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Jack Roberts may not have grown up in drag racing like so many of the other honorees who appear on the 30 Under 30 List, but he’s become fully entrenched in the sport as a rising star tuner, specifically in the world of small-tire no-prep racing. Roberts and his Squirrel Tuned brand have put drivers like Chase Womack into the winner’s circle at major events in recent months, and if Roberts has his way, he’s just getting started. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Roberts, now 28, first got interested in cars in 2014, but his interest was limited to street cars and roll racing. It wasn’t until 2017 that he took his father’s Jeep SRT down the dragstrip for the first time. When the high-end motor let go in the elder Roberts’ Corvette ZR1, Jack decided he needed to learn how to tune so he could fix or know when something was going wrong. He dove deeper into the drag racing world when he built a Fox body Mustang powered by a stock bottom end 4.8 LS engine. “I pretty much entirely built that car just to learn how to tune on my own stuff,” he says. Roberts admits he was starting from scratch when he got into making high-performance upgrades and tuning cars. “Whenever I first started, I would’ve been nervous to bolt a cold air intake on a car just because I’d never messed with anything like that,” Roberts says. “I was always interested in tuning and thought it was super cool, but it was kind of black magic to me.” Roberts gradually gained knowledge through guidance from mentors like Chris Delgado and classes like High Performance Academy, and of course, through taking his Fox body Mustang to the track and getting real-world experience. At TX2K19 in Houston, Roberts put radials on his Mustang and set the record for a stock bottom end 4.8 in the quarter mile with a 7.91-second pass. That marked a turning point in Roberts’ career. “That was the first time I really did anything like that and proved to anybody that I was able to do something like that,” he says. “That’s where my career started as a tuner. I had done some stuff on friends’ cars before then, but after that is when I actually started advertising and tuning for other people and charging for it.” Most recently, Roberts’ proudest accomplishments have come as the tuner for Chase Womack, who purchased Bobby Ducote’s No Prep Kings car and converted it to run on 28×10.5s. Earlier this summer, Womack won two of the three nights at Outlaw Armageddon in Tulsa driving the “Hitman” ’00 Firebird powered by a ProCharger-boosted Hemi further enhanced with nitrous. “On the third night, we ended up taking a rod out the block in the burnout, so we’ll never know if we were going to be able to clean-sweep it, but we were really happy with that performance,” Roberts says. Along with working with his Squirrel Tuned customers, Roberts takes pride in helping racers who need a nudge in the right direction, paying forward the assistance he received early on. “I’ve been lucky to have a few people that have helped me along the way, and I’ve been lucky to have the opportunity to tune on a lot of cars and make a lot of passes down the track,” Roberts says. “I try to share that knowledge because, ultimately, I think we’re all here just because we’re having fun and enjoying our cars.” As of this writing, Roberts and Womack are preparing for what Roberts describes as their biggest challenge yet: competing in the new True 10.5 class at the three-race Drag Illustrated Winter Series at Bradenton Motorsports Park. With some of the biggest names in small-tire no-prep set to compete, it’s yet another stage for Roberts to show what he’s learned. “I’m looking forward to that and hoping that we can have a good showing there,” Roberts says. “I just want to continue to push the 28×10.5 stuff and do whatever I can – keep working on nice combos like [Womack’s], getting to learn more, improve more, and just push the limits of what’s possible.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Jack Roberts first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Royal Enfield’s new electric mobility brand unveils an electric scrambler motorcycle. It's pretty to look at, but details remain limited.View the full article

The original Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a timeless icon that continues to attract buyers, so it's no wonder that the German automaker expected to build on its success by expanding the range with an all-electric variant. Unfortunately, that hasn't worked out well, but Mercedes sees another potentially profitable avenue of expansion with the crossover in these new spy shots, known as the "Little G." Very little in the way of official information has been provided by Affalterbach, but these spy shots confirm that the mini G-Class is set to be powered by batteries. Will it be exclusively so? That remains to be seen, but perhaps a smaller, rugged-looking electric soft-roader will be more attractive to buyers. Mercedes-Benz's Little G Takes Shape SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The baby G-Class won't simply be a scaled-down G-Wagen, but it will be built on a miniature ladder-frame chassis to preserve the character of the original. Similar suspension and wheels will be fitted, too, but other than that, nearly every part of the compact G will be custom, including the upper body panels and even the door handles. These spy shots seem to confirm these reports; while the overall silhouette is similar to that of the original, the miniature G-Class looks almost like a Chinese knock-off in these spy shots, and the blanked-off front end of the EV exacerbates the effect. Related: Mercedes Ready To Make The V8 G-Class Family Bigger Than Ever Of course, when the camouflage comes off, we expect the baby G to look a lot more premium, but for now, its smaller proportions and overall softer looks have more than a hint of Kia Soul about them. At the rear, at least, the tailgate-mounted spare tire carrier (if it's not a charging cable store as in the midsize G-Class EV) and the rectangular taillights are more typical of the original. Of course, if Mercedes wants to make the smaller G more aggressive, there is a solution... Could the Baby G Get a Real Engine? SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A miniature G-Class has been rumored for many years, and when Mercedes indicated a 2026 release date back in 2023, the appetite for EVs seemed stronger than it does today. Hence, it's entirely plausible that poor sales of the midsize G-Class EV, combined with shifting regulations, could encourage Mercedes to consider reengineering the miniature G with combustion power. In the past couple of years, Mercedes has begun moving away from its poorly received 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid setup, as found in the C63, with straight-six engines and even new V8 power plants being planned and introduced. V8 power, classic styling, and a smaller footprint could be one potent combination, but until we spy a baby G with its front end agape, we'll have to assume that Mercedes is sticking with electric power. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

Malcolm Stewart may be known as a Supercross champion, as well as one of the most badass dirt bikers on the planet, but the man loves to fish. That's why he's starting his own fishing apparel line called Rivell Fishing. View the full article

As of mid-January 2026, a new day has dawned over in Mattighofen. What's going to come next for the mega motorcycle concern?View the full article

A New Generation Without a Sticker ShockMazda is giving the CX-5 its biggest update yet for 2026. There’s a new platform underneath, a cabin that finally feels spacious (at least according to Mazda), and a much more digital interior. Usually, a full reset like this means a big jump in price. This time, Mazda keeps things in check where it counts. The 2026 CX-5 starts at $29,990 for the base 2.5 S, just a small bump over last year. That’s with more standard tech, better safety, and a bigger cabin. Higher trims cost more, though, at least when taken at face value. Here’s how the new pricing stacks up against the 2025 CX-5, based on comparable trims: Trim 2025 Starting MSRP 2026 Starting MSRP CX-5 2.5 S $29,050 $29,990 CX-5 Select $30,380 $31,990 CX-5 Preferred $31,730 $34,250 CX-5 Premium - $36,900 CX-5 Premium Plus $35,680 $38,990 Mazda has trimmed the lineup for the new model year, dropping the Turbo models for now and keeping things straightforward. Entry pricing stays sharp, though keep in mind the $1,495 destination charge isn’t included here. Mazda Sharper Design, Bigger Screens, Calmer CabinThe 2026 CX-5 still looks like a CX-5, but with intentional changes. It sits wider, the wheelbase stretches to 110 inches, and the Kodo design tweaks make it look more solid on the road. New LED lights and a fresh Mazda wordmark on the back clean up the look and bring it up to date. Inside, the changes are more apparent. Mazda claims there’s more room in the back seats and cargo area, fixing one of the old model’s biggest issues. The automaker also stepped up the materials and sound insulation, so the cabin feels quieter and more comfortable. In terms of tech, every CX-5 now uses Mazda Connect with Google Built-in, so you get voice control for navigation, climate, and media. The standard screen is now 12.9 inches, and the top models get a huge 15.6-inch display. Ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and a 360-degree camera system are standard on higher trims. Mazda Familiar Power but Updated DynamicsUnder the hood, the 2026 CX-5 is powered by the same 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is standard across the range. The powertrain setup may be the same, but Mazda claims the CX-5 gets improved driving manners. Revised suspension tuning, updated shock absorbers, new wheel and tire setups, and the latest G-Vectoring Control Plus system are in place, touted to deliver smoother responses and better low-grip traction. Mi-Drive modes for Normal, Sport, and Off-Road are also now available. Mazda says the 2026 CX-5 will begin arriving in dealerships in the coming months. Just like you, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on one to see if Mazda’s best-selling model has changed for the better or worse. Mazda View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage 10 – Bisha (Marathon) to Bisha Adrien Van Beveren has claimed the 2026 Dakar Rally Stage 10 win, with a disastrous crash for Australia’s Daniel Sanders early on seeing him quickly back on the bike, but obviously struggling for the pace that’s come so naturally to him, so far. Thankfully the […] The post Broken collarbone can’t stop Sanders at Dakar Stage 10 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

It's a good time to be a fan of German compact luxury crossovers, as there's a greater abundance of choice than ever before, with more to come in 2026: Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the electric GLC is coming to America to do battle with the EPA-estimate-beating BMW iX3, and each automaker's combustion-powered original will lock horns too. For Mercedes, one of the weapons in its arsenal will be the vehicle in these spy shots, the facelifted GLC 53, AMG's answer to the BMW X3 M50. Captured for the first time in the far north of Sweden, where sunlight is a rare luxury in January, the warmed-up crossover reveals a sporty set of seats to go with its muscular bodywork. 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 Gets Tweaked SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The camouflage only appearing at each end of the vehicle is effectively proof that the development mule is a facelift, not an all-new vehicle, and that means the cosmetic changes are subtle. While it appears that the front bumper may gain minor alterations around the lower side intakes and perhaps even the large upper grille, the main updates concern the headlights, where three-pointed star-shaped LEDs will help define the daytime running light signature, bringing the GLC 53's styling closer to that of its electric sibling. At the rear, there's only a little camouflage on the bumper, with the lower diffuser-style panel and its circular quad exhausts (square tips would indicate the more powerful 63 variant) left uncovered. The same applies to the taillights, but we suspect these may be swapped for units with Mercedes stars once the late 2026/early 2027 predicted debut date arrives. A Refreshed Cabin and a Bigger, Better Engine SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Our spies also got close enough to the mule when it was parked to snap a single good photo of the cabin. While we can't see very much, the fact that the entire dashboard and the steering wheel are covered indicates that there will be considerable updates. All new Merc products are getting the MB.OS operating system with its Google and Microsoft-powered AI and large Hyperscreen displays spanning the cabin. Also, note the very sporty bucket seat and red stitching. Like its BMW nemesis, the 393-horsepower X3 M50, AMG's GLC 53 will reportedly gain a much more interesting turbocharged straight-six, ditching the current C63's widely derided 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, which makes 416 hp in the crossover. The GLC 53 will reportedly combine this with an EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, as in the larger GLE 53 4MATIC+ (which is also about to be facelifted). There, it makes 429 hp, so AMG has room to get bragging rights over the Bimmer once more. Of course, a new X3 M will eventually follow, but most likely, so will a refreshed GLC 63. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Honda’s new E-Clutch on the CB750 Hornet adds convenience while keeping the clutch lever and real rider control intactView the full article

After public outcry due to public land sales being included in the Big, Beautiful Bill, Utah and the feds are quietly and discreetly circumventing public comments on a public land deal in the state.View the full article

With the silhouette of a doorstop, technology borrowed from BMW, Rimac and Hyundai, and production rooted in Saudi Arabia, this strange new electric vehicle prototype is truly one of a kind. Spotted testing in public by Response, the sharp-edged machine comes from Ceer, Saudi Arabia’s first domestic EV brand, founded in 2022 by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. While GM’s largest SUVs are selling like hotcakes in the Middle East, and the UAE still retains its obsession with outrageous gas-powered machines like the Mercedes G63 AMG 6×6, its neighboring country, Saudi Arabia, wants to disrupt the EV space with a "car" that looks unlike anything else on the road. The Retro-Futuristic Designこんな形のクルマ、アリ!? ガルウィングと世界最大のフロントガラス、サウジアラビア発「CEER」が始動https://t.co/DY4y0Vs5M1#新型車 #電気自動車 pic.twitter.com/bboKc3YmHu — レスポンス (@responsejp) January 11, 2026 The first thing you notice about Ceer’s upcoming EV is its shape. The easiest way to describe it is what happens when a DeLorean DMC-12 and a Tesla Cybertruck have a baby. It's wide, aggressive, futuristic, rugged, and has an unmistakable wedge look. Ceer claims the car will feature the world’s largest windshield, and judging by the prototype, that does not seem far-fetched. The glass stretches far back over the cabin and sits almost flat. It looks cool and helps improve airflow – a win-win situation. Then there are the doors, which appear to follow a gullwing or Falcon-style design, much like the Tesla Model X, adding yet another layer of visual theatre to the so-called "car." Built Through Global Partnerships BMW Hyundai Rimac Ceer may be new, but the engineering behind its first EV is not. The brand is a joint venture between Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and Foxconn, with key technology licensed from BMW to speed up development. On the mechanical side, Hyundai Transys is supplying a compact three-in-one electric drive system for certain models, while higher-performance versions are set to benefit from Rimac’s high-output electric drive system. Instead of trying to reinvent everything from scratch, Ceer is stitching together tried and tested components from established players to give itself the upper hand that many young EV brands struggle to achieve. The First Step for Saudi Arabia’s EV Ambitions X @responsejp Saudi Arabia is best known for its oil reserves, but the global shift toward cleaner energy has made change inevitable. Ceer’s unusual prototype offers a glimpse of what that transformation could look like. Ceer will be the country’s first true homegrown EV manufacturer, with plans to build vehicles locally for domestic buyers and select international markets. It also ties into Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to reduce dependence on oil by investing in future-focused sectors like electric mobility. While pricing, range, and performance figures remain under wraps, seeing this wedge-shaped EV testing in the real world suggests that Saudi Arabia is serious about carving out a place in the global electric car conversation – in a way no one has ever done before. View the full article

I’m old enough to remember when Monster Trucks just ran over parked cars, and didn’t fly through the air. Hell, back then nobody would have ever imagined they would be doing backflips and stuff with them. But there were some unique and weird ones back in the day, that’s for sure. In the last 20 years there have been some REALLY strange monster trucks out there so check out the video below and see what you think. Video Description: I looked at the weirdest monster trucks that have ever been created, from Monster Jam trucks, to Bigfoot trucks, and everything in-between. The post Are These The Weirdest Monster Trucks Ever Produced: Taking A Look At Monster Jam Trucks, Big Foot Trucks, And More! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We’ve known for a few days now that Ford has something big planned for the Mustang at the Detroit Auto Show this month. Two new models from the Ford Racing department are expected, with rumors suggesting the Mustang Cobra or Boss nameplates would be making a comeback. Well, we now know what at least one of these models will be, thanks to a new teaser on the official Ford Mustang Instagram page. A more extreme, track-capable Dark Horse will be revealed tomorrow, and the spine-tingling sound bite shared by Ford suggests it’ll be supercharged. An Unmistakable Soundtrack f Other than the exclusive Mustang GTD, the last supercharged Ford Mustang you could buy from the factory was the Shelby GT500. But the current king of the Mustang lineup is the Dark Horse, which uses the brilliant 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Coyote V8 with 500 horsepower. It’s already available with a Handling Package, which adds revised chassis tuning, a performance rear spoiler, and adjustable strut top mounts, among other things. But the new Dark Horse we’ll set eyes on tomorrow, January 15, sounds like a different beast altogether. Ford The supercharger whine is obvious (you can listen to it here), and Ford calls this “the most advanced, powerful, and track-capable Dark Horse ever.” This suggests not only a lot more power, but a series of enhancements to improve the Mustang’s track credentials. Ford already sells a supercharger kit for the Mustang GT and Dark Horse, which boosts outputs to 810 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque. Those are the potential figures that are achievable in this track-ready Dark Horse. Ford also has the 5.2-liter Predator supercharged V8 in the Mustang GTD, another possible powertrain choice that can also make over 800 hp. Why Not Call It The Cobra? Ford The new supercharged Mustang would’ve been the ideal opportunity to bring back the Cobra name. Between 1993 and 2004, the supercharged Ford SVT Mustang Cobra from the SN95 generation sat above the GT and Mach 1, until the GT500 supplanted it. This teaser suggests the Cobra name won’t be used, and the new Dark Horse may very well take the place of the previous Shelby GT500, given the performance potential of a supercharged V8. The teaser gives nothing else away, but we can expect the more powerful Dark Horse to be a pricey proposition. The normal Dark Horse already starts at $64,080, while adding the Handling Package adds another $5,495. If you want the supercharger kit, that’s another $10,500. All things considered, this new Dark Horse will likely cost in the region of $80,000 or more. All will be revealed tomorrow. View the full article

IMSA’s Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona is coming up in just over a week, with the Roar Before the 24 coming this weekend. If you aren’t familiar with everything that goes on during the month of January at Daytona, you need to start paying attention. The original Rolex 24 at Daytona is the big show, but the Roar is the last chance for teams to get testing done prior to the big race. It is a lot going on and the racing is great. IMSA is prepping for the race as we speak, and that means some fun content to get us all excited. In the video below, you’ll get a feel for the action at the Rolex 24 because IMSA has put together their favorite finishes of all time. Check it out and let us know what you think, and which one is your favorite. The post The Best Rolex 24 at Daytona Finishes of All Time! IMSA Shares Their Favorite Finishes Of All Time! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Larry Chen has some fun rides, but his 240z is “the one”. What I mean by that is that this is his forever car, the one that will never get sold and sent on its way to a new home. Larry has had this car since his 21st birthday and they have been through a lot together. In this video he’s going to explain the history, walk us through some new mods and updates, along with plans for the future. All this was going down on the car to prep it for the Japanese Classic Car Show in SoCal and also the SEMA Show. The Japanese Classic Car Show is awesome, and I loved going to it when I lived in SoCal, and I’m sure this thing made a splash there. Check it out. The post Larry Chen’s 240Z Final Gets Much Needed Suspension and Interior Upgrades, Plus Other Cool Stuff! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Randy Shipp has a thing for classic Chevrolets. This Corvette is one clean ride that Shipp pilots in Super Street. View the full article

Brad McBride has dialed up the looks and performance of his 1963 VW Type 3 Fastback. McBride is ready for PDRA Super Street in 2026.View the full article

The Locked-In Drag Racing Series kicked off its 2026 campaign January 10–11 with a two-day season opener at Famoso Dragstrip, where sunshine and cool high-50-degree temperatures delivered classic winter racing conditions in California’s Central Valley. The stable air and well-prepped surface allowed racers to lean on their combinations as qualifying and eliminations unfolded across a wide range of bracket, index, and heads-up categories. Local racers made an immediate impact in the bracket ranks, as Bakersfield’s Jan Vanderpool claimed the Bracket 1 No Box victory, while Dave Rudd secured the win in Bracket 2 Box, using consistency and sharp reaction times to stay ahead of the competition. Heads-up racing took center stage as the weekend progressed, highlighted by a competitive Outlaw Small Tire field. Rich Hoyle emerged on top after a string of strong passes on a surface prepped by track specialist Jim Black, who delivered a notably sticky racing lane that rewarded aggressive setups and confident driving. The high-traction conditions played a key role throughout eliminations, particularly in the power-heavy categories. In additional heads-up action, Ron McCoy captured the win in N/A 10.5, while Bakersfield’s Danny Crownover added a hometown victory in the Truck class. Matt Marron rounded out the steel-bodied categories with a win in Real Steel, continuing the theme of tight racing and clean finishes. Index competition proved just as competitive, with Xavier Mendoza taking top honors in 5.35 Index, Dan Jordan earning the 5.80 Index victory, and Matt Flud of Shafter claiming the 6.50 Index win. The weekend wrapped up with Mike Consolo scoring the victory in Modern Muscle, closing out a successful opening round for the series. With Round 1 complete, the Locked-In Drag Racing Series established early momentum at Famoso Dragstrip, setting the tone for a season built around strong car counts, diverse classes, and a racing surface capable of supporting everything from bracket cars to serious heads-up contenders. This story was originally published on January 13, 2026. The post PHOTO GALLERY: Locked-In Drag Racing Series Launches 2026 With Strong Showing at Famoso first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Heading into the 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service at Bradenton Motorsports Park, few – if any – drivers had more hype surrounding them than Jimmy Taylor. In the months leading up to the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, the first race of the DI Winter Series, Taylor and tuner Carl Stevens set social media ablaze when they powered Taylor’s twin-turbo Xtreme Racing Engines ’69 Camaro to a record-breaking 3.387-second pass at 240.29 mph during private testing at Maryland International Raceway. Never short on confidence, Taylor was also one of the few drivers willing to discuss going for both the Elite Motorsports Million ( $1,000,000 for winning all three Winter Series events) and Jerry Bickel Clean Sweep Challenge (a brand-new Pro Mod chassis for qualifying No. 1 at all three races), two of the toughest feats in all of drag racing. Unfortunately, he fell just short of each goal, qualifying No. 2 with a 3.567 at 223.36 mph and falling in round two to event winner Jason Harris. Taylor currently sits ninth in points heading into the second race of the Winter Series, the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission January 23-25. While there were a lot of positives to take from the Snowbirds, Taylor admitted it fell short of his expectations. “It was a good weekend, but we were definitely disappointed,” Taylor said. “I mean, I wasn’t happy with it at all. We’ve been doing a lot of work on the car – we’ve redone a bunch of stuff on it to make it a little faster and hook up a little bit better. Our biggest thing was we just didn’t have enough data for our new converter, so Neal Chance has done some stuff for us to help it lock up softer. I think we’ll be ready to go next weekend.” Fans may be seeing the beginning of a budding rivalry between Taylor and Harris as well, although Taylor is quick to mention the two are friends. Not only did Harris knock out Taylor in eliminations, he also took the No. 1 qualifying spot with a 3.560 – just seven thousandths of a second ahead of Taylor. With Harris now the only driver eligible for both the Elite Motorsports Million and Jerry Bickel Clean Sweep, Taylor would love nothing more than to foil those plans. “Me and Jason are friends, don’t get me wrong,” said Taylor. “I’d love to see him win it if he could, but I’m definitely not going to lay up to give him an opportunity. We’re gonna bring everything we’ve got – we’re gonna shoot for number one, we’re gonna shoot for the win, and I’m going to do everything I can to take it from him.” It’s not just Harris that Taylor needs to look out for, however. The Snowbirds featured an incredible 80 cars on the qualifying sheet, with numerous big-name drivers not even making the show. Competition for the U.S. Street Nationals plans to be just as tough, but Taylor has someone in his corner that gives him a ton of confidence – Carl Stevens. “He’s the man, no doubt,” Taylor said. “There’s not a better tuner out there than Carl, especially when you get him on a turbo car. He’s done a bunch of stuff to the car to make it more consistent. All the key elements are there for us to put this car in the winner’s circle. We’ve just got to execute and do it. I feel like we’re as confident as anybody is to win it, but when you’re up against 80 or 100 of the baddest guys in the world, you can’t make any mistakes. Everything has to work and be executed perfectly, or you’re going on the trailer.” With that mindset, Taylor is coming to Bradenton with a ton of confidence. He knows he has a record-setting car and an elite tuner – and his lofty goals for the event reflect that confidence. “We’ve been getting the car ready and we’re bringing our A-game,” said Taylor. “I feel pretty good about it, I really do. I’ll tell you what – anything other than a top two finish and a number one qualifier, I’m going to be heartbroken. That’s our goal. That’s what we’re striving for.” This story was originally published on January 13, 2026. The post Back From The Drawing Board, Jimmy Taylor Is Ready For Upcoming U.S. Street Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Dubbin Motorsports will return to NHRA Top Alcohol Dragster competition in 2026 with driver Kirk Wolf, marking his fourth season in the team’s A/Fuel Dragster. The Minnesota-based team will run nine NHRA Lucas Oil Series National Events and one Lucas Oil Series Regional Event, with the possibility of adding additional regional races depending on championship points standings. The team continues its approach of incorporating new venues into the schedule to broaden competitive experience across multiple track environments. Team owner Dean Dubbin emphasized the value of expanding the schedule. “We make it a point every season to add a new venue to our schedule to keep things new and exciting. For 2026, we chose to add the Great Lakes Nationals to the schedule. We hear good things about US 131 from people who have raced there for many years.” Dubbin added that the team’s multi-track approach has strengthened the team’s overall performance. “I like racing at different tracks, the time and effort we put into going to the different tracks has made us better. There is no substitute for experience in this sport and you have to learn to adapt quickly to different conditions. We pride ourselves in being able to race, compete, and win at any track.” Wolf enters the 2026 season following a #12 finish in Lucas Oil Series national points, despite running three races short of a full points slate. Now based in Danville, Indiana, he expressed confidence in the program’s direction. “I am excited about this year. I think we have all the bugs worked out that caused problems at inopportune times for us last year. Few teams in this class have the kind of continuity and chemistry we have. Dean has put together a great program, and I have a lot of confidence in the performance of this car and everyone around it.” Clay and Chase Copeland will return to lead tuning duties, with longtime crew member, clutch specialist, and Car Chief, Trevor Jelinski, continuing to expand his involvement in the tuning program. Dubbin noted the team’s internal development. “One thing I like about our program is the development of everyone involved. We have been together as a team for many years now. Everyone here is capable of stepping into multiple roles, and the team doesn’t miss a beat.” The Dubbin team will open its 2026 campaign at the NHRA season‑opening AMALIE Motor Oil Gatornationals, March 5–8 at Gainesville Raceway. Racer.Media Creative This story was originally published on January 13, 2026. The post Kirk Wolf Back With Dubbin Motorsports For Nine-Race National Event Schedule first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Moto News Weekly Wrap January 13, 2026 What’s New: Dakar Rally 2026 Update – After Stage Nine Luke Clout tops Sunday at ADAC Supercross Dortmund 2026 Monster Energy SMX Playoffs and Final location reveal Jack Holder reigns supreme at Mildura and Gillman Keynan Rew tops Oceania Speedway Championship 2026 AMA Supercross Round One Wrap 2026 […] The post Moto News Weekly | Speedway | Dakar | SX | SMX appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

The Tables Have TurnedIf we told you that BMW M would draw parallels with Hyundai N five years ago, you'd probably laugh at the idea. But here we are now with the upcoming electric M3 that will apparently come with simulated gearshifts...like the Ioniq 5 N. Not to worry, a gas-fed M3 will also be made, but a feature first seen on a Hyundai making its way to a BMW shows how far the Koreans have come in a relatively short time. Of course, it's no secret that Hyundai poached Albert Biermann from BMW M. He's been retired for quite some time now, but it appears his influence is making an impact over there. BMW Simulated Gearshifts Alone Do Not Make an M CarWhile the simulated gearshifts are a welcome bit of news, that alone doesn't turn any EV into a performance car. Thankfully, BMW does say its electric M3 will have a couple more tricks up its sleeve. For instance, each wheel has a compact electric motor, so it's packing a quad-motor system. BMW adds that electric M cars will benefit from this kind of arrangement, along with an M-specific control software of the Heart of Joy system. Heart of Joy was first applied to the all-new iX3, and it could be a potential game changer when it comes to EV driving dynamics. BMW Of Course, You Can Make it SlideWhile it does come with a clever all-wheel drive system (and that's oversimplifying it), the M3 EV can be put in 2WD mode for some sideways action. Okay, it's not the first BMW M product to get that, but it's nice to know that it'll be applied here too. Switching to 2WD mode also increases range, the company says. Other highlights? Well, BMW isn't mentioning any power figures yet, but at least 500 horsepower and truckloads of torque. While we don't know that yet, what is confirmed is a large battery pack with over 100 kWh. It'll also have the same tech applied in the Neue Klasse iX3 to give it a decent amount of range. Granted, we're not expecting the M3 EV to have the same range as the practical family crossover, but hopefully it's more than enough to enjoy a track day and make it home without plugging in. BMW BMW View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

He’s won a slew of trophies and championships, but Vaughn Gittin Jr. says his “dream” has only now come true. He’s teamed up with Ford to roll out a pair of factory-made performance machines designed to his specifications. The first, the Mustang RTR, was introduced last year. The next in line makes its debut this week and the 2027 Ford Bronco RTR is “unapologetically cool,” Gittin boasted during a sneak preview at the automaker’s new world headquarters. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Slotting in-between the familiar Badlands and Raptor packages, the RTR delivers a long list of features customers typically ask for when they take their own Broncos to Gittin’s RTR Vehicles for customization. The good news, he told Autoblog is that the price tag will be “massively” less, and the package rolling off Ford’s own assembly line will get a full factory warranty. Hitching Their Horses TogetherThe Formula Drift champion is quick to point out that he’s only raced Fords on track and out on the sands. His RTR Vehicles has plenty of work modifying Broncos and Mustangs. But the obvious next step was to work directly with the Detroit automaker to deliver factory-made special editions. In the case of the latest package, “Our mission was to develop the hottest performance version of Bronco ever,” said Ed Krenz, Bronco’s chief program engineer. What they’ve come up with, he adds, “checks all the boxes” when it comes to the sort of features RTR’s customized Bronco buyers typically choose. That said, the Bronco RTR is designed to allow for more add-ons. There’s a bank of switches, already wired up, for example, that can be used to toggle accessories like an off-road light-bar. SasquatchThere will be two versions of the Bronco RTR, both getting a number of easy-to-spot updates. For one thing, they’ll feature a wider stance and higher ground clearance. Add distinctive Hyper Lime accents on the 17-inch beadlock-capable RTR Evo 6 wheels and other design details. And there will be topographical map appliques of Johnson Valley on the SUV’s hood and sides. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article All versions of the RTR feature that high ground clearance suspension, and the trim’s “base” package gets 33-inch rugged-terrain tires – the first time that combination has been offered on a factory-built Bronco. This is the first time for this combination on a factory-built Bronco. For those who want to step things up, there’s an optional Sasquatch package which gets 35-inch Goodyear rugged-terrain tires as well as the HOSS 3.0 system with Fox internal bypass shocks which, until now, were only available on the Bronco Badlands. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Dominating the DirtWhichever package you opt for, “Bronco RTR is built to dominate the dirt, whether you’re in Johnson Valley or on a backwoods trail,” said Gittin. “We gave it the suspension tech to handle the hits, but we also sweat the details that matter to drivers. We reinforced the steering, added anti-lag turbo tech and share high-power cooling fan hardware from the Bronco Raptor to help keep Bronco RTR cool during extended trail time and playing in sand.” Related: Ford Bronco Celebrates 60 Years With A Rugged Retro Makeover One other feature being introduced on Bronco RTR could give serious drivers a competitive edge. A potential drawback of relying on turbochargers is the lag that you face when first slamming on the throttle. The new Baja Mode is designed to limit that problem. Like the SUV’s other Terrain Mode settings, switching to Baja revises a variety of vehicle settings, such as transmission shifts and steering. It also changes engine software controls so that the turbo boost for the 2.3-liter inline-four engine stays high for up to about five seconds, even when a driver briefly lifts their foot off the throttle, say, when entering a tight corner or when facing particularly rough track conditions. “Access to power is critical” when off-road racing, said Krenz. The Baja Mode fix keeps things “at the limits when you need it,” quickly added Gittin. Related: Ford Says More Raptor Models Are on the Way Living the DreamGittins is a self-described “professional fun-haver,” and he says the partnership with Ford is a dream come true. Now that he’s got his fingerprints all over the new factory Mustang and Bronco models, might other RTR packages follow? “Clearly that is a dream of mine (and there could be) an opportunity to do more youthful models throughout the Ford line,” Gittin said – though we’ll have to wait to see what might follow. For now, we’ll have to wait until closer to when the Bronco reaches showroom next autumn to find out hard details, such as horsepower, torque, as well as ground clearance and pricing. The good news is that the Bronco RTR will be “massively” cheaper than what it previously would have cost to have RTR Vehicles customize the same package. That said, it won’t be cheap. Expect the 2027 SUV to land somewhere between the Ford Bronco Badlands package, which starts at $51,580, and the $81,990 Raptor. View the 1 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Long-Teased Performance FlagshipAfter more than a year of teasers and concepts, Genesis has finally pulled the wraps off the GV60 Magma. This is the first production model under the new Magma performance line, and it’s not just about chasing lap times. The GV60 Magma is aimed at buyers who want outright performance, but also care about comfort and refinement. There’s only one trim, and it’s fully loaded. The GV60 Magma sits at the top of the GV60 lineup, showing where Genesis wants to take performance in the years ahead. It shares its hardware with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, but the approach is different. While Hyundai goes for all-out aggression, Genesis keeps things more polished and comfort-focused. The result is a calmer, more composed kind of speed. Genesis Power Combined with PoshUnder the skin, the GV60 Magma uses the same dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup as the Ioniq 5 N, putting out 601 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque. Hit Boost Mode, and you get a short burst up to 641 hp and 583 lb-ft for about 15 seconds. Genesis says it’ll do 0 to 124 mph in around 10.9 seconds, with a top speed of 164 mph. That makes it the most powerful electric Genesis so far. Power comes from an 84 kWh battery, good for an estimated 215 miles of range per charge on Korean test cycles. Genesis put a lot of effort into thermal management, beefing up motor cooling and battery conditioning so the Magma can keep performing even when pushed hard, again and again. And yes, simulated gear shifts and sounds are part of the package, just like the Ioniq 5 N. Apart from the model-exclusive Magma Orange paint, the GV60 Magma gets other visual enhancements over the standard GV60. The body is about 2 inches wider and sits just under an inch lower, and it rides on 21-inch wheels with wide summer tires. Aerodynamic tweaks like real air breathers, a wing-style rear spoiler, and Magma-specific details give it presence, but nothing feels over-the-top. Inside, the GV60 Magma goes all-in on sport-luxury, albeit Genesis failed to provide images in the release (images below are from the prototype). There’s suede-like material, quilted trim, contrast stitching, and unique Magma accents throughout. The power-adjustable bucket seats come with ventilation, memory, and extra bolstering. Genesis also added more sound insulation and active noise cancellation to keep things quiet, even when you’re moving fast. Cole Attisha Perks for Early BuyersGenesis isn’t just putting the GV60 Magma in showrooms. Starting mid-January, you’ll find it on display for about two months at Genesis Studio Hanam, along with Magma-only scents, sounds, performance parts, and lifestyle gear. The same setup will pop up at Genesis Studios Suji and Cheongju, then move on to Gangnam and Anseong. Buyers also get a shot at motorsport access. If you buy a GV60 Magma between January 13 and April 30, you can enter a lottery. Two teams will be picked to attend the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France, with race tickets, airfare, hotel, and meals all covered. In South Korea, the GV60 Magma starts at 96.57 million won, or about $72,000 at today’s rates. Of note, pricing could look very different if (or when) it comes to the US. That said, global availability wasn’t mentioned in the release, but given that this is a performance flagship for Genesis, it will likely arrive in major markets to boost the brand. Cole Attisha View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The largest overlanding event in the world will be coming back to California in just a few months. Join overlanders from all over the world in Costa Mesa, California to get educated, equipped, and inspired to continue your overlanding adventures. Over the next few weeks, we’ll have more news about the deals you can expect, educational opportunities, the special events happening throughout the weekend, and much more. In the meantime, we wanted to share the exciting list of sponsors, exhibitors, and partners already lined up for Overland Expo SoCal 2026. Among the brands listed here, you’ll notice plenty of familiar faces and some new names bringing innovative products to the overlanding world. You can find the full list of current exhibitors below. ExHibitor list Title Sponsors We’re excited to work with some of the best in the business as our Title Sponsors for Overland Expo SoCal 2026. Each of our sponsoring companies is helping Overland Expo SoCal 2026 be one of the largest overland gatherings in the world, with more to offer attendees than ever before. Thanks to AlphaRexUSA, ARB 4×4 Accessories, Baja Designs, Classic Overland, Kumho Tires, ROA OFF-ROAD, Subaru, Toyota, and Wanderbox for their support. Supporting Sponsors Our Supporting Sponsors include two exciting names – Play.do that manufactures an innovative line of lightweight, inflatable roof top tents and accessories that make camp set up easier than ever, and our friends at pFriem, who will also be our craft beer sponsor this year. If you like a good brew, you owe it to yourself to try one at the event. Special Area & Event Sponsors Throughout the weekend, you can come by the Oasis Bar and Food Court, sponsored this year by Nokian Tyres. There you can find a great selection of food and drinks, a perfect spot to enjoy a meal, and catch some great programming happening throughout the weekend. This will also be the location for Saturday night’s Happy Hour, sponsored by Toyo Tires. Come and hang out with fellow overlanders from 3 – 5 pm, make some new friends, and enjoy a cold beverage while sharing your favorite new gear finds, tips from a class, or perhaps a favorite trail that may inspire someone’s next adventure. On Sunday, join us for the Women Who Wander Networking brunch sponsored by Maxxis Tires, where you will find women-centered programming and discussion that’s open to everyone. More details about this popular part of the event will be released soon. We’ll have a wide range of topics being taught throughout the weekend in our education area, thanks to our special area sponsors. imCAMPER is sponsoring the perennially popular Backcountry and Culinary Pavilion, where you can level up your camp cooking skills or focus on other skills that make your time in the wilderness safer or more enjoyable. Vortex Optics will be sponsoring our Overland Essentials Area, where classes will focus on the wide set of fundamental skills needed for overlanding, ranging from trip planning to communications to map reading, and many more subjects. FOX will be sponsoring The Learning Lab, where you can find a wide variety of overland-centered topics to explore. The Women Who Wander Pavilion will also be returning, supported by a sponsorship from Kelderman Manufacturing. There you will find women-oriented classes going on all weekend long. Stay tuned as classes for each of these areas are announced soon. When you need a break during the day, you can relax in one of our three bivvys featuring comfortable camp chairs and a place to recharge your electronics. In particular, come visit the bivvy sponsored by Hankook Tire to get some R&R before getting back to the hustle and bustle of the event. Media Partners We’re also excited to work with a great Media Partners team that will cover Overland Expo SoCal during and after the event. Be on the lookout for coverage from Expedition Portal, OVR: Outdoor Vehicle Recreation magazine, Overland Journal, and Off-Road Travel TV on their respective outlets. Don’t miss out on the action! With all of these incredible sponsors, exhibitors, classes, and evening events, be sure to get your tickets for Overland Expo SoCal happening in Costa Mesa, California, March 14-15, 2026, at the Orange County Fair and Event Center. BUY TICKETS NOW View the full article