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There were plenty of things to do around his family’s home near Tulsa, Oklahoma, but a teenage Bobby Savedra III chose to spend time working on street cars with his father. They spent hour upon hour in the garage turning wrenches, and as soon as he was 16, Savedra purchased a 2005 Mustang GT and promptly pumped up its power with a Roush supercharger. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. “I have always been good with my hands, and working on cars seemed to come naturally,” says Savedra. “I am motivated to make whatever car I am working on perform better.” As a result, Savedra had one of the most muscular cars at his high school, and appreciated the accolades he received while driving around town. When he turned 18, Savedra’s father ran into Keith Haney, a successful Pro Mod racer who stands out in the Mid-West Drag Racing Series and the Drag Illustrated Winter Series, and asked if he would consider giving his son a position on his championship-winning Pro Mod team. “My father told him that I was a hard worker and would love the opportunity to be part of his racing team, and fortunately, Keith welcomed me aboard,” says Savedra. “I was very happy, and my father told me to buckle up and get ready for the opportunity I was given.” As determined as he could be, Savedra, who was working at a car wash at the time, closely observed what the team did to prepare for a race, what they did at a race, and what they did after a race. He soaked in as much information as he could the first year, and by the second year, he was helping with engine maintenance and tire and wheel maintenance on a full-time basis. “What I remember most about the very first race I went to as a member of Keith’s team is how bone-shaking it felt to be standing on the starting line when his car launched,” says Savedra. “It was awesome, and because of the team I was surrounded by, it was not intimidating or imposing. Instead, it was incredible. Now I have worked my way up to car chief, so I am checking over everything, writing things down, making jet changes, putting pistons together and more. Among the many things I am proud of is our 2023 Mid-West Drag Racing Series Pro Mod championship.” Savedra realizes he’s working on a high-caliber piece. Haney’s Jerry Bickel-built “Black Mamba” Camaro sports a 998-cubic-inch Pat Musi engine, a nitrous system by tuner Brandon Switzer’s Switzer Dynamics, and a Lenco and Ty-Drive and runs 3.61 at 209 mph in the eighth mile. Savedra III, who has developed a close bond with Haney, acknowledges that being part of the team requires a huge amount of commitment and hard work, but his heart is in it. “This is rewarding for me personally, and I am grateful to my family, especially my dad, and to Keith, who believes in me and gave me this opportunity,” says Savedra. “I also owe a lot to Steve Cooks, who taught me so much; Shane Goodnight, who taught me about the engine; Dale Hancock, who taught me how to do the nitrous bottles and about how dangerous they can be; and Brandon Switzer, who taught me how to set up the four-link and suspension and so many other things. I also appreciate that my fiancée, Lakin Shelton, is by my side while I follow my dream.” The ambitious Savedra, who aspires to reach even greater heights, will climb into the driver’s seat of Haney’s Camaro in 2026, as Haney is set to debut a new hot rod. “I will make test passes in the Camaro over winter, just to get the feel of it, and take it from there,” says Savedra, who will get his start in the MWDRS Pro 4.20 class. “That opportunity just makes this whole experience even better.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Bobby Savedra III first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Yes, Jensen is Still AroundSay Jensen to any Brit, and they'll likely picture the Interceptor grand tourer built from the mid-'60s to the mid-'70s. Of course, Jensen's history goes far beyond that, as it was founded in 1922. They built cars on a fairly regular basis until 1976, paused for nearly 25 years, and tried to produce cars again in 2001 with the Jensen S-V8. That said, the S-V8 wasn't exactly a huge hit, and the original company was eventually dissolved in 2011. However, the name is still alive through Jensen International Automotive (JIS), and it has been rescuing and restoring Interceptors since 2011. Now, the company is opening a new chapter with an all-new vehicle. A Modern InterpretationJIS has announced that it will build its first-ever vehicle. Given that the Interceptor is its most popular vehicle, perhaps it's no surprise that it will be a grand tourer inspired by the classic. The company is keen to point out that it will not be a restomod or a continuation series of the '60s model. Instead, the car will be developed from the ground up utilising JIA's in-house engineering. Based on the teaser image, JIS is sticking to its word. The silhouette incorporated the classic long hood, short deck look that has served as the template for many GTs. We can also see some aero elements, namely the front splitter and rear diffuser. Hopefully, the Interceptor's distinctive glass hatch makes an appearance here. Jensen International Automotive What to ExpectJIS says the car will be built on a bespoke aluminum chassis. At the same time, it'll be powered by an in-house V8, a huge departure from the Chevy LS-powered 'recommissioned' Interceptor the company has been building for about 15 years now. There's no mention of electrification here, which is probably for the best if JIS really wants to capture the spirit of the original. JIS calls it a "thoroughly modern take on a luxury British GT," and that it'll "ensure a fully analogue driving experience." Each car will be hand-built, so those interested in one shouldn't expect it to roll out in just a few weeks. It's not that the lines for it will be really long, though, as it will be a limited-run model. They didn't say how much each car will cost, but we're assuming it'll be at least six figures. View the full article

MotoGP is switching to 850cc engines in 2027 in the name of safety, but history suggests lap times won’t stay slow for long. View the full article

A veteran racer and promoter is leading the charge to reopen an abandoned North Carolina 1/8-mile strip in 2026.View the full article

Ford has been making waves lately, winning a NACTOY award for Truck of the Year with the Maverick Lobo compact sport truck and unveiling the Dark Horse SC as the successor to the Shelby GT500. And now there's something coming for those who prefer a more utilitarian vehicle in their lives, with the Blue Oval announcing that a new 2027 Super Duty Carhartt truck will arrive later this year. Details are scant, and only a single teaser image was provided with the announcement, but a badge on the driver's door indicates that the pickup will be powered by the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbodiesel engine. Also, note the wheels, which are inspired by manhole covers. Ford and Carhartt Go Back a Long Way Ford Ford and Carhartt's first factories in Detroit were situated just a mile apart, with the former founded on 16 June 1903, and the latter being born more than a decade earlier, in 1889. A fascinating video published by automotive enthusiast James Pumphrey's Speeed YouTube channel (yes, with three e's) is embedded below and shows how Carhartt's apparel became so famous for its no-nonsense durability and easygoing style, and Ford took note in the early days, with its factory employees being dressed in Carhartt workwear over the past 100 years. Their partnership dates back to the 1920s, and the two collaborated on apparel programs through the 1970s, and now, their partnership has been made official at the 2026 Detroit Auto Show. This collaboration will result in new co-branded merchandise and access to ToolBank USA resources (providing access to tools for community revitalization, trade education, and disaster relief). Ford also intends to donate an F-150 to the ToolBank non-profit, while Carhartt will support Ford dealerships with new workwear programs. Presumably, it won't be long before customers can purchase Carhartt clothing at Ford dealers too. What to Expect From the Carhartt Truck Ford Ford says that the collaboration on the Carhartt truck will bring heritage workwear and automotive craftsmanship together and that "the inspiration for many of the details of the vehicle came after Ford designers visited the Carhartt store [...], gaining insights into different textures, colors, and functionality of Carhartt products." This means we can likely expect something like upholstery inspired by Carhartt's durable fabrics, with muted tones like beige, black, navy blue, and grey. As noted above, Ford also says we can look forward to wheels inspired by the manhole covers outside Carhartt's Detroit store. Expect more teasers with additional info to follow in the coming weeks and months. View the full article

This little guy allegedly gets 75 miles on a single charge, and it even comes with reverse to make every rider's life a little easier.View the full article

The End of the Current RDXThe Acura RDX has quietly been a mainstay in the compact premium SUV segment since 2007. It was one of Acura’s first real pushes into this space, and over the years, it’s become a pillar for the brand. The third-generation RDX, which landed in 2019, brought turbo power back into the mix, sharpened up the handling, and packed in more tech. That run is about to wrap up. Acura has confirmed that the current RDX will roll off the line for the last time later this year. The good news is, it’s actually the setup for a bigger change. The next RDX is already in development, and for the first time, it’s going electric. Instead of dropping the nameplate, Acura is giving it a new job – helping lead the brand into its next era, where electrification and familiar models go hand in hand. What Acura Has Confirmed So FarAcura has confirmed that the next RDX will be a fourth-generation model, and it’s getting a two-motor hybrid-electric system. This is new territory for Acura, but not for Honda. The same hybrid setup is already at work in the CR-V, Accord, and Civic hybrids, where it lets you cruise on electric power at low speeds and blends in the gas engine when you need more punch. It’s a proven system, just now making its way into Acura’s lineup. For Acura, this is a big move – taking Honda’s tried-and-tested hybrid tech and putting it into a premium package. The hybrid RDX is meant to bridge the gap, giving buyers a choice between gas, hybrid, and eventually full electric, all under one familiar badge. Production of the current RDX – built in Ohio right next to the MDX – wraps up later this year as Acura gears up for the changeover. Expect the hybrid RDX to hit showrooms in the next couple of years, keeping a nameplate alive that’s already found homes with about 850,000 North American buyers. The RDX Isn’t the Only Acura Getting AttentionThe RDX isn’t the only Acura getting attention right now. The Integra Type S is set for some exterior and interior tweaks to keep it sharp as rivals step up their game. Acura also has more updates planned for the MDX, with those changes coming in the second half of 2026. Looking at the bigger picture, all these changes fit into Honda’s broader product roadmap. Acura’s first all-electric RSX SUV is also on the way, with a launch set for the second half of 2026, about a year after it was first shown as a prototype in Monterey. Kristin Shaw View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage 11 – Bisha to Al Henakiyah Skyler Howes competes in his eighth Dakar Rally this year, but Stage 11 of the 2026 running marked his first special win, as well as becoming the ninth American rider to win a stage, with fellow Monster Energy Honda HRC rider Adrien Van Beveren making […] The post Howes leads Honda HRC 1-2 at Dakar Stage 11 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

A handful of laws passed last year have come into effect, and two from Utah prohibit lane-splitting and make popping a wheelie a crime. Lane-filtering, however, remains legal. View the full article

Opel’s 50,000-Pixel Headlight GambitOpel is betting big on brains over brute force with the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, unveiled at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show. The headline feature is Adaptive Intelli-Lux HD lighting, a system boasting more than 50,000 individual light elements, 51,200 to be exact, now trickling down from their Grandland SUV, which shares a platform with the Jeep Compass, to Opel’s compact car. On paper, the technology is designed to dramatically improve nighttime visibility while reducing glare, a timely move as modern headlights face growing criticism for being painfully bright. That criticism isn’t unfounded. For years, automakers operated under the assumption that brighter meant safer, an arms race that led to eye-searing LED setups and regulatory blind spots. Studies and reporting have since shown that excessive brightness can be just as dangerous as inadequate lighting. Opel’s pitch is that Intelli-Lux HD isn’t about blasting more light down the road but about putting the right light in the right place, and nowhere else. Stellantis Precision Lighting, Not a Blinding MenaceEach Astra headlamp contains 25,600 individually controllable pixels, allowing the system to shape the beam with surgical precision. Using a forward-facing camera, Intelli-Lux HD detects oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead, then “cuts them out” of the light pattern faster and more accurately than earlier matrix systems. The result is a narrower light tunnel around other road users, while the rest of the roadway stays fully illuminated. Opel claims real safety gains back this up. At 50 mph, obstacles can be detected 30 to 40 yards earlier than with halogen headlights, translating to one or two extra seconds of reaction time. The system also adapts to corners, activates side lighting to avoid dark spots, reduces glare on rain-soaked roads, and even dims traffic signs so reflections don’t blind the driver. It’s a clear attempt to answer concerns raised by regulators and researchers about glare, spectrum, and driver discomfort, without retreating to dimmer lights. Stellantis The Complicated, Regulated Future of Car LightingThere’s no ignoring the complexity that comes with 50,000-pixel headlights. Repairs won’t be cheap, and DIY fixes are basically a thing of the past. How many car guys can replace a light bulb? Apparently, these days, it’s not as easy as we remembered it to be. As headlights evolve into high-resolution digital devices, a cracked lens could mean a four-figure bill rather than a quick swap in the driveway. Still, this complexity may be unavoidable. The industry needs smarter solutions to stay compliant while improving safety. Opel’s Intelli-Lux HD suggests the future isn’t about dimming things down, but about using technology to balance visibility, comfort, and regulation. Stellantis View the full article

Honda recently announced that the TRX90X ATV will be returning for model year 2026, despite difficulties in the niche.View the full article

If you are used to driving modern Formula 1 cars, and someone throws you into a Model T Ford, you are probably scratching your head and wondering who thought to design things so backwards compared to 2026 standards. But it’s fun driving different cars, so I’m sure these guys had fun when they were told they got to drive some special Fords that represent 100 years of advancement. And because anytime two or more people are going the same way in a car, truck, van, bike, or boat, it is automatically a race, we’re sure this one is going to be special. But who will win? Watch and find out. Video Description: Two F1 drivers, 12 cars and over 100 years of motorsports history combine in this racing challenge in partnership with ‪@ford‬. Watch ‪@redbullracing‬ driver ‪@MaxVerstappen1‬ and ‪@VisaCashAppRB‬ driver ‪@ArvidLindbladOfficial‬ face off in a series of on-track challenges in Ford vehicles spanning over 100 years, culminating in a head-to-head, winner-take-all showdown. Join Max, Arvid and Jeremiah Burton from ‪@bigtimebigtimebigtime‬ for this ‪@FordRacing‬ challenge through the ages. Featuring the Ford 1901 Sweepstakes 1924 Model T 1966 GT40 MKII 1970 Mustang Boss 302 1986 RS200 2003 Mustang Cobra 2017 WRC Fiesta 2024 F-150 Lightning SuperTruck 2025 Mustang GT3 2025 Raptor T1+ 2026 Australian Supercar 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC And special guest‪@DanielRicciardo‬ The post What Happens When You Take A Couple Of F1 Drivers And Tell Them They Have To Race 100 Years Of Ford Cars? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Hyundai Thinks Car Doors Are Due for a RethinkAutomakers have spent decades refining engines, suspensions, and software, but Hyundai is aiming at something far more basic: how people actually get in and out of cars. A newly published patent application shows the company experimenting with a double-sliding-door setup that feels less inspired by minivans and more by subways and commuter trains. Published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in January 2026 (you can look it up yourself using patent no. 12523084), the filing outlines a door system where two panels meet in the middle and slide away from each other along a shared rail system. The goal appears simple but ambitious: create a wider, cleaner opening without the packaging compromises of a single large sliding door or the clearance issues of hinged doors. USPTO Subway Logic Applied to Passenger CarsThe most striking thing about Hyundai’s idea is how familiar it feels if you’ve ever boarded a train. Instead of one door moving rearward, the opening splits at the center, with each door sliding outward in opposite directions. That symmetry could make entering and exiting faster and more intuitive, especially in crowded urban environments or curbside pickup scenarios. From the patent illustrations, the mechanism lives largely in the roof structure, using synchronized motors and rails to keep movement smooth and controlled. This approach could reduce door weight per panel while still delivering a wide opening, which is ideal for families, rideshare passengers, or anyone dealing with child seats or bulky cargo. It’s easy to imagine this layout shining in autonomous shuttles or robotaxis, where passenger flow matters more than driver-focused design. USPTO Big Ideas, With the Usual Patent CaveatsOf course, patents are not promises. Automakers routinely file applications to protect ideas long before, or even if, they reach production. Hyundai, like every major manufacturer, uses patents to stake out future possibilities rather than confirm upcoming models. Any trademarks or technologies referenced in the filing are not guaranteed to appear on a showroom vehicle. Still, this application reveals something important about Hyundai’s mindset. As cars evolve into shared, semi-autonomous spaces, the act of getting in and out becomes part of the user experience. Whether or not these double sliding doors ever make it to production, the concept suggests there may be a smarter, more transit-inspired way to think about vehicle access, and Hyundai clearly wants to catch that train of thought. USPTO View the full article

Well, it’s that time of year where the LIWA Hillclimbs are happening. This is some really fun stuff, where folks come from all over to race up an epic dune in Dubai. Located not far from the Liwa Oasis, this is a hot spot for dune racing. In fact, every Friday evening huge crowds show up to have fun, eat, race, and enjoy the sand. They show up in everything from build 2JZ combos to twin turbo LS engines, and even Pro Mod combos. Yep, there are some serious players here, and when you see these purpose-built machines hauling ass up the dunes you’ll understand. The LIWA hillclimb is huge, but the annual New Years LIWA festival is really something special. Below are the first two videos we’re going to share from this epic spot. If you haven’t watched any of this event before, then you have missed out on flips, crankshafts falling out, and fires, along with a lot of flying sand and speed. Watch. The post The LIWA Festival 2026 Hillclimb Was Epic As Always! The Rooster Tails, Stunts, And Carnage Start Right Here! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The 2026 Triumph Bonneville adds refinements to both the T100 and T120 to give riders more of what they want out of both bikes.View the full article

It’s winter, and the last thing anyone wants is to be stuck on the size of the road with a flat tire in freezing conditions. But if you own a 2026 Nissan Rogue—the company's best-selling model in the United States, with almost 220,000 models sold in 2025—your problems may continue even after fitting your spare tire. Nissan has issued a recall for some 2026 Rogues for having spare tires that may not match the size and inflation pressure information on the tire placard. While no incidents have yet been reported, this spare tire mixup could pose an increased risk of a crash. Maintenance Technician Spotted The Problem N Back in October, a maintenance technician noticed that a spare tire assembly was out of sequence during production. Following an internal investigation by Nissan, it was found that a significant number of Rogues were manufactured with the wrong spare tires. The potential number of affected units amounts to 4,655 vehicles. According to a recall report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these vehicles don’t comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, named as Tire Selection and Rims. Nissan says dealers will inspect the spare tire of affected models and replace them if necessary, free of charge. Notification letters will be sent to owners on February 13, 2026, so it’s something to be aware of if you own a 2026 Rogue. According to Car Complaints, the job will take roughly 30 minutes. Related: Darker 2026 Nissan Rogue Revealed As All-New RAV4 Looms Kia SUVs Faced Nearly Identical Issue Last Year Kia Late last year, Kia issued a similar recall for certain Telluride and Sorento models. As with the 2026 Rogue, these SUVs were equipped with incorrectly sized spare tires during production. The automaker violated the same federal safety requirement because of this, but Kia also admitted that the traction control and anti-lock braking systems may be affected by the fitment of the wrong spare tire. The number of Kia SUVs affected was way smaller than Nissan’s recall—only around 45 units. Oddly, Kia ran into the same issue back in 2022. On both occasions, human error was blamed. While this tire recall may not seem as serious as the engine recall for 2021-2024 Nissan Rogues, one can’t underestimate the importance of tire health and specifications, especially during winter driving. Tread depth, correct tire pressure, and the correct tire type are all critical in helping you maintain control of your vehicle in adverse conditions. View the full article

A Type R That Refuses to Bow OutThe Honda Civic Type R is starting to look like it’s running out of road, at least outside the US. Japan has already shown off a Civic Type R Final Edition, and Europe has rolled out its own Ultimate Edition as emissions rules tighten and priorities shift. For a lot of markets, the FL5 is being treated as the last hurrah, making it feel like the Civic Type R is about to bow out. The US, however, is telling a slightly different story. American Honda confirmed that the Civic Type R will carry on into the 2026 model year, albeit with a price increase. Rather than quietly extending production, Honda appears to have more ambitious plans. In its official 2026 US business outlook, the company stated that the Civic Type R is scheduled to receive updates this year, including changes to both exterior and interior styling. That puts the American-market Type R in a unique position: not a farewell model, but a refreshed one. Honda What Honda Is Likely ChangingHonda hasn’t given the full details yet, but the direction is starting to show. A Civic Type R-based HRC Concept was displayed in the recently concluded Tokyo Auto Salon, which could be hiding the update underneath a colorful camouflage and a flurry of body kits. Outside, we expect new front and rear bumpers and updated LED rear turn signals to match the latest Civics. Honda is also expected to use tougher paint, like what’s already on the Civic, which should finally address complaints about paint durability. Inside, the updates are all about making the car easier to live with. Swapping the USB ports from Type-A to Type-C is long overdue, and adding front seat heaters would make the Type R more comfortable all year. Expect a Google-powered Honda Connect 9-inch navigation system, which brings the tech up to date without changing the cabin’s basic layout. Other tweaks, like memory for the auto brake hold, are also expected. Crucially, nothing so far suggests changes to the powertrain or chassis – at least not yet. Honda Other Honda and Acura UpdatesThe Civic Type R update isn’t happening in a vacuum. Honda and Acura are both pushing harder on performance for 2026. The Integra Type S will get its own exterior and interior upgrades this year, making it clear the car is here to stay as the more polished sibling to the Type R. The Acura MDX is also getting more updates later this year, and bigger changes are coming. The next RDX will bring Acura’s first two-motor hybrid system, while the all-electric Acura RSX SUV is set to launch in late 2026. On the Honda side, updates to the Pilot will also happen this year. And just like what’s shown in the Civic RS e:HEV at the Tokyo Auto Salon, America’s Civic Hybrid will adopt the Prelude’s S+ Shift. You might also want to get used to Honda’s new logo, as it will be slapped on Honda EVs and hybrids starting next year. View the full article

Say hello to the Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC. As the name implies, it's a supercharged Dark Horse. Except, it's more than that. Rather than the 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Coyote engine in the regular Dark Horse, this has a 5.2-liter supercharged V8, and although Ford isn't saying so, it's effectively a GT500 for the S650 generation. First of all, the lower side intakes are more than a little reminiscent of the S550 GT500. Secondly, you can have carbon fiber wheels. And quite simply, this is built to be a rabid corner-hunting track monster, just as the last-gen GT500 was. Of course, it needs to avoid stepping on the toes of the GTD, so it doesn't have quite as extreme a suspension setup, nor that car's GT3-derived bodywork. But it's still going to be far more capable than most drivers who get behind the wheel. More Power, Better Track Ability Paul Eisenstein/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Ford hasn't revealed how much more grunt than the 500 horsepower of the regular Dark Horse is generated by the new SC variant, but it's probably less than the 815-hp GTD. Power isn't all that makes a car fast, however. MagneRide dampers with new software and hardware are joined by revised springs with firmer rates, upgraded stabilizer bars, new front and rear knuckles, and modified front control arms. The car also gets a lightweight magnesium strut tower brace and forged suspension links. Ford also touts adjusted rear suspension geometry and an updated steering rack, along with revised tie rods and power-steering gearing, even on the "regular" Dark Horse SC (the red car). Five-stage variable traction control will help even novices get the most out of the car on track, and experts can turn it off completely if they wish. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Optionally, a Track Pack (the blue and black cars in these images) gets specifically calibrated dampers to get the most out of its carbon fiber wheels, which are wrapped in custom Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires measuring 305/30R20 in front and 315/30R20 at the back. Variable traction control is another useful upgrade, as are standard six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembo brakes. With the Track Pack, these brakes are carbon-ceramics, helping contribute to a 150-pound weight saving over the regular Mustang Dark Horse SC. Whether you get the Track Pack or not, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is the only available way to change gears. Unique Bodywork For Mustang Dark Horse SC Ford View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The new front fascia is designed to improve brake cooling, while the new aluminum hood with standard hood pins helps improve both cooling for the engine and aero for the whole car. With the rain tray removed, this setup generates 2.5 times as much downforce, with an opening five times bigger. Out back, a new rear diffuser improves vooling and aero, but with the Track Pack, Ford takes things further by fitting a rear decklid with a ducktail-style setup for even better downforce. This is complemented by a new carbon fiber wing that is meant to minimize rear visbility obsctruction. Altogether, the Track Pack is claimed to generate 620 lbs of downforce at 180 mph. Upgraded Interior Helps the SC Stand Out Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Inside, the GTD's flat-bottomed steering wheel appears with a noon marker and Alcantara and carbon accents. Optionally, Recaro seats come with the Track Pack with Space Gray or Teal accents. This setup also deletes the rear seats for a storage shelf. Other options include a Carbon Fiber Exterior Pack for the fascias and mirror caps, along with three brake color options. With the Track Pack, buyers can also spec a Teal Accent Package for the calipers, badging, and seatbelts. Speaking of, five different seatbelt colors are available, and painted graphics can also be customized on the exterior. For 2026, limited-run Track Pack Special Editions get a black roof, red calipers, unique graphics, and 3D-printed titanium accents derived from the GTD. These special editions will only be available in Shadow Black or Oxford White, with Solar Red accents on the seats. Paul Eisenstein/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Dark Horse SC will be available to order in spring, with deliveries to begin in the summer, but Ford is yet to reveal pricing. For the record, the regular Dark Horse costs from $64,080 for 2026, but we'll bring you more updates as we get them. For now, is this a worthy successor to the GT500, and what do you think of the name? Let us know in the comments below. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Say hello to the Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC. As the name implies, it's a supercharged Dark Horse. Except, it's more than that. Rather than the 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Coyote engine in the regular Dark Horse, this has a 5.2-liter supercharged V8, and although Ford isn't saying so, it's effectively a GT500 for the S650 generation. First of all, the lower side intakes are more than a little reminiscent of the S550 GT500. Secondly, you can have carbon fiber wheels. And quite simply, this is built to be a rabid corner-hunting track monster, just as the last-gen GT500 was. Of course, it needs to avoid stepping on the toes of the GTD, so it doesn't have quite as extreme a suspension setup, nor that car's GT3-derived bodywork. But it's still going to be far more capable than most drivers who get behind the wheel. More Power, Better Track Ability Paul Eisenstein/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Ford hasn't revealed how much more grunt than the 500 horsepower of the regular Dark Horse is generated by the new SC variant, but it's probably less than the 815-hp GTD. Power isn't all that makes a car fast, however. MagneRide dampers with new software and hardware are joined by revised springs with firmer rates, upgraded stabilizer bars, new front and rear knuckles, and modified front control arms. The car also gets a lightweight magnesium strut tower brace and forged suspension links. Ford also touts adjusted rear suspension geometry and an updated steering rack, along with revised tie rods and power-steering gearing, even on the "regular" Dark Horse SC (the red car). Five-stage variable traction control will help even novices get the most out of the car on track, and experts can turn it off completely if they wish. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Optionally, a Track Pack (the blue and black cars in these images) gets specifically calibrated dampers to get the most out of its carbon fiber wheels, which are wrapped in custom Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires measuring 305/30R20 in front and 315/30R20 at the back. Variable traction control is another useful upgrade, as are standard six-piston front and four-piston rear Brembo brakes. With the Track Pack, these brakes are carbon-ceramics, helping contribute to a 150-pound weight saving over the regular Mustang Dark Horse SC. Whether you get the Track Pack or not, a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission is the only available way to change gears. Unique Bodywork For Mustang Dark Horse SC Ford View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The new front fascia is designed to improve brake cooling, while the new aluminum hood with standard hood pins helps improve both cooling for the engine and aero for the whole car. With the rain tray removed, this setup generates 2.5 times as much downforce, with an opening five times bigger. Out back, a new rear diffuser improves vooling and aero, but with the Track Pack, Ford takes things further by fitting a rear decklid with a ducktail-style setup for even better downforce. This is complemented by a new carbon fiber wing that is meant to minimize rear visbility obsctruction. Altogether, the Track Pack is claimed to generate 620 lbs of downforce at 180 mph. Upgraded Interior Helps the SC Stand Out Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Inside, the GTD's flat-bottomed steering wheel appears with a noon marker and Alcantara and carbon accents. Optionally, Recaro seats come with the Track Pack with Space Gray or Teal accents. This setup also deletes the rear seats for a storage shelf. Other options include a Carbon Fiber Exterior Pack for the fascias and mirror caps, along with three brake color options. With the Track Pack, buyers can also spec a Teal Accent Package for the calipers, badging, and seatbelts. Speaking of, five different seatbelt colors are available, and painted graphics can also be customized on the exterior. For 2026, limited-run Track Pack Special Editions get a black roof, red calipers, unique graphics, and 3D-printed titanium accents derived from the GTD. These special editions will only be available in Shadow Black or Oxford White, with Solar Red accents on the seats. Paul Eisenstein/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Dark Horse SC will be available to order in spring, with deliveries to begin in the summer, but Ford is yet to reveal pricing. For the record, the regular Dark Horse costs from $64,080 for 2026, but we'll bring you more updates as we get them. For now, is this a worthy successor to the GT500, and what do you think of the name? Let us know in the comments below. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The BMW iX3 has been getting plenty of praise for its impressive range, next-generation technology, and overall style, and now Volvo wants a piece of its pie with the new EX60 crossover, set to be unveiled next week. While we wait, the Swedish automaker is whetting our appetites with a new teaser that gives us a glimpse of the interior, specifically the central touchscreen. That's not all Volvo has to be proud of with the new electric crossover, but more on that in a moment. First, let's discuss what this new teaser image reveals. A Mix of Analog and Touch Controls for the Intelligent Volvo EX60 Volvo The 2026 EX60's touchscreen interface will be both satisfying to use and potentially a little frustrating. While an illuminated, textured knob is evident, presumably to adjust the media volume, adjusting the climate control system will require a glance away from the road, with these controls on the touchscreen. Fortunately, Volvo has placed these settings at the bottom of the screen, not hidden in a sub-menu, so they'll be relatively easy to find while on the move. And should the worst happen and an EX60 driver is involved in a crash, Volvo's adaptive Genius Safety Belt, which was named one of TIME's Top Inventions of 2025, should keep them safe. Volvo has always had a healthy obsession with safety, and this EX60 should be no different. Related: Volvo Is Bringing Back the Designer Who Defined Its Modern Look In addition, Volvo touts the EX60 as "the most intelligent Volvo to date," thanks to technologies from Google, NVIDIA, and Qualcomm. Volvo says Gemini will allow drivers to operate "everything that matters on the road" hands-free, using natural conversation without specific commands. Volvo's core system, HuginCore, features the "highest level of processing power found in a Volvo car to date," with over 250 trillion operations per second possible, and it constantly reads and assesses the world around the car through a wide array of sensors. This allows the EX60 to learn from past drives, as well as those of other Volvos globally. In the future, Volvo even plans for Gemini to use the EX60's cameras to see the vehicle's surroundings and answer questions about what the occupants see around them. Expect to see that in an over-the-air update before long. Impressive Range Estimates and Great Recharging Times Volvo Volvo's previous teaser for the crossover revealed that the AWD EX60 will be capable of up to 400 miles on a single charge. This means the first car built on the automaker's new 800-volt SPA3 platform will be able to go further than any Volvo that came before, including the bigger and more luxurious EX90 three-row SUV. When the battery (which will have a 10-year warranty, by the way) finally does run out, Volvo says a 400kW fast charger will be able to recoup up to 173 miles of range in only 10 minutes. After providing us with a peek at the cabin, Volvo is all but ready to reveal the new EX60, with a debut date set for a week from now, on January 21. View the full article

Trick Titanium is now under Noonan Inc., bringing improved manufacturing tolerances and advanced coatings to their lineup of racing valves.View the full article

2026 Harley-Davidson Harley-Davidson has detailed a range of updates and additions to its motorcycle line-up for the 2026 model year, spanning its Grand American Touring, Trike, Custom Vehicle Operation (CVO), and Enthusiast Collection ranges. A total of 11 models were confirmed as part of the latest announcement, expanding the brand’s touring and three-wheel offerings while […] The post Harley-Davidson outlines key line-up changes for 2026 model year appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

The New Year Roars to Life: TeamMoto Unveils Its Massive 2026 Kickoff Sale As the Australian summer hits its peak, the nation’s premier motorcycle dealer is clearing the floor, offering riders a rare opportunity to secure world-class machinery at significantly reduced prices. For most, January is a time for resolutions; for the team at TeamMoto, […] The post TeamMoto Unveils Its Massive 2026 Kickoff Sale appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Another year, another Tokyo Auto Salon, and another batch of cool vehicles that we can’t get in the States. Sigh. Even though the chances of these excellent pint-sized rigs from Suzuki ever appearing in the US are slim to none, we couldn’t help but geek out on these builds. Each is themed around an outdoor pursuit, and the concepts do a great job of proving that you don’t need a huge rig to enjoy the great outdoors. Photo by Suzuki Photo by Suzuki The star of the show has to be the five-door Jimny build, which can be a bit deceiving at first. You might think it’s themed around the concept of exploration or possibly a Pacific Island motif with a sand texture, tribal graphics, and other designs worked into the wrap. However, a closer look, specifically at the tag, denotes that it’s a callout to the popular video game franchise Monster Hunter. Regardless if you’ve heard of or even played the game, it’s an attractive design. Up top, a platform rack provides plenty of cargo room, or even a rooftop tent if you need to elevate your sleeping situation while “monster hunting.” Along with the Jimny, Suzuki also displayed a DR-Z4S motorcycle decked out with the same design theme and appropriate accessories. We’ve seen plenty of vans decked out with gear to make it easy enjoy mountain biking, but this has to be the cutest bike-themed van we’ve come across. Three Strider bikes for a trio of tiny shredders are mounted onto the roof rack alongside storage cases and a lightbar. The Every Wagon Wanpaku Rider concept is blacked out and features aftermarket wheels and all-terrain tires. If you wanted to get some small mountain bikers onto a friendly flow trail, we can’t think of a better way to do it. READ MORE: Experience the Ultimate Basecamp at Overland Expo SoCal The next concept, dubbed the Super Carry Work & Play Pro, encompasses everything kei truck fans rave about. Even though it’s small, there’s a ton of room for hauling and organisation for both utility and recreation. You could park this concept in the tightest city lot without an issue, but there’s still room for a kayak on the rooftop, organization or tools mounted to the MOLLE panels, a surprisingly large bed, especially considering the footprint of this cab over truck. Wrapping up Suzuki’s “Life with Adventure” display is a model that might not be familiar outside of certain countries. The Suzuki Xbee, pronounced cross-bee, is a crossover design to mix capability with ease of driving in a package that’s dwarfed by the Jimny. This concept is called the Xbee Nature Photographer and features a roof rack with integrated LEDs, a rear ladder, custom wheels, and a bedliner paint job. The connection between this and nature photography isn’t inherently obvious, but we imagine you can use the ladder to climb onto the roof rack for an elevated point of view. Again, the chances of these pint-sized adventure rigs making it to the US are practically nonexistent, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream. While kei trucks are only street legal in a few states, and you can still track down a decades-old Samurai to scratch the itch for a Jimny, it would be great to have these as an option for a daily driver or minimalist adventure rig. If you’re heading out on an international trip and need a rental car, you should check the offerings because a Jimny makes a fun travel car, and you can hit some dirt roads if the opportunity arises. Just don’t tell the rental company, and neither will we. View the full article

Another year, another Tokyo Auto Salon, and another batch of cool vehicles that we can’t get in the States. Sigh. Even though the chances of these excellent pint-sized rigs from Suzuki ever appearing in the US are slim to none, we couldn’t help but geek out on these builds. Each is themed around an outdoor pursuit, and the concepts do a great job of proving that you don’t need a huge rig to enjoy the great outdoors. Photo by Suzuki Photo by Suzuki The star of the show has to be the five-door Jimny build, which can be a bit deceiving at first. You might think it’s themed around the concept of exploration or possibly a Pacific Island motif with a sand texture, tribal graphics, and other designs worked into the wrap. However, a closer look, specifically at the tag, denotes that it’s a callout to the popular video game franchise Monster Hunter. Regardless if you’ve heard of or even played the game, it’s an attractive design. Up top, a platform rack provides plenty of cargo room, or even a rooftop tent if you need to elevate your sleeping situation while “monster hunting.” Along with the Jimny, Suzuki also displayed a DR-Z4S motorcycle decked out with the same design theme and appropriate accessories. We’ve seen plenty of vans decked out with gear to make it easy enjoy mountain biking, but this has to be the cutest bike-themed van we’ve come across. Three Strider bikes for a trio of tiny shredders are mounted onto the roof rack alongside storage cases and a lightbar. The Every Wagon Wanpaku Rider concept is blacked out and features aftermarket wheels and all-terrain tires. If you wanted to get some small mountain bikers onto a friendly flow trail, we can’t think of a better way to do it. READ MORE: Experience the Ultimate Basecamp at Overland Expo SoCal The next concept, dubbed the Super Carry Work & Play Pro, encompasses everything kei truck fans rave about. Even though it’s small, there’s a ton of room for hauling and organisation for both utility and recreation. You could park this concept in the tightest city lot without an issue, but there’s still room for a kayak on the rooftop, organization or tools mounted to the MOLLE panels, a surprisingly large bed, especially considering the footprint of this cab over truck. Wrapping up Suzuki’s “Life with Adventure” display is a model that might not be familiar outside of certain countries. The Suzuki Xbee, pronounced cross-bee, is a crossover design to mix capability with ease of driving in a package that’s dwarfed by the Jimny. This concept is called the Xbee Nature Photographer and features a roof rack with integrated LEDs, a rear ladder, custom wheels, and a bedliner paint job. The connection between this and nature photography isn’t inherently obvious, but we imagine you can use the ladder to climb onto the roof rack for an elevated point of view. Again, the chances of these pint-sized adventure rigs making it to the US are practically nonexistent, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream. While kei trucks are only street legal in a few states, and you can still track down a decades-old Samurai to scratch the itch for a Jimny, it would be great to have these as an option for a daily driver or minimalist adventure rig. If you’re heading out on an international trip and need a rental car, you should check the offerings because a Jimny makes a fun travel car, and you can hit some dirt roads if the opportunity arises. Just don’t tell the rental company, and neither will we. View the full article