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When AWD Suddenly Isn’t AWDAll-wheel drive is one of those features you don’t really think about – until you need it. Outside of rally racing, it’s all about keeping your car planted when the weather turns bad. In places where snow, rain, or slick roads are part of daily life, plenty of buyers are happy to pay extra for the peace of mind that comes with AWD. But what if that extra peace of mind quietly disappears when you need it most? That’s exactly the question at the heart of a new federal investigation into Acura. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is now looking into reports that some Acura models can lose their all-wheel-drive function without warning. The probe focuses on certain model years of the Acura TLX sedan and MDX SUV, both equipped with Acura’s AWD system. The issue isn’t total loss of power – the cars keep moving – but they can suddenly switch to front-wheel drive, which could catch drivers off guard in less-than-ideal road conditions. What the Investigation Says So FarAccording to the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) report, the probe involves an estimated 137,329 vehicles, specifically the 2021–2023 Acura TLX and the 2022–2023 Acura MDX. At the core of the problem is a mechanical link between the transmission and the rear wheels. The NHTSA says the splines that connect these parts can fail, cutting off power to the rear axle. When that happens, the car is basically running as a front-wheel-drive model, even if the badge (and price tag) says AWD. The petition that kicked off the investigation argues that this failure could make it harder to control the car in certain situations. So far, regulators are looking at 48 complaints sent to the NHTSA about similar issues. The good news: there haven’t been any crashes, injuries, or deaths linked to the problem yet. Right now, the case is still in the early review stage. Regulators are deciding if the problem is serious enough to dig deeper or take further action. What Happens NextFor now, the investigation remains in its early stages. Regulators will review the complaints and conduct a technical assessment before deciding whether to proceed with a formal defect investigation or deny the petition. It’s also tough to say if 48 complaints really show how big the problem is. That’s a tiny slice out of more than 137,000 vehicles, but regulators usually look at more than just the numbers when it comes to safety. There’s another twist: one of the models under investigation, the Acura TLX sedan, has already been discontinued. That closes the book on Acura’s long-running midsize luxury sedan. The other vehicle in the investigation remains a cornerstone of the brand’s lineup. The Acura MDX, despite a 17.3 percent sales drop in 2025 compared to 2024, still led Acura’s US sales with 41,460 units sold last year. As the brand’s best-selling model, it naturally accounts for a large portion of the vehicles potentially affected by the probe. Will this end in a recall? Too early to tell. For now, regulators are still figuring out if these AWD failures are rare flukes or signs of a bigger issue. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The EV Price GapThe need for affordable electric vehicle options has become even more apparent after the $7,500 EV tax credit ended in September 2025. The low-cost Tesla Model 3 introduced last year already starts at about $37,000. Ford has also acknowledged losing billions on its EV business, a factor that helped drive its broader EV strategy reset, including the decision to discontinue the F-150 Lightning. Chevrolet, meanwhile, is addressing that need with the 2027 Bolt EV, which is deemed the most affordable electric car in America. Despite the high cost of components such as the high-voltage battery and the need to recoup development expenses, the Bowtie brand has managed to keep the starting price at $28,995, undercutting the Nissan Leaf. Jeremy Short, chief engineer for the returning EV, explained how the company managed to achieve such a feat — and interestingly, it didn’t take the usual route of cost-cutting. General Motors The Parts-Bin AdvantageInstead, Chevrolet leveraged technologies already available within General Motors, the parent company of brands like Buick, Cadillac, and GMC. For instance, the 2027 Bolt offers an 11-inch diagonal driver display and an 11.3-inch diagonal touchscreen, both larger than those in its predecessor. However, because these components are sourced from GM’s midsize trucks, Chevy was able to save on costs. As for the electric powertrain, the Bolt EV uses the same motors and components as its larger electric compact crossover sibling, the Equinox EV. For the 2027 model, however, GM adopted a new battery cell chemistry — lithium iron phosphate (LFP) — marking its first LFP application in North America, according to Short. The EV has an EPA-rated range of 262 miles and can charge from 10 to 80 percent in about 25 minutes using a NACS charging port. Chevrolet Doing More With LessGM describes this approach as a way to “have its cake and eat it too.” “The Bolt has a pretty well-defined customer,” Short says. “Trying to sell them something else isn’t necessarily what they’re looking for. This is the best car for their money and the best car for their lifestyle. It does everything they want at the price they want.” While the 2027 Bolt EV is currently one of the few affordable electric options, more automakers are expected to join the fray. One of them is Ford, which has vowed to introduce a new electric pickup truck priced at $30,000. Slate Auto, an EV startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has also signaled plans for an electric truck in the mid-$20,000 range. Chevrolet View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Five Cylinders, Five DecadesFifty years ago, Audi changed the sound of performance. In 1976, the second-generation Audi 100 debuted with an inline five-cylinder, an unusual configuration that slotted between the refinement of a straight-six and the compactness of a four-cylinder. Nobody could have predicted that this pragmatic compromise would become one of the most emotionally resonant powertrains in motorsport history. Today, Audi Sport is marking that anniversary the only way that makes sense: with 750 examples of the RS 3 competition limited, a special edition that wears its heritage as loudly as it sounds. The five-cylinder was cemented not in a boardroom, but on the stages of the World Rally Championship. In 1983, the Audi Sport quattro running a turbocharged evolution of that same basic architecture produced 306 horsepower from just 2.1 liters, rewriting what a rally car could be. Its distinctive five-pot bark became the sound of dominance. When the Audi RS2 Avant arrived in 1994 as the first proper RS model, it brought the five-cylinder engine into road-car folklore. The RS 3 competition limited pays homage to both, and it does so with a depth of detail that enthusiasts will appreciate. 394 Horsepower of Pure CharacterThe headline numbers are familiar but no less impressive: the 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five produces 394 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, enough to dispatch 0–60 mph in around 3.5 seconds on the way to a 180 mph top speed. But what makes this engine special has never been about raw output; it's about character. The firing order of 1-2-4-5-3, igniting cylinders in an alternating pattern of adjacent and non-adjacent pairs, creates that unmistakable offbeat warble that no six-cylinder or four-cylinder can replicate. Audi has amplified the sound by reducing firewall insulation, channeling the exhaust note directly into the cabin, and by using an RS sports exhaust system whose flaps open earlier in dynamic drive modes. Audi The nods to that firing order run throughout the car, rewarding the attentive. The darkened matrix LED headlights illuminate their segments in a 1-2-4-5-3 sequence when locking or unlocking, a subtle engineering wink that owners will never tire of explaining to passengers. The Most Track-Ready RS 3 Ever BuiltDynamically, this is the most serious RS 3 Audi has built. For the first time on the RS 3, a coilover suspension has been developed specifically for this model, featuring three-way adjustable damping — separate high-speed compression, low-speed compression, and rebound — with 15, 12, and 16 steps of adjustment, respectively. A setup manual and tools are included. The rear stabilizer stiffness has been increased to 85 N/mm, with spring rates raised to 80 N/mm to match, working in concert with the torque splitter's fully variable rear torque distribution and standard ceramic brakes to create a chassis that can genuinely be dialed in for track use. Audi Malachite Green and Matte CarbonVisually, the competition limited makes its intentions clear before you even start it. The Malachite green paint, exclusive to this model, is a direct callback to the Audi Sport quattro's iconic livery. Carbon canards stack at each front corner, a split front lip widens the visual stance, and 19-inch wheels in Neodymium gold matte fill the arches with authority. Inside, that same gold threads through the Dinamica microfiber seat centers, armrests, and seatbelts, contrasting against black leather and Ginger white stitching. The digital instrument cluster references the white-dialed instruments of the 1994 RS2 Avant. Every detail tells a story. Audi The Price of a Half-CenturyPricing for the German market starts at €108,365 for the Sportback and €110,005 for the Sedan, with European deliveries beginning mid-2026. All 750 examples are pre-specified, and each carries a consecutive serial number on the center console. In an era where electrification is rapidly reshaping what performance cars sound and feel like, Audi has built something that feels genuinely valedictory, a proper send-off for an engine configuration that helped define an era. Whether or not this is the last great five-cylinder RS, the competition limited makes sure it won't be forgotten. View the full article

Chrysler Opens Orders for the 2027 PacificaChrysler said that the Pacifica would get another update, and now it’s here. Orders are open for the 2027 Pacifica, and we finally get a look at the new design and pricing. The changes this year are mostly about updated looks and a few tweaks underneath, but the real story is how the Pacifica now compares to its rivals. It’s still one of the most familiar names in the minivan world, but the competition has caught up. The Kia Carnival is the main challenger here, gaining ground with its SUV-inspired design, flexible cabin, and hybrid option. Now that Chrysler has revealed Pacifica’s new pricing, it’s easier to see how the two stack up. Chrysler What’s New for the 2027 Model YearFor 2027, the Pacifica gets a mid-cycle refresh with some design tweaks, new interior materials, and more tech. Higher trims get a new front end with vertical LED headlights and an illuminated grille that uses a “piano key” lighting pattern. Inside, there are new materials and finishes across the board. The top Pinnacle trim now gets an exclusive Blue Agave interior, plus copper alloy accents and updated trim pieces. Every Pacifica now comes with an adjustable-height power liftgate. The Safety Sphere package also adds some useful features, like blind spot camera views that activate with the turn signal and cameras that work with the ParkSense system. Chrysler is also rolling out the Pacifica LX, which replaces the Voyager as the entry-level model. It keeps the old exterior look while adding standard features such as power-sliding doors, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. Comparing 2026 and 2027 Pacifica FWD pricing, the base price is up a bit, but higher trims actually cost less than before. All-wheel drive is still extra on the upper trims. Still, the real competition isn’t last year’s Pacifica – it’s the other minivans on the market. Trim 2026 Pacifica (FWD) 2027 Pacifica (FWD) Base $41,395 (Voyager) $41,495 (LX) Select $44,445 $44,545 Limited $50,100 $49,705 Pinnacle $56,590 $54,910 Chrysler The Kia Carnival Still Looks AttractiveEven with these changes, Pacifica’s pricing gives competitors room to undercut it. Despite getting pricier for the 2026 model year, the Kia Carnival starts at $37,390 for the gas model, which is already well below the Pacifica’s new base price of $41,495. The gap gets even more interesting once you factor in the Carnival Hybrid, which starts at $41,390 – meaning you can get a hybrid for less than the entry-level, non-hybrid Pacifica. That lower starting price for an electrified model gives the Carnival a real advantage, especially now that fuel efficiency and running costs matter more than ever for families. The Pacifica still has some tricks up its sleeve, like the Stow ’n Go seating that lets you fold the second and third rows flat into the floor. If you need maximum cargo space, that’s still a big plus. But with the new Pacifica priced above the Carnival and no hybrid at a similar price, it looks like Kia’s minivan will keep winning over buyers who are watching their budgets. Chrysler/Facebook View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Slate’s Leadership ResetWith Slate Auto nearing the debut of its all-electric vehicle, the startup has appointed Peter Faricy as its new Chief Executive Officer. According to Newsweek, Chris Barman, who served as CEO when the brand launched in 2022, remains with the company and moves into the role of president of vehicles. Faricy has worked at several companies, including Ford, early in his career. However, his most notable stint was at Amazon, where he spent 13 years, first as vice president of music and movies and later as vice president of Amazon Marketplace. For context, Slate is backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who is a key investor in bringing affordable EVs to the market. Meanwhile, as president of vehicles, Barman — who previously worked at Chrysler — now oversees manufacturing, engineering, and design. Slate Inside Slate’s Big IdeaSlate co-founder William Barker told the publication, “Slate was built with an obsessive, heads-down focus on reinventing the vehicle by rethinking the product from the ground up.” Barker also commended the new CEO, adding, “He is a pioneer of marketplace businesses and a highly strategic leader, and his experience will help us build not just a great vehicle, but a great long-term company.” The brand aims to introduce an all-electric truck priced in the mid-$20,000 range. That would undercut some of the most affordable EVs in the U.S., including the Nissan Leaf and the new Chevrolet Bolt EV. The pricing was even more attractive when the $7,500 EV tax credit was still in place, with the company previously touting a sub-$20,000 EV. The incentive ended in September 2025, a change that has had a significant impact on the broader EV market. Slate Auto The Affordable Electric Truck RaceAside from regulatory challenges, Slate will also face competition from brands like Ford, with the Blue Oval aiming to build an all-electric pickup priced at around $30,000. While Slate’s upcoming EV may be more affordable based on currently available information, Ford is a far more established brand, which could make it difficult for the startup to compete. What we know for now is that Slate EVs — scheduled to launch later this year — will be produced at a former printing facility in Warsaw, Indiana. The vehicles will feature several stripped-down elements to help achieve the affordable price target, including manual windows and the absence of the large screens that have become common selling points in today’s EVs. Slate Auto View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The fully electric Porsche Cayenne went into production earlier this month, and now the German automaker has revealed an even more potent version, the Cayenne S Electric. This model sits between the base Cayenne Electric (402 horsepower) and the ballistic Cayenne Turbo Electric (844 hp)—with 536 hp, the Cayenne S Electric may just be the pick of the bunch. Not only is it extremely quick, but the Cayenne S Electric benefits from the same fast charging as the other variants of the SUV. It’s also priced comfortably below the Turbo, which can exceed $250,000 when fully loaded. Related: 2026 Porsche Cayenne Turbo EV: Exclusive First Look at the Most Powerful Production Porsche Ever Dual Motors and Equipment From The Turbo Porsche Cayenne S Electric Porsche View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Standard permanent magnet synchronous motors on each axle combine for 536 hp, but with Launch Control, the new Cayenne S Electric produces 657 hp. All-wheel drive is standard, which helps this Cayenne accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.6 seconds. That’s easily quicker than the base Cayenne Electric (4.5 seconds) but doesn’t encroach on the mighty Turbo (2.4 seconds). The top speed of the three trims is 143, 155, and 162 mph, respectively, as long as they’re equipped with summer tires. Here’s how the three trims match up in terms of price: Cayenne Electric: $109,000Cayenne S Electric: $126,300Cayenne Turbo Electric: $163,000As with the other two trims, the Cayenne S Electric has a 113-kWh battery. It supports charging speeds of up to 400 kW, which can replenish the battery from 10 to 80% in under 16 minutes. Porsche claims a range of 653 kilometers (around 405 miles) on the WLTP cycle, which should translate into around 350 miles on the more realistic EPA cycle. Like the Turbo, the S features direct oil cooling for the rear electric motor. It can also be fitted with equipment previously limited to the Turbo, like the Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus system. The Porsche Active Ride suspension and Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake system are also available. In case the standard 536 hp isn’t enough to overtake slower traffic, the optional Sport Chrono Package with the Push-to-Pass function releases another 120 hp in 10-second bursts. Extensive Customization Available Porsche Cayenne S Electric Porsche View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article As with the other two Cayenne Electric SUVs, the Cayenne S can be customized down to the smallest details. A new Interior Style Package includes two-tone leather in black/Delgada Green with deviated stitching, Comfort Seats with 14-way power adjustment, and a lot more. This option alone will cost you $13,680. 21-inch Aero Design wheels are standard, but there are a variety of wheel upgrades, including 22-inch alternatives. Porsche charges a fortune for options like ventilated front seats ($960), ceramic brakes ($9,950), and a Burmester 3D sound system ($7,380), but these prices come as no surprise. With all the option boxes ticked, the Cayenne S will fly past the $200k mark. Cayenne S Electric Rivals 2026 BMW iX M70 BM View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The new Porsche Cayenne S Electric is more expensive than any of its natural rivals. BMW’s iX M70 makes 650 hp and has the same 3.6-second 0-60 time, but costs only $111,500. Even with all the options ticked, it won’t get close to the Porsche’s base price. However, the range of 303 miles may fall short of the Cayenne’s EPA rating, when that information is released. At $97,400, the Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV looks like an even bigger bargain next to the Porsche. With 617 hp, it’s quicker (0-60 in 3.4 seconds), but the all-electric range is poor at just 230 miles. As with the BMW, every Mercedes option still won’t get you close to the Porsche’s base price. Will these cheaper rivals deter Porsche fans from the Cayenne S Electric? It’s unlikely. Followers of the brand are used to paying a premium for the elevated driving experience of its models, and the latest Cayenne S is no exception. View the full article

When it looked like the whole world would be enthusiastically driving all-electric vehicles by the end of the decade, it made sense for Porsche to introduce the Taycan EV as a complement to its combustion-powered Panamera, but that outlook has changed. Not only are gas-powered cars still immensely popular and the Chinese building EVs that beat just about anything European and American automakers can offer, but Porsche has been facing challenges in Asia and the rest of the world, with the automaker admitting that its business model no longer works. The solution may be to consolidate the gas and electric sedans into one product, reports Autocar. We've seen this page of the playbook before. New Proposals to Save Money at Porsche Porsche New Porsche CEO Michael Leiters has reportedly proposed unifying gas, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric sedans under a single new model line. Developing vehicles exclusively for electric powertrains is eating into profitability, and the publication's sources have indicated that the German automaker is "exploring greater part sharing and the possibility of a common identity, even if successor versions continue to use different platforms." What this means is that Porsche may scrap both the Taycan and Panamera names to introduce a single new nomenclature, albeit with gas and EV variants still being produced on their own platforms. Alternatively, Porsche may keep one of the model names alive but offer the chosen nameplate in two configurations, each with unique underpinnings. It would be a similar strategy to that employed with the Cayenne, for example, which is now offered as a 1,139-horsepower EV while the combustion-powered Cayenne continues to exist. Why Merging Porsche's Taycan and Panamera Makes Sense Porsche View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The two executive sedans are already very similar in size, with the gas Panamera's wheelbase measuring 116.1 inches in length and the electric Taycan's just two inches shorter. This slight difference would not immediately be apparent to buyers inspecting each option on the dealer floor, and offering two powertrain types under one name makes styling and marketing easier, giving buyers a less confusing choice while saving Porsche money across multiple departments, something Stuttgart needs right now. This is also why the Mercedes EQS has been canned in favor of a new electric S-Class; buyers exploring EVs for the first time would appreciate the familiarity of a typically gas-powered nameplate they've come to know and trust. The alternative could be to permanently ax either Taycan or Panamera, and after the whole Macan fiasco, that's a risk not worth taking. For those not in the know, Porsche canceled the gas Macan in favor of an EV, only to discover that buyers of its best-seller were not pleased, forcing the development of a new gas crossover that won't wear the Macan badge. Related: Audi CEO Says Porsche's Support for Electric TT Project Is "Not in Question" View the full article

It sounds like something out of science fiction, but the idea of a turbine jet engine in a mainstream production car is not new. In fact, the Wikipedia page for cars powered by aircraft engines has well over a dozen entries, and Subaru may someday soon be its latest entry. According to a publication filed with the World Intellectual Property Office, Subaru has patented an electric power system and startup control method for a turbine engine that could be used in an everyday car. What's more, this isn't the first time Subaru has done this, with an earlier patent from last year describing a turbine engine, or jet engine, being used to extend range in an electric vehicle. Subaru's Two Jet Engine Patents Are for EVs Subaru The first of the two patents, both of which were first brought to wider attention by CarBuzz, indicated that using a turbine as a steady-state generator could be considerably more efficient than what immediately comes to mind when the idea of a jet-powered car is mentioned, a jet engine being used for direct propulsion. In that first patent, Subaru explored how to start the jet engine more quickly to avoid the long spool-up time. Solving that, the turbine could theoretically be used to generate electricity more easily, and the whole purpose of the concept is to feed an extended-range EV (EREV) in a more efficient manner than a traditional gas combustion engine. The second patent addresses a different problem: what happens if the turbine loses power and can't start up as quickly as desired, but is still necessary for the generation of electricity. Related: Next Subaru WRX Could Lose What Made It Famous According to the filing, Subaru's invention could work in a somewhat symbiotic manner. If the EREV's high-voltage battery is capable of driving the vehicle at full throttle, that means there's enough energy to use the electric motor-generator to spin up the turbine quickly, and if not, the turbine would be capable of being started using the regular 12-volt battery without draining it. In a nutshell, when the high-voltage battery is low, the 12V battery could be used to slowly start up the turbine, and when the high-voltage battery has enough juice to run the car at full power, that would start up the turbine fast. Subaru's Invention Has Benefits and Drawbacks Subaru While aircraft turbines use compressed air to spin up to speed and start running, Subaru's patent would use the existing electric motor in the EREV, making the package simpler. The turbine would naturally be much smaller and lighter, so the 12V battery could achieve the turbine's target speed with relative ease, but there are obvious drawbacks, not least of which is yet more weight, albeit a relatively small amount, something EVs of all sorts can do without. And unlike aircraft turbines that can be bump-started if there's enough air flowing through them to spin the compressor blades, if the hypothetical "jet-powered" Subaru EREV is completely out of juice, the only way to get it going again would be by plugging it in. There's also the issue of noise—the patent suggests spinning the turbine at 20,000 rpm when being started by the 12V battery and 25,000 rpm with the HV battery—but given its relatively small size, Subaru would likely be able to insulate it fairly well, and if these drawbacks can be overcome, this could be a highly efficient way of generating electricity for an EREV. As a patent, this idea has a 50/50 chance of reaching production, but it could be a real attention-grabber for the future of the STI nameplate. Either it will or it won't. Related: Subaru Wants to Put a Real Clutch Pedal in an Electric Car View the full article

EV Market Momentum Begins to Cool in 2026The electric vehicle industry continues to face a period of recalibration, and the latest sign comes from SK Battery America’s manufacturing facility in Commerce, Georgia. The South Korean battery supplier laid off 958 employees, that's about 37% of its workforce at the $2.6 billion plant that opened in 2022. While the facility will continue operating with roughly 1,600 workers, the layoffs underscore the shifting dynamics of the EV market as automakers rethink their electrification timelines. The plant was a key supplier for the Ford F-150 Lightning, but Ford’s decision to cancel the fully electric version of the pickup in favor of an extended-range alternative reflects a broader industry trend. Late last year, Ford CEO Jim Farley rang the alarm bells that something like this might happen if demand slows due to the removal of EV credits and other factors. EV demand is still growing, but far more slowly than manufacturers once projected. Combined with changing federal policy and the removal of consumer EV incentives, the market environment has become far less predictable for battery makers and automakers alike. Photograph by Erik Unger Demand for EVs Has Started to Wane in 2026Recent industry research suggests consumer enthusiasm for EVs is softening compared with the aggressive expectations set earlier in the decade. A new study highlighted by Autoblog points to a significant shift in buyer sentiment, with more consumers reconsidering whether an EV fits their lifestyle. Range anxiety, charging infrastructure limitations, and higher upfront costs remain key concerns. While early adopters drove rapid EV growth in the early 2020s, the next wave of buyers appears more cautious. This hesitation has created a plateau in market penetration, with EVs accounting for roughly 8% of U.S. new vehicle sales in 2025, essentially unchanged from the previous year. For suppliers like SK Battery America, this slower demand directly affects production volumes. Battery plants were built to support aggressive EV rollouts that many automakers have now delayed, leaving parts of the supply chain temporarily oversized for current demand. Automakers Are Scaling Back EV InvestmentsThe cooling market has triggered a series of strategic pullbacks across the automotive industry. Some manufacturers have reduced their raw material commitments; Ford, for instance, recently scaled back a lithium supply agreement amid revised EV production plans. Financial impacts are also becoming clearer. Several major automakers have collectively written off more than $55 billion after overestimating near-term EV demand. These write-downs reflect canceled projects, delayed factories, and investments that will take longer than expected to pay off. In some cases, planned EV models have been scrapped entirely before reaching production. A number of upcoming electric vehicles, ranging from mainstream crossovers to luxury performance models, have quietly disappeared from product roadmaps as companies redirect resources toward hybrids and plug-in hybrids. Ram 1500 BEV R View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Future of EVs Remains UncertainDespite the slowdown, the long-term outlook for electric vehicles remains widely debated. Some analysts argue the industry is simply transitioning into a more realistic growth phase after years of overly optimistic projections from automakers and policymakers. While EV adoption continues, the market is now adjusting to the realities of consumer hesitation, infrastructure limitations, and the financial challenges associated with scaling new technologies. External factors could still shift the trajectory quickly. Rising geopolitical tensions and the possibility of disruptions to global oil supply have raised concerns about future fuel prices. If gasoline costs spike again, electric vehicles could regain momentum faster than expected. For now, layoffs such as those at SK Battery America highlight the growing pains of an industry still searching for the right balance between ambition, infrastructure readiness, and consumer demand. Subaru View the full article

A lawsuit against Ford, relating to allegations of widespread 'death wobble' incidents on the 2005-2007 F-250 and 2017-2019 F-350 Super Duty trucks, is going back to a district court after it went to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, and it seems that plaintiffs may be on the back foot. The seven-year-old lawsuit has changed several times over the years since it began, with the current iteration including only the abovementioned vehicles purchased from dealerships in the states of Arizona, California, Colorado, Illinois, Maine, New Mexico, South Carolina, and Texas, and excluding trucks used for business. The class action was filed by 13 customers who complained that they lost control of their trucks because of defective steering damping systems on the vehicles, but while judgment is yet to be made, it's looking increasingly likely that the plaintiffs will be unsuccessful. What Is 'Death Wobble,' and How Is Ford Implicated? Ford Motor Company A problem commonly associated with certain model years of Jeep Wrangler, the so-called death wobble is what happens when severe shaking of the suspension and steering wheel causes instability, caused by loose or abnormally worn track bar bushings or issues with ball joints, steering dampers, control arms, shock absorbers, and/or struts. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit against Ford claim that this steering "shimmy" (a phenomenon that stops when the vehicle slows down) is one that Ford was aware of before selling the trucks. This is a claim that all lawsuits against automakers make, presuming that the sort of bad judgment made when Ford introduced the ill-fated Pinto is still rampant across the industry today. While judges often tend to agree with that argument, the appeals court did not, with the Ninth Circuit finding that the lower court judge should not have allowed simple general evidence to support claims of pre-sale knowledge of the alleged suspension defects. Lawsuit Against Ford Could Fall Apart Kevin Carter/Getty Images Indeed, the lawsuit appears to be on shaky ground. Initially, it attempted to include a customer from South Carolina as a class representative for Maine. The Ninth Circuit also told the plaintiffs to provide proof of common evidence of the alleged defects, but Ford said that all evidence showed the steering problem "manifested at different rates from year to year across all the platforms encompassed" in the suit. The Ninth Circuit agreed, reversing the certification order and remanding for the court to evaluate whether the variable evidence "is fatal to certification of the putative classes." So what now? Related: Ford Recalls Over 1.7 Million Crossovers and SUVs Across 26 Products The lawsuit will go back to the district court for the judge to reconsider the case (filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California), and given that the appeals court has sided with Ford on several issues, the plaintiffs may be forced to drop the suit or come to a settlement. Again, we must let the courts do their work, but as CarComplaints.com notes, truck owners who provided details of alleged issues after taking delivery of their trucks "do not adequately allege [that] Ford knew of possible problems before the trucks were first sold." With that and the other challenges plaintiffs have faced, this may not be a battle worth fighting any longer. View the full article

Back in 2022, a California-based carbon fiber parts specialist focused on BMWs announced that it was building a wild, one-off pickup based on the M4 Coupe, and the absurd creation made it to SEMA that year, wrapped in blue STEK paint protection film. Since then, it's undergone consistent evolution, and now, in its final form, it's up for sale. The car-based pickup, or ute, was created by DinMann, and it calls the strange truck the M4 Maloo. A passion project and a labor of love, it took plenty of custom work to finalize, and that's reflected in the hefty price. While an M4 Competition with low mileage and loads of options can be had for less than $85,000, the M4 Maloo, or M4LOO, is priced at $145,000 OBO. And no, it hasn't been crashed. $145,000 BMW M4 Ute Comes Loaded with Upgrades dinmanncf/Instagram View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Turning an M4 into a pickup seems the kind of thing you do to make lemonade when you wreck a perfectly good coupe, but that wasn't the case here; DinMann started with a perfectly good M4 Competition and bought it with the sole intention of carving it into the creation you see here. The name Maloo comes from the Aboriginal vernacular, meaning "desert thunder" to native Australians. If it sounds familiar, you may remember that it previously appeared on the Holden Special Vehicles pickup of the same name. Given the name and the way this Bimmer looks, it's a little surprising that it has a Texas plate and isn't from the land Down Under. Inside, the build features carbon fiber-backed BMW M Carbon bucket seats, and if you don't look back at the remarkably capacious and functional bed, everything looks pretty much the same as it would in a regular M4 Competition, besides the half-yoke carbon fiber steering wheel. But that doesn't mean this conversion is otherwise stock. Carbon Fiber and Engine Upgrades Justify Pricing dinmanncf/Instagram View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Pop the hood, and the S58 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six has been dressed in carbon fiber, including an engine cover and a one-of-two Wagner Tuning intake manifold. The build also features upgraded Pure turbochargers and intakes, a GTHaus exhaust system, and an ECU tune that accommodates E85. Power figures have not been listed with the sale post above, but similar builds are known to easily make up to 800 wheel horsepower. For reference, a stock M4 Competition xDrive puts out 503 hp at the crank (at least, that's what BMW claims in its conservative estimate). Further setting the M4LOO apart is the addition of a carbon fiber DinMann front lip, carbon fiber louvered fender vents, carbon fiber side skirt extensions, a tasty set of HRE wheels finished in matte black, and a custom carbon fiber tailgate topped with a carbon lip spoiler. The original taillights have been tinted and are beautifully integrated into the tail end. Related: BMW actually built two M3-based pickup trucks Yes, you could reasonably buy two lightly used M4s for the price of this one, but they won't be nearly as attention-grabbing (or practical) as this one-off. And with the listing accepting offers, you could drive off in this ridiculous M4 pickup for less than the $145,000 asking price. Head over to the Instagram post embedded above to get in contact and make a bid. View the full article

Lancia and RallyingThe long and storied history of Lancia will forever be associated with rallying. While the Italian marque's early days saw it dip its toes in Formula One, it's on the dirt where its motorsports career truly shone. It started with the Stratos, which was essentially a supercar with mudflaps, and its success was carried over by the 037. The 037 fended off the mighty Audi Quattro, becoming the last two-wheel drive car to give its manufacturer a constructor's title in the World Rally Championship's top division. By the time the 037 retired from competition, the Delta had gained a performance derivative. Then, in the final event of the 1985 WRC season, Lancia put it straight to work as the Delta S4. Sadly, a tragic accident in the 1986 Tour de Course took the lives of Henri Toivonen and co-driver Sergio Cresto, eventually leading to the ban of Group B by the end of that year. Lancia continued competing in the WRC under Group A regulations, and the Delta redeemed itself by being the most dominant car from the late-'80s to the early-'90s. The Delta Integrale gave Lancia six straight constructors' titles from 1987 to 1992. Thanks to homologation rules at the time, a road-going version was made, further cementing its legacy outside of motorsports. La A Legend In and Outside of RacingSeveral versions of the Delta Integrale were made over the years. There was the 8-valve model, followed by the 16-valve, Evoluzione, and the rarest and most desirable of them all, the Evoluzione II. As the road cars closely resembled the competition models, it allowed the Average Joe a taste of what the race car was like, and was a huge hit all over Europe. Think Lancer Evolution or WRX STI, but with Italian flair. Inevitably, a good chunk have been modified, abused, or both. Finding a mint one of these days is no easy task, and the few that appear command a premium, especially the Evo and Evo II versions. Lancia A Fine (But Modded) ExampleThat brings us neatly to an auction on Pistonheads right now for an Evo model. From what we've observed, Evo models range from just under $60,000, but never really go beyond $80,000, regardless of stock or modded. For reference, Evo II Delta Integrales can easily reach $100,000. This particular example is on the higher end of the scale with a current list price of £70,000. Converted to U.S dollars, that's a whopping $93,000 at the time of writing, and it's not even totally original. It's been modified to make over 100 hp more than the standard version. Pistonheads Worth its Asking Price?So, what does a $93,000 Delta Integrale Evoluzione get you? It's on forged internals, for starters, along with larger injectors, a larger stainless steel exhaust system, plus a bespoke dyno tune. The seller claims that it puts out 320 horsepower, which is 113 more than the stock model (207 hp). As for the suspension, it rides on Bilstein B6 dampers with the standard springs in place. Mileage is just at 85,283 — low considering its age and the fact that these cars were meant to be driven daily. It's modded, but it's not an all-out crazy build. That said, those who value preservation over originality will likely scoff at it and its asking price. We're pretty sure those mods didn't come cheap either, and its list price sounds like it covers the work done on it. Either way, Over $90,000 for a Delta Integrale Evo is a serious amount of cash, whether stock or modified. In the end, though, it'll be worth what its next owner says. Besides, it's hard to pin down the exact price for an emotional purchase. Pistonheads Pistonheads View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Company Behind It Has Been Doing This for YearsThe UK outfit, Electric Classic Cars, has been quietly converting classics to electric since 2015, turning Volkswagen Beetles, Porsche 911s, and Land Rover Defenders into EVs before most people thought that was even a reasonable thing to do. They've even rewired a Ferrari Testarossa, arguably losing much of what gave it its soul in the process. Now they have their sights on American classics, specifically vintage trucks and 4x4s, and have developed a skateboard chassis that can be installed in almost any garage and fit underneath the body of those classics. A Tesla Drivetrain Hiding Under a Vintage BodyUnderneath, it's all Tesla Model 3. The drivetrain is paired with ATB differentials and puts out up to 530 horsepower, with a claimed 0-60 somewhere south of four seconds. The battery size will depend upon how long your wheel base is – 56 kWh for a build between 90-108 inches, and 82 kWh for a build up to 130 inches. DC fast charging comes standard on both. The suspension is a modern five-point multilink setup with proper performance brakes, so despite looking like something from the ‘60s, it should actually handle like a car built this decade. Electric Classic Cars View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article American Icons Are First in LineECC specifically named the Ford Bronco, F-150, Land Rover Defender, and classic pickups from the ‘50s and ‘60s as the sweet spot for this platform. American restomod shops are already lined up, and ECC plans on shipping the chassis to the US, while noting that this is not a product for serious off-road enthusiasts, considering it's essentially a Tesla underneath. But for someone who wants a truck that looks period-correct but is put off by the “character” that decades-old powertrains and chassis bring, this conversion is a genuinely compelling idea. 1976 Ford F-150 Ford View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Porsche started developing its next-generation 718 Cayman and Boxster electric sports cars in 2019, and it looks like it may still take a while until they reach showrooms. As the automaker backtracked on its electrification commitments due to the EV downturn, reports started to emerge (including from Bloomberg) about the death of the 718 Cayman and Boxster EVs. Porsche did nothing to refute the rumors, and then in mid-February we’ve learned that a top-level meeting had been called to decide the fate of the electric sports cars. Porsche made no official announcement after that reported meeting, but it would appear that a decision was made to keep the all-electric 718 Cayman and Boxster in development. Porsche Australia Boss Says That Development Continues Porsche While an official debut date for the two battery-powered sports cars is yet to be announced, Porsche Cars Australia CEO Daniel Schmollinger last week denied rumors about the project being canceled. He told CarSales that he has already driven the car and described it as being “amazing.” Schmollinger revealed that the 718 EV will retain the mid-engine dynamic that has been a staple of the Boxster and Cayman for two decades. “So I had the chance to drive it on a race track and it was just amazing. A Boxster type of car should give you the weight distribution, a very go karty feeling and it provides that,” he noted. “And with the electric engine, of course, it gives you even more dynamic driving.” The executive wouldn’t comment further on specific details such as performance figures, and when asked whether the upcoming 718 models would also offer combustion engines, he replied that it’s “too early” and “there’s no official announcement.” That said, he did concede that the door remains open to combustion-engine Porsche 718s, noting that “there is opportunity out there.” Schmollinger’s comments strongly suggest the electric 718 Boxster and Cayman remain on track despite earlier speculation about delays and even a possible cancelation. What About the Gas-Powered 718 Sports Cars? Bring a Trailer As reported before, the big question is whether Porsche will rework the EV-only PPE Sport EV platform to accommodate a gas engine, since the architecture has no provisions for a combustion motor, transmission, fuel tank and many other components specific to ICE vehicles. We do know that Porsche stopped taking orders for the current gas-powered 718 models in September in the U.S. and recently pulled both mid-engine sports cars from its online configurator. The most logical thing for Porsche to do if it still wants to sell gas-powered Caymans and Boxsters would be to upgrade the platform of the outgoing models and offer gas-powered 718 sports cars in parallel with the all-electric 718 EVs. But after so much back-and-forth regarding the next-gen 718, predicting what Porsche will do next with its entry-level sports cars has become an expert-level guessing game. We're just hoping the automaker won’t adopt the radical solution of killing its 718 sports cars altogether, as that would be a very sad thing for sports car enthusiasts worldwide. View the full article

Sunday's Cup race at Phoenix featured 12 cautions, matching a record for the series at the Arizona oval. The race featured plenty of drama, cut tires, blown rotors, and an impressive comeback from Ryan Blaney and the #12 Team Penske Ford. Reddick still leads the championship standings, even as his win streak comes to an end. Blaney is now second, 60 points adrift of the lead, with Bubba Wallace ...Keep readingView the full article

The 31st annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance returned on March 7, 2026, at the oceanfront of the Ritz-Carlton at Amelia Island, Florida. The venue blends ocean breezes, the scent of gasoline, and rows of automotive history. This year, organizers shifted the main concours from Sunday to Saturday, trading places with the Cars & Caffeine gathering, but the experience remained pure Amelia. Over 250 historic vehicles competed across more than 35 classes, from pre-war American classics to postwar European sports cars and factory racing machines. Walking the manicured lawns, you could move from a 1930s luxury car with coach built bodywork to a rally-bred icon, a mid-century sports car whose design defined an era, or an ultra-limited hypercar—all in a single glance. Scroll through Autoblog’s live photo gallery to check out our Top 10 highlights from the annual event. Autoblog 1992 Ferrari F40The Ferrari F40 requires no introduction. The last Ferrari to be personally approved by Enzo Ferrari prior to his death in 1987, the F40 was and remains an icon. Therefore, it should come as no surprise to see one of these Pininfarina-penned gems parked at an exclusive show like this. Autoblog View the 1 images of this gallery on the original article This particular example, which was not included in this year’s auction but was proudly on display for the public to enjoy, is a 1992 model that’s part of the Rick Hendrick Collection. It’s #179 of 213 U.S.-spec F40s built; a total of 1,313 were built worldwide. Power comes from a 2.7-liter twin-turbo V8 that’s paired to a five-speed manual. Total weight is a mere 2,425 pounds thanks, in part, to a body composed of Kevlar and Nomex. Autoblog 1965 Shelby Cobra 289The 1963–1965 Shelby Cobra 289 is a legendary fusion of British design and American muscle. Built on a nimble AC Ace chassis and powered by a Ford-sourced 289 V8, it delivered up to 306 horsepower through precise rack-and-pinion steering. Lightweight and brutally quick, this roadster conquered 1960s racetracks, yet only around 463 small-block, leaf-spring examples were ever made, making it a rare thrill for collectors today. Autoblog This fully restored ‘65 example immediately caught our eye because just look at it. That light blue body work is perfectly matched with a stunning red leather interior. And those wire-rimmed wheels? Absolute perfection. Autoblog 1969 Porsche 917KYou know when you’re in the presence of greatness when everyone else around you suddenly goes silent and takes a deep breath. That’s exactly what happened when we came across the 1969 Porsche 917K. Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Yes, it’s THE 917 you thought. This is Steve McQueen’s #20 Porsche 917K that raced on screen in Le Mans and in 1971 competition, later restored to its iconic Gulf blue-and- orange livery, making it one of the most celebrated and collectible race cars of all time. The “King of Cool” also lent his signature on the right side, where the driver sat. Autoblog 1962 Aston Martin DB4 GT ZagatoThis 1962 Aston Martin DB4 GT Zagato — just one of 19 made — pairs a lightweight Zagato aluminum body with a 314-hp inline-six, the iconic double-bubble roof, and race- bred performance, making it one of the world’s most coveted classics. Even though this one is not currently for sale, another similar example sold at auction for over $14 million back in 2015. Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article 1985 Renault R5 Turbo 2A legendary French Group B rally homologation car, the R5 Turbo 2 features a mid- mounted 1.4L turbo engine, rear-wheel drive, and a 5-speed manual, delivering raw, sub-7-second 0-60 mph performance. Autoblog Its aggressive wide-body design, massive rear fender flares, and iconic ‘80s styling make it a true standout. It’s simply impossible to ignore and a true privilege to see in the flesh. Autoblog 2008 Harmon Splinter Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Joe Harmon from Davidson, North Carolina, turned heads with his one-of-a-kind Harmon Splinter—yes, it’s made entirely of wood. No joke. More precisely, a woven cherry veneer and a balsa wood core. Autoblog Originally his master’s thesis at North Carolina State University, this handcrafted marvel is even more stunning and mind-blowing in person. The attention to detail inside and out is next level. And yes, it actually runs thanks to a mid-mounted 7.0-liter LS7 V8 engine with up to 650 horsepower paired to a six-speed manual. Autoblog 2021 Lamborghini Essenza SCV12This track-only hypercar is pure adrenaline on wheels. With a naturally aspirated V12 engine and aggressive aerodynamics, the Essenza SCV12 delivers blistering speed and razor-sharp handling. Every angle—from its sculpted body lines to its low, and seriously menacing stance—screams precision engineering and Italian flair. Autoblog Just 40 examples were made, each equipped with a 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 that’s good for 819 horsepower. Although this example was not for sale (at least, not yet), it carries an estimated value of around $1.5 million. Autoblog 1966 Ford GT40 MKIIWere we surprised to see an original Ford GT40 at Amelia Island? Not at all. Built to conquer endurance racing, the GT40 Mk II is the car that helped Ford Motor Company defeat Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. Powered by a 7.0-liter V8 and wrapped in a low, aerodynamic body, this American racing icon combined brute force with sleek design. Autoblog No. 7 was driven by Graham Hill and co-driver Brian Muir on June 19, 1966. The car qualified sixth but ultimately retired before it could finish the grueling race. 1935 Auburn 851 Supercharged SpeedsterWe certainly will never forget the moment we laid our eyes on this under the hot Florida sun. Could anyone? Long, low, and unmistakably Art Deco, the Auburn 851 Supercharged Speedster was one of the most dramatic American cars of the 1930s. Built by Auburn Automobile Company and styled under Gordon Buehrig, it featured sweeping pontoon fenders, dramatic side exhaust pipes, and a supercharged straight- eight capable of topping 100 mph, which was truly an astonishing claim (at the time). Autoblog 1983 Ferrari 288 GTOThe Ferrari 288 GTO was built as a homologation special for Group B racing, pairing exotic engineering with unmistakable Italian style. It greeted visitors as people entered the main lawn. Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Its twin-turbocharged 2.8-liter V8 produces around 400 horsepower, sent to the rear wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission. Lightweight composite body panels, aggressive vents, and a wide stance helped this rare supercar rocket to a top speed of roughly 189 mph, making it one of the fastest road cars of the 1980s. Autoblog Autoblog View the full article

The Need for Speed Takes a New TurnNeed for Speed should sound pretty familiar to readers of this website; some might remember the BMW M3 GTR from the video gameNeed for Speed: Most Wanted, while others may think of the 2014 film Need for Speed, which featured the S197 Ford Mustang with twin blue stripes. Now, the NFS name is making a return, though this time, it has nothing to do with street racing. U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced the Need for Speed Act, a new bill aimed at improving traffic management, particularly during emergencies. The proposal would develop a national infrastructure intelligence tool to enhance interstate coordination and keep traffic moving by identifying bottlenecks and other roadway obstacles. Photo by Kevin Carter on Getty Images A Disaster That Slowed the SystemSenator Cornyn highlighted the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, in March 2024, when a container ship struck the bridge, forcing vehicles to reroute and causing heavy congestion on nearby roads. The collapse also affected trucking and freight movement and strained supply chains, with the senator saying it “disrupted millions of dollars in trade and travel.” He added, “This legislation would empower the Department of Transportation to develop a national intelligence tool that will boost interstate coordination, ease congestion, and improve roadway safety.” The national infrastructure intelligence tool would integrate data into a single platform, enabling the USDOT, states, and local agencies to coordinate more effectively during emergencies. The bill also aims to strengthen national security and improve U.S. competitiveness. Getty Images Turning Data Into Traffic SolutionsSome of the datasets the tool would use include highway performance monitoring systems, commodity data, truck parking demand, and urban congestion reporting. While the use of “Need for Speed” in this case may not be as high-octane as heavily modified street cars, it could help reduce losses caused by traffic congestion. However, the proposal may also have downsides, including the cost and government spending required to build new software platforms. It could also limit states’ flexibility in managing infrastructure decisions and raise privacy and cybersecurity concerns, especially since the platform would centralize large amounts of data. Nevertheless, the bill also reflects a broader push toward modern, data-driven transportation technologies. Separate proposals have even explored a “kill switch” that could detect driver intoxication and prevent a vehicle from moving. Getty Images View the full article

While most of us were taking the day off to recharge for the new week, Porsche engineers spent Sunday working, and the Autoblog spy photographers were too, catching two pre-production versions of the facelifted Cayenne SUV on camera. Both are E-Hybrid plug-in models, which we know because black tape on the front fenders draws attention to the spot where Porsche places the badge, with one being the regular Cayenne E-Hybrid and the other the stonkingly fast Turbo E-Hybrid. Although the German automaker has already revealed a Cayenne Turbo EV with up to 1,139 horsepower, not everyone is ready to go all-electric just yet, and these models will aim to satisfy them. If previous facelifts of the nameplates are anything to go by, they'll be even more powerful than before, too. Let's take a closer look. 2027 Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid Spied with Subtle Changes SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Instantly recognizable as a Cayenne yet subtly refined to reflect updates underneath the skin, the Turbo E-Hybrid prototype is wearing camouflage on its headlights, but it appears that the shape of the housings won't be changing. Instead, the spy shots suggest that the clusters may get slightly updated housings, with the four-point DRL signature remaining mostly unchanged. Lower down, the turn signal indicators now appear to be straight bars (the current model has a small recess in the middle of each horizontal bar), and these may perform only that function, no longer doubling as additional daytime running light elements. Below these, the horizontal bar dividing the lower side intakes in half is now a two-piece bar, the central intake grille has also been mildly tweaked with gaps between the horizontal bars. Interestingly, we don't see the variable flaps for improving aerydonamic efficiency on this prototype. Altogether, these changes will make the side intakes appear taller and the central intake grille wider. SH Proshots/Autoblog At the back, the taillight graphics may be updated, with dual horizontal DRL elements no longer connected to each other. We also see a small fake mesh insert below the main diffsuer panel, though it's difficult to see clearly what's going on here, thanks to the muck and grime on this development mule. Of course, as a pre-production vehicle, the taillight graphics and other small differences may still change as we get closer to the end of validation testing. Spy shots of the non-Turbo Cayenne E-Hybrid (that's the test vehicle without a quad-exit exhaust, pictured below) reveal similar changes for the entry-level hybrid Porsche. More Power Could Be on the Table for Gas-Powered 2027 Porsche Cayenne SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The last time the Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid was facelifted, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 hybrid setup was boosted by 59 horsepower to result in a combined total of 729 hp, and it's possible a similar bump will occur for this update. That said, the powetrain's tweaks could also remain focused on efficiency as Porsche aims to meet Euro 7 regulations. Then again, a bump in performance could easily be achieved through the electric components, and given that the current U.S. administration is relaxing emissions regulations, Porsche may offer more performance to the American market. Meanwhile, the current Cayenne E-Hybrid and S E-Hybrid offer a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 hybrid powertrain, with the former offering 463 hp and the latter 512 ponies. We expect this version of the Cayenne plug-in hybrid midsize SUV to get a healthy boost, too, but more details will be confirmed in the coming months, with a reveal expected around spring. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The ‘Montana loophole’ is one of the most well-known tactics in the US for avoiding hefty tax payments when registering high-value cars, and is the reason it’s not unusual to see ultra-rare exotica cruising around places like Beverly Hills while wearing plates from the third-least densely populated state in the US. However, California isn’t happy about the loophole, which takes advantage of Montana’s unusually relaxed approach to sales and registration tax, and has just announced charges against 14 individuals alleged to be part of a scheme using the tactic to avoid over $1.8 million worth of taxes on rare exotic cars. What is the Montana Loophole? Getty Every state has its own tax laws, and that includes vehicle sales and registration tax. Montana has some of the most attractive rules in this regard: the state charges no sales tax and no vehicle excise taxes either. To take advantage of this as a private buyer, you have to be a Montana resident, but there’s long been a workaround for people from other parts of the country: establishing a limited liability company (LLC) that’s based in the state, and registering the car to that LLC. This method itself is perfectly within the bounds of the law. Legal issues arise because many states require that cars kept and used there for more than a certain period of time are registered in that state, although enforcement of this has been sporadic. Common in Cali Getty Images California is one of the most common places to see Montana-registered exotics, thanks to its higher proportion of wealthy residents as well as its high taxes – the base rate of registration tax in the state is 7.75% of a car’s value, but further district taxes can push it above 10% in some areas. As a result, following initial action taken by the state last year, the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), as well as the state’s DMV, announced a further crackdown on Friday. It's identified over 2,500 sales from around 500 dealers since 2023 alone that took advantage of the Montana loophole. Unsurprisingly, ultra-wealthy Beverly Hills is at the epicentre, with 416 sales allegedly involved in the investigation. 14 Already Charged McLaren On the same day, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced that the state is bringing charges against 14 people in relation to avoiding taxes on high-end cars. The defendants allegedly “prepared and submitted false CDTFA forms [and] DMV forms… indicating that vehicles were purchased for use outside California,” but which were “delivered, driven and stored within the state.” The vehicles involved are said to total upwards of $20 million in value, with over $1.8 million in taxes avoided through the scheme. Unsurprisingly, there’s some serious metal involved: the Attorney General’s press release makes mention of a McLaren Elva worth $1.8 million, a Porsche 918 Spyder worth $1.5 million and a $1.26 million Ferrari F12tdf. It remains to be seen whether the crackdown will have any noticeable effect on the proliferation of Montana-plated exotics, but in the short term at least, it looks as if wealthy Californians might need to use a little more caution in registering their cars. View the full article

Trails Meet A Legal RoadblockOff-roading, despite being harsh and rough, can be fun and exciting, especially when driving vehicles built for it, like a Jeep Wrangler. However, in California’s Mojave Desert, the Los Angeles Times reports that a federal judge has ordered the closure of roughly 2,000 miles of off-road routes in critical habitat in the western Mojave, citing harm caused by off-road vehicles — technically called off-highway vehicles, or OHVs — to wildlife. To be more specific, OHVs are reportedly threatening the desert tortoise population in the area, with biologist Kristin Berry of the U.S. Geological Survey saying the species’ numbers have dropped by 96 percent in some monitored areas since the 1970s. Among the impacts of this recreational activity are the destruction of burrows where tortoises live and the dumping of trash, which attracts ravens that feed on baby tortoises. MORE Racing/Facebook The Desert Debate Heats UpIt’s still unclear how the Bureau of Land Management plans to enforce the route closures, given how large the area is that federal judge Susan Illston ordered to be closed. The move has drawn criticism from off-road enthusiasts. Some members say they are being unfairly blamed for the tortoise’s decline, with one arguing that the judge “went a little too far.” On the other hand, the closure is a win for environmental groups that have long been in a legal battle to protect wildlife in the area. Lisa Belenky, an attorney for the Center for Biological Diversity, said the recreational activity “is dominating these lands and literally ruining them.” Organized racing events are also held in the region, including those run by M.O.R.E. (Mojave Off-Road Racing Enthusiasts), where vehicles such as modified Volkswagen Beetles known as Baja Bugs compete across the desert terrain. MORE Racing/Facebook A Desert Economy At RiskHowever, not all visitors take part in off-road racing, with some simply camping or hiking in the area. Illston has given the Bureau of Land Management a 2029 deadline to develop new off-road vehicle routes. In the meantime, the closures could also affect businesses in the area that depend on tourism. Business owners from places such as Lucerne Valley, Calico, and Randsburg have expressed concerns over the decision. Aside from off-road enthusiasts, the dispute also reflects a broader, long-running conflict over how the desert should be used, including for recreation, grazing, mining, and military activity. MORE Racing/Facebook View the full article

The Transmission That Many Drivers Love to HateFew parts in a modern car spark as much debate as the continuously variable transmission (CVT). For some, it’s a smart way to squeeze out more efficiency. For others, it’s the most annoying transmission you can get. Most of the complaints come down to how it feels to drive. Instead of fixed gears, a CVT uses a belt or chain between variable pulleys, which can make acceleration feel stretchy and disconnected. But it’s not just about how it drives. The bigger worry is what happens when something goes wrong. Repairs aren’t cheap, and most of the time, a major failure means you’re looking at a full replacement instead of a simple fix. So what actually happens when a CVT gives up? The YouTube channel I Do Cars, usually known for engine autopsies, tried to answer that question by tearing down a TR580 transmission from a 2013 Subaru Outback. Inside the Failed Subaru TransmissionThe teardown started out looking routine, but once the transmission pan dropped, the story changed. The magnet inside the pan was loaded with metal shavings and a few big chunks – clear evidence that something inside had gone very wrong. As the teardown went deeper, the culprit showed itself: the CVT’s chain, the part that actually transfers power between the pulleys, had snapped. In any CVT, that chain or belt is always under heavy stress, constantly shifting to change the gear ratio. When it fails, things go downhill fast. Here, the broken chain sent metal fragments everywhere – scoring the pulleys, contaminating the oil pump, and spreading debris through the rest of the transmission. What’s surprising is that most of the other internals looked fine. The planetary gears, differential, and clutch packs all showed normal wear. It was the chain failure that set off the rest of the damage. Exactly why the chain broke remains uncertain, according to I Do Cars. It could have been fatigue, debris contamination, or an unusual load spike. I Do Cars/YouTube Are CVTs Actually Unreliable?The idea of the CVT itself is not new. Variations of the concept date back centuries, with early designs appearing in sketches attributed to Leonardo da Vinci. Modern automotive CVTs began appearing in production cars in the late 20th century, eventually spreading widely as manufacturers pursued better fuel efficiency and smoother operation. How long a CVT lasts really depends on who built it and how it’s cared for. Some can easily go past 150,000 miles with the right maintenance. But many problems stem from skipped service, especially when manufacturers call the fluid 'lifetime' and owners take it literally. In practice, regular fluid changes are a must. They help cut down on wear and flush out debris before it can do real damage. As with most car tech, it all comes down to design, how you use it, and how you maintain it. When a CVT is healthy, it can be smooth and efficient. But when a key part like the chain lets go, the fallout is anything but subtle. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Scope WidensGeneral Motors has updated service bulletin PIP6101, which addresses an engine ticking noise caused by a manufacturing defect. The revised version, PIP6101A, now includes more 2025–2026 models equipped with the 2.0-liter inline-four LSY turbocharged engine, in addition to the previously listed 2.5-liter LK0 and 2.7-liter L3B power units. This means owners of the Buick Envision, Chevrolet Blazer, and Cadillac CT4, CT5, XT4, XT5, and XT6 may now be affected by the issue. The LSY debuted for the 2019 model year and typically serves as the base engine in these models. However, as noted, the ticking noise is not necessarily an engine design issue, but rather the result of a manufacturing defect. This is also a service bulletin, meaning it is sent by GM to dealers rather than directly to owners, as would typically be the case with a recall. Cadillac What’s Happening Under the Valve CoverThe issue stems from manufacturing debris entering the hydraulic valve lash adjuster, preventing the component from pumping oil properly and resulting in a “soft” adjuster. Without proper hydraulic pressure, the affected engines may produce a ticking noise. Dealers are instructed to use a stethoscope or other methods to inspect the valvetrain first. If technicians find any soft adjusters, all 16 hydraulic valve lash adjusters and 16 valve rocker arms must be replaced. GM said the repair falls under the vehicles’ powertrain warranty coverage. For reference, other models that use either the 2.5-liter LK0 or 2.7-liter L3B include the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Colorado, Traverse, and Silverado 1500, as well as the GMC Acadia, Canyon, and Sierra 1500. The updated service bulletin does not identify a safety risk related to the ticking noise. However, if left unaddressed, it could lead to long-term valvetrain wear while leaving some owners dealing with persistent noise. Chevrolet A Problem on the Production LineThe newly added 2.0-liter LSY is assembled at GM’s Spring Hill plant in Tennessee, though the affected Envision itself is produced in China. In the Cadillac CT5, the LSY can deliver up to 237 horsepower. The two larger engines are also reportedly assembled at the same facility, which could help explain why all three are linked to the same issue. Because GM did not identify a specific VIN range, owners of affected models may want to have their vehicles checked if they notice the ticking noise. Cadillac View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Boxer. Turbo. All-Wheel DriveIf you combine those three words together, it can only be one car. For those who still need a hint, that's none other than the Subaru WRX. Okay, the Forester was available with a turbo, but the WRX is the definitive car that has those key ingredients. The WRX, then known as the Impreza WRX, was born out of necessity. Subaru wanted to mount an even more serious challenge in the World Rally Championship, and the larger Legacy wasn't cutting it anymore. So, the company took its Impreza, itself a chopped Legacy, and gave it the same turbocharged boxer engine from its big brother to create the WRX. It then needed to homologate it, hence why we ended up with these cars in the first place. America was denied the first-gen WRXs, but Subaru of America made amends by finally launching the second-gen model stateside in 2001 for the 2002 model year. Not long after that, America finally got the WRX STI models. The cars gained more tech and power through the years, but the formula remained the same: Turbo, boxer, all-wheel drive. Cars & Bids Hybrid Power Ahead?The current WRX was launched in 2021 for the 2022 model year. Starting at under $35,000, it's a performance bargain and stays true to its attainable sports-compact roots. That said, it's sad that hopes for a full-on STI model are quickly diminishing, and our longing for it isn't helped by Subaru's knack of giving the world 'STI-lite' models instead of the real deal. But it appears that the sporty compact is at a crossroads at the moment. There's no doubt that mobility is getting more and more electrified these days, be it as hybrid or EV, but the next-gen model might be getting some battery-powered assistance. The worrying part? It might lose the turbo in the process. Subaru The Spy Shots Aren't PromisingA few examples of the redesigned WRX have been spotted in Japan, with a couple of them snapped by eagle-eyed spies. One photo of it was recently shared by Australian publication Drive, and there's something missing in the picture. If you clicked the link and saw the photo, you might have noticed the lack of a hood scoop on the car shown. Granted, it's the Levorg or WRX Sportswagon, as it's called in most places, but those cars also have that distinct feature in their current guises. Even the higher-riding Levorg Layback with fewer performance ambitions has the hood scoop. Drive says the new WRX will instead utilize a more powerful version of Subaru's 'Strong Hybrid' system that's currently used in the Forester. While we're all for more power, we fear that going in that direction will result in less character. Cautiously OptimisticOf course, it's hard to say for certain what Subaru really has in store for the future WRX. It's possible that the intercooler will simply be moved to the bottom by the front bumper, which is highly uncharacteristic of the brand. There's also the possibility of it having an integrated air scoop in its grille, just like the Japan-only Forester Turbo. Let's also not discount the likelihood of Subaru adapting a turbo-hybrid powertrain for the WRX. The idea isn't new, and many automakers have adapted to that kind of configuration. However, going for that means we might not see a manual transmission option. That said, Subaru has filed a patent for a simulated manual transmission, and it might be applied to hybrids, too. Subaru View the full article

A Small Engine With Some Big QuestionsThe redesigned Chevrolet Trax has earned its share of praise for being affordable, practical, and well-equipped for its size. But the spotlight is now shifting to what’s under the hood. The Trax runs on a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, shared with the Buick Envista, Encore, and Chevrolet Trailblazer. On paper, the compact power plant promises a blend of efficiency and everyday performance, all while keeping costs down. For most owners, it seems to deliver as promised. But some drivers have started noticing odd knocking or thudding sounds from the engine – enough for GM to issue new service guidance for technicians. According to the bulletin, however, those sounds can be considered normal operating characteristics and may not require repairs. Some owners remain unconvinced by GM’s explanation. Two Trax owners whose vehicles stalled believe the noises indicated a more serious problem and have chosen to pursue legal action. Chase Bierenkoven The Lawsuit and the Alleged FailureJust last week, California plaintiffs Samantha Cook and Donna Cook filed a class action lawsuit against General Motors after purchasing a new 2024 Chevrolet Trax. According to the complaint, Samantha Cook was driving the vehicle on January 25 when a reduced engine power warning appeared on the dashboard. The SUV stalled soon after she was on the road. The lawsuit claims the engine began knocking loudly as she pulled the vehicle to the side of the road. At that point, the Trax had roughly 11,581 miles on the odometer. Once the Trax made it to the dealership, technicians found a broken connecting rod had damaged the engine block. The fix? A full engine replacement. But with replacement engines on backorder, the SUV was left sitting at the dealership while the owners waited for parts. According to the lawsuit, the 1.2-liter turbo engine is prone to internal failures involving connecting rods, bearings, oil flow, and more. The plaintiffs also claim GM knew about these issues from dealership reports and technical bulletins. The case, Cook et al. v. General Motors LLC, was filed in the US District Court for the District of Delaware and seeks class action status for owners of affected vehicles. Chase Bierenkoven What Happens NextRight now, these are just allegations – the court hasn’t weighed in yet. The case still has to clear the usual early legal hurdles before anything moves forward. If the court gives the green light for a class action, the next step is discovery. That’s when attorneys dig into internal documents, engineering reports, and dealership communications to see what GM knew and when. The plaintiffs hope discovery will show exactly when GM first learned about the alleged defect – and how the company responded to early complaints. For now, vehicles named in the lawsuit remain covered by GM’s five-year or 60,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with the standard three-year or 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage. Whether this lawsuit leads to repairs, compensation, or nothing at all will come down to how the court weighs the claims and evidence in the months ahead. Chevrolet View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

As we head into the second week of March, several significant weather systems are creating hazardous driving conditions across the United States. Travelers planning a road trip or a daily commute through the Pacific Northwest, the Colorado Rockies, or near the Great Lakes should prepare for severe winter weather and potential road closures. The National Weather Service is strongly advising all drivers to carry a winter emergency driving kit, including tire chains, a flashlight, blankets, and extra water. Washington Cascades Face Heavy Snow and Low VisibilityA major winter storm is hitting the Washington Cascades, bringing dangerous driving conditions to critical mountain passes. The National Weather Service has issued Winter Weather Advisories for the area lasting through Tuesday, with a Winter Storm Watch extending into Friday. Accumulations of 8 to 14 inches are expected at elevations between 3500 and 4500 feet. This severe weather will particularly affect Stevens Pass, Snoqualmie Pass, and White Pass. Drivers on Interstate 90 and Highway 2 should expect significant delays, slick roads, and near whiteout conditions due to wind gusts reaching up to 55 mph. If you must travel, authorities advise you to reduce your speed significantly and prepare for sudden temporary road closures. Getty Images Colorado Rockies and Interstate 70 Corridor See Significant SnowfallTravelers heading through Colorado should prepare for challenging conditions along the heavily trafficked Interstate 70 corridor. A winter storm has already dropped measurable snow in the Denver metro area, but the most severe impacts are concentrated in the foothills and mountains. Forecasters predict 6 to 15 inches of snow, with the heaviest amounts falling along and south of Interstate 70. The Eisenhower Tunnel area is expected to see about a foot of snow, making traction laws and slower speeds a certainty. Commuters and ski traffic alike will need to exercise extreme caution. Slushy and snow-packed roads will persist through the early part of the week. View the full article