reporter

When Ford designed the modern Bronco, it digitally scanned the classic 1976 model’s design as a reference point, as the company wanted to capture the original’s enduring appeal for a new generation. But for some, nothing but the original, old-school look will do, and that includes actor Kevin Hart. He purchased a 2024 Bronco, but soon had it redesigned to mirror the look of the Bronco from the 1960s and early 1970s. If classic looks and advanced underpinnings sound like the perfect combination to you, Hart’s retro Bronco is going up for auction at no reserve at Scottsdale 2026. Related: Jeep Slashes Wrangler Prices as Ford’s Bronco Gains Ground The Best Of Two Bronco Generations Custom 2024 Ford Bronco Barrett-Jackson View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Hart worked with builder Vintage Modern to create his custom 2024 Bronco. Finished in Triple Black with matte black trim, it successfully mimics the original’s round headlights, simple horizontal grille, and boxy lines. The front and side orange indicators are virtually identical to the ones on the first-generation model, as are the narrow, vertical taillights. This Bronco has a removable soft-top roof and rides on BFGoodrich all-terrain tires. It has a Roush intake and exhaust and a Fox Factory Racing suspension. While it looks just like the first-generation model that relied on naturally-aspirated six- and eight-cylinder engines—and three-speed manual or automatic transmissions—this Bronco has a far more advanced powertrain. It uses the 2.7-liter EcoBoost turbocharged V6 engine, rated for 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. That’s paired to a ten-speed automatic transmission. Side-impact beams, six airbags, and all the other modern safety equipment lacking on the original Bronco has been retained for this 2024 model. Related: Ford Just Turned Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s Bronco Mods Into a Factory Model All-Black Cabin Doesn’t Go Back In Time Custom 2024 Ford Bronco Barrett-Jackson View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Head inside, and there’s no doubt that this is a modern Bronco. Modern amenities like a digital driver’s display and a center touchscreen are still in place. But Vintage Modern and Hart didn’t leave the interior untouched. It has the same all-black look as the exterior, but there’s hand-stitched leather everywhere you look. The “Vintage” script has also been applied to the center console and steering wheel. As mentioned, this special, one-of-one Bronco is up for sale at no reserve. It has been listed by Barrett-Jackson and will be one of the highlights at the Scottsdale 2026 auction, which runs from 17 to 25 January. Given its celebrity status and old-school looks, Hart’s Bronco could sell for a lot more than the roughly $54k it’ll cost you to get a new Bronco Outer Banks with the same powertrain. View the full article

The Polestar 3 has been named the safest Executive Car of 2025 by Euro NCAP, giving the electric SUV one of the strongest endorsements available in the European market. The award places Polestar’s flagship model at the top of its class for overall safety performance, based on a combination of crash protection and advanced driver assistance systems at a time when buyer confidence matters more than ever. Euro NCAP’s Best in Class awards compare vehicles tested throughout the year and recognize those with the strongest combined results across adult occupant protection, child safety, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assist technology. In that context, the Polestar 3 did not simply meet expectations for a premium EV, it set the benchmark for the executive segment. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Why Euro NCAP Rated It So HighlyThe Polestar 3 earned a five star Euro NCAP rating in earlier testing, with standout scores for adult and child occupant protection. Euro NCAP highlighted how close the vehicle came to a perfect child safety result, pointing to its cabin structure, restraint systems, and collision mitigation technology. Active safety also played a major role, with autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, driver monitoring, and comprehensive crash avoidance systems helped push the Polestar 3 ahead of its rivals. Euro NCAP’s scoring increasingly rewards vehicles that can prevent collisions altogether, not just manage the aftermath, an area where modern EV platforms tend to perform strongly. Safety Meets Market RealityThis recognition arrives at a critical point for Polestar as a business. The company has been working to stabilise its financial footing, including a recent funding boost, while also trying to expand its appeal beyond early adopters. Pricing has also become part of that broader reset, as a recent adjustment saw the Polestar 3 receive a major reduction, reshaping how buyers may view its value proposition. Strong safety credentials help reinforce confidence as the brand asks a wider audience to take notice. The Bigger Picture For PolestarThe Polestar 3’s Euro NCAP award fits into a wider strategy built around safety, design, and technology. That same philosophy is visible across newer models aimed at balancing performance with everyday usability. As electric SUVs become heavier, quicker, and more complex, safety rankings are increasingly influential in purchase decisions. Being named the safest Executive Car of the year gives the Polestar 3 a clear, credible edge in a crowded and competitive segment. View the full article

It takes a special kind of brain to swap a Honda Gold Wing engine into the back of a VW Bug as proof of concept, then take on a Porsche 914 next.View the full article

A Flagship Years in the MakingThe Genesis GV90 has been in the pipeline since 2024, when the Neolun Concept first appeared. That concept made its intentions clear: a big SUV meant to set a new benchmark for Genesis and challenge the top luxury brands. Since then, the Neolun Concept has steadily evolved into what we now know as the GV90, with multiple prototypes spotted testing and an initial launch window pointing to April of this year. Along the way, those prototypes hinted at something extra bold: rear-hinged, Rolls-Royce-style coach doors. Now, it looks like the GV90’s launch will slip to the second half of 2026. The coach doors may not make it to production either. For anyone waiting, it’s another sign that Genesis is still working out the final details on its most ambitious SUV yet. Shorts Car/Instagram Why the DelayAccording to the Korean Car Blog, the delay appears to stem from a mix of internal reviews and technical hurdles. New leadership at Hyundai Motor Group and Genesis is taking a close look at all major projects, and the GV90 is getting extra attention. Flagship models always get the most scrutiny, especially when priorities shift at the top. Technology is another sticking point. Level 3 autonomous driving is still in the works, and rivals are already rolling out hands-free systems. Genesis likely wants to make sure its tech is ready before putting the GV90 on sale, rather than launching with features that aren’t up to par. As for the doors, recent prototypes reportedly no longer show the rear-hinged coach doors seen on earlier test vehicles. The likely reason is a move to simplify the design. Coach doors add cost and complexity, and Genesis may be focusing on core engineering and technology before considering niche features. Expectations Upon the GV90’s ArrivalEven without coach doors, the GV90 is still expected to aim high. Genesis has signaled plans for ultra-luxury, including possible one-off builds and custom versions that recall the exclusivity of brands like Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Leaks have also pointed to limo-style configurations, suggesting the GV90 is intended to be more than just a bigger electric SUV. However, Genesis seems to be taking a careful approach. The GV90 might be delayed, but if Genesis gets these details right, it could become the brand’s most important model yet. View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

While the Ford factory has seemingly abandoned the Shelby badge (at least for the time being) and decided to name its latest supercharged track star the Dark Horse SC, Shelby American is keeping tradition alive with the return of its GT350 for 2026, and for the new model year, the sports car gets two options that will heighten the driving experience. As before, the GT350 can be had with a manual or an automatic transmission (the Dark Horse SC and even the ultra-costly GTD skip the stick option), but now, buyers can also have the GT350 experience without a roof, letting them enjoy to the full either the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 or the whine of a Whipple supercharger. GT350 Returns for Another Year in a New Color Shelby American View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Shelby American brought the GT350 back around this time last year, and according to the company, demand was strong enough to warrant a second model year. But in 2025, the model was only available in fastback form, and this new convertible option should increase appeal. Based on the Ford Mustang GT, with its 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Coyote V8, the GT350 lets buyers either stick with the standard performance level of 480 horsepower or upgrade to 810 hp through the addition of a Whipple supercharger. The latter option makes this the most powerful GT350 ever produced. Shelby American View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Either way, the GT350 gets a rorty cat-back exhaust from Borla, upgraded suspension, and unique styling elements, including Shelby's iconic stripes. Those who like to stand out in a crowd can also now spec Orange Fury paint for 2026. Open the door, and you're greeted by Shelby door sills, Shelby floor mats, and reupholstered Shelby-branded seats. On convertibles, there's also a roll bar spanning the width of the cabin. Final Thoughts and Pricing Shelby American View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Shelby American is not doing anything revolutionary here. The GT350 gets the above upgrades plus lowering springs and updated sway bars, some new 20-inch alloy wheels, a couple of serialized plaques for the dash and engine bay, and, on manual cars, a short-throw shifter with a ball shifter. Some Shelby badges, redesigned grilles, a vented hood, and a ducktail spoiler complete the upgrades, and if these things sound familiar, it's because this is almost exactly the same treatment the company gives its Super Snake. The only major differences are that the Super Snake makes another 20 hp, gets a smattering of carbon fiber, and will be over three times rarer (300 units versus 1,000 for the GT350). The Super Snake also costs a lot more — $175,885, while a supercharged GT350 fastback costs $121,385, and the convertible costs $127,884. Either option is hard to justify when a Whipple supercharger upgrade can be completed in your own garage, giving you 90% of the Shelby experience for 10 grand or less. Sure, that excludes tuning and a louder exhaust, but those aren't going to break the bank. View the full article

Jeep unveiled the Wrangler Moab 392 two months ago, the first of 12 special-edition Wranglers to celebrate the brand’s 85th anniversary. One special Wrangler will be released each month for a year, and we’ve already seen two more since the Moab 392. It’s been a bit of a wait, but the V8-powered Moab 392 is finally available to order in all 50 states, including states that have adopted the California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards. The presence of a V8-powered Wrangler also gives Jeep an advantage over the Bronco Raptor, which doesn’t come with a V8. HEMI-Powered Wrangler Available Everywhere Introducing the new 2026 Jeep® Wrangler Moab 392, a HEMI® V-8-powered homage to Jeep brand's legendary heritage. The vehicle kicks off the Jeep brand's “Operation Airdrop” campaign, ushering in a yearlong celebration of off-road icons. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Jeep likely needed some more time to certify the Wrangler Moab 392 for sale in CARB states, which include California, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington. The star of the Moab 392 package is the 6.4-liter V8, which delivers 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Those outputs are even better than the 418 hp and 440 lb-ft in the Ford Bronco Raptor, which uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. Of course, the Wrangler also sounds brawnier than its impressive rival. “The Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 represents everything our brand stands for, authentic capability and value, legendary performance and confidence-inspiring power,” said Jeep Brand CEO Bob Broderdorf. “Now available in all 50 states, it gives enthusiasts everywhere access to one of the most capable Wranglers we’ve ever built.” Related: Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 Vs. Ford Bronco Raptor V6: The $80,000 Question Trail-Ready Hardware, But The Price Is High Besides its storming V8, the Moab 392 also comes with steel bumpers and standard 35-inch off-road tires. A 4.56 axle ratio, the 2.72:1 Selec-Trac full-time transfer case, and a cold-air intake hood with water separator should make for a formidable off-road toy. Available exclusively as a four-door model, the Moab 392 can also be equipped with a range of roof options, including the Sky One-Touch Power Top and the Sunrider for the Hardtop; the latter allows you to open only the front portion of the roof. Nappa leather seats are standard, as is a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface. Jeep All of this comes at a cost, as the Moab 392 starts at $79,995, excluding a destination charge of $1,995. Both the base price and destination charge are identical to the Raptor R. We managed to add enough options to the Wrangler to raise the price to $88,960, including special paint and a Warn winch for $1,995. If you don’t have $80k or more to drop on a Wrangler, the 85th Anniversary Edition and Whitecap are cheaper special editions that were also revealed over the last two months. View the full article

Automakers and LawsuitsLawsuits are now just part of the job for automakers. Recent examples include Toyota getting dragged into court after a driver said his car was tracking him without his knowledge. Tesla, meanwhile, is back in the legal spotlight over claims that its Model S's door handles break more often than they should. Most of these cases come down to customers who feel their car crossed a line – whether it’s about privacy, safety, or just plain reliability. But there’s one lawsuit in the mix right now that’s a little different. This time, it’s not a driver or owner taking Kia to court – it’s one of its own seasoned technicians. The problem isn’t some flashy tech or a defect that shows up in the showroom. It’s a sharp metal edge tucked away behind the dashboard of a Kia Soul. What Allegedly Went WrongHere’s what happened, according to the presser: An experienced technician was working inside the dashboard of a 2012 Kia Soul when he ran into trouble. A hidden metal edge sliced his wrist deep enough to damage a tendon, sending him in for surgery. The twist? He’d done this same repair plenty of times before, on similar vehicles, without incident. The technician took Kia to court, arguing everything from strict liability to breach of warranty (which we think is a bit odd), failure to warn, and both manufacturing and design defects. Kia pushed back, saying workers’ compensation should cover it and that most of those legal arguments didn’t fit the situation. The court didn’t buy Kia’s argument about workers’ comp blocking the lawsuit. Arkansas law lets injured workers go after third parties like manufacturers. But the judge did toss out the warranty claims, pointing out that those protections are for buyers and their close contacts – not for technicians working on a car years down the line. Where the Case Stands NowThe strict-liability accusation didn’t stick either. The court zeroed in on whether the car was actually unreasonably dangerous for someone with the technician’s background. With decades on the job, a Kia master certification, and experience dealing with sharp edges behind dashboards, the judge decided the risk wasn’t out of line for a pro. At this point, the case isn’t closed yet. Negligence claims – like failure to warn, manufacturing defect, and design defect – are still on the table. The court pointed out some open questions, like whether Kia should have told technicians to wear gloves, or if that bracket was sharper than it should have been, or could have been made safer. View the full article

Drag racing wasn’t something Mellie Snedeker was born into – it was something she discovered, chased, and built a life around. Now 29, she’s carved out a space in the creative side of the sport, using photography, writing, and social media to tell the stories behind some of drag racing’s biggest moments. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Snedeker’s father and brother had an interest in cars, and the family had an old Monte Carlo project car, but drag racing wasn’t in the cards. She shared her family’s interest in cars and checked out local car shows before eventually checking out a test-and-tune session at her local track, then known as Skyview Drags. Through that, she met Mike and Robin Thompson, which opened the door attending the monthly Strange Engineering Outlaw Street Car Shootouts and Yellowbullet Nationals at Cecil County Dragway. “Once I saw what cars could really do at a track like Cecil, I was permanently hooked,” Snedeker says. A friend let Snedeker borrow his Canon 1D camera to shoot his car, sending her down the photography rabbit hole, and interest that reached a new level when she shot the 2018 PRI Show in Indianapolis. It’s where she realized photography could lead to something more, as she notched her first-ever sale and networked with Street Outlaws stars Jeff “AZN” Bonnett and Sean “Farmtruck” Whitley and photographer Lou Renova, who helped her get started with some photography and social media online courses. “I owe so much to those two for giving me the confidence and knowledge to get off the ground.” Today, Snedeker shoots a variety of drag racing events, primarily in the Pro Mod and drag radial niches. “As we all know, Pro Mods are where it’s at,” she says. “Yellowbullet will always have a place in my heart, with that event and track being where I got my start and first fell in love with the sport.” In recent years, Snedeker has also expanded into writing, giving her another storytelling medium and the opportunity to reach new audiences. “Having my first article featured in Drag Illustrated about Skyview Drags was a proud moment,” Snedeker says. “I went out on a limb pitching the idea and asking if I could write it. Seeing it in print was unreal.” Snedeker loves getting a wild action shot, but she also focuses on the humans behind the machines. “The people of this sport are some of the most passionate I have ever met,” she says. “They pour it into their race program, media outlet, however they’re involved, and I try to showcase that passion and commitment as much as possible.” In fact, connecting with the people of drag racing has been one of Snedeker’s biggest accomplishments over the last few years. “I struggle with shyness and I feel I’ve been doing really well overcoming that,” she says. “Walking up to people I may not know very well and having to talk with them or take a photo is honestly one of the most anxiety-inducing parts about my role in racing media, and it’s something I plan to continue to work on.” With encouragement and guidance from a wide support system, Snedeker has grown and evolved in many ways since she first strolled through the gates at a dragstrip. A niche of that support system can be found in the tightknit group of media members that travel with the Red Line Oil PDRA Series. “The entire PDRA media team is unlike any other,” Snedeker says, specifically noting the mentorship she received from David Hilner and Jason Reiss. “We support each other, provide each other content, bounce ideas off each other. We truly build each other up selflessly. That’s hard to find in this highly competitive industry. “My parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles all pooled money together to help me buy my first full-frame camera and laptop so I could dive right in while I was in graduate school to become a school psychologist,” she adds. “They supported me leaving my ‘safe’ job to pursue work in racing full-time.” Snedeker, who hopes to someday participate in the sport as a racer, continues to find new ways to cover the sport. Building on the social media management skills she developed while working for Butner Motorsports and 2023 DI 30 Under 30 honoree Marcus Butner, Snedeker recently took on a new social media position with Dragzine. It’s part of an effort to scale back exposure to the elements that aggravate a medical condition while still contributing to drag racing’s storytelling. “With a diagnosis of dysautonomia, being out on the track in the hot sun for 14-plus hours a day or freezing temps in spring and fall is becoming less tolerable,” she says. “I’ll never stop taking photos, but I do need to start becoming more mindful of what I shoot and how long I’m outside. Writing and social media allow me to still be involved in the sport in a way I love, while taking care of myself and my health.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Mellie Snedeker first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Four snowmobilers were caught in an avalanche in central Washington, killing two. The other members were saved thanks to a Garmin inReach. View the full article

Long Live the 4erWe remember people scratching their heads when BMW spun off the coupe and convertible versions of the 3 Series into the 4 Series. More people scratched when the company then added a four-door version of the said model as the Gran Coupe, not long after. Still, it's been a proven success, and it even outsold its more practical counterpart last year. To say the 4 Series has its fans is an understatement. Not even the polarizing 'beaver teeth' front end was enough to blunt sales. That said, there were some questions about its future given BMW's Neue Klasse direction. But fear not, the car will live to see a third generation. Confirmed by the CompanySpeaking to Autocar, BMW board member Joachim Post is well aware of the model's popularity. See, Post isn't just a board member; he's also one of the engineers overseeing the development of future BMW Neue Klasse models. With that, he assures consumers that we can expect an all-new 4 Series down the line. "The 4 Series is an important car for us. It's more sporty, and BMW is a sporty brand which has a clear heritage also on the performance side. It will play an important role also for the future," said Post. BMW What to ExpectWe can bet that the present body styles will be carried over to the new generation. Post notes that economies of scale will make it easy for those models to be produced despite being niche products. That said, it's the Gran Coupe that does a lot of the lifting in the 4 Series range. More important here are the powertrain choices. There will still be traditional ICE models, albeit with mild hybrid. With that in mind, we could see tweaked versions of the current 2.0-liter and 3.0-liter engines. Plug-in hybrids will also join the range, as well as a full EV model. The EV version will likely use a different platform and be based on the iX3. The best part? The M4 has been largely confirmed, too. While it's not known if it will be split between ICE and EV versions, there's a good chance of that happening. Should that be the case, the electric M4 should benefit from the same software and hardware applied to the upcoming M3 EV. Of course, BMW is keeping its cards close to its chest regarding that matter, but we'll know more once the folks from Munich drop more hints. View the full article

A Reset After a Rough Year for Mercedes EVsMercedes-Benz wrapped up 2025 in the US with a slight 1 percent uptick, but that small gain didn’t come from electric vehicles. The German marque’s EV sales actually dropped by 54 percent compared to 2024, with almost every electric model sliding backward. Only the G-Class with EQ Technology and the E-Sprinter managed to buck the trend and post higher numbers. That decline wasn’t just the market talking. Late in the year, Mercedes pulled most EQ sedans and SUVs from US production, just as federal EV incentives ended. For a while, dealers and buyers simply couldn’t get their hands on an EQE or EQS. Now, the EQ lineup is back in the US, as if nothing happened. Check the Mercedes-Benz website, and you’ll see every EQ model listed again. This isn’t just a website update, either – Mercedes confirmed to The Drive that the lineup is officially available. “Mercedes-Benz USA temporarily adjusted US EQ order availability last summer to align with US market demand. We continuously optimize our production network and use its high flexibility to react to fluctuations and changing market conditions to remain competitive,” a spokesperson told the publication. Mercedes-Benz EQ Models Are BackThe full roster is back: EQE Sedan, EQE SUV, EQS Sedan, and EQS SUV. Prices haven’t moved much since last year. Both the EQE Sedan and EQE SUV start at $64,950, putting them in the mid-tier luxury EV space with the usual Mercedes look and features. The EQS SUV now starts at $89,950, while the EQS Sedan is – well, perhaps more surprisingly – back with a starting price of $104,400. Mercedes also added a more approachable EV: the new CLA with EQ Technology, now on sale from $47,250. It’s smaller, looks more traditional, and promises the kind of range numbers that might attract buyers who skipped the bigger, more expensive EQ models before. With these models back, Mercedes now covers everything from entry-level luxury EVs to full-size flagships, something the brand was missing when the EQ lineup vanished last year. Did They Get an Update?What’s less clear is whether these EQ models bring anything new. Mercedes hasn’t said anything about changes to range, software, or hardware, so for now, these look like the same vehicles as before. If updates are in the pipeline, we expect a proper announcement. One thing that hasn’t changed: the EQE and EQS SUVs are still built in Alabama. That gives Mercedes a leg up as tariffs rise and incentives disappear. It won’t guarantee big sales, but it does help keep prices and supply more stable than some competitors. For now, Mercedes is putting the EQ lineup back in play to see if the market is any more welcoming this time. Sebastian Blanco View the full article

If you or your off-road group is looking to help conservation efforts, trail projects, or need some financing to ensure we all benefit from public land trails, onX Offroad's Trail Revival project is back.View the full article

Austin Prock will take over driving duties from Bob Tasca III in 2026 as Tasca Racing reshapes its Nitro Funny Car program.View the full article

The first facelift for the Volkswagen ID.4 may be critical. Competition is ramping up like never before, with alternatives from Ford, Tesla, and Hyundai undercutting the ID.4 (which used to start at $39,995 but now costs no less than $45,095 before destination). While we don't yet know if VW is planning to reintroduce a more accessible trim for the 2027 model year's facelift, insiders say this won't be just a facelift but such a major update that it's practically a fresh take on the compact electric crossover, which appears to explain the significant styling alterations coming to the car internally nicknamed the "electric Tiguan." It's even rumored to adopt the ID. Tiguan name. Not only will the ID.4 get sharper looks, but with better underpinnings and tech, not to mention a real name, it might be able to justify its higher price point. 2027 ID.4 to Look a Lot Less Electric, a Lot More "VW" SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The new ID.4 will get both a facelift and a Brazilian butt lift, with restyled lighting and more aggressive bumpers at each end of the compact SUV. The headlight clusters will be larger and less rounded, losing soft edges in favor of angular lines. The headlights will remain connected by a full-width LED strip (some EV trends may never die), though it appears each cluster may retain the pulled-back outermost upper element of the current ID.4 and other Vee-dubs. The main one it needs to resemble is the upcoming ID. Polo, which has even sharper cosmetics thanks to Andreas Mindt, but may also get a significantly inflated price. That also means the ID.4's rear end will retain a full-width bar, but look beyond the camouflaging decals, and the new setup is more rectangular, sharper, and less drooping. Naturally, the side profile looks unchanged, but that doesn't mean it's the same car. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article According to our spies, the ID.4 facelift will be built atop a revised MEB+ architecture with modern battery cells, including Lithium Iron Phosphate, which would typically have lower energy density than the ID.4's current liquid-cooled Lithium-Ion, or Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery type, but is more durable, less harmful to the planet, and safer. With newer tech, the updated ID.4 should be more efficient and have a longer range estimate. The powertrains themselves, however, reportedly only need minor updates. Inside, however... 2027 ID.4 Cabin Shows Volkswagen Listens and Learns SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Although we don't have any photos just yet, the next ID.4's interior will be proof that VW listens to its customers, and we mean that in more ways than one. Not only will the cabin finally get physical buttons on the steering wheel and switches in the center console, as customers have long wished for (another reason to laud the ID. Polo), but new software will bring with it a revised IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT. The new software will also allow battery preconditioning (which wasn't possible on pre-2024 ID.4s) and, on a fun note, the ability to select retro gauge clusters, like those from a Mk. 1 Golf. With all these positive revisions, let's hope Volkswagen has the bandwidth for one more, a characteristic that endeared so many fans to the brand in the first place: a price we can all afford. View the full article

Denago unveiled its new RanchHawk UTV, which has an MSRP of $9,999 and is packed with far more features than any of its competitors.View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage 12 – Al Henakiyah to Yanbu Ricky Brabec and Honda HRC’s strategising paid off, as the American pulled off a 3m20s lead on main rival Luciano Benavides, to head into the final stage, with only 105 km of special and a 36 km liason left to run, leaving him with a […] The post Brabec leads after penultimate Dakar Stage as Sander struggles appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

It’s a new name, but familiar roots and power, which is why this may be one of the coolest modern Mustangs ever built. I know that is saying a lot since they recently highlighted the new Mustang GTD, but this one here is like MGD Light was to MGD. This time it’s just with Mustangs, as this one gets many of the unique features of the GTD, including its engine and transmission, along with some sick Carbon Fiber accents. There is a Track Pack option that will be coming, plus a Special Edition Track Pack is apparently on the list as well. Watch the video and you’ll see. The post 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC First Look: A Shelby GT500 in All but Name. Is This Ford’s Best Mustang? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

If you don’t dig old school Minis, then you are NOT my kind of people. These little machines are responsible for so much in motorsports today and are an absolute riot. They weigh 5 lbs, are surprisingly roomy inside considering their tiny size, and even though they don’t make much power it feels like a lot because of their ultra light weight. I’ll never forget the first time I was in one on a track, and would absolutely LOVE to add one to the collection of muscle cars and trucks at my shop. In the video below you’ll see all kinds of fun wheel to wheel action, from Goodwood, as these little beasts get put through their paces. There is in car, out of car, and on car footage, so check it all out below. Video Description: Sure… the V8s make enough thunderous rumblings around Goodwood to shake your fillings out, but we have a big soft spot for the other end of the scale. How can you not love the plucky underdog? Minis are a Goodwood fan favourite and the high revving engine is a big part of that. We followed this ‪@AlexBrundle1‬ prepared beauty at practice and the 82nd Members’ Meeting. So sit back and soak in the buzzing hornet’s nest that is the Mini at Goodwood. The post Minis, Minis, And More Minies: Here Is High Winding, Side by Side, Sideways, Mini Racing Action From Goodwood In England. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The FIM's new FRHPhe-02 racing helmet standard goes live this year, and some of the biggest brands are still missing. View the full article

BYD’s Superior Battery TechBYD is more than just a fast-rising Chinese carmaker anymore. After beating Tesla in 2025, the previously Warren Buffett-backed BYD is now the world’s top EV seller. However, BYD’s real edge comes from its battery manufacturing expertise. Before its automotive era, BYD was already a battery powerhouse – think back to those old Nokia phones with BYD batteries. Today, that technical know-how powers everything from hybrids to full EVs. Legacy automakers have already admitted it: Chinese brands are a force to be reckoned with. Ford, for one, has long admired them for their ability to deliver technology at lower prices. That said, it’s no surprise that Ford is now eyeing BYD as it rethinks its own lineup. BYD Ford and BYD in Talking StageFord and BYD aren’t shaking hands just yet, the Wall Street Journal reports. Talks are still ongoing, with no deal signed. One option on the table: Ford could import BYD batteries for its factories outside the US. That point is important as the focus (for now) is on global models, not US-bound hybrids, mostly because of all the political and regulatory baggage that comes with Chinese battery tech. Both sides are keeping things close to the chest, WSJ said. Ford says it talks to lots of companies, and BYD isn’t saying anything. One source said a deal might not happen at all. But with Ford stepping back from its all-EV gamble, it now needs reliable, affordable batteries as hybrids become a bigger part of its future. This isn’t the first time Ford and BYD have worked together, though. Since 2020, Ford has used BYD batteries in China through its Changan joint venture, and BYD has tried to take that partnership global before. Blue Oval’s Hybrid PushAs you’d expect, a Ford-BYD deal wouldn’t be easy in the context of the former’s home market. US-China trade tensions, high tariffs, and possible bans on some vehicle software all make things tricky. The politics are already heating up, with critics warning about relying on a Chinese rival for key parts. Ford is already getting flak for its Michigan battery plant, which uses CATL tech. Of note, Ford is currently betting big on hybrids as the practical step between gas and full EVs, with the company saying it wants about half its global sales to be electrified by 2030. That even means using hybrid tech to keep the V8 around, instead of letting it disappear. Kristen Brown View the full article

"Oh, you liked breathing? Too bad, it's bad for business," says the Trump Administration's EPA, as the agency rolls back clean air and water standards. View the full article

It’s time for some love for this 1971 F100. It doesn’t need much to make a very big difference in how this thing looks, so in the video below it’s getting some slot mags, new tires, and some paint love. Not new paint, just some love to the paint that is already there. This is work you can do at home with your project as well, so check out what Mortske is doing to one of his favorites. Video Description: I’ve always wanted to try some slotted mag wheels out on my 1971 Ford F100 and it needed smaller tires for clearance anyway so why not throw a new set of shoes on my old Ford!! While we’re at it I’d like to try and bring some shine back to the Calypso Coral Paint so lets try and buff it out. This truck is NOT FOR SALE! As always, thanks for watching! The post Budget Friendly 1971 Bumpside Ford F100 4WD Transformation! DIY Paint Revival And New Wheels And Tires! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Louisiana racer Charles Weckesser will debut this sleek twin-turbo, Coyote-powered GT500 built by Wizard Race Cars.View the full article

As part of its 75th Anniversary celebration in 2026, the NHRA has officially begun unveiling an expanded list of the Top 75 Drivers in the sanctioning body’s history, marking the first major update to its iconic drivers list since the original Top 50 was announced during NHRA’s 50th Anniversary season in 2001. The first five new additions – Tony Schumacher, Robert Hight, Erica Enders, Andrew Hines, and Peter Biondo – were announced this week, setting the tone for a month-long rollout that will continue with five additional drivers revealed each Monday through Feb. 2. A panel of drag racing experts was convened to expand the original Top 50 into a Top 75, honoring excellence across NHRA’s first three-quarters of a century. While the 2001 Top 50 remains a foundational pillar of the list, the 25 new additions recognize standout performers from the last 25 years across NHRA’s Professional and Sportsman categories. Few drivers embody modern NHRA dominance like Tony Schumacher. The eight-time Top Fuel world champion amassed 88 national event wins, including a record 10 victories at the prestigious NHRA U.S. Nationals. His career also became synonymous with the powerhouse Don Schumacher Racing organization founded by his late father, Don, which collected an astonishing 367 NHRA national event wins and 19 championships. “I’m proud as hell to be recognized on this list,” Schumacher said. “I think I have been blessed with having teams that are capable, at any given time, of putting me in record books, and I’m going to be able to look back at this with pride. It’s little moments like this that remind me how much fun the sport is.” Robert Hight’s career followed a less traditional path, but few drivers left a bigger imprint on Funny Car. Rising from clutch specialist to driver within John Force Racing, Hight debuted in 2005 and went on to earn three Funny Car world championships and 65 career wins before retiring at the end of the 2023 season. His longevity and adaptability allowed him to remain competitive across multiple eras of nitro racing. “This is really cool,” Hight said. “I’m a big fan and still love the history of the sport, and to be named alongside some of the historic and current people on this list is very cool. I’m honored.” Erica Enders’ inclusion continues a legacy of trailblazing excellence. After becoming the first woman to reach a Pro Stock final in 2005, Enders steadily evolved into one of the most dominant drivers the class has ever seen. She has earned six world championships and 50 national event wins, highlighted by a remarkable 2022 season that included 10 wins in 13 final rounds. “This is a huge honor,” Enders said. “I/we have dedicated our whole lives to the sport, and to see the success that we’ve had, especially over the last 10 to 12 years at Elite, is nothing short of amazing. I’m honored to be added to the list with some of my childhood heroes, including Bob Glidden…being able to work with a legend like Bob Glidden, and to join him and the greats of all time, is pretty surreal.” Andrew Hines represents the pinnacle of Pro Stock Motorcycle excellence. Carrying on the family legacy established by his father Byron and brother Matt, Hines captured six world championships and became the winningest rider in class history with 56 victories. He also etched his name into history by recording the first six-second elapsed time in Pro Stock Motorcycle. “Starting off, I never thought I’d do something like this,” Hines said. “It all goes back to the day my dad said, ‘This would probably be a good career move for you.’ … I remember NHRA’s 50th anniversary and seeing all the legends. That was cool, and it’s cool to see it come full circle and be here 25 years later.” Peter Biondo’s selection ensures Sportsman racing remains firmly represented among NHRA’s elite. Known as “The Terminator,” Biondo captured seven world championships across multiple categories and recorded 52 national event wins, building one of the most versatile and successful careers in Sportsman history. “I feel privileged and honored,” Biondo said. “I put forth the dedication and commitment, and, luckily, the results followed. I still have the itch, and there’s a good chance you’ll see me out there again soon.” With the Top 75 Drivers rollout officially underway, the original Top 50 from 2001 remains the historical backbone of the list – a who’s who of legends that includes Don Garlits, John Force, Don Prudhomme, Shirley Muldowney, and many more. When the full Top 75 is revealed, fans will also have the opportunity to purchase a commemorative book featuring all 75 drivers, complete with photos and profiles celebrating NHRA’s rich competitive history. Original NHRA Top 50 Drivers List (2001) Joe Amato Brad Anderson Dale Armstrong Pat Austin Raymond Beadle Gary Beck Kenny Bernstein Willie Borsch Art Chrisman Jack Chrisman Jim Dunn Malcolm Durham John Force Don Garlits Bob Glidden Darrell Gwynn Frank Hawley Eddie Hill Tommy Ivo Bill Jenkins Blaine Johnson Warren Johnson Connie Kalitta Chris Karamesines Dick LaHaie Jim Liberman Frank Manzo Ed McCulloch Tom McEwen Billy Meyer George Montgomery Shirley Muldowney John Mulligan Don Nicholson Danny Ongais Don Prudhomme David Rampy Edmond Richardson Scotty Richardson Pete Robinson Dave Schultz Lee Shepherd Gene Snow Ronnie Sox Richard Tharp Mickey Thompson Elmer Trett Terry Vance Ken Veney James Warren This story was originally published on January 15, 2026. The post NHRA Kicks Off Top 75 Drivers Reveal as First Five Additions Are Announced first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Kawasaki Honours Carmichael’s 2001 Title Monster Energy Kawasaki will mark the 25th anniversary of Ricky Carmichael’s 2001 AMA Supercross Championship with a dedicated display at the San Diego round of the 2026 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship on Saturday, January 17 Central to the commemoration will be Carmichael’s original 2001 KX250SR, the machine that carried […] The post Kawasaki marks 25 years since RC’s breakthrough 2001 Supercross title appeared first on MCNews. View the full article