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Chinese automakers keep pushing into segments that used to be dominated by familiar names. One upcoming pickup concept, just shown off in Sydney, could shake up the midsize truck space in a way few expected. It’s called the KP31, and Chery is pitching something the segment hasn’t really seen before: a diesel-powered plug-in hybrid. And as Americans warm up to the idea of Chinese cars, the chances of Chinese automakers coming to the US are increasing by the day. Perhaps the KP31 will have the opportunity to go head-to-head with the likes of the Ford Ranger and Toyota Tacoma. A New Rival For America’s Favorite Midsize Trucks Chery Chery For many buyers, midsize pickups like the upcoming Ram Dakota are exactly what they need. It’s smaller than a full-size truck like the Ford F-150, doesn't cost a fortune, and still does cliche truck things like hauling and going off-road. The KP31 aims directly at that formula. It rides on a ladder-frame chassis and shares similar dimensions to the Ranger, with a tough, upright design that embraces a retro design language. It comes fitted with a snorkel, all-terrain tires, and a tub ruck. And its round headlights and boxy proportions remind us of both the new Toyota FJ Cruiser and Land Cruiser. Its silhouette also reminds us of another plug-in hybrid Chinese pickup that's already on sale in Mexico, the BYD Shark 6. The First Diesel Plug-In Hybrid Pickup Chery Chery Hardcore truck fanatics dream about having diesel power come back to the modern age. While there's talk of Stellantis retaining some diesel-powered models in Europe, the majority of the segment has died off. That said, the Chery KP31 gets a 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine that's paired with plug-in hybrid tech, which they claim is "10% more fuel efficient" than the average diesel engine. According to details reported by CarExpert, the setup could deliver up to about 170 km (105 miles) of electric driving range while still targeting around one ton (2,200 pounds) of payload and 3.5 tons (7,700 pounds) of towing capacity – the same as the new dual-motor Tesla Cybertruck. A gasoline plug-in hybrid variant is also expected to join the lineup in 2027. Could This Chinese Pickup Reach North America? Chery Chery For now, the KP31 is planned to only go on sale in Australia in Q4 2026, but the Chief Engineer of Chery, Peter Matkin, told CarExpert the Chinese ute may go on sale internationally, saying "these rugged-looking cars get a lot of attention overseas," mentioning markets like Europe, South Africa, and South America. While North America hasn’t been confirmed, the idea of Chinese automakers entering the US is getting more attention. In fact, Ford has thought of allowing Chinese carmakers to build vehicles in the US via joint ventures, despite most US dealers wanting them blocked-off. If the KP31 delivers on its promise, it could force key players in the midsize truck segment to evolve if they want to stay relevant. View the full article

One of the cool things about EVs—especially those built on dedicated battery-electric platforms—is that they offer not only one but two trunks. Besides the traditional luggage compartment in the back, many EVs also offer a so-called "frunk," short for front trunk. This is enabled by the specific packaging of electric vehicles, which don't require that much room for the powertrain and have far fewer less ancillaries than an internal combustion engine vehicle. It goes without saying that the frunk is a key USP for EVs and that it comes as standard equipment. Well, not for all EVs. As we reported in December 2025, Ford has decided to stop offering the frunk for free on the 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E, citing the need to lower prices as the main reason. Ford Says Mach-E Customers Hardly Used the Frunk Yes, as hardly believable as it may sound, Ford has made the frunk a paid option on the 2026 Mach-E after five years of offering it for free. Buyers who want a frunk now have to pay $495 extra, regardless of the trim level they want, as Ford's online build tool for the 2026 Mach-E shows. Now how do you go about explaining that to customers? Besides helping Ford lower Mach-E starting prices—by up to $1,000 on the 2026 Mach-E GT—another stated reason for the decision is that internal research showed that consumers weren't using the frunk very often. As a result, Ford's planning team decided it would be better to make it a paid option. Whether you buy that explanation or not, making a feature that was previously free a $500 option will certainly not go down well with the Mach-E crowd. You may recall the widespread backlash BMW received in 2022 and 2023 for moving heated seats and steering wheels under a paid monthly subscription, despite the fact that pre-installed hardware for these features was present on the vehicles. How Much Money Is This Going To Save Ford? Ford Mind you, the comparison with the BMW subscription debacle doesn't make Ford look good. While people expect to pay extra for features like heated seats, they probably don't imagine having to pay for a basic feature that was previously free of charge. It's not clear how much money Ford is going to save from producing a standard 2026 Mach-E without a frunk. After all, the space under the hood is still there; it’s just going to be sealed off on vehicles shipped without a frunk. Whatever savings Ford makes from ditching the plastic frame of the frunk are likely offset by the plastic used to seal off the area under the hood. All things considered, it's worth pointing out that Ford had shrunk the Mach-E's frunk for the 2025 model year by around 40% to make room for a new heat pump. As a result, frunk capacity is now 4.8 cubic-feet. That's not a lot of storage space, but it's not negligible either as it accounts for 16% of the Mach-E's rear trunk size. You can easily store the charging cables there and then some. Ford View the full article

Tesla vs. California DMVIn 2025, the California Department of Motor Vehicles said that Tesla was misrepresenting the capabilities of its Autopilot system and driving aids. It wasn't just the name Autopilot that bothered the DMV; it was claims of it being "able to conduct short and long-distance trips with no action required by the person in the driver’s seat." The automaker was then facing a 30-day sales suspension in the state, and the California DMV told the company to change its marketing language. Tesla complied with the request, and the company now calls its semi-autonomous driving capabilities Full Self-Driving (Supervised). Tesla Tesla's CounterattackWhile it complied, the company didn't take the 'false advertiser' tag lightly, CNBC reports. With that, it has launched an appeal to reverse the California DMV's ruling. According to the case filed by Tesla, the state "wrongfully and baselessly labels Tesla a false advertiser for marketing its industry-leading advanced driver-assistance systems ('ADAS') under the brand names "Autopilot" and "Full-Self Driving Capability.'" The resolution that Tesla wants is to reverse the California DMV order that labeled the brand as such, adding that it was "factually wrong, legally flawed, unconstitutional, and should be set aside." Tesla said that Autopilot and Full-Self Driving Capability were never advertised as fully autonomous and that it has repeatedly warned against the misuse of its systems to consumers. David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images Alleged LapsesTesla argued the expert testimony of the California DMV, stating that only one expert was used. It added that the person "was not a marketing expert or linguist and thus appeared to have no reliable basis for any expert opinion on the effect of Tesla’s advertising on a reasonable consumer." It was also mentioned that the company was kept in the dark as the ALJ shared their recommendations with the California DMV, despite repeated attempts to communicate. The case file also stated that the DMV did not introduce evidence that Tesla's semi-autonomous driving systems were, indeed, unsafe. There was also no consumer testimony to know if Tesla's wording and advertising were misleading in the first place. Tesla Prayer for ReliefSo, what does Tesla want out of all of this? Aside from clearing its name, there are other court orders that it seeks. One is to issue a declaratory judgment that "the Order is unconstitutional under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution." The company also wants the court to acknowledge that it did not receive a fair trial, violating the Fourteenth Amendment. There is no set date for the trial just yet, but you can check out more details of the case here. It will be interesting to see how it goes and whether or not the court will rule in favor of Tesla this time around. That said, California isn't the only place where it's battling the 'false advertiser claims, as French courts are also taking a look at the company's advertising practices in the country. Tesla View the full article

Three Wins, One SUVKia is celebrating a trio of milestones following the rollout of the all-new 2027 Telluride at its Georgia plant. These include the start of production for the reworked midsize crossover, the five-millionth vehicle to roll off the Georgia assembly line, and the plant’s first hybrid vehicle, which also marks the first Kia hybrid assembled in the United States. Given the rising demand for hybrids in the U.S., this move could strengthen Kia’s competitiveness, as locally built models would avoid import tariffs. It also aligns with broader plans to assemble more Kia hybrid models stateside, including at Hyundai Motor Group’s Georgia facility. Expanding U.S. hybrid production would help the Korean automaker better compete with brands that already have well-established hybrid lineups, such as Toyota. Kia A New Heart Under the HoodThe Telluride had long been offered exclusively with a gasoline engine until the 2027 model year, when Kia introduced a 2.5-liter turbocharged hybrid powertrain producing 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The automaker estimates that the Telluride Hybrid EX FWD can deliver a total driving range of up to 637 miles – an impressive figure for a vehicle of its size, comparable to rivals like the Honda Pilot. Based on the online configurator, the all-new, second-generation Telluride is offered in 12 derivatives, starting at $39,190, excluding destination charges. Gas-only models are powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 274 horsepower. All-wheel drive (AWD) is available on select trims as a $2,000 option. The 2027 Telluride is expected to go on sale in the U.S. in Q1 2026. It will continue to serve as the brand’s largest gas-powered SUV, alongside other large offerings such as the Carnival – an MPV – and the EV9 for buyers seeking an all-electric option. Kia Marking the MomentSpeaking about the milestone, Sean Yoon, President and CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, said, “Reaching five million vehicles and introducing, not only the first HEV assembled in Georgia, but Kia’s first US-assembled HEV, is a testament to both Kia’s storied history and our direction going forward.” Kia’s Georgia plant also assembles the Sorento and Sportage, though their hybrid variants have traditionally been imported from South Korea. The facility likewise builds the brand’s entries into the all-electric segment – the EV6 and EV9. Kia View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

When Nissan announced it would be discontinuing the Versa subcompact sedan in the U.S. late in 2025, it also marked the departure of the cheapest vehicle in the country. The Versa was the last new car you could purchase for under $20,000; at $17,390 for the base model, it was terrific value for money. Now, Nissan has begun production of the new 2026 Versa in Mexico, where it’s the best-selling vehicle. This gives us our first clear look at the fresh Versa sedan after the design was leaked last year. Murano-Inspired Design N The outgoing Nissan Versa was quite a stylish sedan despite its bargain pricing, especially the upper trims with larger wheels and more aggressive trim. The new one is a little more controversial, with a front fascia that resembles the one on the new Murano SUV. The front lighting is split by a narrow, body-color strip atop the grille. The model seen here is finished in a bold blue color with lots of contrasting black trim, including the mirrors. The short trunk leads down to new taillights linked by a black panel bearing the Versa name. A slightly awkward expanse of sheetmetal sits between this and the low-mounted license plate. It’s a more challenging look than the outgoing model, but opinions on the new look will vary. N This 2026 Nissan Versa has now gone into production in Mexico, where it’s immensely popular; over a million units of the Versa have already been sold there across the first two generations. “We are not only celebrating a new chapter in the history of one of our most iconic models, but we are also reaffirming the strength, relevance, and solidity of our manufacturing operation in Mexico,” said Rodrigo Centeno, President and CEO of Nissan Mexicana and Infiniti. Related: Nissan Ends Production of U.S.’s Most Affordable New Car Over Tariffs, Low Sales Will The Versa Return To The U.S.? A There’s no indication that the new Nissan Versa will be sold in the United States, despite the fact that over 51,000 examples of the sedan were sold in 2025—an increase of 20.5% over 2024’s sales. The all-new Nissan Sentra was launched a few months ago and has a high-value starting price of $22,600, so Nissan still has one of the cheapest sedans in the country. Interestingly, Nissan has also cancelled plans for a cheaper version of the Leaf EV, which was expected to have a price point of under $26,000. Despite these decisions, Nissan remains strongly positioned in the budget-car segment, with multiple models well below the average price of a new car. The all-new Kicks crossover starts at $22,430, the Leaf is still one of the most affordable EVs at under $30,000, and the Altima is one of the cheapest midsize sedans at $27,580. For now, though, Americans looking for a budget sedan from Nissan will have to settle for the Sentra or a used Versa. View the full article

It may seem as if Tesla's focus has shifted from retail cars to its Cybercab and the Optimus robot, but there's still more to come in the near future. A user on X (where else?) dug into the automaker's backend configurator assets and electronic parts catalog and discovered that the EU and Asia-Pacific variants of the 2026 Model 3 are set to receive interior upgrades borrowed from the Model Y, and there's no reason to think that these upgrades won't come to the U.S.-spec models too. As usual, the changes are slight, but they should make the cabin feel more premium. Not a Tesla App reports that the easily dirtied light grey fabric headliner will finally be replaced by black, and the infotainment system will get a new, bigger, crisper display. 2026 Tesla Model 3 Getting a More Premium Cabin Tesla According to the leak, interior code IN3PB (Interior 3 Premium Black) confirms that the light headliner will finally be ditched in favor of something more premium. In the past, this code referred to the standard black interior finish for Premium models, but now, the code is linked to an Alcantara-style headliner, something the Model Y already benefits from. As for the new display, this is confirmed by catalog code Display_16_QHD, which was also formerly only available for the Model Y. At present, the Model 3 makes use of a 15.4-inch touch display, but the new code points to a 16-inch touchscreen with higher resolution and improved pixel density, making those in-car gaming experiences all the more immersive. Related: Why Tesla Still Doesn’t Offer Apple CarPlay in 2026 Not a Tesla App notes that this will translate to a resolution of 2560x1440 (QHD), up from 1920x1200 (HD) in current Model 3s, and the update will not only widen but also shorten the screen, providing fractionally more forward visibility. While the current screen measures 15.4 inches diagonally, 13.06 inches in width, and 8.16 inches tall, the new one measures 16 inches from one bottom corner to the opposite top corner, 13.95 inches across, and 7.84 inches from top to bottom. This works out to a display area of 109.39 inches, up from 106.59 inches. More Details on New Tesla Model 3 Upgrades to Follow Tesla Whether these upgrades will result in a price bump remains to be seen, and a release date has not yet been uncovered. That said, this data's application to the EU and Asia-Pacific regions means that a rollout for the U.S. and other markets will likely lag a little. Still, it's encouraging that Tesla hasn't forgotten that it's a carmaker, with recent reports indicating that the six-seat Model Y L could be offered beyond its primary market of China, and the Cybertruck getting a reduced price, albeit for a limited time. View the full article

In its first year being held at Dover Motor Speedway, the NASCAR All-Star Race now has a format to be contested under the shadow of Miles the Monster. And this one is going to be a marathon that requires a good bit of arithmetic. First and foremost, there will no longer be an ‘open’ race for drivers not already locked-in to race their way into the decisive segment of the event. With ...Keep readingView the full article

The $100K Time CapsuleA recent auction at GAA Classic Cars shows that a 1988 Chevrolet K3500 Silverado can still command $100,000. The one-ton “Squarebody” pickup’s most remarkable detail is its odometer reading of just 55 miles. It has essentially never been driven and still retains its factory protective plastic nearly four decades later. That kind of money could buy a brand-new Silverado HD — and still leave room to spare, while benefiting from a factory warranty. However, judging by its equipment list, this classic Chevy was far from bare-bones. It came with features typically associated with higher-spec trims at the time, including a 4x4 drivetrain, cruise control, air conditioning, power windows, and an automatic transmission — factors that likely helped justify the six-figure price to its buyer. GAA Classic Cars A Different Kind of ValueThe vehicle — finished in Doeskin Tan — is powered by a 454-cubic-inch big-block V8 that uses fuel injection rather than a traditional carburetor. By the late 1980s, tightening emissions standards under the Clean Air Act were pushing automakers toward electronically controlled fueling systems. While Chevrolet was transitioning its truck lineup during this period, Ford had already moved to an all-fuel-injected pickup engine lineup slightly earlier. Around the same time, the famed 5.9-liter Cummins turbodiesel was introduced in the DodgeRam, helping make the late 1980s a pivotal period for heavy-duty pickups. Other notable details on this 1988 K3500 include the fact that it was never dealer-prepped, along with the “Super Dooley” windshield paint — a period dealer term highlighting its dual rear wheel (dually) configuration. That setup improves weight distribution, enhances stability, and increases towing capacity, reinforcing the truck’s heavy-duty, workhorse credentials. GAA Classic Cars Trucks Then and NowToday, however, the perception of full-size trucks has shifted, with some buyers viewing them as lifestyle or statement vehicles rather than strictly work-focused tools. Modern pickups are loaded with advanced in-car technology, premium materials, and driver-assistance features, which have broadened their appeal but also driven up prices. For example, the entry-level 2026 Silverado 1500 starts at around $36,900 before destination fees, with higher trims climbing significantly beyond that. That may be where the appeal and perceived value of this 1988 K3500 lies. It preserves the straightforward, purpose-built character that once defined full-size pickups, especially in America, where this vehicle type continues to dominate. Elsewhere, full-size trucks don’t hold the same appeal. Still, at $100,000, many buyers might look elsewhere — but then again, different strokes for different folks. GAA Classic Cars View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

All eyes were on the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season-opener at Daytona, and that was partly due to the entry list. An extreme sports athlete joined the grid alongside a famous YouTuber, a child sitcom star, a NASCAR Hall of Famer, and several other interesting names, which made it must-watch TV. Well, the third round of the 2026 NCTS season has similar intrigue, as the Truck Series takes ...Keep readingView the full article

Las Vegas, Nevada, built its reputation as a mecca of vice buried deep within a desert landscape nobody was paying much attention to. What was once a hotbed of organized crime and petty criminality is now a den of monolithic buildings funded by private equity groups that design every aspect of your stay for monetization. The iconic Las Vegas strip has become boring. Every night’s stay carries an annoying and unnecessary resort fee; gambling odds are no longer in your favor, and slot machines are algorithmically rigged against you; parking costs extra, everywhere, all the time; shows are tired exercises in repetition, not entertainment. The resort next door is often a mile away through vast corridors and navigating confusing pedestrian traffic lanes, and there’s not a single affordable meal you’d actually want to eat in any of those massive buildings. One starts to wonder what the point of Las Vegas even is, anymore. So I ventured off the strip - but not to the Fremont Street experience, or Hoover Dam. No, we went the other direction entirely, into the desert itself, looking for a different type of fun. I was in town for the F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix, but spent a day driving over rocks, across dunes, and speeding through washed-out basins - and I wouldn’t do it any differently. In fact, this may be my new normal for visiting Las Vegas. Behind the scenesFull disclosure: For this off-roading trip, I was a guest of Pirelli. Like my foray into Death Valley with Pirelli, the company wanted to show off its new Scorpion XTM AT tire. Many tire manufacturers host these sorts of trips, but what sets Pirelli apart (in my experience, at least) is that guests aren’t ushered through a manufactured course. Pirelli arranged for some Jeeps, put its Scorpion XTM AT tire on them, and off we went. There was no manicured course. In fact, we were encouraged to deviate from the path our lead truck forged if we felt so inclined. Pirelli believes so fiercely in its Scorpion XTM AT tire that it was willing to dump me into the desert and asked me to figure it out on my own. Thankfully, I have plenty of experience driving off-road. If there’s one thing I found impressive about the Pirelli Scorpion XTM AT on this trip, it’s that we never had to let any air out of the tires to get traction. We ran them at the manufacturer’s recommended PSI for the fitment on our Jeeps all day. I could have aired down and gotten better traction on the rocks, sure, but I didn’t need to. For me, the Pirelli Scorpion XTM AT is simply the best tire for drivers who drive both on and off-road. View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article Off-roading, Las Vegas styleNellis Dunes sits about 25 minutes northeast of Las Vegas, covering over 10,000 acres. It’s a popular destination for off-roading, with a lot of the terrain carved by ATVs. My time off-roading at Nellis Dunes came just after heavy rains, adding a layer of complexity to the day. ATV paths are their own hiccup for larger vehicles, but a freshly washed desert is even more treacherous. I spent most of my time in Nellis Dunes traversing dunes. Our guides cautioned us that the rains had reset the trails, and we should expect slippage and sliding on the sands. It was akin to driving uncharted territory. Our vehicles handled everything well - no slipping or sliding - and we definitely went places within those dunes with the expectation we may have to help dig each other out. Nellis Dunes is approachable, even for novices, but can be challenging enough for more experienced drivers. It’s a sort of “choose your own adventure” destination for off-road driving. You can keep it relaxed and tinker in the wide-open dunes, or you can venture up steeper hills that ramp up the difficulty level quite a bit. Whatever you choose, you’re never going to be in imminent danger. Sure, you might get stuck, but that’s to be expected. If you prefer a hosted experience, several ATV tours are available for touring Nellis Dunes. Deeper into dangerAs we exited Nellis Dunes, we ventured into Valley of Fire State Park, about an hour further away from Las Vegas proper. Here we found more challenging trails, including rough, rocky uphill climbs and washed-out riverbeds freshly disturbed by recent rains. Where Nellis Dunes is a grab-a-beer-and-have-fun park of dunes, Valley of Fire will sober you right up - and quickly. Valley of Fire doesn’t seek permission, nor does it ease you in. Past the gorgeous scenery (and there are plenty of spots to pull over to be awestruck by what you see) lie harrowing, rocky trails that seem designed to strand those with egos too outsized for their skillset. On our journey, we saw one burned-out truck off the side of the road. I’m sure there are others just like it deeper in the park. Related: I Drove the 2025 Land Rover Defender 110 X-Dynamic SE in a Chicago Snowstorm, and This is How it Went Here, I challenged myself, the Jeep Wrangler I was driving, and Pirelli’s Scorpion XTM AT. I know rain only makes the paths look calm; beneath the trail's facade, the earth is still finding its footing, so I imagined pushing the vehicle just a bit further and getting ever-so-stuck in some riverbeds. I ventured off the path laid for me several times, expecting to radio for guidance, if not a shovel and some extra hands to help me out of a jam. We were, after all, on tires with full air after fresh rain on some challenging trails. I didn’t get stuck, and we moved on to deep, rough, rocky hill climbs. Rocks as large as the tires themselves jut out from smaller, sharper rocks that seem destined to pop at least one Scorpion XTM AT tire on the day. We climbed rocks, we sped through sandy trails, and we waded through wet creek beds. We slipped into four-low, four-high, and sometimes even left it in 2WD to see what would happen. We never let air out of our tires, which you really should do at least on the rocks we were driving over, and still had no issues traversing any terrain laid out ahead of us. Final thoughtsTires are fascinating in their own way. An immense amount of research and development goes into a critical component that most of us don’t think twice about until it’s time to replace them - and then we obsess about them. During my time in Las Vegas, we spent more time talking about the Scorpion XTM AT’s on-road performance than its off-road prowess. It’s hard to believe a tire that handles such a wide range of terrain without compromising performance is also quiet on the highway. Maybe Pirelli really did make the best all-around tire on the market. Off-roading is fun, and getting away from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas to bury tires in the sand was a welcome reprieve. I appreciate that you can opt for the approachable fun of Nellis Dunes, or get into some real trouble in Valley of Fire State Park. Both are less than 90 minutes from the Strip, too. I’m not even sure I can walk to the neighboring casino in less than 90 minutes, nor do I care to try. Take me to the desert with a sack lunch and a few water bottles instead, please. Related: GM Offers Built-In Apple Music in Exchange for Cutting CarPlay and Android Auto View the full article

Austin Hill, 31, is a proven winner in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series with nearly 150 starts and 15 wins. He was victorious in the 2026 season-opener at Daytona and nearly went back-to-back at Atlanta before last-lap contact while trying to block Ross Chastain. All of Hill's success in the secondary level of NASCAR has been with RCR. He also 15 Cup starts, finishing as high as ninth at ...Keep readingView the full article

Interior Materials Matter MostInterior materials aren’t usually the first thing buyers mention, but they’re what you live with every day. You spend more time with your hands on the steering wheel than anywhere else, and the rest of the cabin is always in your sight – long after you’ve stopped noticing the badge on the hood. Over the years, you’ll notice every crease, wrinkle, or spot that gets too hot in the sun. That’s why leather has always been at the top: it ages with character, and it brings a sense of permanence that cloth and early synthetics just couldn’t match. But leather isn’t perfect. It wrinkles, fades, adds weight, and is expensive to produce. As carmakers get more creative with design and materials, they’re looking for ways to keep that satisfying feel of leather without all the downsides. Nissan is one of those automakers, and its approach isn’t to ditch leather altogether, but to rethink what “leather-like” can mean for today’s interiors. Nissan Nissan’s TailorFit – the Better Leather?That’s where TailorFit comes in. It’s Nissan’s own synthetic seat material made from polyurethane, designed to feel more like real high-end leather than the usual leatherette. The idea is to quietly copy the softness and grain drivers expect in a premium cabin. Nissan’s engineers even matched the grain spacing to the distance between human fingerprint grooves, which is probably why it feels so smooth when you run your hand over it. Nissan claims TailorFit is durable, built to resist wrinkles and creases better than real leather, especially after years of climbing in and out of the car. It’s lighter, reduces material waste during production, and helps Nissan maintain consistent quality from one car to the next. That’s part of how models like the 2026 Sentra SL can offer a premium-looking interior without creeping into luxury-car price territory. You’ll find TailorFit in a handful of Nissan models right now – Armada SL, LEAF SV+ and Platinum+, Pathfinder SL, and Sentra SL. It’s even made its way into some Infiniti trims like the QX60 and QX80. It’s not meant to replace leather for everyone, but it gives buyers an option that balances feel, durability, and price in ways traditional leather sometimes can’t. Nissan Premium Materials Other Than LeatherNissan isn’t the only one rethinking leather’s place in car interiors. Volvo, for example, has gone all-in on alternative materials such as wool blends, woven flax panels, responsibly sourced wood, and even a synthetic called Nordico that uses recycled textiles. What all these approaches have in common isn’t turning away from luxury, but rather finding other ways to engage with it. Instead of sticking to old habits, brands are experimenting with materials that feel good, last longer, and align with what buyers expect today – both in terms of quality and responsibility. Whether TailorFit is a good move for Nissan is, of course, up to you as a consumer. Nissan View the full article

It’s been two dismal sales years for Audi in the United States, starting with a 14% drop in 2024 and an even larger 16% decline in 2025. Last year was Audi’s worst performance in the country this decade, with only 164,942 vehicles sold. Unfortunately, the decline looks likely to continue in 2026, with Audi projecting U.S. sales of around 144,000 cars this year. That estimate came to light in a document from a lawsuit, in which Luxury Autos of Smithtown had filed a complaint against the automaker. A Massive Three-Year Decline Audi In 2023, Audi sold a record 228,550 vehicles in the United States. If the 2026 projection is accurate, it would represent a 37% decline in sales in only three years. It would also make this year Audi’s worst one since 2012, when it sold 139,310 vehicles, according to the Automotive News Research & Data Center. Asked to comment on the sales projection stated in the lawsuit document, an Audi spokesperson said the company would not comment on open litigation. The lawsuit was filed in December in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York. It claims that dealerships have been unfairly disadvantaged by Audi of America’s margin programs related to sales. The 2026 sales projection appeared in a related complaint on December 31. Sales Of Most Audis Down Audi Last year, Audi of America saw a decline in sales across almost the entire lineup. Core SUV models like the Q3 (-27%), Q5 (-19%), and Q7 (-12%) all posted poorer numbers than in 2024. Only three models posted sales gains—the A7, Q6 e-tron, and Q8—but only the Q6 e-tron’s increase in sales was significant. The EV registered 17,207 sales in 2025, up from 966 in 2024. These results are especially worrying when you consider that the brand launched several all-new models, including the third-generation Q5 in the popular compact crossover segment. The new A5 and A6 have not been around for long enough to gauge how popular they’ll be, but without strong SUV sales, Audi’s hopes of a turnaround anytime soon are slim. Worse still for Audi is the fact that its closest rivals have not experienced the same sharp decline. BMW sales were up by 4.7% in the U.S. last year, setting a new record with 388,897 vehicles sold. Even without Mini sales, BMW is far ahead of Audi. Mercedes sits between the two, with sales of 343,200 last year, up by 1%. What It Means Kyle Edward Audi’s declining sales involve multiple factors. Import tariffs have hit the brand hard, especially since it doesn’t manufacture vehicles in the U.S., whereas rivals like BMW and Lexus do. Audi has invested heavily in its EV lineup, but sales of nearly all those models are down, too. Fierce competition and a confusing naming strategy have hurt Audi as well. The new Q3, a planned redesign of the Q7, and Audi’s first Q9 are expected to be important models in the brand’s portfolio. But, when even the new Q5 has failed to excite buyers, repeating the same formula with a smaller or larger vehicle may not be enough. Audi needs a bigger reinvention of the brand, and the Concept C sports car could be the springboard to that. In design, ergonomics, and quality, it represents a new era for Audi, and these changes could also filter down to higher-volume vehicles in the company’s lineup. Related: Audi Q9 Officially (and Quietly) Confirmed for 2026 Debut View the full article

Ford’s PHEVs Under ReviewSome argue that hybridized powertrains may be less reliable due to the added complexity of components like a high-voltage battery. Reaching a definitive conclusion, however, requires long-term data – especially as newer, more advanced hybrid systems enter the market. Still, recalls such as this one from Ford may draw added scrutiny. The Blue Oval brand is recalling nearly 25,000 Escape and Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid models because certain battery cells could experience an internal short circuit, potentially increasing the risk of a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall number 26V091 states that the affected vehicles may be equipped with high-voltage battery cells impacted by variability in the supplier’s production process. As a result, owners could experience a shutdown of the vehicle’s propulsion system – a failure mode that has prompted loss-of-motive-power recalls for certain Jeep models equipped with the 4xe plug-in hybrid system. Additionally, an internal short circuit may lead to battery thermal venting, which could increase the risk of a fire. Lincoln Trouble in the Compact SegmentThe affected vehicles include 17,345 units of the 2023–2025 Ford Escape PHEV and 7,345 units of the 2023–2026 Lincoln Corsair PHEV. Both models are underpinned by Ford’s C2 platform. In PHEV form, they use a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four paired with an electric motor, while the Corsair adds a second rear electric motor to enable an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Ford is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to this issue. Affected owners are scheduled to be notified between March 2 and March 6, 2026. At that time, Ford will provide details regarding the recall process. The final remedy is still under development and will be communicated once available. As with most safety recalls, repairs will be performed free of charge to customers. Ford What Owners Should KnowIn the meantime, affected owners are advised to limit their vehicle’s state of charge (SoC) to 80 percent, a measure intended to reduce stress on potentially defective cells and lower the risk of a thermal event. They are also instructed to use “Auto EV” mode only, which automatically blends gasoline and electric power, likely to avoid sustained battery-only operation. If a high-voltage battery cell develops an internal short circuit, the vehicle may shut down its propulsion system and display a red “Stop Safely Now” message on the instrument cluster. So far this year, Ford leads the recall list with 10 safety campaigns, according to NHTSA’s public recall dashboard, followed by Hyundai with five. One of Ford’s recent recalls involves a rear suspension toe-link fracture risk affecting more than 400,000 Explorer SUVs. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Last HurrahCertain models are responsible for putting brands on the map. In Tesla's case, these two cars are the Model S and Model X. We all remember those first few viral videos of the Model S Plaid shaming all types of supercars in drag races, and the Model X for the gimmickry now associated with Tesla, the dancing doors, light show, and many more. It was announced earlier this year that the brand will be moving away from the two models, opting to use the factory space to make the Optimus Humanoid robots. Apart from the robots, it's also been clear that the S and X are no longer the sales stalwarts of the brand, and both models are past the decade mark in terms of age. It seems people are still buying them, though, but stocks are quickly running out. Demand Through ScarcityCheck out Tesla's website for the Model Sand Model X, and you'll find the Lunar Silver paint option is listed as sold out. Yes, the popular paint option is gone for both models, and it could be the start of dwindling stock, leading to the models being canceled altogether. So if you were thinking of getting a Lunar Silver swathed Model X or S you're out of luck, but if color isn't an issue the others are still available on the website. Colors such as Pearl White Multi-Coat, Forest Blue Metallic, Stealth Grey Pearl, Diamond Black, or Ultra Red. Ultra Red seems to be the only color that doesn't incur an extra cost; the others have a $1,500 or $2,500 upcharge. Lunar Silver fell into the more expensive color price bracket. Autonomous FutureIn any case, no specific announcement has been made to explain why there is currently no Lunar Silver option for these cars. It just so happened that we saw the website and started thinking. Though it really isn't so hard to put two and two together that they are possibly running out of the stocks for these cars as Tesla gears up for the production of the Optimus Humanoids. Tesla bossman Elon Musk himself was quoted as saying they must move on from the Model S and X lines to reach his target of 1 million robots per year. This, he says, is a move that prepares the brand to be at the forefront of the autonomous future. It also makes sense given that abroad, Tesla sells the Model 3 and Y, ensuring their place in the car side of the business. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Incremental by DesignThe Bronco first hit the market in 2021, so by the usual playbook, it should be getting a mid-cycle refresh right about now. But Ford isn’t rushing. Instead, the company has made it clear there’s no need to force a big facelift just for the sake of it. Instead, incremental updates have arrived year by year, often subtle, sometimes meaningful, but rarely flashy. According to Ford, that approach isn’t changing anytime soon. What will change is the scale of the next update. Ford has confirmed that the 2027 Bronco will get its biggest round of changes yet. It’s not a ground-up redesign, but it should be “obvious” even if you’re not a Bronco expert. Cole Attisha Flurry of Updates Arrived in 2025Bronco engineer and development driver Seth Goslawski told The Drive that the changes have been intentionally incremental. Most of the interior upgrades, new features, and tweaks come straight from what owners have asked for, not just from chasing something new for its own sake. You can see that approach in the 2025 model year. The Base trim made a comeback, though it arrived a bit late. Big Bend and Heritage Edition are now four-door only, and Black Diamond is no longer a standalone trim but a package. Ford also added the Stroppe Edition, bringing a bit of heritage flavor back into the mix. Inside, ambient footwell lighting became standard across the board, heated steering wheels spread to more trims, and auxiliary switches and grab handles became more widely available. Performance and capability also saw quiet improvements, including electric brake boost becoming standard on all powertrains and expanded availability of the HOSS 3.0 suspension. None of these tweaks reinvent the Bronco, but together they make it easier to own, easier to configure, and better suited to how people actually use it. Cole Attisha No 2026 Model Year Yet?Ford hasn’t said anything yet about a 2026 Bronco, and the 2025 version is still on dealer lots and the configuration site. Normally, that kind of gap might be a red flag, but the sales numbers tell a different story. In 2025, Bronco set a new sales record with 146,007 units – up nearly 34 percent from the year before. That pace hasn’t slowed, either. January 2026 sales jumped almost 20 percent over last year. Clearly, buyers aren’t worried about the lack of a facelift. That’s why Ford is confident in its approach. With demand still climbing and owner feedback shaping each update, the Bronco doesn’t need a dramatic overhaul. If anything, its steady success proves that small, thoughtful changes are working – even as a bigger update gets closer. Cole Attisha View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

In terms of sheer bang for your buck, no sports car can match the Chevrolet Corvette C8. From the base model to the mighty ZR1X, it offers a level of performance that surpasses exotics costing hundreds of thousands more. As a reminder of how good the Corvette is, the ZR1 has just set another lap record, beating the McLaren Senna in the process. This isn’t even the most powerful Corvette C8—that honor goes to the hybrid ZR1X—but its recent lap time at the Virginia International Raceway demonstrates the excellence of this platform. Related: Corvette ZR1 Came Within Seconds of a $2 Million Czinger Record at COTA The Fastest Lightning Lap Ever Chevrolet Put through its paces by Car and Driver in the publication’s Lightning Lap in Virginia, the Corvette ZR1 set a time of 2:34.2 minutes. That breaks the record set by the McLaren Senna, which achieved a time of 2:34.9 minutes in 2019. Here’s a look at the top 10 Lightning Laps since the format’s inception in 2006: Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (2026) - 2:34.2McLaren Senna (2019) - 2:34.9Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series (2021) - 2:37.0Porsche 911 GT3 RS (2023) - 2:37.2Porsche 911 GT2 RS Weissach (2018) - 2:37.8McLaren 765LT (2021) - 2:38.4Chevrolet Corvette Z06 (2023) - 2:38.6Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 (2019) - 2:39.5McLaren 720S (2018) - 2:39.7Porsche 911 GT3 Manthey - 2:39.8Besides the other Corvettes on this list, Europe’s very best sports cars occupy the top 10 spots, and all are priced far above the $182,000 ZR1; the Senna commanded a seven-figure price tag at launch. This Corvette’s 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 produces 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque. With the available ZTK Performance Package, it can run from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.3 seconds. Chevrolet Besides setting the quickest Lightning Lap time overall, the ZR1 also hit a record peak speed of 179 mph on the 4.1-mile circuit’s front straightaway. Its 141.2-mph top speed through the Uphill Esses was also a new record. The Virginia International Raceway Grand Course challenges every aspect of a car’s performance, including two major braking events from triple-digit speeds, the apex of South Bend that will see speeds of nearly 100 mph, and decreasing-radius corners. It rewards power, agility, balance, and braking in equal measure, and the ZR1 has mastered them all. Related: Ford's Fastest Mustang Ever Just Got Schooled by Two Corvettes at the Nurburgring What It Means Chevrolet Since being launched, the Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X have set numerous lap records, demolishing more expensive rivals in the process. The ZR1 set five production-car records on U.S. soil last year. Also last year, the ZR1 and ZR1X set new benchmark times for American cars at the Nürburgring, with both Corvettes shattering the Ford Mustang GTD’s achievement in the process. The ZR1X achieved a Nürburgring lap time of 06:49.275, thanks to its hybrid system; together with the 5.5L V8, this model produces 1,250 combined. By switching to a mid-engine layout for the C8, there’s considerably more mass over the Corvette’s driven wheels than in previous generations. This dramatically enhances traction and cuts down acceleration times. The arrival of more powerful variants has finally shown us what the platform is capable of, and that’s a ceiling nothing at the price can match. With each new record, the Corvette proves that world-beating performance doesn’t need an exotic price tag. View the full article

There's no shortage of high-end restomods these days, or remastered builds as many boutique carmakers like to call them. Beyond projects from household names like Singer Vehicle Design, Eagle, Emory Motorsports, Icon 4x4 or Alfaholics, there's always a newcomer trying to make it in this game, and Evoluto Automobili is among the most promising ones out there. You may remember their stunning Ferrari F355 Berlinetta-based 355 by Evoluto project, which was unveiled to the world in 2024. We didn't hear much from the company since, but it looks like it has made good progress as now the vehicle is apparently ready for production. The British company says in a press release that the final production prototype has received the engineering sign-off and completed validation testing, covering 5,000 miles of track and 10,000 miles of engine testing in the process. Next up is the final 20,000-mile durability sign-off in April, with the company stating that it will start production in March. The first customer delivery is expected to take place in the fourth quarter this year. The 355 by Evoluto's Engine Is a Real Screamer https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JD9055TTieQ Time for a little refresher. The 355 by Evoluto is styled with help from Callum Designs, which applied subtle but impactful upgrades to the already stunning design of the Ferrari F355 to make it look more modern. As you can see, it's drop dead gorgeous, and it sounds absolutely magnificent too. Just listen to its re-engineered 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 as it goes through a tunnel in the video above. It's visceral and mesmerizing to the point that the 355 by Evoluto hardly needs a sound system (don't worry, it has one). The engine makes 414 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque and has an 8,500-rpm redline, but Evoluto also offers the choice of a 3.7-liter version that delivers 474 hp and 295 lb-ft and redlines at 9,000 rpm. The bored-out engine features stronger internals, "extreme" high-lift cams, as well as optimized valvetrain and fuel system for "sustained high-speed operation." Lots of Hardware Upgrades Make It Better Than Maranello's Original Compared to the F355 Berlinetta donor car, the 355 has wider front and rear tracks, which house new upper and lower arms, uprights, wheel bearings, and anti-roll bar drop links. Massive Brembo brakes are also fitted, with six-pot calipers at the front and four-pot calipers out back. As a result of the re-engineered chassis and suspension, Evoluto says the 355 "feels significantly more planted and composed, especially during high-speed transitions and hard cornering." The company has also confirmed R53 as an official supplier for the three-way adjustable dampers. Other upgrades include a faster steering ratio, improved power steering that stays hydraulic, and lots of carbon fiber parts used particularly in the spectacular cabin—which, by the way, hasn't got a single digital display in it. Speaking of carbon fiber, Evoluto has managed to achieve significant weight reductions, with the 355 having a targeted mass of 2,756 pounds—some 220 pounds less than the F355 Berlinetta donor car. Naturally, all of this sounds expensive, and it is: TopGear has learned that the 355 by Evoluto starts from £595,000, which is the equivalent of around $800,000. Mind you, that excludes the cost of the F355 Berlinetta donor car, which had an average transaction price of around $146,000 over the past 12 months, according to Classic.com. Only 55 units will be made. E View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Lincoln’s SUVs are known for exceptional comfort, refinement, and luxury—not hardcore off-roading capabilities. This could change before the end of the decade, though. A two-row, body-on-frame Lincoln SUV is rumored to be on its way between 2029 and 2030, and it will be based on the same platform that underpins the rugged Ford Bronco. Aimed at the likes of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, Lexus GX, and Land Rover Range Rover, the new SUV will join the ranks of luxurious off-roaders. Lincoln’s Toughest SUV Yet? L News that Lincoln is working on a new SUV was shared with Autoweek, and a source specifically drew comparisons to the G-Class, one of the most formidable luxury off-roaders around. Sharing the Bronco’s platform suggests this will be a proper off-roader, as the Ford is a true Jeep Wrangler competitor. The Lincoln’s styling will likely be softer than the squared-off Bronco’s, though, and logic suggests the new vehicle will be similar to the current Nautilus in size. Ford is expected to reveal a new Bronco in 2031, so the Lincoln may share components with this model rather than the Bronco we have now. While no other details are known at this stage, Lincoln’s G-Class fighter could inherit the Bronco’s G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) driving modes, electronic locking differentials, Trail Control, and stabilizer bar disconnect. Cole Attisha One of Ford’s turbocharged V6 engines will likely power what should be a relatively large, heavy SUV. In the Bronco, the 2.7-liter version of this engine produces 330 horsepower, while the Bronco Raptor’s 3.0L mill generates 418 hp. Lincoln’s only other body-on-frame SUV is the mighty Navigator, but that’s a luxury-focused model that’s too bulky for serious off-roading. Even when the Bronco-based Lincoln SUV arrives, the Navigator is expected to remain the automaker’s flagship vehicle. Lincoln Needs a Shake-Up Lincoln In 2025, Lincoln managed a 2% increase in sales in the United States. However, that included sales of the Corsair, which has since been discontinued. Now down to just three models—the Navigator, Aviator, and Nautilus—Ford’s luxury brand needs more diversity if it is to hold off rapidly growing rivals like Genesis. An off-road-oriented SUV is certainly a starting point, and this vehicle could expand the limited perception of Lincoln products as great cruisers. More hybrid options, a replacement for the Corsair, and possibly a different body style of vehicle are all options that can broaden the appeal of one of America’s oldest luxury marques. The one segment Lincoln should probably steer clear of is pickup trucks, as neither the Blackwood nor the Mark LT managed to capture the public’s imagination. Lincoln’s possible pivot into the luxury off-road segment could endear the brand to a new group of fans, while differentiating it from domestic rivals like Cadillac and Buick, both of which have no products competing in the same space. If it succeeds, the new SUV could redefine what a Lincoln is. View the full article

Donut Lab’s Bold Solid-State Claims Under the MicroscopeAt CES 2026, Finnish startup Donut Lab surprised the EV industry by announcing what it described as the first commercially viable solid-state battery capable of ultra-fast charging and long service life. Many experts immediately questioned whether such performance was technically possible. The company has now released results from independent testing conducted by Finland’s VTT Technical Research Centre. The validation focuses on charging performance and represents the first third-party confirmation of Donut Lab’s claims. Charging remains one of the biggest ownership challenges for electric vehicles. Expanding charging networks have improved convenience, but recharge times still shape buyer confidence and usability. Donut Lab’s battery directly addresses this limitation. During testing, the solid-state cell sustained an 11C charging rate. The battery reached 80 percent charge in 4.5 minutes and achieved a full charge in just over seven minutes while maintaining nearly full energy capacity after discharge. The tests also showed that the battery operated without active cooling systems or extreme structural pressure. This simplifies battery pack design compared with many experimental solid-state concepts. Donut Lab previously demonstrated its five-minute charging ambitions, but independent verification strengthens credibility. Key claims such as 400 Wh/kg energy density and a projected 100,000-cycle lifespan still require further independent confirmation. Donut Lab Fraud AccusationsIndustry skepticism remains strong despite the successful charging demonstration. According to a report from Car News China, Yang Hongxin, chairman of Chinese battery manufacturer Svolt Energy, publicly described Donut Lab’s production-ready claims as fraudulent. He argued that the company’s specifications conflict with current technological limits. His comments reflect a broader industry position that fully commercial solid-state batteries are still years from large-scale deployment. The disagreement comes at a time of intense global competition. China has moved aggressively to define standards for solid-state batteries while investing heavily in research and manufacturing capacity. Japan and other major economies are also funding development programs tied to future EV competitiveness. Control of solid-state battery technology could determine leadership in the next phase of electrification. Donut Lab’s verified charging performance introduces uncertainty into established timelines. Even partial validation forces established manufacturers to reassess development assumptions. Competitors may accelerate testing programs and commercialization targets. The result is an increasingly competitive environment centered on next-generation battery chemistry. YouTube - @DonutLabOfficial The Holy Grail Remains ElusiveToyota continues to target the launch of solid-state battery vehicles later this decade. Company executives, along with leaders at Honda, have warned that expectations surrounding the technology may be exaggerated. Manufacturing complexity, durability validation, and cost scalability remain major engineering challenges. These barriers explain why commercialization timelines have repeatedly shifted across the industry. Donut Lab’s announcement generated strong reactions because solid-state batteries promise solutions to multiple EV limitations at once. Faster charging, improved safety, and higher energy density remain theoretical advantages. Translating laboratory performance into reliable mass production remains the difficult step. Success in controlled testing does not automatically guarantee performance in complete-vehicle battery packs. Regardless of the final outcome, the independent charging validation represents a significant moment for the EV industry. Solid-state batteries are no longer distant research projects. Automakers, suppliers, and governments are now competing to commercialize the technology first. The future competitive advantage in electric mobility increasingly depends on battery innovation rather than vehicle hardware alone. YouTube - @DonutLabOfficial View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Does Scotty Regret His Purchase?For decades, Scotty Kilmer built his reputation on one uncompromising message: never buy a new car. The veteran mechanic consistently warned viewers about depreciation, overcomplicated electronics, and long-term repair costs, instead championing older, proven vehicles. That’s why his decision to purchase a brand-new 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid at age 72 stunned followers. Kilmer framed the purchase as a rare exception driven by value, hybrid longevity, and practicality, even jokingly calling himself a hypocrite for finally going new. Importantly, Kilmer has not reversed his broader stance on new vehicles. His Camry ownership update suggests something more nuanced: he still believes most modern cars are overly complex, but considers Toyota’s hybrid system mature enough to justify long-term ownership. His latest video criticizing the car, therefore, doesn’t signal buyer’s remorse. Instead, it reflects Kilmer doing what he has always done: scrutinizing engineering decisions through the lens of durability and serviceability. He still likes the car overall, but views many of its modern features as compromises forced by regulation, efficiency targets, and evolving industry trends rather than pure mechanical improvement. Toyota View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Inside Scotty Kilmer’s Biggest Complaints About the 2026 Toyota CamryKilmer’s criticisms fall into three clear categories: build quality details, modern technology intrusion, and long-term ownership concerns. Under the hood, he points to a rattling hood prop rod and insufficient insulation mounting tabs, all minor issues, but notable because Toyota traditionally excels in assembly precision. More serious in his eyes is Toyota’s adoption of ultra-thin 0W-8 engine oil, which he argues prioritizes fuel-economy certification gains over mechanical longevity. He plans to switch to thicker 0W-16 oil despite factory recommendations, reflecting his long-standing skepticism toward efficiency-driven engineering changes. Inside the cabin, most complaints target usability rather than reliability. Kilmer dislikes the electronic parking brake for complicating DIY servicing, finds rear-seat reminder warnings intrusive, and criticizes the adaptive cruise control interface for replacing intuitive stalk controls with multi-button steering-wheel inputs. He also questions stylistic interior trim that intrudes into passenger legroom, calls the hybrid’s EV mode largely symbolic due to limited electric range, and expresses concern over synthetic leather durability. Notably, he still praises ride comfort and adaptive cruise performance itself, reinforcing that his objections center on how features are implemented rather than whether the Camry is fundamentally good. Toyota View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Hybrid RecallKilmer’s biggest concern references a real safety campaign affecting early production Camry Hybrids. Toyota recalled roughly 55,000 units of the 2025–2026 Camry and Corolla Cross Hybrids due to an improperly torqued bolt inside the hybrid inverter assembly. The defect could cause loss of motive power or, in extreme cases, a fire risk if electrical contact fails. Toyota confirmed owners would be notified once a repair remedy becomes available, with fixes performed free of charge. The issue ultimately stems from supplier manufacturing equipment rather than a flaw in Toyota’s hybrid design, though Kilmer criticized North American Camry production in Kentucky instead of Japan. His concern reflects a wider industry trend, as automakers expand U.S. manufacturing to offset tariffs and keep pace with booming hybrid demand, placing greater pressure on regional quality consistency. Even so, Kilmer’s criticism doesn’t undermine his purchase; he still considers the 2026 Camry one of the few modern cars worth buying new, viewing its shortcomings as evidence of the growing tension between Toyota’s durability-first reputation and an industry increasingly shaped by electrification, regulation, and globalized production. Toyota View the full article

This One Comes With a Parking OrderIgnoring recalls can pose a serious safety risk, and this latest campaign from Ford shows why they shouldn’t be taken lightly. The Blue Oval is recalling 15,965 units of the 2025 Transit after discovering that the brake booster pushrod may disconnect from the brake pedal — prompting the company to issue a “Do Not Drive” advisory for affected vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) recall report (26V090), certain Ford Transit models may have been assembled without the cotter pin and retainer clip on the brake pedal assembly. These small components secure the connection between the brake booster pushrod and the brake pedal. Without them, the pushrod could detach, increasing the risk of a crash. The defect also results in noncompliance with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 105, which governs hydraulic and electric brake systems. Ford The Investigation TimelineThe affected units were built between January 21 and April 25, 2025, at the Kansas City Assembly Plant, which also produces the Ford F-150. The issue was first flagged to Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) on December 11, 2025. About a month later, the company became aware of three warranty claims and two field reports tied to the condition. Fortunately, there have been no reported crashes or injuries associated with the defect to date. Ford noted that drivers may experience a “loose” or “wobbly” brake pedal feel if the condition is present. Given that the Ford Transit – a full-size van that competes with models like the Ram ProMaster and Chevrolet Express – is a large, heavy vehicle, it’s worth taking the “Do Not Drive” advisory seriously, even if it proves inconvenient. Ford is offering mobile service and dealer-coordinated towing to help ensure the repair is completed safely. Ford How Ford Plans to Address ItAffected customers will be notified about the recall between March 2 and March 6, 2026 – the same window during which Ford plans to notify Ford Escape PHEV and Lincoln Corsair PHEV owners about a separate high-voltage battery issue (26V091). For Transit owners, the fix involves properly installing and securing all required components of the brake pedal and brake booster pushrod assembly, at no cost to customers. After a challenging 2025, when Ford recorded 153 recalls – the highest total in its history – the Blue Oval has already issued 10 campaigns in 2026, the most on the list so far this year, according to NHTSA data. Among them are recalls covering more than 400,000 Explorers for a potential rear suspension fracture, along with another affecting over 119,000 vehicles due to a fire risk. Ford View the full article

Joe Gibbs Racing has amended its lawsuit against Chris Gabehart and has now extended those claims against Spire Motorsports while also asking the Western District of North Carolina to enforce a restraining order to prevent the pairing from continue working together. Spire Motorsports confirmed over the weekend at Atlanta Motor Speedway that it has hired Gabehart, a longtime engineer turned crew ...Keep readingView the full article

Turning Up the BoostThe 2026 Lotus Emira arrived in the U.S. with new trims and minor updates to the suspension and transmission, while retaining the same engine options. But over in Australia, Lotus introduced a special-edition variant producing more than 375 kW (500 horsepower) – effectively making it the most powerful factory-backed version to date. According to CarExpert, the special edition is called the Lotus Emira Turbo Bathurst Edition, named after the Australian city of Bathurst – home to the iconic Mount Panorama Circuit. Developed by Lotus’ Australian distributor, Simply Sports Cars, the retuned model is based on the Emira Turbo SE, which features a Mercedes-AMG-sourced 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four instead of the alternative 3.5-liter supercharged V6 supplied by Toyota. The 2.0L Gets ReworkedThe Mercedes-AMG-sourced engine produces up to around 400 horsepower – similar to the Toyota-sourced V6 – though the German unit delivers more torque. In this case, however, Simply Sports Cars did not disclose the exact torque figure, stating only that it sees a “substantial” increase. The Emira Turbo SE already accelerates from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 291 km/h (about 180 mph). However, Simply Sports Cars has not disclosed updated performance figures for the Bathurst Edition. The special edition is intended to emphasize track-focused capability, with Bathurst Edition decals and a GT4-inspired livery referencing the event's racing heritage. Lotus has also been taking its models to Bathurst events since 2005. Performance-wise, the car is equipped with three-way adjustable dampers, a revised wheel alignment, and a lower ride height – upgrades intended to improve stability and cornering. It also features AP Racing four-piston brake calipers at the front and rear, paired with two-piece ventilated brake discs. In addition, the package includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires as standard, with Yokohama A052 tires available as an option. Pay to PlayThe Lotus Emira Turbo Bathurst Edition is limited to just 15 examples, each priced from AUD 249,990 (approximately $176,000 at current exchange rates) – around AUD 40,000 ($28,000) more than the Emira Turbo SE. Given its Bathurst-specific branding, the special edition is expected to be offered exclusively in Australia. After all, Lotus has faced challenges in the U.S. market, including the impact of tariffs on imported vehicles implemented last year, which have affected market conditions for overseas manufacturers. For buyers seeking more power on paper, the Emira plug-in hybrid variant could deliver that, with reports suggesting a PHEV version of the Eletre could produce more than 900 horsepower. The Emira PHEV is expected to arrive around 2027, after Lotus adjusted its earlier plans to transition to an all-electric lineup following underwhelming initial sales of its EV models, the Eletre and Emeya. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Will the Real Defender Please Stand UpWhile we admire Land Rover for reviving the Defender, it's far from the vehicle that put the name on the map. The original Defender and the Series models that pre-dated it were no-nonsense workhorses that put utility and capability above comfort and refinement. If anything, it was probably allergic to those words. The new one is hugely talented off-road and incredibly well-mannered on it, but those looking for the charm and appeal of the old one have had to look elsewhere. Enter the Ineos Grenadier, and it's more than just a cosplay of the classic Defender. With three locking diffs, two solid axles, and suspension articulation that will make mountain goats proud, the Grenadier is a true old-school off-roader with modern mod-cons. It's not great on-road, but true adventurers will love its abilities. For those who complain about its on-road manners, this is not the 4x4 for you. Afzal Kahn/Instagram Channeling the Classic LookGiven its resemblance to the Defender and Series models, it was inevitable that the Grenadier would get kits to make it look ever more like the original article. One such package comes from Chelsea Trucks, and at first glance, we can forgive you if you mistake it for an older 110 Defender. It's rather amusing that a company called Chelsea Trucks would build such a thing. In England, the term Chelsea Tractor isn't exactly a positive thing and usually refers to luxury SUVs driven in affluent areas and never see a spec of dust in their lifetimes. The irony isn't lost on us at all. The kit comes from Project Kahn, and for those familiar with the Land Rover aftermarket scene, it's a name that's long been associated with the brand. But instead of giving the Grenadier its usual outlandish body kits and flared fenders, Project Kahn did the opposite and tapped into heritage. No surprises then that the SUV is called the Grenadier Heritage Remastered. Afzal Kahn/Instagram What It GetsThe Grenadier Heritage Remastered draws heavily on the Defender Heritage Edition from 2015. It's most apparent in its colorway, draped in a nostalgic shade of Grasmere Green. The white roof is another sweet retro touch that evokes images of classic Series models from days gone by. It then gets an egg-crate grille to draw more parallelisms with older Land Rovers, and it then rides on alloys made to resemble a set of steel rims. It doesn't get the tall and thin look that old Series models had, so stubby and block all-terrain tires had to do. There's another version that wears a more formal color, but the tweaks are pretty much the same. As for the interior, anyone interested can get any shade of trim they want, and throw in a couple more extras as far as their bank account can accommodate. Chelsea Trucks Other HighlightsThe heritage pack also comes with a special set of front and rear bumpers for the proper old-school four-wheel drive look. Headlight clusters were also changed, and it also has hidden LED driving lights behind the grille. Wider fenders are also part of the mods to accommodate the wider tires. As for the engine, it's unchanged from standard Grenadiers. That means a BMW-sourced 3.0-liter inline-six turbo, but detuned for this off-roader. Power is rated at 282 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, which is way less than what one would find in, say, an X5 xDrive40i. In Europe, there is also a diesel option from the BMW catalog, detuned to 245 hp and 405 lb-ft. The price? It can be yours for £79,999. Convert that to U.S. dollars, and you're looking at about $108,000. For reference, a Grenadier station wagon starts at $72,600, so it's a pretty pricey upgrade to avail. Still, for those who miss the classic Defender look, you can get this kit through ECD Auto Designs in America. View the full article