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Stärke Motor Company is launching an all-new Gen 2 Speedster, a vintage-inspired roadster that aims to deliver classic 1950s Speedster looks while keeping the everyday drivability of a modern Porsche. The concept is simple, the company takes a late-model Porsche 718 Boxster as the donor car and reworks it into a coachbuilt, retro-styled convertible that keeps the underlying chassis, powertrain, safety structure, and much of the modern interior convenience intact. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Modern Donor, A Classic ShapeStärke says the Gen 2 Speedster is built on a 2017-and-newer 718 Boxster platform, with the body developed through 3D scanning and CAD so it fits precisely over the donor’s hard points. The build is positioned as a full transformation rather than a kit, with the drivetrain, suspension, and crash structure carried over from the Porsche, and with modern safety systems like airbags and stability control intended to remain part of the finished car. Stärke also says some driver-assist features can be retained if the build keeps the original exterior mirrors. Power Options And What It CostsBecause it is based on the 718 lineup, the Gen 2 Speedster can be ordered with multiple factory Porsche engine and transmission combinations depending on the donor car. Stärke lists the 2.0-liter turbo flat-four at 300 horsepower, the 2.5-liter turbo flat-four at 350 horsepower, and the 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six at 394 horsepower, with either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed paddle-shift transmission depending on the donor configuration. Pricing is described as $135,000 for the conversion if the buyer supplies a donor vehicle, or $189,000 if Stärke sources the donor for a more turnkey purchase. The company says builds are hand-assembled in Grandview, Missouri, with timing commonly described in the six-month range, though the exact schedule depends on the customer spec. Why The Timing Is Interesting For The 718The Gen 2 Speedster arrives as Porsche’s 718 family sits at a transition point, with electrification plans raising questions about what the next Boxster and Cayman will be and what they will sound like. The engine remains part of the discussion, including debate around the iconic flat-six. Stärke is effectively selling a parallel path, giving buyers a way to lock in modern Porsche dynamics while leaning hard into nostalgia. View the full article

The Blue Oval is facing a new headache over older pickup trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened a preliminary investigation into 2015-2017 Ford F-150 trucks on 21 March 2025 due to reports of issues with 6R80 or 10R80 automatic transmissions that may unexpectedly downshift without warning or driver input. The NHTSA has now upgraded that query into a full investigation, covering 1,270,970 examples of the pickup, after more than 60 percent of surveyed owners reported problems to the NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI). While this is not yet a recall, the frequency of complaints may lead to one. The Problem Ford F-150 Owners Are Reporting Ford According to the NHTSA, affected vehicles would suddenly downshift, "often to 1st or 2nd gear," with customers surveyed saying this would happen regularly and repeatedly. Some owners have chosen to stop driving their vehicles because they worry the transmission issue could be a safety hazard, and that seems prudent, since 43 percent of consumers "reported experiencing at least one wheel lockup event, during which the rear tires locked, screeched, or skidded" during the unexpected downshift. Ford says that this issue is different from the problem associated with 2011-2014 Ford F-150s, which have already been impacted by four separate recalls, tracing the fault on 2015-2017 vehicles to degraded electrical connections within the lead frames. This degradation was allegedly caused by thermal cycling and vibration over an extended time, and as these connections degraded, the transmission range sensor's signals were being lost. NHTSA testing has revealed that the issue could also cause the transmission to shift to neutral, which could cause a change in direction if the vehicle is on an incline. More Work to Be DoneRelated: Ford’s AI Finally Does Something Useful for Real Drivers The NHTSA's ODI has now moved the investigation up to an engineering analysis, which will involve component-level testing and vehicle testing, among other evaluations, to confirm that the alleged cause of the defect has been found. This isn't the only open investigation for Ford, either, with one opened in December last year due to timing belt failure on 2015-2017 Ford Fiesta and 2015-2018 Ford Focus vehicles with a 1.0-liter engine and a manual transmission. In this case, fragments of timing belt material reportedly wear off and accumulate inside the oil pump, causing the pick-up screen to be clogged, ultimately resulting in oil starvation and engine seizure. We'll report back if and when either investigation turns into a recall. View the full article

BMW Group’s Regensburg plant is marking its 40th anniversary with a production record, highlighting how one of its longest-running European sites has scaled into a high-volume hub for the brand’s compact SUVs. BMW says the plant built 356,901 vehicles in 2025, a new annual high that also makes Regensburg its highest-volume vehicle plant in Europe. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Record Volume And What The Plant BuildsRegensburg currently produces the BMW X1 and BMW X2 on a single mixed-powertrain line, which means internal combustion, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric variants move down the same assembly flow. BMW says a vehicle leaves the line every 57 seconds, which it equates to more than 1,400 vehicles per workday across three shifts. Of the 2025 total, BMW says more than 150,000 were electrified, meaning either plug-in hybrid or battery electric. BMW also broke out model mix, saying the X1 accounted for more than 266,000 units in 2025, while the X2 made up more than 90,000. On distribution, the company says more than 55,000 vehicles stayed in Germany, more than half went to other European countries, and more than 100,000 were shipped overseas. BMW says total production since the plant opened has reached 8.7 million vehicles, and it expects to build the nine millionth vehicle at Regensburg during 2026. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Efficiency, Automation, And AI On The LineBMW is using the anniversary and record output to spotlight factory modernization. The company says plant costs have been reduced by more than a quarter since 2019 through efficiency programs. It also points to AI use in areas like paint shop surface processing and assembly quality checks, along with a cloud-based parts supply “traffic control” system aimed at stabilizing logistics in a fast-moving production environment. BMW adds that since early 2025, new vehicles can drive themselves without a driver from the assembly line to the loading area, a detail meant to signal how far internal automation has progressed beyond traditional robotics. How It Fits BMW’s Current MomentThe Regensburg story lands while BMW is working through a broader brand update that touches both production and public identity. Small changes, like the shift to a refreshed badge design, are starting to roll out across new builds. At the same time, the company is balancing high-volume SUV demand with its performance future. For buyers focused on today’s lineup, the brand’s strong SUV mix also keeps attention on pricing and monthly payments for higher-end models too. View the full article

A V12 That Looks AliveWhile car engines are typically celebrated for their performance, reliability, and sound, De Tomaso’s V12 for the P900 may be setting a new benchmark in design. The Italian marque has just unveiled its new V12, and it looks otherworldly—so much so that some have compared it to visuals straight out of the Alien movie franchise. The loudest design cue is the exhaust manifold, which De Tomaso calls the 12-to-1 exhaust. Each of the 12 cylinders channels its exhaust gases into a single cylindrical outlet that looks as if it belongs on a fighter jet. De Tomaso credits itself with designing the powertrain, while Italtecnica Engineering is said to have crafted it. The Heart of the MachineThe exhaust is routed around a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V12 producing 900 horsepower. While that output may seem to explain the P900 name, it actually refers to the car’s targeted 900-kilogram (1,984-pound) dry weight, which—on paper—undercuts the curb weight of a Mazda MX-5 Miata. The engine is rated at 900 horsepower on synthetic fuel. More notably, the V12 is capable of revving beyond 12,000 rpm, which may help explain the exhaust’s complex design, as it can contribute to a distinctive sound—particularly noteworthy among V12-powered cars such as the Pagani Zonda F and Ferrari 812. However, this layout could complicate servicing, an important consideration for any high-performance car. But for a vehicle priced at $3 million, it’s likely the least of an owner’s concerns. Aside from its mid-mounted engine, the track-only De Tomaso P900 features an intricate exterior design with a strong emphasis on aerodynamics, highlighted by massive side vents and a large rear wing. There are very few sharp corners, giving the car a rounded, fluid appearance. Built Without ApologiesOnly 18 examples are scheduled to be produced. While a V10 is also an option, it’s an encouraging sign to see De Tomaso tapping into V12 territory, especially as automakers increasingly downsize and electrify their powertrains to meet emissions regulations. Modern V12-powered cars still on sale include the Aston Martin Vanquish, Lamborghini Revuelto, and Rolls-Royce cars. What sets the P900 apart, however, is its decision to forgo turbocharging and hybridization, much like the Ferrari 12Cilindri, resulting in a more straightforward, old-school driving experience—complete with rear-wheel drive and an Xtrac sequential transmission. De Tomaso Automobili/Facebook View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Bradenton, Fla. – Drag Illustrated has announced the addition of the $25,000 Winter Series Wild Card Shootout to the Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod, further expanding race-day opportunities and reinforcing the Winter Series’ commitment to delivering the most competitive and inclusive Pro Modified program in drag racing. The new Wild Card Shootout will feature qualifiers 33 through 64, paying $15,000 to win and contested over five full rounds of eliminations on race day at Bradenton Motorsports Park. In addition to the winner’s payout, the Wild Card Shootout will pay $5,000 to the runner-up and $2,500 to the semifinalists, offering $25,000 in total payouts. The program replaces the Chicago-style shootout format previously utilized at WSOPM and represents a significant evolution in how Drag Illustrated approaches race-day competition. “With the level of competition we’re seeing right now, the margins are razor thin,” said Wes Buck, founder and promoter of Drag Illustrated. “We routinely have 70-plus cars on property, and the difference between being No. 28 and No. 38 is often a few thousandths of a second. Our goal has always been to involve as many quality race teams as possible on race day, and the Wild Card Shootout is a direct reflection of that.” Buck emphasized that the move is about more than just prize money – it’s about creating additional storylines, value, and energy throughout the weekend. “This gives us another true race within the race,” Buck said. “Five rounds, real money on the line, and a field stacked with cars that are absolutely capable of winning on any given run. I think it’s going to add a ton of intensity and excitement to race day at the World Series of Pro Mod.” The Wild Card Shootout will debut at WSOPM and is expected to become a standard component of all Drag Illustrated Winter Series events beginning with the 2026-27 season, further expanding opportunities for racers across the entire three-race series. Bradenton Motorsports Park owner Vic Alvarez echoed the importance of the program as the Winter Series continues to grow. “The Winter Series has become something special because it’s racer-focused and constantly evolving,” Alvarez said. “Adding the Wild Card Shootout is another example of Drag Illustrated and Bradenton Motorsports Park finding ways to create more opportunity, more value, and more excitement for the teams that support this series. That’s how you keep something growing and moving forward.” As the Drag Illustrated Winter Series approaches the conclusion of its second full season, Buck says the addition of the Wild Card Shootout reflects a broader mindset within the organization. “We’re incredibly proud of how far this series has come and what it’s evolved into – without question, the most competitive space in drag racing today,” Buck said. “But we’re not satisfied. Our commitment is to our racers and our fans, and we’re going to keep pushing, keep improving, and keep raising the bar every chance we get.” This story was originally published on February 2, 2026. The post $25,000 Wild Card Shootout Added to Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

2026 Biker Fest International Biker Fest 2025 attracted an impressive 265,000 attendees across the weekend, and expectations are already high for the 40th running of Biker Fest International in 2026. With only Sturgis and Daytona drawing larger crowds, Biker Fest stands as the largest motorcycle rally in Europe. Founded in 1987 within the core biker […] The post Europe’s Largest Motorcycle Rally: Biker Fest Sets Sights on 40th Anniversary in 2026 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Hennessey is marking 250 years of the United States of America with something excessive and restrained all at once. It's called the VelociRaptor 1200 F-250, and as the name indicates, it's based on a Ford F-250 Lariat with the available 6.7-liter High Output V8 Turbo Diesel engine, the highest-performing engine you can get with the truck at 500 horsepower and (and this is the important part), 1,200 lb-ft of torque from just 1,600 rpm. That's enough even for the Texan tuner, which held back on fiddling with the reliable B20, choosing instead to focus on other areas of the truck in the celebratory customization process. And Hennessey did not hold back there. VelociRaptor 1200 F-250 Debuts in Vegas Hennessey View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article The VelociRaptor 1200 will be publicly exhibited for the first time this week, from February 3-6, at the National Automobile Dealers Association Show in Las Vegas, but for those of us outside of Sin City, the truck's upgrades include the obvious lift kit (a BDS five-inch setup) with Fox 2.5 coilover shocks and remote reservoirs, complemented by 37-inch off-road tires on lightweight 18-inch wheels. Even so, some obstacles must be hit to be overcome, which is why stainless steel front and rear bumpers have been fitted. That said, Hennessey points out that there's also some shiny carbon fiber on the truck (functional vented hood and fenders, mirror caps, fender flares, and tailgate), so actually taking this truck off-road will get that stuff scratched, along with the VelociRaptor 1200 body graphics. If you do go off-road, the extra LED lighting will surely be helpful. If not, the power running boards will be appreciated. VelociRaptor 1200 F-250 Interior and Price Hennessey View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Inside, Hennessey's touch is less aggressive but grabs attention just as quickly as the bold exterior, with new upholstery blending black leather and Alcantara with red contrast stitching. There are also new floor mats from WeatherTech, and on the center armrest, a serialized plaque identifies the special edition, of which only 250 will be made, with the Stars and Stripes proudly displayed in color. What does all this cost? First, you need a Ford F-250 Lariat. If you don't already have one, a 2026 model starts at $62,735 (plus $2,595 for destination). And then you pay Hennessey $54,500. That works out to $119,830, but at least you can order it through authorized Ford dealers, and Hennessey backs the build with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty. Alternatively, you can wait for whatever supercharged F-150 Shelby is cooking up... Hennessey View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Indian Motorcycles Indian Motorcycle has formally become a stand-alone company following the completion of its acquisition by Carolwood LP from Polaris Inc., ending more than a decade of ownership under the Minnesota-based powersports group. Polaris era: revival and stabilisation Polaris acquired Indian Motorcycle in 2011, rescuing the brand from its previous ownership under Stellican and […] The post Indian Motorcycle enters new era after Polaris exit completed appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Stricter EU Regs IncomingA stricter set of emissions regulations will take effect in Europe in 2027. It's the reason why more and more electrified vehicles are being offered there, along with the discontinuation of certain engine choices. At the same time, some manufacturers are starting to adjust their large-capacity engines in order to comply. It's the reason why Honda axed the Civic Type R over in Europe, and why the (somewhat) reasonably-priced Toyota GR Yaris costs so much in France. It's even been reported that Mercedes-Benz will be dropping certain AMG models due to the new rules. As for BMW, they're adjusting by cutting power to its twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 that powers certain M Cars. BMW America is SparedStarting next month, the engine that powers the M5, M5 Touring, and XM will have its respective outputs reduced by around 40 hp. To compensate for that, BMW is tweaking the electric motors to make up the difference. So, for our European readers, the M5 and M5 Touring will still make 717 hp, and the XM retains its 738 hp rating, provided there's enough juice in the batteries. But the good news is, the American versions won't lose horsepower from the engine. That's according to BMWBlog, which recently reached out to company spokesperson Jay Hanson regarding the matter. Yes, power and torque are still the same, but there's less dependence on the electric powertrain. That also means that there will be less of a power loss when the batteries don't have much charge left. James Riswick BMW's Limited European Engine RangeIf you check out BMW's engine lineup for the European market, you'll notice that a lot of the familiar options in America are largely absent there. For example, the 30 xDrive option isn't available in the X3, leaving only the 20 xDrive and M50 as the gas options. Mind you, there are still diesels available there. The differences between the U.S and EU cars are more prominent in the 5 Series. The sole pure gas-powered ICE model sold there is the 520i, and there's no 530i or 540i present. For those who want a punchier 5 Series in Europe, they'll have to go either plug-in hybrid or diesel. You'll also notice missing engine choices in the 7 Series. Again, that's mainly due to more stringent emissions regulations in EU-market models. Another factor is high fuel prices there, which means there's little incentive to install a high-output engine unless it's in something like an M or M Performance vehicle. America, consider yourselves lucky. View the 9 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Work continues to prepare Bowman Gray Stadium for racing on Wednesday (weather-permitting). The pre-season exhibition race known as the 'Cook Out Clash' has already been postponed several days due to historic snowfall throughout North Carolina. The track itself has already been cleared of snow, but work continues in the grandstands and surrounding areas as temperatures finally punch above ...Keep readingView the full article

Nobody could have guessed back in 2001 when The Fast and the Furious came out that it would turn into a franchise spanning over two decades, but we're finally approaching the end of the saga, with the name and release date of the eleventh film recently being announced on social media by producer and star Vin Diesel. According to his Instagram post, the final movie in the series will be called Fast Forever and open in cinemas on March 17 2028. Universal, the studio behind the franchise, confirmed the news that this will be the last film in the series. What We Know About the Last Fast & Furious Film Vin Diesel's post included a screengrab of himself and Paul Walker from the first film, and the latter's return has been teased by the former on several occasions. After Walker's tragic passing in 2013, computer-generated imagery and Paul's brother, Cody, were used to complete his scenes in Furious 7, and it's presumed that CGI will again play a role, likely with the help of AI, in bringing Walker's Brian O'Conner character back to the silver screen. Teasers in the credits of the last film, Fast X, revealed that Gal Gadot's character, Gisele, will also be somehow returning to the Fast family, despite appearing to die in Fast & Furious 6. Dwayne Johnson's Hobbs character will reappear, too, and Diesel says this final movie will be a return to street racing culture. He's also confirmed that the finale will be set in Los Angeles in an effort to return the franchise to its roots. Despite that, expect the unexpected. 'Fast Forever' Has Its Work Cut Out Vin Diesel/Instagram While street racing and an LA setting are positives that may help to ground the film, the series has set certain expectations. This grand finale will undoubtedly be full of over-the-top action, and if Diesel's proclamation at the end of last year proves true, Fast Forever will even have a cameo from soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. What role he will play is unclear, but with characters being brought back to life, past films including a trip to space and cars battling a tank, and a general ignorance of normality, no possibility is too ridiculous. And with a release date more than two years away, following several delays and budget disagreements, there's plenty of time for the film to spiral out of control, for better or worse. Returning the franchise to street racing will be tough after the last film ended on a cliffhanger that involved exploding self-driving trucks, Dom driving down a dam wall, and a submarine, but we're looking forward to seeing how the franchise finds its way back. Hopefully, a trailer will arrive before we all lose interest. View the full article

The Triumph parallel twin is more than just an engine; it is the structural and aesthetic heartbeat of the cafe racer movement. When the ton-up boys of the 1950s and 60s were looking for the ultimate combination of speed and style to blast between cafes, they reached for the Triumph Bonneville and T... View the full article

(Photos by Darr Hawthorne) • Dennis Troggio’s jaw-dropping 1955 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia, built by the craftsmen at Type One Restoration, didn’t just turn heads at the Grand National Roadster Show—it owned the room, earning the 2026 Al Slonaker Memorial Award. In a field stacked with heavy hitters, Troggio’s Ghia emerged on top of 12 finalists that included a 1958 Chevrolet Corvette, a 1956 Plymouth Roadrunner, and a 1951 Studebaker Champion. Presented in honor of Al and Mary Slonaker—the visionaries who founded the Grand National Roadster Show in 1950—the Al Slonaker Memorial Award has recognized the show’s finest non-roadster since 1974. Along with the trophy, Troggio took home a $12,500 cash award from ARP Fasteners and a billet trophy that matched the build’s no-expense-spared mentality. Built over roughly four years, the Karmann Ghia was completely reengineered from the ground up. Nearly every body panel was reshaped or reimagined, including the fenders, doors, hood, and decklid. The wheel openings were modified and the quarter-panels stretched to swallow wider rubber, all while preserving the Ghia’s unmistakable silhouette. The custom dark green over olive green paint sets the tone, but it’s the details that stop you cold—custom-machined fasteners, one-off bolt heads, and brake rotors carved from solid 90-pound blocks of cast iron. Power comes from a 2.4-liter air-cooled flat-four, backed by a fortified transmission and limited-slip differential built to handle the added muscle. It’s equal parts art, engineering, and obsession—and the judges noticed. “The 76th annual Grand National Roadster Show demonstrated that the world of hot rodding and custom cars is as innovative and popular as ever,” said John Buck, owner of Rod Shows and producer of the event. “We were honored to have so many industry legends, historic cars, and groundbreaking builds fill the Fairplex this year. It was the perfect way to celebrate more than seven decades of this incredible show.” The post Al Slonaker Memorial Award To A ’55 VW At GNRS! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Kaulig Racing is set to become the anchor factory team for Ram as the Stellantis brand returns to NASCAR for the first time since the 2012 season. They will have five trucks, featuring Brenden Queen, Daniel Dye, and Justin Haley as full-time drivers. The fourth truck will feature a rotating cast of all-star drivers beginning with Tony Stewart, while the fifth truck will be awarded to the winner ...Keep readingView the full article

Here are the official results from Saturday’s Toyo Desert Challenge race, kicking off the 2026 King Of The Hammers 4-wheel events. The post KOH DESERT RACE UTV CLASS RESULTS appeared first on UTV Action Magazine. View the full article

There’s a difference between a great race and a great field. Wins come and go. Records get broken and eventually replaced. But when the margin between qualifying and going home shrinks to the point that elite teams are separated by thousandths of a second, something more meaningful is happening. That’s no longer about who won the weekend – it’s about how high the competitive ceiling of the sport has moved. That’s the conversation surrounding the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, and particularly Pro Mod at Bradenton Motorsports Park. Over the past several seasons – and especially across the first two races of the 2025-26 Winter Series – the numbers have reached a place drag racing has never been before. Not just faster. Not just deeper. But compressed to a degree that borders on absurd. Claims like that deserve proof. And when you lay the evidence out piece by piece, the conclusion becomes unavoidable. What’s happening in Pro Mod at the Winter Series isn’t just unprecedented – it’s unrivaled. 1. The Tightest Pro Mod Field Ever Assembled At the U.S. Street Nationals – Race 2 of the 2025-26 Drag Illustrated Winter Series – more than 70 Pro Mods fought for just 32 qualifying spots. When qualifying concluded, the top 32 cars were separated by just four hundredths of a second from No. 1 to the bump. Thirty-two cars. Four hundredths. An entire eliminations ladder compressed into a margin so small it’s barely visible on the time slip. Drag racing has never seen competition packed this tightly – not at this scale, not with this many legitimate race-winning teams involved, and not under a single set of conditions. 2. It Wasn’t a One-Off – It’s Been Building for Years This didn’t come out of nowhere. The competitive trajectory of the Winter Series has been climbing steadily since the World Series of Pro Mod first landed at Bradenton Motorsports Park in 2023. At that inaugural WSOPM, Mark Micke qualified No. 1 with a 3.598-second pass at more than 220 mph – the only driver in the 3.5-second range. The 32nd and final qualifying spot came at a 3.664, which at the time represented one of the deepest Pro Mod fields ever assembled. A year later, the inaugural Drag Illustrated Winter Series produced the same headlines – quickest field, tightest field, unprecedented depth. Now, two races into the 2025-26 season, those benchmarks have been eclipsed entirely. This wasn’t lightning in a bottle. It was escalation. Each season, each event, and each qualifying session has pushed the competitive ceiling higher. 3. Not Just the Tightest – the Quickest Field Ever, Period The U.S. Street Nationals produced the first-ever all 3.50-second Pro Mod field. Every car in the 32-car qualified field ran in the 3.50s. Micke’s 3.598 that qualified him No. 1 at the 2023 WSOPM wouldn’t have even made the show. Let that sink in. The bump spot came at 3.596 seconds, making it the quickest Pro Mod bump spot in history. There has never been a 16-car Pro Mod race – anywhere – with a 3.5-second bump. This was a 32-car field. Even more staggering? Five cars ran in the 3.50s and still failed to qualify. Running a 3.5x and going home is uncharted territory for this class. That single fact alone underscores how far the competitive ceiling has moved. 4. Depth That Extends Far Beyond the Bump Spot The insanity didn’t stop at No. 32. At the U.S. Street Nationals, the top 64 cars were separated by just over a tenth of a second. In practical terms, that means the difference between qualifying comfortably and loading up early was almost imperceptible – even with more than 70 elite Pro Mods on the property. At that level, qualifying isn’t about being good. It’s about being flawless. 5. It Surpasses Every Other Historical Benchmark The PDRA today represents some of the best doorslammer competition in the world. NHRA Pro Stock in the late 1990s and early 2000s? Legendary for its parity and intensity. Those eras absolutely deserve their place in drag racing history. But neither compares to what’s happening at Bradenton. Those benchmarks were built on smaller fields, larger spreads, or longer timelines. The Winter Series has combined massive entry counts, unprecedented speed, microscopic qualifying margins, and repeated escalation – all at once, all in the same place. There is no modern or historical equivalent that checks all those boxes simultaneously. 6. A Convergence of Elite Talent from Every Corner of the Sport This level of competition doesn’t happen without the drivers. Six-time NHRA Pro Stock champion Erica Enders races Pro Mod almost exclusively at the Winter Series. Spencer Hyde is a former World Series of Pro Mod champion who went on to immediate success in NHRA Funny Car, yet never let go of his Pro Mod roots. Multi-time NHRA Top Fuel champion Antron Brown and former NHRA Pro Stock world champion Bo Butner have thrown their names into the hat. Aaron Stanfield and Dallas Glenn, both NHRA Pro Stock standouts, have joined the fold. Jim Whiteley and DJ Cox bring Top Alcohol Funny Car and Dragster pedigrees into the mix. Scott Palmer – one of drag racing’s most beloved personalities and a recent IHRA Top Fuel winner – remains one of the series’ most bankable stars. Layered into that is a growing contingent from Street Outlaws: No Prep Kings, a series that has produced some of the most recognizable and battle-hardened racers in the sport. Kye Kelley, winner of the 2024 Snowbird Outlaw Nationals, is a fixture at Bradenton. Shawn “Murder Nova” Ellington continues to expand his Pro Mod presence. Racers like Robin Roberts and Scott Taylor have made the Winter Series a priority, and with persistent rumors circulating about Ryan Martin setting his sights on the World Series of Pro Mod later this month, the line between no-prep stardom and heads-up Pro Mod excellence continues to blur. Layer all of that over the established Pro Mod elite – Stevie Jackson, Jason Harris, Jimmy Taylor, Mark Micke, Jay Cox, Melanie Salemi, Ty Tutterow – and you get something exceedingly rare: true cross-disciplinary convergence at the highest level, all competing on the same surface, under the same rules, with nowhere to hide. 7. Qualifying Feels Like Eliminations At a Drag Illustrated Winter Series event, qualifying isn’t a warm-up. It’s survival. Every run matters. Every decision matters. Every mistake is punished immediately. There’s no hiding in the middle of the field and no margin for error. Drivers who routinely win elsewhere are fighting just to make the show. There may be other sports with deeper talent pools, bigger budgets, or wider television reach. But there is no form of motorsport – and arguably no form of competition, period – where this many elite competitors are compressed into such a microscopic performance window, all at the same time, on the same surface, chasing the same 32 spots. The Bottom Line The Drag Illustrated Winter Series hasn’t just raised the bar for Pro Mod drag racing. It has obliterated the old ceiling. And the World Series of Pro Mod isn’t just another race on the calendar – it’s the culmination of everything this series has been building toward. This is the new reality of Pro Mod drag racing. And it’s only happening at Bradenton. This story was originally published on February 2, 2026. The post 7 Reasons Why the Winter Series Has Rewritten the Competitive Ceiling in Drag Racing first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Legendarily NotoriousAutomotive icon status is usually given to a model or brand due to popularity, elegance, and reputation as a successful race or street car. On the other end of that spectrum are the notorious cars and brands that, while popular, aren't necessarily icons for all the right reasons. DeLorean is one such brand that mixes both the good and the bad sides of being an icon. It is rare to find a model like the DMC-12 that has the pop culture gravitas mixed with real-world horror stories. Whatever one feels about DeLorean and the DMC-12, it is undoubtedly one of the coolest cars ever conceived, and a very well-kept example has just been showcased. Genuinely PreservedThe classic car market is filled with all types of examples in various conditions of decay or pristine. Such is the weird world of automobile classics that some cars in barn-find condition fetch top dollar. However, the most sought-after condition is 'preserved,' which refers to cars that have been frozen in time in near-showroom condition, with minimal restoration. A preserved DeLorean DMC-12 has just been reintroduced to the modern world by the American Muscle Car Museum. MyClassicCarTV is a YouTube channel that focuses on... well, classics, and a few days ago posted a video featuring an immaculate DeLorean DMC-12 in all its stainless-steel glory. The car in question is a 1981 model (VIN #6775) purchased in 1982 with only 35 miles on the odometer. It has since stayed with the American Muscle Car Museum, with a still staggeringly low 187 miles since new. It retains the same unique 2.8-liter Renault-derived V6, with the shockingly low 138 hp, which begs the question as to why it has a spot in a Muscle Car Museum. The video in question was more of a test-drive showcase than anything else, and it highlighted the (first) good intentions of the DeLorean build, which was ultimately plagued by corner-cutting and backroom deals that dictated its doomed existence. In retrospect, though, the DMC-12 nailed the brief completely in terms of looks; it balances the out-of-this-world look of the future (in 80s minds) without necessarily sacrificing a rather beautiful form. The gullwing doors add the final touch of timeless cool that wins over every automotive enthusiast. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Looks Great and That's it...As nice as it is to put on the rose-tinted specs and stroll down memory lane with the DMC-12, this car is not for sale. However, for the sake of argument, if you get inspired to buy one, it must be said that the DMC-12's birth isn't the only issue it comes with; the car itself is ripe with certain faults. Many DeLorean owners report that the electronics are unreliable, the engine is severely underpowered, and, in some cases, the chassis rusts out due to poor build quality. That would be forgivable (somewhat) if parts were easy, but with a very short-lived life, only around 9,000 DMC-12's were ever built. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

There’s not much missing from Toyota’s extensive U.S. model lineup, but it doesn’t have a three-row electric SUV. That’s set to change on February 10, when the brand reveals its first Kia EV9 rival. The EV was first teased last week, showing nothing much more than a full-width rear lighting bar. But Toyota has now shown off the interior for the first time, which gives us our best look yet at the new family hauler. Airy Cabin Seats At Least Six Toyota The new interior teaser image reveals what appears to be a high-tech and spacious SUV. This example has a large glass roof and white upholstery, giving it a particularly airy look and feel. Second-row captain’s chairs with dedicated armrests should boost comfort in the back, and the third row is just about visible, too. In this configuration, it appears to seat six people, but there may be a seven-seater version too. In front, there’s a large touchscreen, possibly even bigger than the 14-inch display in the new bZ Woodland. A digital driver’s display is mounted closer to the steering wheel than the one in the two-row bZ Woodland. It looks like second-row passengers have access to their own climate controls, too. Toyota’s most comfortable three-row crossover is the Grand Highlander, so if this electric SUV matches that one’s interior, it will be a great family vehicle. Related: Toyota Has an Idea to Solve a Big EV Interior Problem No Confirmed Name Yet Toyota Toyota has not said what the new SUV will be called or shared any other details, beyond touting its “big energy” and “bigger versatility.” Its name will likely start with “bZ”, though, marking it as part of the Toyota electric bZ family. Currently, the brand has the compact bZ and midsize bZ Woodland. Considering that the bZ Woodland has dual motors, all-wheel drive, and 375 horsepower, we would not be surprised if the three-row model’s specifications match this. That should make it quicker than even the Grand Highlander with the 362-hp Hybrid Max powertrain. We do hope the range estimates are a bit better than the bZ Woodland’s maximum of 260 miles, though. Why It Matters T Any segment Toyota enters for the first time is a big deal. The Japanese marque has the brand clout to succeed almost anywhere, so this is a potentially significant threat to the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9, two of the few three-row electric SUVs outside the luxury segment. On the downside, many manufacturers are scaling back their EV plans just as Toyota is rolling out new fully electric models. This U.S.-built Toyota EV won’t benefit from the tax credit either, as that was scrapped at the end of September 2025. Looking at a rival like the EV9, its sales declined by 31.6% last year, despite it still being a fairly fresh product. Furthermore, Toyota’s first modern EV, the bZ (previously bZ4X), hasn’t exactly been a sales hit. So, while the new SUV has a few odds stacked against it, we wouldn’t bet against Toyota generating significant interest in the electric three-row family-hauler segment. Related: Toyota Is Charging $5,000 More Than Subaru for the Same EV View the full article

Devin Vanderhoof is ready to unleash his latest drag-and-drive monster. "Reddi Whip" is one sick twin turbo S550 Mustang. View the full article

GT-R Godfather: As Nissan Faces Financial Pressure, e-Power Is Still About Driving Feel Nissan enters its next technology cycle under financial strain, amid cost cuts, restructuring, and uneven global performance. Still, as e-Power readies for the U.S., the company is positioning it as more than a survival move. Speaking at the 2026 Philippine Nissan Festival, Hiroshi Tamura, longtime chief product specialist of the Nissan GT-R R35, said e-Power was engineered around the same principle that defined the GT-R: controlled, confidence-building acceleration. Tamura is direct about where driving excitement comes from. It is not peak output. It is how torque is delivered. During the R35’s development, Nissan relied on electronic boost control to shape acceleration. Boost was never released all at once. It was built progressively, so the driver always knew what was coming. Tamura says e-Power applies that same logic, replacing turbo boost control with electric motor and inverter management. Leroy Marion/Autoblog e-Power Is Not a Conventional HybridNissan e-Power works fundamentally differently from the hybrids most American buyers know. The gasoline engine never drives the wheels. It only generates electricity. The electric motor alone provides propulsion. That architecture allows Nissan to manage acceleration entirely through software and electronics. Tamura says the link between the R35 GT-R and Nissan’s e-Power isn’t peak output, but how torque is delivered. “The R35 GT-R’s boost control is fully electronic. Peak power is easy to make, but what matters is how torque rises. It must come smoothly, not suddenly, but still be strong." The GT-R’s fully electronic boost control prioritized smooth, progressive torque over big peak numbers, using smaller turbos for stronger low-speed response and consistent acceleration. "That same philosophy applies to e-Power. Electronics allow us to shape power delivery so acceleration is controllable, especially in low-speed regions. The turbo on the R35 was never the biggest—we focused on usable torque and dynamic feel." Leroy Marion/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Shared Engineering DNA With the GT-RThe connection between e-Power and the GT-R is not philosophical alone. The system was originally developed under drivetrain chief Naoki Nakada, who also contributed to the VR28DETT. "He was thinking about this philosophy during our R35 development. In both cases, Nissan focused on early torque, predictable delivery, and controllability across different driving conditions." Nissan has already rolled out e-Power overseas in models like the Nissan Rogue and Nissan Kicks, though the system has yet to reach the U.S. Tamura sees it as a bridge between EVs and combustion. He supports electrification, but believes performance cars should remain fuel-powered. “This is a very important idea, DNA and philosophy again. GT-R engineers think of power like this. It’s very natural and emotional,” he said, adding that it is “not like the ‘T’ companies or some Americans”—a pointed dig at Toyota and more conventional U.S. hybrid systems. Leroy Marion/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Recall That Started ItIn December 2021, Mitsubishi issued a recall for the 2022 Outlander due to hoods fluttering at higher speeds. The root cause was the lack of reinforcements at the trailing edge of the panel. As the vehicle picks up speed, air being sucked into the engine bay flutters the hood, increasing the risk of it opening while in motion. The solution was to replace the hood with one that included extra reinforcement in the form of a pair of head bolts at the latch. A new weather strip was also included in the recall fix. However, affected customers were not happy with Mitsubishi's solution. Mitsubishi The LawsuitSome affected customers claimed that the hoods still fluttered at speed. At the same time, there were those who claimed that the replacement hoods they received did not match the color of the vehicle. Per the class-action lawsuit, the fix "did not entirely eliminate the Hood Defect." The affected owners have also mentioned that their Outlanders have taken a significant hit in fuel economy due to the turbulence under the hood. Mitsubishi has since denied that the panels are defective. Years after the class-action suit was launched, a settlement has been reached, although it seems that those who filed it won't be getting much out of it. NHTSA/Mitsubishi The SettlementFor all the trouble, the owners will be getting another hood replacement if the problem persists. And if you were expecting more 'reparations' of sorts, that's basically what the plaintiffs got. That said, Mitsubishi is giving affected customers a warranty extension for the second hood replacement. Per Car Complaints, the warranty extension is valid for 18 months if the hood was replaced within the last 18 months. For those with hoods replaced over 18 months ago, the warranty is valid for six months. Mitsubishi The Real WinnersAfter all that, some of the plaintiffs will receive $5,000 each, while others will get that amount collectively. Granted, the repair is free, but surely, representation costs were much more than that. Speaking of which, it's the lawyers who get the big payout here. According to the settlement, the lawyers who represented the plaintiffs will receive a whopping $1,750,000, presumably collectively. But before all that money is handed out, a fairness hearing will be held on August 3, 2026. Mitsubishi View the full article

Liberty Walk Corvette: Built to Back Up the LookThe Chevrolet Corvette C8 is no longer viewed solely as an American value-performance car. The mid-engine layout gives it global credibility. The proportions, cooling layout, and chassis balance place it in the same conversation as established supercars. That foundation matters when extreme customization enters the picture. American enthusiasts have long celebrated Japanese performance cars and tuning culture. The exchange is now moving in the opposite direction. American cars, especially the Corvette C8, are gaining real traction in Japan, with even Toyota offering to sell GM as well as Ford vehicles locally. It is being embraced as a serious platform, not as a curiosity. Its performance gives builders confidence that bold exterior modifications are supported by real capability. Liberty Walk Liberty Walk LB-Silhouette WORKS: Exclusivity Is the PointThe Liberty Walk LB-Silhouette WORKS complete body kit elevates the Corvette C8's design. The kit includes a front bumper, side diffusers, rear bumper, rear wing, and wide body fenders for the front and rear. The design is aggressive and intentional. Nothing about it is subtle. The widened fenders dramatically increase the car’s footprint. Exposed fasteners highlight the motorsport influence. The oversized rear wing and diffuser dominate the rear view. The kit costs $19,580 in Fiber Reinforced Polymer and $21,780 in Carbon Fiber. That price makes the body kit alone more expensive than a new Chevrolet Trax. Exclusivity does not come cheap, and Liberty Walk makes that clear. Liberty Walk World's Most Demanding Car CultureThe Corvette C8’s growing popularity in Japan signals a shift in how American performance cars are perceived. This is a market that values engineering, balance, and execution. The C8 meets those expectations. That is why Japanese builders are willing to invest in it. The Liberty Walk treatment works because the car underneath can support it. The C8 delivers performance to match its most extreme visual statements. This is not style without substance. It is an American car gaining credibility in one of the world's most demanding automotive cultures. Liberty Walk View the full article

MV Agusta's Rush Titanio is said to be the purest form of the brand's naked superbike philosophy, and it's hard to argue against that point. View the full article

Tesla is showing its robotaxi strategy as a complete operating model rather than a single futuristic car, with the key idea being that revenue scales with paid miles and high utilization, not with how many passengers fit in each vehicle. The argument is that most real trips are small, so Tesla can optimize its dedicated robotaxi hardware for the most common use case, then cover edge cases with other vehicles already in its lineup. Getty View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Why Tesla Thinks Passenger Count Is Not The PointTesla executives have pointed to trip data showing that the vast majority of vehicle miles are traveled with two or fewer occupants, which is the logic behind designing a dedicated two-seat robotaxi that is smaller, cheaper to build, and easier to keep in service. Under this view, the winning metric is how often the car is earning, how quickly it can be cleaned and turned around, and how reliably it can operate, because those factors determine cost per mile and fleet throughput more than cabin capacity does. A two-seat design is also positioned as a way to reduce complexity and parts, which can matter at robotaxi scale where downtime is expensive. Sawyer Merritt/X A Three Vehicle Robotaxi Stack Rather Than One CarTesla’s model is being described as a stack of vehicles that collectively cover demand, with Model Y as the flexible option for riders who need more seats, the Cybercab as the default robotaxi for everyday trips, and a higher-capacity Robovan style vehicle to handle groups and bulkier loads. The point is not that every vehicle can do every trip, but that the fleet as a whole can match supply to the ride request without forcing the standard robotaxi to be oversized for the typical job. It also aligns with Tesla’s broader product positioning, where high-volume, simpler vehicles tend to carry the strategy. What Has To Be True For This To WorkThis model depends on autonomy actually reaching a level where vehicles can operate with minimal human involvement, because utilization is the core of the math. It also depends on Tesla keeping costs low enough that a two-seat robotaxi can profitably undercut conventional ride hailing on many routes while still maintaining margins after cleaning, maintenance, insurance, and support operations. The company is making the case that a focused robotaxi platform plus existing vehicles is a faster path than building a single do-everything robotaxi, especially as it juggles other lineup questions. Even small changes that reduce friction for owners and operators matter in this worldview. View the full article

Custom CanvasThere are certain models that everyone loves to modify, and aftermarket parts are popular for them. One of those models is the Suzuki Jimny, a highly iconic kei car/mini off-roader and a favorite for a wide range of mods. A common modification to the Jimny is a full-body makeover kit, which usually transforms its appearance. Famous kits include one that mimics a Land Rover Defender, and even a G-Wagon. Cut from the same cloth is a new kit making waves in Japan, inspired by another legendary off-road nameplate – the Land Cruiser 70 Series. Suzuki 70YO.70 DestroyerThis Suzuki Jimny features a body kit that makes it look like a Land Cruiser Series 70. The kit's name is interesting: 70YO.70. From a distance, it looks like "Toyota," a simple visual cue. It was done as a collaboration between Japanese Specialists Jimny Land and another local tuner group, Garage III. Most Jimny 'homage' versions stop at a simple grille conversion; this takes it a step further by adding other crucial look elements. At first glance, it may look like a simple body kit, and the truth is it is, but there are some subtle changes that show up upon closer inspection. First is the more pronounced hood that's accompanied by badges on the side that say "70YO.70 Destroyer." Next is the addition of the hood-mounted rear-view mirror and the bumper that comes from the Sierra Jimny variant. The front lighting systems have been reshaped to more closely resemble the Series 70 LC. Since the Jimny already pays tribute to a more retro look, most of the bodywork remains the same for the Destroyer kit; however, to further honor the homage, a few additional accessories are added. There are additional vents on the bodywork, a new set of taillights, and even a faux AdBlue cover, alluding to the diesel engine of the Series 70, despite the Jimny being gasoline-powered. We can also see that the normal range includes off-road features such as snorkels, all-terrain tires, suspension lift kits, and off-road rims. Fully Built and Ready to RockUsually, kits like these are placed on showcase vehicles to generate interest and raise awareness. But Jimny Land has already decided to build a few examples that are currently for sale. It appears there are three models available for new owners: Sand Beige, White, and Black. The listed price for the Sand Beige is approximately $28,000. As far as Jimny kits go, this one seems well thought out and, in fact, the least in-your-face of the ones we listed above. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article