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What Rising EV Inventory Means for BuyersWhile the electric vehicle market faced significant headwinds this year, the slowdown could ultimately work in favor of consumers. A report from iSeeCars highlights which EV models are piling up on dealer lots across the U.S., creating potential bargain opportunities as dealers look to clear excess inventory. Looking specifically at the 2024 model year category, the Genesis GV60 tops the list of EVs with the highest share of leftover inventory, with 21.8% of units still unsold. In other words, roughly two out of every ten GV60s sitting on dealer lots are still 2024 models. The GV60 was among the early wave of premium EVs that helped expand the segment at the beginning of this decade, alongside its platform mates, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. However, despite its early entry advantage, the report suggests Genesis has faced challenges gaining consistent traction for the GV60 stateside. Genesis A Shift in Market DynamicsNext on the list is the Dodge Charger Daytona EV, a model the automaker placed considerable confidence in—enough to end production of the previous gas-powered Charger and Challenger generation. According to the report, the 2024 Charger EV now accounts for 20.9% of dealer inventory, followed by the Chevrolet Silverado EV at 11.9% and the GMCHummer EV (SUV) at 5.5%. Moving to the 2025 model year, the BMW i4 – the Bavarian automaker’s best-selling EV in the U.S. – leads the list with a striking 89.2% inventory share. This suggests that dealers are still heavily weighted toward 2025 i4 stock, despite broader market pressure following the discontinuation of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit last September. The Porsche Macan EV ranks second at 67.8%, ahead of the Volkswagen ID.4 at 59.1%, the Cadillac Escalade IQ at 47.8%, and the Genesis Electrified GV70 at 37.2%. Rounding out the top ten are the Genesis GV60 at 35.3%, Honda Prologue at 34.1%, Mercedes-Benz EQE at 30.9%, Cadillac Lyriq at 30.6%, and GMC Hummer EV at 30.2%. BMW Negotiation Season Is OpenOf course, actual transaction prices for these EVs will still vary depending on dealer location, incentives, and regional demand. That said, consumers may find more room to negotiate, as dealers are often motivated to move aging inventory to free up space, protect margins, and stay competitive in an ever-changing market. Looking ahead to 2026, the landscape may shift again. Several automakers – including Volvo and Mercedes-Benz – have begun scaling back earlier commitments to go fully electric by the end of the decade, instead signaling a more flexible, multi-powertrain approach similar to Toyota. But thanks to reports like this from iSeeCars, prospective EV buyers can gain valuable insight, helping them make more informed decisions and potentially secure favorable deals. Cadillac View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

On Thursday of last week, 2012 NASCAR Cup Series champion and RFK Racing co-owner Brad Keselowski suffered a broken leg while on a skiing trip with his family. Keselowski underwent successful surgery and after a few days in the hospital, he has been released. He promised to "work relentlessly" in order to be ready to compete at the highest level of stock car racing in 2026. "Rolling out of ...Keep readingView the full article

Dr. Patrick Staropoli, who works as a retina surgeon, is continuing his journey into the stock car racing world. In 2026, he will replace Nick Sanchez as the full-time driver of the No. 48 Big Machine Racing Chevrolet. Staropoli made his O'Reilly Auto Parts (formerly Xfinity) Series debut earlier this year, running four races with Sam Hunt Racing. He finished as high as 16th at ...Keep readingView the full article

Mercedes Reaches $120 Million Multistate SettlementMercedes-Benz has reached a $120 million multi-state settlement to resolve lingering civil claims tied to emissions software used in its diesel vehicles, marking a key step toward closing the final chapter of its U.S. “Dieselgate”-era troubles. The settlement addresses environmental and consumer protection complaints involving Model Year 2009–2016 BlueTEC diesel cars and vans, vehicles once hailed by the automaker as “the world’s cleanest and most advanced diesel.” The claim later drew scrutiny from regulators, sparking a years-long legal and reputational battle across several states and territories. The agreement, announced this week, still requires final court approval but already includes the participation of numerous state attorneys general, as well as Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Beyond the financial payout, Mercedes has agreed to continue upgrading affected vehicles with approved emissions software, a process expected to cost “tens of millions of dollars” more, according to a company spokesperson. According to the automaker's official press release, it emphasized that these additional measures will not dent its earnings, noting that it had already set aside sufficient funds to cover the total costs. Cleaning Up the Last of DieselgateThe latest settlement follows a series of agreements Mercedes has struck over recent years to put its diesel-related liabilities behind it. In 2020, the company settled with federal regulators and California authorities and reached a nationwide class-action settlement with private owners. A subsequent 2022 settlement with the Arizona Attorney General further reduced its outstanding legal exposure. By 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice closed its criminal probe without filing charges, leaving primarily state-level civil claims, now covered by this multi-state agreement, as the final pieces of its U.S. diesel litigation puzzle. Mercedes reports that it has already upgraded more than 85 percent of affected BlueTEC vehicles since the launch of Approved Emission Modifications in 2021. The new settlement includes incentives to encourage the remaining vehicle owners to complete the retrofit, a move designed to enhance both environmental outcomes and compliance rates. While Mercedes continues to deny any wrongdoing, it described the deal as a “pragmatic solution” that allows the company to move forward without the distraction and cost of continued legal battles. For regulators, it also represents a victory in securing additional emissions reductions and consumer assurances after years of negotiations. What This Might Mean for Mercedes’ Engine StrategyThe timing of the settlement aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s evolving stance on its powertrain strategy amid a rapidly shifting automotive landscape. Even as the brand positions itself as a leader in electrification, pledging to go all-electric where market conditions allow, it has been equally clear that combustion engines remain part of its long-term play. The brand has reaffirmed that internal combustion engines, including gasoline units, will remain in production due to uneven global EV adoption rates and continued consumer demand for traditional powertrains. That message extends up the performance ladder. Mercedes-AMG has confirmed it is developing a next-generation V8 engine and intends to retain combustion technology in its performance lineup for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, executives have acknowledged that the legendary V12 engine will remain available in select models well into the 2030s. View the full article

Kyle Larson is ready to go back to Daytona for the Rolex 24 Hours. The two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion has three starts in IMSA’s season-opening crown jewel event, but none since 2016. He took overall victory with Chip Ganassi Racing in 2015, co-driving with Scott Dixon, Tony Kanaan, and Jamie McMurray. On a recently-released episode of Dinner with Racers, a podcast co-hosted by ...Keep readingView the full article

A long-running lawsuit over allegedly defective air conditioning systems in GM full-size pickups and SUVs is now in its eighth year, and it still hasn’t been certified as a class action. The multidistrict case, In re: General Motors Air Conditioning Marketing and Sales Practices Litigation (No. 18-md-02818), is pending in federal court in Michigan and centers on claims that a shared A/C design in 2014–2017 trucks and SUVs was defective from day one. Chevrolet What Owners Say Is Wrong With GM’s Truck A/CThe current complaint focuses on certain 2014–2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 pickups, plus 2015–2017 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade models. Owners say the air conditioning systems use a faulty “combi-cooler” that integrates the A/C condenser and transmission oil cooler into a single unit. According to the suit, big temperature swings can cause thermal stress and cracks in a part attached to the condenser, letting refrigerant leak out until the A/C blows only warm air. Earlier filings also pointed to weak discharge lines and condensers that could rupture or separate, again dumping refrigerant. Plaintiffs argue GM knew about the problem as early as 2013, kept using the design, and then left owners with repair bills that could run into the low thousands when parts were back-ordered. They also frame the failure as a safety issue, saying fogged windows and high cabin temperatures can create risky driving conditions, especially in hot-weather states where many of these trucks live. Eight Years In, Class Certification Still Isn’t A Done DealDespite that, the case has narrowed rather than expanded over time. Plaintiffs are now seeking class certification only for buyers in five states: California, Florida, Michigan, Tennessee and Washington. GM is pushing back hard, arguing the claims are too individualized, state laws differ too much to be tried together, and many owners never had an A/C failure or received free repairs when they did. The company is leaning on recent appellate rulings to argue that a five-state class still isn’t manageable. It’s a familiar pattern for GM defect litigation. The company is already facing consolidated claims over a separate V8 engine issue. In both situations, buyers say they were sold vehicles with hidden weaknesses that only surfaced years later. Why It Matters For GM And Its Truck BuyersThis A/C case is not about a niche model. It targets core full-size pickups and SUVs that helped define GM’s truck business last decade and that still shape perceptions of the brand today. At the same time, GM is plowing big money into the next wave of gas-powered products, and also trying to keep buyers engaged with new tech features. Against that backdrop, an eight-year fight over basic hardware like air conditioning cuts against the message of seamless, modern ownership. If the court eventually certifies a class and the plaintiffs win, GM could be on the hook for widespread reimbursement of repair costs and potential diminished-value claims. If it doesn’t, owners who paid out of pocket may be left with individual claims that are harder to pursue. View the full article

Pacific Northwest local Eric Minsker upgrades his Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition with an Aurora rally kit, a host of top-shelf components, and a razor-sharp livery.Adventure motorcyclists are low-key among the most prolific custom motorcycle builders around. But theirs is a philosophy of function a... View the full article

A cool font is more than just simple textUnless you are a savant obsessed with graphic design or the way text on paper looks, the way a particular font meets the eyes may have never crossed your mind before. But here’s the thing: choosing the right font matters more than you think. A signature typeface can be absolutely crucial to establishing a brand’s image and mood. For example, Supreme, the New York City-based skateboard clothing brand, has practically built an empire partly on the back of a simple word printed in Helvetica’s clean, bold lettering. The word "Supreme" in this font, emblazoned on its signature box logo, has made its T-shirts, hoodies, and unusual "accessories" a defining part of streetwear culture for a generation of hypebeasts. The right font doesn’t just convey words; it communicates a particular brand’s entire vibe and identity. It's the reason why you haven't seen Coca-Cola change its iconic logo for years. However, Volvo, the Swedish automaker that practically wrote the book on automotive safety, has taken this typography phenomenon to a whole new level. It has developed its own custom typeface called Volvo Centum, and it isn’t just about a cool-looking design; it’s engineered to keep you safer on the road. Enter Volvo CentumIn collaboration with London-based type design studio Dalton Maag (the same guys who designed fonts for the BBC, Korean Air, and Netflix), Volvo has created a new font that will make its debut in the upcoming EX60 model in early 2026. This special font is designed to appear on the many screens inside Volvo cars, including on instrument clusters, infotainment systems, and navigation displays. What makes this particular font very special, in comparison to other well-known fonts like Comic Sans, Calibri, or Times New Roman, is that its designers have meticulously crafted every single character to be instantly readable at a glance, whether you’re driving in the daytime or going through dimly lit roads at night. Volvo In an interview with design publication Dezeen, Volvo Cars UX creative director Matthew Hall said that safety has been the "guiding principle" behind Volvo for "almost 100 years," adding that Centum is another component in this vision. "Volvo Centum was designed with safety in mind – by making complexity simple, being easy to absorb at a glance, reducing visual clutter and supporting a more intuitive driving experience," Hall said. "Every detail in our interface is an opportunity to create clarity and confidence, and a more intuitive driving experience, so that our customers feel safe and can trust the car." The core concept behind the typeface is extreme legibility, where text can be absorbed in a fraction of a second. Hall explained that legibility was “non-negotiable” when it came to designing the font, as it was intended to read quickly by drivers in all conditions, even at a glance. He noted that every character in Volvo Centum was “carefully crafted for quick comprehension to be instantly readable at a glance for quick comprehension, whether in bright daylight or low-light driving conditions," adding that the font adds "clarity and reduces cognitive load so drivers can grasp the most important information and focus their attention on the road." Volvo Font design is a science, according to Volvo and Dalton Maag.Dalton Maag and Volvo didn’t just design the letters to look visually stunning; they dove deep into the actual science of how our brains process visual information. Hall explained that type design is a “discipline that applies the principles of cognitive psychology and visual perception to broader design systems applied to digital or physical surfaces,” adding that these principles are amplified in a driving scenario. As a result, the team focused on character disambiguation; making sure that similar letters are clearly distinct from each other, and emphasized design features like open counters (the enclosed spaces inside letters like ‘o’ and ‘a’), and other typographic details that aid the brain in scanning and decoding individual letters. The design team also considered how the typeface would influence thinking time and the perception of messages at a glance. Their ultimate goal was to increase the number of words recognized per glance, in turn improving readability and reducing the time drivers spend looking at screens and away from traffic. Beyond pure functionality, Volvo Centum also draws inspiration from the brand’s design heritage. The typeface evokes classic Volvo models, including the beloved 1990s Volvo 850, with references to vertical tail lamps and the diagonal line of its iconic three-point safety belt. "What's been a pleasant surprise is how the same qualities that make the Volvo 850 timeless, one of my personal favourites, translate so naturally into typography," he said. "Volvo Centum's boxy curves, clean horizontal terminals, and confident straight segments create a system that is both expressive and purposeful, allowing the typeface to communicate with clarity and character." Final thoughtsFor a company approaching its 100th anniversary in 2027 (hence the name “Centum”), safety isn’t just marketing, it’s baked into Volvo’s DNA. This is the automaker that invented the three-point seatbelt in 1959 and then gave the patent away for free, allowing every car manufacturer to use it. That single decision has saved over a million lives, and Volvo has continued innovating in safety ever since. Is a custom font going to revolutionize driving? Probably not on its own. However, this move indicates that Volvo is still obsessed with keeping people safe, even in ways that seem unnoticeable or out-of-pocket. In a world where cars are quite literally smartphones on wheels, with massive touchscreens replacing physical buttons, anything that helps drivers process information faster and keep their eyes on the road is worth recognizing. View the full article

A father-and-son drag-and-drive story was born from a life-changing health scare. Its built on friendship and much more.View the full article

GM’s L87 V8 Woes ContinueThis year has been rough for General Motors, which has been dealing with an investigation, a recall, and multiple lawsuits tied to its 6.2-liter L87 small-block V8. The safety campaign affects nearly 600,000 L87-powered trucks and SUVs from the 2021–2024 model years, making this reported blown L87 engine on a relatively new 2026 GMC Yukon shared on Reddit especially hard to ignore. According to the original poster, the GMC Yukon was delivered on October 30, 2025, following a three-month wait from the time the order was placed. Despite having accumulated just 1,500 miles, the SUV reportedly lost acceleration and oil pressure while exiting a highway. The OP said the dealer determined that a complete engine replacement was required, though no further technical details were provided. Given the vehicle’s extremely low mileage, the replacement will likely be covered under warranty. However, the incident raises questions about whether similar failures could occur outside the recalled population. Recall DescriptionThe recall filed in April 2025 stated that affected trucks and SUVs – including the Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, as well as the GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL – may have been built with defective connecting rods and/or crankshaft engine components. These defects can lead to internal engine damage and, in worst-case scenarios, complete engine failure, increasing the risk of a crash, especially if the vehicle suddenly loses propulsion while in motion. To address the issue, GM instructed dealers to repair or replace the affected engines if necessary. Engines that pass inspection receive oil-related remedies, including switching from 0W-20 oil to a thicker 0W-40 formulation, along with installing a new oil filter and fill cap. However, many owners were dissatisfied with the fix, prompting the filing of multiple lawsuits that have since been consolidated into a single major case. The plaintiffs argue that the automaker's remedies are insufficient to resolve the problem. GMC Not the Fresh Start the Owner ExpectedNow facing a failure similar to those formally investigated on 2021–2024 L87-powered vehicles, the owner of the 2026 GMC Yukon wrote in the comment section that they were “really hoping 2026 would be a better year for engines, but I suppose not.” The OP also admitted regretting trading in their previous Toyota vehicle, though they did not specify the model. As the L87 situation continues to unfold, the OP appears stuck with a nearly new Yukon in the off-road-focused AT4 trim, which starts at $76,600. The model is also offered with two alternative powertrains: a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six and a 5.3-liter V8. A 10-speed automatic transmission comes standard across the entire lineup. GMC View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Among the Few With This SpecMecum Auctions has listed for sale a 1966 Plymouth Satellite, notably equipped with Chrysler’s 426 Hemi V8, widely regarded as one of the most iconic American performance engines ever built. This particular example – one of only 817 produced with the Hemi engine – has undergone a comprehensive restoration and shows just 84 miles on the odometer. The 426 Hemi first appeared in 1964 as a race-only engine and immediately made headlines after Plymouth achieved a 1-2-3 finish at the Daytona 500, with NASCAR legend Richard Petty taking the checkered flag. The V8’s overwhelming performance proved so disruptive that NASCAR effectively banned the engine the following season, and rival Ford would later develop the Boss 429 to stay competitive. Mecum Auctions Serious Muscle Under the HoodThe road-legal version of the engine, known as the Street Hemi, did not arrive until two years later. Introduced for homologation purposes, it was offered in limited numbers across several Chrysler products, including the Dodge Charger and, of course, the Plymouth Satellite. To make the engine suitable for public roads, Chrysler detuned the 426 for improved durability and drivability, though it still delivered a healthy 425 horsepower. This example retains the classic dual four-barrel carburetor setup and hemispherical cylinder heads, a configuration that allowed for superior airflow and high-RPM breathing. Supporting the powertrain is a suite of heavy-duty suspension and chassis components, paired with an A727 Torqueflite automatic transmission, making it one of 314 Satellite examples equipped with that gearbox. The listing states that the Satellite was refinished and painted red at Richard Petty Studios, a detail that subtly ties the car back to its racing roots. Externally, the car features 1966-specific Satellite trim details, along with five-spoke road wheels wrapped in redline tires. Inside, the black interior has been restored with a sporty, period-correct treatment, highlighted by front bucket seats and a floor-mounted shifter. Mecum Auctions Headed for Six FiguresDespite the odometer reading of fewer than 100 miles, this 1966 Satellite is unlikely to qualify as a true time capsule. Instead, the mileage almost certainly reflects limited use following its nut-and-bolt rotisserie restoration. Estimated to sell for $150,000 to $160,000, the Hemi-powered Satellite is scheduled to cross the block at Mecum’s Kissimmee auction next month. The event is also set to feature several other high-profile lots, including a BMW M1 previously owned by three-time Formula 1 World Champion Niki Lauda. Mecum Auctions View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Where Cadillac Learned to Go FastThe Nürburgring Nordschleife in Germany has long served as a proving ground for high-performance vehicles, and Cadillac was no exception. General Motors recently revisited the early development work that led to the Cadillac CTS-V, the brand’s first purpose-built V-Series performance car. Ken Morris, now GM’s senior vice president of product programs, recalled taking an early CTS prototype to the Nürburgring in the late 1990s with a clear objective: to engineer a car designed for the racetrack yet refined enough for everyday road use. Cadillac looked for a response to European rivals with established high-performance divisions, notably BMW and its celebrated M brand. According to Morris, the development team logged roughly 600 laps around the Green Hell during the prototype phase. For perspective, a modern Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, producing 1,064 horsepower, lapped the 12.9-mile track in a record-setting 6:50.763. By comparison, the production CTS was powered by a 3.2-liter V6 making 220 horsepower, which illustrates just how demanding those 600 development laps must have been. General Motors Fine-Tuning Beyond the ThrottleAcceleration, however, was only one aspect of the development; the team also worked on braking performance and steering precision. Building on data gathered from the CTS prototype during testing, the CTS-V received stiffer suspension components, larger brakes, high-performance tires mounted on 18-inch wheels, and a strengthened rear differential. The team also developed the advanced four-mode stability-control system, which would later evolve into Performance Traction Management (PTM)—a technology now found in modern Cadillac V-Series models such as the CT5-V Blackwing. “When you dial in a car on the Nürburgring, it makes the car feel so much better on the highway,” Morris said. “If you have to make an evasive maneuver, it can help make the car feel more planted.” Cadillac launched the CTS on GM’s then-new Sigma platform in 2003, before introducing the performance-focused CTS-V a year later. The model was equipped with a 5.7-liter LS6 V8, but in 2006, the engine was replaced with a 6.0-liter LS2 V8 sourced from the newly released C6 Corvette. “It was a great time because there was zero doubt about what the mission was, zero ambiguity about what we were trying to do, and it was really fun,” Morris said. “Fast forward to today, what V-Series models can achieve boggles my mind. It’s just gotten better and better as time goes on.” General Motors The Next Chapter for Cadillac PerformanceToday, the future of V-Series sedans remains uncertain. Cadillac has confirmed that the next-generation CT5 will retain an internal-combustion engine, reversing earlier plans to transition the model to an all-electric format. At the same time, the V-Series badge continues to expand into performance-oriented EVs, including the Optiq-V and Lyriq-V, placing the brand in a growing segment that includes models such as the Tesla Model Y Performance. Beyond its road-going lineup, Cadillac is preparing to enter Formula 1 as the series' 11th team beginning in the 2026 season, underscoring the brand’s performance ambitions. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Trade-Offs As turbochargers and other advanced engine technologies become more common, newer vehicles generally deliver measurable gains over their predecessors in efficiency, emissions, and performance. However, YouTuber speedkar99 argues that this added complexity can come at the expense of long-term reliability, a claim he supports through a teardown of Honda’s R18 engine. The R18 is a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated inline-four used in the 8th- and 9th-generation Honda Civic. It is also notable as the final non-turbo Civic engine before the 10th-generation model, which debuted in North America in 2015, introduced turbocharging to the mainstream lineup. The engine featured in the teardown came from a 2012 Civic and had accumulated roughly 210,000 kilometers (130,489 miles), with its primary issue traced to a head gasket leak. Inside the Honda R18According to speedkar99, the R18’s appeal lies in its simplicity. The engine uses a plastic valve cover and intake manifold, and relies on port fuel injection rather than the direct-injection systems common in newer engines. With port injection, fuel is sprayed into the intake port, allowing gasoline to wash over the intake valves and help prevent carbon buildup. By contrast, direct injection sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber, which can improve power and efficiency but is also associated with carbon buildup over time. The R18 also features an economy-focused i-VTEC system. Unlike performance-oriented Honda engines, this setup does not rely on aggressive valve-lift changes. Instead, it prioritizes efficiency and smooth operation, lowering the risk of wear-related damage. Upon removing the cylinder head, speedkar99 found burn marks on the head gasket between cylinders two and three, confirming a part failure. The breach allowed coolant to mix with combustion gases, which reduced the engine’s ability to regulate temperature, as low coolant levels directly compromise cooling performance. However, he attributed the failure to prolonged overheating that went unaddressed by the driver, rather than to an inherent design flaw. The remaining engine components, such as the oil pan, crankshaft, and connecting rods, were in good condition. For an engine with roughly 130,000 miles, however, minor wear such as carbon buildup on the piston crowns is largely unavoidable. speedkar99 on YouTube Long Live The NAIn his conclusion, speedkar99 argued that the R18’s lack of turbocharging, straightforward design, and use of port injection are key contributors to its durability. As a counterpoint, some modern turbocharged engines have faced early reliability concerns, including the 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 used in the third-generation Toyota Tundra, which has been linked to reports of premature engine failures. In Honda's lineup, the current 11th-generation Civic continues the turbocharged approach, while hybrid variants (which use a dual-electric-motor setup) add further complexity, increasing the number of components that could fail over time. speedkar99 on YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

An enclosed, HVAC-equipped six-passenger UTV appears out of the dark and instantly raises questions.View the full article

A new car purchase is never a decision to be taken lightly, and with the average new car price in 2025 exceeding $50,000 for the first time ever, finding a bargain may feel almost impossible. But new research from Hagerty indicates that the Mazda MX-5 Miata is an incredibly high-value purchase because, adjusted for inflation, it's cheaper in 2025 than it ever has been. Working off data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the report says that a current-generation ND Miata has been cheaper than ever in its history since 2022. That's truly amazing given the amount of technology that has found its way into the sports car since its introduction in 1989. Breaking Down the Data That Shows the Miata is Cheaper Hagerty Hagerty's research reveals that a 1990 Miata (NA generation) carried a base MSRP of $13,800 when it was launched in 1989 and eventually had an asking price of $19,125 by 1997. Adjusted for inflation to 2025, both it and its NB successor peaked at over $39,000, while last year's ND Miata, which was initially launched with a $25,735 MSRP, was priced at a little more than $30,000. Look at the Mazda USA website today, and the Miata starts at $29,830, or almost $10,000 less than the first two generations. For the record, the NB Miata's highest starting price reached $22,098, while the third-generation NC started at $20,435 and peaked at $25,595. The latter's adjusted-for-inflation peak MSRP was calculated at between $32,000 and $36,000, depending on model year. Related: A Decade Of Driving Joy: How Mazda Perfected The ND Miata What Makes the ND MX-5 Miata So CompellingLike its predecessors, the current Mazda MX-5 Miata is powered by a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. The latest Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter 16-valve mill under the hood develops a peppy 181 horsepower at 7,000 rpm - considerably more than the early NA Miata's 1.6-liter mill, which made 115 hp, or later variants, which had a 1.8-liter making 128 hp. And while the first-gen MX-5 weighed around 2,200 lbs, the current fourth-gen variant can weigh roughly 20 lbs less, depending on year and spec. What's more, you can get access to things like cupholders, electric windows, an infotainment system you can connect your phone to, and safety equipment like blind-spot monitoring. And while a 1990 Miata delivers an EPA estimate of between 25-30 mpg, a 2025 model has a rating of 26/34 city/highway (and even 1 mpg more on the highway if you choose an automatic). Is there any other car in the world that is as compelling? We're not sure, and the fact that it's a rear-wheel-drive sports car is just a bonus. It's just a pity owners don't drive them very often. Rocketeer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Watch Carson Brown try to beat the Pastranaland lap record set on a 500cc 2-stroke Suzuki, aka the RMZilla, aboard a Stark Varg.View the full article

When it comes to drag racing, passion isn’t quite a strong enough word to describe the mindset of specific individuals towards the sport. Synonyms such as obsession, enthusiasm, and devotion certainly reflect the intended verbiage, but regardless of the phrase, the emotion is undeniably present when speaking to Brandon Barker. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. The Ontario, Canada, native and father of two daughters has literally built his life around drag racing. He and his wife, Rachel, are both racers and co-own the drag racing lifestyle brand, BracketLife. Brandon co-hosts the BracketLife Brand podcast with Andrew Stirk and has even branched into the realm of education through this year’s inaugural Bracket Racing 101 course. It’s believed that his infatuation began during his first visit to a racetrack, at only six months old, and Barker has never been more than a crawl’s distance away ever since. He has accumulated numerous victories, including being the first three-time Super Tour National Champion and becoming the winningest racer in Super Tour history with nine wins and 10 consecutive Top 10 finishes throughout 10 years. He claimed the John Scotti Canadian National Open Series championship in Super Comp this season during his first attempt at throttle-stop racing. Earning the Luskville Dragway track championship for the first time this season added a sentimental edge to his impressive season. “You feel those butterflies in your stomach, and you know it’s a meaningful day that’s going to matter,” Brandon explains. “Luskville has been open for 40 years, and the championship trophy has so many guys’ names on it that I grew up watching since I was born, and so many legends in my mind. You see the winners every year, and then you add your name to that, so hopefully someone is going to feel that way in the future about seeing you on there. That’s the cool part of winning a hometown series…it holds a lot of weight for the local guys and those who keep the sport going.” Barker’s on-track success highlights only a fraction of his impact throughout the bracket racing world. His cross-country traveling experience to various racetracks, combined with his candid nature, has created an audience of friends and followers throughout the years, which he has meticulously utilized to share the spotlight. “There’s really no outlet for Canadians to get their name out there [as compared to the United States],” Barker says. “The idea behind the BracketLife Broadcast was ‘Canada’s Drag Racing Show,’ and we want to highlight Canadian racers and talk about them the way that they should be. The best thing for sportsman drag racing was the Luke [Bogacki] and Jed [Jared Pennington] podcast, because they are talking about such awesome racers and stories. I wanted to bring that here to give the Canadian racers a platform to be celebrated.” Another way the Barkers are giving back is by sharing a wealth of knowledge through the Bracket Racing 101 course. Brandon believes that by helping the racers who may not feel as confident in their racing programs but are willing to put in the work if given the right tools, he can help ignite the same fiery passion for the sport that his family has. Everyone agrees racing is more enjoyable when you’re winning, and in the iron-sharpening-iron mentality, the entire sport will benefit. “We all want to drive, we all want to be successful and get noticed, and I’ve been fortunate to have my fair share of success on the racetrack,” says Barker. “I wanted to be chosen [for the 30 Under 30 List] because of how I drive, but I want to keep building and be so much more than that. It’s cool when you’re doing the backend work, just to be involved for the love of the sport and to keep growing it.” Although well-deserved, Barker would like to acknowledge that his wife also shares his success and accolades. “I wouldn’t be able to do anything without Rachel being so supportive and a huge part of it,” he says. “It’s my name and brand on all of it, but you don’t get to do all this stuff without a partner that’s supportive and involved in it as much as you. I’m just looking forward to what we can do as a team.”Many people claim to eat, sleep, and breathe the sport, but there is a strong working theory that Barker actually does. “I love racing, being part of it, and everything to do with it. And I just want more,” he says with a laugh. “Racing is my life, and I want to make a career out of being involved in the sport. As much as we’d all love to do that just on the racetrack, it’s not very likely, so whatever fashion that is, I’d like that to be my profession. When you have a lot of big plans and big ideas, there’s only one way to get there…keep working and moving forward.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Brandon Barker first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Several spy shots of the new BMW 5-series, in both its sedan and Touring formats, are making rounds on the internet. While that’s happening on one end, as per, someone from Russia has decided to liven things up, rendering the new facelifted 5-series LCI based on what we know so far. Kolesa.ru shared a few photos of the non-camo’d Bimmer online, which, taken at face value, does make it seem like BMW is moving away from its beaver-teeth ethos. Although the design never fully made it to the 5-series, the G8X M3s and M4s—even the LCIs—are still shouldering the burden, with the Neue Klasse finally delivering a more palatable impression. Kolesa.ru The render has taken some inspiration from BMW’s radical new design philosophy, evidenced by the full-length headlights that remind us of the new iX3. However, we expected to see a lot more of the Neue Klasse styling in the render. While the grille design resembles a toned-down version of the controversial buck-tooth design, we have seen spy shots of the new 5 sporting a “regular-sized” grille, so it may not be an accurate representation, shall we say. However, nothing’s certain as of yet, and BMW could be intentionally misleading us with its clever camouflage. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that this render leans heavily into the LCI theme, as the sides and rear look very similar to the G90 M5/i5 M60, with the model even sporting the massive M-branded wheels from the current-generation flagship 5-series electric. So what about the inside? Unfortunately, there’s nothing available. That said, if we piece together what BMW has done in the past, it’s reasonable to assume the new 5-series LCI will likely get some of the Neu Klasse-inspired interior accoutrements. It may not be as dramatic as the new iX3, but expect some of the fancy electronics to find their way into this LCI model. As for powertrain options, we reckon BMW will likely carry over the existing options with a few subtle tweaks. The 255-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is expected to remain unchanged, while the 3.0-liter turbo inline-six might see a slight power increase. The PHEV and pure-EV versions will likely bring along efficiency upgrades in the form of improved driving range. View the full article

We were already impressed by the new 2026 Can-Am Defender HD11 in our initial first drive, but seeing it get thrashed by pros across the brand's new Derby competition, we didn't even come close to its potential.View the full article

Bobby Rahal is letting go of one of the crown jewels in Japanese car history. His 1967 Toyota 2000GT, chassis MF10-10128, is currently listed on Bring a Trailer as a dealer-consignment Premium auction through Graham Rahal Performance. One of just 351 examples built during a three-year production run, this right-hand-drive Solar Red coupe comes with an unusually well-documented global backstory, a fresh mechanical pedigree, and a recent class win at the 2024 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. As of this writing, bidding sits at $751,251 with several days left on the clock, and interest is heavy, with thousands of views and more than 3,400 watchers. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A World-Traveling 2000GT With Serious ProvenanceToyota and Yamaha developed the 2000GT together, debuting the prototype at the 1965 Tokyo Motor Show and hand-building production cars at Yamaha’s Itawa factory starting in 1967. Styled by Satoru Nozaki, the low-slung fastback coupe features pop-up headlights, driving lamps faired into the nose, bullet-style fender mirrors, and louvered panels flanking the hood, with the contoured roof standing under 46 inches tall. This particular car is said to have been sold new in Mozambique before being acquired by a South African collector in the late 1970s. It briefly passed through the U.S. in 1986, then went to a Costa Rican Toyota importer who kept it for the next 28 years. Between 2013 and 2014, the car underwent a full refurbishment at Restauraciones Clásicas in Costa Rica, including removal of the body from its steel X-shaped backbone frame and a refinish in Solar Red. The bumpers, grille surround, and other brightwork were replated by The Finishing Touch in Chicago. A UK buyer later commissioned additional paint and bodywork in 2015 from Paulerspury Coachworks, targeting the hood, tailgate, right-front fender, quarter panels, and left side of the cowl. The car then sold on BaT in 2016, returned to the platform again in 2021, and was purchased by its current owner, three-time CART champion and 1986 Indy 500 winner Bobby Rahal. Under Rahal’s ownership, the car won its class at Amelia Island in 2024, and ribbons plus concours memorabilia are included with the sale. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Refreshed Chassis, Period Cabin, And A 3M DOHC SixUnderneath, the 2000GT’s Yamaha-built backbone chassis carries four-wheel independent suspension and servo-assisted disc brakes all around. This car rides on 15-inch magnesium alloy wheels secured by bright knock-offs and wrapped in 165HR15 Vredestein Sprint Classic tires, with a matching spare on Dunlop rubber in the rear cargo area. A 2015 mechanical refresh by Classic Performance Engineering in Bicester, UK, brought rebuilt brake calipers, reconditioned rotors, a new servo, replacement Eibach springs, Öhlins shocks, and a rebuilt steering rack. Power comes from the 1,988cc 3M inline-six, which uses a cast-iron block and a Yamaha-designed aluminum twin-cam head with hemispherical combustion chambers. Induction is via triple Mikuni-Solex 40 PHH carburetors rebuilt in 2015. That same round of work included reconditioned camshafts, valve shimming, and the installation of a Facet fuel pump. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an all-synchromesh five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, both rebuilt in 2015, along with a new flywheel, clutch, release bearing, clutch master cylinder, and refurbished driveshafts. Inside, the right-hand-drive cockpit is trimmed in black vinyl with knitted seat inserts and color-matched carpeting. Wood veneer accents the dash and center console, and the wood-rimmed steering wheel with matching hub fronts a 250-km/h speedometer and a 7,000-rpm redline tachometer. The five-digit odometer shows 78,000 kilometers (about 48,000 miles), with roughly 50 kilometers added under Rahal’s ownership. Auxiliary gauges monitor fuel level, oil pressure and temperature, coolant temperature, and amperage, all sitting above a pushbutton AM radio. Period-correct Jeco timepieces include a standard clock and a dual-faced rally timer with stop/start and reset buttons. Toyota A Blue-Chip Toyota In A Very Different Showroom WorldToday, most shoppers encounter Toyota through efficient commuters and rugged family trucks, from hybrids like the Prius to body-on-frame staples such as the Toyota 4Runner. At the other end of the spectrum, the company is preparing customer race hardware like the Toyota GR GT3. The 2000GT sits in a different lane altogether: a hand-built, 1960s halo car that laid the groundwork for everything that followed. That context is what makes Bobby Rahal’s example so compelling. You get one of 351 cars, a globe-spanning ownership trail, documented restoration and mechanical work, a recent class win at a major concours, and a current listing through a high-profile racing name. The BaT lot (MF10-10128) is offered on dealer consignment out of Zionsville, Indiana, with refurbishment records, photo documentation, invoices, Amelia Island memorabilia, and a clean Pennsylvania title in the name of Rahal’s dealership. There’s also a modest $245.28 document fee tacked on by the seller. With just nine bids on the board so far and days left before the auction closes, it would be surprising if this 2000GT didn’t climb well beyond its current mid-six-figure number. For collectors who see Japanese classics as core blue-chip assets rather than outliers, this is exactly the sort of car that doesn’t come around very often. View the full article

While we have seen Bluetooth controller access in modern infotainment systems, this is the first time we’re actually seeing PS Remote Play natively offered in any production car. The feature is made available in Sony-Honda Mobility’s Afeela 1 EV, a joint venture backed by two of Japan’s largest conglomerates. Playing video games while your EV charges or when the passenger is bored during your long trip are likely the proposed use cases here. The company says your PS5 and PS4 controllers can remotely connect to the Afeela’s integrated infotainment display, offering a seamless gaming experience to all participants. You would expect that, given it’s one of the company’s hottest-selling commodities, so it’s only natural that it finds a spot in its first-ever EV collab. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/uCVbELB9cCY As for internet speeds, Sony-Honda Mobility recommends a 5Mbps broadband connection, while a higher 15Mbps rate should guarantee a lag-free gaming session. Simply pair a DualSense controller to the car, and start browsing through the PlayStation library to get started. Afeela 1’s hardware is optimised to natively support both PS4 and PS5 titles. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Sony is responsible for the Afeela EV’s electronics and software, while Honda takes care of the manufacturing and car side of things. Also, it’s worth pointing out that the Afeela 1 is not a cheap car, with its entry-level Origin trim starting at $90,000. However, the EV itself isn’t particularly ground-breaking, shall we say. For starters, the combined power rating of the Afeela 1 is around the low-400-horsepower range, with two 241-hp electric motors on each axle. Sony Honda Mobility Sony-Honda reckons the Afeela 1’s circa 91-kWh battery is good for 300 miles of driving range, with up to 150 kW of fast-charge capability. As you can probably tell, these claims don't seem all that impressive, especially for a $100,000-plus electric vehicle (in its top-spec Signature trim) that's scheduled for a 2026 release. ​ View the full article

Vespa will lead a pre-1966 scooter parade at the 2026 Goodwood Revival, celebrating the roots of modern two-wheel culture.View the full article

The Cboys stark-swapped a shifter kart and studded its tyres so it could rip around on ice. Now it wheelies. View the full article

The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has been setting records all over the world, becoming the fastest American production car to lap the Nürburgring. It's also recently been crowned the fastest car ever to lap Sonoma Raceway, and the fastest car around five other American racetracks. Now, Hennessey has taken a stock Corvette ZR1 to another record, though perhaps one not quite as prestigious as the others, beating a Hennessey Venom 1000 Ford Mustang by setting the highest speed ever achieved by a road-legal car carrying a Christmas tree. For the record (ha!), the speed it had to beat was 192 mph, and it did that by 4 mph, hitting 196 mph. You can watch that run at the bottom of this article. Not Just Any Tree, Not Just Any Supercar Hennessey Performance View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Specifically, the team at Hennessey strapped a 5.5-foot Christmas tree to the roof of the 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged supercar. Controlling the 1,064-horsepower 'Vette on its path down the runway at Chase Field, Beeville, Texas, was Hennessey's professional driver, Spencer Geswein, who was also behind the wheel for the previous record and when the 1,817-hp Venom F5 exceeded 270 mph back in 2022. And he'll likely have to do it all again next year - since this is Hennessey we're talking about, this black (paint code GBA) ZR1 probably won't stay stock for long, even with the world's largest factory-fitted turbos already equipped. Regardless, this has become an annual tradition for Hennessey, a company that never shies from the unexpected. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Previous Christmas Tree RecordsHennessey began its unusual tradition back in 2017, when it strapped a tree to the roof of a Dodge Challenger Hellcat Widebody, setting a time of 174 mph. Two years later, it decided to revisit the concept with its HPE1000-enhanced Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. That set a new speed of 181 mph, and a year later, a Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang went 1 mph quicker. In 2021, A Hennessey-tuned Audi RS6 Avant with 800 hp did 183 mph (see? Hennessey doesn't only work on American cars). In 2022, a Porsche 911 Turbo S only managed 175 mph, so the Venom 1000 Mustang was called in and clocked 192 mph. Three years later, it's the ZR1 claiming top honors at 196 mph. For the record, the ZR1 can do 233 mph without any foliage. Will Hennessey crack 200 mph? Find out in 12 months' time. View the full article

After two decades of stability, the sprawling Hatfield-McCoy off-road trail system enters a new chapter that could redefine its impact on riders and rural communities alike.View the full article