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There are a lot of differences between your average body shop paint and bodywork and something that someone like Kevin Tetz would do for a high end project. Sometimes projects don’t require, or deserve, insanely perfect bodywork and paint. But even if your project isn’t super high end there is some merit in making sure your body panel gaps are good. They don’t have to be tiny like a car that would come out of Hollywood Hot Rods, Rad Rides by Troy, or Chip Foose’s shop, but that doesnt’ mean you can’t make them consistent. Consistency is the key with body panel gaps, as a wide or tight gap somewhere will look super out of place and then everyone will notice it when they take a look at your car or truck. To find out some tips and tricks on how to get your panel gaps great, watch this video with our friend Kevin Tetz. And, if you want more info on how to do great bodywork and paint, you can learn it all from his Paintucation course. Check them out at the link below. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON KEVIN’S PAINTUCATION COURSES Video Description: This is STILL a great How-To on gapping sheet-metal… Just different than our original intent. let me say, that We’ve gotten over it an learned more about the gear, and won’t make the same mistake twice… I formatted the card outside of the camera, and that’s a mistake. it was “probably” the cause of the card being corrupted and we lost hours of footage. Bummer! We’re STILL stoked about the ‪@autometaldirect‬ sheet metal almost ( with a slight shove) falling into place… We STILL got you a great episode… just not as much of it. Don’t forget to subscribe! Don’t forget to LIKE us!!! If you’re looking for videos that show you how to restore cars… go here! https://paintucationu.com/ If you’re looking for videos that show you how to restore cars… go here! https://paintucationu.com/ ‪@ViceGripGarage‬ is already split-bumper-sexy! with our ‪@AmericanPowertrain‬ drivetrain, ‪@FiTechEFImedia‬ induction and ECU, ‪@Lsxceleration‬ LS engine components installed by John Bouchard Performance, This car is going to WIN!!!! This is the last post this year…. We’ll give you a recap round up next weekend and show you what we’ve spent on this beast! Happy New Year!!! Get your “GAP IT” tool from https://strangemotion.com/shop You need one! We proudly use‪@detroitspeed‬ parts on this build! Our boost system comes from @hydratechperformance and we install it all with the help of ‪@MilwaukeeTool‬ products. @eastwoodco Makes Excellent shop equipment and supplies! Get 10% off by using TETZ10 code at ‪@eastwoodco‬ The post Bodywork 101: Fixing BAD Panel Gaps! Tightening Up Your Gaps Can Make A HUGE Difference In Your Finished Project appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

When the guys at Iron Trap Garage pick up a new project, they sometimes find themselves with stuff that most people wouldn’t try to save. They have an eye for what something can become and, because they try to build everything to be period correct, they aren’t afraid to cut things up and fix repairs or modifications that have been done over the years. It isn’t always the easy way, but it is the right way and they are good at it. In this video they are taking a drag chassis from one of their projects and fixing some pretty specific damage and mods. Take a look and let us know what you think. The post Cutting Up A Real 1932 Ford Frame? Iron Trap Garage Is Using Parts From This One To Fix Another! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage Seven – Riyadh to Wadi Ad Dawasir Stage Seven of the 2026 Dakar Rally saw Australia’s Daniel Sanders drop down the stage finishers, but extend his overall lead, in a trade-off he’s likely to be happy with, especially considering he was left to open the later stages of the course. His […] The post Sanders extends lead as Benavides wins Dakar Stage Seven appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

The IHRA announced its 2026 event and championship payouts for 2026, including three big-money specialty races.View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Rest Stage – Riyadh Having reached the halfway mark of the 2026 Dakar Rally, and with a day of rest providing a breather, we can take a look at the first week of Dakar, through which 244 entries of the original 317 have survived. That includes 93 riders, 11 in the RallyGP […] The post Dakar Week One Recap from the Rest Stage appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Tupac Shakur’s taste in cars was anything but subtle, and few vehicles capture that better than his customised 1996 Hummer H1. The four door hard top pickup, widely described as the last vehicle he ever bought before his death in September 1996, is returning to the block with Bonhams Cars at its Scottsdale sale on 23 January 2026. For hip hop and truck fans alike, it is a time capsule from the final weeks of his life and is expected to fetch up to $450,000. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Hummer Tupac Built For HimselfOn paper, it is a 1996 Hummer H1 with a 6.5 litre turbo diesel V8, four speed automatic and full time 4WD. In reality, this truck is all attitude. Tupac’s spec includes oversized off road tyres, custom wheels, heavy duty diamond plate bumpers, a front brush guard with extra lights, a 12,000 pound winch and a roof mounted spotlight. Inside, there is cream leather over a surprisingly plush cabin, upgraded audio with a period Clarion head unit and CD changer, plus a Sony navigation system and even a PA with sirens and loudspeaker. He bought it new in August 1996, roughly a month before he was shot in Las Vegas, and it was recorded in his estate as the last vehicle he purchased. That proximity to his death is a big part of why it has been treated as a rolling artefact of ’90s hip hop history ever since. This is not the first time the truck has gone under the hammer. Back in 2016 it crossed the block at RR Auction and made headlines with a six figure result. Since then it has remained low mileage, with the odometer still showing only a little over ten thousand miles. Bonhams is marketing it as a one of one slice of pop culture with factory documents, history and a clear chain of ownership, and is guiding it into the mid to high six figure range. For context, that is collector Ferrari money for what started life as a military derived off roader. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article From Desert War Rig To Silent SupertruckWhat makes this H1 even more interesting today is how different it feels from the Hummer badge now. GM has resurrected the name on an all electric, four figure horsepower supertruck; drive the new model, as we did, and you get CrabWalk, Watts to Freedom launch control and near silent torque instead of rattly diesel clatter. Tupac’s truck is the complete opposite: loud, crude, and unapologetically of its time. It is a snapshot of a very specific moment, when the original H1 and one of rap’s biggest stars were both at full volume. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

America’s Most Iconic, According to TimeFord Motor Company leadsTime magazine’s inaugural “America’s Most Iconic Companies” list, outranking renowned U.S. brands such as Apple, McDonald's, and Walmart. According to the survey, the Blue Oval not only demonstrated strong commercial success but also played a significant role in shaping American culture and society. To qualify for the ranking, companies had to be founded and headquartered in the United States, with a market presence of at least 10 years. Ford easily exceeds that requirement, having been founded in Michigan in 1903, dating back to the era of the iconic Model T. The survey results were compiled from responses by more than 10,000 members of the U.S. general population, encompassing over 100,000 individual assessments. The rankings were determined using five key evaluation criteria: High Recognition and Familiarity, Cultural Significance and Impact, Emotional Connection, Resilience, and – perhaps most notably – Americanness. Ford A Product That Became a SymbolWithout a doubt, the Ford F-150 played a major role in cementing the company's iconic status. The long-running pickup is offered in a wide range of trims designed to meet diverse customer needs, from no-nonsense workhorse configurations to high-end and off-road-focused variants. It has consistently ranked among the best-selling vehicles in the United States, with rivals such as the Chevrolet Silverado and Toyota RAV4 continuing to battle for the top spot. Speaking of Chevrolet, its parent company, General Motors, also earned a place on the list, ranking seventh, positioned between McDonald’s and Microsoft. Ford, which owns luxury subsidiary Lincoln, continues to expand its reach beyond U.S. borders as well. This includes China, where the automaker operates a joint venture with Changan Automobile to produce models specifically tailored to Chinese consumers. At the same time, the Blue Oval brand continues to invest heavily in motorsports, including its upcoming return to Formula 1, making it one of the few American-branded companies represented in the European-dominated series, alongside Haas. Cole Attisha Built for the PeopleTime explained that Ford’s success stems from its long-standing alignment with American identity, particularly through its focus on producing vehicles accessible to the mass market. The publication also noted that Ford aims to “redefine the future of mobility in the country” through continued investment in self-driving technologies and efforts to reduce electric vehicle prices amid the all-electric F-150 Lightning ending production. Bill Ford, the company's executive chair, said, “We are leveraging our position as the largest hourly auto employer in the U.S. to ensure that the future of transportation is built by American workers for everyday American families.” The top 10 brands on the “America's Most Iconic Companies 2026” list are as follows: Ford Motor CompanyAppleThe Coca-Cola CompanyWalmartAmazonMcDonald'sGeneral MotorsMicrosoftGoogleNike Ford View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Between the end of Jeep and Chrysler's burgeoning hybrid lineup, Ford in the Senate (eventually), and Kia's new EV2, things aren’t the way they were yesterday. Here, we’ll round up the biggest news stories of the last 24 hours on AutoBlog and divvy them up into bite-sized chunks that get right to the heart of the story, allowing you to go deeper if you want. Jeep's hybrids meet their end Jeep Earlier this week, eagle-eyed Jeep fans noticed that the brand’s Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid SUVs disappeared from the manufacturer’s website. Jeep said this was due to a stop-sale while it finds a remedy for a large recall affecting these models. That may have been true, but today, Stellantis (that's who owns Jeep and Chrysler) has announced the end of both brands' hybrid models. Instead, Stellantis is moving towards... hybrids. Sort of. To get the low-down, read on below. Read More: Jeep And Chrysler Hybrids Killed Off In Major Powertrain Shake-Up A mere 7 percent of new car buyers want EVs, says survey Kia Perhaps part of the reason Jeep and Chrysler are moving towards new kinds of electrified vehicles, a new survey claims to have found just 7 percent of car buyers want a fully electric vehicle. Of course, surveys are to be taken with a grain (or twenty) of salt. Deloitte, however, is a pretty massive company with the resources necessary to obtain a broader look at the market. While EV interest is trending upwards, the firm found it still lies in the single digits. Get the full breakdown below. Read More: Study: Just 7% of US Car Buyers Want an EV for Their Next Car Ford's CEO to speak on affordability in front of the Senate... eventually Will Oliver/EPA/Bloomberg via Getty Images The U.S. Senate wants to know why cars are so expensive, but Ford CEO Jim Farley doesn’t want to testify — not yet, anyway. Senator Ted Cruz planned a congressional hearing with the CEOs of the Detroit Big Three (Ford, Chevrolet, and Stellantis) on January 14, but Farley, through legal counsel, hesitated. Perhaps it has something to do with a bit of politicking - Curise and other senators shot down Ford's plan to continue EV incentives last year. The official reason was due to the CEO's busy calendar, for one, but also the CEO's concerns, citing fairness, stating it’s unfair to expect Detroit CEOs to attend and not others after Tesla CEO Elon Musk was omitted from the invite list. To get the full story, check the link below. Read More: Ford CEO Won’t Answer Senate on Why Cars Are So Expensive — Yet Take a peek at Kia's cheap new EV Kia Meet Kia’s smallest and cheapest EV yet. We say ‘yet’ because it’s called the EV2, suggesting that the South Korean automaker is leaving room for another, smaller vehicle to be introduced somewhere down the line. Regardless, Kia says the EV2 will net a best-in-class range on the WLTP cycle of up to 317 and 448 kilometers, or 197 and 278 miles, respectively, from its two battery options. To read more about Kia's new EV, check out the link below. Read More: Kia’s Smallest and Cheapest EV Debuts in 5 Flavors with Best-in-Class Range View the full article

Germany's One Way Machine takes a break from its usual fare to convert a 2001-model Harley-Davidson Softail Deuce into a chopper for the open road.Julian von Oheimb's signature style is as consistent as it is inimitable. The Harley-Davidson bobbers that roll out of his workshop, One Way Machine, are... View the full article

Two-thirds of Detroit's Big Three have just learned the hard way that over-investing in electric vehicle technology before the market is ripe for selling them — albeit in a bid to get a jump on the competition — is a multi-billion-dollar mistake. After Ford announced a whopping $5.1 billion loss from its EV business alone in 2024, General Motors has posted even worse figures, with the automaker expecting to "take a $6 billion hit as a result of its stalled electric vehicle transition," reports the Financial Times. The loss was disclosed in a regulatory filing on Wednesday, causing share prices to fall by as much as 1.9% in after-hours trading following the disclosure. Why Detroit's Big Three Are Reeling Chevrolet While it's well-known that EV demand from consumers has been steady, growth rates have fallen over the last five years, and after President Trump axed the $7,500 federal EV credit, those who could afford to buy a new EV became an even smaller minority. General Motors' EV sales fell by an eye-popping 43% between the third and fourth quarters (with a total of 169,887 EVs sold in the U.S. in all of 2025), indicating that the tax credit was a big motivator for many buyers. "With the termination of certain consumer tax incentives and the reduction in the stringency of emissions regulations, industry-wide consumer demand for EVs in North America began to slow in 2025," said GM in its filing. "As a result, GM proactively reduced EV capacity." And that's not the only reason that GM CEO Mary Barra will be sweating in shareholder meetings. Related: Porsche: "We Were Wrong" to Replace the Gas Macan with an EV The same filing revealed that General Motors recorded a $1.1 billion service charge relating to the restructuring of its business in China, where local competition has exploded over the last year. In fact, China is projected to become the world's leading auto seller for the first time ever, beating even the mighty Japan. And the pain isn't over just because a new year has started, either. More Losses Expected in 2026 Jeffrey Sauger/Chevrolet GM's filing didn't explicitly blame the EV tax credit's abolition for the company's losses, and it was similarly tactful in revealing that Trump tariffs will continue to negatively impact the business in 2026: "We expect to recognize additional material cash and non-cash charges in 2026 related to continued commercial negotiations with our supply base, which we believe will be significantly less than the EV-related charges incurred in 2025," said the filing. With Chevrolet's new Bolt EV targeting a starting price of less than $29,000 in base LT form, there's still hope for GM to make a success of its EV business. Then again, with that car's battery to be supplied by China's CATL, who knows what the future holds? View the full article

The next Cup Series star in the making is already waiting in the wings, and in stock car racing, the final two steps before the big show on Sunday are the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS) and the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) Last year, we named Connor Zilisch as our No. 1 prospect, and it should surprise no one that he went on to dominate the season as an Xfinity Series driver ...Keep readingView the full article

Volvo has just reported its annual sales for 2025 in the United States. It was a mixed bag for the Swedish brand last year, with overall sales declining by 2.9% to 121,607 vehicles. Electrified vehicle sales were down significantly, yet EVs alone increased. However, the vehicle with perhaps the most impressive achievement of the year is the XC90 three-row crossover. Despite the second-generation model having been in production for over a decade, the XC90 achieved the nameplate’s best annual sales in this country ever—going all the way back to the original model’s arrival in 2002. It's the kind of late-career sales surge we've seen with Dodge's Durango, too. Aging XC90 Platform Proves Resilient Volvo Volvo sold 40,217 XC90s in 2025, a 2% year-over-year increase. It’s the first time the XC90 managed sales of over 40,000 units in a year, surpassing the previous best figure of 39,920 sales in 2023. The second-generation XC90 originally launched in 2015, but two facelifts have kept it fresh. The most recent one, for the 2025 model year, introduced a redesigned front fascia, along with upgraded interior materials, enhanced sound-deadening materials, and a new 11.2-inch touchscreen interface. While some may have scoffed at Volvo’s decision to keep the second-gen XC90 around for so long, the strategy has clearly worked, given the record sales last year. After the XC90, Volvo sold 41,105 XC60s, a healthier 6% increase. The EX90 registered sales of 3,913 units, a massive 356% increase, while the small EX30 found 5,409 homes, up by 2,154%. A new entry-level, single-motor EX30 at the bottom of the range no double boosted sales, as did the rugged Cross Country introduced for 2026. Related: Volvo’s Secret to Success: Four Million Cars Built on One Game-Changing Platform Other Volvo Models A Mystery Volvo Volvo didn’t report sales statistics for the EX40, XC40, or V60 Cross Country. However, a quick calculation indicates that these three models combined for sales of 30,963 units. We wouldn’t be surprised if the V60 Cross Country was the slowest-selling of the lot, as wagon sales continue their unfortunate decline. Soon, Volvo won’t have a wagon on sale at all, as the V60 Cross Country will go out of production in April 2026. The V60, V90, and V90 Cross Country are all gone already, leaving the V60 Cross Country as the brand’s final longroof model in this market. The reason, as expected, is to focus on more popular SUVs—it’s the same story we’ve heard from multiple automakers over the last couple of years, with many others abandoning the wagon and sedan segments. Final ThoughtsThe XC90’s success last year is a classic case of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. For Volvo, there are undoubtedly cost savings in regularly updating the XC90, rather than engineering an all-new model from the ground up. Dodge has experienced much the same success story with the Durango, which managed its best annual sales in 20 years in 2025, despite the current generation of the Durango going on sale way back in 2010. These SUVs have defied the typical life cycle of an individual model, but both are outliers. Elsewhere in its range, Volvo said that decreasing sales of electrified models was due to the federal tax credit falling away. Navigating this challenge will be high on Volvo’s agenda for the rest of the year. View the full article

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 6 Rally Racing Action! The Saudi Desert Is Fighting Back In This 48th Running of the Dakar Rally! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Genesis did not just hand 2025 Genesis Championship winner Lee Jung-hwan a GV80 and a handshake. It built him a one-of-a-kind GV80 Black that bakes his win into the car itself, turning the brand’s dark-themed flagship SUV into a rolling trophy only one person on earth can own. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Built On The Darkest GV80 You Can BuyThe starting point is the GV80 Black, the most dramatic version of Genesis’s big SUV. It takes the already plush three-row GV80 and strips out the brightwork: grille, window trim, badges, lamp surrounds and even the radar cover are all finished in deep gloss black, with matching 20-inch wheels and a muted rear emblem. The effect is closer to a stealth luxury car than a family SUV, and it plays well with the GV80’s existing strengths. Inside, the Black theme sits on top of one of the best cabins in its class. The regular model already impresses with layered materials, a wide screen layout and neat details like knurled metal controls, as you can see in our closer look at it. In high-spec 3.5T Prestige form it feels properly upmarket in the way it rides and isolates noise, something that stands out even more once you have driven it. Lee’s car uses that Black hardware and adds personalization on top. There are no extra spoilers or power upgrades because that is not the point. The gesture here is about status and story, not lap times. A Cabin That Literally Records The Winning ScoreOpen the driver’s door and the first clue that this is not a normal GV80 Black is on the armrest: a custom metal plate engraved with the year 2025, Lee’s initials, a Genesis Championship trophy icon and the total strokes from his winning 11-under score. It is a quiet, permanent way of saying “this is the champion’s car” without shouting it across the parking lot. The personalization continues across the cabin. Headrests are finished in black Nappa leather and embroidered with the Genesis wings, “2025,” and Lee’s initials. Door sills in both rows carry bespoke engravings referencing the tournament, so every time you step in you literally cross over a reminder of the win. The rest of the interior sticks to the GV80 Black script: quilted leather, dark open-pore trim, subdued metal accents and ambient lighting tuned to highlight shapes rather than color. Taken together, it turns the SUV into a physical record of the tournament. An electrified GV80 is coming soon, with Genesis hinting that the SUV’s next step will feature a fully battery-electric version. In light of this, gifting a home-tour golf champion a truly one-of-a-kind GV80 Black feels fitting. It demonstrates that Genesis is already capable of creating bespoke builds, which will be essential if it aims to stand proudly alongside established ultra-luxury brands. View the full article

Niche ExpertsMaserati, as a brand, conjures up emotions of passion, style, performance, and flair. Typical for any Italian automaker, but Maserati is that little bit more special; it blends the performance heritage, style, and luxury into what is now essentially a niche brand. That niche in particular is style with luxury, and a new special edition model highlights those core strengths: the new Maserati Grecale Cristallo. This new special edition model was debuted by the brand in their hometown and factory, the legendary place of Modena, where Ferrari also builds its cars. The Grecale Cristallo takes inspiration from one of Europe's most famous peaks, the Dolomites. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Natural InspirationAccording to Maserati, the Dolomites are a symbol of purity, and among those peaks, they chose Monte Cristallo, "a place where matter and light meet with almost sculptural precision, creating an aesthetic defined by balance and elegance." Starting off with the exterior, the Grecale Cristallo is finished in a one-off Azzurro Aureo, a Fuoriserie color certified by a dedicated badge on the fender. According to the brand, Azzurro Aureo is a blend of hues and elements, particularly Maserati Blue, which has been tweaked to be cooler and lighter, evoking icy, snowy peaks. It was also enriched with a touch of Golden Mica, recalling the symbolic value of gold medals. Finishing off the exterior are the 21-inch diamond-cut CRIO-designed rims. Blending it all together is an interior that also blends with the alpine motif outside, starting with the premium leather Ghiaccio, a light yet elegant shade. Completing the interior is a full set of Maserati Original Accessories that add a subtle but distinct touch. View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Debuted at HomeInterestingly, this special edition is available in the Modena, Trofeo, and Folgore variants, each with its own powertrain: the 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo with either 385 or 530 horsepower, and the top-trim BEV with 550 hp. As mentioned, the Maserati Grecale Cristallo was launched at the brand's home in Modena, Italy. Specifically, at the historic factory and HQ on Viale Ciro Minotti, a place that held stage 32 of the Olympic torch relay when it went through Italy. During the launch, the first ten units were also on display. View the full article

The current BMW X6 has been around for a good few years now, but it’s still one of the German brand’s most emotive SUVs. It’s a potent performer, but it’s also got substance—so much so that a 2025 J.D. Power study rated it the most satisfying new car to own in America. The X6 isn’t cheap, though, but BMW is running lease deals on both X6 trims that are worth a look. Here’s everything you need to know. This Month’s BMW X6 Lease Deals BMW The BMW X6 M60i lease price for January is $1,319 per month over 39 months, with $8,189 due at signing. That’s for the M60i with 523 horsepower. The less powerful X6 xDrive40i can be leased from $1,059/month over the same term, with $7,039 down. The BMW X6's leasing deal is based on a $2,000 loyalty credit, applicable to customers who have owned or leased a new BMW over the last 12 months. The deal excludes tax, title, licensing, and registration costs. The mileage allowance is 32,500 miles over the lease period, with a cost of $0.30/mile applying if you exceed this. This offer is available in California until February 2, 2026, but other regions may have their own BMW X6 lease deals, so be sure to check these with your zip code on BMW’s website. If you don’t want to lease a BMW X6, you can buy one. It starts at $77,300 for the xDrive40i and goes up to $98,000 for the M60i. Related: BMW X6 Luggage Test | How much cargo space? Powertrain and Features BMW Starting at the top, the 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 in the M60i allows the big SUV to sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. All-wheel drive is standard, as is an eight-speed automatic transmission. The xDrive40i also has AWD and an eight-speed auto, but uses a 375-hp six-cylinder turbo engine instead; it can sprint to 60 in 5.2 seconds. The base X6 has 20-inch alloys, Shadowline trim, and an aerodynamic kit. The quality of interior materials is exemplary, with a Sensafin-covered dashboard, wood trim, and Sensafin seats. The driver faces BMW’s Curved Display with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen interface; at some point in the future, the X6 will likely get the iX3's newer Panoramic display. Standard features include a HiFi sound system, four-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, the Sky Lounge Panoramic Roof, and a power-adjustable steering column, to name a few. Being the top X6 model besides the X6 M, the M60i comes with even more goodies, including a Harman Kardon sound system and ventilated front seats. Final Thoughts The BMW X6 is the ideal SUV for the enthusiast who needs the extra space but doesn’t want to compromise on looks and performance by driving a box on wheels. If you can afford it, go for the wild V8 model—the V8 matches the X6's exuberant style and personality to a tee. This vehicle’s closest rival is the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, which can be leased for $1,099/month over 36 months with $8,513 down this January. The Merc’s monthly effective lease cost works out to $1,335, whereas the BMW’s (over a slightly longer lease term) is $1,528. However, the BMW has a brawny V8 and the Merc has a six-cylinder. The BMW is also quicker (0-60 in 4.2 seconds versus 4.9). This segment is less about efficiency and more about excitement and emotion, so even with its slightly higher lease cost, we’re inclined to favor the BMW. *Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle. View the full article

A quiet successWhen New York City flipped the switch on congestion pricing in early 2025, the backlash was immediate and loud. Critics warned it would punish drivers, hurt businesses, and simply push traffic into surrounding neighborhoods. One year later, the data tells a very different story. By most measurable standards, New York City’s congestion toll is working — and working better than many expected. Fewer cars in the heart of ManhattanThe congestion pricing program officially launched on Jan 5, 2025, charging most drivers a $9 fee to enter Manhattan below 60th Street between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. Motorcycles pay $4.50, while trucks and buses are charged between $14.40 and $21.60. The goal was to reduce gridlock in the city’s busiest core, and the numbers suggest it has done exactly that. Getty Images According to city and state data analyzed by the New York Times, roughly 73,000 fewer vehicles are entering the central business district each day. Over the course of a year, that adds up to about 27 million fewer car trips. While some drivers have shifted their travel to just before the toll begins in the morning or after it drops to a lower overnight rate, overall traffic volumes are well down. Traffic is moving faster — much fasterWith fewer cars clogging the streets, travel speeds have increased across the congestion zone. Average speeds rose 4.5% from 2024 to 2025, a meaningful gain in a city where even small improvements can feel dramatic. Gary Hershorn/Getty Images The biggest changes have come at major crossings. During the weekday morning commute, the Holland Tunnel is moving 51% faster than it did before the toll. The Williamsburg Bridge has seen speeds increase by about 28%. These improvements translate into shorter, more predictable commutes for drivers who still choose to travel by car. Ripple effects beyond the toll zoneOne of the early fears surrounding congestion pricing was that traffic would simply spill into nearby neighborhoods. Instead, the opposite appears to be happening. Vehicle speeds have increased slightly across the rest of New York City, and drivers report seeing fewer cars in areas well outside Manhattan. Analysis from researchers at Stanford, Yale, and Google found that roads commonly used by drivers heading toward Manhattan are also moving more efficiently. Rather than shifting congestion elsewhere, the toll seems to be reducing it overall. A boost for transit and city lifeAs driving has become more expensive, public transit has become more appealing. Subway ridership is up by roughly 300,000 trips per day, and buses in the congestion zone are traveling about 2% faster thanks to reduced traffic. MTA Financially, the program is also exceeding expectations, generating an estimated $550 million in net revenue in its first year, money earmarked for long-needed transit improvements. The quality-of-life gains are just as striking. Vehicle noise complaints in the congestion zone fell 17% compared with 2024, and the number of people seriously injured in traffic crashes dropped 9%. Quieter streets and safer roads have made lower Manhattan a noticeably calmer place to be. Final thoughtsNot everyone is happy. Some drivers say the fee has limited their willingness to visit Manhattan for appointments or events. Still, concerns that congestion pricing would hurt the local economy haven’t materialized. Visits to the congestion zone actually increased 2.4% over the past year. A year in, New York City’s congestion toll has delivered cleaner, safer, and more efficient streets — a result few cities grappling with traffic can afford to ignore. View the full article

ADX on a Steady StartThe Acura ADX is the newest member of Acura’s US lineup, rolling out last year as the brand’s entry-level crossover. Slotting under the RDX and MDX, the ADX targets customers who want to step up to a premium badge without breaking the bank. Sales for the ADX landed right in the middle – not a runaway success like the RDX or MDX, but with over 20,000 units moved in its first year, it’s earned its spot. Acura wants to keep that steady momentum as it heads into 2026. Trim Drivetrain MSRP MSRP + Destination ADX FWD $35,000 $36,450 ADX SH-AWD $37,000 $38,450 ADX A-Spec FWD $38,200 $39,650 ADX A-Spec SH-AWD $40,200 $41,650 ADX A-Spec w/ Advance FWD $42,400 $43,850 ADX A-Spec w/ Advance SH-AWD $44,400 $45,850 For 2026, Acura isn’t touching ADX pricing – except for a $100 bump in destination charges. That means the new model is basically a carbon copy when it comes to the numbers. On paper, it looks like a safe, no-surprises choice. That sounds good – until you see what’s still sitting on dealer lots. Acura The Current 2025 Inventory PricingCars.com shows over 3,800 new 2025 Acura ADX units still up for grabs nationwide. That much leftover stock usually means dealers are ready to deal, and the ADX is no exception. Base FWD models are already dipping as low as $30,998, with average discounts around $4,000. Move up to the FWD A-Spec, and you’re looking at about $6,000 off. Even the SH-AWD versions, including A-Spec trims, are showing discounts of over $5,000. The only trim holding its ground is the FWD A-Spec with Advance Package, where discounts are closer to $2,000. Everywhere else, buyers are seeing real savings off MSRP – not just on-paper incentives. Line those prices up against a 2026 ADX with nearly the same equipment, and the value gap is tough to miss. Acura What Are You Missing Out On?Opting for a 2025 ADX means skipping whatever minor tweaks Acura saved for 2026 – just a new Double Apex Blue Pearl paint option, not real mechanical or tech upgrades. No new powertrain, no big feature shakeup, and nothing structural to set the two apart. If having the latest model year matters to you, the 2026 ADX still checks that box. For everyone else, the numbers make a strong case for the leftover 2025s. With discounts deep enough to erase the “newer” badge advantage, the older model quietly turns into the smarter buy. Acura View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Tesla Owners Silicon Valley wanted to see what happens when you actually shoot a Cybertruck’s “bulletproof” glass, so they brought the truck, some serious firepower and Tesla design boss Franz von Holzhausen to Taran Tactical’s range. The twist is they did not test Tesla’s stock glass at all. Instead, the video is really a showcase for Armored CyberGlass, an aftermarket ballistic window package that finally tries to match the Cybertruck’s tank-like image. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Bulletproof Glass, But Not From TeslaIn the video, the team removes the factory Cybertruck side windows and replaces them with Armored CyberGlass units. The company sells NIJ-rated ballistic glass for the truck in multiple levels, with the main setup tested here designed to stop common handgun rounds like 9 mm while keeping the windows fully functional. The test takes place at Taran Tactical’s 20 acre private range in Simi Valley, the same facility used to train actors like Keanu Reeves and Halle Berry for John Wick style action work, with Franz von Holzhausen, Taran Butler, competitive shooter Tetiana Gaidar and gun YouTuber Colion Noir all on site. On camera, Taran Tactical’s shooters work their way up the ladder. They start with 9 mm pistols like the Pit Viper X at 07:01, a custom Glock 34 at 11:00 and the Combat Master at 11:43, then move through more TTI pistols before stepping into rifles such as the SIG MCX Spear at 21:23, an AR 10 Harbinger at 23:16 and a TR 1 Ultralight AR 15 at 24:39. Finally they hit the glass with a Barrett M82 .50 BMG at 25:42, before a windshield handgun test at 31:28. The panels star and crater, but they stay in the frame, and the windows can still be rolled up and down afterward. Related clips from the same range day show the laminate catching heavier rounds with bullets visibly lodged in the glass instead of punching through. It is a long way from the 2019 launch demo where Franz famously smashed two Armor Glass panes on stage, and you can tell he is enjoying the redemption arc. On 22 January 2026, your workspace will be downgraded to a free "Ahrefs Webmaster Tools" plan. All unverified projects will be frozen, but you’ll keep access to your verified projects.
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Site Explorer for verified websites Safety Image Vs Real-World UseThe bigger story is how this plays against the Cybertruck’s broader safety narrative. In normal trim, the truck’s glass is not rated to stop bullets, but the structure is extremely strong and Tesla has now earned a top safety score for it. Owners are also discovering that the truck can be both tough and occasionally awkward. Winter conditions have highlighted how the slabby stainless design can trap ice and slush in places you do not want it. At the same time, software keeps playing its own role in safety perception. The Armored CyberGlass video is impressive, but it does not mean every Cybertruck suddenly shrugs off bullets. What it shows is that if you are willing to spend five figures on upgraded glass, you can bring the windows up to the same drama level as the bodywork, and you can do it in a way that keeps the truck usable day to day. View the full article

A new Corvette Grand Sport has not been announced yet, but you would not know it from how hard Chevrolet is now working to hide it. After internal leaks pointed to a new LS6 V8 and a 2027 C8 Grand Sport, GM has quietly started stripping those references from its own systems, and that cleanup is only making fans more convinced the car is real. Glenn Paulina View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A New LS6 V8 Leaks Into ViewThe story started when enthusiasts spotted a new Gen 6 “LS6” V8 entry inside GM’s internal parts catalog. For a brief window, that listing showed a 6.7 liter small block with both direct and port injection, tagged for 2027 Corvette applications. Separate leaks tied that engine to a future C8 Grand Sport. On top of the catalog entry, a separate leak from dealer systems showed Grand Sport specific RPO codes, including a Z15 Heritage Package, sitting in the 2027 Corvette section. Then a development car surfaced in a now deleted video with an exhaust note that did not match any existing C8. Put together, that is more than just forum fantasy. GM Hits Delete On Its Own BreadcrumbsOnce screenshots of the LS6 listing started circulating, GM appears to have gone into damage control. Forum users who checked the same parts catalog in late December found that the entire LS6 entry had been scrubbed. One long time member joked that “the Parts Catalog Manager got reamed,” posting that “all reference to ANYTHING has been deleted” and comparing it directly to the time GM disguised the LT7 ZR1 engine in the system. Moderators were warned to “save the screenshots while you can.” That is the behavior of a company trying to stuff the genie back into the bottle. It also fits a recent pattern, as Chevrolet is already playing games with numbers on the existing C8 range. When you see an LS6 entry appear, vanish, then get joked about by insiders, it looks less like a mistake and more like a preview that got out too soon. Obviously none of this is a formal confirmation, GM can still change displacement, branding or timing before anything reaches showrooms. What these leaks and deletions do show is that a new pushrod V8 is far enough along to live inside GM’s own tools, and it is tightly connected to a 2027 C8 Grand Sport package. View the full article

Life After the $7,500 Tax CreditThe discontinuation of electric vehicle incentives—most notably the $7,500 federal tax credit that expired on September 30, 2025—has significantly reshaped automakers’ EV strategies, with Tesla even being overtaken by Chinese rival BYD in global EV sales. In response to the slowdown, California is now seeking to offset some of those losses by proposing $200 million in new EV incentives. According to a report from Reuters, California Governor Gavin Newsom is exploring plans to set aside hundreds of millions of dollars to help restore EV sales momentum in the state. California has long been regarded as the national leader in EV adoption, having become the first U.S. state to boast more public EV chargers than gasoline pumps. Tesla The Cost Barrier on Full DisplayFull details of the proposed incentive program are still scarce. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has acknowledged that it remains uncertain how much funding each qualifying EV would receive. Pricing, after all, remains one of the most critical factors in EV sales, particularly as the market still lacks a broad selection of genuinely affordable models. Most EVs currently on sale, such as the Tesla Model 3 and Ford Mustang Mach-E, are priced well above the $30,000 mark. However, more accessible options are in the pipeline, including the returning Chevrolet Bolt EV, which starts at around $28,995. Irvine-based EV manufacturer Rivian is also preparing to expand its lineup with the upcoming R2, a smaller and more affordable alternative to its R1 series that will compete directly with the Tesla Model Y. Meanwhile, startup Slate Auto has pledged to introduce electric pickup trucks priced in the mid-$20,000 range. Getty A New Push to Reignite EV DemandWhile California has not yet finalized its incentive proposal, EV sales in the U.S. experienced a notable decline in the fourth quarter of 2025—coinciding with the expiration of the federal tax credit. Rivian, for example, delivered 9,745 vehicles in Q4 2025, representing a drop of roughly 3,500 units compared to the previous quarter. At the same time, interest in internal combustion vehicles appears to be resurging, highlighted by Ram reviving the 1500 TRX, now producing 777 horsepower from its 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V8. Taken together, these developments raise questions about the pace of electrification moving forward. It remains to be seen how California’s ambitious plan to mandate 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035 will ultimately play out. Rivian View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

It was a big decision to race NHRA Pro Stock at the age of 19, and it’s certainly one that requires a healthy dose of confidence. Brandon Miller, though, doesn’t come off like a guy with a big ego. He’s authentically humble, dedicated, and grateful. Truthfully, working for his dream doesn’t leave much time for overconfidence, and more often than not, you’ll see an almost shy smile on his face as he prepares to step into his family-owned Dodge Dart. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. That observation aside, the drive to race in one of the most challenging professional categories in the sport is complemented by a quietly competitive stance with proven results. Now 22 years of age, Miller has accomplished as much or more than many of his veteran competitors by keeping his head down and honing his craft. After winning back-to-back NHRA Northeast Division championships in Top Dragster in 2021 and 2022, the Canterbury, Connecticut-based racer was the 2023 Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series world and division champion in Top Sportsman driving a naturally aspirated Chevy S-10 truck built by his father, Dave Miller. He knew right away it was a good fit as he won the first race he entered in the little truck, the division race at Cecil County Dragway. The season transpired to be his most successful to date and included going rounds at PDRA events as well as earning the Top Sportsman trophy at the NHRA Four-Wide Nationals in Charlotte. Division wins continued to stack and culminated in the pair of championship trophies. “I don’t know if I could ever top that season,” says Miller, who also claimed a second consecutive JEGS Allstars win in Top Dragster that year and was runner-up in Top Sportsman in the prestigious race held at Indianapolis Raceway Park. “That season is probably what I’m most proud of so far, but currently, the best thing is how much we’ve progressed in a short span of time in Pro Stock. We went testing a few weeks ago and ran our fastest yet, and that’s what I’m most happy with right now.” Miller’s early story of success stretched from earning the 2017 New England Dragway Jr. Drag Racing League championship at 13 to licensing in a Top Dragster on his 16th birthday. He enjoyed bracket racing and went on to score national and divisional event trophies in the Lucas Oil Series. The accolades were a road map for an ambitious competitor full of heart, and he made his Pro Stock debut in 2022 at Maple Grove Raceway behind the wheel of a car powered by a Hemi engine built by Pro Stock royalty: Roy Johnson – whose son, Allen Johnson, won the 2012 world title with his engines. Last season, a connection with Jim Yates brought an even deeper history of experience, and now the two-time Pro Stock world champion is crew chief for the team that operates under the Brandon Miller Racing banner. Nothing has been handed to young Miller; he’s worked hard for all that he has. After graduating high school, he officially joined the family business, Miller Motorsports & Autobody, where he continues to spend much of his time. His work behind the scenes and on track has been recognized and supported by partners such as K&H Construction and Joey Gun’s, both of which were featured prominently on his Pro Stock car in 2025. This past season, the balance of his racing schedule shifted more to Pro Stock. Looking toward the future, Miller plans to continue working for the dream, but that doesn’t mean turning away from sportsman racing. “We’re focused on what’s further ahead,” says Miller, who reset his career-best numbers in Gainesville at the start of the 2025 season. “We want to race Pro Stock, and I like sportsman racing and can always come back to it, but I also feel like there is no time like the present to push forward for a professional career. “I’ve been a fan of Pro Stock my whole life,” he continues. “It’s always been the end-goal, and I love the challenge of it. I’ve always looked up to racers who do well, and I strive to be as good as they are. I don’t think I’m better than anyone else, but my goal is to continue to be better and better and better. We’re getting closer-ish, and that’s what I’m excited about. That’s what makes you want more.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Brandon Miller first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Not only do you need to go fast across the desert at the Dakar Rally, but you need to know where you're going. Reading a Dakar Road Book is essential. Even at 100mph. View the full article

Freiburger and Derek are back at it, but this time it’s Derek who’s helping Freiburger, since Freiburger helped him with the Jeep Wagoneer project not long ago. These two are good together and it makes me laugh. So will they be able to make this really great deal turn into a really good running great deal? Let’s see if these two can save this Model A from being yard art. Video Description: In this episode, it’s Derek from Vice Grip Garage to the rescue as he helps me revive my bone stock 1929 Ford Model A coupe and rip its 40-horsepower engine to life! It takes some weird tips and tricks for a musclecar guy to understand the bare basics of a 97-year-old car. Coming up next, we’re gonna road trip this junk! The post FREIBURGER’S 1929 MODEL A FORD IS RESCUED! A Killer Deal That’s Going To Need Some Love, And Wrenching With Derek from Vice Grip Garage! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

You have to love the idea of Disco Dean and Kye Kelley as teammates for the 2.4 Hours of LeMullets in Florida. If you aren’t familiar with this race, it is a 2.4 hour long endurance race that is held at Cleetus McFarland’s Freedom Factory in Bradenton Florida. For the race, Cleetus invites a bunch of folks to come out and race in pretty comparable Ford Crown Victorias. Each of them is race ready when the teams arrive, with the exception of some of their own “visual customization”. So what did Kye and Dean’s car look like? And how did these two drag racers actually perform on an oval? Let’s watch and see. Video Description: Disco Dean and I made a flying trip to the Freedom Factory to race the 2.4 Hours of LeMullets and it went really well! We also finally got in touch with the Toyota winner! Thanks for watching! Be sure to Subscribe to the Channel and leave a like and comment on the video, it helps us grow! Find me on social media also! The post Here’s What Happens When Two Drag Racers Team Up To Go Racing At The 2.4 Hours of LeMullets and Do GOOD! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article