reporter

Derek, David, and a Jeep Wagoneer, sounds like a party! I know David has a ton of experience making old crappy Jeeps run, but most of the time they aren’t powered by Buick’s Dauntless V8. I still have faith that between him and Derek they can make anything run and drive if it is possible. Derek doesn’t know what the word quit means, and David has been doing this long enough to not be phased by much either. Plus they’re both smart asses, so it should be a riot. Watch and enjoy. The post Derek Bieri And David Freiburger Are Attempting To Drive 1,800 MILES HOME In A BUICK POWERED Jeep Wagoneer! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Stage 2 action, highlights, and more are below! If you missed the previous video, use the link below. 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 2 Racing Action From The Harsh Conditions of Dakar 2026. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Ever look at an old car and wonder about its history? Every car has a story to tell, but sometimes that story is a mystery. Either the previous owner with the knowledge sold the car, or they have passed away, taking that story with them. We love mysteries and cars with stories, so when we come across a cool car that’s been sitting around a long time, we turn into some kind of automotive version of Sherlock Holmes and start investigating. Scott over at Rebeldryver’s Garage found an interesting car to investigate. It’s a 1970 Chevelle SS 396, at least that what he thinks it is. Scott is also wondering if it is the rare for 1970 L78 396. He starts his own investigation to try to piece together this Chevelle’s story. Video description: We found this 1970 Chevelle SS 396 languishing in Oklahoma. It’s going to get a full restoration. But, we were debating whether this is one of the rare L78 375 HP 396’s built for 1970. The ’70 LS6 454’s got all the press, but these monsters were far more rare in 1970, only 2,144 built, because it was discontinued early in the production year. Could this be one of those rare L78 396’s? Or, is it the far more common L34 360 HP 396? Do you have other ideas? Let me know. The post Rebeldryver’s Garage Investigates A 1970 Chevelle SS 396 To Discover It’s Story And Whether It’s A Rare L78 396 appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We already told you that BANGshifter extraordinaire Joe Grippo was at it again this New Year’s Day for Maple Grove Raceway’s annual New Year’s No Prep where they run both frontside and backside no prep races. And we shared his video from the frontside races already, but here is the backside racing action video from Joe. If you missed the frontside race video, use the link below to check it out too. The action is always fun, and the folks from the northeast who don’t care if it is cold, as long as they can race, are thrilled to death to be tearing it up at Maple Grove. Track temp is always one of the things people talk about at drag races. If it’s hot outside, everyone is talking about how high the track temp is and that it is hard to get down when it’s really hot out. On the flip side, in the winter there are often folks talking about how the track temp is too low so cars won’t get down. And in a prepped scenario, the temp really does effect the traction compound. So if low 50’s start making track prep specialists nervous, you have to imagine that below freezing would be insane. So how is it in No Prep conditions at these low temps? Watch to find out. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED THE FRONT SIDE RACING ACTION The post 2026 New Year’s Backside No Prep Drag Racing at Maple Grove Raceway! They Ain’t Scared Of No Cold! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The V12 LS based engine that Dave Kindig spec’d for the Kindig-It Designs built TwelveAir Ridler Winning Corvette project turned heads, just like the first ones folks saw nearly a decade ago when Race Cast Engineering out of Australia first debuted them in Las Vegas at the SEMA Show. I mean who doesn’t love an LS based engine anyway, but when you add four more cylinders to the thing it just gets better and better. And despite Race Cast starting to build these things years ago, you just don’t see many of them, which makes them super special and cool. So watch the video below as Dave’s Engines in Utah take this new stack of parts and gives them the love and attention needed to be a perfect runner, and one worthy of a car like this. Video Description: In this video, we take you through the precision machining, blueprinting, and final assembly of a V12 engine built for Dave Kindig. We show you the detailed process of measuring, refining, and dialing everything in to make it as good as it can possibly be. From clearances to final assembly, this is what it takes to build a V12 the right way. The post Dave’s Engines Built a Custom V12 LS Engine for DAVE KINDIG And Here’s How The Whole Thing Goes Together. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Truly scratch built cars are a rarity nowadays, regardless of what some high end builders want you to believe. Bespoke might be the trendy word, but there are differences in levels of design, fabrication, and build quality. And if you have a completely custom 1969 Camaro built, most shops, even the most high end, are going to start with a 1969 Camaro or with a reproduction body. That doesn’t mean they won’t massage each and every part, or that some parts might not be reproduced from scratch, but usually it is not the entire car. And before you start jumping up and down, throwing out your favorite car builder’s name to say that they are actually doing everything from scratch, I’m not talking about the exceptions, I’m talking about the majority. So when you do see a builder starting from scratch it is pretty impressive. When you see cars being built from scratch, with no machine shop, no CNC machines, and no massive press, it is something to behold. When you find out that the guys building these cars have never actually seen a real one in person, it makes the whole thing even more interesting. To be clear, there are lots of things happening in this video that I see happening in shops all over the country, and the world, but there is something different about the entirety of this project. Are these the most high end cars ever built? Nope. Are these ultra high dollar builds? Expensive, yes, but we know many builders who charge way more. The fact that these craftsman are using mostly low tech tools, and are learning on the job, is impressive. And the cars are cool and so are the people. So check it out and let us know what you think. Video Description: The term handmade gets thrown around a lot these days. In a world of near total automation, it’s nice to slow things down and appreciate the craftsmanship that once went into high end car manufacturing. Nestled on the side streets of Bali, Indonesia, is a custom car builder called Tuksedo Studio, where they create a variety of cars, notably the Mercedes 300SL, Toyota 2000GT, Porsche 356 Speedster, and Aston Martin DB4. See how these masterpieces are crafted as Larry Chen gives you a behind the scenes look. The post ONLY Five Cars A Year, 100% Handmade, Tuksedo Garage Builds New Icons | Capturing Car Culture With Larry Chen appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Greg Anderson continues to find ways to win in Pro Stock. We talk with Anderson about his career and future in the class.View the full article

I just got back from riding all the 2026 Triumph Bonnevilles, and the Speedmaster's new seat really makes it stand out from the crowd.View the full article

Modern problems require modern solutionsThe steering wheel has been the command center of every car for a very long time. For much of the history of cars, it has been the one constant in automotive interior design; the piece of hardware that connects humans to their machine, drivers to the road. Here’s the thing: as self-driving technology evolves, robotaxis and autonomous vehicles become more of a reality, the traditional steering wheel starts to become less of an essential tool and more like an awkward instrument in your way. Although this technology is becoming increasingly prevalent, we’re not yet living in a fully autonomous world, which has created an interesting problem. Some people still want the option to drive manually, whether for fun, safety, or simply because certain roads and conditions aren’t quite ready for Level 4 automation. Autoliv View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Enter the folding wheelAutoliv and Tensor just answered that dilemma with something straight out of a concept car: the world’s first foldable steering wheel for production autonomous vehicles. This breakthrough technology will debut in the Tensor Robocar, which is expected to begin production in the second half of 2026. The idea is very simple: it is a steering wheel that retracts when you don’t need it. In typical operation, the Robocar can be driven like a conventional car with traditional controls like your everyday commuter. However, when the Tensor switches to Level 4 mode, the steering wheel retracts to clear the driver's area, creating a spacious and flexible cabin that can adapt to whatever you need. It “reimagines the cabin as a multifunctional space,” whether you're working, relaxing, or enjoying the ride. What makes the system more clever is that the in-car safety systems also adapt, whether it is in traditional, “manual” driving, or in Level 4 autonomous mode. Autoliv, the global leader in automotive safety systems and co-developer of the folding wheel, reimagined how airbags function in a dual-mode vehicle. When the steering wheel is retracted in autonomous mode, a passenger airbag integrated into the instrument panel is enabled. However, while in “manual” driving mode, the airbag located within the steering wheel is used. Both configurations deliver equally high levels of protection in a crash, ensuring safety isn’t compromised regardless of which mode you’re using. “Automotive safety can no longer follow a one-size-fits-all philosophy,” Fabien Dumont, Autoliv’s Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer, explained. “We asked ourselves how to make safety intelligent and adaptive—creating a system that seamlessly aligns with the driver’s needs.” In a statement, Jay Xiao, CEO of Tensor, emphasized the practical benefits of this dual-mode approach, specifically that while full self-driving technology can be exciting, some drivers will opt to take the wheel. He adds that his latest invention with Autoliv not only provides adopters the freedom to choose, but pushes the envelope in new vehicle design. Tensor “Fully self-driving technology provides a groundbreaking user experience, but manual driving in certain scenarios is still desired by many people. Our dual-mode approach with a foldable steering wheel combines the best of both worlds and gives customers the freedom to choose,” said Jay Xiao, CEO of Tensor. “Foldable steering wheels previously existed only in concept cars—now we are bringing this innovation to volume-production vehicles for everyday use.” This new tech will be used in Lyft's next robotaxisThis new, innovative tech is coming to Tensor’s Robocar; the first personally-owned autonomous vehicle to be “Lyft-ready” from the factory. Not only will regular, everyday people be able to hail rides piloted by driverless vehicles, but the public will also be able to own the very autonomous cars that’ll be doing the driving. In short, by owning a Tensor Robocar, you would not only be able to use it to shuttle you, your family, and your friends around on day-to-day activities, but you’ll be able to put it to work as a hailable Lyft vehicle and earn money for you during extended periods of time when you’re not in it. In a statement at the time, Jeremy Bird, Executive Vice President of Driver Experience at Lyft, noted that this would overcome the human element needed to earn on its platform. “Lyft has created opportunities for millions of people to earn on the platform, but right now, one of the last barriers to rideshare is time — you have to physically be in your vehicle to give rides and earn,” Bird said. “What’s exciting about Tensor is they’re advancing the opportunity that Lyft already creates, removing that final obstacle while reinforcing our vision of a hybrid transportation future.” Final thoughtsIn a statement from both Autoliv and Tensor, their partnership represents more than just clever engineering, as it is “a broader vision where leadership in automotive safety extends beyond crash performance to encompass intelligent, user-centric design.” All in all, these companies are setting a new standard for how in-car safety systems can adapt and enhance the overall driving experience (or passenger experience). The Tensor Robocar is set to launch later this year in the U.S., European, and Middle Eastern markets, marking a significant milestone in how we think about car interiors as a whole. This is some futuristic concept from The Jetsons; a future of cars where in-car technology doesn’t just drive for us, but can physically transform and adapt around us.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ View the full article

View the full article

More buyers are paying $1K+ on monthly payments than ever before, says EdmundsAccording to new data highlighting significant trends in new-car financing from the car-buying authorities at Edmunds, American buyers are shelling out more each month to finance their new set of wheels. The car-buying experts reported that new-car buyers who committed to monthly payments of $1,000 or more reached a record high during Q4 2025, comprising a whopping 20.3% of all financed new-vehicle purchases during the quarter, up from 19.1% in Q3 2025 and 18.9% in Q4 2024. On average, Edmunds found that the actual monthly payments buyers are making on their financed new-vehicle purchases are significantly lower. However, they are at the highest levels they have ever recorded; at $772 in Q4 2025, an incremental increase from $754 in Q3 2025 and $754 in Q4 2024. Eva Marie Uzcategui/Bloomberg via Getty Images High vehicle MSRPs and interest rates are influencing these trendsDirectly influencing these trends is the high price of new vehicles. According to the latest figures from Cox Automotive and Kelley Blue Book, the average transaction price (ATP) of a new car in the U.S. hovered at $$49,814in November, a figure reflecting a 1.3% year-over-year increase and heavily influenced by buying patterns "from affluent households." The average loan amount written rose to a record high of $43,759 in Q4 2025, up significantly from $42,647 in the previous quarter and $42,113 in the same quarter last year (Q4 2025). To make matters worse, a high APR likely accompanies these loans, as the average percentage dipped slightly to 6.7% in Q4 2025, down from 7% in Q3 2025 and 6.8% in Q4 2024; still near historically high levels. Edmunds analysts state that Q4 2025 wasn’t friendly to buyers in terms of automakers offering promotional sales rates. Just 3.1% of new-vehicle loans were signed at the coveted 0% rate, which is down from 3.3% in Q3 2025 but up slightly from 2.4% during the same quarter the previous year. In addition, they also report that 84-month or longer loans made up 20.8% of financed new-car purchases, slightly down from 22% in Q3 2025. Edmunds analysts note that while it is above the 17.9% share seen in Q4 2024, it underscores consumers’ continued reliance on extended loan terms as an affordability tool. David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images In a statement, Ivan Drury, Edmunds’ director of insights, noted that these figures "underscored just how challenging 2025 was for car shoppers," as they navigated a complex landscape of affordability challenges, including high MSRPs and interest rates. Furthermore, Drury says that these behaviors, where buyers finance more expensive vehicles over more extended periods with four-figure monthly payments, "reflect the financial strain many buyers faced throughout the year." Drury states that these could have a dramatic influence on the auto market going into 2026. “Entering 2026, many of the affordability pressures that defined 2025 are still in place, including elevated new-vehicle prices and ongoing economic uncertainty,” Drury said. Average Quarterly New-Car Finance Data (Edmunds) Term (Months) 69.6 68.8 70.1 Monthly Payment $772 $754 $754 Amount Financed $43,759 $42,113 $42,647 APR (%) 6.7 6.8 7 Down Payment $6,228 $6,856 $6,020 Final thoughtsEdmunds experts also observed that used-car buyers aren't exempt from this phenomenon, as those who committed to $ 1,000 or more in monthly payments also reached a new record during Q4 2025. They state that 6.3% of used-car buyers took on these massive monthly payments, up slightly from 6.1% during the previous quarter (Q3 2025) and 5.4% during the same quarter during the previous year (Q4 2024). Although these conditions are exacerbated by ballooning new-car MSRPs and average transaction prices, Ivan Drury believes that "there are early signs of rebalancing ahead" of the new year, which could translate to positive signs for car buyers of all stripes. "[...] New-vehicle prices remain high but are beginning to stabilize, lower interest rates could offer some relief for both new- and used-vehicle shoppers, and an increase in off-lease returns is expected to provide more affordable alternatives in the used market." View the full article

Craig McMartin Interview reflecting on ASBK 2025 A former front-line racer turned championship-winning team owner, Craig McMartin has steadily built one of the most formidable operations in the ASBK paddock. With Josh Waters securing his fifth Australian Superbike Championship, the McMartin Racing Ducati squad once again proved that a tight-knit team with clear direction can […] The post Craig McMartin: The architect behind Ducati’s ASBK dominance appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Motorex reaches 191 world titles in 2025 For over a century, Motorex has been obsessively devoted to producing premium, motorcycle specific oils and lubricants. What started as a small operation has morphed into an undeniable global force in motorsport and now Motorex products are trusted to keep multi-million-dollar factory racing programs running at peak performance. […] The post Motorex: Swiss precision meets 191 titles and championship success appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Few factory motorcycles have ever managed to tap into the well of nostalgia with the same precision and panache as the Ducati SportClassic series. Released in 2005, the family of bikes—including the Sport 1000, GT 1000, and the legendary Limited Edition was the brainchild of designer Pierre Terblanc... View the full article

Legacy Motor Club has made some personnel changes ahead of the 2026 NASCAR Cup season. They have named Justin Alexander as the new crew chief for Erik Jones and the No. 43 LMC Toyota Camry XSE, replacing Ben Beshore in the role. Alexander has plenty of experience atop the pit box, winning five races with Austin Dillon at Richard Childress Racing, including the 2017 Coca Cola 600 and the 2018 ...Keep readingView the full article

A 2016 McLaren 675LT Spider with a full orange-and-blue Gulf-style livery and barely more than 2,000 miles on the clock is going back under the hammer at Mecum Kissimmee 2026. It is one of 500 675LT Spiders built, finished by McLaren Special Operations and previously sold as part of the Bob Patrella Collection. Now it is returning to the block with a price guide that reflects just how hot rare, low-mile McLarens have become. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Gulf Colors, Longtail IntentThe car uses McLaren’s 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8, rated at 675 PS and sending power to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The LT part of the name is earned through lighter weight, more downforce and sharper suspension tuning than a 650S Spider, backed by the fixed rear wing, deeper front splitter and extended tail section. McLaren quotes 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds and a top speed north of 200 mph. Visually, this example leans hard into racing heritage. The MSO paint mimics classic Gulf race colors, with blue bodywork, orange striping and matching orange wheels. It is a modern take on a look purists still associate with simpler, lighter cars from the 1990s. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article A Low-Mile Spider In A Hot McLaren MarketThis car’s story helps explain its estimate. It has only about 2,000 miles on the odometer, has already been through a high-profile sale, and carries a distinctive spec that stands out even in a packed supercar field. The last time it crossed a Mecum stage, it sold in the mid six figures. Since then, values for rare McLarens have kept rising. You can see that in the way ultra-low-mile F1s trade. The 675LT Spider is not in that league, but it benefits from the same halo. As the F1 climbs, all the serious “driver” McLarens look more attractive by comparison. A Fixed Point As McLaren’s Future ShiftsThe other reason this Gulf 675LT Spider feels important is timing. McLaren is moving toward a broader lineup that will soon include its first SUV, a plug-in model with a hybrid V8 aimed at high-margin daily use rather than track days. As that arrives, the LT family starts to look more like the last pure expression of what McLaren used to be: mid-engine, lightweight, single-purpose supercars. View the full article

Norway has just done something no other country has managed: it ended 2025 with 95.9% of all new passenger cars registered as fully electric, a figure even officials round up to “96% of the new car market.” December was closer to 98% EV share, making combustion a statistical rounding error rather than a real segment. Norway’s EV Tipping PointNew-car registrations jumped roughly 40% versus 2024 as buyers rushed to beat stiffer EV taxes that arrive in 2026. That surge pushed total sales to around 180,000 cars, and nearly all of them were battery-electric. Plug-in hybrids have faded into the background; the market has essentially gone straight from gas and diesel to full EVs. Policy mix-ups are behind it with steep purchase taxes on combustion cars, generous exemptions for EVs, cheaper tolls and ferries, plus abundant home and public charging. After years of that pressure, Norway effectively hit its long-standing goal of ending fossil new-car sales by 2025. At the same time, the government is now dialing back the generosity by adding some VAT to pricey EVs, which is why so many buyers pulled the trigger before year’s end. It’s also happening at a moment when the rest of the world is still deciding how far and how fast to push. Automakers are lining up fresh metal for 2026, from mass-market crossovers to high-end flagships, and a lot of what’s coming looks directly aimed at buyers in cold, EV-dense markets like Norway. You can already see the next wave in our preview of the new EVs we’re most excited about in 2026. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Tesla Rides The Last Big Incentive WaveNo brand benefited more from Norway’s final pre-tax rush than Tesla. It was the country’s best-selling marque for the fifth year running, with a market share of about 19% and more than 27,000 new Teslas registered. The Model Y was the star, effectively becoming the default family car in a place that used to be dominated by diesel wagons and compact crossovers. Tesla’s momentum is striking because it comes as the company faces softer demand elsewhere in Europe. In Norway, though, the combination of strong incentives, dense Supercharger coverage and years of familiarity made the brand a safe bet when buyers knew the tax rules were about to tighten. Chinese-built EVs are also growing fast, but Tesla remains the reference point for everything from pricing to charging expectations. Norwegian buyers are also acutely aware that EVs have to survive real winters. Range loss, traction and heating performance matter more at −10°C than they do on a mild California freeway. That is why cars that perform well in snow and cold stand out. The more interesting question now is what Norway does with all this stored energy on wheels. With EVs now outnumbering diesels in the total passenger-car fleet, the country is in a good position to explore vehicle-to-grid projects at scale. If other markets follow the same trajectory, there is real potential for parked EVs to become part of the energy system rather than just a load on it. View the full article

The specs of Donut Lab's solid-state battery are impressive. As are those in the first application, Verge's TS Pro EV motorcycle. But the bike crowd needs a lot more convincing.View the full article

Not Your Usual UrusOne of the ultra-rare Lamborghinis of the modern era, the Urus Performante Essenza SCV12 Edition, is listed for sale on duPont Registry. If the nameplate doesn’t ring a bell, that’s entirely understandable. This special-edition Urus was offered exclusively to the 40 owners of the Essenza SCV12, effectively making any broader marketing effort unnecessary. Derived from the Aventador platform, the Essenza SCV12 is a track-only hypercar introduced in 2020. It uses the same 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12, tuned to produce 830 horsepower. The Italian marque later translated that extreme, motorsport-inspired identity into the Urus Performante Essenza SCV12 Edition, offering its 40 owners a street-legal, Essenza-inspired vehicle. Compared to the $2.5-million track-only hypercar, the SUV provides greater everyday usability for public roads, while still benefiting from a more accommodating cabin thanks to the Urus’ SUV platform. duPont Registry on Facebook A Nod to a MasterpieceThis particular example has registered 7,687 miles on the odometer and is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8. The engine shares its core architecture with models such as the Audi RS Q8 and the third-generation Porsche Cayenne, though Lamborghini applies its own calibration. Carrying the Performante badge, the powertrain is tuned to deliver 657 horsepower. As standard, the SUV employs an all-wheel-drive system paired with an 8-speed ZF 8HP automatic transmission. The real appeal of this limited-edition variant, however, lies in its visual enhancements. Finished in Nero Helene Metallic, the exterior is fitted with an exposed carbon-fiber widebody kit supplied by 1016 Industries, along with custom black forged 24-inch wheels. Inside, the black-themed cabin pays direct homage to the track-only hypercar, featuring Essenza SCV12 logos on the dashboard and door sills. duPont Registry on Facebook Designed for the Inner CircleWhile duPont Registry has not publicly listed a price for this Urus Performante Essenza SCV12 Edition, the company notes that the vehicle is one of just seven examples allocated to the U.S. market. Interested buyers are encouraged to visit the luxury automotive marketplace’s website to request additional details. For reference, Lamborghini currently offers the Urus S with a starting price of around $240,000. The Urus – which competes with rivals such as the Ferrari Purosangue and the Aston Martin DBX – is also available in plug-in hybrid form. That electrified variant adds an electric motor to the mix, boosting total system output to 789 horsepower. duPont Registry on Facebook View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

If you’re planning on gliding into the new year behind the wheel of a luxury crossover, you can do worse than consider the BMW X3. The latest model has picked up where the old one left off, remaining one of BMW’s best-selling models alongside the larger X5. It’s comfortable, sporty, and high-tech. There are only two X3 trims available right now, but BMW is running lease deals on both for the month of January. Here’s a look at how much you’ll pay to lease one of BMW’s X3 luxury crossovers. Related: BMW X3 Generations Overview: From Ugly Duckling To Best-Seller This Month’s BMW X3 Lease Deals BMW The BMW X3’s lease price for this month starts at $599 per month over 39 months, with $5,239 due at signing. This deal applies to the base X3 30 xDrive variant, the only four-cylinder model in the lineup. The deal is based on qualifying for a $1,000 loyalty credit, applicable to customers who have owned or leased a BMW over the last 12 months. BMW includes 32,500 miles for the duration of the lease, with a fee of $0.25/mile for every additional mile over this limit. Not included are tax, title, licensing, and registration costs. The only other X3 on sale is the much more powerful M50, and its power advantage is reflected in its price. This BMW X3’s leasing offer is $789/month with $5,889 due at signing. Both these BMW X3 lease deals are applicable to California, so be sure to check BMW’s X3 lease offers with your zip code for potentially different deals in your area. If you’d rather purchase a new X3, it’ll cost you at least $51,300 for the X3 30 xDrive, increasing to $66,500 for the X3 M50 xDrive. Both models can also be financed at 1.99% APR for up to 60 months. Related: The 2026 BMW X3 Has Just Two Trims, But Only One Is The Smart Buy Powertrains and Features BMW The base BMW X3 has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 255 horsepower. The quick eight-speed automatic and all-wheel-drive grip enable a six-second 0-60 time, so it’s far from slow. One step up is the M50 with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo mill. It also has an eight-speed auto and AWD, but the 0-60 time is down to only 4.4 seconds, thanks to 393 hp. The base model has all the essentials equipped as standard. It comes with 19-inch alloy wheels, Veganza imitation leather upholstery, BMW’s Curved Display (with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen), dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated front seats. The sporty M50 is distinguished by larger 20-inch wheels and Shadowline exterior trim. Under the skin, the more powerful engine is complemented by an M Sport differential, an adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes with blue calipers. Front sport seats that hold you in place more firmly form part of the M50’s interior upgrades, as well as the unique trim inserts of this derivative. Final ThoughtsThe X3 is perfectly positioned in the middle of BMW’s lineup. It’s not nearly as expensive as the larger X5 and X7, but distances itself from the smaller X1 with available six-cylinder power and greater refinement. It was a bit cheaper to lease the X3 last month ($569 over 39 months for the base model), but December is often associated with some of the year’s best deals. If you’re after something a bit more luxurious, the equivalent Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4Matic is a little cheaper to lease this month ($569/month over 36 months with $5,203 down). However, the X3 has the edge for driving enjoyment, so keep that in mind if you’re after a more spirited commute. View the full article

The Boxster Before the BoxsterIt may not have the same reverence as the 911, but the 914 has its place in Porsche history. Built as a spiritual successor to the 912 and Volkswagen Karmann Ghia Type 34, the 914 was actually a contractual obligation of Porsche from Volkswagen as part of an agreement that dated back to the prior's founding. The result was the company's first mass-market mid-engined car, predating the Boxster by about 25 years before Porsche revisited the idea. It proved a decent seller, with over 100,000 made from 1969 to 1976. And while there isn't much fanfare surrounding it, we wouldn't call it an unloved model. That said, it didn't help that it barely wheezed out 100 horsepower from its flat-four and flat-six engines. Bring a Trailer A Fun PlatformBut its underrated status helps keep values relatively sane. Neatly restored and well-loved survivors fetch for about $30,000, but one can find tidy examples for under $10,000. With prices starting that low, it could be said that anyone looking for a reasonably-priced project car won't feel too bad about hacking one up for, say, an engine swap. The idea of swapping a punchier engine in the 914 has been around since, well, the 914 began. We've seen flat-sixes from the 911 being bolted on, as well as LS V8s, and Subaru EJ swaps. There's no shortage of aftermarket support, either, and you won't be hounded by purists for modifying it. See? Getting a classic Porsche that isn't a 911 has its perks. Bring a Trailer Check This One OutOne can go mild or wild in restomodding a 914. Take this particular example from Bring a Trailer. Its targa roof has been deleted and turned into a proper roadster. It also benefits from disc brakes on all four corners, along with a healthy dose of suspension upgrades. On top of that is a modern but period-looking audio unit, and the fenders have been fattened up because, well, why not? But the meat of this restomod is a 2.2-liter flat-six from a 911 from about the same era. Okay, it's not mentioned if it came from a 911T, 911E, or 911S, but it surely made more power than the 2.0-liter mill from the original 914/6. For reference, the most powerful trim (914/6 SC) made 109 hp on a good day. The 2.2-liter flat-six from a 911T put out 125hp, a decent 16 hp more than the 2.0-liter. Mind you, the engine wasn't left untouched. It was fully rebuilt with dual Weber carburetors and a Perma-Tune electronic ignition system. A custom exhaust is also part of the package, although the five-speed manual transmission appears stock. Bring a Trailer Worth More Modded?Unless it's a one-owner, low-mile example, 914 prices have been largely attainable. That said, we saw cars in the $40,000 to $60,000 mark that have had their engines swapped and extensively modified. Does this mean 914s are worth more modded than stock? It appears to be the case, especially if it's neatly done. This 2.2-swapped example is a relative bargain by all means, then. At the time of writing, it stands at just $10,914 with three days of bidding remaining.. So, if there's anyone in the market for a quirky and offbeat project, this might be right up your alley. Bring a Trailer View the 9 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Independent No MoreAfter 60 years of free reign, Alpina enters a new chapter under BMW’s wing. Established in 1965 by Burkard Bovensiepen, the company became an independent automaker in 1983 but has always had close ties with Munich. It will be interesting to see where the brand goes from here, and we're keeping our fingers crossed that Bavaria keeps the essence of Alpina. But what exactly defines an Alpina? Well, there have been several examples per decade that answer that. That said, narrowing its most definitive and significant models down is a monumental task, but it's safe to say that it's cars that balance luxury and performance right in the middle instead of going all out like the M Division. Alpina Genesis: From A1/3 to B7 TurboAlpina started by making the 1800 models quicker by upfitting them with modified Weber carburators in a dual setup, and later on, making go-fast parts for the 02 series and 3.0 CS. But Alpina’s turning point would happen in 1975 with the A1/3. It was a standalone model of sorts rather than a lightly tuned E21 3 Series, boasting performance enhancements that laid the groundwork for the company. Several E21-based models followed, along with E12-based cars. One noteworthy model was the B7 Turbo from the late ’70s. With 300hp from its 3.0-liter straight-six, it was one of the fastest sedans of its era with a 0-60 mph time in about six seconds. Alpina then applied the same trick to the E24 6 Series to create the B7 Turbo Coupe, as well as the E23 7 Series. True IndependenceBy 1983, Alpina had become recognized by the German Federal Ministry of Transport as an automaker. Just in time, too, as the E30 3 Series had just come out the year prior. The first Alpina-fied E30 was the C1/2, based on the 323i, and would be succeeded by models like the C2 2.5, C2 2.7, and B3 2.8. There were also more extreme (but still cushy) models introduced, namely the B6 3.5 and 3.5 S, the latter being based on the M3 of the time. Of course, the 5 Series got its fair share of attention, in both E28 and E34 guises. The E28 B7 Turbo and E34 B10 Biturbo models were particular highlights, the latter actually being more powerful than BMW’s own M5. Of course, the company continued building hotted-up 6 Series and 7 Series models. Nicest of the ’90sA new decade meant a whole slew of redesigned BMWs. Alpina wasted no time applying its magic to those cars, either. Starting with the E36 3 Series, things started off mildly with the B6 2.8. Succeeding that was the B3 3.0 and B3 3.2, which both punched out more horses than the American M3, and it was topped off by the insane B8 4.6. The B8 4.6 shoehorned an M60 motor in the E36's slim engine bay, something that BMW themselves said was impossible. Oh, and it was also available as a Touring wagon. For the E39 5 Series, Alpina gave the 528i power levels that matched the 540i with the B10 3.2 and B10 3.3. Of course, the main attractions of the Alpina E39 range were the V8 models. It was kicked off by the B10 V8, then the B10 V8 S towards the end of E39 production. As for the E38 7 Series, there was the B11 for the V8-powered 735i and 740i, and B12 for, you guessed it, the V12 750i/750iL. The 6 Series was gone even before the ‘90s began, but that didn’t stop Alpina from having a little fun with the E31 8 Series. Alpina went straight for the 850i V12 for the B12 5.0 Coupe, then upped the ante with the 850CSi-based B12 5.7 Coupe. Yes, They Made Roadsters TooDon't think that we forgot about the roadsters that Alpina made. Granted, it wasn't the brand's bread and butter, but the few it produced are certainly worth a mention. Alpina's first open-top car was the Z1 RLE, short for Roadster Limited Edition, and it was, indeed, a limited-run model with just 66 made. It would take another decade before the brand made another one, this time based on the Z8 as the Roadster V8. It was then followed by the E85 Z4-based Roadster S that curiously used the same engine block as the American E36 M3 but tuned to make about 300 hp. Into the New Millennium and to the PresentIn the E46 3 Series front, there was the B3 3.3, B3 3.3 Allrad (all-wheel drive), and B3 S that offered near-M3 levels of performance in a more practical sedan or wagon form. Of course, succeeding 3 Series models followed the same pattern, gaining more performance with each generation. The same went for the 5 Series and 7 Series-based cars. Europe fell in love with diesels in the 2000s, and Alpina jumped into that wave, too. It started with the E39 D10 Biturbo, and then with the E90/91 D3 and D3 Biturbo, which was also offered as a coupe. From that point onwards, the company would build high-performance diesels until 2025. Of course, Alpina wasn't blind to the rise of crossovers, either. Its first performance SUV came in the form of the F25 XD3 Biturbo, which was then succeeded by the G01 XD3. Curiously, the company never made an X5-based derivative, but it filled in for the performance derivative of the X7 with the XB7. So, what's next for the brand? By the looks of it, it could become the bridge between BMW M and Rolls-Royce. It's already been rumored that a new 7 Series-based model is coming soon, and not every BMW model will get the Alpina treatment. It seems that the new Alpina will focus more on the larger BMW platforms in its new chapter. Bespoke models are also possible down the line. Cautiously optimistic would be a good pair of words to describe the acquisition, and hopefully, Alpina won’t just be a trim in the future. Alpina View the 25 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Lexus has not yet reported detailed sales figures for the 2025 calendar year, but the luxury automaker looks set to shatter more records. Lexus expects sales to have exceeded 360,000 units by the time all the numbers are tallied up, and it’s mostly thanks to soaring demand for the brand’s SUVs. That figure would mark a roughly 5% increase over 2024, which was already the brand’s best year in its 35-year history. Unfortunately, there’s a downside, with buyers facing lengthy waiting times for certain models as demand outstrips supply. Lexus Inventories Far Below Industry Average Lexus According to CBT News, inventories for some Lexus models fell to less than three days’ supply across the country in late December. That’s in stark contrast to the overall new-vehicle inventory of 88 days reported by Cox Automotive in November, prior to the holiday season. Even back then, though, Lexus was also struggling with inventory levels that were trailing rivals like Infiniti, Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. These tight inventories mean that many buyers will be forced to wait several months for a new model. Many are paying the sticker price to secure vehicles, while others are shopping beyond their immediate areas in an effort to find the vehicle they’re after. Over 80% of Lexus sales are now SUVs or crossovers, and models like the RX, GX, and three-row TX are hugely popular. Across the first three quarters of 2025, Lexus had already sold over 80,000 RXs and nearly 40,000 TXs. The GX, which entered a new generation for the 2024 model year, had sold over 28,000 units across the first three quarters of 2025. An SUV For Every Need Lexus currently has seven SUVs on sale, starting with the subcompact UX and going all the way up to the imposing LX. The midsize RX remains the brand’s bread and butter, followed by the cheaper and smaller NX. Hybrids have also bolstered the appeal of multiple Lexus SUVs. The UX is only available with a hybrid powertrain, while the 2026 NX moved to a heavily hybrid-centric lineup a few months ago. The LX, for years powered by a thirsty V8, is now available with a twin-turbo V6 hybrid with 457 horsepower, so neither performance nor efficiency need to be sacrificed. Related: Lexus Tops 2025 Satisfaction Rankings as BMW and Tesla Slide Final ThoughtsLexus is ticking all the right boxes for Americans right now. Aging models like the previous GX and LX have been completely revamped in recent years, while the SUV range has further embraced hybrids, an in-demand powertrain choice currently. Lexus also has the RZ, its sole electric SUV that has become a lot cheaper since it was first launched. Toyota must now push hard to increase production capacity of models like the GX and TX. Until that happens, many buyers will need to be patient if ordering a new Lexus SUV. View the full article

A Small Start That Made a Big ImpactWhen Honda launched the first Civic in the early 1970s, it was a practical solution to global fuel and emissions challenges. Compact, light, and fuel-efficient, it quickly earned a reputation for reliability and smart engineering. The Civic stood out for its simplicity and well-thought-out design, appealing to everyday drivers who valued efficiency over flash. That balance between practicality and performance became central to Honda’s brand identity, influencing models for decades, from daily commuters to performance variants like the Civic Type R. That same focus on function and refinement defines this 1974 Honda Civic restomod, recently featured by Larry Chen on YouTube after debuting at the Japanese Classic Car Show in Southern California. The project reimagines what the Civic might look like today if Honda had continuously updated the original model with modern technology and materials. Rather than chasing extreme power or style, the build emphasizes subtle evolution, bringing 1970s simplicity into a 21st-century context while keeping the character that made the Civic iconic. Modern Engineering, Classic FeelThe build is powered by a K20A Type R engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. Producing about 230 horsepower, nearly five times the output of the original engine, it transforms the Civic’s performance without compromising its balance. To fit the new powertrain, the builder widened and reinforced the engine bay, integrating a custom cradle that supports the steering rack, suspension mounts, and load-bearing points. The modifications make the car stronger, more responsive, and capable of handling modern power levels while maintaining the engineering precision Honda is known for. Underneath, nearly every component has been upgraded. Custom control arms, Prelude hubs, and RSX axles improve durability and geometry, while BC Racing coilovers and Wilwood four-piston brakes enhance handling and stopping power. The underbody has been reinforced and detailed for longevity. The updates make the car drive and feel like a new vehicle rather than a modified classic. The engineering focus was less about building a show car and more about creating something that feels like a genuine continuation of Honda’s original design approach. YouTube: @LarryChenPhoto View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Design in the DetailsOn the outside, the restomod keeps the Civic’s familiar shape but refines it with modern touches. Hand-formed steel bumpers finished in tungsten Cerakote sit closer to the body, while a 3D-printed grille and flush taillights clean up the design. Subtle spoilers add aerodynamic stability without changing the car’s classic proportions. Finished in Grand Prix White, a nod to Honda’s racing history, the vehicle looks understated and modernized without losing its identity. Inside, the updates follow the same restrained approach. Euro R Recaro seats are reupholstered in houndstooth-pattern leather with tan accents, giving the interior a vintage feel with modern comfort. The dashboard retains its original shape but integrates a Haltech IC-7 digital display styled like factory gauges. Custom 3D-printed switches hide new electronics while keeping the layout period-correct. Finishing details like a mahogany shift knob, Porsche-sourced shift boot, and Momo steering wheel add quality without excess. YouTube: @LarryChenPhoto View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article YouTube: @LarryChenPhoto View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Dodge Vipers are among the most visceral performance cars ever sold, especially the early examples that predate traction control, stability systems, and any real safety net. They were loud, crude, and built for fun. Yet, owners still love modifying them. Usually, that means more power, forced induction, or aero tweaks. However, this 2001 Viper RT/10 listed on Cars and Bids turns itself into a proper American muscle car. Its original V10 and manual transmission have been removed entirely, replaced by a supercharged Hellcat Redeye V8 and a three-speed automatic built with one goal in mind: going very fast in a straight line. We've seen some wild Hellcat swaps, but Throtl got real creative with this one – and it's selling for less than a Nissan Versa Built For the Strip, Not the Street Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Power comes from a 6.2-liter Hellcat crate engine, originally rated at 797 hp and 707 lb-ft of torque in factory form. This setup goes further, adding upgraded fueling, a smaller supercharger pulley, and extensive cooling upgrades. While no dyno sheet is provided, the seller claims the car runs the 1/8 mile in the high five to low six-second range. That performance explains the TH400 three-speed automatic, a transmission chosen for durability and consistency rather than driver involvement. The rest of the car follows the same logic. Penske Racing coilovers, drag-focused brakes, and lightweight wheels all support the car’s single-minded purpose. Exterior deletions like fog lights and windshield wipers reinforce that this Viper is not meant to be a street car. Much like obscure modified Challengers that end up as convertibles or a Hemi-swapped Jeep Renegade, this build exists because someone wanted to see if it could be done, not because it made practical sense. When a Viper Has an Identity Crisis Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids In many ways, this car barely qualifies as a Viper anymore. It has 8 cylinders instead of 10, forced induction instead of natural aspiration, and an automatic transmission where a heavy clutch pedal once lived. Although its raw and unhinged character still lives on, it's a different type of crazy – one that's more serious and calculated. That cabin follows suit with a Sparco steering wheel and custom center console, but the execution is rough around the edges. It prioritizes function over finish, and it shows. No Reserve Performance Bargain Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids With no reserve and bidding still under $20,000 with a day left on the auction, this Hellcat-swapped Viper is a fascinating proposition. It is not historically correct, not particularly refined, and not street-legal. If you're looking for something sensible, look away. This V8-swapped Viper is a one-of-a-kind drag machine, and that's all it is, and it costs less than the cheapest new car on sale. Whether you see it as sacrilege or brilliance is beside the point. Builds like this are why enthusiast car culture stays interesting. View the full article