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Hopes of a mid-engine sports car comeback for Toyota have been in the air for a while now, and when the automaker filed a trademark for the GR MR2 name last year, it was hard not to get excited. But still, nothing concrete had been announced—until now. Tomoya Takahashi, the Toyota Gazoo Racing president, has finally confirmed that a new mid-engine sports car is on its way. The news comes around two decades after the MR2 exited the U.S. market, but unfortunately, it’s still going to be a bit of a wait before the new sports car hits the production line. New Sports Car In Early Development Stage According to an interview with Automotive News, Takahashi said series production of the mid-engine sports car is still years away. The car, which is still unnamed at this stage, is currently in the first of four development stages. Therefore, it could take up to five years before the production version is ready. Powering it will be a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that was already put to use in the GR Yaris M Concept introduced late last year. Compatible with front-engine layouts too, the new engine will be more powerful than the 2.4-liter turbo-four Toyota already produces. This engine, known as the G20E, is capable of producing over 600 hp, but we don’t expect the new sports car to be quite as powerful as that. Designed to meet upcoming Euro 7 emission regulations, the new engine will likely be hybridized, too. “If we are going to mount this engine on many different vehicles, it’s almost mandatory to be able to combine it with hybrid technology,” said Takahashi. The small, lithe MR2 only made 138 hp when it went out of production, and if this new car is a similar size, it wouldn’t need crazy power to be quick. Still, we can expect it to be far more potent than the old MR2. Unlike the rear-wheel-drive MR2, the new sports car is expected to use all-wheel drive. Advantages Of The Rare, Mid-Engined Sports Car T Mid-engined sports cars are rare, with the most notable current examples being the Chevrolet Corvette C8, Porsche 718 Boxster, and Porsche 718 Cayman. Beyond that are true exotics from the likes of McLaren and Ferrari. At under $30,000, the MR2 gave enthusiasts access to a mid-engined sports car without a sky-high price, bringing with it all the advantages of such a configuration. By placing an engine in the middle of a car, the weight distribution is centralized, helping to lower the car’s center of gravity and improve handling and traction. Such a layout also allows the design of a lower, more aerodynamic frontal area. The disadvantage, of course, is in packaging. Mid-engine cars often have small interiors and minimal cargo space, not that this is a dealbreaker in a dedicated sports car. Related: Toyota's Gazoo Racing Is Now a Standalone Brand Why It MattersToyota’s Gazoo Racing is now a standalone brand, and it’s clear the Japanese giant wants to take it to new heights, just as it’s doing with the Century ultra-luxury brand. More practical GR models like the GR Corolla have broadened the performance brand’s appeal, but Toyota is increasingly focusing on more exclusive models. The flagship GR GT is one of those, and the new mid-engine sports car is another. Both show Toyota's commitment to producing driver-focused cars well into the electrification era. View the full article

Here’s Photo Gallery #2 from Joe Grippo, as we’ve got even more to share from his Best Of 2025. Check them out below and if you missed the first gallery, we’ve got a link below to that one too. Joe Grippo is one of BANGshift’s longest running contributors and has covered everything from junkyards to car shows and drag races to drag and drives, and so much more. He drags his lovely wife, and enthusiastic brother, along with him to some of the shows and races and he’s been contributing for years. It is kind of amazing to think that he’s been a supporter of the site since its inception, and is still going strong. Big thanks Joe, we appreciate you so much. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PREVIOUS PHOTOS Here’s his writeup: Well, here we are again, finishing up another trip around the sun and wrapping up the year that was 2025. Seems like a good time to revisit the previous twelve months through my photographic year in review. January started out with some indoor car show stuff where we saw the recently restored Scott Shaffiroff Pro Stock Mustang II and the A.J. Foyt IROC series Camaro. Maple Grove Raceway continued with their Winter Series No Prep races, always a wild time. And dig the Godden Speedway Bike my neighbor had just finished up, so killer! February had a trip to my favorite car collection, 3Dog Garage where Ross the owner had just added some Andy Brisio creations and a GT40. Mind blow. Another trip to the Grove for 20-degree temps and more No Prep insanity. March, we went back inside for the East Coast Indoor Nats, that Comet and that Corvette with the proper number of taillights were it for me.v April kick off our race season. I was able to get a spot in a track rental at Maple Grove with bunch of Exotic car dues. I was the loudest car there. Then it was the Spring Carlisle swap meet, where a ton of cool stuff was there for the taking is you had the scratch. Need a drum of orange Hot Wheel track or a CW Racing Phaze 1 BMX frame? Of course you do. May had a trip to Delaware for the Good Guys, where I took in all kinds of killer Rods. Fat Fender Fords, Pro Streeters channeled coupes and high zoot street rods filled the infield of Dover Speedway. June was the Carlisle All Ford Nationals and some bracket races. July, we did some big money bracket racing, again at the Grove with the Independence Shoot-Out. Next, we hit our favorite nostalgia meet, Geezers at the Grove at, of course, Maple Grove Raceway. August was a diverse month. A friend finished his restoration of J.C Baker’s DragMaster Dart and held an unveiling party. Mr. Baker was in attendance for the emotional reveal. Quite a day. I took a quick rundown to Cecil County Dragway to take in qualifying at the Yellowbullet Nats, always killer cars and racing in front of a packed house. Then on a random Tuesday evening I went to get a haircut and saw that my barber Jesse had ridden his rigid, coffin-tanked H-D chopper to the shop, had to click a few off. September was a crazy blur being the busiest month of the year. It kicked off with the NHRA Keystone Nationals at Maple Grove. Factory Stock and some bad ass Comp Eliminator cars are highlighted. Then thanks to BangShift we tagged along for DragWeek. Numidia Dragway, Maple Grove and Cecil were our stops, along with some checkpoint and roadside wildness. A few days later we loaded up my Mustang and headed to Bowling Green, Kentucky for the Holley Ford Festival. What a blast! We got to see a ton of Fords we had never seen before. Along with some old friends, like Chad who was barking into the mic all weekend. While in Bowling Green we hit the nearby Corvette Museum. Oh yeah, and Buc-ee’s. October is Hershey, more specifically the AACA Eastern Region Fall Meet, or aka, my favorite week of the year. Swap Meet and car show loaded with a variety of stuff you likely won’t see anywhere else. Fall is for drag racing, we hit some bracket races and the NHRA Division 1 Dutch Classic. And don’t sleep on Fall Carlise for additional swap meet goodness. November is when we start to slow down and go to one of our traditional last events of the year is the Pumpkin Run at Harry Flemings Junkyard in Egg Harbor, New Jersey. Support the local shows! Thanks for reliving 2025 through my adventures, more coming in ’26, starting soon. The post Joe Grippo’s 2025 Year In Review: More Of The Best Street Cars, Hot Rods, Race Cars, Drag and Drive, and Drag Race Action of 2025! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

If the new year has endowed you with the desire to buy a new car that is both good to drive and won't break the bank, but you're not sure what to get, perhaps this list will help. U.S. News & World Report has announced the winners of its 2026 Best Cars for the Money Awards, and with the categories now spanning 20 different categories, up from 13 in 2025, there's something for every lifestyle, even as the average new car price hovers around the $50,000 mark. Without any further ado, let's see which cars, crossovers, SUVs, trucks, and minivans should be on your radar this year. Best Compact Car for the Money Kia The 2026 Kia K4 was judged the Best Compact Car for the money, and with it starting at just $22,290, the sedan blends style with affordability. It's also available in hatchback form, broadening its appeal, but what if your family needs more space? Best Compact SUV for the Money Hyundai Staying in South Korea, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson bagged the Best Compact SUV for the Money award. This sneaks in below $30,000 with a base MSRP of $29,450, and even as the 2027 Tucson prepares for a major facelift, the current model still looks good. With available AWD, it's suitable for those who endure a snowy winter, too. Best Compact Hybrid Car for the Money Hyundai Sticking to the compact segment but focusing more on fuel costs, the Best Compact Hybrid Car for the Money is another sub-$30k car, the 2026 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid ($25,450). The 2026 awards have been expanded to include more hybrids, and when Autoblog asked if this signals a shift in demand for electrified vehicles that could hint at greater EV acceptance or simply a higher focus on day-to-day running costs, Alex Kwanten, Managing Editor of U.S. News Autos, said, "It comes down to dollars and cents." People aren't as concerned about what powers their car as they are about what it costs to keep it on the road, and hybrids offer greater efficiency without the inconveniences typically associated with EV ownership. Best Compact Hybrid SUV for the Money Kia Kia bags another award, winning the Best Compact Hybrid SUV for the Money award with the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid, which offers 232 horsepower for $30,490. And if you need more grunt, its more electrified sibling is also worthy of your consideration. Best Compact Plug-In Hybrid SUV for the MoneySpend $10,000 more, and you can have the Best Plug-In Hybrid SUV for the Money, the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV ($40,490). This produces a respectable 268 hp and manages up to 34 miles of all-electric range. Prefer your SUV without an engine? Buy American. Best Compact EV SUV for the Money Chevrolet The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox EV wins the Best Compact Electric SUV for the Money award, and it's not hard to see why. At the halfway point of last year, the Equinox was the best-selling non-Tesla EV in the U.S. For 2026, the Equinox starts at $34,995, and that gives you 319 miles of EPA-estimated range (in FWD form). Best Subcompact SUV for the Money Cole Attisha/Autoblog The first Japanese car on this list to get the nod is the 2026 Nissan Kicks, winning the Best Subcompact SUV for the Money award with its $22,430 starting price and up to 30 cubic feet of cargo space. But Korea's stranglehold on this year's top spots is far from loosened. Best Subcompact Hybrid SUV for the Money Kristen Brown/Autoblog The award for the Best Subcompact Hybrid SUV goes to the 2026 Kia Niro HEV, which starts at $27,390 and is available in four trims: LX, EX, SX, and SX Touring. Even the top trim is attractively priced, starting at $35,790. That's enough of family-focused cars for the moment, though; let's talk about something fun. Best Sports Car for the Money Toyota They say that Miata is always the answer, but the Best Sports Car for the Money award goes to the 2026 Toyota GR86. With 228 hp, it outguns the 181-hp Mazda MX-5, and as a coupe rather than a convertible, it's more practical, too. With both cars starting around $31,000 this year, the Toyota is the easy choice. Best Midsize Car for the Money Honda Those who need a more spacious sedan may want to consider the Best Midsize Car for the Money, the 2026 Honda Accord, which is only $100 pricier than last year, starting at $28,395. That price undercuts the 2026 Toyota Camry, which starts at $29,000 in LE guise and has an eight-inch infotainment display, one inch smaller than the Accord's. Who says size doesn't matter? Best Midsize 2-Row SUV for the Money Nissan Following the success of the Kicks, Nissan wins another award, the Best 2-Row SUV for the Money, with the 2026 Murano ($41,670). Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers all four wheels in all three trims, delivering 241 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque to the asphalt. Best Midsize 3-Row SUV for the Money Kia Those who need more people-carrying capacity ought to take a look at the 2026 Kia Sorento ($32,390), winning the Best Midsize 3-Row SUV for the Money award. This is such a strong seller for the brand that Kia has been reluctant to launch its replacement. Best Midsize EV SUV for the Money Kristen Brown/Autoblog The winner of the Best Midsize Electric SUV for the Money award comes as no surprise — it's the 2026 Kia EV9, which costs $54,900 in base form. Despite being a first-generation EV, first seen as a concept in 2021 and entering production in 2023, the three-row EV is beautifully built and highly capable, with up to 309 miles of range possible with the Long Range RWD variant. Best Midsize Hybrid Car for the Money Toyota Sedans continue to perform well, and the Best Midsize Hybrid Car for the Money award in 2026 goes to the $29,100 2026 Toyota Camry. The entire Camry range is now electrified, and while that may have seemed risky for such a popular nameplate, the transition to hybrid power hasn't diminished the Camry's excellence. Best Midsize Hybrid SUV for the Money Kia The last Korean winner on the 2026 list is the 2026 Kia Sorento Hybrid, taking home the Best Midsize Hybrid SUV for the Money award. Though its styling may be quirky, it's $38,890 starting price and 34 mpg (combined) EPA rating make it a compelling choice in 2026. Best Midsize Plug-In Hybrid SUV for the Money Mazda Brimming with style and substance, the 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV has been named the Best Midsize Plug-In Hybrid SUV for the Money, despite price increases for the new model year. Yes, it exceeds 50 grand with a $50,495 starting price, but the CX-90 is also a 2025 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ winner, and you can't put a price on security. Best Large SUV for the Money Ford Nobody knows big SUVs and trucks like Detroit's Big Three, and it's the Blue Oval that wins Best Large SUV for the Money this year with the 2026 Ford Expedition. That extra size means extra strain on the wallet, but not much; the 2026 Expedition starts at $62,400. Best Minivan for the Money Honda The 2026 Honda Odyssey has won the Best Minivan for the Money award, beating the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica, and Kia Carnival. If the Odyssey's base MSRP of $42,795 is a little too much for you, the automaker has some pretty attractive lease deals for the family vehicle this month. Best Midsize Pickup Truck for the Money Toyota The penultimate award on this list is for the Best Midsize Pickup Truck, and the 2026 Toyota Tacoma is the winner, beating out competition from the Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Colorado, and GMC Canyon. With imposing looks, two powertrain options, and a base MSRP of $32,145, the Taco is an excellent option. Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for the Money Ford Motor Company Finally, the announcement we've all been waiting for: the Best Full-Size Pickup Truck for the Money award goes to the 2026 Ford F-150. Ford's F-Series trucks are best-sellers, and while recalls may have plagued the brand in 2025, the F-150 and its brethren remain prolific winners of both awards and buyers' hard-earned dollars. View the full article

There is so much racing that is going on in Daytona this week, leading up to the famed Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona which starts on Saturday. There have been a full week of races and practice so far, and the racing continues today with the MX-5 Cup that starts today. Check out the racing action below. Video Description: The Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by Michelin is the signature single-make series for Mazda Motorsports. MX-5 Cup offers more than $1 million in prize money and scholarships a year. The MX-5 Cup race cars start as complete MX-5 road cars from the Mazda Hiroshima, Japan factory before being transported to engineering development partner Flis Performance in Daytona Beach, Florida, where they are transformed into a race car. The process includes disassembly of the production car, welding and paint of a full roll cage and interior, and adding more than 250 motorsports-specific parts. Other components of the car, including the Mazda SKYACTIV 2.0 liter engine are sealed to ensure even competition and a cost-effective platform. // 2026 SCHEDULE // DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY – January 21-23 STREETS OF ST. PETERSBURG – February 27 – March 1 INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY – April 14-16 MID-OHIO SPORTS CAR COURSE – June 5-7 CANADIAN TIRE MOTORSPORT PARK – July 10-12 VIRGINIA INTERNATIONAL RACEWAY – August 21-23 INDIANAPOLIS MOTOR SPEEDWAY – September 18-20 MICHELIN RACEWAY ROAD ATLANTA – September 30 – October 2 The post FREE LIVESTREAM: 2026 IMSA Whelen Mazda MX-5 Cup at Daytona International Speedway | Race 1 | Daytona Beach, Florida appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

TKM Performance introduces a new water-jacketed billet modular block for the 5.4 and 5.8-liter Ford Modular platform.View the full article

2026 Triumph Tiger Sport 660 2026 Triumph Trident 660 Triumph has announced significant updates to its LAMS-approved Trident 660 and Tiger Sport 660 for the 2026 model year, with both models set to arrive in Australian dealerships from March 2026. The changes represent the most substantial revisions yet for Triumph’s 660cc LAMS range, covering engine […] The post Triumph updates Trident 660 and Tiger Sport 660 LAMS models for 2026 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Aimed at providing women-oriented education, networking, and training, The Women Who Wander program has grown to be one of the most exciting and popular parts of Overland Expo. In addition to the Women Who Wander education opportunities offered throughout the event, there will be a Women Who Wander networking event and brunch sponsored by MAXXIS Tires on Sunday at 11:00 am. We will have mimosas ready for you to join us for a morning of networking Q&A with a host of experienced women involved in the overland community, a themed bingo game, and a presentation and Q&A with special guest Jess Stone. The event will take place at the Oasis Bar and Food Court, sponsored by Nokian Tyres. Special Guest: Jess Stone Jess Stone is riding around the world with her White Swiss Shepherd, Whimsy, on the back of her motorcycle, sharing the adventure with her husband Greg, to road-test RUFFLY gear and raise $100,000 for the nonprofit Girl Up. Their adventure has taken them from the Arctic Ocean to the tip of South America, and that’s just one leg of the journey. With a trip across the western US planned for this spring and summer, Jess, Whimsy, and Greg will be headed to Africa to continue their around the world trip. Their adventure so far has included some epic highlights and some tragic lows along the way. Come ready to hear Jess’s story and bring your questions. BUY TICKETS View the full article

WorldSBK 2026 January Jerez Test – Day One January 21, 2026 The 2026 MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship season officially began this week at the Circuito de Jerez – Ángel Nieto, with WorldSBK and WorldSSP riders returning to the track for the first private test of the year. Persistent rain throughout the day significantly restricted […] The post WorldSBK Testing gets underway in Jerez – Day One Recap appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Can-Am, an iconic brand of BRP Inc. (TSX/NASDAQ: DOO), has completed the 2026 Dakar Rally with another standout performance, as factory racer Kyle Chaney and his co-driver Jacob Argubright finished second overall in Chaney’s Dakar Rally debut. In addition, Can-Am’s factory-supported drivers secured six of the top ten overall positions and five stage victories. These results reinforce the Can-Am Maverick R as one of the highest performing and most durable racing side-by-side vehicles (SSVs) in the world. “Our team made huge strides this year,” said Jean-François Leclerc, BRP Race Manager. “From the racers to the mechanics and our partners at South Racing, everyone gave their maximum effort and rose to the occasion. With multiple stage wins and consistent podium results, we demonstrated the strength and reliability of the Can-Am Maverick R platform. With that said, we know there’s more ahead, and we’re committed to pushing harder to reclaim the top step of the podium.” Performance Under Pressure Can-Am’s 2026 Dakar Rally effort was highlighted by: ● Dakar rookie Kyle Chaney finished second place overall and scored a stage five victory ● Can-Am swept the podium on stages seven and 12 ● Joao Monteiro finished fourth overall and won stage 13 ● Jeremias Gonzalez Ferioli finished fifth overall, collecting wins on stages seven and 12 ● Francisco “Chaleco” Lopez finished sixth overall, with a win on stage nine ● Can-Am South Racing drivers accounted for six of the top ten overall finishers ● Proven reliability over 8,000+ kilometers of extreme desert terrain In his first Dakar Rally campaign, Chaney drove with the maturity of a veteran, pushing the pace when it mattered most, mitigating risk and demonstrating relentless consistency to secure second position in the overall. The highlight of Chaney’s rally was a win on stage five, where he put on an incredible display of driving and navigation skills on the second half of the marathon stage. With the second fastest overall finishing time of 56 hours, 13 minutes and 35 seconds, Chaney’s performance solidified his position as a front-runner at rally raid’s highest level. “This was my first year at Dakar, and I didn’t really know what to expect,” said Chaney. “Now that all the stages are done and we’re here at the finish line, I know what to expect for next year. I’m happy that we finished on the podium. We put some good stages together, and we also had some bad stages, but we stayed consistent. We’re going to go back to the drawing board and come out swinging next year.” The Can-Am Factory South Racing Team celebrates another Dakar Rally podium finish. BUILT TO GO FURTHER FASTER With another Dakar Rally successfully completed, Can-Am leaves Saudi Arabia with valuable development insights and continued confidence in the Maverick R platform. The team’s achievements are also a testament to the performance and reliability of the Maverick R’s Rotax powerplant. The turbocharged triple-cylinder engine powered the team through some of the most demanding off-road racing conditions in the world. The Dakar Rally and other elite off-road competitions serve as the ultimate proving grounds for Can-Am’s racing side-by-side development. Widely regarded as one of the most demanding tests of durability and performance in motorsports, these races validate the Can-Am Maverick R as a benchmark racing side-by-side machine, capable of delivering sustained performance in extreme conditions. The same Maverick R platform proven through racing directly informs the production vehicle riders can buy today, translating race-tested durability, control, and engineering into real-world riding confidence. The critical support Fans can revisit highlights and behind-the-scenes moments from the Dakar Rally across Can-Am Off-Road social channels (@canamoffroad and @canamfactoryteam). The post Can-Am Factory Racer Kyle Chaney Scores Second Overall at the 2026 Dakar Rally appeared first on UTV Action Magazine. View the full article

Hailie Deegan is getting back behind the wheel of a stock car. She has signed a deal to compete for the 2026 ARCA Menards Series West championship with Bill McAnally Racing (BMR). She will pilot the No. 16 Chevrolet with sponsorship from NAPA and Monster Energy. Although she has previous experience in NASCAR, Deegan spent the 2025 season competing full-time as an Indy NXT driver for HMD ...Keep readingView the full article

Unveiled this month, Honda’s Base Station Prototype is a compact, towable travel trailer aimed at simplifying camping for families and everyday adventurers. With an emphasis on ease of use and smart design, it reflects a more approachable take on overland travel that removes much of the intimidation found in larger rigs. Conceived by Honda’s U.S. R&D teams in California and Ohio, the same group responsible for the inventive Motocompacto e-scooter, the Base Station Prototype reflects a design-first approach rooted in practicality and creativity. Large windows, a pop-up roof, and a clean, modern aesthetic balance form and function, resulting in a trailer that feels thoughtfully engineered rather than overbuilt. READ MORE: Sponsors & Exhibitors at Overland Expo SoCal 2026 The biggest headline is weight and size. Base Station is engineered to be towed by compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, as well as EVs such as the Honda Prologue. For overlanders who want to stay nimble and avoid stepping up to a full-size truck, that alone makes this prototype worth paying attention to. Honda’s well-known packaging philosophy shows up immediately once you’re parked. The trailer fits in a standard garage, yet opens into a bright, flexible interior with five large side windows and a pop-up roof that creates roughly seven feet of standing room. A top-hinged rear tailgate opens the cabin directly to camp, making the space feel connected to the outdoors rather than boxed in. Sleeping arrangements are smart and family-friendly. A futon-style couch converts into a queen-size bed, with an optional bunk for kids, allowing the Base Station to comfortably sleep four without feeling crowded. Where things get interesting is modularity. The prototype shown includes an external kitchen with running water and an induction cooktop, an exterior shower, air conditioning, and programmable ambient lighting around the windows that doubles as campsite illumination at night. Power comes from an integrated lithium battery, inverter, and solar panels, with the option to plug into shore power or a Honda generator for longer stays. The Base Station is still a prototype, and Honda hasn’t shared pricing or production timing. But the intent is clear. This isn’t a hardcore off-road trailer. It’s a thoughtfully designed basecamp for families, weekend explorers, and light overlanders who value efficiency, flexibility, and ease of use over excess. View the full article

Unveiled this month, Honda’s Base Station Prototype is a compact, towable travel trailer aimed at simplifying camping for families and everyday adventurers. With an emphasis on ease of use and smart design, it reflects a more approachable take on overland travel that removes much of the intimidation found in larger rigs. Conceived by Honda’s U.S. R&D teams in California and Ohio, the same group responsible for the inventive Motocompacto e-scooter, the Base Station Prototype reflects a design-first approach rooted in practicality and creativity. Large windows, a pop-up roof, and a clean, modern aesthetic balance form and function, resulting in a trailer that feels thoughtfully engineered rather than overbuilt. READ MORE: Sponsors & Exhibitors at Overland Expo SoCal 2026 The biggest headline is weight and size. Base Station is engineered to be towed by compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4, as well as EVs such as the Honda Prologue. For overlanders who want to stay nimble and avoid stepping up to a full-size truck, that alone makes this prototype worth paying attention to. Honda’s well-known packaging philosophy shows up immediately once you’re parked. The trailer fits in a standard garage, yet opens into a bright, flexible interior with five large side windows and a pop-up roof that creates roughly seven feet of standing room. A top-hinged rear tailgate opens the cabin directly to camp, making the space feel connected to the outdoors rather than boxed in. Sleeping arrangements are smart and family-friendly. A futon-style couch converts into a queen-size bed, with an optional bunk for kids, allowing the Base Station to comfortably sleep four without feeling crowded. Where things get interesting is modularity. The prototype shown includes an external kitchen with running water and an induction cooktop, an exterior shower, air conditioning, and programmable ambient lighting around the windows that doubles as campsite illumination at night. Power comes from an integrated lithium battery, inverter, and solar panels, with the option to plug into shore power or a Honda generator for longer stays. The Base Station is still a prototype, and Honda hasn’t shared pricing or production timing. But the intent is clear. This isn’t a hardcore off-road trailer. It’s a thoughtfully designed basecamp for families, weekend explorers, and light overlanders who value efficiency, flexibility, and ease of use over excess. View the full article

Honda says it will discontinue production of its current fuel cell system at Fuel Cell System Manufacturing LLC in Brownstown, Michigan, before the end of 2026. The facility is a joint venture with General Motors, and the move signals a major pivot in how Honda plans to build and scale hydrogen hardware in the United States. What Honda Is Ending And What Comes NextFuel Cell System Manufacturing LLC was set up to produce a shared Honda GM fuel cell system, and Honda says production of the current model will stop after the two companies agreed to end manufacturing at the plant. Honda says it will transition to a next generation fuel cell system it is developing independently. The company has previously outlined goals for that next system centered on lower cost and higher durability, with mass production targeted for 2027, which lines up with the end date for the current US built unit. This is also a meaningful change because the Brownstown plant represented one of the most concrete examples of large automaker cooperation in hydrogen production. Ending output there does not mean Honda is abandoning fuel cells, but it does suggest the near term market is not moving fast enough to justify keeping the current joint venture production going. It also adds pressure on Honda to make its next system cheaper and easier to deploy across multiple use cases if it wants hydrogen to become more than a niche play in passenger vehicles and commercial equipment. How It Fits Honda’s Broader StrategyHonda is being forced to balance long term technology bets with immediate market realities. Buyers are focused on monthly costs, and automakers are under pressure to justify expensive new powertrains when price sensitivity is rising, which ties into how Honda has discussed the affordability squeeze in its own messaging. At the same time, Honda’s core business still runs on high volume family vehicles, where incentives and leasing can be a faster lever than future tech. That is why shoppers pay close attention to offers like the Odyssey lease deal and Pilot lease deals, because they reflect what Honda is prioritizing right now on dealership lots. Why It MattersStopping production at the US joint venture plant is a reset moment for Honda’s hydrogen timeline. If the next generation system arrives on schedule and truly lowers cost, Honda can re enter the market with a cleaner story and a stronger business case. If it slips, fuel cells risk falling further behind battery electric and hybrid solutions that are already scaling faster. View the full article

After two years away from the driver’s seat, Eric Gustafson made a powerful return to Pro Modified competition at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, quickly proving that the time away has done nothing to hinder his performance. The 2020 NMCA Xtreme Pro Mod champion qualified No. 5 in a loaded Pro Mod field of 80 cars, posting a 3.576-second pass at 210.01 mph in his ProCharger-equipped, Coast Packing Co. “Lard Machine” ‘69 Camaro. Gustafson also captured the $5,000 ProLine Racing “Off the Trailer” bonus in the opening qualifying session, immediately establishing himself as a front-runner. “I was pleasantly surprised,” Gustafson said of his return to driving duties. “It was better than I thought, maybe because I had no expectations – which is not easy for me. As a very competitive person, it’s hard to temper your expectations; but given the time away, it’s an opportunity to reflect and just be grateful for the opportunity to get back behind the wheel. We’re having a good time and letting the chips fall where they may.” Gustafson’s confidence only grew as the weekend progressed. After making a 3.59-second pass during testing — the quickest run of his career at the time — he followed with four consecutive career-best runs, living solidly in the 3.50s throughout qualifying and eliminations. “To jump back in after two years and make my four quickest passes in a row felt pretty damn good,” said Gustafson. “Any time you have a car that is performing well, it allows you as a driver to stay focused and slow down in terms of what’s coming naturally to you. You don’t have to worry about if the car is going to go down (the track). All you have to worry about is driving. That helps tremendously with your psyche and approach.” That momentum carried into eliminations, where Gustafson defeated reigning PDRA Pro Boost champion Ty Tutterow in the opening round with another 3.57-second run, then followed up with a second-round victory over Brandon Snider with a 3.590. Gustafson’s day came to an end in the quarterfinals on a narrow -.003 redlight against Kevin Rivenbark. “You know, we feel pretty good about what we have, but first round of eliminations, I honestly didn’t know if it was gonna go down or not,” Gustafson admitted. “Against Snider, I felt more locked in. When I went up against Rivenbark, I honestly didn’t feel like I pushed it as hard – it just picked up as the weather was getting better. It didn’t look red to me, but it was red on the scoreboard, and that’s all that matters. I feel like I let my guys down, knowing we had a car that could win the race. It’s disappointing, but that’s just part of racing.” In addition to his individual performance, Gustafson credited the strength of his team and the benefit of running alongside teammate Jason Lee, noting the value of gathering data from both ProCharger and screw-blown combinations throughout the weekend. “I think you can learn from different combinations – what’s working, what’s not working,” said Gustafson. “The more data you have, where you can apply it, figure out how each one wants to go down. While the combinations are different on paper, the more opportunities you have to compare data on the track, the better off you are.” Following the Snowbirds, Gustafson sits sixth in the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service points standings, just one point behind Kye Kelley for the fifth spot. It’s a familiar position for a driver who already has a Pro Mod championship on his résumé. “I think in some aspects, people may have forgotten who I am, but I haven’t,” Gustafson said. “I know what I’m capable of, and I feel I belong just as much as anybody else out there. I don’t want to sound like I’m coming off cocky, and it’s not a slight to anybody. We’re racing against the best drivers out there, and I have a high amount respect for everybody. But you give me more time and more opportunity to prepare, plan, and test, I’ll just get that much better honing my skills.” With the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission up next January 22-25, Gustafson and the Coast Packing Co. team head into the second race of the Winter Series with a ton of momentum, confidence, and maybe a few surprises in store. In pre-race testing, the team has already run an incredible 3.537-second elapsed time. “We’re always trying to get better and certainly have some new things we’ve done that we’ll keep to ourselves for the time being,” said Gustafson. “Nothing really changes to my approach mentally. I’m gonna go out there and have fun and know that I’m very fortunate and grateful to do this again. I’m just going to go out there, kick some ass, and let it rip.” This story was originally published on January 21, 2026. The post Eric Gustafson Feeling Confident Back in Driver’s Seat Going Into U.S. Street Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Can-Am once again reinforces Maverick R as a benchmark racing side-by-side with stage wins, and critical development insights across 8,000 kilometers of one of the world’s toughest rallies. Valcourt, Quebec – January 21, 2026 – Can-Am, an iconic brand of BRP Inc. (TSX/NASDAQ: DOO), has completed the 2026 Dakar Rally with another standout performance, as factory racer Kyle Chaney and his co-driver Jacob Argubright finished second overall in Chaney’s Dakar Rally debut. In addition, Can-Am’s factory-supported drivers secured six of the top ten overall positions and five stage victories. These results reinforce the Can-Am Maverick R as one of the highest performing and most durable racing side-by-side vehicles (SSVs) in the world. The Can-Am Factory South Racing Team celebrates another Dakar Rally podium finish. “Our team made huge strides this year,” said Jean-François Leclerc, BRP Race Manager. “From the racers to the mechanics and our partners at South Racing, everyone gave their maximum effort and rose to the occasion. With multiple stage wins and consistent podium results, we demonstrated the strength and reliability of the Can-Am Maverick R platform. With that said, we know there’s more ahead, and we’re committed to pushing harder to reclaim the top step of the podium.” Performance Under Pressure Can-Am’s 2026 Dakar Rally effort was highlighted by: Dakar rookie Kyle Chaney finished second place overall and scored a stage five victory Can-Am swept the podium on stages seven and 12 Joao Monteiro finished fourth overall and won stage 13 Jeremias Gonzalez Ferioli finished fifth overall, collecting wins on stages seven and 12 Francisco “Chaleco” Lopez finished sixth overall, with a win on stage nine Can-Am South Racing drivers accounted for six of the top ten overall finishers Proven reliability over 8,000+ kilometers of extreme desert terrain In his first Dakar Rally campaign, Chaney drove with the maturity of a veteran, pushing the pace when it mattered most, mitigating risk and demonstrating relentless consistency to secure second position in the overall. The highlight of Chaney’s rally was a win on stage five, where he put on an incredible display of driving and navigation skills on the second half of the marathon stage. With the second fastest overall finishing time of 56 hours, 13 minutes and 35 seconds, Chaney’s performance solidified his position as a front-runner at rally raid’s highest level. Kyle Chaney “This was my first year at Dakar, and I didn’t really know what to expect,” said Chaney. “Now that all the stages are done and we’re here at the finish line, I know what to expect for next year. I’m happy that we finished on the podium. We put some good stages together and we also had some bad stages, but we stayed consistent. We’re going to go back to the drawing board and come out swinging next year.” Built to Go Further With another Dakar Rally successfully completed, Can-Am leaves Saudi Arabia with valuable development insights and continued confidence in the Maverick R platform. The team’s achievements are also a testament to the performance and reliability of the Maverick R’s Rotax powerplant. The turbocharged triple-cylinder engine powered the team through some of the most demanding off-road racing conditions in the world. Can-Am Maverick R The Dakar Rally and other elite off-road competitions serve as the ultimate proving grounds for Can-Am’s racing side-by-side development. Widely regarded as one of the most demanding tests of durability and performance in motorsports, these races validate the Can-Am Maverick R as a benchmark racing side-by-side machine, capable of delivering sustained performance in extreme conditions. The same Maverick R platform proven through racing directly informs the production vehicle riders can buy today, translating race-tested durability, control, and engineering into real-world riding confidence. The critical support Fans can revisit highlights and behind-the-scenes moments from the Dakar Rally across Can-Am Off-Road social channels (@canamoffroad and @canamfactoryteam). About BRP BRP Inc. is a global leader in the world of powersports products, propulsion systems and boats built on over 80 years of ingenuity and intensive consumer focus. Through its portfolio of industry-leading and distinctive brands featuring Ski-Doo and Lynx snowmobiles, Sea-Doo watercraft and pontoons, Can-Am on and off-road vehicles, Quintrex boats and Rotax marine propulsion systems as well as Rotax engines for karts and recreational aircraft, BRP unlocks exhilarating adventures and provides access to experiences across different playgrounds. The Company completes its lines of products with a dedicated parts, accessories and apparel portfolio to fully optimize the riding experience. Committed to growing responsibly, BRP is developing electric models for its existing product lines. Headquartered in Quebec, Canada, BRP had annual sales of CA$7.8 billion from over 130 countries and employed approximately 16,500 driven, resourceful people as of January 31, 2025. www.brp.com @BRPNews Ski-Doo, Lynx, Sea-Doo, Can-Am, Rotax, Quintrex and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. The post Can-Am Factory Racer Kyle Chaney Scores Second Overall at the 2026 Dakar Rally appeared first on UTV Guide. View the full article

Top Fuel pilot Jasmine Salinas is one of several professional drag racers featured in a new docuseries co-produced by VICE TV and NHRA. Chasing Speed premieres this evening on VICE TV. The six-episode series gives viewers an inside look at the sport of drag racing, following teams and drivers as they chase glory throughout the 2025 NHRA season. Each hour-long episode will showcase the high-intensity action on the track as well as what it takes behind the scenes to operate one of the most powerful machines on the planet. Jasmine’s storyline will connect the highs and lows she experienced during her tumultuous sophomore season. “I’m excited to watch it along with everyone else,” Jasmine remarked. “It means a lot to me that they chose to highlight some of my drag racing journey. Most importantly, I’m happy that new audiences will get to see what makes this sport so special.” After an encouraging start to the season in 2025, Jasmine had to sideline operations for a large portion of the year to seek funding. The spirited young driver focused on making the most out of every opportunity to sit behind the wheel of her 12,000-horsepower dragster. She achieved four semifinal finishes in just six events last season. Chasing Speed pulls the curtain back on the raw speed, pressure, and personalities of NHRA Drag Racing. The new six-part docuseries premieres Wednesday, January 21, at 9:00 p.m. ET on VICE TV. Episodes will be shared on VICE’s YouTube channel 24 hours after initial airing. For more information: https://www.nhra.com/news/2025/chasing-speed-six-part-nhra-drag-racing-docuseries-air-vice-tv. This story was originally published on January 21, 2026. The post New VICE TV Docuseries ‘Chasing Speed’ to Feature Jasmine Salinas first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Slow and steady wins the race?Under normal circumstances, we only hear about Germany’s infamous Nürburgring track when a supercar, hypercar, or some obscure exotic vehicle shatters some sort of record. In this instance, however, it’s quite the opposite. Ligier, a French automaker, sent its JS50 Revo D+ microcar across the border with the sole purpose of taking the title of slowest lap time. Ligier For us Americans, our only exposure to Ligier is likely through its performance models, but the brand also did a 20-year stint in the Formula 1 World Championship. The French automaker’s Formula 1 team was last active in 1996, 30 years ago. These days, Ligier develops and produces a number of vehicles, including microcars and minibuses, and features a division dedicated to restoring historic race cars. While the manufacturer may not compete in Formula 1 these days, Ligier still builds high-performance models, like the JS2 RS. A microcar with a 28-horsepower engine under the hoodIf you think the JS50 Revo D+ looks more like a child’s toy than an actual car, you’re partially right. In Europe, the microcar isn’t actually considered a car. It comes powered by a 0.5-liter diesel engine that tops out at eight horsepower and 20 lb-ft of torque. That performance gives it a top speed of just 28 mph, which technically makes it a quadricycle. As a result, French residents can drive the JS50 on public roadways starting at 14 years old, no license required. French journalists Nicolas Meunier and Martin Coulomb set out for Germany's Nürburgring in a JS50, earning over 75 mpg along the way. In total, Ligier brought three vehicles to the track, including the diesel-powered JS50 and two electrified versions, one of which was capable of hitting 47 mph. Zoom, zoom. The diesel-powered JS50 Revo D+ managed the slowest time, coming in at 28 minutes and 25.8 seconds, officially giving it the title. The electric version was around 30 seconds quicker, and the more powerful EV managed to complete a lap in 19 minutes, 53.4 seconds. Take note that while the JS50 Revo D+ now holds the title of slowest lap time, it could have potentially taken even longer to complete the run if it had made the attempt on stock tires. The Ligier JS2 RS brings a new level of performanceWhile Ligier’s Formula 1 team hasn’t seen the track in 30 years, the French automaker still has several performance-driven models on its roster. Ligier introduced the JS2 R in 2018 for the brand’s 50th anniversary. That same nameplate took second place in the 1975 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Today, there are more than 120 examples of the JS2 R on track around the world. Ligier Automotive View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The JS2 RS was introduced last year and builds on the success and performance of the JS2 R. Under the hood lies Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission. That combination delivers 650 horsepower and a top speed of roughly 186 mph. The new model gets an aerodynamic package that adds functional flair to the track-ready car, including a carbon splitter and rear diffuser. While it won’t be competing in Formula 1 anytime soon, and it isn’t street legal, you can get a JS2 RS for just shy of $300,000. Final thoughts Heading out to the Nürburgring track typically means gunning for high speeds and quick lap times, two things EVs have been excelling at in recent years. While Ligier builds some performance models, it was the JS50 microcar that stole both the spotlight and the title of the car with the slowest lap time. It’s a breath of fresh air, frankly, considering all we normally hear about is models that post the fastest lap times. It isn’t often an automaker sets out to get the slowest time, so I have to applaud the French journalist and Ligier’s ambition in doing so! View the full article

Rewriting the EV RoadmapMercedes-Benz faced a lukewarm reception to its electric vehicles, with U.S. sales of its EQ lineup plunging 54 percent last year. Even so, the brand has no plans to abandon its EV push. Instead, the German marque has recalibrated its EQ portfolio to better suit market realities—and, thanks to localized production at its Tuscaloosa plant in Alabama, it can also sidestep the hefty import tariffs. FRAME detailed how the Tuscaloosa facility has been assembling the EQS SUV since 2022, with battery packs manufactured at a nearby plant in Bibb County. The EQS SUV, which starts at roughly $90,000, is a full-size luxury vehicle that effectively serves as the brand’s all-electric flagship alternative to the fuel-fed GLS. Inside the Alabama Assembly LineThe Tuscaloosa plant is outfitted as one would expect from a modern automotive assembly facility, including extensive automation and robotic paint operations. Production of EQ-branded vehicles also makes use of self-guided transport vehicles to move battery housing modules weighing approximately 900 pounds, along with a dedicated lift system that positions the high-voltage battery pack to simplify the installation of smaller modules. In addition, KUKA robots are employed to assemble critical electric drivetrain components. On the assembly line, workers assist robotic systems in precisely aligning a subframe that houses the electric drive unit over the installed battery pack. Based on the current online configurator, the 2026 EQS SUV is offered exclusively with a dual-motor setup, with the range-topping 550 4MATIC variant producing 536 horsepower, enabling a 0–60 mph time of 4.6 seconds. During quality inspections, technicians use handheld tablets to log and document data in real time. The plant also relies on Mercedes-Benz’s MO360 digital production ecosystem—developed in collaboration with Microsoft—which connects manufacturing facilities worldwide into a single, unified digital network designed to enhance efficiency and operational flexibility. Mercedes-Benz The Cost of Going ElectricWith affordability becoming a growing concern in the U.S. market, selling electric vehicles remains a challenge, especially now that the $7,500 tax credit is gone. Mercedes' most affordable EV currently offered stateside is the EQB SUV, which starts at around $53,000. That places it roughly in line with luxury rivals such as the Audi Q4 e-tron, though still well above popular competitors like the Tesla Model Y. However, investing in a dedicated U.S. production line for the EQ lineup appears to be a step in the right direction, aligning the brand more closely with local industrial policy while improving logistics and supply chain. In addition to the EQS SUV, other electric models produced at the Alabama facility include the EQE SUV and the Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV. Mercedes-Benz View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Audi has taken a major step from long range promise to public reality, unveiling its first Formula 1 car presentation on YouTube as the brand prepares for its 2026 works debut. The launch was less about a deep technical reveal and more about staking a clear identity, with the team using a global livestream to introduce the look, branding, and direction of its first season on the grid. What Audi Showed On YouTubeThe reveal centered on the team’s debut era design, giving fans their first official look at how Audi wants to be seen in Formula 1. That matters because 2026 brings a new rules cycle, and early car launches are often as much about message control as they are about hardware detail. Audi used the moment to signal that the transition from the Sauber operation into a full factory program is no longer abstract, it is becoming a tangible product with a defined visual signature and a clear public launch cadence. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article How This Fits Audi’s F1 TimelineAudi’s path to this moment has been building for years, starting when it first confirmed it would join Formula 1 and committed to entering under the new 2026 regulations, a move that shifted the project from rumor to long term plan. Since then, the team has steadily moved from concept to execution, with leadership hires, facilities planning, and public milestones designed to show momentum. Why Leadership And Brand Identity Matter NowThis YouTube launch lands at a time when Audi is still building credibility as a future contender, and leadership signals are part of that credibility. The project has been reinforced by senior staffing moves intended to import proven race winning structure into a new works environment. With a new era coming, Audi needs more than an eye catching livery, it needs a program that can recruit talent, make fast technical decisions, and develop a culture that can survive the pressure of year one. That difference between everyday usability and elite performance theater is also part of what makes this launch interesting, because Audi is trying to make racing relevance feel connected to the vehicles people actually drive, a tension you can see in how the brand balances character and practicality in our 2025 Audi SQ5 review. View the full article

When it comes to the motorcycle world, the Honda name carries a weight that few others can match. It’s a reputation built on the "Power of Dreams," but reinforced by the reality of bulletproof engineering. Whether it’s the air-cooled thumpers of the '70s or the high-revving inline-fours of the moder... View the full article

Style as StrategyMini delivered a strong sales performance in 2025, posting a 17.7 percent year-on-year increase to 288,290 units sold. Building on that momentum, the brand is further enhancing the appeal of the Mini Cooper with the new Paul Smith Edition – created in collaboration with British fashion designer Sir Paul Smith – which is now rolling out in certain markets. The special edition was initially unveiled during the Japan Mobility Show 2025, where other compact vehicles – such as the Honda Super-ONE – also made appearances. It draws from Paul Smith’s “Classic with a Twist” design philosophy, an approach intended to reflect Mini's “playful, optimistic, and independent spirit” through cosmetic-focused changes. Mini What’s in the PackageExterior-wise, the Paul Smith Edition is offered in three paint finishes: Midnight Black, Inspired White, and Statement Gray. One of its most distinctive visual cues is the use of Nottingham Green, which can be specified for the roof to create a signature contrast. Models finished in Midnight Black, however, use a black roof accented by contrasting gloss and matte black stripes. Inside, the updates remain consistent across all variants. The cabin features Nightshade Blue seats paired with black knitted surfaces. Signature Paul Smith elements include the “Every day is a new beginning” script etched into the door sills and the designer’s name positioned at the six o’clock mark on the steering wheel. Completing the interior treatment is Paul Smith’s trademark “rabbit” motif, embedded into the floor mats. Mini The Catch for American BuyersMini has launched the Paul Smith Edition first with the all-electric version of its iconic compact car. For U.S. buyers, the electric Mini Cooper is currently not offered, largely because the model is primarily built in China via parent company BMW's joint venture with Great Wall Motor (GWM), subjecting it to higher import tariffs. While Mini has previously expressed interest in bringing the electric Cooper—and the related Aceman—stateside, any such move would likely depend on future market and trade conditions. For now, the only fully electric model available to American buyers is the Countryman SE ALL4. However, the Paul Smith Edition package will still reach the U.S. market through gas-fed variants of the Mini Cooper S, including the two-door, four-door, and Convertible models. The company has confirmed that these versions – powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 201 horsepower – are scheduled to go on sale in late summer of this year. Mini View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

What the heck is NART, anyway?If there is one figure apart from Enzo Ferrari himself that can be seen as pivotal to the history of the prancing horse brand, it would probably be none other than Luigi Chinetti. Originally an accomplished racecar driver, Chinetti convinced Enzo himself in 1946 that he could sell his cars in America, an encounter that led him to be the official importer of Ferrari cars to the United States. Driven by his commitment and passion for the Prancing Horse and his belief in the potential of budding American racing talent, Chinetti started the North American Racing Team (NART) in 1958, a private team that saw notable success in endurance racing. NART helped promote Ferrari in the United States through its success in marquee races; its 250 GTOs won the 1963 Daytona Continental, the 1964 Daytona 2000 KM, while a 250 LM won the 1965 24 Hours of Le Mans. In addition, it won third place in the 1967 24 Hours of Daytona, and was commemorated by the naming of the 365 GTB/4 "Daytona," as Ferrari cars earned first, second, and third place. RM Sotheby's View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article A very special DaytonaAlthough this Daytona looks very different from the ones you are probably used to seeing, this vehicle, which is set to appear at RM Sotheby's auction at the Palm Beach Cavallino Classic on February 14, has a fascinating backstory tied to the NART team principal. While contemporary car designers penned more angular "wedge" shapes for sports cars in the 1970s, Chinetti ordered car designer Giovanni Michelottito to replace the curvaceous bodies of about five 365 GTB/4 Daytonas with new shells to create these: the Michelotti NART Spiders. Per the auctioneers, this particular Spider, which bears chassis number 14299, first originated as a standard 365 GTB/4 Daytona coupe with air conditioning and power steering, which Chinetti took in from its original owner as part of a trade in the mid-70s. In 1976, Chinetti sent it to Michelotti for the rebody. Upon delivery in 1977, the Spider was finished in a unique two-tone livery of dark blue over gray, with an orange leather interior, original Veglia Borletti gauges, a set of five-spoke alloy wheels, a tan soft top, and a body-color removable hardtop. As for powertrain, the NART Spider retains the original powertrain of the 365 GTB/4 Daytona, a Weber-carbureted 4.4-liter V12 that Ferrari claims produces about 352 horsepower. According to RM Sotheby's, this particular Spider was a gift from Chinetti to his wife, Marion, whose name is emblazoned on the beltline of each door. RM Sotheby's View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article This particular vehicle spent a lot of time being presented at shows throughout its life. In 1980, Chinetti loaned the “Marion Spider” to Michelotti, who presented it on his stand at that year's Turin Motor Show, which was followed by participation in a two-year exhibition at the Le Mans Museum in France, then by an appearance at the La Baule Concours d’Elegance in 1984. Unfortunately, the spider's namesake had passed away by the time Marion's Spider came back to the U.S., where it was sold to multiple different owners over the years. In 1985, the Spider was bought by Los Angeles dealer Marty Yacobian, and in January 1990, the car was sold to a Florida-based dealer. It was then sold to Marv Tonkin, brother of the well-known Oregon-based Ferrari dealer Ron Tonkin, who then sold it to acclaimed Ferrari collector Jon Shirley. The former Microsoft executive kept it as part of his collection for 22 years, and under his ownership, the car was certified by Ferrari Classiche with an Attestation of Historical Interest. In August 2013, the car was acquired by "another prominent Ferrari collector," who then passed it to the current owner in the summer of 2019. Final thoughtsAccording to RM Sotheby's, this 1971 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona NART Spider by Michelotti is set to appear at RM Sotheby's auction at the Palm Beach Cavallino Classic on February 14, where it is estimated to fetch anywhere from $600,000 to $750,000. According to a history report issued by the auctioneers, the car appeared at a previous RM Sotheby's auction; specifically, the 2019 Scottsdale auction, where it hammered at around their $600,000-$650,000 estimate, at $605,000, or $670,500 with buyer's premium. Given this car’s provenance of incredible owners and the incredible backstory behind its existence, this is a fantastic opportunity to not only own a Daytona, but something fairly unique. While a Daytona and this may be two different cups of tea for two completely different types of people, it should be emphasized that while it isn't every day that you'd encounter a proper Ferrari Daytona, it's rarer to see a Daytona NART Spider like this IRL. View the full article

Hyundai’s only truck in the United States is still the compact Santa Cruz, but more are coming before the end of the decade, and these are expected to be proper body-on-frame models; the Santa Cruz has a car-based unibody design. In designing these new pickups, Hyundai seems committed to introducing some of the coolest truck features. We’ve already seen plans for a midgate, and now the automaker has filed a patent for a removable roof for one or more future trucks. It’s a rare feature in the pickup world, although Jeep and GM have both implemented something similar. Related: Hyundai Has a Cool Idea to Make Its New Truck Stand Out Open-Air Off-Roading At Its Best H While a sunroof provides some degree of natural light into the cabin, a removable roof completely transforms the outdoor experience. Hyundai’s patent—first discovered by CarBuzz and filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office—focuses on the sealing mechanism of the roof panel. The automaker highlights blocking external noise (when the roof panel is attached) and moisture as potential issues its roof panel overcomes. It’s a manually-removable panel, so there are no complex electronics adding weight to worry about. Presumably, the panel can be easily removed and stored when not in use. Besides the roof, the patent also mentions removable doors, which is something most pickups don’t offer at all. The Jeep Gladiator is an exception, and while GMC’s Hummer EV has removable roof panels, its doors can’t be removed. S It's not known whether one or more of Hyundai's future pickups will get the removable doors and roof, but a good candidate would be the expected midsized, body-on-frame pickup that will battle the Jeep Gladiator and Toyota Tacoma. This new pickup is expected to arrive before 2030. Related: I Drove the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz & 2025 Ford Maverick, Which One is Best? Here's My Brutally Honest Review Why It Matters H Hyundai—and by extension, the Hyundai Group—isn’t known for its prowess in the truck segment. In this category, perceived durability from trusted brands like Ford, Ram, Chevrolet, and Toyota drives sales more than perhaps any other factor. To play with the big boys, the Koreans really need to think outside the box. The Kia Tasman was a first attempt to do that. A proper body-on-frame pickup, the Tasman boasts bizarre styling quite unlike any other pickup. But sales haven’t been great so far, so Kia’s gamble hasn’t paid off. Instead of wild styling, Hyundai seems to be turning to innovation and practicality to set apart its future trucks, and that's not a bad idea. And, rather than try to beat America’s mighty Big 3 in the towing and hauling stakes, Hyundai can set itself apart with fresh technologies and features that change how people use their trucks. View the full article

Roush Performance may be well known for supercharged extremism, but it can show restraint, and the return of its packages for the 2026 Ford F-150 is proof. Thanks to this restraint, pricing isn't too bad, either. Available for the XLT or Lariat trims, Roush offers base and Premium packages for $18,995 and $24,995, respectively. Obviously, those prices exclude the truck itself, which carries a $44,695 MSRP in XLT form and a $59,560 starting price as a Lariat model. For Roush's added premium, you get a truck that's taller, wider, and louder, thanks to several small but serious upgrades. Let's take a closer look. Roush Gives the F-150 More Brawn Roush Performance View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The most impactful change is evident at the front, where a new high-flow grille with integrated lighting (Premium package only) and a Roush script makes the truck look wider. And the truck actually is a little wider, too, with fender flares being added. These also have amber lighting and blend well with a new front bumper cover, while a functional vented hood shows that Roush's package isn't just about posing. The company also fits a performance coilover suspension system that raises the ride height by two inches, and paired with 20-inch satin black off-road wheels wrapped in 33-inch General Tire Grabber A/TX rubber, makes the F-150 more off-road capable. Roush Performance View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Other highlights include a cat-back performance exhaust with branded tips, fender extractor badges, and new "R" puddle lamps. There's also a new hitch cover, completing the exterior add-ons. That brings us to the cabin, where Roush gives the XLT and Lariat a little bit of King Ranch flavor with fancier upholstery. A Mildly Reworked Interior for More Style Roush Performance Use the custom-branded key fob to open the doors, and the dash presents a serialized Roush badge for a more special cabin experience. The upgrades also add molded floor liners and aluminum pedal covers, but the Premium package turns things up a notch, with fancier leather upholstery in Coffee Brown & Black or plain Raven Black. This also adds carbon fiber interior trims along with an overhead auxiliary switch panel, and outside, the package gives the F-150 front and rear auxiliary off-road lighting. It also adds a valved exhaust system for when one wants a more subdued tone. Optionally, buyers can add the Roush Ready Package with a console vault, utility kit, and jump starter, or they can grab more attention with a graphics package that adds decals to the hood, bedsides, and doors. Whatever you decide, the 2026 Roush F-150 comes with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty. View the full article

Lesenko reunites with Jim Dunn Racing to pilot the Funny Car for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series.View the full article