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Staying PositiveWe've extensively covered over the past few months how the EV industry is facing challenging times. Sales haven't been stellar, and this trend has been across the board, not isolated to one model or brand. Despite this, certain brands have remained steadfast and optimistic. Jeep, for example, is still full steam ahead for the Recon model. Rivian is also still very excited about the launch of the upcoming R2, having already revealed targets for the year. Rivian Mass Market FirstA lot is riding on the Rivian R2; the EV startup brand has been teasing it heavily, and even using a Star Wars-themed approach to garner more interest in it. The fact is, though, that the R2 is Rivian's first real mass-market model and is widely regarded as a make-or-break model. Rivian CFO Claire McDonough said that the company plans to deliver 62,000-67,000 cars in 2026 across all models. Furthermore, she said the contributions of the R1 and commercial van models are expected to be roughly the same in 2025, at around 42,000 units. Considering the 2026 target for the entire brand and the other models not named R2, it appears Rivian is going big for the R2, expecting a 20,000-plus increase in sales by the end of 2026. McDonough noted that the true sales spike for the R2 is expected in the second half of the year. That's a strong statement and shows Rivian's confidence in the R2's ability to anchor the brand's sales going forward. In terms of specifications, the R2 will be offered in three possible configurations: single motor, dual motor, and tri motor. Full Steam AheadAccording to reports, Rivian is set to offer the R2 for around the same price as a Tesla Model Y of $45,000. Production is set to begin soon with a Summer 2026 launch date around the corner. We even wrote about it possibly falling around May 4th, given the recent spotting of R2s in Star Wars livery being shot by a production team. Also backing up McDonough's statement was the founder and CEO himself, RJ Scaringe. He expects the R2 to account for the majority of sales volume by 2027. This aligns with the expansion of the Normal, Illinois factory, which will be capable of producing 215,000 units annually, 155,000 of which will be R2 models. There are even plans to move production to a new plant in Georgia by the end of the decade. Reddit/Own_Airport6086 View the full article

The Chevrolet Corvette may be a quintessentially American sports car, but the mid-engined C8 is the most global the model’s ever been, and that includes it being built in right-hand drive for markets like the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Now, those latter two are getting their own special edition of the supercar-slaying Corvette Z06, marking the car’s debut in the brutal Bathurst 12 Hour race, which takes place this weekend at the storied Australian circuit. Related: The Chevy Corvette ZR1 Is Priced Like a Lamborghini in Europe A Mayoral Seal of Approval Chevrolet The C8 Corvette has been going racing pretty much since it was launched, but it’s so far not had a chance to compete in one of sports car racing's totem events – the Bathurst 12 Hour that runs from dawn til dusk at the punishing Mount Panorama Circuit in New South Wales, Australia. That’s changing on Sunday February 15, as a pair of Corvette Z06 GT3.R racers will take the start, marking not only the car’s Bathurst debut but its first race on Australian soil full stop. To celebrate, GM Speciality Vehicles – the outfit responsible for importing US-built GM vehicles to Australia following the death of Holden five years ago – has created the special edition Corvette Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour. It’s not often you hear a mayor giving a new car the thumbs up, but that’s just what’s happened here, with the mayor of the town of Bathurst, Robert Taylor, saying: “As owner of the Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit we’re excited to be involved in this project… It cements the importance of the circuit on the international stage and helps us to continue to grow our brand and reputation in the motorsport market alongside an internationally recognised company” A Unique Spec Chevrolet Mechanically, the Bathurst 12 Hour edition is identical to the standard Z06, meaning it gets the flat-plane crank 5.5-liter LT5 engine – the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 ever fitted to a road car at 670 HP. The Z07 Performance Package comes as standard too, bringing magnetic adaptive damping, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R rubber and a carbon aero package. As a reminder, all that means 0-60 MPH in 2.6 seconds and a 195 MPH top speed. The special edition comes exclusively in Switchblade Silver with its carbon aero bits painted in Carbon Flash. Elsewhere, there are blue brake calipers, a C8.R-inspired graphics package and wheel center caps featuring ‘Jake’, the skull/crash helmet hybrid that serves as a mascot for the factory Corvette racing efforts. The interior’s trimmed in Jet Black and Santorini Blue leather, and the whole thing is topped off with a smattering of Bathurst 12 Hour logos inside and out. A Serious Rarity Chevrolet Just 12 Z06 Bathurst 12 Hour editions are set to be built, all for the Australian and New Zealand markets, and representing the entire 2026 allocation of Z06s for those countries. As well as serious exclusivity bragging rights, the 12 buyers will get some other goodies thrown in, including a Bathurst 12 Hour art print, a Corvette Racing merch pack and a fitted car cover that apes the livery of the Z06.R racer. The only question mark left is the price, but with so few units available, and all of them likely going to antipodean Corvette superfans, there’s little doubt that the run will be snapped up quicker than a crocodile strikes its prey. View the full article

It is impossible to understate the impact Dale Earnhardt had on NASCAR, and the void left when he died on the final lap of the 2001 Daytona 500. At the time, he was holding back several cars while the two he owned -- the No. 15 of Michael Waltrip and the No. 8 of his son, Dale Earnhardt Jr., drove off to a Dale Earnhardt Inc. (DEI) 1-2 finish. But mere seconds from finishing third right ...Keep readingView the full article

The third and final practice for the 68th running of the Daytona 500 was very calm, and there were no issues. Of the 41 starters, only 18 actually chose to go out on track. There was some drafting, and the biggest pack formed early with RFK Racing and Team Penske Fords, but also a handful of Chevrolets that joined them. Jimmie Johnson was the only Toyota driver to even go out on track, and ...Keep readingView the full article

As Chinese automakers are aggressively expanding in the European market–their share doubled to over 6% in 2025 compared to the previous year–established local automakers are finding it increasingly difficult to compete, particularly in the electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle segments. That's because Chinese vehicles typically offer electrified vehicles at price parity with conventional cars, thanks to more cost-effective supply chains for battery technology made possible by Chinese state subsidies. Stellantis, which has a big presence in Europe through its many French, Italian and German brands, has found an interesting way to respond to the Chinese expansion. In a move that few anticipated, Stellantis is bringing back diesel versions of some of its models in Europe to better compete against Chinese rivals. "Sustained Customer Demand" For Stellantis Diesels Stellantis "We have decided to keep diesel engines in our product portfolio and—in some cases—to increase our powertrain offer," Stellantis said. "At Stellantis we want to generate growth, that's why we are focused on customer demand." Starting in late 2025, Stellantis began reintroducing diesel engines on models ranging from passenger cars to vans across the Peugeot, Citroën, DS and Opel brands. According to company statements and dealer listings reviewed by Reuters, models like the Peugeot 308 and DS 4 compact hatchbacks, as well as the Opel Combo, Peugeot Rifter, Citroën Berlingo and Fiat Qubo L small vans, are offering diesel engine options again. Furthermore, the Opel Zafira, Peugeot Traveller and Citroën SpaceTourer minivans have received a new 2.2-liter diesel version this month in Europe in addition to the existing all-electric powertrain. In addition to the aforementioned models that are getting diesel options again, Stellantis said in a statement that it will also continue producing diesel-powered models such as the DS 7 SUV, Alfa Romeo Tonale and Stelvio SUVs, and Alfa Romeo Giulia sedan "in response to sustained customer demand." The Fiat brand also offers the Tipo budget family car with a diesel engine. Why Diesel Makes Sense Again In Europe S While Stellantis had previously signaled a shift away from diesel, the company is now backtracking on its previous electrification commitments amid slower-than-expected EV sales in Europe and softened emission rules that previously threatened to phase out combustion engines by 2035. Under its "Dare Forward 2030" strategic plan announced in March 2022, Stellantis targeted producing only electric vehicles in Europe by 2030; the company abandoned that goal last year. The new market conditions allow Stellantis to offer a broader powertrain mix to compete with rivals, including Chinese brands which do not offer diesel engines at all. Reintroducing diesels also makes sense because vehicles powered by these engines are much more affordable than all-electric cars. Only a decade years ago, diesel engines made up at least 50% of new-car sales in Europe, but ever since the Volkswagen Dieselgate emissions scandal, diesel vehicle sales have been declining abruptly. In 2025, diesel vehicles made up just 7.7% of new-car sales across the continent, according to data from European car lobby group ACEA; the share of fully electric cars' was 19.5%. View the full article

After historic snow postponed the Clash at Bowman Gray several days into the week, NASCAR has enjoyed optimal weather for Speedweek at Daytona. However, there is a real threat of thunderstorms on Sunday, and it's all about when -- not if -- the bad weather will arrive. In a proactive move, NASCAR has moved up the start of the 68th running of the Daytona 500 a full hour to 1:30pm EST. The NASCAR ...Keep readingView the full article

Jimmie Johnson will end his NASCAR Cup Series career a year from now with 702 starts in the 69th Daytona 500. Sure, his full-time career with Hendrick Motorsports ended after the 2020 season and then came a chapter that included IMSA and IndyCar with Chip Ganassi Racing but the seven-time Cup champion returned home as a team owner with Legacy Motor Club in 2023. Since then, Johnson has made ...Keep readingView the full article

Tesla’s grip on the U.S. electric vehicle market is slipping faster than many expected. New registration estimates suggest the automaker opened 2026 with a sharp sales decline, continuing a streak of weakening demand and putting even more pressure on its once-dominant position in the EV space. US Sales Hit a Four-Year Low Tesla According to registration estimates from Motor Intelligence, Tesla sold roughly 40,100 vehicles in the US in January 2026. That’s roughly 17% lower than the same month last year and marks the fourth straight month of year-over-year declines, after Tesla hit its lowest point in four years in December 2025. Interestingly, 72% of its January 2026 sales were Cybertrucks – a model that saw a 48.1% year-over-year decline in 2025. On a full-year basis, Motor Intelligence estimates Tesla registered around 568,000 vehicles in the US in 2025, roughly 10% fewer than in 2024. Higher Prices Are Killing The EV Market Tesla Although Elon Musk's alleged ties to Jeffrey Epstein and all his other 'controversial choices' play a part in Tesla's decline, there's more to the story. The expiration of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit in late 2025 effectively pushed prices higher across the board for all EVs, and buyers responded by pulling back. EV sales in America dipped for the first time in years, with January volumes estimated to be nearly 30% lower than a year earlier. According to a Deloitte study, just 7% of US car buyers would buy an EV as their next car. Automakers, Tesla included, have tried to soften the blow by introducing cheaper trims to offset price hikes, but those strategies have yet to bear fruit. So far, that strategy hasn’t been enough to reverse the broader slowdown in demand. Tesla’s Dominance Is Starting to Crack Tesla There are still areas where Tesla dominates. The Model Y remained the best-selling new vehicle in California for the fourth straight year in 2025, outselling even the Toyota RAV4 – the best-selling car in the US. But even there, Tesla’s overall sales continue to slide, falling from 202,865 units in 2024 to 179,656 in 2025. Beyond the US, competition is heating up fast. BYD has overtaken Tesla as the world’s largest EV seller, despite not existing in large markets like the US. At the same time, Tesla just discontinued the Model S and Model X as a result of a decline in sales. Put together, January’s 17% U.S. decline looks less like a short-term dip and more like part of a once-revealed automaker eroding. View the full article

Restomod RoyaltyWhen it comes to restomods or restorations, Singer Vehicle Designs quickly became one of the most famous names in the business. Ever since its first few 911 Singer models hit the market, everyone wanted one (including this author). Since then, several other 911 specialists have introduced their own versions, but Singers are still widely regarded as the King of the niche segment. Now, a new model is already making waves, in true Singer fashion. Meet the Singer 911 Cabriolet. Drop Top GorgeousSinger's calling card has always been restomods of the 964-generation 911, using it as the canvas for the striking creations. The latest 964 reimagination by Singer is relatively tame compared to the others, merely chopping off the roof of a 964, making it a Cabriolet (convertible). While this may sound like a loss in terms of outright handling performance, the fact is that drop-top 911s are highly sought after. First, this Singer 964 looks on-brand, featuring the iconic widebody stance Singers are known for. It would be wrong to assume that they are purely aesthetic, though. Singer always emphasizes keeping its creations up to date with modern standards. Also, since they are reimaginations or restomods, the cars usually showcased are already customer-commissioned. The body is carbon fiber and inspired by the wide turbo body style of the '80s. Its roof is canvas, making it very period-correct, though it is reinforced due to the removal of the roof. In homage to the turbo, it also comes with the whale tail spoiler. It looks elegant and aggressive; it blends both elements seamlessly. Another reimagination does away with the whale tail and includes a speed-activated rear spoiler. In terms of creature comforts, the convertible includes a front nose lift system and Apple CarPlay. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Modern Flat-Six Power Comes ExclusivelyPowering the Singer 964 Cabriolet is a 4.0-liter flat-six that delivers 420 horsepower. A first for the tuning firm is the inclusion of variable valve timing, coupled with water-cooled heads and air-cooled cylinders. Its transmission is a 6-speed manual, and the entire powertrain was engineered by the legendary engine engineers at Cosworth. All of this Singer goodness, of course, comes with the benefit of not just bespoke engineering, but also exclusivity. Singer projects don't come with advertised costs, given the bespoke nature of the build, but we can assume the price is high for the very limited 75-unit production run. Rest assured, the (very) lucky few who will get their hands on one are in for one of the most exquisite driving experiences of a lifetime. View the full article

Not All Hypercars Live Under CoversFor years, enthusiasts have criticized exotic car collectors who treat their vehicles as “garage queens” – a term used for cars that are rarely driven and spend most of their lives in storage. To be fair, keeping them tucked away can help preserve their value, especially in the case of icons like the Ferrari 250 GTO, which can command eight-figure prices at auction. At Bugatti Rimac, however, CEO Mate Rimac takes a different approach. In a recent Instagram post, he highlighted his two hypercars – a Bugatti Chiron and a Rimac Nevera – both showing substantial mileage. The Chiron has covered around 176,000 kilometers (109,361 miles), while the Nevera has logged roughly 41,000 kilometers (25,476 miles). We've seen the Bugatti before, a development unit, so the surprise here was the Nevera – an all-electric hypercar. Living With a HypercarGiven the mileage, these hypercars are unlikely to command resale values comparable to lower-mileage examples. There’s also the maintenance factor to consider – the more miles they accumulate, the shorter the service intervals can become, which may inflate long-term ownership costs. But for Mate Rimac, that clearly isn’t the point. He seems intent on using his cars as intended – driving them extensively to better understand their strengths and shortcomings, especially as development progresses on the Bugatti Tourbillon, the successor to the Chiron. The Bugatti Tourbillon features a naturally aspirated V16 paired with three electric motors, delivering a combined output of 1,800 horsepower. Mate Rimac is expected to add one to his own collection – and, if his track record is any indication, he won’t be treating it as a garage queen. As he put it in the social media post: “Yup, we want our hypercars to be used.” @materimac/Instagram A Garage With PersonalityAside from the Bugatti Chiron and Rimac Nevera, the CEO’s garage includes a wide range of machines from different marques, such as the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren and the Porsche Carrera GT – the German automaker's iconic V10 halo car. However, his tastes aren’t limited to exotics. In fact, his favorite car is the BMW 5 Series (E39), which he uses as a daily alongside his Bugatti and Rimac hypercars. Interestingly, though, Mate Rimac isn’t particularly fond of the driving dynamics of the BMW M3 (E30), even as many enthusiasts regard it as one of the greatest M cars ever made. Whatever Mate Rimac chooses to drive extensively next, it’s refreshing to see top executives like him who are genuine car enthusiasts. Another person who comes to mind is Akio Toyoda, chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, who helped launch the Gazoo Racing (GR) brand and took a hands-on role in developing its performance cars. Bugatti View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Mercedes-Benz has filed a new patent that could push in-car comfort into uncharted territory. While massaging seats are already common in the brand’s higher-end models, this latest concept shifts the focus upward – literally. The filing outlines a built-in scalp massage system and tries to masquerade it as a safety feature, saying it combats "muscle strain, fatigue, and headaches, which impair the driving experience." DPMA Register A massaging headrest patent is the latest example of Mercedes pushing the boundaries of opulence alongside developments like the newly unveiled 2027 S-Class and the armored S680 Guard, both of which double down on comfort, technology, and exclusivity. A Headrest That Moves Mercedes-Benz Looking at the patent, which was first spotted by CarBuzz, you'll see the star of the show is a compact mechanical unit integrated directly into the headrest. From this central hub, several small adjustable arms extend outward, each capable of rotating, vibrating, and repositioning to massage different areas of the occupant’s scalp. Cleverly, this system would rely on sensors to detect the driver or passenger’s height and head position, automatically adjusting for the most effective and comfortable experience. An electric motor powers the mechanism, and Mercedes notes it could either function on its own or integrate with the brand’s existing seat massage systems already found in premium models. Built to Fit Into Mercedes-Benz’s Luxury Ecosystem Mercedes-Benz While modern Mercedes-Benz models have cheap, creaky plastics on the inside, they're still tech-filled and premium, especially in higher-end models like the S-Class or Maybach-badged cars. Heated, ventilated, and fully massaging seats are already a major selling point. This headrest concept follows that same philosophy, adding another layer of sensory relaxation. Control would likely follow the footsteps of existing interior tech, with activation through the infotainment system, physical buttons, or even a smartphone. Mercedes also appears to be realigning with buyer expectations. So not only are they trying to stay two steps ahead of the other German luxury giants, BMW and Audi, Merc is also bringing back straight-six engines to smaller AMG models to cater to buyers who prioritize performance. Another Step in the Luxury Arms Race Mercedes-Benz To be frank, there’s no guarantee this massaging headrest will ever make it into a production car anytime soon. Like many other automakers’ patents, it may simply serve to secure the idea before rivals can use it. Regardless, it shows us how far the luxury arms race has progressed. Features once considered excessive are quickly becoming expectations at the top end of the market, and Mercedes-Benz appears determined to stay ahead of the competition – just look at the S-Class's heated seatbelts. If history has taught us anything, flagship innovations like this will trickle their way down the lineup. In 10 years, even the 'more affordable' Mercs could get massaging headrests as an optional extra. View the full article

Steeda’s S650 Mustang Finally Breaks the NA 9-Second BarrierSteeda’s latest YouTube video captures a methodical push toward a milestone many thought would require a boost. After earlier track outings were derailed by a cracked throttle-body housing, a leaking brake caliper, and a steering rack configuration that disabled drag mode and line lock, the team pulled the Gen 4 5.0-liter Coyote to investigate a misfire code and re-engineered several supporting systems. Aerospace front brakes replaced the faulty setup, Soler Performance repaired the damaged throttle bodies, and adjustable motor mounts were fitted to resolve hood-clearance interference under an Anderson Composites carbon-fiber hood. The result at South Georgia Motorsports Park was decisive. Driven to the track and fueled with pump E85, the Silver Bullet 2.0 laid down a 9.96-second pass at 137 mph, backed by a 9.98. That makes it the quickest naturally aspirated Mustang GT on pump gas to date. The car retains its factory-sealed Coyote engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, relying instead on airflow, camshaft upgrades, converter tuning, weight reduction, and chassis optimization. Steeda’s Longstanding Mustang PedigreeNearly three years ago, Steeda partnered with McQueen Racing to continue the legacy of the Bullitt Mustang through limited-production Steve McQueen Edition builds. That program blended heritage cues with modern performance engineering, offering enhanced suspension calibration, braking upgrades, bespoke wheels, and both naturally aspirated and supercharged powertrain options. It was a statement about Steeda’s place in Mustang culture, rooted in history but engineered for contemporary performance. That collaboration underscored Steeda’s dual role in the ecosystem. The company is not merely a parts supplier; it develops fully realized performance packages validated on road courses and drag strips alike. From suspension geometry to drivetrain durability, Steeda’s approach emphasizes integrated vehicle dynamics. The Silver Bullet lineage, from its S550 record holder in this previous video to the current S650 iteration, reflects that same engineering-first philosophy rather than opportunistic horsepower chasing. YouTube: @steedaautosports Naturally Aspirated Still Has HeadroomThe 9.96-second pass validates the latent capability of Ford’s Gen 4 Coyote architecture and reinforces that naturally aspirated performance remains viable in the modern era. With ported heads, Cobra Jet intake hardware, GSC cams, a Circle D converter, and comprehensive suspension tuning, Steeda demonstrated that airflow efficiency and drivetrain optimization can rival more aggressive power adders. Equally significant is how the run was executed: driven to the track, filled with pump E85, and repeated under real-world conditions. That practicality strengthens the claim. For Mustang enthusiasts weighing purity against outright output, Steeda’s Silver Bullet 2.0 proves there is still measurable performance left in the naturally aspirated formula, and the S650’s development curve is far from finished. YouTube: @steedaautosports View the full article

Overview, Specs DetailsThe 2026 Mini Cooper lineup stays true to its formula. It offers compact dimensions, quick steering response, and distinctive styling. Buyers can choose from Hardtop 2 Door and 4 Door models, Convertible variants, and performance-focused John Cooper Works trims. Even the base Cooper delivers agile handling and a premium cabin in a city-friendly package. Cooper S models add stronger acceleration and a sportier character. JCW variants raise performance further with more aggressive tuning. Signature Plus trim and destination charges are included in the advertised MSRPs. Pricing ranges from the low $30,000s to the high $40,000s depending on configuration. For shoppers researching 2026 Mini Cooper lease deals, the lineup provides flexibility in price and performance. MINI View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Lease Offer DetailsMini Financial Services is advertising multiple 39-month lease offers on the 2026 Mini Cooper range. The table below summarizes the key figures. For the most accurate and current Mini Cooper lease offers, visit the brand’s official offer page and confirm eligibility and incentives. Cooper Hardtop 2 Door $359 39 months $3,829 Cooper Hardtop 4 Door $369 39 months $4,035 Cooper S Hardtop 2 Door $369 39 months $4,048 Cooper S Hardtop 4 Door $389 39 months $4,071 JCW Hardtop 2 Door $449 39 months $4,422 Cooper Convertible $439 39 months $4,154 Cooper S Convertible $449 39 months $4,551 JCW Convertible $539 39 months $4,706 All offers are based on 7,500 miles per year, or 24,375 miles over the term. Excess mileage costs $0.25 per mile. The disposition fee at lease end is $395. The acquisition fee is $925. Purchase options range from approximately $19,500 to nearly $30,000 depending on model. If you are comparing Mini Cooper lease price positioning, the Hardtop 2 Door at $359 per month is the entry point. Mini View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Market RivalsThe Mini Cooper competes in a niche but competitive premium small car segment. Mazda MX-5 Miata targets driving purists with rear-wheel-drive balance and lightweight construction, making it the dynamic benchmark among affordable sports cars. Audi A3 takes a more traditional luxury route, offering a refined cabin, advanced driver assistance systems, and a composed ride in sedan form. BMW 228i Gran Coupe rounds out the competitive set with strong turbocharged performance and premium branding in a front-wheel-drive-based layout. Compared with these rivals, Mini Cooper leasing appeals to buyers who prioritize character and agile handling over outright horsepower or rear-drive dynamics. JCW variants narrow the performance gap while retaining the Cooper’s distinctive design and urban-friendly footprint. Copyright 2015 Seyth Miersma / AOL View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Bottom LineFor shoppers evaluating 2026 Mini Cooper lease deals, monthly payments range from $359 to $539 depending on trim and body style. The best value appears in the Hardtop 2 Door and Cooper S Hardtop models. Both keep payments under $390 per month while preserving the car’s engaging driving dynamics. Convertible models command higher payments, especially in JCW form. Even so, Mini Cooper leasing remains a distinctive choice in the premium small car segment. It combines compact size, responsive handling, and strong brand identity in a way few competitors match. Mini Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle. View the full article

A True Car Guy CEOTo whoever told Akio Toyoda that 'Lexus is boring' straight to his face many, many years ago, let's just say that the kin of the world's biggest automaker took it very personally. But instead of throwing a tantrum and sulking in a corner, he led the charge to prove that person — and the world — wrong. He promised himself that Toyota would no longer make boring cars, and looking at its offerings now, Morizo made good on that vow. Granted, they still make NPC cars, but who would've thought that Toyota, of all brands, would have the sportiest lineup among its Japanese peers. With that, here are five Toyota models with Morizo's seal of approval. Toyota Lexus LFAPerhaps the ultimate passion project the brand had ever embarked upon, the LFA was a middle finger to those who kept calling Toyota's luxury brand dull and characterless. It was, quite literally, like no other Lexus made before, or even since. The carbon-tub GT was defined by two things. The first was with its Yamaha-tuned 4.8-liter V10 dubbed the 1LR-GUE. It was specifically made for the LFA, punching out 553 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, and came with a glorious soundtrack. There was also its astronomical price tag of about $375,000, all of which never made it back to Toyota's coffers as each one was sold at a loss. Still, what a project. Bring a Trailer Toyota GT 86If the LFA showcased Toyota's serious sporting intentions, the GT 86 democratized it. Prior to its introduction, Toyota's last rear-wheel drive sport compact was the Corolla GT-S, also known as the Corolla Levin or Sprinter Trueno. It embodied the spirit of its original AE86 with its relatively modest power output and a playful chassis. While not built for outright acceleration times, it was made for making the bits between them fun. And if you take a look at your local track day, you're pretty much guaranteed to see a couple of them in the paddock. Now in its second generation as the GR 86, it continues to be a relatively inexpensive way to get into sports cars. Toyota Toyota Yaris GRMNBefore the GR Yaris, there was the Yaris GRMN. GRMN stood for Gazoo Racing, tuned by the Meister of the Nürburgring, but they don't make badges that long, so GRMN it is. The car was based on the previous-generation Japan/Euro-market Yaris and would later serve as the foundation for the subcompact rocket we know today. Without the Yaris GRMN, there's a chance that the GR Yaris might not have gotten off the ground. It helped that the car was successful in rallying, too, and its wins paved the way for a new hot Yaris. Toyota Toyota GR SupraYes, yes, we've heard all the BMW jokes, but the Supra was a good sports car. The German DNA helped it handle well, and Toyota made the B58 engine as strong and robust as possible. While it wraps up production next month, it can still be considered one of the brand's best sports cars. We don't know if Toyota will build a new generation, but the outgoing model had a good run nonetheless. It gained more power in the following years, along with suspension tweaks to make it sharper, and it saw huge success in Japanese motorsport. Toyota Toyota GR CorollaAmerica was crying out for the GR Yaris, but that car was never meant for the U.S. and Canadian markets. But instead of saying, 'sorry, not for you guys,' Toyota worked around it by building the GR Corolla. In fact, the spicy Corolla was only ever meant for North America, but we're glad it's being offered in most parts of the world now. The creation of the GR Corolla also meant that Toyota finally had a true rival for the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R. Past Corolla-based hot hatches always fell short, but this one more than makes up for all the sins of the past. Toyota The Future Looks PromisingWhile Toyoda-san's tenure as CEO is over, he's still chairman of the brand, so he's still influential within the company's halls. His mandate of 'no more boring cars' is still alive and well, as Toyota is set to roll out more sporting vehicles down the line. Let's also not forget that he was instrumental in making humdrum models drive better, and he was key in making Lexus that little bit more exciting. Thanks to his contributions in the automotive industry, Akio Toyoda has just been inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame. Well deserved, we say. It's amazing how all these performance cars made it to production, given Toyota's generally conservative approach to building cars. Then again, it's hard to say no to the person whose name is on the building. Toyota View the full article

Hands-free driving tech that allows cars to travel on highways with minimal driver input is becoming an ever more common feature in new models, despite ongoing concerns around the safety of such systems, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. Systems like Tesla’s Autopilot, GM’s Super Cruise and Ford’s BlueCruise are now an accepted feature of plenty of new cars, in spite of a spate of sometimes-fatal crashes and misunderstandings around the tech cited by the WSJ. BlueCruise More Popular Than Ever Ford Just a couple of weeks ago, Ford put out a press release reporting that the distance driven in the US in 2025 using its system, BlueCruise, was 264 million miles – an 88% increase over 2024. The system, which regulates speed and provides steering inputs, was launched in 2021 and is now available on a total of nine models across the Ford and Lincoln brands. Clearly, systems like this aren’t going anywhere, despite a series of high-profile accidents that have allegedly taken place with them active. The most recent one cited by the WSJ took place in May last year, when a couple travelling in a Ford F-150 near Toledo, Ohio, had to be extracted from the truck when it hit a guardrail and rolled over – apparently after the driver had applied the brakes but the truck instead sped up. Investigation into the crash is still ongoing, but according to the Journal, passenger Padmalaya Pepalu – whose LinkedIn profile states she works for Ford as an analytical design manager – says the system had failed to disengage. Ford itself, meanwhile, says that its data shows that the system had disengaged, and hadn’t been active for at least 20 seconds before the crash. Claims of Confusion Ford The NHTSA isn’t commenting on the incident yet, as the investigation is still ongoing, but the agency’s administrator, Jonathan Morrison, has reiterated that the systems are only designed to assist the driver and not take over entirely: “The systems available in today’s vehicles are driver assistance systems: you’re driving.” Nevertheless, this isn’t the first time the tech has come under scrutiny. An NHTSA probe into BlueCruise was launched in 2024 following a pair of fatal incidents in which Ford Mustang Mach-Es collided with stationary vehicles on highways during the nighttime. It found that in both cases, the drivers failed to take evasive action, but also that BlueCruise is designed to not slow the car in response to stationary objects at above 62 MPH, to prevent it incorrectly reacting to inanimate objects and causing ‘phantom braking’. The WSJ, meanwhile, says it’s reviewed unredacted documents from 2018 and 2019, during the testing phase of BlueCruise, that identified “common areas of confusion” for those involved, who were using GM’s rival Super Cruise system. However, those same tests showed that drivers quickly adapted to the systems, and Ford says it made numerous changes ahead of making BlueCruise available in 2021. Tech Not Going Anywhere Chevrolet One thing’s clear – despite the safety scrutiny, automated driving tech like BlueCruise is only going to become more prevalent. However, the most important thing for drivers to remember is that these aren’t full self-driving systems, and the tech and regulations that allow for fully unsupervised, automated driving are likely still some way off. Until then, these systems should be treated as providing assistance to human driving rather than taking over it entirely – something that both the NHTSA and the majority of car companies that use the tech have always been very clear on. View the full article

Late last year, Ford CFO Sherry House said of the Blue Oval's Raptor off-road vehicles, "That's a product that I think we're going to be doing a bit more of," and now her boss has indicated that loosened EPA rules could make such a thing easier to achieve. During Ford's Q4 earnings call this week, CEO Jim Farley noted that "pending EPA changes" open the door to satisfying the market's unfulfilled demands for more off-road performance models, adding: "We are doubling down on our icons, making the next-generation F-150 and Super Duty absolutely breakthrough in terms of cost, technology, powertrain choice, and functional features. We're also expanding our off-road and performance lineups across our most important and popular franchises." While the Mustang was not specifically mentioned, it's almost certainly what he was referring to. Allow us to explain. Why a Mustang Raptor Makes Sense Ford Custom Garage The Mustang is undoubtedly one of Ford's "most important and popular" model lines. There are already Raptor versions of the F-150, Bronco, and Ranger, and the Super Duty, Explorer, Expedition, and Maverick are all available in off-road-biased Tremor flavors. After the Escape was canceled, that leaves the Mustang, Mustang Mach-E, and Bronco Sport as potential candidates for off-road treatment, but the latter two are already offered in Rally and Badlands forms, respectively. Thus, the Mustang must be what Farley was getting at. Sure, we've performed a lot of mental gymnastics to arrive at this point, but the thesis is on solid ground. In 2023, Car and Driver reported that the Mustang was rumored to get a Raptor line, and there's physical evidence to support the idea that Ford has wanted to make it happen for a long time. Mustang Is Already Prepared for AWD, Ford Ready to Expand Off-Road Lineup Autoblog The sixth-generation Mustang's front hubs are splined, which indicates that the car was engineered with all-wheel drive in mind, and the current S650 generation is, in many ways, a carryover of that car. C/D's report said that the 5.0-liter Coyote V8 would feed all four wheels through a 10-speed automatic and an electronically controlled center differential, while Fox Live Valve dampers and a two-inch lift would help conquer rugged terrain. If the regular V8 would work with this setup, a supercharged Mustang Raptor R could also follow. Whether this is what Farley was getting at when he posited a 1,000-horsepower off-road supercar or not, it's clear that Ford wants to capitalize on the enthusiasm its customers show for off-road monsters. "We are translating our off-road dominance directly into the profitability of the company," said Farley. "Raptor, and importantly, our off-road performance trims now account for more than 20% of the U.S. sales mix. This gives us massive earning power, and with the pending EPA changes, puts us in a strong position to satisfy those unfulfilled demands in the market." Hopefully, 2026 will be the year that we finally see what Ford's Raptor badge looks like on something that isn't a truck or SUV. View the full article

The Collector Car Market Just Got 20 Years YoungerA new age is redefining the collector market. Hagerty data on the sales of collector cars shows a change in the average production year of the vehicles being sold. In addition to the high-end collector market, there is an increasing number of mid-range collector cars (with six-figure prices) being sold. The average collector car sale date has moved from 1968 to 1989 over the last 12 years. Much of the reason for this change relates to what new cars offer drivers. Modern cars are safer, cleaner, faster, and more fuel-efficient than ever before. But it's all this that has made them too filtered, especially with manual transmissions being near extinct. With less dialogue between the car and driver, it's no wonder enthusiasts are looking to modern classics to fill the gap. The Gap Between Old Cars And Boring CarsModern classics from the 1990s and early 2000s have enough electronic features to make them reliable and user-friendly, while retaining enough mechanical design to allow owners to understand and repair them. A 1996 BMW M3 or a 2004 Porsche 911 GT3 provide drivers with a mechanical relationship between themselves and the machine through steering feedback and a manual transmission, while providing owners with reliability and usability for daily use, road trips, or weekend cruises. They are usable classics, and encourage people to drive them, not store them to keep values intact. Bring a Trailer Younger Buyers Reshape Collecting PrioritiesDemographics have fundamentally altered collector preferences. Millennial collectors did not idolize chrome-laden 1950s cruisers. Their poster cars were the Nissan Skyline and the Honda NSX. Their nostalgia came from PlayStation racing video games and Initial D. These collectors do not want to preserve their cars on lawns; they want to attend Cars and Coffee events. Younger collectors do not consider youngtimer 1990s and early 2000s models to be compromises, they're what they've always dreamt of owning. Elijah Nicholson-Messmer The Last Analog Sweet SpotWith electrification, hybrid systems, turbo-downsizing, and advanced driver assistance technology becoming standard, collectors are viewing the last decade before cars become digitally dependent to be the 1990s and early 2000s. Collectors see these cars as representing a transitional sweet spot between being modern enough to own and operate, and analog enough to be special. Yesterday's used performance car is today's modern classic, and tomorrow's collectible. View the full article

The Genesis GV90, the luxury brand's flagship electric SUV expected to debut toward the end of this year, will be its most luxurious production model ever, borrowing quite a lot from the spectacular Neolun Concept unveiled in March 2024. Previous GV90 prototype sightings have shown that the large battery-electric SUV will feature Rolls-Royce-style coach doors, or at least the range-topping version will. However, reports from earlier this year suggested that the rear-hinged coach doors may not make it to production as Genesis is looking to simplify the design and streamline costs. Well, these fresh spy photos and a video of the Genesis GV90 prove the contrary, as the prototype spotted in a parking garage by South Korea’s ShortsCar appears to feature the coach doors. This particular vehicle is a P1 (Production 1) prototype, which means that it was built with production tooling using the same materials that will be featured on the production model. According to The Korean Car Blog, this GV90 P1 prototype is about 95% production-ready, meaning that it's the real deal. The GV90's Coach Doors Are Here To Stay While the vehicle is fully camouflaged with a black cover, one can observe two cutouts in the cover on the rear doors–one in the traditional position where most people would expect the door handle to be, and the other adjacent to the front door handle. A closer look reveals that the former cutout is just a decoy, with the door handle actually bordering the front door. This proves that the GV90 does indeed feature coach doors for rear passengers, a feature typically found on the most high-end vehicles like the Bentley State Limousine royal car, Rolls-Royce Phantom and Cullinan, or limited-edition models like the 2019-2020 Lincoln Continental Coach Door Edition. You can now add the Genesis GV90 to this exclusive list. The high-polish chrome retractable door handles appear to be motorized and united with those from the front doors for a flush appearance. If the Neolun study is anything to go by, the GV90 should have no B-pillars, so when the doors open, passengers would get easy access to the "open lounge" interior, which should be a sight to behold. Engineering pillarless coach doors is not easy, as the doors have no B-pillar to latch onto, which means that the latching mechanism has to be integrated directly into the floor and roof. There's also the safety aspect to take into account, namely meeting structural integrity and side-impact safety requirements. We would be very impressed if the GV90 featured the pillarless solution, as not even Rolls-Royce managed to pull that off with the Phantom. The Most Sophisticated Genesis Production Vehicle YetBesides the coach doors, another striking aspect of this GV90 prototype is the design of the 24-inch alloy wheels, the largest ever fitted to a Korean production car. These dish style wheels are in production specification and look absolutely stunning with their five-pointed star design, dual-tone scheme and hidden lug nuts. The GV90 full-size luxury SUV will be the most technologically advanced production car ever made by Genesis. Built on the next-generation eM platform, the GV90 prototype spotted in Korea features an 800-volt electrical architecture enabling ultra-fast charging that can go from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes, rear-wheel steering, and a lavish interior featuring “Ondol” radiant heating in the floorboards and three-row seats that can rotate for various interior configurations. The GV90 is expected to offer 300-350 miles of EPA-estimated range and a dual-motor AWD powertrain with over 500 hp. Pricing is expected to start around $100,000 for the base normal version, while the coach-door model could cost twice as much. View the full article

Cooperation in a Crowded MarketThe Honda-Nissan partnership talks have been circulating for quite some time, and with mounting pressure in the U.S. market – particularly from new tariffs and shifting consumer demand – the two Japanese automakers could use each other’s strengths now more than ever. One of the latest proposals reportedly involves Honda supplying hybrid systems to Nissan. According to Nikkei Asia, Nissan’s limited hybrid offerings have contributed to sluggish sales, especially as the recent slowdown in EV demand in the U.S. has pushed buyers back toward hybrids. Honda, by contrast, has a broad range of electrified models, including the Civic Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid, both of which use the brand’s two-motor hybrid system. Honda also has deep electrification experience in motorsports, having supplied hybrid power units in top-tier racing series such as IndyCar and Formula 1. Where Honda Could Step InWhile Nissan does offer its own electrified solution in the form of e-Power, the system differs significantly from Honda’s setup. e-Power operates as a series hybrid, where the gasoline engine does not drive the wheels directly but instead acts as a generator to charge the battery, while an electric motor handles propulsion. The result is an EV-like driving experience with instant torque. However, that architecture may not be ideal for larger vehicles. In heavier models such as the Nissan Frontier, sustained highway driving and towing loads could diminish the efficiency benefits of a series-style system. This is where Honda’s hybrid technology – capable of using its gasoline engine to directly assist with propulsion – could provide a more suitable solution for Nissan’s larger U.S.-market vehicles. For Honda, supplying hybrid systems could also open up an additional revenue stream. At present, Nissan’s U.S. electrification roadmap remains limited. The company plans to introduce a plug-in hybrid version of the Rogue based on the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, but much of its lineup—including the Sentra and Murano—continues to rely solely on internal combustion engines. However, Nissan has an EV entry with the Leaf, though it previously discontinued the Ariya in the U.S. amid import tariff pressures and strong competition from models such as the Tesla Model Y. Honda More Than Just EnginesBeyond hybrid powertrains, Honda and Nissan have reportedly explored broader collaboration areas, including shared in-car software platforms and operating systems to reduce development costs. Discussions have also touched on autonomous driving technologies. Nissan has partnered with U.K.-based Wayve for its driver-assistance ambitions, while Honda has largely pursued in-house development. Given these differing approaches, any concrete announcement in this area may not materialize until closer to the end of the decade. Honda also explored producing pickup trucks at Nissan facilities last summer, with talks reportedly reaching the final stages before logistical mismatches in production equipment and supply chains stalled the plan. Whatever form the partnership ultimately takes, deeper collaboration could prove critical for both companies to improve profitability and remain competitive—particularly against Toyota, which continues to dominate the U.S. market with one of the industry’s most comprehensive hybrid lineups. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Anti-Flex MovePuerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny is firmly in the spotlight – fresh off making history with the first Spanish-language album to win Album of the Year at the Grammys, and days later headlining the halftime show at Super Bowl LX, where automakers like Toyota rolled out ads. Interestingly, however, the artist appears unfazed by the glitz and glamour, even selling his Bugatti Chiron for a 2003 Toyota Corolla. A report from Hola states that Bad Bunny purchased a Bugatti Chiron to make a splash at the 2020 Grammys before later trading it in for a Toyota sedan. The price gap between the two is, of course, substantial, with the Bugatti hypercar typically valued at around $3 to $4 million – a figure that dwarfs the Corolla, which can be found for under $10,000 on the used market. Bad Bunny Status on Four WheelsOne key detail revealed in the report is that Bad Bunny has said he isn’t particularly passionate about cars. He likely bought the Chiron as a statement piece, only to later face the realities and challenges that come with owning one. Whenever he drove the Chiron in the U.S., he was frequently recognized in public. Aside from the vehicle’s rare, high-end status, it’s also powered by a loud 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 engine producing around 1,479 horsepower. He also reportedly cited the insurance costs and tax obligations that come with owning a Chiron. “Here (U.S.), I could not have it for another minute because when I would make my way through the streets, they knew it was me,” he said. Bugatti Peace Over PerformanceOn the other hand, it’s a very different story with the older Corolla. The Toyota may not be as flashy or as fast as the Bugatti, but it comes with far lower upkeep and allows him to move around without drawing constant attention. Moreover, the Corolla is a far more practical daily driver – especially considering the Chiron’s combined fuel economy rating of just 11 mpg. There isn’t really a right or wrong answer as to which car is more worthwhile. It ultimately comes down to personal preference – and, of course, budget. But for someone as globally popular as Bad Bunny, it’s refreshing to see him driving a Toyota and showing fans that sometimes, less is more. Bugatti View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Faith is a fundamental component to who Chandler Smith is as a man, father, husband and racer, so it comes to no surprise that he leaned on his convictions in articulating the range of emotions from missing the Daytona 500 to winning in the Truck Series 24 hours later. “Truthfully, I pray a certain prayer before every race, and most of my prayers are very consistent in the certain sense of ...Keep readingView the full article

Chandler Smith was running sixth entering Turn 3, but he ended the night holding the checkered flag. He didn’t benefit from a wreck, but instead made a dramatic four-wide pass for the lead as the field drag-raced to the finish line. He beat runner-up Gio Ruggiero to the line by 0.044s, and just 0.069s separated the entire top five in the end. John-Hunter Nemechek had the lead exiting the ...Keep readingView the full article

Tony Stewart hasn't competed in NASCAR since 2018, and he hasn't raced in the NASCAR Truck Series in almost twenty years, so there was a lot of hype around him on Friday night as he returned to drive a Ram Truck. Unfortunately, we didn't get to see much of Smoke, as he ran towards the back of the pack through the first two stages while the Kaulig Racing team worked on the handling of his ...Keep readingView the full article

After making a handful of starts in the ARCA Menard's Series race last year, Cleetus McFarland (real name Garrett Mitchell) made the jump up into the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for the 2026 season-opener. Making his Truck Series debut with Niece Motorsports, Mitchell was running inside the top ten early in the event, but he never got the opportunity to do much as his race came to an abrupt ...Keep readingView the full article

Mercedes-Benz and its AMG and Maybach sub-brands are preparing for a massive vehicle onslaught in 2026, and they won't lift off next year either. 16 new vehicles will be unveiled this year, and nearly as many are coming in 2027. The particularly exciting news is that seven of these reveals, from entry-level to range-topping cars, will take place within the next three months, and while some will be EVs, the majority of the automaker's new arrivals will be combustion-powered as Mercedes looks to turn around declining sales figures. Let's take a closer look at what to expect. Mercedes Has Several New Luxury Cars Coming Soon Mercedes-Benz Mercedes was not forthcoming about which models are on their way this year and next, but we've already seen the heavily revised 2027 S-Class break cover, so it's safe to assume that its AMG and Maybach iterations are among the upcoming arrivals. Also at the top of the Mercedes tree, the GLS will be updated this year, followed by the go-faster AMG model and ultra-luxurious Mercedes-Maybach variant. Another fancy SUV on its way is the G-Class Cabriolet, which Mercedes teased at the end of 2025. Related: 2027 Mercedes-AMG S 63 Spied Inside and Out With New V8 and Fresh Looks Elsewhere, we can look forward to AMG's take on the CLE coupe, the electric S-Class, and the electric GLS (currently known as the EQS). Further down the ladder, the first all-electric C-Class is coming, while the combustion-powered model will get a mid-life facelift. In Europe, this will also be available in wagon form, but in the U.S., we'll have to make do with SUVs, such as the refreshed GLC and its fastback Coupe sibling. At the bottom of the luxury ladder, an all-new GLA crossover is coming. We also can't forget that Mercedes teased the Concept AMG GT Track Sport last year, which may herald a new dawn for the hallowed Black Series badge. Sticking with EVs, Mercedes has repeatedly given us glimpses of the production version of the Concept AMG GT XX, which will essentially be the electric replacement for the AMG GT 4-Door. This will also spawn a 1,300-horsepower super SUV, plus a coupe SUV, though the latter is only expected in 2027. More New Mercedes Arrivals in 2027 Mercedes-Benz Again, we must reiterate that Mercedes has not been specific about what is coming and when exactly, but a baby G-Class has been spied undergoing testing with electric power, and the A-Class is set to be reinvented once more, though this may only arrive in 2028. The electric EQE sedan and EQE SUV haven't been successful enough and are expected to face the chopping block this year. With new combustion-powered models outnumbering new EVs, not to mention a move away from four-cylinder engines in AMG products, the Stuttgart-based automaker is doing its utmost to ensure that its customers are happy. Mercedes-Benz View the full article