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Lately, there have been numerous instances of vehicles catching fire, from Hyundai Tucsons to BMW X3s, and, of course, Tesla EVs. Now, a recall published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that there's a potential fire risk for owners of 2022-2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB crossovers. Specifically, the issue concerns the 2023 EQB 250 and the 2022-2023 EQB 300 4MATIC and EQB 350 4MATIC. What initially appeared to be a China-only problem has now reached American vehicles, thanks to "variations during an early-stage production period of the supplier," among other potential influencing factors. Mercedes-Benz EQB's Problem Began Two Years Ago Mercedes-Benz According to the NHTSA recall report, Mercedes-Benz first received reports of fire incidents in 2023 and into 2024. At the time, the incidents all occurred outside the U.S., impacting Chinese-market vehicles. After months of investigations, the automaker still could not rule out the possibility that the combination of factors leading to "thermal events" (fire) in affected vehicles may not occur in other environments, so to avoid any risk, Mercedes conducted a worldwide recall in January 2025. But after field action began globally in April, Mercedes received additional reports of fires the following month, again outside the U.S. — though that would change soon enough. Related: Meet the Cheap Amphibious Mercedes You've Never Heard Of Because these fires took place partly in vehicles that weren't part of the original recall, more investigations followed, which determined that "influences from the supplier production process" affected the cell robustness of these vehicles. Then, in January 2025, Mercedes-Benz's American arm inspected two vehicles that were impacted by the problem, determining that some EQBs in the U.S. need a fix. Again, it appears that Mercedes is acting out of an abundance of caution, as the fault hasn't been deemed serious or urgent enough to warrant a Do Not Drive warning. What to Do If Your EQB is Recalled Mercedes-Benz Vehicles produced from July 31, 2024, onwards do not suffer from the same problem, but for those manufactured before then, Mercedes dealers (which have already received recall notifications) will update the battery management software. That means it can't be addressed with an over-the-air update. In the meantime, owners are advised not to charge beyond 80% and can expect a notification of the recall campaign before January 16, 2026. Speaking of 2026, Mercedes won't be keeping the EQB around in the U.S. or Canada after the 2025 model year, though it's effectively undergoing a name change, as the EQB's spirit will live on in the all-new GLB, which will now be offered in all-electric and gas hybrid variants. View the full article

Well, we thought that the news about Heartland Park Topeka would be the last big IHRA announcement of 2025, but they squeaked another one in under the wire with a New Year’s Eve announcement that they have also just bought Rockingham Speedway! “The Rock” has been a huge part of American oval track racing and is one of the most iconic tracks in North Carolina, and that’s saying something. So what does this purchase mean? Read the full announcement below to see what IHRA and Rockingham Speedway have in store for 2026. Here’s the full announcement from IHRA. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE IHRA Purchases Rockingham Speedway and Long-Term Vision for “The Rock” FAIRFIELD, OH — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced the purchase of Rockingham Speedway, one of the most iconic and storied venues in American motorsports. The move reflects IHRA’s commitment to preserving motorsports heritage while thoughtfully reinvesting in legendary racing properties. Known worldwide as The Rock, Rockingham Speedway has played a pivotal role in NASCAR and American racing history for decades and remains deeply tied to the identity and pride of the City of Rockingham and Richmond County. “IHRA recognizes what Rockingham Speedway means to this community and to motorsports fans around the world,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA. “This is a special place with a strong foundation. Our goal is to be good stewards of the facility, respect its history, and work collaboratively to bring quality racing and entertainment back to The Rock.” IHRA intends to restore Rockingham Speedway to its former glory while enhancing the venue as a multi-use destination. Planned improvements include facility upgrades, expanded fan amenities, and the addition of entertainment elements such as concerts and festival-style experiences alongside marquee racing events. The Easter weekend NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series event will build on the momentum generated in 2025, when the series’ return to Rockingham delivered strong attendance, national television exposure, and renewed excitement around the historic track. The April weekend is expected to feature a full slate of on-track activity, including the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series and ARCA Menards Series West, and fan-focused programming throughout the holiday weekend. More information and advance sale tickets for that weekend can be found at www.racetherock.com and www.trackenterprises.com. As IHRA looks ahead, the organization anticipates collaborating with experienced event partners as part of its long-term planning for the facility. IHRA leadership noted that conversations are underway with respected industry operators, including Bob Sargent and Track Enterprises, as Rockingham Speedway is positioned for future events and opportunities beginning in 2026. “For decades, The Rock has been one of our community’s most recognizable and celebrated tourism icons,” said Meghann Lambeth, Executive Director of the Richmond County Tourism Development Authority. “We’re proud to continue supporting Rockingham Speedway as it draws visitors to Rockin’ Richmond County under the new ownership of the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA).” IHRA leadership emphasized that Rockingham Speedway will play a meaningful role in the organization’s broader strategy of revitalizing historic motorsports venues while creating sustainable, fan-focused experiences. “This isn’t about changing what made Rockingham special,” Cuttell added. “It’s about investing in it, taking care of it, and making sure it continues to be a place where great racing and great memories are made.” Additional announcements regarding the Easter weekend event, facility enhancements, and future schedules will be released in the coming months. The post More Big IHRA Moves: IHRA Purchases Rockingham Speedway and Shares Long-Term Vision for “The Rock”! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

I know everyone likes to bash on electric vehicles, and I’m clearly not the market they are aiming for, but there is something kind of cool about guys doing EV swaps on certain rides. Sure, I love my horsepower, but a fun little classic cruiser like this Mercury Comet wagon doesn’t need much to be a fun little ride. And I could certainly see putting my 75 year old mom behind the wheel of something like this. She’d never have to do anything but plug it in at home and then cruise around town. Never another gas station, just something fun to bop around town in. What do you think? Like it? Don’t care? Hate it? Comment below. Video Description: This video is the highly condensed and abridged version of all 12 videos I made for this project. There was SO MUCH that I had to leave out. You’ll have to watch all the build videos if you want more. The post If You Could EV Swap An Old Ride For Cheap, Would You? This Mercury Comet Had One Donor Vehicle And Cost Less Than $6,000 appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

On the whole, the 2025 NASCAR season was a memorable one for a lot of reasons. There was pretty good competition on the big tracks during the summer months, continued progress on short tracks with the fourth year NextGen and the culmination of a 15-month legal process that made it all the way to trial. Kyle Larson emerged the champion for the second time in his career, while the entire ...Keep readingView the full article

Rockingham Speedway has a new owner, again. This time, it's the IHRA that has stepped in to acquire 'The Rock' with plans to preserving the once-abandoned facility. The IHRA is bankrolled by owner Darryl H. Cuttel, who also owns the Ohio-based Darana Hybrid electrical-mechanical contractor, which does work for Elon Musk companies such as xAI, Tesla, and SpaceX. Over the past year, Cuttel ...Keep readingView the full article

Monster Energy Honda HRC – Dakar 2026 Preview With the Dakar Rally 2026 edition kicking off in just a few days, the Monster Energy Honda HRC team has given us a glimpse into the mindset of their four riders, as they prepare for the most challenging event on the World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) calendar. The […] The post Monster Energy Honda HRC ready for Dakar full send appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Hybrids are taking center stage againHonda is no stranger to hybrids. Its current lineup consists of four hybrids and a fuel-cell EV, which we’ll give it credit for as a hybrid. Recently, the company announced “next-generation technologies” it planned to launch through 2030, and hybrid tech took center stage. Like most automakers, Honda seemed bullish on EVs, but now it’s focusing on hybrids. Ford recently made a similar pivot, reducing its focus on electrified vehicles and eyeing more hybrids across its lineup. It’s a unique turn of events at two automakers that have almost nothing to do with one another. So why are Ford and now Honda placing so much emphasis on hybrids when electrification was their designated path not too long ago? Honda What Honda has plannedIn a recent workshop, Honda announced three things: its platform for next-generation hybrids, hybrid-electric technology for large hybrids in North America, and further details on the tech it plans for a future compact EV. Of these three, the large-size hybrid system is particularly fascinating. Honda says, “as market demand for HEV models continues to grow, Honda positions its HEV models, especially the next-generation models scheduled to go on sale in 2027 and beyond, as a core group of products which will play a key role during the transitional period leading up to the full-fledged popularization of HEVs…especially in the North American market.” Honda is developing a new hybrid system with improved towing capacity and environmental performance, along with a newly developed V6 engine. It hopes to improve fuel efficiency by roughly 30 percent compared to ICE-only models in the same segment. Full-throttle acceleration will also improve 10 percent, Honda hopes, with battery-assist features. For its midsize hybrid-electric vehicle (HEV) platform, Honda has reduced the overall weight by nearly 200 pounds and tweaked frame rigidity to improve driving stability. In short, the center of mass of the frame will be more rigid, allowing the body to flex a bit more at the wheel wells, which Honda hopes will make its HEVs more fun to drive. The new platform also enables more parts commonality across the lineup, which will make production more efficient. Honda aims to have 60 percent of its parts shared across its vehicle lineup with this new platform. Why hybrids are suddenly cool againThe move to EVs was sudden; some automakers cannonballed into EVs, and others took a more pragmatic approach. Honda and Ford were more pragmatic but bullish on EVs once they entered the fray. The Honda Prologue has been well-received, the Ford Mustang Mach-E was considered groundbreaking at launch, and the Ford F-150 Lightning was almost immediately the best-selling EV truck on the market. Ford’s pivot to hybrids was driven by an EV market that didn’t meet its expectations. Honda isn’t so publicly bold about why it’s focusing on hybrid tech for the last half of this decade, but perhaps the Prologue didn’t sell as well as Honda would have liked. Now, both are pointing to hybrids as a focal point for what’s next. Both companies offered hybrids before fully electrified vehicles, so the underlying platforms are in place and ready to be improved. Cole Attisha Final thoughtsThe EV market is in a downturn, as is the broader auto market. Sales of new cars and SUVs are slow as economic struggles continue and interest rates remain high. Automakers have to turn profits, or at least explain why they’re not. Ford’s plan for its most recent poor quarterly performance was to turn to hybrids, and it seems Honda is following suit. Though Honda’s announcement for its pivot to “more hybrids” arrived before its most recent earnings call, it’s worth noting that in its earnings report, the Japanese automaker's net profit was down 37 percent in the first half of 2025. The automaker is also forecasting a profit of 300 billion yen for 2025, which is down 64 percent from last year. View the full article

The newest MINI sets the standardMINI wears many hats in the automotive industry. It’s arguably the most fun vehicle to drive, and is absolutely the BMW Group’s entry-level brand. Being entry-level doesn’t mean MINIs are cheap, but its latest offering will undoubtedly turn heads, particularly for value-conscious shoppers. The new 2026 MINI Countryman Oxford Edition S ALL4 is quite the mouthful. It’s also far less expensive than other Countryman options. Starting at $34,900, the Oxford Edition Countryman undercuts the Countryman by $4,000 without drastic cuts to fit and finish. It’s even all-wheel drive, something most vehicles in that price category can’t claim. Mini USA All about the MINI Oxford Edition S Countryman ALL4For model year 2026, MINI’s Oxford Edition Countryman is everything we love about the Countryman with just enough distinction to let you know it’s different. For starters, the Oxford Edition comes in three colors - Chili Red, Nanuq white, and Blazing Blue - without additional cost. While automakers love to give their paint colors clever names, let’s be clear that the Oxford Edition color options are fairly standard red, white, or blue. Mirror caps are black, as is the Oxford Edition’s roof. It doesn’t appear MINI will offer any upgrade options, either. There are new 18-inch Asteroid Spoke black wheels to complement the mirror caps and roof, and this model includes Privacy Glass to complete the look. If you’re a fan of the “blacked out” look, you’ll like what the Oxford Edition Countryman S ALL4 has going on. MINI says the Oxford Edition will also have Active Driving Assistant. MINI didn’t say as much, but we expect the Oxford Edition will come with the Countryman’s standard 2.0-liter TwinTurbo 4-cylinder engine, capable of 241 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. Expect the Countryman’s 7-speed transmission to also make its way to the Oxford Edition with an expected average MPG of 27 (24 city, 32 highway). 2026 MINI Oxford Edition S Countryman ALL4 pricingMINI will price its Oxford Edition Countryman at $34,900, which excludes the destination and handling fee ($1,175). The Countryman S ALL4 starts at $38,900. MINI wasn’t clear about why the Oxford Edition Countryman is a full four thousand dollars cheaper, but history might give us an idea. The Oxford Edition is new to the Countryman, but not MINI. The automaker brought the Oxford Edition to its Cooper lineup this model year, and it seems the lack of upgrade options helps MINI keep the pricing down. You don’t skimp on fun or performance; if an add-on feature is a deal-breaker for you, though, a different Countryman may be best. Gabriel Ionica Final thoughtsThe MINI Countryman is fun to drive, more spacious than you might think, and is now available for far less than the average price of a new car. We love it in Nanuq White, as the contrast with the black roof and mirror caps is striking. Now that the Countryman is a proper small SUV, it’s helped MINI’s sales increase a whopping 19 percent, and we expect the Oxford Edition will help the automaker build on that success. View the full article

Tesla is not the only automaker that employs the use of flush-fitting door handles, but it's arguably facing the most heat over the design decision, and now, it has responded to a recent lawsuit filed by a man who was severely injured in one of its EVs. In case you're unfamiliar, here's a quick recap. Plaintiff Jefferey L. Dennis was driving a 2018 Tesla Model 3 with his wife, Wendy, when the car allegedly accelerated out of control without driver input, crashed into a utility pole without automatic braking activation, and then caught fire. Unfortunately, the retractable door handles failed to allow bystanders to open the doors, claims the lawsuit, and they had to break a window to get the couple out. Sadly, Wendy died, and her husband sustained extreme burns to his legs, among other injuries. Tesla's Response to the Lawsuit Tesla While the lawsuit contends that the EV manufacturer is responsible for damages because the occupants were not warned about the manual door release inside the car, among other defects, Tesla told the judge it is not responsible for the crash or any injuries and disputes the allegations in the lawsuit in their entirety, reports CarComplaints.com. But besides denying that it holds responsibility for the alleged defects, Tesla's primary concern is a claim for punitive damages, whose sole purpose is to punish a company for alleged wrongdoing. If past automotive punitive damages are any indication, this could cost Tesla billions of dollars, and Elon Musk's company says punitive damages should not be part of the lawsuit. Related: China Is Banning Tesla-Style Retractable Door Handles Over Safety Concerns An extract from Tesla's response to the lawsuit reads as follows: "Here, Plaintiffs allege that the crash occurred on January 7, 2023. But Plaintiffs did not file their Complaint until nearly three years later, on November 21, 2025. Plaintiffs’ claim for punitive damages is therefore untimely, as it was filed long after the applicable two-year statute of limitations period had run. What happened to the Dennises is a tragedy, but, under applicable, binding law, their claim for punitive damages must be dismissed." Numerous Tesla Victims and Lawsuits Zac Palmer/Autoblog This lawsuit isn't an isolated case. Several parents claim their kids were trapped in Teslas after the door handles failed, and like the Dennises, some of these incidents have turned deadly. According to a recent Bloomberg investigation, at least 15 people have died in Tesla crashes due to faulty electric door handles, and the problem has become so widespread that regulators are considering whether the handles require a rethink of safety regulations. Unfortunately, it seems that litigation will continue for a long time to come, as Tesla continues to deny responsibility in cases across the country. View the full article

Clamping stuff to the workbench so you can grind or sand on it is a pain sometimes. And if you are having to move and flip and rotate your part to grind on multiple surfaces, it can really take some time. It might not be a big deal if you are only grinding on one or two parts, but if you are doing lots of grinding then that wasted time can really add up. If you have looked for magnetic grinding tables or grinding chucks then you know these things are not cheap. I’ve seen a few folks build their own, at varying levels of difficulty, but this video below is dead simple and really effective. It certainly makes me want to add something like this to my own welding table. Using nothing but a magnetic lifting clamp, a couple pieces of scrap steel, and a few measuring tools, this couple has put together a really effective solution that easily could be scaled up to magnetize an even bigger area. Check it out. Video Description: Are you tired of constantly clamping metal parts while grinding, sanding, or polishing? In this video, I show you one of the best budget shop hacks we’ve added to our metal shop — using a magnetic lifter mounted under our welding table to securely hold sheet metal, signs, and CNC plasma-cut parts without clamps. This magnet was not designed for this purpose, but it works incredibly well as a DIY magnetic solution for grinding and finishing metal. If you’re working with CNC plasma-cut signs, sheet metal, or custom metal art, this setup can save you time, improve safety, and make your workflow much smoother. In this video you’ll learn: How we repurposed a magnetic lifter for grinding work How to mount the magnet under a metal table Why this works better than clamps for flat parts A budget-friendly alternative to expensive magnetic chucks This is a great upgrade for metal shops, CNC plasma shops, sign makers, and fabricators who want a better option than clamps, without spending thousands on specialty equipment. If you enjoy metal shop hacks, CNC plasma projects, and DIY fabrication upgrades, make sure to subscribe for more real-world shop solutions. Disclosure: Some links or promo codes in this description may be affiliate links. If you use them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting the channel! #MetalShopHacks #CNCPlasma #GrindingMetal #MetalFabrication #ShopUpgrades #MagneticLifter #DIYMetal #PlasmaCutSigns #MetalWorking #FabricationTips The post Build Your Own Magnetic Clamping Table! This Magnetic Lifter Shop Hack Is A Game Changer for Grinding Or Sanding Sheet Metal! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Strategic Bet Didn’t Pay OffOutgoing Porsche CEO Oliver Blume reflected on the challenges he faced during his tenure, including a sharp sales decline in China—one of Porsche’s largest markets alongside the U.S. and Germany. In an interview with Germany’s Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Blume said the Chinese luxury market has collapsed by around 80 percent, a downturn that led to missed sales targets and placed added strain on the company’s financial performance. Blume outlined several factors behind Porsche’s struggles in China. One was an aggressive growth strategy that ultimately backfired, as demand failed to materialize at the level the company had anticipated. He also pointed to a lack of flexibility in the brand's product lineup, particularly when it came to powertrain offerings. Porsche The Macan MomentA key example of this was the Porsche Macan. The German automaker moved the next-generation Macan to an all-electric platform, effectively removing future combustion-engine and hybrid alternatives from the model line. Blume acknowledged that Porsche “got it wrong” with the Macan. However, he emphasized that, based on the data available at the time, the company believed it was making the correct strategic call. That broader downturn is echoed by a more recent report from CarNewsChina, which highlighted visibly reduced activity at some Porsche dealerships in China. Deliveries reportedly fell 26 percent year over year to about 32,200 units in the first three quarters of 2025, compared with a peak of around 95,000 vehicles in 2021. Dong’an Holdings, operator of Porsche's dealer network in the country, said employees at affected locations have been placed on leave, with no clear timeline yet for when operations will fully resume. Looking ahead, Blume expressed confidence that there will still be a viable market for combustion-powered vehicles—think of the Porsche 911—over the next 10 to 15 years. He said this view was affirmed through discussions with politicians in China. Porsche A Different View of the Long TermBlume also addressed the possibility of building Porsche models in Volkswagen factories in China, noting that the idea has not been ruled out, though he admitted the stakes would be high. Currently, most Porsche models are produced at the brand’s German plants in Zuffenhausen and Leipzig, while the Cayenne is manufactured in Slovakia. Although Blume is stepping down as Porsche CEO, he will remain at the helm of the Volkswagen Group. He is set to be replaced by Michael Leiters, the former McLaren CEO, effective January 1, 2026. Porsche View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Mitsubishi's Rally HistoryMitsubishi is far from the automaker it once was. Now purveyors of competently okay crossovers, there was a time when it made some of the most advanced cars out there and built some of the most dominant rally cars of all time. Well, you can't mention the company's glory days without giving a shout-out to its exploits in the World Rally Championship. The Diamond Star brand's adventures in rallying date back to the late '60s with the Colt 1000F competing in Australia's Southern Cross Rally. But its first significant entry on the world stage was the Lancer 1600GSR in 1973, and subsequently won the 1974 and 1976 Safari Rally. But then Mitsubishi wanted to aim higher and build a more powerful, competitive car for the World Rally Championship. The result was the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo, which debuted at the 1979 Tokyo Motor Show for the 1980 model year and complied with Group 4 rally rules at the time. It would essentially lay down the foundations for the Lancer Evolution models. Familiar MechanicalsAt first glance, the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo and Lancer Evolution are worlds apart from each other. For starters, the car from 1980 was rear-wheel drive and never offered with all-wheel drive. There's no wild body kit, and not even a spoiler that could double as a dining table. It's mild in comparison to the Evolution models we know (and miss) today. So, what's the link between the EX 2000 Turbo and the Evolution? That would be the engine. The boosted boxy Lancer was powered by Mitsubishi's venerable 4G63T. It would be the same block that would power hot Lancers from 1992 to 2009, spanning nine Evolution models. Facts and FiguresThe Lancer EX 2000 Turbo's specs are tame by today's standards, but hugely respectable in 1980. The 2.0-liter turbocharged mill made 168 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, a big jump from the more pedestrian versions of the Lancer. The car weighed under 2,500 lbs, so it was a turbocharged flyweight with an estimated 0-60 mph in the high-sixes to low-sevens. That engine was then mated to a five-speed manual. Other highlights? It had a sportier set of front and rear bumpers, a squidgy rubber spoiler on the trunklid, and unique 14-inch alloys. Handling upgrades included stiffer springs and dampers, plus vented discs at the front. It also came with a pretty neat mirrored 2000 Turbo graphic on the bottom-right corner of the bumper. An Abbreviated Rally CareerIf it's such an important car for Mitsubishi, then why isn't it being mentioned too often in rally circles? Well, the 2000 EX Turbo came out right about the same time as the Audi Quattro. You can already see where this is going. Mind you, the car had some decent results, although it never really entered a full season. Its best result was third in the 1982 1,000 Lakes Rally in Finland, and the highest-placed car that wasn't an Audi. The Quattros? The one in second place was four minutes ahead of the Lancer. The message was clear: all-wheel drive was the way to go in the sport. Thus, at the end of the 1983 season, the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo was retired from competition. M A Lasting LegacyOne might think that it's a JDM special, but the irony is that the EX 2000 Turbo wasn't even sold in Japan. It was strictly for the European market with the main intention of leaving an impression on the World Rally Championship. That said, the Japanese market did get turbocharged Lancers, though those used a 1.8-liter engine. It was first called the Lancer Turbo, then eventually the Lancer 1800 GSR Turbo when it gained an intercooler. That car actually made an appearance in several Gran Turismo games, but is now missing in the seventh installment. The existence of this car is pretty much esoteric knowledge in America, but the Lancer EX 2000 Turbo is celebrated in parts of Europe and Asia. It's an incredibly rare car with just 1,250 made simply to comply with homologation rules, but that further adds to its cool factor. Okay, it wasn't the most successful rally car, but Mitsubishi learned several valuable lessons from the EX 2000 Turbo program. Those lessons eventually turned the brand into a powerhouse in the World Rally Championship. Mitsubishi's return to the WRC in the '90s would prove much more fruitful, clinching four driver's titles in a row from 1996 to 1999, one manufacturer's championship in 1998, and countless wins along the way. The EX 2000 Turbo walked so that the Evolution could fly through stages. Mitsubishi View the full article

Porsche used 2025 to prove it can modernize hard without losing its core. The year brought an all-new 911 Carrera S, the most powerful production 911 yet, two new electric SUVs and a sweep of major racing titles, all backed by a reshaped leadership team and solid financials. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Product and Tech: the 911 Keeps Moving, the Paint Might TooThe updated 911 range set the tone. The new 911 Carrera S arrived as the sharpest version yet, with more power, cleaner responses and a more capable standard chassis. At the top of the range, the latest 911 Turbo S with its T-Hybrid system became the most powerful production 911 so far, using a compact electric assist to add shove and response rather than chasing EV range. Special models like the retro flavored 911 Spirit 70 cabriolet and the 911 GT3 “90 F. A. Porsche” kept the limited edition pipeline full, while a factory backed Manthey Kit pushed the GT3 closer to club-racer territory. Inside, a modernized Porsche Communication Management system rolled out across 911, Taycan, Panamera and Cayenne, bringing faster hardware, Porsche App Center access and more connected services. Looking slightly further ahead, Porsche even patented dynamic color changing paint tech. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Electric SUVs and the Slowest “Fast” PorscheOn the SUV side, 2025 was when the electric strategy became real volume product. The first all electric Macan GTS arrived as the fifth Macan EV variant and the most driver focused, addressing criticism that the entry level Macan Electric had become the slowest new Porsche Macan by the brand’s own standards. Above it, the fully electric Cayenne and Cayenne Turbo Electric launched as multi role flagships, mixing big power with long distance comfort and some genuine off road ability. Those cars landed during a year Porsche described as financially robust, with record sales in most regions and strong automotive cash flow despite a tougher market. In the background, the boardroom was refreshed, the Leipzig plant picked up a major lean production award and a 75 years of Zuffenhausen milestone underlined how much of the brand’s output still runs through its traditional home. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Racing Silverware, Heritage Metal and a Clear DirectionOn track, Porsche added its 20th overall win at the Daytona 24 Hours, came within seconds of victory at Le Mans with the 963, defended its IMSA titles and wrapped up the Formula E manufacturers’ and teams’ crowns. The 963 RSP “race to road” concept showed how seriously it takes turning that tech into design and aero lessons for road cars. At the other end of the spectrum, interest in classic metal stayed strong. Air cooled 911s continue to pull serious attention, with cars like a low mile, one owner 1973.5 911T. Put together, 2025 suggested Porsche sees its future as a mix of faster hybrids, more capable EV SUVs and a steady trade in heritage and motorsport credibility to keep the brand halo bright. View the full article

The International Hot Rod Association has been making huge waves in the drag racing community with some pretty unbelievable announcements and purchases over the past year and there is no sign of them slowing down. After announcing last week that the long abandoned Memphis Motorsports Park had been purchased, and would return to racing glory in 2025, they could have easily cruised through the end of 2025 with no trouble. But that’s not their style, so here we go with one last big announcement for 2025! Yep, they have just announced the purchase of another abandoned track, Heartland Park Motorsports Park in Topeka, Kansas. This track has been plagued with poor management, bad deals, lack of support, and more for the past several years. Can IHRA finally turn this cool facility around? I think there are some fundamental changes that need to be made here, but those changes can definitely make a huge impact. Check out their plans below. We can’t wait to see what they do with it all! IHRA Acquires Heartland Motorsports Park, Announces Vision to Restore Iconic Facility as a Destination Entertainment and Racing Complex FAIRFIELD, Ohio — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced the acquisition of Heartland Motorsports Park in Topeka, Kansas, reinforcing IHRA’s long-term commitment to preserving motorsports history while reimagining legendary venues for the future. Originally opened in 1963 as Topeka Dragway, the facility later evolved into Heartland Motorsports Park and became one of the most versatile motorsports complexes in the country. Over the decades, Heartland has hosted major national drag racing events, road racing, karting, motocross, and countless grassroots competitions, earning its reputation as a cornerstone of Midwest motorsports. With this acquisition, Heartland Motorsports Park enters a new chapter — one that honors its storied past while positioning the property as a modern destination entertainment complex. “Heartland Motorsports Park is one of those places that simply matters to racing,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of the International Hot Rod Association. “It has history, soul, and a footprint that allows us to think bigger than just a racetrack. Our goal is to restore this facility with respect for its legacy while building something that serves racers, fans, and the community for generations.” A Destination for Racing, Music, and Community IHRA’s long-term vision for Heartland Motorsports Park extends well beyond competition weekends. Planned restoration and redevelopment efforts will focus on creating a year-round destination that blends motorsports with live entertainment and community engagement, including: · Revitalized drag racing operations with improved racer and fan amenities · Expanded motorsports and special event programming · Live music, concerts, and festival experiences · Enhanced hospitality, vendor, and fan-experience areas · Community-focused events designed to drive tourism and economic impact “Motorsports has to evolve to stay strong,” Cuttell added. “The future is about creating places where racing, music, entertainment, and community come together. Heartland has all the pieces to become one of the premier motorsports and entertainment destinations in the country.” The acquisition aligns with IHRA’s broader racer-first philosophy, which includes direct investment in facilities and infrastructure that strengthen grassroots racing, elevate national competition, and create sustainable motorsports ecosystems. Renovation planning will begin immediately, with additional announcements regarding redevelopment phases, event schedules, and community partnerships expected in the coming months. About the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) Founded in 1970, the International Hot Rod Association is one of the world’s premier motorsports sanctioning bodies, overseeing drag racing and a growing portfolio of motorsports disciplines. IHRA is committed to racer advocacy, innovation, safety, and creating dynamic racing and entertainment destinations that benefit competitors, fans, and host communities. The post IHRA Acquires Heartland Motorsports Park In A Move To Resurrect Yet Another Abandoned Race Track! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Hypercar Rooted in HistoryEven before Bugatti set multiple speed records with the Veyron, the French marque already had a rich history shaped by its involvement in motorsports and its long-standing production of ultra-luxury vehicles. This one-of-one 2024 Chiron Super Sport 'Elephant Blanc' blends that heritage with modern technology and is scheduled to be offered for sale through Bonhams Cars. “Elephant Blanc” translates to “white elephant,” a reference to the car’s Blanc Glacier (Glacier White) exterior paint. The elephant motif itself nods to the brand’s historic elephant sculpture once mounted on the hood of the Bugatti Type 41 Royale – much like the Spirit of Ecstasy in Rolls-Royce models. That sculpture was created by Rembrandt Bugatti, the brother of company founder Ettore Bugatti, to whom this one-off commission is dedicated. Bonhams Cars Big Car, Big SymbolThe Type 41 Royale is widely regarded as one of the rarest and most expensive automobiles of all time, with Bugatti believed to have produced just six examples around 1930. It was a massive vehicle, reportedly weighing as much as 7,000 pounds, with its enormous 12.8-liter inline-8 engine contributing to that figure. The elephant sculpture served as a radiator cap and symbolized Bugatti’s fusion of artistry and heritage. The Chiron Super Sport offered for sale does not feature the same hood-mounted sculpture. However, the bespoke commission incorporates embroidered elephant motifs on the seat headrests within the Bleu France-finished interior. The side sill further pays homage to the car’s historical inspiration with the script “L' Elephant Blanc.” Much of the remaining cabin is finished in exposed carbon fiber, a material choice that reduces weight while enhancing performance. Bonhams Cars Speed With a Sense of CalmSpeaking of performance, since this example is based on the Chiron Super Sport, it is powered by an 8.0-liter quad-turbocharged W16 engine producing 1,578 horsepower. Unlike the more track-oriented Pur Sport variant, the Super Sport focuses on long-distance refinement. Its signature long-tail bodywork plays a key role in improving aerodynamic efficiency and stability at extreme speeds. The 2024 Chiron Super Sport “Elephant Blanc” is slated to cross the block at The Scottsdale Auction on January 23, 2026, though Bonhams said to refer to the department for estimates. For context, the standard Chiron Super Sport already carries a base price of roughly $3.8 million. The hypercar will be offered alongside other notable classics at the same auction, including a 1956 Ferrari 250 GT Coupe and a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster, the open-top counterpart to the iconic gullwing coupe. Bonhams Cars View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Happy 50th, Golf GTIIt may not be the first hot hatch ever made, but the Volkswagen Golf GTI can be best described as the car that defined the genre. Introduced in 1976, it was the result of an ad hoc team that wanted to prove to management that a sporty Golf is a worthwhile endeavour. Thankfully, they were proven right, as the GTI is still around and spawned countless competitors over the decades. In 2026, it celebrates its 50th anniversary, so now would be a good time to take a quick look back at all the sporty Golfs through the years. MK. I: The Stepping StoneVolkswagen wasn't exactly inclined to do anything remotely sporty in the '70s. It was a transitional time for the brand, and it was in serious trouble in the first part of the decade. Its air-cooled models weren't selling, and the NSU-based K70 fell flat in the market. Thankfully, the Golf came out in '74 to turn things around and marked a new chapter for the company. Inevitably, the idea of a performance-oriented model came about, but management was having none of it. A sporty Beetle dubbed the Gelb-Schwarzer Renner (Yellow-Black Racer) was met with backlash from the German parliament and branded as an invitation to speed...which is ironic for a country that has the Autobahn. Still, a skunkworks team was assembled that involved smuggling parts to make the project work. After working in secret, the team eventually presented it to the board in 1975 and, presumably, was approved begrudgingly. The result was the Golf GTI that came with a 1.6-liter fuel-injected engine that made 108 hp and 103 lb-ft, a stiffened-up chassis, and an interior decor that would define the car from that moment on. Management reckoned they'd be lucky to sell 5,000 GTIs, but the total tally by '83 was 461,690 units. It eventually came to America as the Rabbit GTI in '83 and sported a bigger 1.8-liter engine. MK. II: European Yuppie's DelightThe MK. 1 GTI had proven its point to VW's board by selling 92.3 times better than the initial forecast. With that, the second-generation GTI evolved into a slightly more mature version of its predecessor. At first, it carried over the same engine from the MK. 1, but eventually gained 16 valves to bump up the power to 137 hp and 124 lb-ft. That said, the American versions made less due to emissions regulations. By this time, competition had started to sprout up. Over in Europe, there was the Ford Escort XR3 (later, XR3i), Peugeot 205 GTI, and Opel Kadett GSi. Meanwhile, America responded with the Dodge Omni GLH and GLH-S, while Japan's answer was the Toyota Corolla FX-16. There were scores of other hatchbacks that wore GTI badges in the '80s, but it was the Golf that reigned supreme. MK. III: The Difficult Third AlbumOften regarded as the softest of GTIs, the MK. III had a bit of a roller-coaster ride throughout its production. For starters, it was saddled with 2a .0-liter engine that barely made more power over its predecessor (113 hp), but was thankfully rectified with the 16-valve model to give it about 150 hp. However, the hot hatch horsepower arms race was heating up. As a response to that, the GTI VR6 was born, shoving in a 2.8-liter VR6 engine under the hood. The two extra cylinders gave a healthy power bump to 172 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque. MK. IV: The Underrated GTI?Under the watchful eye of Ferdinand Piëch, the MK. IV Golf is probably one of the most solidly-engineered VW products of all time, particularly the European versions. However, this era of the GTI model was more warm than hot. Sure, the car felt great with junior Audi levels of build and refinement, but its performance was a mere half-step over its predecessor. It was, however, the first turbocharged GTI with its 1.8-liter turbo making 150 hp at first, and 180 hp later on. Sure, the car felt great with junior Audi levels of build and refinement, but its performance was a mere half-step over its predecessor. However, the performance side of the MK. IV vindicated itself with the R32 with its 3.2-liter, 238 hp V6 coupled to a Haldex all-wheel drive system. MK. V: GTI'm BackPerhaps stung by the criticisms from the past two generations, the Golf GTI came back with a vengeance for its fifth iteration. This time around, the 2.0-liter engine returned, but now turbocharged and made 197 hp. But its most important upgrade came in the form of independent rear suspension. Not only did it finally have the power, but it also had the chassis to match it. The MK. V would also mark the beginning of Volkswagen's fondness for giving the GTI multiple special editions that added more horsepower and sharper dynamics. One such example was the Pirelli Edition that cranked up the numbers to 230 hp, 33 hp more than standard. But regardless of what version is chosen, the MK. V set the foundations for the modern GTI. MK. VI: An Evolution of the ThemeWe're not going to overcomplicate things here. The MK. VI Golf was essentially a reskin of the MK. V, and the same applied to the GTI models. That said, it's a gentle evolution that's a step in the right direction. After all, it was built on the strong foundations of the model that came before it. This time around, there were tweaks to the chassis, a more upmarket interior, and yes, more horsepower. From 197 hp, the 2.0-liter turbo has been gently massaged to 207 hp, and the later 35th Anniversary Edition squeezed another 25 hp from the same block to give it 232 hp. MK. VII: Peak Golf, Peak GTI?Is this the best modern GTI? Fans seem to think so. We can't blame them for putting this model near (or at) the top when asked to rank every generation of VW's hot hatch. If anything, it further reinforced the GTI's 'one-car solution' ethos by being comfortable and sensible when you need it, while being fun and engaging when you want it. Riding on the new MQB chassis helped, too, along with incremental increases in horsepower throughout its production. For the MK. VII, it's as if Volkswagen summoned the spirit of the MK. IV in terms of build and its feeling of robustness. At the same time, it avoided all the pitfalls of the MK. IV GTI when it moved upmarket by being quick, dynamic, and sharp. It's still powered by the now-familiar 2.0 TSI engine, with power starting at 217 hp for the early models, 227 for later ones, and 242 hp for the facelifted GTI Performance versions. Special models were available outside the US, namely the TCR, Clubsport, and the ultra-rare Clubsport S, which made over 300 hp. MK. VIII: And Here We Are NowNot only is the current model the most powerful one to date in standard guise, but it's also the most loaded with tech. Alongside its boosted 2.0-liter engine with 241 hp (the Euro-spec gets 261 hp. Boo.) is a barrage of advanced driver assists, AI-powered tech, and creature comforts that wouldn't look out of place in a 2010s luxury sedan. The car still retains its all-aroundness, and the updates introduced for the 2025 model year were mostly welcome. Sadly, the MK. VIII is the last GTI to be offered with a manual, as the facelift models are no longer offered with it. Also, the stylish (but slow-selling) three-door body style is no longer being offered, starting with this generation. Still, at least it hasn't lost its sense of fun, and VW is celebrating its golden anniversary in a big way to prove that the GTI is here to stay. The GTI Edition 50 was revealed a few months back, and customer deliveries will begin in 2026. At the same time, the company will be holding several gatherings all over Europe to celebrate its hot hatch. There's more good news, too, as the company has confirmed that the GTI will still be gas-fed well into the 2030s. Long live the hot hatch, we say, and VW has been instrumental in keeping it going. View the 35 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Back on the StreetsThe Tesla Cybercab has been spotted testing once again – this time on public roads in Austin. However, based on images and videos shared by several users on X, the test vehicles have a steering wheel and a human driver, both of which are uncharacteristic of the production-intent version. The Cybercabs seen on public roads were also equipped with side mirrors, a feature that was notably absent when the EV maker unveiled its dedicated robotaxi during the “We, Robot” event last year. But in terms of overall proportions and design language, the vehicles closely resemble the concept. The Cybercab’s visibly small proportions reflect its two-seat layout—a configuration that may limit passenger capacity but also brings certain advantages. Two Tesla Cybercabs out testing in Austin, TX again today. The roads are changing forever. pic.twitter.com/oVSYnkOqQZ — Nic Cruz Patane (@niccruzpatane) December 28, 2025 Tesla Bets on MinimalismWith a two-seat layout, unnecessary mass is effectively eliminated—dead weight that is often present in larger robotaxis, such as those operated by Waymo, particularly when only a single passenger is onboard. From an EV efficiency standpoint, a lighter vehicle typically translates to improved range and lower energy consumption, both of which align closely with Tesla’s stated goal of keeping Cybercab operations as low-cost as possible. Vehicle size also affects manufacturing efficiency. A smaller, simpler design enables faster assembly, with Tesla previously stating a goal of producing Cybercabs at a rate of one vehicle every 10 seconds. Unsurprisingly, the autonomous driving system itself did not appear to be fully exercised during these public-road tests, given the presence of driver controls and human supervision. Still, based on the available sightings, the Cybercabs did not appear to encounter any obvious operational issues while navigating real-world traffic conditions. For context, Tesla’s current production vehicles, such as the Model 3, operate using SAE Level 2 driver-assistance systems, which require continuous human attention. By contrast, the Cybercab is intended to operate without human intervention, a target that aligns with SAE Level 4 autonomy. That aim places the Cybercab in the same autonomy category as Waymo’s fully driverless vehicles, and it also explains Tesla’s decision to design the robotaxi without a steering wheel or pedals in its final form. Tesla CyberCab in the wild! HAS steering wheel @SawyerMerritt @Tesla_AI #cybercab pic.twitter.com/CaSglJmY8N — Matt Barge (@matthewbarge) December 27, 2025 A Preview of Tesla’s Robotaxi RoadmapThis Austin sighting follows the Cybercab’s first known appearance on public roads, which occurred in Los Altos, California, last October. Tesla has since also displayed a production-spec version at its Santana Row showroom in San Jose. Tesla is currently targeting April 2026 for the start of Cybercab production. That timeline, however, still depends on regulatory approval for unsupervised autonomous operation. Without such approval, the appeal of a steering-wheel-less, two-seat robotaxi becomes far less compelling. In the meantime, the company continues to rely on modified Tesla Model Y vehicles for its early robotaxi efforts. Tesla View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Kia is turning the Times Square New Year’s Eve countdown into a rolling commercial for its all-new 2027 Telluride, using one of TV’s most watched minutes to relaunch its American flagship SUV. At 11:59 p.m. on 31 December, the giant screen directly under the famous ball at One Times Square will hand over the final 60 seconds of 2025 to Kia’s second-generation Telluride and the team that builds it. Kia A One Minute New Year’s Eve ShowcaseFor most of the final minute of the year, the digital countdown clock will be wrapped in visuals of the 2027 Telluride, highlighting its new exterior, “sanctuary” style cabin and updated tech and entertainment features. Kia calls it a “total takeover” of the clock, designed to make the SUV as much a part of the broadcast as the ball drop itself. At the 20 second mark, the content switches from product to people. The display will salute team members from Kia Georgia in West Point, the plant that builds the Telluride, with some of those workers on site in Times Square when the ball drops. It is a neat way to underline that Kia’s big three row is both designed for the U.S. and assembled there. K A Radically New 2027 Telluride Behind the LightsKia is spending this kind of money because the 2027 Telluride is more than just a facelift. Our first in person look showed a much bolder nose, reworked lighting, a more sculpted profile and a cabin that leans harder into upscale materials and tech. An available hybrid powertrain and a more serious X-Pro off road oriented trim expand the lineup beyond what the current generation offered. If you want to see how far it has moved, the 2025 Kia Telluride vs 2027 Kia Telluride gallery makes the changes obvious. The new truck looks more upright and confident on the outside and more like a near luxury family hauler inside, which fits Kia’s goal of using the Telluride to anchor the top of its SUV range. K What it Means for Telluride ShoppersThe Times Square splash also doubles as a handoff moment. The current 2025 Telluride remains on sale into 2026 with its proven V6 and familiar trims, and it is still possible to find deals as dealers clear space for the new generation. Shoppers watching the ball drop who are not ready to wait can look at offers like current 2025 Telluride lease deals while they last, then decide whether the redesign and hybrid option are worth holding out for. View the full article

The Unicorn Behind the LegendIf there’s one poster car that transcends generations of enthusiasts, it’s the 1967 Shelby GT500. When Ford redesigned the Mustang platform for 1967, Carroll Shelby seized the opportunity and dropped the 428 big-block V8 between the fenders, birthing a legend. So when the Gone in 60 Seconds production team needed a hero car, they selected a 1967 GT500 fastback as the template to create one of the most recognizable muscle cars in existence: Eleanor. This genuine Shelby carries the original blueprint that inspired Eleanor's entire existence. This example wears Dark Moss Green paint, and has been restored to factory-spec back in the ‘90s. Mecum's January auction estimates suggest values between $325,000 and $375,000 for this restored GT500, a bargain for a highly-original example of the car that gave rise to Eleanor. Mecum View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Restored to Original SpecificationOnly 2,048 GT500 fastbacks were made in ’67, the first year of production. Each featured hand-fitted components, including the extended nose, functional hood scoops, and the distinctive rear spoiler. The GT500 pushed 355 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque through either a three-speed automatic transmission or a four-speed manual, like this car. Mecum View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Specialist Greg Adams handled the comprehensive restoration of this example, prioritizing factory correctness and originality. The numbers-matching 428 engine was rebuilt to original specifications, meaning there’s more of those ponies still around today. The cabin features the original tachometer, AM radio, clock, and extra cooling package. Period-correct Magstar wheels wear Goodyear rubber with white lettering. The hood, inboard headlights, hood pins, power front disc brakes, and roll bar all match original factory equipment lists. Current mileage hovers just under 50,000 miles, representing careful preservation rather than garage-queen status. The odometer reading places this GT500 firmly in collectible territory, but not so low that the next owner can’t drive it the way it was meant to be driven. The Shelby GT500 Still Has Investment PotentialPricing on this beautiful Shelby places it squarely in the middle tier of the GT500 market, where correct restoration work commands premium dollars, without reaching the unattainable territory of Eleanor movie cars, which typically fetch around a million dollars if one pops up for sale. Meanwhile, tribute builds command considerably less at $150,000 to $200,000. Mecum This factory-original example bridges that gap, offering genuine Shelby credentials without movie-provenance inflation and the extras that a lot of enthusiasts don't appreciate. The GT500's significance, being the first year of big-block Shelby production, and the foundation for everything that followed, cannot be overstated. For collectors, this car’s originality is everything, making it a proper unicorn. View the full article

CFMoto just revealed the 2026 800MT ES with KYB semi-active suspension and a few more trick parts. But there's one key detail missing.View the full article

Billy Hoskinson’s parents brought him home from the hospital as a baby in a ’70 Nova, and he’s been infatuated with fast cars ever since. From filming – and competing in – central Ohio’s most notorious street races to promoting his own races at the track and making a name for himself as a driver in the no-prep world, Hoskinson, 28, has turned a childhood fascination into something much more than he could’ve imagined. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Hoskinson’s earliest memories of racing include riding around Pacemakers Dragway Park in Mount Vernon, Ohio, with his mother, listening to hear his father’s name announced over the PA system every time he won a round. Billy started driving a Jr. Dragster when he was nine, which prepared him to step into the same car he grew up watching his father race. He had some success in the local bracket racing scene with it, but Street Outlaws and street racing in general started pulling Hoskinson in a different direction. Hoskinson launched a YouTube channel where he’d post coverage from big street races in the Columbus area. Inspired by 1320Video’s coverage of street racing further West, Hoskinson felt he could shine a light on his local scene. “It was never really supposed to be about me,” Hoskinson says. “Then I started running out of content because things slowed down in the winter, so I started filming myself working on my projects in the shop. It kind of took off from there.” One of Hoskinson’s projects was the ’88 Chevy S10 he built with his dad, who bought it for Billy when he was 15. He drove it to high school before they put nitrous on it. Hoskinson and the S10 became notorious around town, and he got a call one cold November evening with a callout from Street Outlaws star “Daddy Dave” Comstock, who was racing in Dayton. Hoskinson loaded his truck in the freezing rain and headed South to face Comstock. “He beat me by a couple car lengths, but it was just really influential because I was just out of high school at the time.” The video of that race was one of the first to appear on Hoskinson’s YouTube channel, Street Racing Channel, which now boasts nearly 400,000 subscribers. Between the channel and his success in street races, Hoskinson’s notoriety began to stretch beyond the street racing community. He was firmly on local law enforcement’s radar, and when the law finally caught up to him, the judge offered to reduce his charges if he would start promoting races at the track in an attempt to get racers off the street. Hoskinson took the deal and started putting on a series of races at three different tracks in the area. Event promotion eventually became too time-consuming and Hoskinson switched his attention back to his own racing program, focusing on no-prep races and backside races – anywhere with little traction and big money. His proudest accomplishment in that style of racing came recently when Street Car Takeover held a race on pit lane at Nashville Superspeedway. With $30,000 on the line, Hoskinson defeated heavy hitter Ryan Mitchell in the final round, which went viral online. “I’ve been trying to beat him for 10 years,” Hoskinson says. “He’s beat me probably six times now consecutively, and I’ve been racing him since I was 20 years old. That was a huge accomplishment for me. And then I went through the finish line with all four wheels off the ground. It was crazy.” Hoskinson is also raising a future racer of his own, as his two-year-old son, Wyatt, loves cars and runs around the house making engine noises while he plays with his Hot Wheel cars. Hoskinson is already looking forward to the day he brings home a Jr. Dragster for his little boy, but until then, he’s going to keep chasing win lights himself while continuing to make an impact on his corner of the drag racing world. “I would really like to take the channel to the next level, and I’d like to start hosting events again at some point,” says Hoskinson, who thanked his parents and younger brother Tommy, as well as his friends and supporters. “I would like to do one or two events a year, just make them really big and try to give back to the community that helped me get where I’m at.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Billy Hoskinson first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The 2026 Triumph Scrambler 900 gets some tasty upgrades, including a more robust suspension, and here's our video review about it.View the full article

Off-Road Sports Car, for LessPerformance cars equipped with genuine off-road mods aren’t a new idea—think of the Porsche 911 Dakar and the Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato. The problem, of course, is accessibility. Cars like these are wildly expensive, placing them well out of reach for most enthusiasts. Japanese tuner Kuhl Racing aims to offer an alternative for one of the most attainable modern sports cars on the market: the Toyota GR86. The rally-inspired package—officially called Kuhl Outroad—goes well beyond cosmetic tweaks with a bolt-on turbo kit designed to unlock the GR86’s performance potential further. The company is set to unveil the Outroad package in the metal at the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon. Kuhl Racing Ready for DirtAhead of that debut, early previews of the Kuhl Outroad reveal a design that leans heavily into rugged aesthetics and functional upgrades. The package includes widebody components that not only give the GR86 a more aggressive stance but also help shield the body from debris and damage when off-roading. Additional exterior elements include a rear window louver, a roof carrier, and a headlight “eyeliner” trim. Mechanical upgrades are just as substantial. Kuhl Racing offers an optional hydraulic lift system capable of increasing ride height by up to three inches, improving ground clearance and allowing the GR86 to better navigate uneven or unpaved surfaces, along with racing dampers and brake system from the tuner itself. The entire setup rides on 18-inch aluminum wheels, which Kuhl Racing says are both lightweight and highly rigid. Kuhl Racing Power to Match the LookUnder the hood, the optional turbo kit is claimed to deliver a 50-horsepower increase over the stock engine. With the upgrade installed, the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer-four engine is expected to produce roughly 280 horsepower. From the factory, the GR86 is offered with a rear-wheel-drive layout and is available with either a 6-speed manual or an automatic gearbox. Kuhl Racing lists the full conversion kit for a total price of ¥4,150,000 (approximately $26,500 at current exchange rates). For reference, Toyota currently sells the GR86 in the U.S. with a starting price of $30,800, positioning it as the brand’s most accessible performance model beneath the GR Corolla and the soon-to-be-discontinued GR Supra. The Tokyo Auto Salon is scheduled to run from January 9 to 11, 2026, and the event is expected to showcase several high-profile debuts, including Toyota’s upcoming flagship sports car, the GR GT. Kuhl Racing View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Dragzine Hammer Of The Year isn't given, it's earned. Dallas Glenn is the 2025 Dragzine Hammer Of The Year.View the full article

A New Era for AlpinaBMW and Alpina may be closely related, but the latter has been an independent automaker in its own right from the start. However, that all changed when BMW bought the rights to the company in 2022. The move was made to ensure the survival of the brand, and it's not because Alpina isn't making enough money. If anything, Alpina is doing too well for what's supposedly a small-volume manufacturer. As a result, it could no longer skirt the emissions regulations it has long tried to avoid. In other words, the company has to lower average emissions across its lineup, or else it faces heavy fines and penalties. Alpina can't do that on its own, hence BMW's takeover. BMW The First Alpina Under BMW is Coming SoonBMW Blog reports that Alpina's first car under BMW's wing will be based on the 7 Series. If so, it could mark the return of the B7. The company hasn't built a flagship sedan since the latest generation of 7 Series came out, and that could all change sooner than later. That model could also become the first Alpina-badged vehicle based on a more recent BMW platform. There are other interesting details in the report, too. For instance, the car is said to be based on the facelifted version of the 7 Series that'll be released sometime in 2026. We say it's for the best, as it'll benefit from significant updates inside and out. At the same time, it might carry its own internal designation to give it more distinction over standard 7 Series models. For reference, the flagship sedan currently carries the chassis code G70, while the factory-armored version is dubbed the G73. Zac Palmer It Could Get a V8, TooAmerica should consider itself lucky, as it's the only market that officially gets a V8 7 Series. Emission laws in Europe prevent that, meaning the 7 Series models over there have to circumvent that through (admittedly potent) six-cylinder plug-in hybrid options instead. With Alpina coming into the picture, it could be the Old Continent's way to get V8 power back in BMW's largest sedan. Its longtime rivals, the Audi A8 and Mercedes-Benz S-Class, still offer eight-cylinder power, although you'll have to go for the S8 if you want a V8-powered German limo with four rings. In other words, Alpina can keep doing what it's doing without the anxiety of looming emissions penalties hovering over it. Its parent company can keep churning out electrified vehicles to keep average emissions relatively low in Europe. It's good news for the American market, too, as there is no high-performance derivative of the V8 7 Series at the moment. Granted, the 760i's S68 twin-turbo V8 makes a heady 536 hp, but there's always room for more. We'll find out more about Alpina's plans later in 2026, but it's safe to say that BMW won't be putting its newly-acquired subsidiary to waste. Aside from the 7 Series, there has also been talk of the slow-selling XM getting replaced by an Alpina-badged vehicle down the line, along with more bespoke models. Bovensiepen Roman Raetzke View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article