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The all-new Nissan Sentra seriously impressed us when we took it for a first drive in Phoenix late last year. In its design and how it feels on the road, it exceeds the expectations created by its low starting price of just $22,600. If there’s anything to complain about, it’s that the sole 149-horsepower engine doesn’t live up to the rest of the package. There’s no modern Sentra Nismo to satiate enthusiasts—a Sentra Nismo was last on sale for the 2019 model year—but one Arizona dealer is taking matters into its own hands and working on a Nismo-inspired Sentra. It’ll come with a host of Nismo-inspired accessories to completely transform the compact sedan. A More Attainable Nissan Nismo N If you want a Nismo-badged Nissan straight from the factory, you’re limited to the Z Nismo (fun, but not practical) and the Armada Nismo (powerful, but essentially a tanker on wheels). Nick Raymond Scherr, a Nissan fan and salesman who goes by the name of Nismo Nick on social media, shared the plan to create the Sentra SE RS (Special Edition Rally Sport) with Pinnacle Nissan. Scherr previously defended inflated dealer markups of the Nissan Z. The concept pays tribute to the early-2000s tuner era, and will be designed as a turn-key build. Assembly of the sporty sedan will take place at Pinnacle Nissan and it will be offered for sale directly. The SE RS will be based on the stock Sentra RS trim, already the sportiest of the standard trims. This dealership-built package will come with the following extras: Nismo coiloversNismo LM-RS6 wheelsNismo cat-back exhaustNismo-inspired stripingCustom interior finishes and badgingIn a sketch of the SE RS shared by Scherr, we can see how just a few changes—including black/red striping, a spoiler, and a lowered suspension—create a sedan that looks even sharper than the Honda Civic Si. A Turbocharged Sentra Is Coming, TooScherr promised something even more exciting later this year, with plans to develop a turbocharged Sentra with a six-speed manual gearbox. That’s a world apart from the standard Sentra, which makes do with only a naturally aspirated engine and nothing else but a continuously variable transmission—hardly a combination that gets anyone’s blood pumping. Scherr didn’t say what outputs he’s after, but even another 50 hp would bring the Sentra up to par with the Civic Si, and the manual swap should make all the difference to the driving experience. “I’m going to build the cars the enthusiasts want and have been asking for for a long time,” said Scherr. In 2024, the Nissan Z finally started outselling the Toyota GR Supra, so there’s clearly still a market for high-performance Nissans. The Japanese marque also plans to expand the Nismo brand between now and 2028, so who knows, a new Sentra Nismo from the factory may come to fruition. Even if that doesn’t happen, true fans of the brand like Scherr are around to remind us of the brand’s sporting heritage with new builds like the Sentra SE RS. Related: Nissan Plans Major Expansion of Its Nismo Performance Brand View the full article

Rivian’s next big product is getting closer to customers. In a post on X, the company says it has begun building manufacturing validation units of the R2 at its Normal, Illinois plant, a key milestone that typically signals a program is moving from prototype work to production readiness. Rivian has been targeting the first half of 2026 for initial R2 deliveries, and validation builds are the stage where factory processes, parts fit, and build quality are stress-tested before full volume assembly begins. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What Manufacturing Validation Builds Really MeanValidation builds are not show cars and they are not hand-made prototypes. They are pre-production vehicles assembled on the intended production line using production intent parts and tooling, with the goal of catching issues that only appear when a car is built the way customers will receive it. This phase is where manufacturers confirm repeatability, verify that suppliers are delivering consistent components, and ensure the plant can hit quality targets at speed. If something is off, this is when it gets corrected, because every small problem becomes expensive once mass production starts. R2 manufacturing validation builds are rolling off the line in Normal! 12 months ago, this was a grass field — incredible work by our teams to get our R2 plant built so quickly! pic.twitter.com/1GsRCsKpyQ — Rivian (@Rivian) January 15, 2026 For Rivian, it is also a proof point that the company can execute a second major vehicle program while it continues building R1 models. That matters because Rivian’s growth story now depends on the R2 reaching a much broader audience than the R1T and R1S ever could. Why The R2 Timeline Matters So MuchVolumes fell year over year, and the company needs the R2 to expand demand while supporting a healthier cost structure. Moving into manufacturing validation is a tangible step toward that pivot, because it indicates Rivian is no longer just designing the R2, it is actively proving it can build it. Hitting a delivery window is only half the battle for them, the other half is ensuring the product is robust when it reaches real owners, especially as Rivian’s growing fleet is now being watched more closely for recalls and design decisions. Early 2026 has already brought attention to Rivian’s first recall of the year. Owner behavior also shows how customers respond when usability questions emerge. Those stories show why validation builds matter, because production readiness is not only about speed, it is about getting the details right before scale amplifies them. Why It MattersRivian’s R2 is the make or break volume play for the brand, and manufacturing validation builds are the clearest signal yet that the launch is entering its final stretch. If Rivian can translate this milestone into a smooth production ramp and solid early quality, the R2 has a real chance to reset the company’s trajectory in 2026. View the full article

The Charity Hammer Drops AgainFord has a sort of tradition of auctioning the first production example—VIN 001—for charity. After auctioning the first Mustang Dark Horse unit in 2024, the Blue Oval brand is once again following the same playbook, this time consigning the new Dark Horse SC to Barrett-Jackson. The example heading to auction comes equipped with the Track Pack. Like the original Mustang Dark Horse, proceeds from the VIN 001 Mustang Dark Horse SC will benefit Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), helping fund research into type 1 diabetes. While Ford has yet to disclose every detail surrounding the new Mustang variant, whoever ultimately secures the vehicle will benefit from its significant performance upgrades. Ford Born From the TrackThe Mustang Dark Horse SC builds on development insights from the S650 Mustang GT3 racecar and the Mustang GTD halo model. The “SC” designation refers to the use of a supercharger, with the forced-induction system mounted atop a 5.2-liter V8. Ford has not released official power figures, though expectations are that the SC will be deliberately positioned below the Mustang GTD’s 815-horsepower output. Enhancing its track-focused credentials further is the Track Pack, which adds a host of high-end performance hardware. This includes a distinct MagneRide damper calibration, lightweight carbon-fiber wheels, and carbon-ceramic brakes derived from the GTD program, among other upgrades. The package also brings aerodynamic revisions, such as a ducktail decklid and an exposed carbon-fiber rear wing, developed to generate up to 620 pounds of downforce. Ford Wildest Dark Horse For the RoadPricing for the Dark Horse SC has not yet been announced. For reference, the standard Mustang Dark Horse—powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V8 producing 500 horsepower—starts at approximately $64,080. In many ways, the Mustang Dark Horse SC can be viewed as the S650 generation’s equivalent of the Shelby GT500. It stands as one of Ford’s latest performance-oriented initiatives, alongside the brand’s imminent return to Formula 1 and the ongoing development of a Hypercar-class entry for endurance racing. Beyond winning over car enthusiasts, it’s also worth noting that the company continues to leverage highly coveted VIN 001 examples as a means of giving back to the community. This VIN 001 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC, equipped with the Track Pack, is scheduled to cross the auction block on January 24. Ford View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

In the early naughts, Pierre Terblanche ruffled the feathers of Ducatisti worldwide with the radically redesigned Ducati 999 and 749. While both bikes’ engines evolved from their predecessors, aesthetically they were a bold departure from the Italian marque’s well-established playbook.Aside from the... View the full article

Emerging Safety Crisis in the Used Car MarketThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a warning after faulty replacement airbag inflators have been confirmed to be behind multiple deaths in car crashes that were deemed ‘otherwise survivable’ by investigators. The inflators in question, not manufactured or approved for use by carmakers, appear to have been installed as replacement parts after an airbag deployment during a prior crash. The NHTSA says that these inflators were never approved for sale in the U.S. and were likely imported illegally. What’s scarier is that the agency believes that as many as 10,000 of these faulty inflators may still be in circulation, fitted to cars as replacement parts after prior crashes. Joe Raedle/Getty Images Deadly Failures Investigations into 10 crashes so far have revealed that the replacement airbag components ruptured catastrophically during collisions, sending metal shrapnel into the passenger compartment with deadly force. Eight of these crashes, deemed ‘otherwise survivable’ by the NHTSA resulted in fatalities, while the other two drivers received life-altering injuries. The cars involved were used Chevy Malibu and Hyundai Sonata sedans that had been repaired with these faulty parts after previous accidents. The deadly inflators were manufactured by Jilin Province Detiannuo Automobile Safety System Company, a Chinese company commonly referred to as DTN. The questionable parts seem to have been fitted to several cars currently in the used market, particularly vehicles with salvaged or rebuilt titles. Chevy Malibu in the SpotlightThe majority of these deadly incidents involve older, used examples of the popular Chevrolet Malibu sedan, where the original airbag had been replaced after a previous deployment. While GM did not supply or authorize these replacement parts, the NHTSA is urging used Malibu buyers to have vehicles with a history of airbag deployment inspected to ensure the use of legitimate replacement components. The Agency has also issued an alert to auto repair businesses to remain vigilant when sourcing replacement airbag components. Investigation Still UnderwayFederal regulators are now working on tracing how the Chinese inflators entered the U.S. supply chain and where they may still be installed. Officials are coordinating with various law enforcement agencies and industry partners to identify distributors, remove the faulty components from circulation, and prevent further installations. View the full article

Hidden GemsOne of the first major automotive shows covered globally is the Tokyo Auto Salon, annually held in January. It serves as the opening salvo that the new year has begun for auto enthusiasts. Given the scale of the show and major manufacturers taking part, it's no small wonder that some incredibly unique builds are often overlooked. Tucked away in one of the many event halls and displays is a car now just hitting the spotlight, something worthy of not just attention but proper recognition. Someone has just modified an Autozam AZ-1, and it isn't the usual build, either. Wide, Rotary BoyBuilt as a project by the Japanese tuner Goda Bankin, this red Autozam is making waves because of its (very) wide-body exterior modifications. Specifically, it seems Goda Bankin wanted to make the Autozam's stance imposing by giving it one of the biggest fender flares ever seen, let alone on a car as small as the AZ-1. A closer inspection of the photos also reveals a revised front fascia and larger rims. There aren't any clear interior shots, but it has aftermarket seats and steering wheel updates. For the uninitiated, Autozam is one of Mazda's brands that specializes in kei cars, with the AZ-1 one of its coolest creations from the '90s. The AZ-1 has always had its fair share of cult following; it was built as a sort of super mini supercar designed as a kei car. At the time of its relevance, it went up against other notable two-door kei cars like the Cappucino, and the kei car classification means the OEM spec engine was regulated to just 657cc. Goda Bankin decided that a motor swap was in order; it decided to go with something just as unique as the car itself – a rotary engine. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article One-Off ShowcaseNot all the engine specs have been publicized; all we know about this build is that it uses the legendary 13B rotary engine with upgraded fuel injection and an ECU. It also has the rotors from a Mazda RX8, a 6-speed transmission from a Mazdaspeed 3, and a special-order clutch and diff. No power output has been announced, but it should be considerably more than the stock engine. Lastly, the brakes and the suspension were also modified, hinting maybe at possible performance testing? As unique as this build is, sadly, Goda Bankin says it will remain a showcase piece only and isn't even road-legal, let alone for sale to the public. View the full article

Proving Range the Hard WayWith range being a crucial selling point for electric vehicles, some automakers have pursued 24-hour endurance test records. These tests demonstrate not only how far an EV can travel continuously, but also how effectively it manages heat – an important factor influencing sustained performance. Recently, Xiaomi – known globally for its Apple-rivaling smartphones – completed a 24-hour endurance run covering 4,264 km (2,649 miles) with its updated SU7. That figure surpasses the previous benchmark set by the Xpeng P7, although the endurance crown remains with the Mercedes-AMG GT XX Concept, which recorded 3,405 miles in a single day. Xiaomi The Science Behind Staying on TrackThese figures are made possible by ultra-fast charging technology. Mercedes’ GT XX is said to support charging rates of up to 900 kW—well beyond the more common 350 kW benchmark—allowing up to 250 miles of range to be added in just five minutes, according to the WLTP cycle. Per CarNewsChina, the Xiaomi SU7 can recover up to 670 km (416 miles) of range in 15 minutes under CLTC standards. In both cases, an optimized thermal management system is critical to ensuring that such extreme fast-charging performance can be delivered safely and consistently – particularly in the context of a 24-hour endurance test. However, the SU7 is no slouch. The high-performance SU7 Ultra variant edged out the Rimac Nevera at the Nürburgring, posting a lap time of 7:04.957 – just 0.341 seconds quicker. Notably, the 1,527-horsepower SU7 Ultra carries a price tag slightly north of $70,000, a fraction of the seven-figure cost associated with the Rimac. Xiaomi Road to ProductionThe Mercedes-AMG GT XX, by contrast, has so far only been spotted undergoing testing at the Nürburgring. Its focus has instead been endurance, with the German marque claiming new benchmarks across runs lasting up to 168 hours and covering approximately 25,000 miles. Production is expected to begin later this year. The final specs have yet to be confirmed. What is clear is that the Xiaomi SU7 is unlikely to arrive stateside in the near term due to regulatory constraints, tariffs, and geopolitical concerns. However, Chinese EVs may eventually find pathways into parts of North America – particularly Canada – after the country reportedly lowered tariffs on a limited number of imports. How that develops remains to be seen, but for consumers, it could ultimately translate into more choice, especially as Chinese automakers continue to offer increasingly competitive capabilities at comparatively lower prices. Mercedes-AMG View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

NHRA announced today that Amalie Motor Oil will continue as the title sponsor of this year’s 57th annual NHRA Gatornationals to open NHRA’s historic 75th anniversary season. The Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals will take place March 5-8 at legendary Gainesville Raceway, opening the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season for the fourth consecutive year. It remains one of the biggest events in motorsports, as all the top stars in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle will look to win the famed race during NHRA’s landmark 75th season. Amalie Motor Oil has been a longtime title sponsor of the iconic event, continuing a standout partnership with NHRA during the highly-anticipated 2026 event and kickoff to the NHRA’s 75th campaign. “AMALIE Motor Oil is honored to be a part of NHRA’s diamond anniversary,” said President and CEO, Harry Barkett. “AMALIE was at the first Gatornationals, and proud to continue as the title sponsor of this marquee event at this incredible raceway.” Last year, Antron Brown (Top Fuel), Chad Green (Funny Car), Dallas Glenn (Pro Stock) and Gaige Herrera (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all won on the hallowed grounds of Gainesville Raceway to open the year. This year’s race will again be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 8. This year promises to be one of the biggest races in Gatornationals history. Along with a full slate of racing – including the Top Fuel All-Star Callout specialty race on Saturday and action in the Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown and the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series – fans can expect a multitude of events to celebrate the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals and NHRA’s 75th anniversary, including: Appearances from a host of NHRA legends during the event, including Kenny Bernstein, Don Garlits, Joe Amato, Don Prudhomme, Shirley Muldowney, Darrell Gwynn and Bob Frey. A celebration of Bernstein’s historic 300-mph run from 1992. A free, limited-edition NHRA 2026 season poster to the first 6,500 fans in attendance on Sunday. A new-look Nitro Mall, special displays and a 75th anniversary stage in Nitro Alley. Race winners will get the special NHRA 75th anniversary Diamond Wally, along with the Gatornationals traditional Golden Gator trophy. “Amalie Motor Oil continues to be a fantastic NHRA partner and we’re so thrilled to have them continue as the title sponsor of the Gatornationals, especially as we open our 75th anniversary season in Gainesville this year,” NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber said. “It’s the start of an exciting year and it doesn’t get much bigger than the Amalie Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals. It’s a perfect way to kick off a landmark year and it’s great to have the continued support from Amalie Motor Oil for this massive event.” The Gatornationals – long one of the biggest races on the NHRA tour – have drawn massive crowds for more than five decades and helped make legends in the sport. Top Fuel’s Tony Schumacher and Pro Stock’s Greg Anderson both have five Gatornationals wins, while veteran Ron Capps has four in the Funny Car ranks. This year, fans will see a host of major stars, including Top Fuel reigning world champ Doug Kalitta, motorsports legend Tony Stewart, local standout Josh Hart, who joined John Force Racing, and the return of star driver Leah Pruett. In Funny Car, the stars include back-to-back world champ Austin Prock, Capps, Matt Hagan, Jack Beckman and new John Force Racing driver Jordan Vandergriff, while Pro Stock features champ Glenn, Anderson, Erica Enders, Jeg Coughlin Jr. and Aaron Stanfield. In Pro Stock Motorcycle, Gaige Herrera is after a fourth straight Gatornationals win, while Richard Gadson begins his title defense against the likes of Matt Smith, Angie Smith and Chase Van Sant. To purchase tickets to the 2026 NHRA Gatornationals, Including upgraded experiences in the Gainesville Top Eliminator Club, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. Children 12 and under are free in general admission areas with the purchase of an adult ticket. This story was originally published on January 20, 2026. The post Amalie Motor Oil Returns as Title Sponsor For NHRA Gatornationals to Open 75th NHRA Season first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The countdown to 2026 is officially on. From coast to coast, the NHRA Canada National Open Series returns with another thrilling season of side-by-side drag racing, championship battles, and unforgettable weekends at Canada’s premier drag strips. Powered by the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series, this year’s schedule brings together the best racers in the country across East and West divisions, all chasing Cash, Wallys, Points, Pride, and National recognition. The John Scotti Canadian Championship Series East will take competitors through some of the most iconic tracks in Eastern Canada, with all NHRA Canada National Open Series are two separate events of championship drag racing, raising the stakes at every stop. From Toronto to Napierville, Luskville, Miramichi to Cape Breton, the East series promises intense competition and a packed summer calendar. Meanwhile, the John Scotti Canadian Championship Series West delivers high-octane action across British Columbia and Alberta. With stops in Mission, Medicine Hat, and Edmonton, the West series showcases top-tier talent and the same championship-level atmosphere fans expect from the NHRA Canada, National Open Series events. Two Series. Two Coasts. Endless Competition. John Scotti Canadian Championship Series – EAST NHRA Canada National Open (All events are two separate races) ● May 15–17 — Toronto, ON ● June 19–21 — Luskville, QC ● July 16–18 — Napierville, QC ● July 23–25 — Miramichi, NB ● August 13–15 — Cape Breton, NS ● September 4–6 — Toronto, ON ● September 10–12 — Napierville, QC (Finals) John Scotti Canadian Championship Series – WEST NHRA Canada National Open (All events are two separate races) ● May 30–31 — Mission Raceway, Mission, BC ● July 4–5 — M.H.D.R.A., Medicine Hat, AB ● July 11–12 — RAD Torque Raceway, Edmonton, AB This story was originally published on January 20, 2026. The post NHRA Canada National Open Series Announces 2026 Schedule first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

After creating a class to call home, Small Tire Pro Stock racers captured attention at tracks across the country in 2025 in cars with high-revving and high-horsepower naturally aspirated engines. One pass at a time, they proved what they are made of, and now, they are preparing for a showstopping second season of racing in 2026. Here is this year’s six-race Small Tire Pro Stock schedule: March 19-21 at South Georgia Motorsports Park in Adel, Georgia, as part of Muscle Car Mayhem May 22-23 at World Wide Technology Raceway in Madison, Illinois, as part of Nostalgia Drag Racing League Route 66 Rockabilly Reunion July 10-11 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indianapolis, Indiana, as part of Nostalgia Drag Racing League Hot Rod Nationals presented by Ray Skillman Automotive Group August 8-9 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indianapolis, Indiana, as part of Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series NHRA North Central Division 3 Divisional Race September 11-12 at Darana Raceway in Hebron, Ohio, as part of Nostalgia Drag Racing League World Nostalgia Drags October 23-25 at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park in Indianapolis, Indiana, as part of NHRA North Central Divisional Division 3 Fall Classic “Small Tire Pro Stock is proud to partner with Nostalgia Drag Racing League for three events, and to be part of the programs at South Georgia Motorsports Park, World Wide Technology Raceway, Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park and Darana Raceway for 2026,” said Dwight Ausmus, Small Tire Pro Stock steering committee member and 2025 class champion. “The teams at these renowned racing venues are known for their hospitality and for hosting some of the most popular and well-run events in the country, and we are thrilled to be part of their shows.” Small Tire Pro Stock has support from 10K Technology, Pen and Paper Strength App, Dolce and Clemente’s Market, V & J Inc., BES Racing Engines, CFM Carburetors, Extreme Fab and Beadlocks and Weldon Racing, and additional sponsors will soon be welcomed to the crowd-pleasing category with charismatic competitors. “Having people believe in us and back us inspires us as we grow,” said David Theisen, Small Tire Pro Stock steering committee member and racer who finished third in points in 2025. “We look forward to putting the spotlight on our sponsors at the track and away from the track in 2026 and beyond. Together, we have a lot to look forward to.” For media inquiries and information about Small Tire Pro Stock, please email Mary Lendzion at smalltireprostock@gmail.com or visit the Small Tire Pro Stock Facebook page. This story was originally published on January 20, 2026. The post Small Tire Tire Pro Stock Secures Six Races For Highly Anticipated Second Season first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

SCAG Racing announced Monday that FastTz has teamed up with Justin Ashley and his SCAG Power Equipment Top Fuel Dragster as an associate partner for the 2026 Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series. FastTz, a professional printing and embroidery company specializing in custom apparel and signage, will play a key role in supporting the SCAG Racing program by supplying official team merchandise throughout the 2026 season. The partnership will enhance SCAG Racing’s fan engagement efforts while ensuring the team, SCAG Power Equipment dealers, and supporters have access to high-quality, professionally produced apparel. “Ordering is made EZ @ FastTz,” simply said David Rogers, owner of FastTz. Ashley, who enters the 2026 season as one of the premier drivers in the NHRA Top Fuel category, emphasized his gratitude for the partnership and the benefits it will bring to both SCAG Racing and FastTz. “We are very excited about our newest partnership with FastTz & Signs,” said Ashley. “I’ve had the privilege of getting to know David over the last few years and consider myself lucky to call him a friend. FastTz is a principle-based company that is dedicated to putting the needs of their customers first. This aligns perfectly with our vision at SCAG Racing. I am grateful for the opportunity to further introduce FastTz to the NHRA community.” FastTz will make its on-track debut with SCAG Racing at the season-opening NHRA Gatornationals, March 6–8, at Gainesville Raceway in Gainesville, Florida, with branding featured on the blower of Ashley’s Top Fuel dragster. This story was originally published on January 20, 2026. The post FastTz Joins SCAG Racing as Associate Partner on Justin Ashley’s SCAG Power Equipment Top Fuel Dragster first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Ross Chastain is going to be very busy in the upcoming season. In addition to his duties as the full-time driver of the No. 1 Trackhouse Racing Chevrolet in the NASCAR Cup Series, he already announced plans to run the maximum allowed number of Truck races (eight) for Niece Motorsports. And while we don't know the specific races, it was previously confirmed that he will return to JR Motorsports ...Keep readingView the full article

Built to Take a BeatingShopping for aftermarket wheels can be tricky – especially when dealing with a premium SUV like the Toyota Land Cruiser. In situations like this, sticking with a proven brand is often the safest approach, and Japan’s RAYS now has a new option available. The renowned wheel manufacturer has unveiled a new 18-inch model for the ZE40X, purpose-built to endure the brutal demands of off-road driving. Offered under the company’s flagship Volk Racing lineup, the new 18-inch ZE40X builds upon the ZE40, a wheel that has been part of RAYS’ portfolio since the mid-2010s. Previously available only in 17-inch sizes, the ZE40X is a forged, high-performance wheel optimized for 4×4 applications. RAYS specifically cites vehicles such as the Land Cruiser 250 and Land Cruiser 300 as target models, which should also make the Lexus GX a natural fit. RAYS The Vehicles in FocusIn the U.S., Toyota sells only the boxy-styled Land Cruiser 250 alongside the Lexus GX, with both vehicles effectively sharing the same body-on-frame TNGA-F platform. The primary difference comes down to market positioning, as the Lexus places a greater emphasis on luxury and refinement. Meanwhile, the larger Land Cruiser 300 was never offered in the U.S. following its global debut in 2021. RAYS notes that the ZE40X has been certified to the JWL-T standard, confirming that it meets strict safety requirements designed to handle higher loads and increased stress. In addition, the wheel also complies with the company’s own JWL+R standards, which indicate that it has undergone extended testing. RAYS The Cost of StrengthThe ZE40X is offered in multiple configurations, though versions specifically designed for the Land Cruiser 250 and Lexus GX are priced at around ¥116,000 (approximately $734 at current exchange rates) per wheel in the Blast Black finish. The Bronze option carries a slightly higher price at ¥121,000 (roughly $765) per wheel. RAYS also offers several optional finishes for up to ¥7,000 (about $44) extra, depending on the color. For reference, Toyota currently prices the Land Cruiser 250 in the U.S. starting at $57,600, positioning it below the full-size Sequoia. Its luxury counterpart, the Lexus GX, carries a higher entry point, with a starting price of around $66,935. Aside from these models, RAYS also promotes the ZE40X as a suitable option for other off-road-capable vehicles, including the Ford F-150 Raptor, Jeep Wrangler, and Mitsubishi Triton – a midsize body-on-frame pickup that is not sold in the U.S. RAYS View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Many manufacturers have discontinued hatchback models in the United States in recent years, but Kia’s new K4 is a welcome addition to the segment. It’s stylish, excellent value for money, and more practical than the K4 sedan introduced first. What the K4 doesn’t have is a manual gearbox, which would be especially welcome on the model with the turbocharged engine. However, Kia won’t rule out a stick shift for its new hatchback—all it needs is sufficient demand for the option. Related: Manual Transmissions Aren’t Dead. Some U.S. Buyers Are Choosing Them More K4 Hatchback Manual Not Impossible A At a recent press event in Los Angeles, a Kia spokesperson spoke about the possibility of introducing a manual option for the K4 Hatchback. The K4 is offered with a manual in other markets, as pictured above. “We don’t have any plans for a manual transmission right now, but the platform is perfectly capable of accepting one,” said the spokesperson when speaking to Carscoops. “We do offer a manual in other markets. If we find that there’s demand in our market for a manual transmission and it makes business sense, it’s technically possible.” Kia The K4 Hatchback is only available with a CVT or a conventional eight-speed automatic for now. The CVT is paired with the standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, whereas the eight-speeder is exclusive to the GT-Line Turbo, which gets a 1.6-liter turbo-four with 190 horsepower. While it’s encouraging to see that Kia is open to a manual gearbox for its compact hatch, the take rate for manuals makes for grim reading. One of Kia’s most recently available manual models, the Forte GT (the Forte preceded the K4), had a take rate for manual derivatives of just 2%, according to Motor 1. That’s hardly promising and explains why the new K4 Sportswagon (also available with a manual) won’t be sold in the United States. Related: Kia’s Manual K4 Sportswagon Brings Fun Back to Compact Wagons Manual Hatchbacks Mostly Limited To Hot Hatches Toyota If you want a manual hatchback in 2026, you typically have to spend far more on a proper hot hatch like the Toyota GR Corolla (starts at $39,920) or Honda Civic Type R (starts at $45,895). These prices are in a completely different realm to the K4 Hatchback, which has a base MSRP of $24,890. The only regular hatchback that still has a manual gearbox is the Mazda 3, and only on the Premium trim that starts at $31,450. As of the 2025 model year, Honda discontinued the manual for its otherwise sporty Civic Hatchback. Even the Volkswagen Golf GTI, one of the best hatches for enthusiasts, no longer comes with anything but a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Like other automakers, Kia needs a strong enough business case to produce a manual gearbox, and that simply doesn’t exist in this market—at least, not outside the sports car segment. View the full article

The U.S. Street Nationals is shaping up to be a massive event. Here are five big story lines to follow this weekend. View the full article

In 2025, we got accustomed to seeing the No. 88 JR Motorsports Chevrolet in Victory Lane, courtesy of Connor Zilisch and his ten wins. For this year, it was already announced that Rajah Caruth will pilot the car in 23 of 33 NOAPS races during the 2026 season. However, we now know who will drive the car in the other ten events. With Hendrick Motorsports taking its No. 17 full-time with ...Keep readingView the full article

While many Americans struggle to wrap their heads around the average new car price recently exceeding $50,000 for the first time ever, ultra-luxury buyers seem unfazed by rising costs. In 2024, Lamborghini made more profit than ever before, and although its profits declined last year, it still set a new sales record. The Sant'Agata Bolognese-based automaker revealed that it delivered 10,747 vehicles worldwide in 2025, even with "challenging market conditions" and a lineup populated exclusively by hybrid vehicles. Despite improving on 2024's figures and exceeding 10,000 deliveries for the third consecutive year, Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, says that the company's strategy "does not aim for peaks in volumes." Two Cars Led Lamborghini's Charge in 2025 Lamborghini View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Europe, Middle East, and Africa region was Lamborghini's strongest, contributing 4,650 deliveries to the total (followed by the Americas with 3,347 units, and Asia Pacific with 2,750), and the electrified, V12-powered Revuelto supercar and the Urus SE plug-in hybrid SUV were responsible for the company's global success. But Lamborghini's smallest offering will soon contribute; deliveries of the 2026 Temerario sports car will begin this month, and Lamborghini's order books for it are already full for the next year or so. Related: Mysterious Manifesto Concept Shows Lamborghini Wants To Be More Elegant Unfortunately, Lamborghini doesn't break down its sales by model, but we can safely surmise that the Urus SE, which starts around $262,000, easily outsold the $608,000 Revuelto, and it'll continue to be the foundation of Lambo sales once the $390,000 Temerario starts reaching customers. And that's not all fans of the Raging Bull can look forward to. More New Lambos Coming Lamborghini While the Italian automaker didn't say so in its sales report, we know that more new Lambos are in development. Like the Aventador and the Murciélago before it, the Revuelto will surely become available as a roadster before long. With the Temerario's 10,000-rpm V8 set to stick around for at least two life cycles, we can also bank on special editions of the smallest offering in Lamborghini's stable (like the Superlegerra, Tecnica, and STO variants of past baby Lambos), and these may even include a rear-wheel-drive model and a Temerario without the hybrid gubbins. Before those, however, a more hardcore version of the Urus is also expected before the SUV gets remastered for its second generation. That leads us to the Lanzador EV, which has been delayed to the end of the decade and may gain combustion to draw wider appeal. Autoblog's Take Lamborghini Lamborghini's record-breaking sales in 2025 show that going hybrid hasn't hurt the famed brand, with assertive styling and the continued existence of exciting engines keeping the automaker in vogue with the wealthy. A small but diverse lineup of choices with varying price points has also helped Sant'Agata maintain its grip on the consciousness of monied buyers, while ultra low-volume editions like the Fenomeno continue to drive profits. That said, Lamborghini hasn't talked about profit in its latest sales report, which may hint at a slight decline. This brings us to Federico Foschini's comments. As the Chief Marketing and Sales Officer of Lamborghini, he noted that "significant geopolitical and macroeconomic turbulence" in 2025 caused challenges in the various markets Lamborghini sells to. Although those are just as pertinent in 2026, it seems that Sant'Agata will continue to be highly successful once again. View the full article

If you feel like every new car on the road looks like it was ordered in the same three shades, you're not imagining things. Fresh data from Axalta shows that global buyers continue to play it safe when choosing colors, with North America being no exception. Despite years of talk about bolder palettes and expressive design, with brands like Bentley now offering 111 exterior paint colors, neutral tones remain firmly in control, just as they were the year before. Neutral Colors Still Rule The Road Volvo On a global scale, white once again tops the chart with a 29% market share, repeating its position from last year. Black follows at 23%, with gray close behind at 22%. Silver has slipped further to 7%, while blue holds steady at 6% as the most popular non-neutral color. Everything else, including red, green, brown or beige, and yellow or gold, makes up only small single-digit slices of the market. North America tells a similar story, though with a few interesting wrinkles. White leads at 31%, down slightly year over year, while blue has climbed to 10% and red to 7%. It is not quite a revolution, but it does suggest some buyers are slowly getting bored with the grayscale look. And mainstream brands are starting to join in, just take a look at Mazda's new Polymetal Gray Metallic (that's actually blue), which made a debut on the 2026 Mazda CX-5. Why Boring Colors Keep Winning Tesla Putting on our tin foil hat, the data suddenly starts to make sense. Neutral colors usually hide dirt and scratches better, are easier for automakers to produce at scale, and tend to be safer bets at resale. Ironically, new resale data shows yellow and orange vehicles retain the most value after three years, while common shades like black and white take the biggest depreciation hit. Design trends also play a role. Today’s minimalist surfaces and sharp creases tend to look cleaner in subdued tones. Automakers try to fool us with increasingly creative color names that differ ever so slightly from a standard color, but cost quite a chunk of change extra. With all that in mind, it becomes clear to see why buyers default to safe options. Small Signs of Color Making a Comeback Renault While neutrals still dominate, the future isn't entirely bleak. BMW has revived iconic M3 shades like Dakar Yellow and Laguna Seca Blue. Porsche is taking its Paint to Sample process to the next level, where you can replicate virtually any color you see in the real world. Across the pond, European carmakers are especially trying to revive cool colors, just take the Renault Twingo-E as an example: It comes in red, yellow, green and black – white isn't even an option. Color is not dead. But it's just fighting an uphill battle, and color often comes at a premium, unfortunately. View the full article

Travis Pastrana has a resume that is frankly too long to list here, with achievements spanning from 11 gold medals in the X-Games to jumping out of a plane without a parachute. He has proven to be a versatile competitor who is up for just about any challenge, and has enjoyed immense success in everything from supercross bikes to rally cars. His thrilling career also took him to the world of ...Keep readingView the full article

The Cost of Going BigOne of the key concerns heading into 2026 is the rising cost of new vehicles in the U.S., with average transaction prices surpassing $50,000 last December. That said, Ford appears to be exploring ways to address affordability, including reviving its sedan lineup. In a report by Automotive News, Ford CEO Jim Farley mentioned he is not ruling out sedans. “Never say never,” Farley said. “The sedan market is very vibrant. It’s not that there isn’t a market there. It’s just, we couldn’t find a way to compete and be profitable. Well, we may find a way to do that.” Ford Betting on What Buyers WantedThe Blue Oval exited the U.S. sedan market after discontinuing the Fusion following the 2020 model year, a move driven by a strategic shift toward crossovers and SUVs. At the time, this pivot mirrored broader market dynamics, as consumer preferences increasingly favored higher-riding vehicles with greater utility. The trend was so pronounced that even legacy performance brands such as Ferrari entered the SUV space with previously unprecedented models. With that context in mind, it will be interesting to see whether the increasing vehicle prices can begin to shift consumer preferences back toward sedans, despite the original move toward crossovers and SUVs being largely demand-driven. There are additional industry factors worth noting. One is that Nissan recently discontinued its most affordable sedan, the Versa, citing declining demand for small cars. That decision effectively closed out the sub-$20,000 new-car segment in the U.S. Another factor is that the primary contributors to the $50,000-plus average transaction price continue to be full-size pickup trucks and SUVs, suggesting that many American buyers still prioritize size and capability despite models like the 2026 Ford F-150 now starting at around $39,000. Ford A Segment Kept AliveFord, however, has not abandoned sedans globally. The automaker continues to offer four-door models in international markets, including China, where it operates a joint venture with Changan Automobile and sells the Mondeo. For now, the American sedan market is largely being carried by Asian automakers, particularly as domestic brands such as Chevrolet and Buick have already pulled out of the segment. Some of the remaining mainstream sedan nameplates still on sale with relatively affordable price tags include the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Hyundai Elantra. In addition to this possible sedan strategy, Ford also seeks to address affordability with an all-new, all-electric pickup targeted at around $30,000. Kristen Brown View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Beard Motorsports will be among the open cars attempting to qualify for the 68th running of the Daytona 500 next month with its No. 62 Chevrolet. Anthony Alfredo will be the driver with DUDE Wipes as the primary sponsor. Alfredo failed to make the 500 last year, but the same duo made the cut in 2024. Alfredo started 39th and finished 27th. “There is nothing like being in Daytona Beach in ...Keep readingView the full article

For years, new riders taking the MSF Basic RiderCourse have learned on the tiniest Honda Rebels, including me. But it's grown up!View the full article

Genesis’ Abandoned Pickup Was Real, and the Evidence Is Now PublicGenesis previously acknowledged it had explored a pickup truck for the U.S. market, but details were limited. Newly published images from Auto&Design magazine confirm the project advanced far beyond internal discussion. The luxury brand produced sketches and a full-scale design model, proving the pickup was a legitimate development program before it was shelved. This follows earlier reporting that Genesis considered a truck before choosing to prioritize other vehicles. Design chief Luc Donckerwolke later confirmed the project, known internally as “The Pickup,” and said it was evaluated as an electric vehicle. The idea was dropped due to resource constraints, not because it failed to meet technical or design goals. Donckerwolke also suggested the concept could be revisited at some point. A Pickup Concept That Broke from Segment NormsThe design itself shows how differently Genesis approached the segment. Just because Genesis has familial ties to Hyundai and Kia, it doesn't mean they're repurposing the Tasman or the Santa Cruz. Instead of a unibody platform, the concept used a ladder-style chassis with twin side members. The goal was to deliver greater off-road capability, a notable departure for a brand focused primarily on luxury sedans and crossovers. Visually, the truck stands apart from anything currently on sale. It uses a clear two-body layout that separates the cab from the bed while maintaining a cohesive design. The proportions are bold and architectural rather than utilitarian. Styling cues closely resemble those seen later on the X Gran Equator concept, suggesting this pickup helped shape Genesis’ broader design direction even after cancellation. Anh Đình Hoàng/Instagram Electric Ambitions and a Striking Flip-Out FrunkOne of the most distinctive features is the flip-out front trunk. The design leverages electric vehicle packaging to add usable storage while making a strong visual statement. It reinforces that Genesis was not aiming for a conventional luxury truck but was testing how far the concept could be pushed. The timing now appears significant. Luxury electric pickups are gaining traction, and the segment is no longer as unproven as it once was. While the Genesis pickup never reached production, these images confirm it was far more than a hypothetical exercise. It was a serious design study that shows Genesis once stood closer to entering the pickup market than many realized. Anh Đình Hoàng/Instagram View the full article

The absence of a Hemi V8 in the new Dodge Charger is a bitter pill to swallow, no matter how good the 550-horsepower six-cylinder version is. One of the last true muscle cars has shed a big part of its character in its transition to a six-cylinder model—and let’s not even mention the electric version. But rumors of a V8 comeback for the new Charger have circulated for a good few months now, and while nothing has been confirmed by Dodge, we now know what form the V8 will take if it ever returns. Essentially, the naturally aspirated Hemi V8 has no chance, but the supercharged version from the older Hellcat may live again. Here’s why. Related: Can the New Gas-Powered Dodge Charger Still Hang With America’s Best Muscle Cars? Standard Hemi Now Outclassed S Tim Kuniskis, the head of American brands and North America marketing and retail strategy for Stellantis, has explained why the standard 5.7-liter Hemi V8 won’t make it back into the Charger. “The only way it makes sense to charge for [an optional Hemi] now is I have to go all the way up to a Hellcat,” said Kuniskis at the Detroit Auto Show when speaking to MotorTrend. Ultimately, the 5.7L V8’s outputs simply aren’t competitive with the new Hurricane, the turbocharged six-cylinder mill found in several Stellantis products. As a reminder, this V8 made up to 375 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque in the Challenger. By comparison, the 3.0-liter twin-turbo Hurricane six-cylinder in the new Charger already makes 420 hp in standard form, and up to 550 hp/531 lb-ft in the SixPack models. “The reality is when you get into that rare air, the take rate is pretty small,” continued Kuniskis, saying that most buyers will prefer the better mix of power and efficiency in the Hurricane-equipped models. The 6.2L supercharged Hemi Hellcat mill is another story, though. With up to 807 hp and 707 lb-ft in the older Challenger, this incredible engine could still theoretically work as a halo Charger. But Kuniskis refused to say there were any concrete plans in place to make this happen. Related: The HEMI-Powered Dodge Charger Lives—But There's a Catch Mustang V8 Has No Direct Rival… For Now Ford In the American muscle car segment, the Ford Mustang stands alone as the only V8 option. And there are many of them now, from the 480-hp GT to the new Dark Horse SC, which is expected to make well over 700 hp when it arrives. Last year, Dodge CEO Matt McAlear said we shouldn’t be surprised if a V8 Charger returns. This aligns with Dodge—and by extension, Stellantis—once again embracing larger-capacity powertrains. “It’s no secret that we’re absolutely flexing into ICE production right now,” said McAlear last year. Let’s hope that flex extends to a return of the epic Hellcat V8 at some point in the near future. If that happens, even the hottest Mustang will have to watch its back. Related: 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack Sedan Has No Equal Under $60K View the full article

Small bike, big adventure potential once you accessorize right. Right?View the full article