxes to Congress. As a result, the tariffs were retroactively declared null and void. Refunds May Soon Be On The WaySince then, there have been two other rulings covering the illegal IEEPA tariffs, notably with the Court of International Trade effectively telling the White House to start the refund process without further delays. "This is a victory for small businesses who have paid billions in unlawful tariffs and deserve their money back," Dan Anthony, executive director of We Pay the Tariffs, said in a statement. "The court acted swiftly and correctly. Now the ball is in the government's court, and small businesses are concerned they will drag this out further." The Trump administration is also facing pressure from a number of major firms, including Bausch & Lomb, Dyson, FedEx and L'Oreal, who have filed suit to get the process rolling. Precisely how much needs to be repaid is uncertain. Estimates are that $133 billion was collected through the end of 2025, though CBS News reported a final figure could reach as high as $175 billion. Trump has routinely claimed tariffs are paid for by our foreign trade partners, in one post on Truth Social proclaiming, “BILLIONS OF DOLLARS, LARGELY FROM COUNTRIES THAT HAVE TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF THE UNITED STATES FOR MANY YEARS, LAUGHING ALL THE WAY, WILL START FLOWING INTO THE USA.” Who Pays?In fact, the results of a Federal Reserve study released last month found around 90% of the tariffs collected last year were paid for by Americans, based on U.S. Census Bureau and Foreign Trade Statistics. “Our results show that the bulk of the tariff incidence continues to fall on U.S. firms and consumers,” the Fed’s economists wrote. Americans “continue to bear the bulk of the economic burden of the high tariffs imposed in 2025.” Getty Images Clearly, the companies that paid tariffs directly into the U.S. Treasury will be getting refunds. But the question is then what happens with money they collected from their own customers? There’s another question: How much of the tariffs paid by the auto industry – and, indirectly, by its buyers – are covered by the Supreme Court ruling? Related: Tariffs Just Killed the Kia EV6 GT in America What’s in it for the auto industry?That’s where things get complicated. Automakers paid plenty of tariffs under the IEEPA, covering everything from maintenance supplies to machinery. But, it turns out, the vast majority of the $25 billion in tariffs were covered by separate regulations. And, at least for now, the courts have not addressed the duties put in place on foreign-made autos and auto parts, as well as imported steel and aluminum. That means the vast majority of the tariffs paid by the auto industry are still considered legal, noted Sam Abuelsamid, lead analyst with Telemetry Research. There could still be some money coming back and, as one former Speaker of the House liked to say, “a billion here, a billion there begins to add up to real money.” But unlike many other businesses, automaker such as General Motors, Ford and Toyota kept as much of (the tariffs) as they could out of MSRPs,” said Abulesamid – though he said some of the higher costs have been buried in destination fees that have risen by hundreds of dollars, on average, over the past year. As a result, “I expect the automakers to pass on absolutely zero,” even when they get any tariff refunds, he said. Such a decision might trigger class action lawsuits said Abuelsamid, but,. “Even if lawsuits do succeed it will take years for consumers to get any money back.” View the full article