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Motorcycle Sales Data Honda Australia – 2025 We recently brought you a brief overview of motorcycle sales volumes by FCAI-affiliated brands in 2025, followed by specific data on Yamaha’s sales performance, and now add to that with these highlights that showcase Honda’s motorcycle sales in Australia. While Yamaha topped the overall market when four-wheelers are included in […] The post Honda claim #1 spot in Australian motorcycle market for 2025 – Insight appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Coming off a remarkable Pro Mod rookie season in the Mid-West Drag Racing Series (MWDRS), Jacob McNeal entered the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks with plenty of momentum, driving the screw-blown ’71 Cuda out of the Jon Stouffer Racing camp. But even after a year in which he narrowly missed out on a points championship, McNeal was blown away by the sheer size and scope of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service after arriving at Bradenton Motorsports Park. “The experience itself was so freaking awesome,” McNeal said. “The atmosphere, how it went, everything. With the amount of racers, every time you pull up there, it’s either do or die. You either do it or you don’t. For me, the feeling itself was just like a national event.” McNeal admittedly struggled early on during qualifying, as potential weather concerns pushed the event schedule up a full day. After four sessions, McNeal’s best elapsed time of the weekend was a 3.660 – a very respectable run almost anywhere else, but only good enough for the No. 57 position in Bradenton. “It was hectic for us. We got behind the eight ball a little bit,” said McNeal. “We were trying to get everything done and acclimated, kind of get ready for the qualifying stuff, and then we’re playing catch up the whole weekend. It just kind of bit us a little bit.” As many drivers confirmed during and after the event, getting behind by just a single pass can flip a team’s weekend upside down. With 80 of the top Pro Mod teams in the world on the property, every single qualifying session was of the utmost importance. “You can’t go anywhere else and have a Pro Mod field like that,” McNeal said. “At no other sanctioning body are you going to get that caliber of car every time you go down the track. You have to go for the top 10 or you’re done, because every car there could literally knock you out. It’s just unheard of, you know? There’s no other Pro Modified race in the world like it.” That kind of pressure doesn’t phase McNeal, however. In fact, he thrives on it. In 2025, his first ever season competing in Pro Modified, he went into the final MWDRS race of the year leading the points – and that was after missing the first race of the season. In fact, McNeal said if he’d simply bought a tech card for the first event, he would’ve had enough points to secure the championship. Ultimately, he finished second to two-time series champion Aaron Wells, but said he loves being in that position. “Everybody always kind of asks me, ‘Man, do you get nervous? Do you feel the pressure?’” said McNeal. “All the predicaments I’ve been in with racing – from Top Fuel to Funny Car to Pro Mod – I get excited. Personally, I want to be put in that position as a driver. If I have the equipment, I know I can go out there and get the job done.” A lot of that confidence comes from McNeal’s bracket-racing roots, which he put on display at the Snowbirds. McNeal entered his dragster in the Super Pro class in addition to racing Pro Mod, getting down to eight cars before going red and ultimately ending his weekend. “I was doing good…we got down to eight cars and I kind of shot myself in the foot,” McNeal said. “But bracket racing is my bread and butter. That’s what I’ve done my entire life, and I’ve been able to carry over that style of driving – from staging, letting go of the button, and being able to drive – to my Pro Mod. It’s a different driving style, yeah, but I just try to make sure that every time I go up to stage, it’s identical.” Now, with the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission on the horizon, McNeal is excited to get back to Bradenton for the second race of the DI Winter Series, and he’s coming prepared. Knowing the kind of competition they’ll be facing, McNeal and the Stouffer Racing team have spent the last month upgrading practically everything on the car. “It’s like night and day,” said McNeal, the excitement evident in his voice. “The only thing that’s the same going into this race is the chassis. We have a brand-new block, new heads, new blower…everything is brand new coming into this race. “There’s just an excitement level to knowing we can get after it with new parts,” McNeal added. “That makes me more excited as a driver because if your car does good, the driver does better. Knowing I have all this new stuff to help push this thing to the next level, it’s a big confidence booster. I’m ready to come back. I just love it to death.” This story was originally published on January 12, 2026. The post Jacob McNeal Enjoys First Winter Series Experience, Hungry For More first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

SCAG Racing is pleased to announce that Scott Okuhara has been named Co-Crew Chief on the recently added Bluebird Turf/ Will Smith Top Fuel Dragster Team, joining Glen Huszar. This role marks a new title for Okuhara, who has previously served as Car Chief for many notable teams across the NHRA pits. His experience brings a fresh and welcomed perspective to SCAG Racing’s expanding operation. “Randy and SCAG Racing have put together an amazing race team,” said Okuhara. “Working alongside the SCAG Top Fuel team is a great opportunity and hopefully by combining our resources we can become a stronger competitive race team to represent the Bluebird Turf brand.” Will Smith reinforced that enthusiasm, highlighting the value that Okuhara brings to the team. “I couldn’t be more proud to have Scott Okuhara join the SCAG Racing team on our Bluebird Turf Top Fuel car,” said Smith. “The SCAG Power Equipment, Bluebird Turf, and Metalcraft brands are built by our dealers and employees. They make the difference. Adding Scott to our team strengthens that foundation with proven experience, insight, and leadership. I can’t wait to hit the track with Glen, Scott, and our entire Bluebird Turf team.” Okuhara, Huszar, and Smith will work closely with Tommy DeLago, Jason McCulloch, and Justin Ashley from the SCAG Power Equipment fielded dragster, maximizing resources and knowledge to strengthen the organization as a whole. This story was originally published on January 12, 2026. The post Scott Okuhara Named Co-Crew Chief on Bluebird Turf Top Fuel Team first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The return of The Chase for the Championship has immediately been pitched to NASCAR fans as a return to civility. This of course doesn’t mean a loss of intensity or consequence but those who were part of the announcement on Monday at NASCAR Productions believe that points racing will result in a product that is a little more professional. And in the process, everyone involved ultimately ...Keep readingView the full article

2026 AMA Supercross Championship Round One – Angel Stadium The opening round of the AMA Supercross Championship was staged last weekend at Anaheim, launching the 2026 season amid significant off-season change. Many of the big hitters had switched brands in the off-season, including Eli Tomac to KTM, Chase Sexton to Kawasaki, Jason Anderson to Suzuki, […] The post Blow by blow recap from AMA SX season opener at Anaheim appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

CompetitionPlus.com has been a leader in online motorsports journalism for over 25 years. Through web stories, commentaries, longform videos and podcasts the media organization founded by Bobby Bennett has been the go-to resource for drag racing fans around the world. For 2026 the wildly popular Power Hour show hosted by Lee Craft and Dujunnea Bland will move to a 5:30 p.m. ET time slot starting this Tuesday, January 13, offering live commentary and guest interviews weekly throughout the season. “Power Hour is a staple for drag racing interviews and news and we wanted to move to an even better time slot,” said Bobby Bennett, CompetitionPlus.com Founder. “Lee and Dujunnea bring great perspectives and opinions for all forms of drag racing.” Craft, who operates the Monday Morning Racer media outlet, has been directly in the sport of drag racing as media since 2019. Over that time he has been involved with social media for Top Fuel teams, pit reporting for racing series, race announcing, camera operating, streaming, and marketing efforts with a variety of brands and series. Bland has 13 years of experience in sports media and he has established himself as a versatile reporter, analyst, and podcast host, covering everything from the NFL to NHRA drag racing. He currently serves as the Senior NFL/Jaguars Insider and Director of Content for SportsJourney.com, while also hosting The NotBland Show, a live YouTube program delivering expert insight and exclusive interviews. Power Hour will continue to produce new shows throughout the drag racing season. Shows will be broadcast live on the CompetitionPlus.com social media channels. For additional information visit www.competitionplus.com. This story was originally published on January 12, 2026. The post Competition Plus Announces New Time, Updated Format for ‘Power Hour’ first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

A big year for the industry2025 was home to some intriguing, world-changing stories. From new tariffs to huge new car announcements, the headlines that dominated weren't always the most popular. We've consolidated a year's worth of our most popular posts into one place. Each is loosely summarized below, but follow the link to go deeper and gain a greater understanding of what made each of these so popular among your fellow readers. Blue traffic lights aren't green for a reason ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/Getty Images It turns out those little boxes above the traffic lights in some states and cities are for the boys and girls in blue. They're called "confirmation lights," and are used by law enforcement nd first responders. But be careful, their job is to help law enforcement spot red-light runners more easily and more safely. You’ll find them in parts of Florida, including Gainesville, Orlando, Fort Myers, and Collier County, as well as in states like Colorado, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Kansas. Read On: Noticed Blue Lights Above Traffic Signals? There’s a Reason China bans retractable door handles Premium automakers, especially those deep in the EV space, have developed a notable affection for retractable door handles, famously found on all Tesla models. They look clean, reduce drag, and fit the futuristic image many electric cars aim for. But while the design wins style points, safety concerns have piled up. Over in China, the government finally decided it was going to step in, banning the electric-only mechanisms that regulators say can trap occupants. Read On: China Is Banning Tesla-Style Retractable Door Handles Over Safety Concerns Honda's strange V3 engine Honda Honda's new three-cylinder engine has a clever new kind of forced induction, allowing for more power via a new electronically controlled compressor. Rather than relying on mechanical parameters to spin a turbine (as a supercharger or turbocharger does), the compressor now uses the bike's ECU to make the call. Built for use on one of the brand's latest motorcycles, the three-cylinder engine is so efficient that the 900cc unit will reportedly produce as much power as a conventional naturally aspirated 1.2-liter engine. Read On: Honda’s New V3 Engine Ditches Turbos and Superchargers for Something Smarter The Honda Prelude continues to generate buzz At the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, we saw a wide variety of automotive spectacles, from brand-new EVs to hypercar classics. But one of our favorite cars to make an appearance was a name we haven’t heard in decades: the Honda Prelude. Honda brought its new coupe to the FoS and drew quite a crowd in doing so. It was our first look at the Prelude, and the impressions made then still resonate with us now. The Prelude's specs were under wraps then, as was the hybrid sports coupe's pricing. Read On: Seeing the New Honda Prelude Up Close Reveals Its Retro Magic View the full article

Cassons Australia National Marketing Manager Marketing Manager – Motorcycle & Bicycle Eastern Creek, Sydney NSW (Hybrid) Management (Marketing & Communications) Full time: $120,000 – $160,000 per year Cassons are seeking an experienced and commercially minded Marketing Manager to lead and execute marketing initiatives across the Motorcycle and Bicycle industries. This is a senior, hands‑on role for […] The post Position Vacant – National Marketing Manager – Cassons appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

NASCAR's championship format has just undergone its latest change, but it's far from the first time the Sanctioning Body has tweaked the way it crowns a champion. At some point, stock car racing was awarding points based on prize money, race lengths, or even laps completed. In the modern age, the Chase or the playoffs have existed in some form since 2004, breaking the season up into parts and ...Keep readingView the full article

Starting in 2026, NASCAR will revert to a variation of the Chase for the Championship format it used to crown its champions from 2004-to-2013. In other words, no more win and you’re in and no more multiple elimination rounds. Most importantly, the sample size to determine the champion is no longer a single race but a 10-race points race. However, unlike NASCAR’s first version of a ...Keep readingView the full article

Orlando Speed World Dragway has ignited a new debate in the racing world by announcing a total ban on fully electric vehicles from its dragstrip – not just in competition, but also during test and tune days – effective immediately. The move, revealed in a January 8 press release from the Central Florida facility, cites safety concerns tied to battery technology and emergency response capabilities, and draws a stark line in the sand on how traditional motorsports venues are approaching the rise of electrified performance. What the Track Is Saying In its announcement, OSW outlined several risks that it says justify prohibiting fully electric cars: Battery hazards: In a collision, high-voltage battery packs may release toxic and potentially flammable gases that traditional fire crews aren’t equipped to manage safely. Responder uncertainty: First responders may struggle to be certain a vehicle’s electrical systems are fully “off,” increasing risk during rescue operations. Entrapment issues: EVs sometimes have doors that won’t unlock after a crash without power – a real concern if a driver is unconscious. Live chassis concerns: There’s a possibility, OSW said, that the chassis could remain “live” with electricity even after impact, posing electrocution risk during extraction. Towing challenges: Because electric cars don’t roll easily with the power cut, existing track equipment allegedly can’t tow disabled EVs. Specialized systems required: Handling EV battery fires often requires specific fire suppression systems – like water immersion baths – that the facility doesn’t currently have. Importantly, the ban only applies to fully electric vehicles – hybrids are still welcome on the property. A Local Move with Global Echoes Orlando’s approach isn’t an isolated quirk. Drag strips in other countries have made similar decisions. Willowbank Raceway in Queensland, Australia, banned fully electric vehicles citing nearly identical safety rationales – toxic gases, emergency response unfamiliarity, and perceived hardware limitations – even while allowing hybrids to race. That track’s statement referenced regulations from agencies such as Motorsport Australia and the National Electric Drag Racing Association as part of its risk review. What these moves reveal is that many traditional motorsport venues haven’t yet found a way to comfortably incorporate electric propulsion into their safety and operations frameworks. High-voltage batteries bring new failure modes that simply aren’t on the radar for facilities built around internal combustion engines – at least not yet. Safety Versus Innovation – Are They Mutually Exclusive? At one level, Orlando’s move is purely defensive: track management is saying they lack the resources and infrastructure to handle EV incidents in a way they feel comfortable with. From a risk management perspective, that’s understandable – especially for smaller facilities without dedicated fire trucks, specialized water suppression systems, or extensive training for high-voltage emergencies. But critics argue the ban is overly broad – even reactionary. Much of the concern centers on worst-case scenarios that have few documented precedents in real world EV racing. Yes, battery fires can be intense and lithium chemistry behaviors are different from gasoline, but first responders can and do train for them, and many modern race venues already handle them on the street and road racing side. There’s also the question of fairness. As one enthusiast forum pointed out, hybrid cars – which contain sizable battery packs of their own – are still allowed, despite sharing some of the same risks Orlando listed for EVs. To some, that inconsistency suggests the issue may be less about ability to manage safety and more about readiness to adapt tradition to new technology. What This Means for Drag Racing’s Future Here’s the rub: electric vehicles aren’t a fringe curiosity anymore. They’re already punching into performance territory that rivals – and sometimes eclipses – internal combustion – especially in showroom stock configuration. Legendary racer Don Garlits himself pushed an electric dragster north of 180 mph in the quarter mile with his Swamp Rat dragsters, showing what electric propulsion can do on the strip when it’s allowed. And in grassroots circles – such as the National Electric Drag Racing Association, which has been advocating EV drag racing since the late ’90s – electric competition is treated not as a threat but as a burgeoning category that deserves structure and rules, not exclusion. From a broader industry perspective, other forms of motorsport have already forged paths for electrified competition. Formula E, for example, is a global spec series that deals with safety, logistics, and competition entirely around electric power, proving there are established ways to race EVs safely at high levels. The divide now being drawn at places like Orlando Speed World is less about can EVs race safely and more about who bears the cost and responsibility of adapting the venue to meet that future. At a time when electrification is accelerating in road cars – and performance tuning is part of that shift – the drag racing world is being forced to ask: will it adapt, or will it simply say “no thanks”. Looking Forward Orlando Speed World’s decision has not only put its own policy under the microscope, it’s opened a larger conversation: how should drag racing – one of motorsport’s most visceral and electric forms – reconcile the rise of silent, torque-rich technology with the traditions that built it? For now, the ban is in force. The reactions are loud. And the debate is only just getting started. This story was originally published on January 12, 2026. The post Orlando Speed World Dragway Bans Fully Electric Vehicles from Competition and Testing first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Amongst fire risks, accessible chargers and hefty price tags, here’s another drawback to owning an electric vehicle: when winter hits, and you need to defrost your windshield, you’re also draining precious battery power. But traditional gas-powered cars aren’t exactly perfect either, relying on outdated HVAC systems and long engine warm-up times before you can even see the road ahead. A Canadian startup called Betterfrost Technologies is showing that there’s a smarter way forward. By using targeted electrical pulses to melt ice in just over a minute, the company may have found one of the simplest ways to clear your windshield faster – while also protecting EV range when it matters most. Things like these are why just 7% of US buyers want an EV as their next car. Smarter Way to Melt Ice Kristen Brown Ontario-based Betterfrost uses concentrated high-voltage electrical pulses that travel through a conductive layer embedded in the windshield. Instead of heating the entire glass or blasting warm air from the dashboard, the system focuses on breaking the bond between ice and glass by melting an ultra-thin layer — thinner than 0.01 mm — beneath it. Once that bond disappears, the rest of the ice slides off effortlessly. Betterfrost has been around since 2015, won the 2024 Best Technology of the Year award presented by the New Enterprise Forum (NEF), and secured a collaboration with Tier 1 supplier Denso. Why EVs Will Gain The MostCold weather is one of the biggest enemies of electric range – air conditioning, heated seats, and defrosting your windshield all eat away at your range. HVAC-based windshield clearing alone can consume the equivalent of up to 40 km of driving range. Betterfrost claims its system uses up to 20 times less energy than conventional HVAC defrosting. In a real-world demo using a Lexus RX, the difference was night and day: the standard system took more than 16 minutes to clear the windshield, while Betterfrost’s solution did the job in just over a minute. The company says this approach is up to 40% more efficient than heated glass, potentially adding as much as 38 km (23.6 miles) of extra range per day in winter and saving automakers around $600 per vehicle in battery costs. EVs still cost $11,000 more than the comparable ICE cars, so every penny saved matters. And recent surveys suggest that 61% of consumers would still choose a gas-powered vehicle for their next purchase, and most of them don't even account for defrosting-induced range anxiety. Is This The Future? Mercedes-Benz While Betterfrost’s messaging has focused heavily on electric vehicles, the appeal is far broader. Gasoline cars could benefit just as much, especially in colder regions where drivers still wait for engines to warm up before the windshield clears. Even automakers themselves like Mercedes-Benz have tried cutting down on how long you have to wait for your car to heat up, yet no one can do it as efficiently as Betterfrost. Better yet, this technology also extends beyond passenger cars. Betterfrost has tested its system in aviation, claiming it can remove up to 3 inches of ice from airplane wings in just two minutes at sub-zero temperatures. Whether it’s helping EVs preserve range, making gas cars more convenient in winter, or improving safety across multiple transport sectors, this tiny layer of melted ice could end up making a surprisingly big impact on the broader transportation industry. View the full article

There are wins – and then there are moments that change how a racer is defined. For Jason Harris, the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals didn’t just add another trophy to an already decorated career. It placed him at the center of the most unforgiving competitive environment in modern drag racing – and demanded that he prove it, five times in a row. “This was the pinnacle of my career,” Harris said. “I’ve won championships. I’ve won a lot of races. I’ve never gotten the type of press that I’ve gotten just from this one race.” That contrast tells you everything you need to know about the Drag Illustrated Winter Series. This isn’t a race you survive on reputation. It’s a race that exposes you. A Mindset Built for Pressure Harris didn’t arrive at Snowbirds believing this was his moment. In fact, quite the opposite. “I think in my mind, I wasn’t going to win it,” he said. “So I was just driving like a madman – no care in the world. Do the best you can, and it is what it is.” That freedom turned into focus. And focus turned into execution. “I kind of wrote myself off,” Harris admitted. “We tested so bad. I knew I had a car that would run, but I felt like I got lucky.” Luck doesn’t survive a Winter Series elimination day. No Safe Rounds, No Easy Paths The Winter Series removes comfort from the equation. With chip draws replacing ladders and more than 80 cars fighting for 32 spots, there is no such thing as a favorable path. “The hardest round to win is the one you’re supposed to win,” Harris said. “That’s the one that can get you.” Harris’ road to the final was relentless – and he knew it the moment the chips were drawn. That road wasn’t hypothetical. It was real names, real cars, and real consequences – Mark Micke, Jimmy Taylor, Randy Weatherford, Kevin Rivenbark, and Sidnei Frigo – all standing between Harris and the winner’s circle. There were no safe rounds, no early breaks, and no margin for error. “I knew I was going to pull the worst one in the room,” Harris said. “That’s just how it goes.” Instead of reacting, Harris prepared. “When I rode back from the chip draw to the trailer, I’d already planned out the round,” he said. “This is what the track’s going to do. This is what I need to do.” Round by round, the plan held. “It was clicking,” Harris said. “Just clicking.” Five Rounds of Truth Winning one round is difficult. Winning five – against the deepest Pro Mod field ever assembled – is something else entirely. “I tell people all the time, it’s hard to win five games of tic‑tac‑toe in a row unless you’re playing with your kid,” Harris said. “Let alone racing 3.5‑second door slammers at 210‑plus.” The pressure never relented. Neither did the competition. “When everything aligned like it did,” Harris said, “I don’t think anybody could have stopped me that day.” That alignment – car, driver, and mindset – is exactly what the Winter Series was designed to reveal. Why This Series Feels Different Part of why Harris’ win resonated so deeply is because it felt earned – not manufactured. “Twenty minutes before this, I was behind the counter at an auto repair shop,” Harris said. “That’s the story.” He’s balancing family, work, and racing the same way thousands of competitors do – and standing toe‑to‑toe with the best in the world. “My kids do without me being a dad sometimes so I can go racing,” he said. “But they understand that.” That relatability is a feature of the Winter Series, not a coincidence. Proving It – Again Harris now heads deeper into the Winter Series with something no one anticipated this early: possibility. He remains eligible for both the Elite Motorsports Million and the Jerry Bickle Race Cars Clean Sweep Challenge – stakes that have turned the remainder of the series into required viewing. “I didn’t think either one of them was feasible,” Harris said. “I didn’t think you could qualify number one and win the race – and then I did it.” That’s the danger of this series. It doesn’t just reward excellence. It forces it. This story was originally published on January 12, 2026. The post “I Didn’t Think I Was Going to Win It”: Jason Harris and the Hardest Place to Prove Yourself first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Modern motorcycles have become rolling supercomputers, draped in plastic and governed by algorithms; the classic Triumph parallel twin remains a canvas for the minimalist. It is motor that looks like a drawing of an engine, housed in a silhouette that has defined "cool" since Brando first scowled at... View the full article

A Factory-Built FlexOne of Mercedes-Benz’s rarest creations – instantly recognizable by its 6×6 layout – has surfaced on Bring a Trailer. Approximately 100 examples of the G63 AMG 6×6 were built by Magna Steyr in Austria between 2013 and 2015, but this particular truck stands out further thanks to extensive upgrades from Brabus, which added another layer of luxury and performance to an already extreme machine. Beyond its rarity, the truck’s 6×6 layout delivers improvements in off-road capability. The model traces its roots to the six-wheel-drive military G-Wagon originally developed for the Australian Army. It also happens to be the same type of vehicle briefly featured in 2015’s Jurassic World. The six-wheel-drive configuration improves both weight distribution and traction; even if two or three wheels lose grip, the remaining driven wheels can continue to propel the truck forward. That additional capability, however, comes with increased mechanical complexity and higher maintenance costs. Bring a Trailer The G700 TreatmentSetting those drawbacks aside, the buyer is getting a clean 2014 example showing just 14,000 miles on the odometer. Power comes from a 5.5-liter V8 fitted with twin turbochargers from Brabus under its G700 package. Output is rated at a claimed 700 horsepower – an increase of 164 horsepower over the stock configuration. Being a 6×6, all six wheels receive power, distributed in a 30:40:30 torque split through a 7-speed AMG automatic transmission. There are limitations, however. This vehicle is registered under the “show or display” exemption, capping on-road use in the United States to 2,500 miles per year. The truck was originally delivered to Dubai, later exported to Saudi Arabia, and has since made its way stateside. Bring a Trailer Engineered to Go Just About AnywhereThanks to the use of portal axles, the truck boasts an impressive 18 inches of ground clearance. It rides on 18-inch Hutchinson beadlock wheels and features a central tire inflation system that allows the driver to adjust air pressure to suit varying terrain and road conditions. Inside, the cabin is trimmed in Brabus red quilted leather and includes a Harman Kardon sound system, rear-seat entertainment, and a wood-lined cargo bed. At the time of writing, the listing is set to expire on Friday, with bidding currently sitting at $600,000. For those seeking modern 6×6 alternatives, options include the VelociRaptor 6×6 from Hennessey Performance – based on the Ford F-150 Raptor R - as well as the Apocalypse Warlord 6×6, which starts life as a Ram 1500 TRX. Bring a Trailer View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Mazda does not have a single all-electric vehicle in its U.S. lineup, and the first EV on its new in-house-developed platform won't arrive until a year later than previously anticipated. That's according to new reporting from Auto Express, after the British publication saw an official presentation that showed the EV's launch would be pushed from 2027 to 2028. The Mazda EV-scalable architecture was first announced in 2021, with plans for several new models to arrive upon it between 2025 and 2030, but the automaker later changed the date for its first car on the platform to 2027, and now it's been delayed by another year, with instability cited as one of the reasons. EV Technology Moves Quickly Mazda According to the Deputy General Manager of R&D for Mazda Europe, Christian Schultze, "EV technology is not something stable. So while you're developing, things are changing [and advancing]." He also told the publication that the "availability of resources and expertise" was another significant challenge, which makes sense given how small Mazda is relative to a powerhouse conglomerate like the Volkswagen Group, for example. But this delay may not be a bad thing. Mazda is selling more cars in the U.S. than ever, despite not offering a single EV after the disappearance of the short-lived MX-30. Moreover, Schultze highlighted that some manufacturers that have been faster to offer EVs have already seen some disadvantages, saying that some of these other manufacturers' EV platforms "have already disappeared, or have been recognized as too expensive or too heavy and so forth." Mazda is giving itself more time "to prepare the best possible solution." Mazda's First In-House EV Remains a Mystery Mazda Mazda still hasn't revealed what the first product on its own EV platform will look like, but it's safe to assume that it will be a crossover or SUV of some sort. It's also safe to say that the new EV won't be a Tesla Model Y competitor because Mazda has just launched the CX-6e, which slots into that midsize segment. Whatever the new EV is and whenever it finally arrives, it won't be long before it's joined by other siblings. Just as the BMW iX3 will share its Neue Klasse platform with several other vehicles, Mazda's new EV platform is intended to spawn a full range of all-electric vehicles, and each one will be "a true Mazda," according to Schultze. That means it should be both attractive and fun to drive. We'll find out more as the year progresses, unless, of course, the platform is further delayed. View the full article

Taking It Up a NotchAston Martin cars are already some of the most exclusive names money can buy. However, the brand has been eager to showcase its ability to produce extreme machines crafted in line with its principles of luxury, design, and performance. One of the most recent exclusive models was the Aston Martin Valour, made in 2023 to commemorate Aston's 110th anniversary. The Valour itself was already a very unique car, limited to just 110 units, but somebody within the brand felt it could be better and had commissioned a few more examples of an upgraded version, which brings us to the Aston Martin Valiant. Related: Aston Martin Valiant is Fernando Alonso's take on the Valour PistonHeads Valiant EffortThat individual who wanted more out of the Valour was none other than two-time Formula 1 World Champion Fernando Alonso, who is a current driver for the Aston Martin Team. He wanted a lighter and more powerful car that ended up becoming the Aston Martin Valiant. The Valiant is still based on the Valour, carrying over the retro-futurist design, and features a more aggressive body kit that hints at its elevated performance. Just 38 examples were made, and now, one is up for sale on PistonHeads. This particular example is finished in an eye-catching Crimson Red Metallic with Red carbon fiber aerodynamic components. Since the Valiant is biased more towards performance, it comes with upgraded brakes, much better suspension, and a lot of weight-saving upgrades. Inside the Valiant is a blend of performance and bespoke luxury. This one has a Chancellor Red Leather interior, bespoke black Alcantara and Satin Red carbon fiber interior trim, Satin Red lightweight carbon fiber bucket seats, Chancellor Red contrast stitching with Q-specified embroidery, Exposed Satin Red carbon fiber transmission tunnel & door cards, Chancellor Red leather Steering wheel with brushed aluminum, and brushed titanium lightweight gear knob with exposed gear linkages. Yes, we're sure the previous owner really liked red. PistonHeads Rarity Breeds ExpenseIn terms of overall performance, the Valiant comes with a 5.2-liter twin-turbocharged V12 that makes a massive 740 hp (30+ more hp than the Valour), all that power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual transmission. There are very few cars that are conceived out of already limited edition models, and the Valiant is part of that club. Born in celebration of a storied history and infused with the DNA of one of the best race car drivers to ever live, this 500-mile example is listed at around $3,500,000. PistonHeads View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The new Mercedes-Benz CLA has been named 2026 “Car of the Year” in Europe, taking home one of the industry’s most closely watched trophies at the Brussels Motor Show. It scored comfortably ahead of the Škoda Elroq, Kia EV4, Citroën C5 Aircross, Fiat Grande Panda, Dacia Bigster, and Renault 4, convincing a jury of nearly 60 journalists from 23 countries that it isn’t just another compact premium sedan. For Mercedes, the win is a big deal. It is only the brand’s second Car of the Year title ever, and the first since the 450 SE/SEL back in the 1970s. In other words, the CLA just ended a drought that lasted more than half a century. Also it matters more, this is the car Mercedes chose to debut its new MMA platform and MB.OS software on, and the jury basically just endorsed that whole strategy. Mercedes-Benz View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Range, Charging And Software Sealed The DealThe Car of the Year title is explicitly tied to the CLA with EQ Technology, the fully electric version on the new MMA platform. In its long-range spec, the CLA claims a WLTP range that pushes into the 480–790 km band depending on configuration, helped by a slippery body and an efficient drive unit. An 800-volt architecture allows serious fast charging too, with Mercedes quoting the kind of “add hundreds of kilometers in about 10 minutes” numbers that instantly move a car to the front of the pack. The 2026 World Car of the Year shortlist shows that every 2026 World Car of the Year finalist has some form of electrification, so long range, fast charging, and efficiency are the new table stakes. The CLA does all of that while still feeling like a proper Mercedes inside, with the new MB.OS-based MBUX system tying together navigation, over-the-air updates, and driver-assist in a way that feels more integrated than most rivals. Why The CLA’s Hybrid Future Might Be The Cleverest PartThe interesting twist is that this win is probably just the beginning for the nameplate. The jury has rewarded the EV first, but the same MMA platform is designed to host plug-in hybrids and petrol-hybrids that share much of the software and user experience. Mercedes is already laying the groundwork with the argument that the CLA hybrid could be its smartest entry sedan yet, combining long electric-only range with real-world flexibility for buyers who are not ready to go full EV. Put simply, the award is not just a pat on the back for one well-executed electric model. It is a signal that Mercedes’ new small-car playbook, EV-first platform, serious efficiency, 800-volt charging, and a unified software brain, has landed exactly where it needed to. The CLA happened to be first in line and walked away with the trophy, but the hardware and ideas underneath it are what really just won 2026 Car of the Year. View the full article

Chinese EVs Are Raising the BarChinese EVs still get mixed reactions, with many questioning their long-term reliability and whether the brands can be trusted. Others, meanwhile, are starting to notice how these cars are doing things no one saw coming. That second group is getting bigger fast, with BYD’s Yangwang U9 electric hypercar leading the pack. Another Chinese brand also made headlines – the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra. Yes, that Xiaomi – the one known for phones and gadgets. It’s easy to look at the specs and think this is just another numbers battle, but performance cars prove themselves on the road, not just on paper. That’s where Carwow’s latest test comes in. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra goes head-to-head with Ferrari’s SF90 XX – one of the wildest road cars Ferrari has ever built – to see what happens when a high-powered EV takes on a modern hybrid supercar in less-than-ideal conditions. Big Power, Big Weight, Bigger SurpriseOn paper, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra’s numbers barely seem real. Three motors, 1,526 horsepower, and 1,305 lb-ft of torque – all sent to all four wheels. The catch? It’s heavy, weighing in at about 5,200 pounds. Still, Xiaomi says it can hit 0-62 mph in just 1.98 seconds. The Ferrari SF90 XX, though electrified, comes with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that puts out 786 hp on its own, and with three electric motors in the mix, total output climbs to 1,016 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Power goes to all four wheels, but the Ferrari is much lighter at around 3,660 pounds. It does 0-62 mph in about 2.3 seconds. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra had the advantage on paper, and it was evident in the straight-line contest. It finished the quarter-mile in 9.3 seconds, leaving the Ferrari behind at 10.2 seconds. Extended to the half-mile market, the gap grew even more: 14.5 seconds for the Xiaomi, 15.7 for the Ferrari. Braking from 100 mph showed Ferrari’s engineering at play, with the SF90 XX stopping over a car length shorter. Getty Images Traction Tells the Real StoryThere’s an explanation for the SF90 XX’s struggle, though. According to the video, a storm the day before left sand on the track, making traction a real issue. Even with all-wheel drive, the SF90 XX couldn’t get its power down cleanly. The Xiaomi, on the other hand, barely seemed to notice – EVs are just better at managing torque when grip is low. The SU7’s win doesn’t mean the end for internal combustion among performance cars, but it shows just how fast things are changing. Electrification has reached a point where even newcomers with no car-building history can take on the established brands if the conditions are right. The next chapter in performance cars will be about how well you can use the power you have, not just the badge on the hood. Then again, we’re pretty sure the track-focused Ferrari SF90 XX will shine when it comes to a lap battle. Ferrari View the full article

Kia doesn’t have an official performance division like Hyundai’s N, Toyota’s GR, or Honda’s Type R, but its most potent models are identifiable by the ‘GT’ moniker. In the United States, the EV6 GT (601 horsepower) and K5 GT (290 hp) are two such examples. But Kia has been paying closer attention to enthusiast-pleasing models of late, and has just revealed no less than three new GT models at the Brussels Motor Show, alongside the cute EV2. These are the EV3 GT, EV4 Hatchback GT, and EV5 GT. Every model in this hot trio brings all-wheel drive and high outputs to the table, but we may have to admire them all from a distance. Where Do They Fit In? Kia EV4 GT K View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article These new electric models are high-performance versions of existing EVs in Kia’s lineup: EV3 GT: Subcompact crossoverEV4 Hatchback GT: Compact hatchbackEV5 GT: Compact crossoverKia only released limited details on these three models, but all have dual motors and standard AWD. Like other GTs, they have specially tuned chassis setups to prioritize sharp responses. They also feature simulated gearshifts, active sound design, and a dedicated GT driving mode. The EV3 GT and EV4 GT produce 288 hp combined, some way off the 601 hp of the EV6 GT. But these are smaller and presumably lighter models, so 288 hp should still feel quite perky. The EV5 GT’s outputs were not published, but it may be a bit more powerful. All three GT models will feature subtle visual upgrades like unique wheels, but they’re not as overtly sporty-looking as Hyundai’s N models. No Plans For American Debut K At the moment, none of the cars these GT models are based on—EV3, EV4 Hatchback, or EV5—are sold in the United States, which virtually eliminates these performance variants from ever being sold here. The closest we have to any of them is the EV4 Sedan, the only EV4 body style planned for this market. Producing 201 hp, the EV4 is positioned as an affordable and practical electric sedan, with no performance pretensions whatsoever. Of the three models, the EV5 GT would likely be the most successful model if sold here, since the compact crossover segment is so popular. It would theoretically compete with the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y, but perhaps Kia feels it would overlap too much with the existing EV6. Unfortunately, it was confirmed last October that the EV5 would not be sold in the USA, despite plans for it to reach markets like Canada. Another Kia GT model, the EV9 GT, was indefinitely delayed late last year due to changing market conditions. Related: Kia Just Canceled Its Most Exciting EV Before It Even Launched Final ThoughtsThis is a bittersweet reveal from Kia. The three new GT models show that the Korean marque is working hard to move beyond its reputation for manufacturing competent, value-focused models. But all three vehicles are unlikely to be sold here, adding to the long list of cool cars that are forbidden fruit in the United States. They’ll join performance models like Hyundai’s i20 N and i30 N as driver-focused cars we’ll likely never get to experience. View the full article

The Build BeginsApollo Automobil announced on Instagram that production of the Evo has officially begun, signaling that the project remains on schedule. Limited to just 10 units, the Evo is developed exclusively for track use and builds upon the innovations introduced by its predecessor, the Intensa Emozione (IE). This means the same 6.3-liter naturally aspirated V12 sourced from Ferrari remains in use, though it has been tuned to produce 800 horsepower—up from roughly 780 hp in the IE. That output makes the engine a unique offering today, as most modern high-performance cars, such as the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, rely on forced induction and/or hybrid assistance. In that sense, the Evo becomes even rarer, beyond its already ultra-limited production run. Built for Life on the TrackThe latest update from the German automaker also notes that there is still one major reveal to come. Notably, the interior has yet to be unveiled, which, given that the car is strictly track-only, suggests it will look far from suitable for daily driving. Its predecessor, the IE, was developed with road legality in mind, though sightings on public roads remain extremely rare, as production was also limited to just 10 units—making it even rarer than cars such as the V12-powered Lamborghini Veneno. The company has also stated that each of the 10 customers can extensively reconfigure their individual example through its Apollo Studio program. As for the exterior and structure, the Evo weighs 2,866 pounds—roughly 110 pounds more than its predecessor—but features a carbon-fiber monocoque that is said to be 15 percent stiffer. Some sources suggest the hypercar can generate up to 6,600 pounds of downforce thanks to its Le Mans–inspired active aerodynamic components. Limited by DesignThis track-only hypercar could make its way stateside, especially considering that some IE units have reportedly arrived in the country. In fact, one example with 1,600 miles on the odometer was listed for sale at Miller Motorcars of Greenwich, Connecticut, as recently as November 2025. Apollo sold the IE with a starting price of $2.670 million, so it is reasonable to assume that the Evo—benefiting from increased power, added stiffness, and further development—will fetch an even higher price. Given its extreme rarity and the brand’s apparent focus on craftsmanship over mass commercialization, the Evo is positioned to stand as one of the most coveted modern collector cars. View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A More Accessible Lucid, With a TwistThe Lucid Gravity is aimed at buyers who never considered the Air. Where the Air put Lucid on the map as a luxury EV – sometimes to a fault – the Gravity goes after a wider audience. It’s priced to be within reach and comes as an electric SUV – the body style most new car buyers are looking for right now. You get the space and practicality you expect from an SUV, but Lucid skipped the over-the-top luxury extras that usually push prices up. But there’s more to the Gravity than just its shape and price. Lucid teamed up with Trimble, a company known for pinpoint-accurate positioning tech in aviation and construction. Now, that same technology is built into the Gravity’s navigation and driver-assist systems, giving the SUV a much sharper sense of where it is on the road. Why This Driver-Assist Tech Is DifferentMost driver-assist systems rely on standard GPS, which works until you hit a tunnel, a parking garage, or a city full of tall buildings. That’s when the system can lose track of your location – sometimes by several meters. Trimble’s RTX and ProPoint Go solve this by combining satellite data with six-axis sensors, so the Gravity always knows exactly where it is, even when GPS can’t keep up. What sets the Gravity apart is how Lucid puts this positioning tech at the core of the driving experience. The SUV uses Trimble’s system as its main source for location, speed, and direction, sending that data straight to its Hands-Free Driving Assist. In practice, the Gravity knows exactly which lane it’s in and its spot on the highway before it lets you take your hands off the wheel. The best part is, Lucid didn’t have to load the Gravity with a bunch of new hardware. Instead, the system uses sensor fusion, blending the SUV’s existing sensors with Trimble’s positioning engine. That’s how Lucid can offer this tech without redesigning the whole vehicle. This improved positioning also makes range estimates more accurate, since the Gravity can use real altitude data. That means it can factor in hills and elevation changes, not just assume you’re always driving on flat roads. What It Means for Other LucidsTrimble’s positioning technology will come standard on new Lucid Gravity models starting at the end of January 2026. Existing Gravity owners won’t be left behind, as Lucid plans to deliver the feature through an over-the-air software update, upgrading navigation and driver-assist behavior without a service visit. As for other Lucid models, whether they’ll get this tech depends on how their hardware lines up and how closely the system can work with each vehicle’s sensors and software. The Gravity is the first Lucid built from the start to use this level of positioning accuracy. Rolling it out to other models will probably need the same kind of technical groundwork. View the full article

Peak PersonalizationGiven Bugatti’s ultra-rare status, owning one of the French marque’s cars is already the ultimate statement piece. This Bugatti Bolide owner, however, took things a step further by personalizing the hypercar to match his Gulfstream G550 private jet. Beverly Hills–based car dealer O’Gara Coach showcased the two elite vehicles side by side on Instagram. Both wear the Bolide’s familiar two-tone black-and-blue paint scheme, with the blue shade paying homage to French Racing Blue—the color traditionally used by French racing teams. Under the old national racing color system, the United Kingdom was represented by green and Italy by red, which is why red ultimately became synonymous with Ferrari. The Price of Going All InTo understand just how extreme this collection is, it helps to look at pricing. The Bugatti Bolide—which is limited to just 40 examples—carries a starting price of €4 million (roughly $4.7 million). It is a track-only machine powered by an 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16 engine, producing 1,578 horsepower, or up to 1,825 horsepower when running on 110-octane racing fuel. Along with the road-legal Mistral roadster, the Bolide stands among the final Bugatti models to feature the W16 engine, which will soon be succeeded by a naturally aspirated V16 hybrid powertrain in the upcoming Tourbillon. Meanwhile, the Gulfstream G550 is an ultra-long-range business jet with a new list price of approximately $62 million, though used prices range around $15 million, with low-hour examples reaching over $30 million. According to records from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aircraft in question was manufactured in 2006 and is powered by two Rolls-Royce turbofan engines. @ogaracoach on Instagram Delivery in StyleFew details were shared about the owner. O’Gara Coach only noted that the customer flew in aboard his Gulfstream G550 to The Thermal Club in California to take delivery of the hypercar. The occasion not only provided an opportunity for a photo op, but also gave the owner time to better understand both the performance capabilities and the limitations of his new track-focused machine. While this jet-and-hypercar pairing may seem far-fetched for most, Bugatti does offer a more accessible way to experience the Bolide—at least in scaled-down form. The model is available as an official 905-piece Lego Technic kit from the Lego Group, one of several collaborations between the French marque and the toy company. At the start of the year, the partnership further expanded with the release of the Lego Technic Chiron Pur Sport and the Lego Speed Champions Vision Gran Turismo. @ogaracoach on Instagram View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Only Way Was Always UpFrom the moment the Ferrari F40 came out in 1987, it was pretty much guaranteed that its values would never go down. It also kicked off Ferrari's tradition of rolling out an ultra-rare and ultra-exclusive hypercar at least once every decade. We've had four Ferrari hypercars since the F40, with the latest one being the F80. When it was new, the F40 carried a price tag of about $400,000. Adjust that for inflation, and you're looking at about $1,165,000 in today's money. The thing is, F40s often sell for much more than that, as these typically fetch over $2,000,000. The rarer and not-exactly-road-legal F40 LM goes for much more, by the way. A Potential Record-BreakerSeveral F40s have been sold over the last couple of years, and a couple have come close to breaking the $4,000,000 mark. The most recent record was $3,886,250 and was sold during last year's RM Sotheby's Abu Dhabi auction. It was a 1990 model with a hair under 3,000 miles on the odometer. But one of two(!) F40s that will be up for sale at the Mecum auction in Kissimmee 2026 include this low-mile example from 1992. It's part of the Bachman Ferrari Collection, and it's only done 458 miles in the last 34 years. That's an average of less than 15 miles per year —assuming it's even brought out in certain years. It's one of the 213 F40s built for the U.S market and one of 24 produced in 1992 and rolled out of Maranello in April of that year. If we're talking specifics, that makes a rare car even more exclusive. By the way, the second F40 part of the collection has traveled a little bit more over the years, 865 miles on the clock. A Legend, No Matter the PriceThe backstory of the F40 is an interesting thing to hear. Yes, many books and documentaries have been done about it, but it's always nice to revisit it from time to time. It started out as a proposal to enter Group B racing and a successor of sorts to the 288 GTO. However, the Group B category was canned at the end of the 1986 motorsport season. Ferrari had built five prototypes in the form of the 288 GTO Evoluzione, but no race series to enter it. With that, the focus shifted to turning it into a road car. It also helped that Enzo Ferrari wanted a flagship model that would later become the last vehicle the company's founder would sign off on personally. The result? It would be the antithesis of the Porsche 959 that came out in 1986. The F40 was raw and visceral, essentially being a race car with license plates. The interior was composed of bare carbon fiber, and equipment was kept to a minimum. It was just a hair over 3,000 lbs for U.S versions and under that for Europe, which did wonders for handling and performance. It was then powered by a 2.9-liter twin-turbo V8 that packed 471 hp and 426 lb-ft of torque, which was more than enough to give it a top speed of 201 mph. What a car, indeed. Mecum Auctions Mecum Auctions View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

It’s Stage 7, after a full day of rest, but the desert didn’t take a break. It’s ready to rock each and every day, and Stage 7 is no different. In the video below you’ll see Stage 7, the start of the 2nd week of Dakar is now, and it starts with hundreds of miles of dunes and sand! There is still a lot of Dakar 2026 left to go, and rest day was welcome, but they all needed it after Stage 6 which was hell for many teams. We’ve been sharing every day’s coverage from the 2026 Dakar Rally and today is no different. Watch the video to see all the Stage 6 action, highlights, and more below! Bodies and vehicles are being put to the test and the carnage and emotions are real! This tough and technical stage was toughernastier than many expected. Dakar Rally 2026 is on! The worlds longest, toughest, and most infamous off-road race has started and we couldn’t be more excited! Famous racers and teams, well known for their prowess in the sand and on Dakar in general, have already been struggling which is just more proof of how gnarly this race really is. There are a lot of new cars and new teams mixed in with proven cars and older teams, but it’s the little things that matter at Dakar. If you don’t take care of your equipment, and keep your teams and people healthy, then you’ll never finish and if you don’t finish you can’t win. This race goes all over Saudi Arabia and will subject drivers and riders to all kinds of sand terrain and more. But the sand is what swallows teams. It’s the most fierce of the challenges. Will 2026 prove to be even tougher than last year? Would you run at Dakar if given the chance? Let us know in the comments section below. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED ANY OF THE COVERAGE FROM PREVIOUS STAGES! The post Dakar Rally 2026 Coverage: Stage 7 Racing Action! We Hope They Got Good Rest, Because The Desert Isn’t Playing! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article