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The battle over the future of the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway property continued this week with a pair of noteworthy developments from the coalition assembled to preserve motorsports in Downtown Music City. Most notably, a lawsuit was filed by former racer Neil Chaffin challenging an anti-speedway group's efforts to put a de facto motorsports ban on the ballot on November 3. Specifically ...Keep readingView the full article

Not Quite the FarewellAfter Alfa Romeo unveiled what were believed to be the final Quadrifoglio versions of the Giulia and Stelvio with the Collezione editions late last year, the Italian marque reopened orders for the performance-oriented models. However, there’s a catch: production is running only through 2027, and the revived Quadrifoglio variants will not be offered in the U.S. Instead, the reopened order books are exclusively for Europe. The decision is said to be tied to Alfa Romeo’s move to extend the current-generation Giulia and Stelvio through 2027, as well as in response to demand from enthusiasts. The announcement was made at the Brussels Motor Show 2026, where the ultra-limited Giulia Quadrifoglio Luna Rossa was also unveiled. Stellantis A Cloverleaf Loved by EnthusiastsAlfa Romeo CEO Santo Ficili spoke about reopening the order books for the Quadrifoglio models, saying, “As announced at the recent Brussels Motor Show 2026, we're reopening orders for the Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio, to keep to a promise made to customers of ours who pay the most attention to the extreme performance and pure emotions inherent in Alfa Romeo's DNA.” The Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio models enjoy strong support from enthusiasts, with the former regarded as a legitimate rival to the BMW M3. No changes are planned for the renewed production run, meaning they will continue to use the same 2.9-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 520 horsepower. The engine is widely understood to share its core architecture with Ferrari’s F154 V8 family – found in models such as the 488 GTB and SF90 Stradale – just with two fewer cylinders. Carbon fiber is used in components such as the driveshaft, aerodynamic body elements, and interior trim to reduce weight while maintaining rigidity – helping improve performance on track. The models also feature an Akrapovič exhaust system for a more distinctive soundtrack, along with a mechanical limited-slip differential to enhance traction, torque distribution, and stability. Stellantis Looking Ahead to the Next ChapterThe Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio exited the North American market in 2024, leaving the current U.S.-spec versions powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 280 horsepower. Meanwhile, Alfa Romeo also offers a third model, the Tonale, which is positioned as a more affordable crossover alternative to the Stelvio. Reports suggest that the Giulia and Stelvio will be replaced by all-electric and hybrid successors expected in 2027. The hybrid variants are rumored to adopt a hybridized version of the Dodge Charger’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane inline-6, as the next-generation models are expected to ride on the same STLA Large architecture. Stellantis View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Heavyweight Challenger — LiterallyYes, we've seen all the memes and stories about the all-new RS 5's weight, but we're still glad that Audi makes such cars. Even better, it still has six cylinders, so it'll at least sound decent. It also means that the battle for (not so) high-performance compact executive sedan supremacy lives on, and that's good news for everyone. For over 30 years, Audi has been butting heads with BMW and Mercedes-Benz in this category. And while comparison tests will have their own declared winners, all the cars in that class have their rabid fans. In the case of the RS 5, its main target is the BMW M3 and Mercedes-AMG C63. We'd like to point out that the current iterations of the M3 and C63 are on the way out. The BMW is taking the six-cylinder plug-in hybrid route, while the AMG is ditching the four-cylinder soon. Mind you, it's AMG that started the whole plug-in hybrid thing in this class of car in the first place. Audi Pulling PowerThe Audi RS 5 wades into battle with a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 just like its previous generation. But this time around, it gets a plug-in hybrid system bolted on, giving it class-leading horsepower and torque. Those powertrain systems combined deliver 630 hp and 608 lb-ft of torque. The engine alone makes 503 hp, a significant increase over last year's model's 444 hp. However, those stats are still eclipsed by the Mercedes-AMG C63's total combined output. Affalterbach's hot PHEV sedan makes 671 hp and 752 lb-ft of torque. We'll address the elephant in the room: it's a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, boosted to kingdom come. Yes, it makes the power, but where's the soundtrack? As for BMW, the current M3 sticks to a tried-and-true recipe with no electrification tricks whatsoever. There's the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six, good for 473 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, and the Competition version, which raises that to 503 hp and 479 lb-ft. Go for xDrive all-wheel drive, and you get an extra 20 hp. It's the least powerful on paper, but that's just one part of the equation. Weighing the ScalesWe now live in a day and age where anything under 4,000 lbs is considered light for a performance sedan. With that, the flyweight of this group is easily the BMW M3 with the standard non-Competition model at 'just' 3,890 lbs. That's as light as they come in this group, but it's actually (slightly) heavier than an E60 M5, which tipped the scales at 3,869 lbs — with a stonking V10 under the hood. Oh, what a world we live in today. The next car is nearly 1,000 lbs heavier than the M3, and that's the C63 at 4,817 lbs. Do the math, and that's exactly 927 lbs more than the BMW. Of course, the reason for that is the plug-in hybrid system. Batteries and motors are not light, folks. But the AMG is a featherweight to the new RS 5. The all-new RS 5 weighs a whopping 5,129 lbs. The Avant version, which America won't be getting in the near future, drives up that number to 5,225 lbs. It's even heavier than the RS 6 Avant, and just a few hundred pounds away from the much larger SQ7. Impressive, but for all the wrong reasons. Keyboard Drag RaceThere is a spread of about 200 horsepower between the least-powerful and most-powerful models. With that in mind, acceleration times should be straightforward, right? Well, no. Also, remember that there's 1,239 lbs between the lightest and heaviest cars here. Audi claims a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 3.6 seconds for the RS 5, so its 0 to 60 mph time is probably around 3.4 to 3.5 seconds. As for the C63, AMG lists 3.3 seconds for its official 0 to 60 time. BMW's claimed numbers for the M3 are 4.1 seconds for the base RWD manual and 3.4 seconds for the Competition xDrive. All that horsepower advantage, and they're all virtually tied to get to 60 mph. Weight, in this case, is the great equalizer here. Audi Final ThoughtsFor the RS 5, we'll reserve judgment until we get to drive one. That said, we do have several things to say about the M3 and C63 in their current forms. We had rather mixed reactions in our C63 review, mainly because of the car's complexity, and the feel behind the wheel was best described as competent but not exactly thrilling. It's fast, yes, but it doesn't deliver much drama. At the other end of the scale, the M3 was fun and engaging while making the right sounds. We want the RS 5 to be more like the M3 than the C63. More specifically, we want all three cars to be more like the soon-to-be-outgoing M3. Admittedly, the next-gen M3's shift to electrification has us a little worried, as it's inevitable that it'll gain a lot of pounds in the process. As for the AMG, the return of six-cylinders is welcome news, but we won't know for sure how it drives until the updated C-Class appears later this year. View the full article

The all-new Audi RS5, which comes in sedan and wagon body styles as it replaces both the previous-generation RS5 Sportback and the RS4 Avant, is Audi Sport's first high-performance plug-in hybrid model. As BMW has shown with its current M5 PHEV, going down the plug-in hybrid route does come with a big downside: the weight goes up significantly. Unfortunately, the Audi RS5 makes no exception, and while everyone expected it to be heavy given the complex powertrain that includes a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6, an electric motor, a high-voltage battery pack, and a hybridized 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox, the actual curb weight will probably blow you mind. Heavier Than Some Ford F-150 Variants Audi The stated curb weight of the 2027 Audi RS5 sedan is 5,192 pounds (2,355 kg), which makes it a whopping 1,376 pounds (624 kg) heavier than its predecessor, the 2024 Audi RS5 Sportback. And if you go for the RS5 Avant wagon, you'll have to settle for a curb weight of 5,225 lbs (2,370 kg). That's a huge increase over the outgoing RS4 Avant, which weighed 4,012 lbs (1,820 kg). That's quite a lot of pounds for a midsize car, and to put things into perspective, the new RS5 is actually the heaviest Audi Sport production car to date; only the RS Q8 SUV trumps it with a curb weight of 5,434 pounds. The new RS5 is also heavier than many larger performance vehicles. For example, the base Porsche Taycan electric sedan, which packs a much larger battery, tips the scales at 4,630 lbs, while the V8-powered Audi RS6 Avant wagon weighs 5,016 pounds. Even some four-door Ford F-150 pickup truck variants are lighter than the 2027 RS5, which is downright ridiculous. The F-150 SuperCrew 4x4 with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine weighs around 4,500 pounds; mind you, there are many other lighter F-150 configurations. At least the new RS5 sedan is lighter than the BMW M5 (5,532 lbs), although the latter is a bigger, more powerful vehicle. I'm sure you can find more examples of bigger vehicles that are lighter than the RS5, but you get the point. It's Not All Bad Audi While the RS5's curb weight is not great news for a high-performance vehicle, it's worth noting that the power-to-weight ratio of the new model has remained unchanged from the old one at 0.121 hp/lb, as The Drive points out. That's due to new RS5's major bump in power, as the plug-in hybrid system delivers a total of 630 hp and 608 lb-ft of torque compared to 444 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque before. The performance is also improved, at least on paper. Zero to 62 mph takes 3.6 seconds, whereas the previous RS5 Sportback needed 3.8 seconds to cover the same sprint. But the biggest improvement—at least for those who asked for it—is that now you can cruise silently around town on battery power alone, as the 2027 RS5 offers an all-electric range of up to 52 miles. Obviously, the fuel efficiency is higher when the battery chips in—up to 61.9 mpg non-EPA estimate. Mind you, when the battery is drained, it's a totally different story as the claimed rating drops to a minimum of 23.1 mpg because of the extra weight. View the full article

The naturally aspirated engine may be on its last legs, even for Porsche's iconic GT3 line. More stringent emissions regulations have already robbed the 992.2 GT3 of torque compared to the 992.1 model (347 lb-ft dropped to 332 lb-ft), and before its 4.0-liter flat-six is gone for good, it seems that Stuttgart is preparing to give the free-breathing flat-six a special send-off, reports The Supercar Blog. Last year, imagery depicting a pre-production prototype of what appeared to be a drop-top 911 GT3 was shared on social media (embedded below), and now TSB is reporting that this mystery model will debut next month with the name GT3 Sport Cabriolet. Here's what we know so far. GT3 Sport Cabriolet to Be a GT3 Touring with a Soft Top The spy images showed a car that appears to draw from several sources. At the rear, the centrally-mounted twin-exit exhaust indicates that the car is an iteration of the GT3 — no mystery there. The retractable rear spoiler points to the slightly more comfort-oriented approach of the GT3 Touring, likely because the regular GT3's large rear wing would be out of place on a convertible. The front fenders, however, come from something more special: the 911 S/T. This implies that the 911 Sport Cabrio may be a little more hardcore than a 911 Touring drop-top would, potentially using the 518-horsepower engine from the GT3 RS and combining it with a manual transmission. It will surely also feature Heritage Design elements and likely a special variety of paint choices. Thus, it's safe to say that this will be a limited edition with a hefty asking price deep in six-figure territory. Related: 1,139 HP Wasn’t Enough — Porsche Is Building an Even Wilder Electric Cayenne The 911 S/T was released in 2023 in a limited run of 1,963 units to celebrate 60 years of the 911 model line, which started in 1963; perhaps this so-called 911 GT3 Sport Cabriolet will honor 63 years since '63. Or perhaps the production run will be a nod to some milestone or model from Porsche's history. The 997 Porsche 911 Speedster was limited to 356 units as a tip of the hat to the model of the same name, and the 991 Speedster to 1,948 units in reference to the No.1 Porsche 356 Roadster from 1948, the first car to bear the Porsche name. It's also worth noting that Stuttgart celebrated 75 years of Porsche Motorsport last week, with the Type 514 356 SL winning its class at the 1951 24 Hours of Le Mans. Plenty of numbers could be played with here. Why Porsche May Be Forgoing a 911 Speedster to Make a GT3 Cabrio Porsche The 997 911 Speedster and the 991 Speedster were both infused with high-performance GT division elements and thus made open-air Porsches cool, but they're impractical. Of course, practicality is a relative term in the Porsche world, especially when we're talking about a two-seater with no fixed roof, but Speedsters' roof systems are notoriously tricky to use. In the 997, you release the carbon fiber double-bubble cover using a switch in the cabin, then get out of the car, lift that carbon cover, pull the folding roof over to the windshield, latch two fabric "wings" into the decklid manually, and then use the same switch for the cover to automatically latch the roof in place. Folding the roof down was a similarly convoluted process, and although it was supposedly simplified for the 991, the process was nearly identical. Yes, one person can stow or install the roof, but it's still time-consuming and less than ideal during a sudden downpour. If we had to guess, the 911 GT3 Sport Cabriolet is effectively replacing the Speedster to make wealthy buyers happier, creating a more luxurious vehicle that's easier to use. This new variant would also keep the Speedster option open for the end of the 992 life cycle, as has been the case with previous Speedsters. View the full article

That Escalated QuicklyGeneral Motors’ 2.0-liter LSY turbocharged inline-four is still a relatively new engine, so widespread long-term issues remain unclear. However, the example from a 2021 Buick Envision acquired by Eric from I Do Cars wasn’t as fortunate. Despite showing just 24,491 miles on the odometer, this particular LSY had already been sold as a core. The LSY is produced at GM’s Spring Hill plant in Tennessee, while the Buick Envision itself is assembled in China through the GM-SAIC joint venture. The engine is used in several models, including the Chevrolet Blazer and Cadillac XT4, and in the Envision, it produces 228 horsepower. Unlike engines with substantial mileage, extensive internal damage wasn’t necessarily expected during this teardown. Still, the inspection offered an opportunity to determine exactly where this particular power unit ultimately failed. A Troubled PastThe engine was pulled from a wrecked Envision that had been declared a total loss. The vehicle was originally sold in Missouri before eventually being acquired by a salvage yard in Michigan. With several components missing, Eric assumed the engine had already been partially dismantled and that some of its parts had been sold off. There wasn’t much visible damage to the internal components. However, some notable red flags were wear on the timing chain guide and carbon buildup in the intake ports — both somewhat concerning for an engine with fewer than 25,000 miles. The most significant issue was found around the piston crowns, which showed heavy carbon deposits. The oil control rings were also stuck, suggesting excessive oil consumption. I Do Cars/YouTube Where Things Went WrongSeveral factors could have contributed to this irregularity, including the use of low-quality fuel, poor oil quality, and a lack of spirited driving. Without occasionally getting on the throttle, the engine oil may not consistently reach optimal operating temperature, potentially reducing its effectiveness. If those were the primary causes, the issue may be more related to maintenance and usage patterns than to an inherent design flaw. The next-generation Envision could adopt a new engine — potentially even a hybrid powertrain — though nothing has been confirmed as of this writing. What has been reported is that production will shift to GM’s Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas beginning in 2028, effectively ending the model’s China-built status. Whether that ultimately proves beneficial remains to be seen, but the move would shield the model from tariffs associated with importing from China. I Do Cars/YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Part of the Toyota Supra’s status as an automotive cult icon doubtless comes from its starring role in 2001’s The Fast and the Furious, where a modified orange fourth-generation Supra is driven extensively by Brian O’Conner, portrayed by the late Paul Walker. One of the franchise’s most recognisable cars, it’s spawned countless real-life replicas and tributes, most based on the same A80 generation as the star car. This one, though, is a little different – it’s a modern-day homage to the Fast and the Furious Supra, based on the reborn (and soon to die) BMW-powered GR Supra, and it could soon be yours. One of 500 Mecum Auctions Going under the hammer at Mecum’s Glendale, Arizona sale on March 21, this is already quite a special GR Supra, even before you get to the raft of extensive modifications. That’s because it’s one of 500 2023 A91-MT Editions of the sports car, launched to celebrate the introduction of a manual transmission to the model after several years on sale in auto-only form. Admittedly, this was only a visual package, and most of the changes it brought have been hidden away by the modifications the car’s had since, although the Hazelnut leather that was exclusive to the A91-MT for 2023 is still intact. Regardless, the fact it’s a one-of-500 special edition is one of the less remarkable things about this car. A Movie Tribute and a Widebody Makeover Mecum Auctions The car’s transformation began when it arrived at Calgary, Alberta-based tuning shop DRVN Society. As well as giving it a PPF wrap inspired by the livery seen on the movie-starring car, DRVN also fitted it with the other noticeable visual upgrade: an outrageous widebody kit from Japanese outfit Liberty Walk. It’s not a purely visual makeover, either: the car’s also been fitted with an uprated turbo kit from TurboSystems and a billet intake manifold from CSF. No numbers are given, but it’s safe to say the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six is making more than the 382 HP and 368 LB-FT it left the factory with. A Matching Pair Mecum Auctions If you’re a real Fast and Furious ultrafan, then there’s a chance to pick up this modern tribute to Brian’s Supra alongside a more traditional homage to the original. DRVN also modified a 1993 A80 Supra Twin-Turbo into a direct replica of the movie car, complete with a host of upgrades of its own, and it too is going up for sale at the same auction. There’s no estimate given for either, but it’s safe to assume that if you’re rocking up to Glendale next month with the aim of picking up this matching pair, you’d better have a fairly healthy bank balance. View the full article

Saving the FormulaThe current Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND) has been on the market for more than a decade, making discussion about its next-generation successor almost inevitable. At the same time, the broader auto industry’s push toward sustainability means some level of electrification is widely expected for the upcoming model. However, Mazda suggests there may be another path. Instead of going fully electric or adopting a hybrid setup, the automaker argues that using sustainable fuels could be the better solution. Mazda Motor Europe Director of Research & Operations Christian Schultze said in an interview with AutoRAI.nl that synthetic fuel would allow the MX-5 to retain the qualities that define it today, including its light weight and balanced handling. Because this approach would require fewer structural changes than adding a battery pack, it would help preserve the model’s core character, which could otherwise be affected by the added mass of electrification. Sebastian Cenizo/Autoblog A Different Kind of GreenSchultze said, “For a model like the MX-5, which relies so heavily on lightness, balance, and mechanical purity, that (the use of synthetic fuel) is a very logical route. The moment you go fully electric, you fundamentally change the architecture of the car.” He added, “That's why I say, when it comes to the most direct and technically least drastic way to become more sustainable, synthetic fuels are the most obvious solution.” Now, as fitting as synthetic fuel may be to the overall character of the MX-5 Miata, turning that idea into reality is easier said than done. Producing synthetic fuel remains expensive — something Porsche, which backs an e-fuel program in Chile, is well aware of. Mazda itself has also invested in the technology and has even raced an MX-5 Miata on synthetic fuel in Japan’s ENEOS Super Taikyu Series. Cole Attisha Racing Toward AlternativesPolicy support could help offset some of those costs. However, much of the regulatory momentum in recent years has favored battery-electric vehicles, an area Mazda has approached cautiously. Mazda isn’t ruling out electrification altogether. In fact, the company even painted a picture of “driving through the woods” without engine noise when the top is down. Mild electrification is also being considered, ideally combined with carbon-neutral fuel, according to Schultze. However, Schultze noted that Mazda will ultimately move in the direction policies and regulations permit. While some reports suggest the company could collaborate with Toyota on the next-generation MX-5 Miata, nothing concrete has been officially confirmed. Sebastian Cenizo/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

With no right-front fender, Tyler Reddick won last weekend's NASCAR Cup race in Atlanta, going back-to-back to open the 2026 season. While impressive, it's not unprecedented. NASCAR is a full-contact sport in the end and we've seen plenty of race winning cars take the checkered flag in less-than-ideal shape. So, let's take a look at some of the most beat up cars to win at the highest level ...Keep readingView the full article

Owning a Ford Explorer can be a frustrating experience, and the latest recall illustrates this. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Ford is recalling certain 2017-2019 Explorer SUVs because their rear suspension toe links may fracture. Some 412,774 vehicles are affected, but what makes this recall particularly irritating for owners is that it concerns a problem that has plagued the SUV in the past. The NHTSA says that this is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall 21V537, in which 644,055 examples of the 2013-2017 Explorer were named. In other words, upgrading to the newer 2017-2019 Explorer hasn't rid owners of the problem. Serious Suspension Issue in Ford Explorer SUVs Ford According to the NHTSA recall report, cross-axis ball joint parts and rear suspension toe links may fracture under certain loading conditions. This particular combination of parts was first used in production in May 2017 and was taken out of production in March 2019. SAF was named as one of the manufacturers in this recall, while the recall for 2013-2017 Explorers names ZF Friedrichshafen (the latter is best known for producing BMW gearboxes). The recall report states that "the root cause has not been fully determined to date," but the fact that two different manufacturers have been used with the same problem appearing indicates that manufacturing processes may not be at fault, and the design of these components may simply be incapable of handling the loads exerted by the loaded SUV. Related: Ford’s New EV Shifter Could Control Nearly Everything in the Car Some reports from 2021 say that vehicles experienced a seized cross-axis ball joint, which appears to have caused the toe link to bend. This may lead to a fracture, which ultimately can cause clunking noises, unusual handling, and/or a misaligned rear wheel, says the NHTSA. In 2021, Ford's internal review committee found evidence of corrosion in seized ball joints, and each instance at the time came from vehicles operated in areas of the U.S. and Canada known to use road salt. Others had a sealing failure, and new parts made by SAF aimed to address this problem. But in January 2026, the NHTSA informed Ford that vehicles with the supposedly improved parts were still suffering from fractured rear toe links. Ford Explorer Suspension Issue Can Cause Crashes Ford The report states that Ford is aware of two accidents globally that may be related to the suspension problem. In these instances, the Explorer SUVs have hit road guardrails or barriers following the toe link fracture. Indeed, sudden loss of handling ability can have severe consequences. Fortunately, Ford is not aware of any injuries potentially related to the problem, so we presume that these crashes happened at relatively low speeds. Ford expects to notify dealers of the recall program on February 25 (VINs will also be searchable tomorrow), but owners of potentially affected Explorer SUVs will only be notified by mail from March 9-13, so they have a long wait ahead before a fix is provided. View the full article

If there's one thing the Mazda MX-5 Miata has lacked over its four-decade career, it's power. With the exception of some limited edition models that peaked at around 200 hp, the small roadster has never offered high-power engines. To be fair, the current Mazda MX-5's 181-hp 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gas engine is more than enough for a car that weighs 2,366 pounds, but some Miata fans wouldn't mind having over 200 horsepower in their cars. Well, what do you know, Mazda has been perfectly aware of that for a long time, and at one point some of its engineers actively explored the possibility of shoehorning a V6 engine into the Miata's engine bay. Engineers Built a Miata V6 Prototype in Secret Mazda's head of research and development in Europe, Christian Schultze, told Dutch magazine AutoRAI in an interview that several company engineers built a secret V6-powered Miata prototype around two decades ago. As it turns out, the project wasn't an official one; instead, the said engineers took it upon themselves to cram a 2.5-liter V6 engine into the Miata, and they did that quietly after hours. That sounds surprisingly similar to how the original VW Golf GTI came to be, but unlike the GTI, which went on to become a global legend, the Miata V6 never made it to showrooms. The main reason was, as you can imagine, packaging. In order to fit, the six-cylinder engine had to be mounted higher than the regular four-cylinder, and that ruined the Miata's aesthetics. While it didn't convince in the looks department, the one-off prototype was "definitely interesting" to drive, Schultz revealed. That said, it was probably not interesting enough to warrant a production version, as stuffing a heavier V6 engine in the engine bay of the featherweight Miata likely upset its perfect weight distribution, making it nose heavy. Now, had Mazda really wanted to build a V6 Miata, it would have done it, but modifying the roadster likely required too much work and didn't make economic sense. What Might Have Been That's too bad, because a six-cylinder Miata would have been a special thing. The Mazda exec did not reveal which V6 engine was mounted on the MX-5 prototype, but given the 2.5-liter displacement, it was probably a K-series unit. The KL-ZE engine made up to 200 hp and 165 lb-ft of torque in the larger Mazda MX-6 coupe offered exclusively in the Japanese market until 1997, making this particular V6 a terrific choice for the tiny MX-5. Since Schultz mentioned that the Miata V6 experiment took place 20 years ago, that probably means the larger engine was fitted to the then freshly launched 2006 Miata. That would make sense because the NC generation had a larger body, providing more room in the engine bay for the V6. At the time, the NC Miata packed 170 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque from the MZR 2.0-liter four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, which means that the V6 would have added a healthy supplement of 30 hp and 25 lb-ft of torque. While the Miata V6 never came to be, Mazda did offer some powerful special edition models over the years, including the Japan-only Spirit Racing Roadster 12R developed by the automaker's racing division. Limited to 200 units that sold out in record time, this special MX-5 features an upgraded naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine that produces 197 hp, making it the most powerful factory MX-5 Miata yet. View the full article

Changing It Up a BitWith a stagnant home market, Tesla is looking to capitalize on selling abroad. In fact, in some regions, the brand is quickly gaining momentum in sales. Different market conditions also dictate demands, and in places like China, length and space are a big deal. We've seen the Tesla Model Y L in China, which offers an option for six seats, unlike the standard two-row seating that the rest of the world is used to. It seems that this country-specific unit is headed elsewhere. Tesla Maximizing SizeIn a report by CarExpert, an Australian launch of the Tesla Model Y L is set. The report claims that there are Australian Government certification documents indicating the model, pointing to a launch reckoned to take place as early as this year. The Y L has a six-inch longer wheelbase and a seven-inch increase in overall length compared to the standard Model Y. This increase in space gives Tesla the option to throw in a third row, making the second row captain chairs, and going for a bench type at the back; a 2+2+2 configuration to be exact. Another welcome advantage of the six-seater is additional luggage capacity, bumped up from 2,138 Liters to 2,539 Liters. There are some features to distinguish the Y L from the Y; it comes with different rims and emblems. Approval documents indicate that the Y L will be available as a dual-motor AWD option. It's the same powertrain and battery capacity as the Premium Long Range variant, with power output around 506 hp. The total range in Australia might be 372 miles (WLTP), but the Y L was also approved for a European debut back in 2025, with a longer range capacity of 423 miles (WLTP). Tesla Possible SpecsIn China, the Model Y L comes with power, heated, and ventilated second-row seats, while the third row is heated and can be folded automatically. Its suspension has been reworked to provide continuously variable damping to better cope with the extra load. In terms of price, the Model YL is around $3,886 (converted) more than the equivalent Model Y. The Australian Model Y L will come from China, where most Tesla Model Ys are made. It'll be interesting to see just how much more demand there will be for a three-row Model Y, but given market trends, it might be the preferred option if introduced to the rest of the world. Tesla View the full article

The auto industry may be getting a bit of a reprieve from the latest round of tariffs enacted by Pres. Donald Trump following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision announced last Friday finding most of his early import duties were illegal. But automakers and auto suppliers still face earlier tariffs on imported vehicles, parts and metals not covered by the court’s ruling. And that means auto buyers will continue to pay substantially inflated prices at a time when many potential customers have been driving out of the market. Getty Images A new study by CatalystIQ found prices for some vehicles have risen by as much as $4,000 since last autumn due to Trump’s tariffs, the figure varying widely depending upon where vehicles are produced. Related: Supreme Court Rules Against Trump Tariffs — But Automakers Aren’t Off the Hook Sidestepping the Auto Industry“I’m trying to unravel all the pieces (but) the auto industry is no better off than before,” said Tyson Jominy, lead data analyst with JD Power. The Supreme Court ruled most of the tariffs the president enacted last spring violate constitutional separations of power. While that ruling covered tariffs on a wide range of products imported into the US, it did not include automotive goods. Getty Images Duties on foreign-made autos and auto parts were enacted under separate rules and remain in place, as do tariffs on imported steel and aluminum. When those were enacted last April, Trump signed a pair of directives preventing various levies from piling atop one another further raising the impact on the auto industry. But that means the SCOTUS ruling last week leaves automotive tariffs in place. Trump Fires BackThough it was widely expected that the court would overturn most of the general tariffs Trump enacted, the move triggered an angry response from the president. Among other things, he accused the six justices who ruled against him of being under “foreign influences.” In turn, Trump immediately turned to separate authority to enact a new 10% global import tariffs. Then, on Saturday, he boosted that figure to 15%. That triggered initial panic in automotive circles. The American Automotive Policy Council, which represents Detroit’s three automakers – General Motors, Ford and Stellantis – quickly reached out to the White House for clarification. The new tariffs could have added billions of additional costs for manufacturers already largely swallowing billions of dollars in costs from the earlier auto import tariffs. ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP via Getty Images The good news, at least as far as the auto industry is concerned, is that the White House has again signaled it won’t pile the new, 15% global tariffs on top of what the industry is already saddled with. So, for now, the situation “remain largely unchanged,” said Erin Keating, head of automotive research for Cox Automotive. But Trump’s latest move, she cautioned, “underscores how fluid the trade environment has become.” And with a president willing to act out of whim and anger when it comes to trade, Keating – as well as several industry executives who spoke to Autoblog on background – warned this could lead automakers to delay critical investment plans. What About Consumers?The good news appears to be that the latest Trump tariffs won’t have any impact on vehicle prices. The bad news is that the Supreme Court ruling won’t have any impact on vehicle prices. Getty Images All told, Cox Automotive estimated manufacturers like GM, Ford, Hyundai and Toyota collectively paid about $25 billion in tariffs. If there’s a silver lining for consumers it’s that “You can’t pass on all tariff expenses to consumers,” said Jominy, especially at a time when “affordability” has reached crisis level, analysts estimating millions of consumers are being driven out of the new vehicle market. As a result, automakers took a big hit to earnings last year and are expected to be in the same situation in 2026. That said, some brands are starting to test the waters, beginning to pass on more tariff costs. Porsche, in particular, raised prices in January, the second time it did so since last summer, blaming tariffs. Related: Ford Considers Letting Chinese Automakers Build Cars in America Even with manufacturers still swallowing most of the costs, vehicle prices have been rising. Power puts the figure at about 2.5% of the price of a typical vehicle. Considering the average transaction price is currently around a record $50,000, that would work out to around $1,250. CatalystIQ, meanwhile, says the impact varies widely, largely due to the way tariffs are applied to different trade partners. Its study, which tracked vehicle price hikes since last autumn, found Canadian-made vehicles are up an average $4,000, with those from Mexico rising by $1,500. Even American-made vehicles were hit due to the use of foreign-made parts and metal. Automakers Play Wait and See Stellantis Though Pres. Trump’s latest tariffs appear to be largely a backlash to the Supreme Court ruling, he has argued that trade sanctions are needed to convince the corporate world to shift more manufacturing back to the U.S. So far, the results are questionable. U.S. employment, in general, grew at a slower pace in 2025, according to federal data. The manufacturing sector actually shed about 68,000 jobs, according to KPMG, a large chunk of that coming from the auto industry. The data shows that about 10,000 of those lost jobs came from the Detroit Big Three. There has been some movement towards bringing back some automotive manufacturing, companies like GM, Honda and Stellantis shifting some products from Canada and Mexico back to the States. The most significant announcement was made by Hyundai which expects to spend $26 billion to boost U.S. auto production, build robots and set up a steel mill in Louisiana. But Jominy, Keating and other analysts caution that it could take years to reshape the global manufacturing system – with many manufacturers simply biding their time waiting to see what the next moves by the Trump administration might bring. View the full article

Hyundai Teams Up With PokémonHyundai Motor Co. has announced a new collaboration with Pokémon Korea Inc., introducing Pokémon-themed digital display packages designed to enhance personalization in its latest vehicles. The automaker revealed two themes, “Pokémon Pikachu Quick Attack” and “Pokémon Ditto World Theme.” These themes are integrated into Hyundai’s connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) infotainment system. Owners can customize their instrument cluster and infotainment visuals with character graphics, themed navigation guidance, and animated startup and shutdown sequences. The themes are available on several key models, including the all-new Palisade SUV, the next-generation Nexo hydrogen fuel-cell EV, and electric models such as the Ioniq 6 and Ioniq 9. HYUNDAI View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Pokémon Makes Strategic SenseAutomotive and anime collaborations often focus on nostalgia among enthusiasts. Projects inspired by Initial D, including customized Toyota GT86 builds, typically celebrate drifting culture and performance driving. These collaborations mainly target dedicated car enthusiasts and motorsport fans. Pokémon reaches a much broader global audience and extends beyond traditional automotive culture. The partnership also aligns naturally with Hyundai’s electrification strategy. Pikachu is one of the most recognizable electric-themed characters in popular culture. Featuring Pokémon visuals in EV-focused models such as the Ioniq lineup creates a relatable connection between advanced technology and familiarity. Instead of focusing on performance metrics, Hyundai presents electrification as approachable and engaging. This approach may help younger buyers feel more comfortable with EV adoption. Hyundai Reaching A Generation That May Not Want Cars At AllThe collaboration arrives at a time when automakers face changing consumer attitudes toward ownership. Research shows that nearly half of Americans aged 18 to 34 are not interested in owning cars. Rising ownership costs and alternative mobility options continue to reshape priorities among younger consumers. Automakers must now find new ways to make vehicles appealing to digitally connected audiences. Entertainment partnerships like this help reposition vehicles as lifestyle products rather than simple transportation tools. Hyundai is attempting to connect cars with personal identity and digital expression. Younger consumers already customize smartphones, gaming systems, and online profiles. Bringing a similar level of personalization to vehicles could rebuild emotional interest in car ownership and spark renewed enthusiasm for driving. Hyundai View the full article

Mercedes Being Careful with the Baby GThe 'baby' Mercedes-Benz G-Class is definitely on the way – that much has been certain for a while now. What’s been less obvious is how Mercedes planned to power it, especially after the lukewarm response to the electric G-Class with EQ Technology. At first, the smaller off-roader was set to be electric-only. However, Mercedes has expressed uncertainty about this plan since last year. With EV demand varying by region and regulations constantly shifting, Mercedes decided to change direction. Now, the compact G-Class will be available with both internal combustion and electric drivetrains. Production is expected to start in 2027, though there’s talk that it could hit the market even sooner. Mercedes-Benz Sitting on a Bespoke PlatformThe project is known internally as 'Little G.’ The automaker has one goal in mind with the nameplate: make it feel like a true G-Class, not just a crossover with familiar styling, according to Autocar. To do that, Mercedes is building it on a dedicated platform, reportedly with a ladder-frame chassis, to ensure it retains its off-road credentials. Under the hood, buyers can expect a hybridized 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine – already proven in the CLA – or a dual-motor electric setup using Mercedes’ latest eATS technology. Both versions should come standard with four-wheel drive and advanced torque management, delivering the same go-anywhere feel as the full-size G. In terms of size, the five-seat Little G should come in at about 173 inches long – noticeably smaller and lower than the current G-Class, which measures over 190 inches. The design sticks to the classic formula: upright stance, round headlights, exposed indicators, and a rear-mounted spare. Mercedes-Benz The TimelineProduction is set for 2027, with the electric version arriving first and the hybrid following a bit later. There’s no official word yet on an official US arrival, but given the market potential, it’s hard to imagine Mercedes skipping the compact SUV stateside. Of note, the German marque is positioning the as-yet-unnamed Little G against a new wave of purpose-built off-roaders, such as the upcoming Toyota Land Cruiser FJ and the European Ford Bronco. Unlike the bulk of urban SUVs available today, these models emphasize rugged styling and genuine trail capability – territory where the G-Class badge still holds significant appeal. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

It's only been a few months since the most powerful production Porsche ever was unveiled as the 1,139-horsepower Cayenne Turbo EV, and it seems that Stuttgart is already working on something even more ridiculous. New spy shots captured by our photographers in northern Sweden reveal that Porsche is developing a coupe version of the EV with a sloping roofline, but that's not all. This prototype is wearing aggressive bodywork that takes inspiration from the GT division, and it's not the only EV to do so; a Taycan was spotted earlier this month sporting a wide body and angry aero. Porsche's Most Aggressive Cayenne Yet SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article While the third-generation E3 9YB Cayenne Coupe introduced a range-topping Turbo GT version with subtly more aggressive bodywork that included a roof spoiler, centrally-mounted exhaust tups, and gold wheels, this new EV will be far less restrained. The front of this prototype doesn't give us any clues because a placeholder bumper is installed, but the fenders reveal that this is a performance-focused machine, with black tape concealing vents that would not look out of place on a GT3 RS. The prototype also appears to have slightly more prominent wheel arch extensions, potentially hinting at a wider track for increased stability, and at the back, large vertical vents in the rear quarter confirm that this is a Turbo-based trim. We also see a large wing that appears to be fixed, and fixed wings only ever appear on Porsche's GT products. Thus, it stands to reason that we're looking at a Porsche Cayenne Coupe Turbo GT. Related: Audi CEO Says Porsche's Support for Electric TT Project Is "Not in Question" Purists will bemoan the fact that this has no tubochargers and is certainly not a track-ready sports car, but sympathizers will understand that branding is important for any EV, and Porsche needs to position its EVs in a way that calls to mind its other, more focused products. Will the name help it sell in a world that isn't even interested in electric Lamborghinis? Time will tell. More Power Expected for Electric Cayenne Turbo GT SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article For the 9YB Cayenne Turbo GT's facelift, the performance SUV got a bump from 631 to 650 hp, with both figures exceeding those of the Cayenne Turbo (541 hp) and Cayenne GTS (493 hp), though the Turbo S E-Hybrid was even more potent with 729 hp. Therefore, it makes sense that the all-electric Turbo GT will outperform the 'regular' Turbo EV. As we noted earlier, this makes just shy of 1,140 hp, so it's possible that the GT version will come closer to (or even exceed) 1,200 hp. For the record, the Italian-designed Drako Dragon is claimed to be the most powerful electric SUV on the planet, with its four-motor setup rated at 2,000 hp, but we doubt Porsche is worried about competing with that gullwing-doored EV, due to arrive before the end of 2026. We should know more about Porsche's hardcore electric SUV in the coming months, with Nürburgring sightings later in the year sure to reveal more details. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

Flagship Cars, Flagship ExpectationsFlagship sedans have always been tech showcases, and lately that’s meant pushing into hands-free, eyes-off driving – what the SAE officially considers Level 3 autonomy. When BMW launched the current G70 7 Series, it grabbed attention as the first BMW with a certified Level 3 system, called Personal Pilot L3. It was BMW’s way of showing up its German rivals. But that move didn’t last. According to Automotive News, the next 7 Series LCI update, expected this year, will ditch Level 3 entirely. Instead, BMW will fit its latest Level 2 system, already used in the new iX3. It’s simpler, costs less, and works in more situations, though drivers still have to stay in charge. Personal Pilot L3 never really caught on – it was expensive, only worked on certain highways, and topped out at 37 mph in Germany. The tech – LiDAR, radar, cameras, and sensors – added cost and complexity for a feature most owners barely touched. On paper, it sounded great, but in real life, it just didn’t deliver. BMW Mercedes-Benz Looking Past Level 3While BMW is pulling back, Mercedes-Benz is looking to leap ahead. The next S-Class is being built as the base for a Level 4 robotaxi, not just a car with eyes-off driving for owners. Mercedes is building in backup systems for steering, brakes, power, and computers right from the start. This changes the game. Level 4 skips the tricky handoff between driver and car that Level 3 struggles with, letting the car handle itself in certain situations. Mercedes is teaming up with Nvidia for the tech and with ride-hailing partners for real-world use, with first launches set for a few major cities. BMW An Industry-Wide Reality CheckIt’s not just the German luxury brands rethinking things. According to Reuters, several carmakers are backing away from Level 3. The costs can hit $1.5 billion for highway-ready systems, and with legal questions and low buyer interest, it’s a tough sell. Stellantis has put its Level 3 plans on hold, and Mercedes has paused some of its own work in the US. The main issue is that Level 3 autonomous driving puts more risk on carmakers but doesn’t offer much extra convenience. Advanced Level 2 systems, on the other hand, operate at higher speeds, cover more roads, and are much cheaper to deploy. With Chinese brands now adding smart driver aids to everyday cars, the push to make this tech affordable is only getting stronger. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Military Hardware x Pop CultureComedian and car collector Jeff Dunham is known for owning vehicles that fall well outside traditional enthusiast norms. His extreme rat-rod Humvee featured on Jay Leno’s Garage perfectly reflects that reputation. Underneath the exposed metalwork and oversized tires sits a 1987 AM General Humvee, originally engineered for military service rather than celebrity ownership. The High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle, or HMMWV, was developed in the 1980s as a rugged transport platform. General Motors has since revived the nameplate as an all-electric supertruck producing four-figure horsepower. A 750-HP Rat Rod Built to ShockThe Humvee’s transition into civilian life began when Arnold Schwarzenegger encountered the military vehicle during film production and pushed for a road-legal version in the early 1990s. That effort eventually led to the creation of the Hummer H1. The civilian model quickly became a cultural symbol embraced by celebrities and collectors. High-profile examples such as Tupac Shakur’s customized H1 demonstrated how the military-derived truck evolved into a statement vehicle associated with fame, individuality, and excess. Dunham’s Humvee started as a military-spec chassis but was later transformed into a promotional show vehicle by a Louisiana-based veteran-owned company. The truck now runs a 6.6-liter Duramax turbo-diesel V8 fitted with compound turbochargers. Output increased from roughly 350 horsepower to an estimated 750 horsepower. The drivetrain was also converted to rear-wheel drive, which reinforces its purpose as a visual showpiece rather than an off-road machine. YouTube - @jaylenosgarage View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A Very Serious BuildDespite an estimated weight approaching 9,000 to 10,000 pounds, Jay Leno noted that the vehicle feels unexpectedly smooth on the road. An adjustable air suspension system allows the Humvee to sit flat on the ground or raise itself for driving. The truck also uses fly-by-wire steering, eliminating a traditional mechanical connection between the steering wheel and front wheels. Massive 40-inch Mickey Thompson Baja tires, exposed engine components, and a spray-on bedliner exterior create the aggressive rat-rod appearance. However, the driving experience remains controlled, quiet, and far more refined than its appearance suggests. YouTube - @jaylenosgarage View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Tesla’s self-driving systems have been a subject of debate for years now. Fans of Autopilot and Full Self-Driving praise the convenience they provide, but critics have blamed the technology for causing accidents. It’s been only a few days since a federal judge refused to overturn a $243-million verdict related to a Tesla Model S crash, leaving the automaker to take at least some of the blame in the incident. Now, a Tesla Cybertruck owner is seeking over $1 million in a Texas lawsuit after her vehicle allegedly ran into a concrete barrier. Truck Almost Drove Off Overpass Exotic Car Trader The plaintiff, Justine Saint Armour, purchased her Cybertruck from a used car dealer in February 2025. The truck was equipped with the company’s optional FSD suite; the lawsuit, however, states the plaintiff was “using the Autopilot” in August 2025 when the crash occurred. Autopilot is the brand’s more basic driving suite without the full range of capabilities as FSD. "More specifically, the subject Cybertruck was driving on 69 Eastex Freeway approaching 256 Eastex Park and Ride while on Autopilot,” states the lawsuit, according to Car Complaints. “On this 'Y' shaped overpass, where the vehicle should have followed the curve to the right onto 256 Eastex Park and Ride, the Cybertruck attempted to drive straight ahead into the concrete barrier and the freeway below, which caused Plaintiff to disengage the self-driving mode and take control of the wheel but it was too late and crashed into the barrier, causing the injuries and damages complained of herein." Tesla Cybertruck configurator In the lawsuit, the plaintiff also accused Tesla boss Elon Musk of being “an aggressive and irresponsible salesman, who has a long history of making dangerous design choices, and overpromising features of his products.” Several aspects of the lawsuit remain unclear, such as the speed the truck was going at the time of the crash and details surrounding injuries. The lawsuit also accuses the company of failing to provide LiDAR sensors (Tesla relies on a series of cameras to identify surroundings) and misleading “self-driving” advertising. Related: Feds Audit Tesla Over FSD Crashes — What Owners Should Know What It Means Tesla While any accident is unfortunate, it sounds as if the plaintiff avoided an even more dire situation—the lawsuit claims the truck nearly went off the overpass, which would likely have resulted in more serious consequences. The currently available information does not state the speed of the truck at the time, which may also be an important detail. Whether this was entirely the fault of the Cybertruck may come to light as the case progresses, but the gulf between what some drivers expect of self-driving systems and what they can do remains a problem. It’s why Tesla was forced to drop Autopilot from cars in California recently, as regulators found the name of the system to be misleading and threatened the automaker with a 30-day sales ban. Tesla’s self-driving systems may be capable of thousands of incident-free trips with minimal driver intervention, but the number of crashes involving the technology still points to serious safety concerns. This particular lawsuit was filed in the Harris County Texas District Court: Justine Saint Armour v. Tesla, Inc., et al. It’s a case that adds to years of legal scrutiny surrounding Tesla’s self-driving tech, which is especially pertinent as the company plans to sell the Cybercab—an entirely self-driving vehicle with no manual driving controls at all. View the full article

Last year, Cadillac confirmed that its CT4 sedan would go out of production in June 2026. However, anyone interested in one of these compact sedans has even less time to buy one, as GM Authority has confirmed that order books for the CT4 will close during the week of April 20, 2026. That gives you roughly two months to order the last sedan of its kind—there isn’t another small, gas-powered sedan from an American automaker on sale in the United States. Related: Don’t Buy The Wrong 2026 Cadillac CT4: Here’s Our Trim Level Breakdown CT4’s Good Looks and Strong Performance Will Be Missed Cadillac On price, the Cadillac CT4 competes against the likes of the Audi A3, Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, and Acura Integra. Unlike all these rivals, the Caddy has standard rear-wheel drive. Even the cheapest model has enough performance, thanks to a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mill with 237 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. A larger 2.7-liter turbo-four with 310 hp and 350 lb-ft is available, too; go for the CT4-V, and output increases to 325 hp and 380 lb-ft. The star of the CT4 lineup is the CT4-V Blackwing, which gets a 3.6-liter twin-turbo V6 with 472 hp and 445 lb-ft. Cadillac It will be particularly hard to say goodbye to the Blackwing, which thrills with its available six-speed manual gearbox and feelsome steering—for way less than the price of a BMW M3. In production since 2019, the CT4 lacks the polish and luxury of its German rivals, but you wouldn’t know it at first glance. It’s still a handsome and distinctive sedan, and it has singlehandedly kept small, gas-powered American sedans alive; brands like Chevrolet and Lincoln have abandoned this segment. Cadillac will introduce a successor to today’s CT5, but no replacement for the CT4 has been announced. Related: 2026 Audi RS3 vs Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing: Which Is The Better Buy? What It Means Cadillac Soon, you’ll only be able to buy a used Cadillac CT4 or a new one from remaining inventory. Accounting for both 2025 and 2026 models, there are under 1,700 CT4s sitting on U.S. dealer lots. Of those, the number of desirable Blackwings with manuals will be even lower. Following the discontinuation of the XT4 crossover and now the CT4, Cadillac will soon have no more models available for under $40,000. This follows a trend of the brand leaning deeper into its high-end, luxury roots recently. It’s a shift driven by sophisticated EVs like the Escalade IQ and Celestiq, which is seeing Cadillac challenge the likes of Bentley and Rolls-Royce. That leaves little room for affordable, gas-powered models like the CT4. If you want a relatively affordable luxury car, you’ll be better served by the likes of Lexus and Acura in the months ahead. View the full article

From 40 to 40,000Last month, a mere 40 units of the EX30 were recalled in the US after regulators spotted a possible fire risk with the high-voltage battery. Owners got the usual advice: park outside, keep away from buildings, and limit charging to 70 percent until Volvo could sort it out. That small recall didn’t stay small for long. Volvo has now confirmed a global recall for over 40,000 EX30s, turning what started as a minor regulatory blip into a major test for one of its most important EVs. With Chinese competitors lurking around the EX30, the timing couldn’t get any worse. Volvo What’s AffectedThe recall covers 40,323 EX30s worldwide, including both the single-motor extended-range and twin-motor performance models, Reuters reports. The issue comes from battery packs supplied by Shandong Geely Sunwoda Power Battery Co., a joint venture tied to Volvo’s parent company, Geely. The risk comes down to overheating from a possible short circuit inside the battery cells. Regulators say a manufacturing glitch could cause lithium to build up, which might lead to too much heat in some situations. So far, though, there haven’t been any crashes, injuries, or fires linked to the defect. Volvo isn’t taking any chances. Since December, owners in the US, Australia, Brazil, and other markets have been told to keep charging at 70 percent and avoid parking near buildings. In the US, the recall was done with the NHTSA, which said drivers might get a battery overheating warning if the problem shows up. Volvo What Owners Need to DoVolvo says the supplier has already fixed the manufacturing issue, and new battery modules will be installed at no cost to owners. For now, though, the charging cap stays in place as a precaution while owners wait for further instructions. The cost could be huge. Reuters estimates that just replacing the battery packs could run about $195 million, not counting shipping or labor. Volvo says that number is just a guess for now, and talks with the supplier are still underway. For owners, the steps are straightforward but not exactly convenient: keep the charging limit, follow the parking advice, and wait for the official repair notice. Volvo View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Canada Opens the Door, Buyers Walk ThroughA new Bloomberg survey suggests Canadian car buyers are increasingly open to purchasing China-made vehicles, and the timing makes sense. Canada has begun allowing a limited number of Chinese car imports into the country under reduced tariffs, giving consumers a chance to actually consider these vehicles as a realistic option. BYD, the Chinese EV giant that has already made serious inroads in Europe and Australia, is among the brands generating growing interest north of the border. This shift didn't happen overnight. Canadian buyers, like consumers everywhere, respond to availability and price. When affordable alternatives show up in the market, people pay attention, and right now, Chinese EVs are offering specs and price points that are difficult to ignore on paper. Among the few vehicles that BYD is likely readying for the Canadian market, the BYD Shark midsize truck, for example, could also prove to be popular with American buyers with its plug-in hybrid 430hp AWD drivetrain, 522-mile combined driving range, and roughly $50,000 price tag - a hard deal to pass up, by any standards. What's Keeping Chinese EVs Out of American DrivewaysSouth of the border, the story is very different. The United States has maintained steep tariffs on Chinese electric cars, effectively keeping brands like BYD off American lots entirely. The argument from Washington is straightforward enough in principle, that protecting domestic manufacturing preserves jobs and shields the industry from unfair competition backed by state subsidies. There is something to that argument. Chinese automakers have benefited from enormous government support, and competing against that on a level playing field is genuinely difficult for companies carrying the full cost burden of operating in a free market economy. BYD View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Protection or Price Gouging?But the other side of that argument deserves equal scrutiny. American car buyers are currently paying some of the highest vehicle prices in recent memory, with the average new car transaction sitting well above $50,000. Tariffs that were designed to protect an industry may also be functioning as a shield that allows established automakers to keep prices elevated without facing meaningful competitive pressure. The question worth sitting with is a simple one. Are these tariffs protecting American workers and innovation, or are they protecting profit margins at the expense of ordinary buyers who just need affordable, reliable transportation? View the full article

According to 2025 data from J.D. Power, EV owners do 81% of their vehicle’s charging via a home charger. Despite expanding public charger access, this shows how important the home charging experience is. To that end, Toyota has announced a collaboration with Treehouse, experts in car charger installations. Using advanced software, Treehouse provides an end-to-end experience, making the purchase and installation of home chargers straightforward. Both Toyota and Lexus vehicles will benefit from the new service, which can be used by owners of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) and fully electric models. Related: Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, or EV? How to Decide Before You Buy Home Charging Made Easy Toyota Treehouse offers a holistic home installation process for Level 2 AC charging. Instead of multiple home visits, Treehouse will handle everything from project scoping to installation, with just a single visit required to install the hardware. By sending in a few photos and completing a short survey, you can receive an installation quote in 48 hours or less. “Toyota and Lexus vehicles have a reputation for being easy to own and enjoyable to drive, so the home-charging experience should be as well,” said Thibaut de Barros Conti, vice president, Business Incubation & Development, TMNA. “Treehouse complements our brands and empowers our customers with a one-stop shop to install their home-charging solutions.” Lexus home charging T View the 1 images of this gallery on the original article Treehouse only works with licensed and carefully vetted electricians, adding further peace of mind for clients. A two-year installation warranty is included from Treehouse, while the dual-voltage cable itself has a three-year warranty for Toyotas and a four-year warranty for Lexus models. “We’re thrilled to work with Toyota to enhance the electrified vehicle and home charging experience for Toyota and Lexus customers,” said Eric Owski, co-founder and CEO of Treehouse. “By bringing seamless, end-to-end home charging solutions into the EV ownership journey, this collaboration with Toyota reflects our shared commitment to making electrification easy and accessible for consumers.” Related: The Toyota RAV4 PHEV Can Power a Home for a Week — But Not in America Which Toyota and Lexus Models Can Benefit? T The new service applies to all new Toyota and Lexus PHEVs or EVs. 2026 and newer models from the brands come standard with a dual-voltage 120V/240V AC home charger for Level 1 and Level 2 charging. When conditions are perfect, the maximum output of 7.7 kW can recharge the battery from 10% to full overnight. Dual-voltage charging cables were already provided on Toyota EVs from the 2024 model year, with the brand’s PHEVs coming with the cables as of the current, 2026 model year. Toyota and Lexus have a growing lineup of EVs and PHEVs. In the last few months alone, Toyota has revealed the bZ Woodland, C-HR, and Highlander EVs. Plug-in hybrid versions of several Toyota/Lexus crossovers are also available, including the new RAV4. All these vehicles can now be more conveniently hooked up to a home-charging system. What It Means Toyota After years with an uncompetitive or non-existent EV lineup, Toyota is doubling down on its efforts to launch fully electric vehicles throughout its lineup. These complement the brand’s existing range of plug-in hybrids, giving buyers the opportunity to commute daily without using a drop of gas. Now that its EV lineup has improved, the brand is addressing other parts of the ownership experience, and that includes home charging. The Treehouse partnership removes another potential source of anxiety for PHEV/EV buyers coming from a conventional gas car. Toyota is far behind Tesla, Chevrolet, and the Koreans (Kia and Hyundai) in EV sales in the U.S. But, by expanding its lineup and enhancing the full ownership experience, the Japanese marque is positioning itself as a more serious player in the EV sphere. View the full article

The Ultimate Moving TargetRimac Automobili collaborated with Red Bull athlete Dario Costa on what’s being described as a world-first aviation stunt in Turkey. While electric powertrains are not yet widely used in aviation, Rimac’s involvement had little to do with aircraft propulsion. Instead, the EV manufacturer supplied its hypercars – the Nevera and Nevera R – to serve as high-speed practice targets for the attempt. The stunt required Costa to take off from the top of a cargo train traveling at 120 km/h (approximately 75 mph) and later land back onto the moving platform. Rehearsing with a real train would have been logistically difficult and risky, so the two Nevera models were used to emulate the train’s pace and the visual dynamics of a moving landing zone. Preparation took place at an airport in Croatia, Rimac’s home turf. Rimac When EVs Become Tools of FlightThe hypercars were an ideal choice given their outright performance. The Nevera uses a quad-motor setup producing 1,914 horsepower – nearly double the output of the Ferrari SF90 Stradale. Meanwhile, the Rimac Nevera R is the more extreme, track-focused evolution that has set multiple performance records, including a 0–60 mph time of just 1.66 seconds. One potential drawback during the three-day practice sessions could have been the charging time. High-speed runs can quickly drain the battery, unlike a gas-powered vehicle that can refuel and return to action within minutes. For reference, the Nevera supports DC fast charging from 0 to 80 percent in roughly 30 minutes on a 250 kW charger – and even quicker on higher-capacity units. Of course, the hypercars could not replicate one critical factor: the wake turbulence generated by a full-size moving train. That was one of several variables Dario Costa had to contend with, along with flying at a near-stall speed of 87 km/h (54 mph). Beyond supplying the hypercars, Rimac also contributed engineering expertise. The company developed a canopy for Costa’s aircraft using its CFD (computational fluid dynamics) capabilities and designed a bespoke seat optimized for improved stabilization and reduced pilot fatigue. Rimac The Fastest Way to TrainSpeaking about the collaboration, Rimac founder Mate Rimac said, “This project is the perfect expression of what Rimac stands for.” He added, “When you are pushing into completely unknown territory, you need tools that match your ambition. We were proud to be part of that.” Costa completed the stunt on a 2.5-kilometer (1.55-mile) railway track in Afyonkarahisar, Turkey, on February 15, 2026. This is not the only recent collaboration between Red Bull and an automaker. The energy drink giant previously partnered with Porsche specialist Singer Vehicle Design to develop a 13-piece carbon-fiber reinforcement structure that increases torsional rigidity in open-top 964-generation 911s to match the performance levels of the coupes. Meanwhile, Ford is set to return to Formula 1 with Red Bull Racing as a technical partner. Rimac View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Amid rumors of its delay, budgetary spirals and legal challenges, the boss of the Volkswagen-owned Scout Motors says the company’s electric and range-extender revivals of the classic International Scout 4x4 are still ‘full steam ahead’. Of course, the whole ‘electric’ part of the equation might be a sticking point for many in the current turbulent EV market, but if the idea of a capable 4x4 blending classic Scout styling with a modern powertrain still appeals, then there are other ways, such as cramming a huge LT1 V8 under the hood of one of the original versions instead. Looks Classic, Doesn’t Feel ItThat’s just what Florida-based restomodder Velocity Restorations has been doing for some time now. Its latest build, which the company has provided an in-depth walkaround video of, started life as a 1973 International Scout II, and it’s a sight to behold. It begins with a brand new chassis provided by Illinois-best specialist Roadster Shop, which does away with the rather agricultural underpinnings of the original for a far more modern setup complete with four-link rear suspension, coilovers at all four corners and front and rear anti-sway bars. Wilwood disc brakes feature on all four wheels too. A Modern V8 Heart Velocity Restorations That chassis overhaul is needed because in place of whichever of the Scout’s range of fairly feeble engines originally powered this particular one is General Motors’ 6.2-liter LT1 V8, as originally fitted to the C7 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray and sixth-generation Camaro. Churning out 455 HP, it drives the wheels via the 10-speed 10L80 automatic transmission co-developed by GM and Ford. Meanwhile, there’s a Dana 44 axle up front and a 60 at the rear, and the 35-inch BFGoodrich KM3 mud terrain tires should afford plenty of off-road ability. A ’70s Homage Look Velocity Restorations While much of the underneath is thoroughly modern, the brown and off-white two-tone paint scheme Velocity’s given this particular Scout couldn’t be any more ’70s if it tried. The firm calls the livery Harvest Moon, and it’s paired with its Heritage Series exterior package which brings chrome billet exterior accents and painted 18-inch steel wheels. The retro theme continues inside with swathes of brown leather and carpeting, but here too, there are concessions to modernity like the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible head unit and Focal sound system. If it all sounds a bit more up your street than the modern electric Scout, then there’s bad news with regards to this particular car as Velocity’s website already lists it as sold. However, if you don’t have the patience to source a car and wait for a bespoke build, the restomodder has a couple of other Scouts on its site that’ll soon be available – you’ll just need to be able to stomach the eye-watering $407,900 price that both are listed at. View the full article