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Taking a Gap YearIt's not often that a manufacturer takes a model out for a gap year, especially if it's still a pretty fresh model in the market. Well, that's exactly what Audi did for the A6 Sportback e-Tron and the Q6 e-Tron. It's odd given that global markets will be getting it, and the German automaker was rather proud of the changes they made to those two models. So, for those looking to buy either of those two cars, you either have to get remaining stocks of the 2025 model year or go for the 2027 version. That said, you don't have to wait too long for it. Audi What Audi SaidAccording to Automotive News, an Audi spokesperson said the timing and availability of the updates meant a very abbreviated 2026 model year. Instead, the new batch of cars coming to America will be labeled as 2027. "Rather than initiating a very short model year run of 2026 vehicles, we elected to skip that model year and introduce the 2027 model year in the U.S early with new features," said the spokesperson via e-mail. With that, the cars will arrive in showrooms by the second quarter of this year. Not too long a wait, then. Changes for 20...27The big news for the Q6 and A6 Sportback e-Tron is the return of some physical buttons. It's the same arrangement found in the updated A5 and Q5, and should improve ergonomics and user experience. Of course, those aren't the only changes to the 2027 model. Advanced driver assists get an upgrade, too, and there's a sport differential for the punchier S6 e-Tron. The parking assist features have been expanded, and the cars can now switch lanes semi-autonomously. Additional standard features have been added. For pricing, the Q6 e-Tron starts at $65,796, while the A6 Sportback e-Tron carries a base price of $67,996. Audi View the full article

Not All Concepts Leave the ScreenMost concept cars never make it past the show floor. Some are just static centerpieces; others exist only as digital sketches. The Vision Gran Turismo concepts take it a step further, letting automakers dream up wild machines that usually stay locked inside a video game. The Volkswagen GTI Roadster Vision Gran Turismo from 2014 somehow managed to become all three, and more. It was born inside Gran Turismo 6 on the PlayStation 3 as part of the Vision GT program. Most of those cars never left the console. Volkswagen, however, went a step further and built a full-scale, fully drivable version. Which makes it even more curious that we’re talking about it again in 2026. That’s because Volkswagen quietly posted a new set of GTI Roadster images to its media site, all marked February 18, 2026. There’s no new hardware, no updated specs, just a fresh spotlight on a concept that first turned heads over a decade ago. Volkswagen The 500-HP GTI That Ignored RealitySo what set the GTI Roadster apart? Under the hood sat the legendary 3.0-liter twin-turbo VR6, good for 503 horsepower and 413 Nm of torque. Power went through a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, spinning massive 20-inch centerlock wheels. Volkswagen claimed it could hit 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and reach 192 mph flat out. The car was built on the MQB architecture that also underpinned the Golf lineup at the time, but its proportions were significantly changed. The wheelbase was reduced to 98.2 inches, and the overall height was just 42.9 inches. The result was a wide, low stance with short overhangs and prominent aerodynamic features. A large rear wing, sculpted carbon blades, and distinctive C-pillars gave the GTI Roadster the appearance of a track-focused car rather than a traditional hot hatch. The doors opened upward and forward, while the paint, then called 'Gran Turismo Red,' offered a deeper and more aggressive take on the classic Tornado Red. Interestingly, the concept car in the fresh batch of images arrives in green paint. Inside, the GTI Roadster featured a carbon-fiber monocoque, racing seats, an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel, and an exposed steering column, all contributing to a motorsport-inspired interior. Decorative elements were minimal, resulting in a purposeful, almost production cabin. Volkswagen showed the GTI Roadster Concept in the metal at Wörthersee in 2014, then brought it to North America for the Los Angeles Auto Show later that year. Volkswagen Just Anniversary Nostalgia?So why bring it back into the conversation now? There’s no sign Volkswagen is planning a comeback for the GTI Roadster. No whispers of a limited run, no hints at an electric version with the new images. The real reason probably comes down to timing. The GTI nameplate first appeared in 1976, so it’s celebrating 50 years. Volkswagen already marked the occasion with an Edition 50 model last year. Shining a light on the wildest GTI ever built feels like a fitting way to show just how far the badge has come. If the regular GTI is about everyday performance, the Roadster is on the other end of the spectrum. It’s what happens when designers throw practicality out the window. Reposting these images in 2026 might not mean anything new is coming. But it’s a reminder that, at least once, Volkswagen let the GTI go all out and made it real. Volkswagen View the 21 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The rolling hills of West Sussex are used to the sound of flat-six engines, but the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed is shaping up to feel especially significant. Organizers have confirmed that Singer, the California firm that has spent more than 15 years redefining what a restomod can be, will serve as the featured marque for the event’s Central Feature. In front of Goodwood House, a towering sculpture by Gerry Judah will rise, displaying carbon-fiber-bodied Porsche models reimagined for the modern era. Singer Where Goodwood’s Story Takes Center StageFor those unfamiliar with the festival’s visual language, the Central Feature is its true centerpiece. Since the late 1990s, sculptor Gerry Judah has used this space to honor automotive heavyweights ranging from Mercedes-Benz to Ferrari. Seeing Singer take over this spot is meaningful, as it is the first time a boutique restoration firm, rather than a major manufacturer, has headlined the front lawn. The recognition reflects the influence that Rob Dickinson and his team have had on modern car culture. The sculpture will anchor a daily showcase in which the quiet countryside is replaced by the sound of Singer’s most important creations, charting a path from the early Classic commissions to the ferocious DLS Turbo models. Singer A Future Rob Dickinson Never Saw ComingThe story of Singer is closely tied to the life of its founder, Rob Dickinson. In 1993, while taking a break from his role as frontman of the British rock band Catherine Wheel, Dickinson attended the very first Goodwood Festival of Speed as just another fan in the crowd. At the time, he could hardly have imagined that his fascination with the 911 would one day place his company at the center of the Duke of Richmond’s estate. When Singer returned to Goodwood in 2015, it was still a young company built around an ambitious idea. In the years since, the festival has become a proving ground, with the pressure of unveiling new projects on a global stage demanding an extraordinary level of precision. The result is a standard in which every bolt, stitch, and suspension setting must be flawless. Dirty Car? Shop Chemical Guys Specials: Up To 40% OffDisclaimer: If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission. Chemical Guys Basic Wash and Wax Kit: 28% Off Chemical Guys Exterior Starter Kit: 33% Off Chemical Guys Leather Care Kit: 35% Off Chemical Guys Streak Free Glass Cleaner: Just $9.99 An American Company with a Very British Soul Singer There is something fitting about a California company being honored in the British countryside. As founder, Rob Dickinson often points out, Singer blends influence from both regions. The design philosophy may come from Southern California, but the engineering discipline and motorsport spirit draw heavily from British tradition. This combination has helped Singer resonate with enthusiasts worldwide. By taking a German icon and refining it through an international lens of craftsmanship, the company has evolved from a specialist modifier into a benchmark for excellence. The 2026 festival will feel less like a guest appearance and more like a milestone moment. Singer Anticipation is Building for Singer at GoodwoodAs July 2026 approaches, anticipation among loyal attendees is already building. Beyond the Central Feature, Singer will have a major presence throughout the event grounds. The Stable Yard will showcase new commissions, while the Supercar Paddock will give fans a close look at the craftsmanship behind each build. The real spectacle, however, will unfold on the hill climb itself. With leaders such as Mazen Fawaz and Raj Nair involved, expect a passionate demonstration that honors the 911’s heritage while highlighting what modern restoration can achieve. For the hundreds of thousands who travel to Goodwood each year, the 2026 edition promises to showcase what happens when the pursuit of perfection never stops. View the full article

Anyone who has driven at night recently knows the feeling. An oncoming SUV crests the hill, its LED headlights blazing, and for a moment, the road ahead disappears entirely. You squint, you look away, and then you carry on, rattled and blinking. And yet, according to IIHS crash data, this experience barely exists. Lawmakers in both Canada and the United States have started paying attention to that experience, pushing for tighter regulation on headlight brightness in recent years. The public frustration is widespread and only growing louder. The response from safety researchers, however, has been dim in contrast. The IIHS examined crash data from 2015 to 2023 across multiple states and found that glare was cited in only one or two out of every 1,000 nighttime crashes. The IIHS interpretation is clear enough: better illumination saves lives, and dialing it back to please annoyed commuters would create bigger problems than it solves. On its own terms, that argument is hard to dismiss. But it sidesteps a quieter issue that is accumulating its own body of evidence. When the Harm Doesn't Show Up in Crash ReportsThe problem with measuring glare purely through collision data is that many of its most damaging effects never register as direct causes. Discomfort glare, by definition, does not directly impair visual performance in the same way that disability glare does. Instead, it produces subjective discomfort, fatigue, and annoyance, which can lead to behavioural adaptations such as looking away or excessive blinking. A driver who looks away from an oncoming vehicle to protect their eyes is not going to show up in a crash report as a glare statistic, even if the behaviour contributed to a near miss. Getty The Fatigue Link Researchers Are Quietly BuildingResearch has found that exposure to headlamp illumination appears to have measurable impacts on driving behaviours associated with stress, distraction, and fatigue, including reductions in speed and lateral drift in lane position. In a large UK survey by the RAC and the College of Optometrists, nearly a fifth of motorists who still drive at night say bright headlights leave them feeling tired and fatigued while driving, while 16 percent reported headaches, migraines, or eye pain. Fatigue, of course, is among the most dangerous conditions a driver can be in, and it almost never gets attributed to oncoming headlights when a crash eventually occurs. Mercedes-Benz A Problem That Is Shrinking People's LivesBeyond fatigue, the scale of behavioural change being driven by headlight glare deserves more attention than a footnote in a crash report. RAC research shows that a quarter of drivers affected by glare are either driving less at night or have stopped altogether, rising to 43 percent among those aged 75 and above. Cognitive overload from dealing with glare forces drivers to divert attention away from where it needs to be. In other words, the argument that glare is not meaningfully causing crashes may be technically accurate while completely missing what glare is actually doing to millions of people on the road every night. From elderly people losing independence to drivers feeling more fatigued at night than usual, the impact is real. The IIHS is not wrong that better headlights save lives. But if the defence of brighter lights requires ignoring the fact that so many drivers are rearranging their lives around them, you might want to check whether the data is actually measuring the full cost, or just the parts that end up in a police report. View the full article

The Hyundai Santa Fe has been spotted sporting a fresh new look. The current fifth-generation (MX5) Santa Fe was revealed in 2023 with a boxy appearance and, at the rear, an arguably strange design, with the low-set horizontal taillights giving the SUV excess visual mass. Despite this awkward look, it's been an exceptionally strong seller, but as reported by Autocar, Hyundai is rethinking its models' design language with the goal of making cars appear more closely related without looking identical. To that end, the refreshed Santa Fe, which is expected within the coming year, is getting a new look at both ends. Changes are also coming to the cabin, but more on those later. Revised Fascias for the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article It's not easy to see the front-end updates in these spy shots, since Hyundai uses highly effective canvas camouflage to hide its prototypes as they undergo pre-production testing, but our spies report that the headlights will be slimmer and gain side-mounted daytime running lights. A "more refined" four-bar grille is also coming to the redesigned bumper, which our spies say will be more cohesive. The SUV's boxy silhouette will remain, but at the rear, those low-mounted horizontal taillights will be disposed of. In their stead, a more SUV-traditional set of vertical taillights will frame the rear end, reducing the visual mass of the upper tailgate and glasshouse. Related: This Is the Cheapest Hyundai in America In a nutshell, the Santa Fe will look better, but it will still stand out. At least, that's the goal. Under the hood, the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine option with its six-speed automatic transmission is expected to carry over. Whether the 2.5-liter engine (paired with an eight-speed auto) will still be offered remains to be seen, but an extended-range (EREV) powertrain is expected to be introduced. A Fresh Interior for the New Santa Fe SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Our spies were unable to get close to this Santa Fe prototype, but their long-lens cameras still captured a glimpse of the cabin, where a large central display is evident. This forms part of the new Android Automotive OS-based PLEOS infotainment setup, with a much smaller horizontal display behind the steering wheel for driver info. This system is part of Hyundai's push into software-defined vehicles and promises continuous evolution over time, thanks to high-performance chips and controllers, a cloud-based infrastructure, and access to the Android app ecosystem. PLEOS is scheduled to debut in the second quarter of this year, but the new Santa Fe is only likely to appear at the end of 2026 or early in 2027. View the full article

Not a Criminal CaseHere's something you don't see every day. According to a report from Automotive News, a customer is suing a Honda dealership in Downtown Los Angeles, alleging the dealership filed a false police report to have officers repossess her vehicle. The lawsuit contends the dealership illegally used police as “personal repo men” after financing for the vehicle fell through. Christine Simpson alleges she was wrongfully detained at gunpoint when Beverly Hills police pulled her over. Officers handcuffed her and held her in a patrol car for roughly two hours before determining the matter was a civil financing dispute, not a criminal theft. BMW What Happened?Court filings state Simpson made a $5,000 down payment in September 2025 on a 2022 BMW X5 and took possession of the vehicle. After a lender could not be secured, she signed a second contract that allegedly gave the dealership 10 days to cancel. When the store later demanded the vehicle’s return, and she declined, the general manager allegedly threatened to report it stolen. Police towed the SUV, and the dealership later claimed towing and repair fees. Simpson’s suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages for emotional distress, consumer law violations, unlawful conversion, and negligence. The dealership, part of Brandon Steven Motors, did not respond to requests for comment. Getty Images Repossessions Are Surging Amid Growing Auto Loan StressThe case lands amid mounting stress in the auto finance sector. Recent reporting shows repossessions have climbed to levels exceeding those seen during the Great Recession. Higher vehicle prices and elevated interest rates have stretched affordability. Longer loan terms have amplified borrower risk. Delinquencies are rising across credit tiers. At the same time, the repossession industry has become more technologically aggressive. Surveillance networks and license plate scanning systems have streamlined vehicle recovery. Separate data indicate buyers are taking on longer and riskier loans to afford new cars. A growing number of Americans are falling behind on payments. The financial strain creates flashpoints when deals unravel. View the full article

JD Power has released the results of its 2026 U.S. Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study, an assessment of EV and plug-in hybridowner satisfaction. Focused on the first year of ownership, the study considers not only the car itself, but also factors like public charging availability. The good news is that EV owner satisfaction has reached its best level since the study’s inception six years ago, despite EV market share cooling off in recent months. Tesla put in a strong showing, while EVs from Honda and Audi did not. Key Study Findings Nissan Conducted in collaboration with PlugShare, an EV driver app maker and research firm, the study was based on 5,741 owners of 2025/2026 model-year EVs and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The study evaluates 10 factors of new EV ownership, including the following: accuracy of battery range; public charging availability; interior/exterior styling; safety and technology features; cost of ownership; home-charging convenience; servicing experience; and vehicle quality/reliability. Impressively, 96% of new EV owners say they’d lease or purchase another EV. Overall premium EV satisfaction reached 786 on a 1,000-point scale, up from 756 last year. For mass-market EVs, this year’s score was 727, up from 725. These are some other findings from this year’s study: Premium EVs saw notable quality improvements, such as reduced squeaks/rattlesEVs have higher satisfaction ratings than PHEVsPublic charging availability was the most improved index factor among both premium and mass-market brands, up to 652 for premium models—101 points higher than a year agoFor mass-market EVs, public charging satisfaction increased to 511, up by 115 points“EV market share has declined sharply following the discontinuation of the federal tax credit program in September 2025, but that dip belies steadily growing customer satisfaction among owners of new EVs,” said Brent Gruber, executive director of the EV practice at JD Power. “Improvements in battery technology, charging infrastructure and overall vehicle performance have driven customer satisfaction to its highest level ever.” Related: America’s Fastest EV Chargers Are Coming In 2026, But There’s A Problem Model and Brand Ratings BMW i4 BMW/Fabian Kirchbauer Photography View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Tesla Model 3 was the highest-ranked overall model, including in the premium segment. This is likely linked to the availability of a cheaper base model and Tesla’s recent improvements to the electric sedan. It was followed by the Tesla Model Y, BMW i4, and BMW iX. In the mass-market segment, the Ford Mustang Mach-E came out on top, followed by the Hyundai Ioniq 6, Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia EV6. JD Power 2026 US EVX Ownership Study rankings J View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Only two models in the study had scores of under 700 total points. These were the Audi Q6 e-tron (690) and Honda Prologue (623); when we drove the Prologue, its interior and performance left us underwhelmed, and owners may be feeling similarly, based on its score in this study. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the Chevrolet Blazer EV (which shares a platform with the Prologue) also ranked close to the bottom, with a score of 711. Although JD Power didn’t disclose the specific areas where these low-performing EVs fell short, it’s a disappointing result for a premium brand like Audi, especially given how well close rival BMW performed. What It Means EV sales may have suffered after the federal tax credit ended last year, but consumers who have chosen to purchase an electric vehicle are happier with them than they’ve ever been. Many EVs can now cover 300 miles or more on a full charge, while public charger access has improved significantly, removing two of the major pain points for EV ownership. While plug-in hybrid satisfaction levels have also improved, these remain more complex powertrains, so overall satisfaction isn’t as high as for EVs. Other recent studies point to PHEVs being far less reliable than traditional gas cars. EV makers have now had several years to refine their offerings, and that’s starting to show in this study. If owner satisfaction keeps improving at this rate, the recent slowdown in demand for electric vehicles may be temporary rather than lasting. View the full article

Hyundai’s Button Promise, Then ThisButtons, as simple as they are, have become a surprisingly heated topic in the auto industry. As touchscreen infotainment systems grew more advanced, many automakers steadily removed tactile physical controls in favor of glass panels. That naturally backfired, with customers arguing that burying key functions inside menus made cars harder to use on the move. In response, several automakers publicly walked back their all-screen approach, and Hyundai was among them. Company executives previously emphasized the importance of keeping physical switches for critical functions, especially climate controls, citing usability and safety concerns. That makes this latest prototype a bit of a head-scratcher. A prototype Ioniq 5 was recently spotted, and if the spy shots are anything to go by, it’s almost completely buttonless inside. Nearly every physical control has been stripped away. Hyundai hasn’t said what this setup is for, but one thing is obvious: buttons are now a rare sight in this cabin. A Vertical Screen and a Clean-Slate DashboardThe images, first published by The Korean Car Blog, show an interior that looks more like a production car than an early test mule. The exterior is unchanged, but inside, it’s a different story. The biggest change is the dashboard. Gone is the familiar pair of 12.3-inch horizontal screens. In their place sits a single, towering 17- or 18-inch vertical touchscreen. The look is more Tesla Model S or Mustang Mach-E than what we’ve come to expect from Hyundai’s EVs. Even more interesting, the traditional instrument cluster is missing. Like in some recent Hyundai prototypes, driver info might now be handled by the main screen or a new head-up display. The center console is now a minimalist island, with climate controls fully absorbed into the touchscreen. There are no physical A/C switches in sight. Even the door handles have been replaced by electronic push-buttons. Related: Kia EV5 Spied With Major Interior Redesign and Tougher Styling The steering wheel keeps the same minimalist approach. Instead of a cluster of buttons, there’s a central roulette-style scroller and just two tactile buttons. It looks like Hyundai wants drivers to rely more on voice commands and touch inputs without looking down. Hyundai Facelift Experiment or Next-Gen Preview?So what’s Hyundai up to with this Ioniq 5 prototype? One theory is that it’s a premium facelift or a new interior option to help the Ioniq 5 keep pace with new and updated rivals. Another is that Hyundai is using the current body as a test bed for its next-generation interior, which could arrive as soon as next year. If the latter's true, this prototype could signal a bigger shift in Hyundai’s EV design – from retro-futuristic charm to ultra-minimalist luxury. Whether that fits with Hyundai’s earlier promise to keep physical controls is still up in the air. With more markets pushing to ban buttonless interiors, we hope Hyundai sticks to its word. Hyundai View the full article

Audi has officially taken the wraps off the all-new RS 5, and it's a plug-in hybrid monster with an imposing presence, developing more power than any BMW M3 to date and even outmuscling the 621-horsepower C8 Audi RS 6 Avant. The refined 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 is now joined by an electric motor to produce a beefy 630 hp, which goes to all four wheels through a hybridized eight-speed transmission and an all-new rear transaxle with electromechanical torque vectoring, which Audi claims is a world first for a production model. It's unmistakably an Audi Sport product, with bulging arches and unique styling, and it's expected to both handle beautifully and ride comfortably, thanks to twin-valve shock absorbers that quickly adapt to changing road surfaces, among other upgrades. Let's take a closer look. 2027 Audi RS 5 Powertrain Audi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The 2.9-liter V6 with twin variable-geometry turbochargers makes 503 hp on its own, and a 130 kW/339 lb-ft electric motor is integrated for peak combined figures of 630 hp and 608 lb-ft of torque. Those clever turbos, aided by increased fuel pressures and the integrated electric motor, promise to improve throttle response, while water-to-air intercoolers appear on the RS 5 for the first time to lower intake temperatures. Speaking of the intakes, these are designed to be as short and as free-breathing as possible, with a nearly straight path to the turbos. The result? 0-62 mph takes 3.6 seconds, and with the optional Audi Sport package, the top speed is 177 mph. A boost function on the steering wheel deploys maximum output for 10 seconds in any driving mode, making overtaking easy in any mode (comfort, balanced, dynamic, or RS). This also opens the flaps in the exhaust, and everything returns to its previous mode once the boost is done. Audi View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article While the hybrid system has helped improve performance and efficiency, the engine improves in both those areas, too, thanks to a modified Miller combustion cycle, with Audi claiming the engine uses up to 20 percent less fuel under high loads than its predecessor. Preliminary estimates on the EPA's test cycles are 52.3-61.9 mpg with the hybrid system in play and 23.1-24.8 mpg with the battery discharged. As a plug-in hybrid, the new RS 5 is also capable of up to 54 miles of all-electric city driving in comfort or balanced modes. In EV mode, the paddles behind the steering wheel can adjust the recuperation rate, and when depleted, the 25.9 kWh battery can be recharged at up to 11 kW, or to 100 percent in 2.5 hours. But won't the added weight compromise handling? 2027 Audi RS 5 Is More Agile Audi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Audi has made the most of the hybrid situation by putting the battery under the trunk floor (which is probably why the automaker hasn't yet revealed cargo capacities), optimizing weight balance, and the limited-slip center differential, which is always partially locked for improved handling, can switch torque between the two axles variably between 70/30 and 15/85. This means the new RS 5 should be even more willing to allow controlled oversteer than the old RS 5 Competition, and the driving dynamics controller calculates longitudinal and transverse G forces, yaw rate, slip angle, speed, and the estimated friction coefficient of the road every five milliseconds, helping pull one out of lairy situations nearly instantly. Like its M3 rival, there's a drift recorder and analyzer. The body is also 10 percent stiffer than the A5 upon which this is based, and it's an impressive 3.5 inches wider, too. Audi has also widened the wheels and increased camber to improve handling, and the engineers have reduced the resistance of the moving parts in the transmission to enable faster shifts, with the ratios closely stacked for rapid acceleration. Audi View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article When it's time to stop the 5,192-lb sedan or 5,225-lb Avant (wagon), the RS 5 uses 420 mm front and 400 mm rear steel brakes with black or red calipers as standard or 440 mm front/410 mm rear carbon-ceramics as an option, saving 66 lbs. These sit behind 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels in bespoke rubber, though forged 21s can be had in metallic black, Neodymium Gray matte, or a two-tone diamond-cut finish with black metallic accents. 2027 Audi RS 5: Unique Styling Audi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The massive Singleframe honeycomb front grille looks like a catfish's mouth from some angles, bleeding into gloss black lower side intakes, but with the optional Carbon Design Package, these can be finished in carbon fiber, as can the wing mirror caps and rear diffuser trim. Matrix LED headlights can show an RS-specific light signature with a checkered-flag motif, and the OLED taillights also have an RS-specific look when locking or unlocking the car, continuing Audi's signature evolution of the tech. These can even show special warning symbols to warn other drivers of accidents or breakdowns on the road ahead. Vents behind the front wheels show the RS 5's relation to the 8Y RS 3, and unlike the M3 that uses the same rear doors as the base 3 Series, the RS 5's muscular bulges aren't awkwardly integrated. The tall diffuser houses an F1-style reflector (not a light) between two enormous oval exhaust tips. What about paint? Nine colors are on offer, though we've only been given images of two. These include Ascari Blue, Mythos Black, and Progressive Red metallic finishes, with Audi Exclusive offering Merlin pearl, Goodwood Green, and Panther Black crystal, as well as Plateau Grey matte paint, which is only available on the RS 5. 2027 Audi RS 5 Interior: Screen Time Audi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Like the A5, the center of the dash features a 14.5-inch MMI curved OLED touchscreen that can show a visualization of energy flows under acceleration or when regenerating energy under braking, as well as readouts for the temperatures of the tires, transmission, and rear transaxle. The driver gets an 11.9-inch screen behind the squared wheel, which has RS and boost buttons, plus a noon marker, in red. The passenger also gets a screen, like in a Ferrari 12Cilindri, measuring 10.9 inches, but unlike the Ferrari, this comes standard. Naturally, the screens have RS-specific features, like displays for engine RPM, speed, and a shift light. There are also modes showing G forces, pressures and temperatures for individual tires, lap times, and other performance data like power and acceleration. Optionally, a configurable head-up display shows RPM, speed, and the selected gear, and this can be shown as a dial. The HUD also includes a shift indicator and acceleration readouts, and there's a launch control guide for maximum explosiveness off the line. Audi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Five designs are available for the interior, which gets honeycomb quilting on the sports seats and massage functions up front. Each has different color themes, with red and gold showcased in these images, and the base interior has no leather, instead using Cascade cloth for the seat centers and Dinamica microfiber for the inner seat bolsters. The latter material also appears on the knee pad, instrument panel, armrests, and door mirror areas. If you opt for genuine leather, red or gray is on offer, and the seats gain climate control. Accent trims can be had in carbon fiber, matte brushed aluminum, or an RS-specific aluminum rhombus design in black. Optional RS 5 Packaging and Prices Audi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Audi Sport package mentioned earlier enlarges the front intakes and makes the diffuser more aggressive. It also unlocks Bedford Green metallic paint and unique 21-inch bi-color wheels with the carbon-ceramic calipers in bronze. Matte black exhaust tips are also added, and inside, the cabin gets brass accents and Serpentine Green contrast stitching, plus a unique 6 o'clock insert on the steering wheel. The Carbon Camouflage pack is also available when you spec the Audi Sport package, adding forged carbon fiber elements inside and out. U.S. pricing and availability have not yet been announced, but in Germany, the RS 5 Sedan starts at €106,200 (~$125,000) and the Avant at €107,850 (~$127,000). Which would you have? Audi View the full article

Catalytic converter thefts have affected motorists for years. These emission control devices contain valuable precious metals, making them a target for criminals and leaving car owners with bills of more than $2,500 to replace the component. In 2024, approximately 14,000 converters were stolen, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). While brands like Toyota have made anti-theft devices available, more needs to be done. That’s where new anti-theft legislation comes in, and it’s just taken a meaningful step towards being signed into law. Understanding the Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act Toyota On February 10, new legislation to prevent thefts of catalytic converters in the U.S. moved from a Congressional subcommittee and will now go to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, reports Automotive News. The Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act, also known as the PART Act, will be at the center of reducing thefts and tracing stolen converters more effectively. Under the PART Act, new vehicles must have the VIN stamped onto the converter, allowing law enforcement officers to link stolen parts to vehicles. For vehicles already on the road, a grant program will be established under the PART Act. This will allow repair shops or dealerships to mark catalytic converters with vehicle VINs at no cost to the owners. The theft, sale, known purchase, or trafficking of converters will incur a federal crime penalty of up to five years. “The PART Act offers a practical solution to an issue impacting law enforcement, businesses and vehicle owners across the nation,” said Amy Wright, spokesperson for the National Automobile Dealers Association. She said this month’s vote “is a positive step forward. NADA remains committed to advocating for the bill’s passage in Congress and getting it to the president’s desk.” Related: How To Prevent Thieves From Stealing Your Catalytic Converter Commonly Targeted Vehicles Toyota Some vehicle types are targeted more often than others. According to data from Carfax, these models include the Ford F-Series, Honda Accord, Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V, and Ford Explorer. It’s no surprise, then, that Toyota specifically offers a dealer-installed catalytic converter anti-theft guard for the Prius hatchback. There are many other aftermarket anti-theft devices available, and acquiring one will be far cheaper than replacing the converter, assuming such a theft isn’t covered by your insurance. You can also take special care not to park in dark places or to keep your car parked in a garage where possible. If you’re forced to park outside your home, installing cameras in the area could act as a deterrent. What It Means Cole Attisha If introduced, the new Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act promises to reduce catalytic converter thefts and make it easier to find perpetrators. What it won’t do is completely cut the risk of your vehicle’s converter being stolen, which is why car owners should take all reasonable measures to keep vehicles protected. Beyond catalytic converters, other expensive car parts are increasingly targeted by thieves. LED headlight assemblies are also vulnerable, especially on high-end luxury models, while a wave of radar sensor thefts on modern Hondas was recently reported. The PART Act could be the most significant federal action yet to address one of the costliest and most frustrating crimes faced by car owners. View the full article

Ram And Cummins Turn Up The IncentivesOver a year ago, Cummins agreed to pay $1.675 billion after the EPA found its 6.7-liter diesel engine let too much nitrogen oxide slip through in real-world driving. In short, they pollute the environment. That engine powers a huge number of Ram heavy-duty pickups, so the impact was big. Part of the deal was a promise to update the emissions software on about 630,000 Ram 2500 and 3500 trucks built from 2013 to 2019. Cummins also has to get at least 85 percent of those trucks fixed within three years. Last year, Cummins tried to sweeten the deal with free extended warranties, social media reminders, and even some small merch packs. It helped, but not enough owners showed up. Now Cummins is raising the stakes. Finish Emissions Recall 67A and you get $500 – more if you act fast. Ram What The Fix Actually DoesThe recall, known as Emissions Recall 67A, applies primarily to 2013–2018 Ram HD trucks equipped with the 6.7-liter Cummins turbo diesel. Some 2019 models were handled under a separate campaign. The fix is straightforward. Bring your truck to a Ram dealer, and they’ll load the new emissions software. It usually takes less than an hour, and you don’t pay anything. The update tweaks how the truck injects and manages diesel exhaust fluid, cutting down on nitrogen oxide at the tailpipe. Cummins says most owners won’t notice any drop in performance or fuel economy, though some 2016–2018 trucks might lose about half a mile per gallon in city or light-load driving. To reassure owners, Cummins is adding extra warranty coverage with the recall. You get 10 years or 120,000 miles from when the truck first went on the road, or four years and 48,000 miles from when you get the update – whichever gives you more time. Even so, plenty of owners – especially those with high-mileage trucks that seem fine – are holding back. That’s likely why Cummins is now offering more cash. Ram What’s the Catch?Owners need to complete Recall 67A at an authorized dealership, then file a claim through Cummins’ recall website. Once the update is confirmed, you can request the $500 incentive. The $1,000 payout is only available to the first 750 qualifying owners who complete the recall and submit their claim after February 17, 2026. After that, the incentive goes back to $500. There’s no charge for the recall, but you only get the payout if your truck receives the updated emissions software. For Cummins, offering these incentives is less expensive than missing the 85 percent completion target and facing more penalties. For owners, it’s a question of whether a software update and extra warranty coverage are worth up to $1,000. Ram View the full article

Assembly Line Leaks Point to Late-Summer LaunchThe Ram 1500 TRX is staging a comeback, and if newly surfaced assembly line images are any indication, the first 2027 units are already being built. YouTuberButter Da Insider discussed in a recent video details of plant leaks and dealer communications, noting that pre-production TRXs are rolling down the line ahead of what appears to be a late-summer retail launch. Although Ram has yet to formally confirm production timing, internal documents and dealer briefings indicate the high-performance pickup is further along than many anticipated. The brand has already stated that a more powerful TRX is on the way, setting it up to take aim once again at the Ford F-150 Raptor R and reassert itself at the top of the off-road performance truck segment. It has been some time since the TRX exited production, and anticipation surrounding its return is clearly building. Leaked Timeline Calendar: Allocations Arrive in MayDealers are expected to receive allocation details for the 2027 TRX in May. Allocation formulas will reportedly be tied to light-duty Ram 1500 sales performance from February through April. In simple terms, dealers that sell more standard Ram 1500 trucks during that window will receive more TRX allocations. One example suggests a 1:50 ratio of TRX to light-duty trucks sold, though the exact formula has not been confirmed. There is conflicting information on production timing. An internal calendar reportedly lists August 3 as the first day of TRX production. Dealer communications indicate July could be the actual start. Late summer remains the most realistic timeframe for retail units. YouTube: @ButterDaInsider View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Stellantis Under Pressure to Deliver a Halo WinStellantis has instructed dealers to pursue aggressive sales growth after years of decline. That directive increases pressure on halo vehicles to generate traffic and reinforce brand strength. The TRX serves that purpose. It is not a volume product. It is a statement piece designed to elevate the Ram lineup. Ram’s CEO previously suggested that the TRX is not intended for daily driving due to its extreme power output. Comments like that only amplify its appeal among enthusiasts. If the 2027 model delivers the promised power, it could become both a performance benchmark and a strategic win. For Ram and Stellantis, this launch carries weight beyond horsepower figures. Ram View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

In the immediate aftermath of Justin Allgaier blocking Denny Hamlin from the lead and triggering 'The Big One' in the 68th Daytona 500, the JR Motorsports driver took ‘100 percent’ of the blame but the Joe Gibbs Racing contender conceded his share a day later. The crash took place approaching the end of the second stage and collected 20 cars on Lap 124. Allgaier left about enough space for ...Keep readingView the full article

M All the ThingsWhen the BMW M division started, it was primarily focused on, well, motorsports. It didn't start building road cars until the M1 from 1978, and that range expanded several years later with the M5, M6, and M3. Today, the reality is much different. Of course, BMW M is still hugely successful on the world's race tracks. However, nearly everything Bavaria offers these days has an M or M Performance version. Save for the 2 Series mini-MPV in select markets, you're bound to encounter a high-powered version of a BMW at some point, including crossovers. BMW M Crossovers Through the YearsWhen it first launched in 1999, the BMW X5 was revolutionary in many ways. While it wasn't the first luxury crossover (the Lexus RX came first), it offered handling previously unseen in the world of SUVs. Sure, it wasn't as sharp to drive as an E39 5 Series, but it was genuinely great to drive despite its height. Soon after, BMW rolled out a performance model in the form of the 4.6iS and followed up with the 4.8iS later on. However, the second-generation X5 was the first to receive the M badge. Soon after, it was complemented by the X6 M and X3 M. There's even the XM, and while a slow-seller, it's proof that there's no stopping the performance crossover madness. BMW Will There Be Hardcore M Crossovers?Like it or not, performance crossovers have become a massively popular and profitable market. If anything, the M crossovers are raking in serious cash for BMW, and the new X3 M50 sits at the top of the sales charts. Just imagine how much more they'll sell if they build an all-new X3 M. Expanding the M crossover lineup should bring in more sales, right? Well, yes, but BMW seems to be aware there is a limit to insanity. Speaking to CarExpert, M boss Frank van Meel has confirmed that they won't be offering the X3, X5, and X6 hardcore CS versions any time soon. Ladies and gentlemen, sanity has prevailed. CS stands for Competition Sport, and these are stripped-out, more-focused, and track-oriented versions of the already competent Competition models. It's currently available on the M2 and M3, and we can expect the same on the all-new M5. "Right now, we keep it with the lower cars, because it was the more logical approach, especially looking into our heritage with GTS with CSL," said van Meel. A good answer, and besides, even Porsche doesn't make a Cayenne or Macan GT3 RS. A Different Approach InsteadOf course, BMW M is not closing the door on even hotter crossovers. But rather than turning its X models into track cars, they're looking off the beaten path for inspiration. "I could imagine M on off-road products, because if you come from racing, there’s not only the WEC [World Endurance Championship] and IMSA [International Motor Sports Association] [sports car categories], but the Paris-Dakar [off-road rally]," said van Meel. As reported a few months ago, the company is plotting a potential rival for the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. It's said to replace the XM, which has struggled to find customers, and it'll be an interesting little project for the brand. But aside from that, it does open up the idea of Raptor-like versions for its existing models. ThinkX5 Silver Anniversary Edition on steroids, and if BMW pushes through with that, we'd totally root for it. BMW View the full article

Off-Road Sports Cars? Yes, PleaseWho would've thought that off-road sports cars would be a thing? We're not talking crossovers that happen to have a lot of horsepower here, and good luck taking them dune-bashing without breaking anything. Instead, we're getting proper sports cars getting outfitted for the rough stuff, and we're all here for it. One shining example is, or rather was, the Porsche 911 Dakar. Save for a low-range gearbox, the limited-run model came with pretty epic mods straight from the factory, and it's not afraid to get all scratched up, either. That said, one can say that most are bound to gather dust in a garage and not in the great outdoors. Definitely Not All-ShowOf course, it's understandable why most owners would rather baby the car than really use it for what it can do. With only 2,500 built, preserving it seems like the better option. The thing is, it wastes the potential of the car, and we're glad that there are those who actually stretch the 911 Dakar's legs. And why wouldn't you play with it on the dirt? It features a specialized suspension system engineered for high-speed off-road use, underbody protection, all-terrain tires, and unique drive modes, and it can be raised to provide more ground clearance than some crossovers. Proving its WorthSocial media has shown a couple of 911 Dakars in their element, but one family wanted to prove that the car is more than capable of taking on tougher challenges. That's why one was entered in the gruelling Rally dos Sertões by Susele and Fredy Piotto Vogt. Oh, and it's their personal 911 Dakar that ran the rally. That, folks, is how you enjoy the car. What is Rally dos Sertões, you ask? It's a competition held in Brazil and has been running since 1993. Think of it as a mini version of the Dakar Rally, but that doesn't make it any less difficult. The route saw the Piotto Vogt family (they brought their son, cat, and dog along) drive through forest stages, river crossings, and rough roads that would make most crossover owners wince. Porsche Winning in LifeThe Rally dos Sertões is mainly for motorcycles and ATVs, but cars are also welcome to join. That said, the 911 Dakar is a special vehicle and therefore not eligible for the main competition group. Still, even with no prizes on hand, the Piotto Vogt family just went out there and did it. If anything, the special route for non-classified competitors was even longer than the actual rally. All in all, they travelled 4,623 miles in the 911, mostly on unpaved roads for eight days. They also used a Mercedes-Benz G-Class as a support vehicle, and the couple rotated driving duties between stages. No trophies, no cash prizes, but the Piotto Vogt family won something far greater than that. That would be the adventure they made and all the experiences in between. Not a lot of people can say they embarked on an off-road trek over 4,500 miles long, and fewer still can say they completed a rally even in their personal Porsche. We're pretty sure their son has epic tales to share with his classmates, too. Porsche Porsche View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Tesla's Self-Sufficient SystemTesla has always prided itself on being self-sufficient in all aspects of automotive manufacturing. Over the years, they've maintained a focus on offering only self-developed products and features, creating their own ecosystem. Times are changing, and most car owners are looking for features not available in Tesla's offerings, such as seamless phone connectivity via apps like Apple CarPlay. Integration of which has been challenging, but recent news indicates it has just become a little bit more difficult. T Apple CarPlay DelayLast year, Tesla announced that it's officially working on integrating the Apple CarPlay phone connectivity feature into their cars. This move was made to attract more buyers of their cars. At the time, they acknowledged that this was a feature highly requested by the public. In fact, the plan to add CarPlay was intended to be available by the end of 2025. We're now well into the first half of 2026, and the integration remains incomplete. This, however, doesn't mean it has been cancelled; Tesla is still going full steam ahead with the plan. A few key points have come up for both companies that need to be fine-tuned and addressed before the rollout can fully begin. A Bloomberg report noted technical issues during the project's testing with Apple Maps and Tesla's in-house mapping software. This could cause issues with Tesla Autopilot's self-driving capabilities: the turn-by-turn guidance from Tesla's own maps didn't integrate properly with Apple Maps while Autopilot was engaged. The resolution is that Apple would need to make changes to its Maps app to improve compatibility. Apple/YouTube Slow User UpdatesApple has already done its part by introducing an update to the Maps feature in iOS 26. The issue at hand, and the main cause of the delay, has been the slow updates on the Apple users' end, meaning not enough people have updated to the latest iOS 26 by the year end 2025 target that they had. More recently, Apple announced that 74% of all iPhones released in the past four years have already updated to the latest version of iOS 26. Hopefully, the roll-out happens soon, with more users already using the fixed version. If it seems nitpicky to some, a study conducted late last year found that more than half of drivers say losing Apple CarPlay is a deal-breaker when buying a new car. Tesla and Apple are on the right track; they just need to expedite the process. Apple/YouTube View the full article

Zane Smith came up just short of winning the Daytona 500 but a sixth-place finish combined with a victory in the first stage leaves his No. 38 Front Row Motorsports team fourth in the early championship standings. This is more an important result than at any point of the past decade because a good points day very much has value under the restored Chase for the Championship coming up in ...Keep readingView the full article

Hybrid-Only in America, but Not EverywhereBy now, you should already know that the RAV4 gone fully electrified in the US. Buyers still have options, but those options are now limited to hybrid or plug-in hybrid setups – much like what happened with the Camry when it dropped its pure combustion models. But that’s not the case everywhere. In places like the Middle East and China, you can still buy a RAV4 with a traditional gasoline engine. Toyota seems to be reading the room in each market, adjusting its lineup based on what local buyers want. New RAV4 in the Middle EastToyota just launched the all-new RAV4 in the Middle East, bringing in fresh styling, a more refined chassis, and the latest fifth-generation hybrid system as the main powertrain. But here’s the interesting part: the base model still comes with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine making 169 horsepower, which means the fundamentals haven’t changed much from the previous XA50 generation. Buyers in the region get to pick between two design themes: Core, which leans toward a cleaner, more urban look, and Adventure, which adds a bit of ruggedness for those who want something tougher. Inside, the RAV4 gets a redesigned cabin with bigger infotainment screens, the latest Toyota Safety Sense, and options like a head-up display and panoramic roof. Toyota China’s “RAV4” that Isn’t Called RAV4Over in China, the RAV4 goes by a different name: Wildlander. It’s built through Toyota’s joint venture with GAC, but underneath, it’s still very much a RAV4. Unlike the American lineup, China’s Wildlander still has a naturally aspirated gasoline engine alongside hybrid options, providing a non-electrified alternative. As in the Middle East, the RAV4, err, Wildlander in China uses the same 2.0-liter engine with identical power output. The Wildlander’s styling is similar to the RAV4’s Core design, though packaging and trim options differ. Toyota’s move toward a fully hybrid RAV4 appears to be the long-term direction, but the continued availability of non-hybrid versions in other markets obviously keeps the company flexible. That said, if demand for hybrids slows in key regions like the US, Toyota can quickly return to combustion-based models. Or at least that’s what we think. Cole Attisha View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Filling up in Pennsylvania has always felt like navigating localized tax pitfalls, but the start of 2026 has brought a fresh set of headaches for drivers in the Keystone State. While national gas prices have fluctuated, Pennsylvania has seen a steady climb over the past month or so, causing many commuters to do double-takes. Between lingering effects of a harsh winter and the state’s notoriously high fuel taxes, the cost of a gallon of gas keeps rising. In some areas, local tax rates spike to over 60 cents. That’s not the only culprit, of course. Location matters, and, like many other states, Pennsylvania is experiencing supply chain disruptions. In a state where $3.00 per gallon is increasingly becoming the floor rather than the ceiling, drivers are asking why. Brandon Bell/Getty Images Gas taxes and infrastructure feesPennsylvania consistently ranks among the highest states for gas tax in the country. The state's liquid fuels tax currently sits at 57.6 cents per gallon, but that's only part of the story. When you factor in additional environmental and infrastructure fees, the tax burden moves closer to the 60-cent range. Unlike states where tax changes require a legislative showdown, Pennsylvania’s system is designed to adjust based on wholesale gas prices, creating a floor that ensures the state collects billions of dollars for road and bridge repairs regardless of crude oil prices. This tax load creates a permanent price gap between Pennsylvania and neighboring states, such as Maryland or Ohio, often by as much as 20 to 30 cents. When you add the 18.4-cent federal tax on top of the state’s cut, nearly 76 cents of every gallon of gas you buy is going to the government before the gas station even sees a dime. For residents seeing a 60-cent year-over-year swing in specific regions, the tax structure is a multiplier that prevents local prices from ever feeling truly cheap. Related: The 5 cheapest gas stations in Chicago, today Winter storms and refinery hiccupsFebruary 2026 has not been kind to the East Coast energy grid. A series of severe winter storms forced several regional refineries into unplanned maintenance. When temperatures drop, equipment used to process crude oil into gasoline may go offline for safety reasons, immediately tightening the local supply. These disruptions, combined with pre-storm rushes to fill up, created the perfect environment for the 10-cent pricing pop we saw in late January. Refineries are also entering a turnaround season, during which they perform scheduled maintenance to prepare for the switch to summer-blend gasoline. This transition presents logistical issues, including purging winter-grade stocks to meet EPA smog requirements. This process inherently reduces output and drives up costs. Because Pennsylvania relies on a complex network of pipelines and storage facilities that are sensitive to these seasonal shifts, the price at the pump often reflects these turnarounds weeks before the first warm spring day actually arrives. Bloomberg/Getty Images How bad is it in Pennsylvania?If you’re driving in or around Philadelphia, the forecast for the next few months isn't particularly sunny for your bank account. As we move deeper into the spring of 2026, refineries are beginning the mandatory switch to summer-blend gasoline, a more complex and expensive formula designed to reduce evaporative emissions during the heat. GasBuddy’s recent data suggests this transition typically adds another 12 to 15 cents per gallon to the retail price in the Northeast corridor. Because Philadelphia relies on a specific "boutique" blend to meet local air quality standards, the city often sees these spikes earlier and more sharply than the central part of the state. The outlook for the Philadelphia metro area through May 2026 suggests that the current average of $3.11 is the lull before a spring peak. Analysts expect the regional average to flirt with the $3.35 mark before any meaningful relief arrives in late June - if it even comes. While the statewide trend has been a 60-cent climb over the last twelve months, Philly's urban density and supply chain bottlenecks suggest greater volatility. For those in the city, the "relief" may be a mid-summer plateau. For Erie residents, a 60-cent jump this year has been particularly jarring because the region doesn't have the same relief options as those living near the Ohio line. The current $3.31 price reflects regional supply tightening following the winter storms that hit the Great Lakes earlier this month. Disclaimer: All prices cited in this article are based on publicly available user-generated feedback. Gas stations do not provide daily reports on gas prices, and prices can change at any time. Autoblog is not responsible for the accuracy of pricing listed with user-generated reporting. Related: Gas prices in California are flirting with $5/gallon today - here’s why View the full article

It appeared over the weekend that NASCAR implemented a new policy that made an extra effort to not reasonably throw a caution on the final lap of a superspeedway race. It appeared that way because NASCAR evenly applied that stance in both the Truck and Cup race across two different race directors. But also, throughout the weekend, solo car spins without any additional contact that unevenly drew ...Keep readingView the full article

Today marks 25 years since we lost Dale Earnhardt. Heading into the 2026 Daytona 500, Motorsport.com already put together a special feature in remembrance of that day and his impact on the sport, but today, we want to do something different. In this simple story, we're going to focus on seven of Dale's most impressive and memorable NASCAR Cup Series wins, in honor of the seven-time ...Keep readingView the full article

The global car industry is not in the rudest of health right now, and one of the companies bearing the brunt of that more than others is Stellantis. Whether it’s sluggish sales or sizeable losses due to a changing market, it’s no secret that the mega-company formed by the 2021 merger of Fiat-Chrysler and Europe’s PSA group has been struggling of late. However, it’s not all bad news for the company, as it’s just added around 1,700 new jobs in Canada in a third shift at its assembly plant in Windsor, Ontario, the first overnight shift at the factory since 2020. ‘A Real Boon to the Economy’ The overnight shift started on Monday evening, with union rep Jordyn White-Mailloux telling CBC that “everything went good.” James Stewart, the president of local union Unifor Local 444, called the extra shift “the only definitive good news in the auto industry right now,” and said it’ll provide “a real boon to the Windsor-Essex economy.” Speaking to CBC, Stewart also said that the increase in production will bring trickle-down benefits to the wider industry, saying that his “conversations with people across the country and even across the border” all plant the new shift “in the good news category.” Demand for Muscle Cars… Dodge The Windsor plant, where Stellantis and its predecessors have been building vehicles since the 1950s, currently assembles two models, one of which is the new Dodge Charger. While sales of the model got off to a slow start thanks to it debuting with a fully electric powertrain in 2024, it seems that demand is finally picking up. That’s doubtless thanks to the fact that the Charger is now available with the new 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six 'Sixpack' engine too, in either standard 420 HP or 550 HP High Output guises. With demand for electric cars, especially performance-oriented ones, still weak, getting a combustion-powered Charger on sale as soon as possible was a must, and it seems to be paying dividends. …And Minivans Chrysler The other car built at Windsor is the Chrysler Pacifica, continuing a long history of the group’s minivans being produced there. It may be celebrating its 10th birthday this year, and the only model currently sold under the Chrysler brand, but it remains the sales leader in a segment that looks to be undergoing something of a renaissance after being knocked off its perch by three-row SUVs as the big family transport of choice. That the two models are in high enough demand for Stellantis to add a night shift is a much-needed bit of positivity for both the company and the wider industry. If the Charger does end up getting the Hemi that industry murmurs suggest it might, we can only assume that demand will go up even more. View the full article

A Mustang Movie IconThe Ford Mustang isn’t only an icon in the automotive world – it’s also a star in Hollywood, having appeared in films like 2014’s John Wick and Need for Speed. But perhaps its most iconic role came in the 2000's Gone in 60 Seconds, where the 1967 Mustang Fastback “Eleanor” became a legend in its own right. So legendary, in fact, that Cinema Muscle Recreations built a limited run of 25 “Eleanor” continuation cars – and the first production example (Series No. 1) is now heading to auction via Mecum Auctions. Bringing the project to life wasn’t as straightforward as it may seem. Denice Halicki, who owns the rights to the original 1974 Gone in 60 Seconds, argued that “Eleanor” was a copyrightable character – meaning even Shelby couldn’t legally build a tribute or replica. However, in 2025, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Eleanor was simply a movie prop, effectively clearing the way for licensed recreations. The decision allowed Cinema Muscle Recreations – the same team involved with the original movie cars – to move forward with its 25th-anniversary production run. Mecum Auctions Built to Be More Than a Movie StarWhile a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 comes standard, Series No. 1 is equipped with the optional sixth-generation Stage II 3.0-liter Whipple supercharger, along with the optional Tremec six-speed manual transmission. The drivetrain also features a Fab9 g-Bar Ford 9-inch rear end, though power ratings were not listed. The suspension features G-Machine front control arms and Total Control Products adjustable coilover shocks at all four corners. Forgeline 18-inch wheels – wrapped in Nitto NT55 tires – are paired with Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes, utilizing six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers. Mecum Auctions Time to Go Baby GoInside, the cabin features monogrammed deluxe front seats with 25th-anniversary badging throughout. It also includes a faux roll cage and a hand-crank window mechanism, even though it is equipped with power windows. In a nod to the film, the transmission lever is topped with a “Go Baby Go” button, referencing the switch Randall “Memphis” Raines (Nicolas Cage) used in Gone in 60 Seconds to activate the nitrous system for an extra boost. Serial No. 1 of the 1967 Ford Mustang Eleanor Fastback 25th Anniversary Edition is scheduled to cross the block at Indy 2026 on May 16. It’s listed as one of the event’s main attractions, joining other notable lots such as a 1977 Pontiac Trans Am and one of just six Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 S Edition Roadsters. Mecum Auctions View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Chase Briscoe ‘dipped my toes the bald community’ last month but it was a hoax, online fake news and AI rubbish. With all the attention and focus on the new look three-time Cup Series champion Joey Logano has received since taking a trimmer and razor to his dome, Briscoe decided to respond to his well-documented follicle situation by shaving his own head. However, it wasn’t real, and ...Keep readingView the full article

Tesla’s first Cybercab has officially rolled off the production line in Texas, a milestone that Elon Musk shared enthusiastically on social media platform X. A two-passenger, self-driving electric vehicle with no steering wheel or pedals, the Cybercab is a marked step up from the company’s robotaxi fleet. The Model Y robotaxi still requires a human “safety monitor” in most cases, but the Cybercab has no means of it being driven manually at all—and that’s why major questions remain, as Tesla’s current level of autonomy appears unprepared for a vehicle that relies on the software exclusively. Related: Tesla Has Over 1,000 “Robotaxis” on the Road—But They All Have Human Drivers $30,000 Price Confirmed, TooCongratulations to the Tesla team on making the first production Cybercab! https://t.co/TFSVQcbME5 — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) February 17, 2026 Coinciding with the first production Cybercab, Musk appeared to confirm a starting price of $30,000 for the fully autonomous vehicle in a response to Dillon Loomis, Tesla enthusiast and content creator. That supports Tesla’s desire for the Cybercab to be one of the most affordable vehicles to operate; Musk previously said he wants to hit a figure of $0.20 per mile for the vehicle, which includes everything from charging to insurance and depreciation. Elon Musk just confirmed that Tesla will deliver a Cybercab to a customer for $30,000 or less by the end of 2026 😎 https://t.co/UmVjqfhbAP pic.twitter.com/Gz79QPpkKe — Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) February 17, 2026 Ride-hailing companies like Lyft and Uber are expected to be the primary initial customers for the Cybercab, but the goal is also for private owners to buy them. In theory, it would be a game-changer for people who can’t drive, whether out of choice or if they have a disability. A peek inside the Cybercab shows nothing but two seats and a center touchscreen, as conventional driving controls aren’t needed at all. Related: Autonomy Showdown: Tesla's Full-Self Driving (FSD) vs Rivian's Universal Hands Free (USF) Update Many Cybercab Challenges Await Tesla Cybercab Tesla View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article While getting the first production model built is an achievement, there remains much skepticism about the mass appeal of the Cybercab. For starters, Tesla may not even be able to use the Cybercab name due to a trademark dispute with a French beverage company. But that’s insignificant alongside the autonomous driving software the Cybercab will need. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system in cars like the Model 3 and Model Y has made great strides in recent months, but it’s still a Level 2 system that requires human supervision—and nowhere near the Level 5 autonomy required of the Cybercab. Yes, Tesla does have a small fleet of self-driving robotaxis on the road, but these have mostly required a human’s supervision, too. Furthermore, there have been a worrying number of low-speed robotaxi crashes in Austin, Texas, even with a human present to supervise trips. Finally, Musk said in January that the production rate of Cybercab will initially be “agonizingly slow,” given that it’s such a new concept within the Tesla lineup. Our Take: Cybercab Exists, But True Autonomy Doesn’t T Tesla seems to have gone about developing the Cybercab in a rather backwards fashion. Logically, it should have perfected autonomous driving before the Cybercab was produced, something it has yet to do. An unsupervised FSD system would have been a solid step in the right direction. Beyond that, Tesla would have ideally had such vehicles on the road for long enough to prove their safety and reliability. Once you remove physical driver controls, passengers are entirely at the mercy of properly functioning software. Getting the software right and proving the Cybercab’s safety credentials must be Tesla's priority right now. Until then, we can only be cautiously optimistic about the driverless vehicle. View the full article