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BMW has just become the latest manufacturer to reveal its 2025 earnings and sales figures, and unlike plenty of other European companies like Volkswagen and Mercedes, it has a pretty upbeat outlook on things. Despite the usual talk of tariff headwinds and intense market competition in China, the group, consisting of BMW and its motorbike division, Mini and Rolls-Royce, recorded a 7.7% profit margin – exactly the same as it did in 2024. Overall, it made a net profit of over €7 billion (around $8 billion), with some of that stability not necessarily coming from where you’d expect. M Breaks Records Again BMW The big headline from the earnings report, at least from an enthusiast point of view, is something we already had wind of earlier this year – that the popularity of BMW’s M models is growing and growing. In 2025, 213,449 of the 2,169,739 cars sold under the BMW brand came from its high performance division. That makes it the 14th year in a row that the division has had its best-ever sales year, and means that one in every 10 BMWs sold was an M model. Some of this can be put down to the fact that the M range is fairly broad these days, incorporating several SUVs as well as the traditional coupes and sedans, and also encompasses not-quite-full-fat M models like the M340i and X3 M50. However, what is clear is that the best-selling full-on M models were the M2 and M3 families – great news for fans of the division’s traditional six-cylinder coupes and sedans. EVs Grow Too BMW Despite the constant talk of slow electric car demand across the industry, BMW increased its sales share of full EVs in 2025. Across its three brands, it sold 442,056 electric vehicles in 2025, a 3.6% increase on 2024, and representing 17.9% of its total sales. Full EVs comfortably outsold plug-in hybrids too, of which the group sold 200,015. With an onslaught of EVs coming over the next few years, spearheaded by the new iX3, don’t be at all surprised to see that balance tip even further in EVs’ favor in the near future. Mini is also doing much of the heavy lifting here, with one in three of the brand’s sales now made up of EVs. Americas and Europe Compensate for China BMW There’s not a European brand to be found that’s not facing a struggle in China at the moment thanks to a combination of a weakening market and growing competition from local brands, and BMW was no exception, recording a fairly painful 12.5% sales drop there in 2025 compared with 2024. However, that drop was offset by success in other regions, with sales growing by 7.3% in Europe and 5.6% in the Americas. This was doubtless helped by the fact that BMW builds several of its wildly popular SUVs for the US market (and lots of others) at its Spartanburg, South Carolina plant, making it less vulnerable to tariffs than other European brands. What’s Next? BMW BMW, like pretty much every other car brand, expects to face much of the same challenges in 2026 as it did in 2025, namely the impact of tariffs and continued struggles in China. To offset this, it plans to make cuts in material and R&D costs, but has no plans to slow down its product launch: throughout the year, it has plans for no fewer than 40 all-new or refreshed models, including new generations of the all-important 3 Series and X5, and beginning with the new i3 next week – and given its ongoing success, we can expect a whole lot more from the M division too. View the full article

In a legal filing posted late on Wednesday night, Spire Motorsports co-owner Jeff Dickerson detailed his long personal relationship with Chris Gabehart and expressed deep disappointment in the lawsuit filed against them by Joe Gibbs Racing. Prior to team ownership, Dickerson served as an ex-grassroots racer, sports agent and spotter, whom eventually co-founded the Spire Sports+Entertainment ...Keep readingView the full article

In a late Wednesday night series of court filings, Chris Gabehart and his retained attorneys responded to or otherwise addressed the continued legal claims made against him and Spire Motorsports by Joe Gibbs Racing. The first document filed to the docket was a second first-person declaration in which the former engineer, crew chief and competition director made the case that his role as Chief ...Keep readingView the full article

A Premature RevealRivian is gearing up to launch the R2, a smaller, more affordable electric SUV aimed at buyers who found the R1T and R1S out of reach. The R2 keeps Rivian’s outdoorsy vibe but targets a price that could finally put the brand within reach for more people. But the run-up to launch didn’t go as planned. Tech site Ars Technica accidentally posted details a day early, and even though the article was pulled, the internet does what it does best: it remembers. That means we now have a surprisingly deep look at the R2’s specs and pricing before Rivian could make it official. Rivian Lineup Tops at $57,990Rivian Forums quickly picked up the leaked info, with one user piecing together specs and features from what was briefly online. Leading the lineup is the R2 Performance or Launch Edition, starting at $57,990 before delivery. It packs an 87.9-kWh battery for an estimated 330 miles of range, and can charge from 10 to 80 percent in about 29 minutes. Power numbers are strong: 656 hp and 609 lb-ft of torque. As expected, the top-spec Performance trim gets all the bells and whistles, including 21-inch wheels, matrix LED headlights, and both heated and ventilated front seats, plus heated rear seats. Size-wise, it’s a midsize SUV: 185.9 inches long, 78.1 wide, and 66.9 tall, riding on a 115.6-inch wheelbase. Ground clearance is 9.6 inches, and it can tow up to 4,400 pounds. Next down is the R2 Premium, due later in 2026 at $53,990. Power drops to 450 hp and 537 lb-ft, and it skips features like semi-active suspension and some drive modes, including Rally, Soft Sand, and Launch Mode. The Single Motor RWD version lands next year at $48,490. It makes 350 hp and 355 lb-ft, still uses the 87.9-kWh battery, and aims for 345 miles of range. Features are pared back: 19-inch wheels, black interior, only heated front seats, and a basic five-speaker audio system. This trim also loses the all-terrain drive mode and the drop-down rear glass window. Rivian The Most Affordable Rivian R2The real headline is the projected entry price. The R2 Standard, due in late 2027, could start at around $45,000 with a smaller battery and about 265 miles of range. That’s still higher than what many EV shoppers are hoping for, but it does put some distance between the R2 and Rivian’s bigger, pricier models. Another leak also revealed the paint color options, which include Half Moon Grey, Glacier White, Borealis, Launch Green, Midnight, Forest Green, Esker Silver, and Catalina Cove. We won’t have to wait long for answers. Rivian will officially unveil the R2 at SXSW on March 12, 2026, where we’ll see which of these leaked details actually make it to production. Rivian View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Ford has given its all-electric Explorer—the compact SUV sold in Europe, not its midsize namesake sold in the U.S.—major upgrades that make it better than ever. Built on Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform, the Ford Explorer EV has been enhanced with a new drive battery, a more powerful electric motor, an Explorer Collection limited series, as well as improved ADAS and tech features. More Range and Quicker Acceleration Ford of Europe Starting with the drivetrain, Ford Explorer Standard Range models now drive farther on a full charge and deliver faster acceleration thanks to the new 58-kWh lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery and enhanced electric motor. More specifically, the Explorer SR is now rated at 275 miles (444 km) on the WLTP test cycle, which is 37 miles better than before (an increase of more than 17%). Using a battery with LFP chemistry is also better for the environment as this type of battery requires fewer high-demand raw materials compared to traditional battery chemistries. On top of that, users can charge it regularly to 100% without significant damage, whereas NCA (nickel-cobalt-aluminum) and NMC (nickel-manganese-cobalt) batteries are less tolerant of high states of charge. As for the updated rear-mounted electric motor, it now makes 140 kW (188 hp) and 258 lb-ft of torque, accounting for gains of 20 hp and 30 lb-ft, respectively. That translates into quicker acceleration, with the 0-60 mph benchmark now taking 8 seconds, an improvement of 0.7 seconds. It’s also worth noting that Explorer EV models now feature one-pedal drive as standard. Smart Driving and Parking Features Galore Moving on to the tech stuff, the 2026 Ford Explorer EV brings upgrades to its ADAS suite, which now sees the Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control system adjust the vehicle’s speed by “reading” the surroundings, including speed signs, curves in the road ahead, junctions, and roundabouts. The system also adds Traffic Light Recognition, which allows it to automatically slow or stop the vehicle if it detects a red or amber light ahead. The 2026 Ford Explorer EV also gains a Reversing Assist function, which automates steering control during the reversing maneuver for up to 50 meters, retracing the last path the vehicle took, only backward; drivers only need to handle braking and acceleration. In similar fashion, Trained Park Assist precisely replicates previously performed parking actions to place the vehicle in the desired position by automatically taking care of acceleration, braking, and steering. The system can store up to five different parking scenarios and drive up to 50 meters for each one. Finally, the Driver State Assist driver monitoring system uses the driver-facing camera and Lane Keep Assist systems to detect if the driver pays attention to the road. If no steering input is detected, the system first taps the brakes to alert the driver, and if there’s still no reaction, it switches on the hazard warning lights, brings the vehicle to a full stop, unlocks the doors and calls emergency services. Bidirectional Charging and Android-Based Infotainment System Ford’s bidirectional charging capability debuts on the Explorer EV, enabling owners to turn their vehicle into a mobile power source that can power up to 2.3 kW of combined accessories using the vehicle’s drive battery. The Pro Power Onboard outlet is located in the trunk for charging laptops, for example, but an optional adapter can be plugged into the vehicle’s charge port to charge electric bikes or other outdoor accessories. The infotainment system sees its fair share of upgrades, including a 14.6-inch moveable screen that is now powered by new Android-based software and comes with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Additionally, the infotainment system’s graphics have been refreshed for increased clarity and ease of use, including expanded views of parking and navigation screens and the ability to group apps into folders. New Adventure-Inspired Explorer Collection Limited Edition Finally, the new Explorer Collection limited edition combines an adventure-inspired design with more standard equipment. The exterior features a Cactus Grey paint exclusive for this model, new 20-inch alloys in satin black, a black roof, front and rear skid plates, as well as dedicated door and rear pillar graphics. Inside, the Explorer Collection is finished in Black Onyx with orange accents on the seat sides, lower soundbar and seatbelts. The dash and center console sport a black and orange speckle effect, while the seats feature a unique 2D knit insert inspired by the texture of high-quality sport clothing and equipment. The 2026 Ford Explorer range is available to order across Europe starting March 10, with prices starting just under €40,000 ($46,300) in Germany. View the full article

Donut Lab’s Solid-State Claim Sparks Early CriticismEarlier this year, Finnish startup Donut Lab grabbed headlines after claiming it had developed the first production-ready solid-state EV battery capable of charging in about five minutes. The announcement quickly drew criticism, with some industry observers accusing the company of exaggerating or making misleading claims about its technology. Those accusations softened after an independent test showed the battery could charge to about 80 percent in 4.5 minutes, backing up the company’s fast-charging claims. But skeptics soon raised a new concern, suggesting the technology might actually be a supercapacitor rather than a true battery. Those allegations ultimately prompted Donut Lab’s latest test, designed to prove the device behaves like a real battery when left idle. New Self-Discharge Test Targets Supercapacitor ClaimsTo address the criticism, Donut Lab worked with the Finnish Technical Research Centre (VTT) to test how much energy its battery loses when sitting unused. A cell was charged to around 50 percent and left idle for 240 hours (10 days) while its voltage was continuously monitored at temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. The results showed the battery retained 97.7 percent of its charge, losing just 2.3 percent over the entire test period. Most of the drop occurred in the first hour due to voltage relaxation, a common effect after charging. Over the remaining nine days, voltage declined only slightly, suggesting the technology behaves like a battery rather than a supercapacitor, which would typically lose charge much faster. Donut Lab Why Solid-State Batteries Are The EV “Holy Grail”Solid-state batteries are widely considered the holy grail of EV development because they promise improvements in nearly every area that matters to drivers. Most notably, they could enable extremely fast charging, potentially allowing electric vehicles to recharge in minutes instead of hours. The technology could also deliver a longer lifespan, a greater range, and improved safety. Some developers believe future solid-state packs could last decades with minimal degradation while enabling vehicles to travel over 600 miles per charge. With these advantages in mind, automakers and battery manufacturers worldwide are investing heavily in the race to commercialize the technology. JEFF KOWALSKY/AFP via Getty Images Progress Continues Even If Solid-State Takes TimeDespite the hype, many experts believe mass-market solid-state batteries are still several years away. Scaling production, controlling costs, and ensuring long-term durability remain major technical challenges before the technology can be widely deployed. Meanwhile, improvements in current lithium-based batteries continue to deliver meaningful gains in charging speed and performance. Even with EV demand cooling slightly in some markets, the long-term shift toward electrification remains strong. With fuel prices often volatile, advances in battery technology suggest the industry is steadily moving closer to a tipping point for broader EV adoption. Donut Labs View the full article

It's Already Being Called The Great EV ReturnMore than 300,000 electric vehicles are expected to come off lease in 2026 alone, and they are about to flood the used car market. For buyers, that surge could finally create the kind of EV bargains that have been missing for years. Three years ago, EV leasing surged as incentives peaked and early adopters jumped in. Now those three-year contracts are ending, and thousands of those vehicles are returning to dealerships almost all at once. Dave Thomas, senior manager of industry insights at CDK Global, the software company that powers a huge share of dealership operations in the United States, talks about his reading of the dealership data on Electrek. When someone with access to hard data like that starts talking about value and affordability, we tend to pay attention. Kevin Carter/Getty Images Why Used EVs Are Suddenly Great ValueThe opportunity comes down to depreciation. A three-year-old gasoline car from Honda or Toyota typically holds its value really well. That’s a good thing… until you’re the one shopping for it. Strong residual values mean the sticker price on those used vehicles stays stubbornly high. Electric cars have followed a very different depreciation curve. Because EV technology is evolving quickly and new models arrive with better range and software every year, older electric vehicles tend to lose value faster. That drop in resale value may frustrate original owners, but it works entirely in favor of the second buyer. Someone shopping with a $20,000 budget in the traditional used car market is often looking at higher-mileage vehicles or older model years. In the used EV market, that same budget could land something far newer and better equipped, potentially even a low-mileage premium EV such as an Audi e-tron, Tesla Model 3, or Hyundai Ioniq 5, that has depreciated faster than expected. The result is a rare moment where the used EV market may offer better value than comparable ICE vehicles. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Used EVs Make Sense, On Both Sides of The TableThe surge in lease returns is also appealing for dealers. Electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, which means there is usually less mechanical wear when they come back from a three-year lease. That translates to lower reconditioning costs before the car can go on sale, not to mention EVs are spending less time on lots than gas-powered cars. For shoppers considering a used electric vehicle, focus on three-year-old lease returns. These cars tend to have relatively low mileage and predictable maintenance histories. Check the remaining battery warranty, too. Most EV manufacturers offer battery warranties around eight years or 100,000 miles, meaning many lease-return vehicles still have significant coverage left. For buyers previously priced out of electric cars, as well as budget shoppers, the Great EV Return may finally give them options that they can actually afford. View the full article

Engine SwapsA fairly recent but already somewhat accepted practice of car modding is engine swapping. This has already been going on for years with proper race cars, but as technology and capabilities improve and become more accessible, even normal tuners are trying it out. While most people choose to swap engines from cars from the same brand, there are others who are willing (or brave enough) to dabble in experimentation. We've seen some wild engine swaps in our time, but this one has to be up there. Datsun x Mercedes-BenzThe project is based on a Datsun 280Z, a highly sought-after model among enthusiasts. This 280Z, though, comes with a German beating heart; under the hood is an engine from Mercedes-Benz. While a V6 would be enough, given the original 280Z engine was the inline-six, this car goes for the crème de la crème: the 6.0-liter V12. The car belongs to Jordan Easter, who originally envisioned the build as a race car for hillclimbing. Apart from the notable engine, it also has a T56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission. There's a full walk-around and interview video with the car, courtesy of Michael Tung on his channel Tungtied. During the first hillclimb event, the car had some overheating issues, which led to another V12 swap, sourcing the engine from a '90s era Mercedes-SL. To address the cooling issues, the second engine swap now features a Megasquirt MS3 Pro ECU, coupled with a heavy-duty custom-built Griffin radiator. An engine this big also meant that the car's wiring needed to be completely redone, and the battery was also moved to a different spot. Other mods were done to really ensure better engine temperature management. The coolest mod, though are the headers and exhaust system, making this 280Z sound like a screaming Pagani Zonda. The V12 M120 LoreFor those who don't know, the M120 V12 was built by Mercedes-Benz in the '90s in response to BMW's V12. The M120 saw multiple usage in the S-Class and the top-spec SL models, too. This 6.0-liter V12 was smooth and powerful, putting out around 394 hp stock, which for the time was a lot. The most notable M120 application, though, was its use by Pagani as the original engine for the Zonda. Pagani loved the engine so much that they pretty much used it for all their models from 1999 through the final Zonda in 2014. So while it sounds crazy to have a Mercedes V12 in a Datsun, if it was good for Pagani, it should be good for anyone. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Australia's Problematic SwiftThe Australian market had the new Suzuki Swift for a minute before it crashed and was pulled from shelves. Suzuki Australia made a few calls following the results of the Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) in 2024. Prior to this, the Euro NCAP tested the Swift, which scored fairly well with a three-star rating. Given the Euro NCAP score, it’s fair to assume the Australian-market Swift would net similar scores, but even Suzuki Australia was caught off-guard by the one-star ANCAP Safety Rating it received in 2024. Isn’t this supposed to be a global model? So What Gives? CarExpert got a minute with the General Manager for Suzuki Australia, Michael Pachota. In an interview, Pachota stated: “[The] European car got a three-star [Euro] NCAP safety rating, our car got one star. We then fed that back to the manufacturer, and they said 'well, there is a slight specification difference in the vehicle itself,' to which point we then said 'okay, that’s the car we need' – so we phased out the one-star car and brought in the three-star car.” Based on the statement, it appears Suzuki Australia was blindsided, prompting their boss to call the supplier, Suzuki Global, and to promptly investigate the matter. Apparently, there was a specification difference between the European and the Australian market units. “Slight” was the word that Pachota used, which could be an understatement. However, the Euro NCAP score for the Swift isn’t that high a bar to clear, as the Swift qualifies as a three-star car only. This Isn’t The First TimeSuzuki is on a roll, or a slump, depending on how you want to put it. For some reason, the Japanese brand in the land down under couldn’t get things right two times in a row. As stated in a related story, the Suzuki Fronx, a compact SUV from the Japanese marque, passed other NCAP tests with flying colors, but the ANCAP remains one tough nut to crack for the Japanese marque. In the ASEAN NCAP results, the Suzuki Fronx earned a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, a far cry from the Australian NCAP result of one star. In a similar fashion, that model was pulled from the market until Suzuki Australia could get a retest with the ANCAP. Spot the Difference The very first ANCAP result in 2024 noted that the “[Suzuki Swift’s] protection of the chest was WEAK for the driver. Structures in the dashboard were a potential source of injury for the driver and front passenger, and protection of the upper legs was rated MARGINAL. The driver’s lower legs were also rated as MARGINAL, with protection of the driver’s feet rated POOR based on rearward pedal movement. Protection of the chest and lower legs of the front passenger was ADEQUATE for the lower legs. GOOD protection was offered to the head and neck of both the driver and front passenger. After the changes, however, the Suzuki Swift currently sits at a three-star rating with the ANCAP in the 2025 crash test. Suzuki retested with another unit in September 2025 and received a three-star rating, similar to the Euro NCAP rating for the Swift. The Euro-spec—now Australian-spec—Suzuki Swift now has additional front-end reinforcements that were missing, unbeknownst to Suzuki Australia. Now Aussie customers can enjoy two more stars' worth of peace of mind. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Mercedes Slapped With $7.6M EV Battery FineSouth Korea’s Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC) has fined Mercedes-Benz 11.2 billion won ($7.6 million) after determining the automaker misled customers about the battery suppliers used in some of its electric vehicles. The ruling stated that the company’s marketing materials and dealer sales guides inaccurately described battery sourcing in certain EV models. According to the regulator, models including the Mercedes-Benz EQE and Mercedes-Benz EQS were promoted as using batteries supplied by CATL, the world’s largest EV battery maker. Investigators found that some vehicles instead used battery cells from Farasis Energy, a lesser-known Chinese supplier, information that was omitted from dealer guides and marketing materials. CATL Battery Information Was Allegedly OmittedAccording to Reuters, the KFTC said Mercedes-Benz distributed an internal sales manual to dealers in June 2023 outlining details about its electric vehicle lineup. The materials reportedly emphasized the advantages and global leadership of CATL batteries while failing to mention that some models were equipped with Farasis battery cells. Because dealers relied on those sales guides, regulators believe many sales staff unknowingly highlighted CATL battery technology when promoting the vehicles to customers. The commission said the Korean subsidiary had received detailed information about battery suppliers from the company’s German headquarters as early as 2021, but did not fully reflect that information in its local sales materials. Mercedes-Benz EV Fire Investigation Leads to Fine and Wider Battery Disclosure ProbeThe investigation began after a 2024 fire involving a parked Mercedes-Benz EQE in Incheon, South Korea. Authorities later determined that the vehicle was equipped with battery cells supplied by Farasis Energy, prompting regulators to examine whether consumers had been properly informed about the battery supplier. It is interesting to note that last month, Mercedes-Benz issued a warning here in the USA, advising owners of models using Farasis batteries to charge their vehicles outdoors. The blaze occurred in the underground parking garage of an apartment complex and caused significant damage. Reports indicated that more than 100 nearby vehicles were destroyed, while residents were temporarily evacuated as firefighters worked to contain the fire. Mercedes-Benz The LowdownAccording to the KFTC, about 3,000 vehicles equipped with Farasis battery cells were sold in South Korea between June 2023 and August 2024, generating roughly 281 billion won ($191 million) in revenue. The agency issued a $7.6 million fine, which is the maximum allowed under Korean law, equal to about 4 percent of related sales. Mercedes-Benz Korea says it disputes the ruling and plans to challenge it in court. As EV technology continues to evolve, battery development remains one of the most expensive and complex parts of the industry. With EV sales growth slowing in some markets, automakers are under pressure to control costs and protect margins, often by sourcing batteries from different suppliers. However, cases like this highlight the importance of transparency, especially as regulators and consumers increasingly scrutinize how companies communicate key details about EV technology. Sebastian Blanco View the full article

After a long time watching the rest of the world benefit from Nissan's innovative e-Power hybrid system, which aims to combine the benefits of both all-electric and gas powertrains in a single setup, America will finally get access with the 2027 Rogue crossover. And if recent comments made at a media event outside Detroit are anything to go by, Nissan isn't stopping there. According to Carscoops, Nissan officials indicated that more e-Power models will come to the U.S. before long, and it's pretty easy to guess what they're hinting at. U.S.-Spec Nissan Kicks Likely to Gain e-Power Hybrid Nissan Down in Mexico, Nissan already offers the Kicks Play e-Power and has done since 2022, using a 1.2-liter engine as a generator for the tiny 2.1kWh lithium-ion battery pack. These supply an electric motor producing 134 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, allowing the diminutive crossover to drive like an all-electric vehicle while still being as convenient to run as a gas car. Thus, it appears that Nissan USA is preparing to introduce a Kicks with a third-generation e-Power setup, which has already been introduced in Europe's similar Qashqai. In that vehicle, the 2.1kWh battery and an electric motor are paired with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine for a total output of 202 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque, considerably more than we currently get with the 2026 Kicks, which makes 141 hp and 140 lb-ft from its 2.0-liter four-pot. For the U.S., Nissan told us last year that the e-Power system will be tuned to better suit the kind of highway driving Americans do, while Euro-spec vehicles are "set up for dense traffic conditions." Related: Nissan and Uber Could Team Up to Challenge Tesla’s Cybercab While increased performance will make the Kicks more sprightly, the main reason it's worth getting excited about will be seen when it undergoes EPA testing, as the current Kicks scores 28/35/31 mpg on the U.S. city/highway/combined cycles. While those figures are reasonably good, Nissan's rivals at Toyota have eked out figures of 46/39/42 mpg on the same EPA tests with the Corolla Cross. Nissan e-Power Could Be a Game-Changer Nissan When we tested the e-Power system in a Nissan Qashqai (which is basically the European equivalent of what we were offered in the Rogue Sport) in Tennessee late last year, we found that despite low horsepower figures, the crossover was surprisingly eager, proving more responsive and torquier than the gas-powered Rogue. We also felt that there was none of the lag often associated with conventional mild-hybrids and plug-in hybrids, nor was there much noise, despite the gas engine running most of the time, making the driving experience smooth and comfortable. Hopefully, these attributes will help Nissan get back on track in North America. It's just a matter of waiting for the e-Power's attributes to be confirmed on a U.S.-spec Kicks. View the full article

Scout’s Tow Rating ProblemElectric pickup and SUV maker Scout Motors recently drew the ire of potential customers with the announcement that its pickup truck’s advertised tow rating could drop by 50 percent when equipped with a gasoline-powered range-extender. While this system increases overall range from 350 to 500 miles, the announcement that the Scout Terra pickup’s tow rating could drop from 10,000 lbs to about 5,000 lbs has not gone down well with prospective buyers, especially those with hauling or towing requirements. Scout Motors CEO Suggests Possible Fix in the Works Speaking at a recent industry event, Scout CEO Scott Keogh hinted that the company’s engineers are working on a solution to the towing limitations issue, giving fans of the rugged electric pickup some hope. He, however, declined to elaborate further with any technical details. Considering that about 87 percent of Scout’s 160,000 reservations so far are for extended-range variants of their Terra pickup and Traveler SUV, it seems like the company has no option but to come up with a solution. Both vehicles are positioned as rugged electric 4x4s and are expected to use body-on-frame construction with solid rear axles and mechanical locking diffs. Scout Motors Production Still a While AwayDespite this towing capacity debacle, Scout still has plenty of development time left to address this concern. Their electric 4X4s aren’t expected to hit production lines until later this decade, giving engineers plenty of time to refine the hardware and address capability concerns before actual customers get behind the wheel. View the full article

Purpose Over PerformanceWhile the smooth, conservative BMW-sourced engines in the Ineos Grenadier serve their purpose, the retro-styled off-roader hasn’t prioritized high performance. A more potent version may help the Grenadier be in the same conversation as popular 4x4 SUVs such as the Mercedes-AMG G63, but that seems like a long shot. However, CarExpert sought an update from Ineos Automotive on whether the automaker had changed its mind. Perhaps slightly, though nothing particularly convincing so far. Ineos Australia head Justin Hocevar told the publication at the launch of the MY26 Grenadier range, “We’d like to see something like that come here.” Enthusiasm for the V8 ConceptAccording to Hocevar, the V8-powered concept unveiled at Goodwood “received a lot of enthusiasm” not only from customers but also from dealer networks and distributors. Some of that interest could also be tied to markets like the U.S., where V8 engines remain particularly popular. The concept used a 6.2-liter LS V8 from General Motors, a platform that many American enthusiasts know well and one that enjoys massive aftermarket support. What is clear, however, is the performance boost: the LS-swapped concept produces 425 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. That represents more than a 140-horsepower increase over the standard 3.0-liter gasoline B58 inline-six from BMW. The same unit is used in the outgoing Toyota GR Supra, although the performance car delivers 382 horsepower. Ineos detuned the engine to prioritize reliability and improve low-end torque, traits better suited for off-roading. One challenge is that mass-producing the V8 version at its France-based manufacturing plant would require re-engineering several components, which would drive up costs. Ineos Sticking With BMW PowerFor now, Hocevar explained that Ineos is retaining the current BMW engines, saying, “We already know there’s huge potential that’s yet to be tapped in our version of the B57 and B58 engines. Obviously, BMW and Toyota run higher output versions in some of their vehicles, and we’ve seen some solutions tested in the aftermarket already.” He added, “So, I think that that’s the best way to go.” In the U.S., the Grenadier with the standard B58 engine starts at $71,000, excluding destination fees. The B57 diesel, available in other markets, isn’t sold stateside. A Black Edition is also offered for $82,995 for those who prefer a murdered-out look. Ineos View the full article

It was really easy on Sunday to see flat tires or tires come apart during the Cup Series race at Phoenix Raceway and say ‘tire failure’ but everyone with a reputable resume know that teams with problems were largely responsible for their fate. As best described by Joe Gibbs Racing No. 20 crew chief Adam Stevens, there is a risk-versus-reward balance “It’s so tough,” Stevens said ...Keep readingView the full article

As the average price of a new car reached an all-time record high of $50,326 in December 2025, U.S. shoppers are having a difficult time keeping up with the increasing total cost of vehicle ownership, which has risen 48% since 2019 according to data from Cox Automotive. Since only one in five American buyers can afford to pay cash up front to get a new car, it goes without saying that car loans and leases are the preferred buying method for the vast majority of consumers. A Sign That Many U.S. New Car Buyers Are More Cash-Strapped Than Ever Getty Images The problem is the rate and length of auto loans have skyrocketed last year, with the average monthly payment for new-vehicle buyers through December 2025 reaching $722, up 2.4% compared to 2024, according to Automotive News. Perhaps more worryingly, loan terms are getting longer: 20.8% of new vehicles financed had a loan term of 84 months or more. Yes, you’ve read that right: over one in five U.S. new car shoppers signed up for seven years or more of payments. Down payments are another indicator that many buyers don’t have enough cash to put down at signing in order to have lower monthly payments later on. The average down payment for a new vehicle was around $6,228 in 2025, down 9.2% year-over-year. This is a sign that Americans are saving their hard-earned cash for other basic needs. The downside of such long loan terms and low down payments is not hard to guess—monthly car payments are getting higher fueled by increasing new car prices and high interest rates. Long Auto Loans Can Lead to Negative Equity FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images For people who can afford to pay $700 or more each month on their auto loan, that may not seem like a problem, but experts warn that those who sign 84-month loan agreements and bring in low down payments face the risk of negative equity over time. In plain English, that means they end up owing more than the financed car is worth. That’s probably not something most buyers worry about, but it can become a problem if they decide to sell or trade in their car before the loan is paid off. Needless to say, the longer a car loan agreement is, the higher the risk of a default. The rise in long-term auto loans points to the financial strain many Americans are dealing with when purchasing new vehicles. And the situation is not likely to improve anytime soon. “I don't assume cars will be any cheaper five or six years from now,” Joseph Yoon, Consumer Insights Analyst for Edmunds, told AN. And let's not forget about inflation, which could rise significantly because of the war in the Middle East, due to its potential to send oil prices to unsustainable levels and disrupt supply chains, wreaking havoc on the global economy in the process. All that paints a bleaker picture than ever for new car shoppers—at least in our lifetime. View the full article

Japan’s Deep-Rooted Car Culture Makes Places Like This PossibleWhat would you do if you suddenly won the lottery? For car enthusiasts, the answer might involve a dream garage or even a racetrack of your own. Japan already offers plenty of reasons to visit, from its unique cuisine and centuries-old traditions to its futuristic cities, but its deeply ingrained automotive culture is just as compelling. In a country where car enthusiasm blends seamlessly with everyday life, it’s perhaps no surprise that one billionaire took things to the extreme and built his own private racetrack in the mountains. That culture runs deep. Long before social media amplified car trends globally, Japanese tuning legends were already pushing boundaries. Even global political figures have been briefly swept up by Japan’s automotive charm. Against that backdrop of deeply ingrained car enthusiasm, it’s perhaps no surprise that one of the world’s most exclusive racetracks would emerge here, built not by a manufacturer, but by a billionaire simply wanting a place to drive with his family. Inside the Magarigawa Club, a $200 Million Private RacetrackNestled in the mountains of Chiba Prefecture overlooking Tokyo Bay, with Mount Fuji visible in the distance, the Magarigawa Club is one of the most extravagant automotive playgrounds ever built. Commissioned by a Japanese billionaire, the $200 million facility was initially intended as a private racetrack where he could enjoy his supercar collection with his wife and children. The circuit itself stretches for more than two miles and features 22 turns designed to challenge even experienced drivers. The layout was created by Hermann Tilke, the same architect responsible for modern Formula One venues like the Bahrain International Circuit and Yas Marina Circuit. One of the track’s most unusual design elements is its proximity to the owner’s residence; the circuit actually begins near the house and runs past a swimming pool before climbing into the surrounding mountains. The technical layout includes elevation changes, long straights, and tight corners intended to push high-performance machines to their limits. Instagram - @themagarigawaclub View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Members OnlyToday, the track is no longer just a family project. The Magarigawa Club has evolved into one of the most exclusive automotive clubs in the world, with membership reportedly costing around $230,000 per year. For those who can afford it, it’s a luxury retreat designed for wealthy collectors who want a private environment to drive their cars hard without the constraints of public circuits or crowded track days. Magarigawa Club ultimately shows what happens when extreme wealth meets deep automotive passion. While most enthusiasts settle for the occasional track day, the world’s richest collectors can build their own circuits, breathtaking scenery, and five-star amenities. Yet the track also reflects something uniquely Japanese: a country where car culture is so deeply ingrained that even a billionaire’s private racetrack feels like a natural extension of the national obsession with performance machines. Instagram - @themagarigawaclub View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

There are many boutique car companies out there that specialize in restoring and modifying old cars, and the restomod projects they craft are every bit as spectacular as those coming from established (and high-end) names like Singer Vehicle Design, Eagle, Emory Motorsports, Icon 4×4, Mechatronik, or Alfaholics. If you want to breathe new life into your classic car, you’ve got lots of small workshops that can make your vision come true. Owners of old Mercedes-Benz cars are spoiled for choice in that respect, including in the United States, where many companies will happily take their money. One of them is Retro Designs, a lesser known firm based out of Harrisburg, North Carolina, whose philosophy is to bring iconic automobiles back to life with modern engineering and subtle styling upgrades. They mostly work on classic Corvettes, but they also do American trucks and European icons. A Classic Coupe with a Pumping AMG V8 Heart View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article In celebration of their 15th anniversary, they have just released a fully reimagined 1969 Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Coupe from the W111 generation (the direct ancestor to the S-Class) that they claim is “the world’s fastest 280 SE ever built.” That’s a big statement, and it is backed by the engine Retro Designs has transplanted into the elegant coupe. That is the hand-built, naturally aspirated AMG 5.4-liter M113 V8 engine, sourced from a 2006 Mercedes C55 AMG. Originally fitted to production models built from the late 1990s to the mid-2000s, including the C55 AMG, CLK55 AMG, SLK55 AMG and early ML55 AMG, the V8 is said to put out four times more horsepower than the stock 2.8-liter inline six-cylinder motor originally fitted to the 280 SE. That means the M113 V8 has been significantly upgraded, too, since in stock form it was good for up to 362 hp. Four times more horsepower than the 280 SE’s stock 160 hp would indicate an output of around 640 hp, which you wouldn’t expect from this iconic coupe that looks pretty much stock. No performance specs were released, but it’s not hard to imagine it's much faster than Mercedes-Benz originally intended. The engine is hooked to a Mercedes-Benz 5G-Tronic (722.6) 5-speed automatic transmission, which was also used in various AMG models of the early 2000s. Retro Designs chose it because it fit perfectly to the chassis and did not require changes to the central tunnel. Speaking of the chassis, it’s a bespoke one and it features a fully reworked suspension and a Brembo braking system to ensure adequate stopping power. Subtle Tweaks to a Timeless DesignIn the looks department, the only changes Retro Designs made to the timeless coupe include removing the sunroof, painting the body Porsche Irish Green, and fitting custom billet wheels inspired by the original steel wheels and hubcaps. Mind you, the custom Evod Industries billet wheels alone, which feature floating hubcaps with stationary logos in motion, cost $20,000. The same philosophy of retaining the original look was applied to the interior, although the modern upgrades are more obvious. They include accent lighting, Dakota Digital gauges, modern stereo system, and an upgraded Vintage Air HVAC system integrated to work with the original dash and firewall. “The classic 280 SE gave us the perfect platform to push the limits of what a vintage Mercedes custom build can be,” said Daniel Valjevac, Retro Designs general manager. “Our team preserved its ageless presence while completely reengineering the car underneath to create what we believe is the fastest 280 SE ever built,” he added. Retro Designs says this build is one of the most expensive vehicles it has ever restored: it's currently up for sale for $500,000. The restoration took thousands of hours and involved a team of expert technicians and specialists that refined every exterior, interior and mechanical detail with obsessive care—and that's obvious by the way it looks. We'll leave it up to you to decide if it's worth half a million dollars, though. View the 18 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

BYD’s Racing AmbitionFormula 1 is set to hold the second race of the 2026 season at the Shanghai International Circuit in China this weekend. But even for those who couldn’t care less about the race itself, a Bloomberg report points to an interesting development. According to unnamed sources cited by the publication, BYD is exploring the possibility of joining the sport, something no Chinese automaker has accomplished before. BYD lining up on the same grid as Ferrari and McLaren sounds a little unreal, at least for now. However, the idea of a Chinese manufacturer entering F1 is something FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has already touched on, saying it would be the next logical step for the sport, especially after Cadillac debuted this season as the 11th team. It is worth noting that BYD isn’t necessarily considering becoming the 12th team; one possibility is acquiring an existing team. BYD Electrification Changes the GameWhile BYD is known for affordable electrified vehicles — including battery electric models that helped it beat Tesla in BEV sales in 2025 — the company has also tapped into the world of performance. In fact, its luxury division, Yangwang, currently holds the record for the fastest production EV around the Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany with the U9 Extreme, beating the Rimac Nevera’s lap time by about six seconds. For the longest time, F1 has been famous for loud exhausts and cutting-edge aerodynamics, but the new 2026 engine regulations also heavily emphasize electrification, with power split roughly 50-50 between the 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 and the electric motor known as the motor-generator unit (MGU-K). As such, BYD may not be entirely out of its depth given its extensive electrified portfolio, and a strategic partner could help strengthen its bid. BYD Racing for Global RecognitionIf BYD makes its way to F1, it would join automakers newly involved in the sport, such as Audi and Cadillac, while Ford has returned through its technical partnership with Red Bull Racing. More importantly, it could help boost the brand’s global appeal, as the series has long been deemed the pinnacle of motorsport and hosts races in more than 20 countries worldwide, including in Japan at the Suzuka Circuit and across several tracks in the United States. In addition to F1, the Chinese automaker is also considering an entry into the World Endurance Championship (WEC), including the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans. Such a move would put the reliability of its cars to the ultimate test. BYD View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

25 years ago, Porsche revealed the Carrera GT at the 2000 Paris Motor Show with a glorious Le Mans-derived 5.7-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine, and in 2010, the German automaker presented the 918 Spyder at the Geneva Motor Show with a 4.6-liter V8 assisted by electric motors. But that's where Porsche's hypercar story ends, with no successor in sight—until now. As first reported by Motor1, Porsche's annual press conference earlier today left nuggets of hope that a new performance vehicle above the 911 model line may soon come to fruition as Porsche tries to right the ship following a difficult 2025. Porsche's New CEO Wants to Focus on More Profitable Offerings Drew Phillips/Autoblog Recently appointed successor to Oliver Blume, new Porsche CEO Michael Leiters, said, "We are considering the expansion of our product portfolio in order to grow in higher-margin segments. In doing so, we are looking at models and derivatives both above our current two-door sports cars and above the Cayenne." The automaker also showed a shadowy silhouette that may or may not represent the Mission X concept revealed in 2023. This was intended to be an all-electric hypercar, but as Mate Rimac has learned, all-electric vehicles are not as popular as hoped, despite their extraordinary performance, so it seems reasonable to assume that a new Porsche halo would restrict electrification to a hybrid powertrain. Related: Porsche’s Most Powerful Cayenne Is Getting Tweaked for 2027 Leiters has also committed to "extending the life of our combustion engine and hybrid offerings," a decision that meets "customer wishes." Automotive News reports that Leiters said, "We will comprehensively reposition Porsche, make the company leaner, faster, and the products more desirable." A new hypercar would certainly achieve the latter. We'll have to wait for more info to become available before we can speculate on what a new high-performance Porsche above the 911 could be like, but we already have several clues as to what else the Stuttgart-based brand has up its sleeve. Plenty of New High-Performance Porsches on the Way SH Proshots/Autoblog Porsche's CEO's comments didn't only mention new models, like a possible Taycan and Panamera replacement under one new name, but also new derivatives of existing ones, and there's plenty to look forward to. A recent report claimed that the first-ever Porsche 911 GT3 Cabriolet would debut this month, and a development mule spied on the Nürburgring last year appeared to foreshadow a new 911 GT2 RS that could cost over half a million dollars. That would certainly count as a "higher-margin" product. We've also spied new high-performance EVs, including a Cayenne EV with wild aero and a Taycan with clear GT3 RS influence in its aggressive bodywork. The all-electric Cayman and Boxster sports cars are still happening, and so is a new three-row SUV to sit above the Cayenne. Will these be enough to improve Porsche's financial statement in challenging times? That remains to be seen, but it's encouraging to see that Porsche isn't being idle. View the full article

Late last year, Honda said it would be introducing support for its older sports cars by expanding parts availability for selected models. The global program initially started in Japan, but Acura has now launched its own Honda Heritage Parts program in the United States. Owners of the first-generation Acura NSX will now be able to purchase either Genuine Honda Reproduction Parts or Honda Compatible Parts for the iconic sports car, making it easier to maintain these cars decades after they were first launched. Honda Heritage Parts Explained 1991 Acura NSX View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article To make the new initiative possible, Honda created a new collaborative framework with parts suppliers. Technological advancements, the use of new materials, and updated manufacturing methods have all contributed to the global service. Genuine Honda Reproduction Parts will be reproduced with the same materials and methods as used for the NSX’s original parts. If original parts for the sports car are no longer available for sale, Honda Compatible Parts will be newly redeveloped and reproduced to replace them. Parts will be available for the first-gen Acura NSX at local dealerships from this summer, so if your NSX needs new rubbers, electronics, powertrain components, or more, these will now be much more accessible. "In this 40th anniversary year of the Acura brand, the launch of Honda Heritage Parts is especially meaningful, giving Acura enthusiasts the support they need to continue enjoying their first-generation Acura NSX," said Steven Bailey, vice president of Honda and Acura Parts, Service and Technical Division. "At its core, the new Honda Heritage Parts program honors our shared passion for these iconic vehicles and helps ensure they can be enjoyed by future generations." In Japan, the Honda Restoration Service will additionally be available for the original NSX. Owners will be able to have their vehicles properly restored. So far, no announcements have been made about this service reaching other markets. Related: 320,000 Miles Later, This 1995 Acura NSX-T For Sale Is Still Pristine What About Other Honda and Acura Models? Honda For now, the Honda Heritage Parts service is reserved for the first-gen NSX. This is a logical car to start with, given the high values of well-preserved NSXs. The car has a loyal following and design houses like Italdesign have come up with their own tributes to the sports car in recent months, underlining the excitement that still exists for it all these years later. However, Honda did say that supplying parts for other Acura and Honda models is being evaluated as part of the program. The Japanese brands have an extensive history of highly valued enthusiast models, several of which are over 20 years old and would benefit from the service. These are a few sporty Hondas/Acuras that spring to mind: Honda S2000Honda Prelude (3rd/4th Generations)Acura Integra/RSXHonda CR-X SiAll these cars are popular and sought-after today, but they’re increasingly difficult to source parts for given their age. Some also have rare and more complex components, such the third-generation Prelude’s optional four-wheel steering system. This was the first mass-produced car to offer such a system. What It Means Honda The Honda Heritage Parts service will help to keep the NSX fresh and relevant for a new generation. It will preserve the authenticity of the iconic sports car and improve reliability as the NSX ages, thanks to the use of genuine, period-correct parts. With the launch of the service, Honda joins fellow Japanese brands like Toyota, which has its own GR Heritage Parts Project. That project benefits the classic AE86 Corolla Levin and Sprinter Trueno, which use the popular 4A-GE engine. As manufacturers inevitably move towards an electrified future and attract new customers, these programs support a passionate group of fans, many of whom have been with the brands for decades. View the full article

Whether because automakers assumed EVs would take over or they felt their offerings were too old to keep on the market, there has been a shortage of midsize van offerings, and Ram has realized that it's a gap worth filling, reintroducing the ProMaster City for the 2027 model year after it went away in 2022. It will only go on sale around this time next year, but when it does, Ram says it won't break the bank, targeting a starting price of under $40,000 despite being built in Turkey, which may still be subject to import tariffs. That would give it the "lowest cost of acquisition in the commercial-van segment," proclaims the automaker. The brand calls it a "right-size" commercial van, endowing it with more size than its predecessor while maintaining virtually the same turning circle. Based on Stellantis' K0 global midsize commercial van platform, it shares underpinnings with the likes of the Citroën Dispatch, Fiat Scudo, Vauxhaull Vivaro, and others. Let's see what the North American spec will offer U.S. buyers. 2027 Ram ProMaster City Gets Fresh Looks, Loads of Space Stellantis View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article At the front, the ProMaster City debuts Ram's new wordmark logo and a set of tapering daytime running lights in each cluster, calling to mind the discontinued electric Ram 1500 REV. In base Tradesman form, you get unpainted black plastic bumpers front and rear and 17-inch steel wheels, but upgrade to the SLT trim, and you get front fog lamps, body-color paint at each end, and two-tone alloy wheels. Either trim can be had as a cargo panel van or a passenger van, with the latter offering a choice between five seats or, with the optional third row, eight. The passenger van can also be ordered with an SUV-style liftgate, while the cargo van can only be had with swing gates, but they open up to 180 degrees to make loading easy. The cargo van can be specified with full side panels, full side glass, or a blend of the two. Stellantis View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article While we're on the subject of practical considerations, the new ProMaster City is nearly two feet longer than before, with a wheelbase now measuring 129 inches (up from 122.4). The squared-off cargo area offers over 167 cubic feet of volume and a 111-inch-long load floor with over 48 inches between the rear wheel wells. This over-9-foot-long cargo area is big enough to fit two standard U.S. pallets front to back, and Ram is aiming for 2,000 lbs of towing capability and over 2,000 lbs of payload. As big as the cargo area is, the van is jsut under 77 inches tall, makig it the only Class 2 commercial van shorter than 80 inches, making it small enough to fit in most garages and parking buildings. 2027 Ram ProMaster City Powertrain and Cabin Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Under the hood, the ProMaster City will be sold in Canada, the United States, and Mexico with a similar 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder to that of the new Jeep Cherokee, but this one is built in Hungary, another country saddled with tariffs. It offers 166 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque and sends all its grunt to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD is not offered. Inside, whether Tradesman or SLT, the driver gets a 10-inch digital cluster with a matching touchscreen atop the dash providing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also standard are heated front seats, navigation, and a digital rearview mirror, and on the SLT, front parking sensors and a wireless charging pad are added. Sound good? Orders open in the second half of 2026, with production expected in Q4 and an on-sale date in the first three months of 2027. Hopefully, Ram's targeted sub-$40,000 base price will survive until then. Stellantis View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Hendrick Motorsports will put 2024 NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series champion Justin Allgaier behind the wheel of the #48 Chevrolet for this weekend's race at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Alex Bowman was forced out of the car mid-race at COTA with Myatt Snider finishing the event for him, and later in the week, he was diagnosed with vertigo. HMS sim driver Anthony Alfredo drove the car at Phoenix ...Keep readingView the full article

Dodge’s muscle cars have been known for offering a variety of eye-popping color options through the years, and that’s continued with the arrival of the new-generation Charger. The vivid orange, blue, and green options already available have now been joined by a new color called Sub-Zero. A stealthier option for the muscle car, Sub-Zero joins an array of customization options to recently become available, including special hood graphics and stripes. The new paint option’s special trick is its ability to change its appearance based on the amount of natural light. Related: Funky or Fun? Automakers and Their Interesting Names for Colors Sub-Zero Joins Exciting Color Palette Stellantis Sub-Zero is a blue-gray solid hue that complements the brawny body of the two- and four-door Chargers well. In the shade, it has a deep and subtle appearance, but direct sunlight brightens up the paint with a cool-tone blue. “The roll-out of customization options continues to the delight of the brotherhood. An ice-cold paint to go with their ICE-powered all-wheel-drive muscle car,” said Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO. “Sub-Zero is the next in line of options available for the entire Charger lineup, from the 420-horsepower SixPack-powered Charger R/T and the 550-horsepower SixPack-powered Scat Pack to the 670-horsepower Charger Daytona Scat Pack.” Stellantis Sub-Zero is a $795 option, making it one of the more expensive paint options for the Charger. Here’s a look at the muscle car’s complete list of color choices and their prices: Diamond Black Crystal (no charge)White Knuckle with black roof ($695)After Dark with black roof ($695)Destroyer Gray with black roof ($695)Redeye with black roof ($695)Triple Nickel with black roof ($695)Bludicrous with black roof ($695)Green Machine with black roof ($695)Peel Out with black roof ($795)Sub-Zero ($795)In addition to the new color, Dodge recently added several other personalization options for the Charger. These include Fratzog dual stripes, a Satin Black hood graphic (SixPack models), and a Gloss Black painted hood (Charger Daytona Scat Pack). Related: I Drove the 2026 Dodge Charger R/T: An Honest First-Drive Review of Dodge’s Twin-Turbo Muscle Sedan How Much Is A Fully Loaded Charger? Dodge Using the 2026 Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack 4-Door as a base, we added every available option in the configurator. That includes the $4,495 Track Package, which adds a widebody competition suspension, a performance spoiler, red brake calipers, a Drive Experience Recorder, and more. This electric Charger variant starts at $66,990, but all the options added another $14,010 to the MSRP. A destination charge of $1,995 is applicable, too, giving us a final price of $82,995. That’s not cheap, but you also won’t find a full-size sedan at the same price point that will keep up with the 670-horsepower electric Dodge in a straight line. If you can’t stretch to the EV, you can pick up a base two-door Charger with a 420-hp six-pot for under $50k—that's still a lot more than the older Challenger, though. With ample performance from the gas or electric models, desirable customization options, and more amenities than its predecessor, the 2026 Charger is a great muscle car. View the full article

Renault Wants to Make Small Cars Cool AgainRising vehicle prices are pushing many entry-level buyers out of the new car market. Studies show consumers are increasingly reconsidering whether they really need larger, more expensive vehicles. At the same time, traditional low-cost “econoboxes” have fallen out of favor, as buyers now expect style, technology, and practicality even in smaller vehicles. This shift has created a growing interest in compact models that deliver value without feeling cheap. Downsizing is becoming a practical solution for buyers who want lower costs but still expect versatility and personality from their vehicles. While the trend is gaining traction in markets such as North America, brands like Renault have long specialized in affordable global vehicles. That experience is now shaping the Renault Bridger Concept, a compact SUV designed to combine practicality, rugged styling, and accessibility. Renault Renault Bridger Concept Previews A New Global Compact SUVThe Renault Bridger Concept was unveiled as part of the brand’s futuREady strategic plan, which outlines Renault’s growth and electrification strategy through 2030. As part of that roadmap, Renault plans to introduce 14 new international models, expand its electrified lineup, and strengthen its presence in markets outside Europe. The Bridger Concept previews a future B-segment SUV that will be built in India for both domestic buyers and export markets. Production is expected before the end of 2027. Renault sees India as a key production hub, and the Bridger will play an important role in its plan to expand global sales. Renault View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Rugged Design In A Compact FootprintMuch like the globally popular Suzuki Jimny and its simple two-box shape, the Bridger Concept embraces a more traditional off-road aesthetic. Squared wheel arches, an upright stance, and bold body lines give the compact SUV a surprisingly rugged presence. The concept sits on 18-inch wheels with 7.8 inches of ground clearance, reinforcing its rugged character. Details such as the tailgate-mounted spare wheel, illuminated Renault lettering on the grille, and sculpted front fascia further emphasize its adventurous styling. Finished in Beige Dune Satin, the Bridger blends rugged proportions with a clean, modern design. Renault View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Surprisingly Spacious InteriorRenault has not yet released images of the Bridger Concept’s interior, but the company says the compact SUV will place a strong emphasis on passenger space. According to Renault, rear occupants will benefit from 7.8 inches of knee room, which it claims sets a new benchmark for the segment. Cargo capacity is also expected to be a highlight, with around 14 cubic feet of boot space, putting it on par with some larger compact SUVs. An elevated driving position should also provide better road visibility and the commanding feel many buyers expect from an SUV. Will We See it Here?The production Renault Bridger will follow the brand’s multi-energy strategy, allowing it to support combustion, hybrid, and fully electric powertrains depending on the market. Built on the RGMP small modular platform, the compact SUV is designed to adapt to regions transitioning toward electrification at different speeds while still offering affordable mobility. While Renault itself hasn’t sold cars in the United States since 1987, the odds of its technology, or even models influenced by it, reaching American roads are slim to none, but aren’t entirely zero. The company remains closely tied to Nissan and Mitsubishi through the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, and its performance brand Alpine is reportedly exploring a future U.S. launch. With small SUVs continuing to gain popularity worldwide, vehicles like the Bridger highlight the kind of smart, value-focused design that could eventually resonate far beyond Renault’s traditional markets. Renault View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A new report claims that Nissan is in final negotiations with Uber Technologies as the pair discuss working together on the deployment of autonomous vehicles for ride-hailing services, a market that Tesla wants to dominate with its Cybercab. According to Automotive News, Nissan is collaborating with Wayve Technologies—Uber has invested in Wayve AI—on artificial intelligence-powered self-driving tech. The news was first brought to light by Nikkei Asia, and it could be a big deal for Nissan, which has been facing financial troubles and dealing with a failed merger with Honda, as the autonomous vehicle market could expand to the tune of $2 trillion by 2030. If successful, the self-driving tech could even come to many of the vehicles Nissan sells here in the U.S. Nissan Wants a Slice of the Autonomous Driving Pie Getty According to the report, Nissan and Wayve intend to launch vehicles equipped with next-generation ProPilot hands-free autonomous driving technology during the 2027 fiscal year, which means North America and Japan could benefit by early 2028. The tech is expected to be compatible with several of Nissan USA's most popular models, including the Armada, the Pathfinder, and the Rogue, covering the full-size, midsize, and compact segments, respectively. This widespread proliferation would be especially useful since today's Level 2 ProPilot tech is very similar to Tesla's misleadingly branded Full Self-Driving system, requiring the driver to focus on the road and be ready to take over control of the vehicle, and the more the neural network is trained in the real world, the better the tech can become. Related: BMW, Hyundai, and Nissan Top the 2026 World Car Awards If things work out with Uber, Nissan's tech would benefit from being integrated with a massive fleet of ride-hailing vehicles, thus expanding the training of the neural network quickly, rather than relying on customers to adopt the technology. That said, Nissan's benefits would be relatively limited, since Uber has partnerships with other automakers, including Lucid Motors, whose Gravity was exhibited with a roof-mounted sensor array (like those seen on Waymo Jaguar I-Pace vehicles) at the Consumer Electronics Show in January. Why Nissan's Potential Deal with Uber Matters to American Consumers Nissan Nissan has several good products—its Leaf just took top honors in the Women's Worldwide Car of the Year awards— but its existence in the post-Carlos Ghosn era has been fraught with financial challenges, and they're not lessening in 2026; a data breach recently cost Nissan $1.5 million, and it's been forced to cut costs and jobs worldwide. The automaker has also been lagging in the EV race, and it may need Honda's help to find an edge in the hybrid space. But if it can be at the cutting edge of autonomous driving technology thanks to a partnership with Uber, that profitable market could provide access to millions or even billions of dollars, money that could be used to regain its footing and develop exciting new products. With some extra cash, a new GT-R or Silvia could even be worth investing in to give the automaker both a halo and an attainable sports car, boosting brand cache. View the full article