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There was minimal movement throughout the NASCAR Cup Series garage during the off-season, but still enough to talk about. Beyond driver moves, there were also a couple of manufacturer changes and a flurry of crew chief swaps that will be notable stories to follow during the year. Here's a look at what's different for 2026: Drivers on the move Connor Zilisch, Trackhouse Racing ...Keep readingView the full article

A 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe is up for auction on Cars and Bids, offering the full gullwing experience in a package that looks aimed at someone who actually plans to use it. The car is listed with 67,500 miles, Iridium Silver Metallic paint, and a Classic Red interior, and it is being sold out of Marietta, Georgia with a reserve in place and bidding sitting around $160,000 at last check. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A Driver Miles Gullwing SupercarThe SLS remains one of the most distinctive modern AMG cars, because the shape, the doors, and the naturally aspirated V8 all feel like they come from a brief moment when Mercedes decided to build something theatrical without apology. Under the hood is the 6.2 liter V8 rated at 563 horsepower and 479 pound feet of torque, driving the rear wheels through a seven speed automatic and a limited slip differential. The listing also calls out 19 inch front and 20 inch rear wheels, heated seats, carbon fiber interior trim, and a Bang and Olufsen surround sound system. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article What The Listing ShowsThis example sits in a different lane than the low mileage collector cars that sometimes appear, like a 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing, or even a 2011 Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing. Here, the appeal is that the miles suggest the car has been used and maintained rather than stored, although bidders still need to read the disclosures carefully. The listing references a Carfax history that notes front end damage reported in January 2017, with the seller stating the front right has been repainted. Condition notes include chips on the front end, scratches on the front wheels, tires dated 2016 and 2018, and interior wear on upholstery and door panels. The seller also notes tinted windows, a recent oil and filter change, and replacement door struts, with one key included. How To Think About ValueFor buyers, the main question is whether this is the right SLS lane, because the market has multiple flavors and use cases, including later variants like the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT that can command different money depending on spec and mileage. A higher mile SLS can make sense if you want the experience without paying peak collector premiums, but the tires, paintwork history, and disclosed wear all become part of the real cost of entry. View the full article

Paul Lee Racing taps Jon Schaffer as their new Crew Chief. The veteran tuner partners with John Medlen following the team's breakout season.View the full article

The Ferrari 12Cilindri was revealed nearly two years ago as the replacement for the 812 Superfast, and that means buyers of Maranello's only remaining V12 product have had plenty of time to let their imaginations run wild. Ferrari still won't let you paint its cars pink, but purple with white accents? That is now acceptable. As part of the Tailor Made program — like Porsche's Sonderwunsch or Bentley's Mulliner Bespoke — Ferrari has just revealed a car that it describes as "the celebration of the pinnacle of craftsmanship." The unique 12Cilindri (best seen in a video embedded lower in this article) was designed and built over these last two years with input from artists in Asia, Ferrari's Styling Centre in Europe, and American design, culture, and tech publication Cool Hunting, and as always with a one-off, the special paint and upholstery were not selected at random. But at first glance, something this wild could be mistaken for an aftermarket creation, perhaps a Mansory build, and it seems that Ferrari may be loosening the reins on its customers' creativity. 12Cilindri Gets Flip Paint and 3D Fabric Ferrari View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article This V12-powered grand tourer features a new Yoonseul paint scheme, an iridescent finish specially developed for this car and inspired, in part, by Korean traditional Celadon ceramics. That's referenced in the green hue, while the violet tones are meant to call to mind the Korean capital of Seoul and its K-pop, electronic music, and neon lights. Finally, blues take their inspiration from the "sparkling sunlight on the sea, Yoonseul in Korean." Korean artist Dahye Jeong, who specializes in hand-weaving fabrics, worked on the seat, floor, and soft surface fabrics of the 12Cilindri's cabin, with a new 3D fabric being created in her home country for its debut application in a Ferrari. Occupants can see her work in the glass roof, too, where a screen printing of the fabric's latticework pattern appears. Handwoven Mongolian horsehair features in the dashboard, while Hyunhee Kim, another Korean artist, helped craft the cabin's translucent-effect center tunnel, nameplate plaque, and trunk luggage case. Also noteworthy are the translucent key fob, Scuderia Ferrari shields, wheelcaps, wordmark badge, and Prancing Horse. Since when does Ferrari allow its badging to be customized? 2026, it seems. White Accents? On a Factory Ferrari? Yes Ferrari View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article For the first time on a factory-finished Ferrari, this 12Cilindri wears white brake calipers and white shift paddles, inspired by yet another artist's work, that of TaeHyun Lee, whose "extremely complex" lacquer techniques are famed in Korea. As a finishing touch, GRAYCODE, jiiiiin, an electronic artist duo, rendered the sound of the 12Cilindri's 6.5-liter V12 "into a visual artwork" on the car's hood, which was applied using the same traditional paint but a shade darker, which is another first for a factory Ferrari. With such diverse collaborations and such intense attention to detail, there's no doubt that this particular 12Cilindri will have vastly exceeded its $464,000 base cost, but there's nothing else like it anywhere in the world. To those of us without eight- or nine-figure bank accounts, it may be just a green, blue, and purple Ferrari with a white interior, but this 12Cilindri is proof that Maranello is letting customers take more risks than ever before. That's good for Ferrari's accountants, but does this freedom remove some of the world's most snobbish automaker's stubborn air of superiority when it comes to what is and isn't allowed, and is that a good thing? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. View the full article

The Chosen OneWhen we think of celebrity rides, we often think of a flashy, luxury vehicle of sorts — looking at you, G-Wagen. But there are those who prefer to keep things under the radar. Perhaps it's the preference for a simpler lifestyle, but it's nice knowing high-profile figures puttering around in more relatable rides. One such example is, apparently, Ewan McGregor. Granted, he's better known as a motorcycle guy, but when it comes to four wheels, his chosen ride was something we could all easily buy in a Toyota showroom. Turns out, he once had a 2018 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road Premium, although it's been customized in a way that it wouldn't look too out of place in Tatooine. By the way, it's for sale via Bring a Trailer. Bring a Trailer It's Packing Mods, By the WayMcGregor does seem to have an adventurous spirit, as shown in the 2004 limited series, Long Way Round. That's pretty much reflected with the mods made to this particular Stormtrooper white example. Most obvious is the beefed-up suspension and chunky all-terrain tires. This 4Runner comes equipped with steel bumpers at the front and rear, along with a swing-out spare tire carrier. We can also see some accessories in the form of a roof tray, LED driving lights, an awning, and a snorkel. The interior is mostly stock, save for an auxiliary switch panel and a secondary navigation system. Bring a Trailer Under the HoodBut the main highlight here has to be the engine. Now, the 4.0-liter V6 has reliability that doesn't miss, but this particular one has been given more punch. That's because a Magnuson supercharger has been bolted to it, which should provide a healthy amount of boost. It won't outrun a Jedi Starfighter, but it should be quicker than a garden-variety 4Runner from the 2010s. For reference, the standard V6 engine made 270 hp and 278 lb-ft, so the supercharger probably brings the horsepower figure closer to 300 hp or more. Mind you, the Toyota 4.0-liter is a thirsty beast, and the supercharger, heavy all-terrain tires, and the lift kit won't do it any favors. Bring a Trailer How Much?At the time of writing, there are four days left at the auction, and the top bid is at $20,000. It's far from a pristine example, though, as there are some battle scars present on it. There are scrapes on the steel bumper and some scuffs on the bodywork, but at least we know it was well-enjoyed. All things considered, it's not a bad price, as used 4Runners from the same year can still sell for much more than that. It's also much cheaper than getting a brand-new one and fitting the same mods by a long shot. To whoever's lucky enough to buy it, take it up the trail and have the high ground. Bring a Trailer Bring a Trailer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Tough Luck on Four WheelsTesla endured a difficult sales year in 2025, as Chinese automaker BYD overtook it to become the world’s top-selling electric-vehicle maker. New tariffs and regulatory shifts that have slowed EV adoption could place additional pressure on the Austin-based automaker, but the company may have found a new long-term growth driver through its in-development Optimus humanoid robot. Tesla CEO Elon Musk did not push back against a claim made by entrepreneur and investor Jason Calacanis at the All-In Summit. Calacanis suggested that Optimus could become so influential that “nobody will remember that Tesla ever made a car.” Musk later responded to the remark on X, saying, “Probably true.” Probably true — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 15, 2026 More Than Just a Car CompanyThe Optimus project is expected to operate under the Tesla umbrella, aligning it with a broader trend among automakers exploring humanoid robotics, such as Hyundai’s work with Atlas. Tesla's humanoid robot is positioned as a general-purpose assistant capable of performing physically demanding or potentially hazardous tasks. Musk has previously targeted a price of around $20,000 for Optimus – roughly half the cost of an entry-level Tesla Model 3. If Musk succeeds in selling one million Optimus units, it would satisfy one of the key targets tied to his proposed $1 trillion compensation package. Calacanis, who claims to have visited Tesla’s Optimus lab, expressed optimism in the project’s potential, suggesting that Musk could ultimately produce not just a million, but a “billion” robots. He went so far as to call it “the most transformative technology product ever made in the history of humanity.” Another target of that ambitious payout plan involves deploying up to one million robotaxis, which centers on Tesla’s two-seat Cybercab. The Cybercab is being developed as a fully autonomous vehicle, eliminating the need for a steering wheel or pedals. Production is expected to begin in April 2026, although the vehicle has yet to receive regulatory approvals for autonomous operation, and the Cybercab trademark name remains on hold. Tesla Can Robots Rewrite History?Despite Musk’s suggestion that Optimus could eventually overshadow Tesla’s automotive legacy, that outcome is highly uncertain. The automaker played a pivotal role in reshaping the modern EV industry, beginning with the original Roadster at a time when EVs were still widely viewed as a niche. The lineup has since continued to deliver competitive performance, particularly with the 1,020-horsepower Plaid variants on the Model S and Model X. However, given the company’s setbacks – such as federal regulators scrutinizing the Full Self-Driving system over safety issues, the Cybertruck struggling to meet early expectations, and recurring quality concerns – the brand may still be remembered, but not in a positive light. Tesla View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Quiet Italian NameFerrari and Lamborghini usually get all the attention when it comes to Italian cars – maybe even Lancia, which has been trying to revive itself recently. However, there are other names from Italy that deserve attention. We're talking about the lesser-known brand called Iso Rivolta, and in various shapes, names, and forms, the automaker has been around since 1938. By the mid-1970s, Iso Rivolta had mostly disappeared from the scene – that’s until 2019 when the brand joined forces with Milan’s Zagato to build the Iso Rivolta GTZ. The car has the spirit of the 1960s Iso Rivolta A3, updated to modern standards. Only 19 cars were ever built, and just one ended up in the US. That very car is now up for sale. duPont Registry Carbon Fiber, Red Paint, and Zagato DetailsThe GTZ doesn’t try to pass itself off as a modern supercar. Instead, it focuses on classic proportions and clean lines. The long hood, fastback roof, and smooth sides all nod to Zagato’s racing history, but the design avoids feeling like a throwback. The body is made entirely from carbon fiber and finished in a Le Mans Red tri-coat metallic that fits its coachbuilt roots. Every part of the exterior is custom, from the lights to the glass to the wheels. You wouldn’t guess it shares a platform with the Corvette, and that’s part of what makes it interesting. Inside, the approach is just as subtle. Charcoal Italian leather, red stitching, brushed aluminum, and power sport seats give it a tailored feel without being flashy. It’s modern, but not built around screens or tech for the sake of it. This particular GTZ even has some history, having won its class at The Quail Motorsports Gathering during Monterey Car Week in 2021. duPont Registry Corvette Power Under the HoodUnderneath the carbon body, the hardware is intentionally familiar. The GTZ uses a Corvette Z06-spec 6.2-liter supercharged LT4 V8 with 660 horsepower, matched to an eight-speed automatic. Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes handle the stopping, and the carbon construction keeps weight down to about 2,645 pounds. It’s a direct nod to Renzo Rivolta’s original idea: Italian looks, American power, and no unnecessary drama. This car has only 885 miles on the clock, so it’s basically in as-new condition. The price isn’t listed, but for context, the same GTZ sold for about $1.35 million in 2021. With just one in the US, a tiny production run, and Zagato’s name on the build, it’s no surprise that we expect a similar if not higher pricing. If exclusivity matters to you, this is the kind of car that needs both a spot in the garage and some room in the budget. duPont Registry View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Days after Hyundai unveiled the nine-seater Staria electric minivan, the automaker is already looking into more niche uses for the platform. That brings us to the Staria Camper Concept, which was shown at the CMT (Caravan, Motor und Touristik) trade fair in Stuttgart. The concept is a study into how the normal passenger van can be modified to function as a premium recreational vehicle. A lightweight solar panel and a power-operated, pop-up roof are just two of multiple innovations that make this a fantastic camper van. And the best part? Hyundai is seriously considering building a production model, which would make it the ideal rival for camper versions of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz. Sleek Looks Conceal Versatile Interior Hyundai Staria Camper Concept Hyundai View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Like the standard electric Staria, the Staria Camper Concept is quite a futuristic take on the minivan theme. It doesn’t look nearly as dowdy as a Honda Odyssey. The Hyundai has modern-looking daytime running lights, a large glasshouse (with privacy glass), and sliding doors for easy access. Much of the magic lies inside, though, starting with the power pop-up roof. When raised, it creates a brighter and more open-feeling living space, while also allowing easier access to the kitchen area. This roof features an integrated 520W composite solar panel, too, which generates up to 2.6 kWh of electricity per day—assuming it gets an average of five hours of sunlight. Any free energy when traveling far from chargers or the city is helpful, so the solar panel’s ability to power up features like the on-board refrigerator, portable shower, or climate control system is welcome. Hyundai The Staria Camper also has rear-cabin smart glass that’s electronically adjustable, enhancing comfort and privacy whether you’re on the move or resting. Via a dedicated touchscreen, the transparency of the shading can be easily adjusted, which is useful since the flexible interior can be reconfigured for sleeping, traveling, or dining. There’s also an awning that expands the shaded area beyond the interior. Related: Honda Just Unveiled a Solar-Powered Camper You Can Tow With an EV What About The Powertrain? Hyundai Staria Camper Concept Hyundai View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Like the production Staria EV, the Camper Concept has the same single electric motor driving the front wheels. It produces 215 horsepower, so it’s no tire-shredding performer, but that isn’t what this vehicle is about. More importantly, it shares the 800-volt high-voltage architecture with production Hyundai EVs like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. This setup enables fast DC charging from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 20 minutes. The total range is around 250 miles on the WLTP cycle. To make long journeys more pleasant, Hyundai has included various sound-deadening materials. Hyundai says the Staria Camper will remain under evaluation during the CMT trade fair until January 25. Should the reception be positive, Hyundai will consider putting the vehicle into production, tailored specifically to the European market. This means it’s unlikely we’ll see it in the United States. A Nimbler Alternative To Bulky RVs H Depending on how seriously you take your adventures away from home, a camper van like the Staria Concept is a worthy alternative to a full-on RV. To drive, campers are nimbler, typically more efficient, and easier to park. A variety of accessories allow you to expand the living space when parked, such as the Staria’s pop-up roof. In the United States, conversions based on the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Ram ProMaster are typically some of the most sought-after camper vans. But fully electric vehicles like the Staria promise quieter trips and more modern amenities. Peace Vans, a Seattle-based shop, already does camper packages for Volkswagen’s electric ID.Buzz. With battery technologies and charging infrastructure steadily improving, these larger EVs are set to become more common choices for family getaways. Related: Should Mitsubishi Revive the Delica Space Gear For The U.S. Market? Why a Modern Overland Van Makes Perfect Sense View the full article

The Harley-Davidson Sportster is a paradox in the custom world. Since its introduction in 1957, it has arguably become the most customized motorcycle on the planet, yet it remains one of the most challenging to get "right" as a cafe racer. To turn the American cruiser into a canyon-carving weapon re... View the full article

State Capital Raceway announced it will not open for the 2026 season. This news broke during the 2025 awards banquet. View the full article

Last week, at the Detroit Auto Show, the winners of the 2026 North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards were announced. Ahead of the ceremony, Autoblog had a chance to talk to NACTOY President Jeff Gilbert about how jurors come to their decisions. One of the questions we were most keen on asking was this: After two decades in the industry, are there any regrets you have about an award, or any times you wish you could go back and recast your vote? Gilbert didn't ponder long, saying, "You don't have to go back two decades, you only have to go back one year." The winners in 2025 were the Honda Civic Hybrid (Car of the Year), Ford Ranger (Truck of the Year), and Volkswagen ID. Buzz (Utility of the Year), and it's the latter that Gilbert reveals was a sub-par choice in retrospect. Why the 2025 NACTOY Utility Winner Was a Bust Volkswagen Some context: the Volkswagen ID. Buzz debuted in the United States in June 2023, with a presentation in Huntington Beach, California, and at the time, hype (or buzz) around the vehicle was strong. The electric minivan had been faithful to the nostalgic concept that preceded it, and its spacious interior looked like a winning ingredient for families looking to go electric with a trusted automaker. At the time, jurors praised its decent range, useful features, fun-to-drive character, and retro-futuristic design. "No vehicle in the last ten years has captured the imagination, while also bringing the past into the future, better than the Volkswagen ID. Buzz. It is an inspired Volkswagen design for the ages... again," said one juror. But with pricing in the mid-$70k region for higher trims, sales were less than stellar, and even with celebrity endorsement from Fluffy Garcia, buyers looked elsewhere. The result? Volkswagen USA announced that there would be no ID. Buzz for the 2026 model year, and Gilbert acknowledges that this makes the award seem like a bust. NACTOY President: 2025 Award Almost Went to Hyundai Volkswagen View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Gilbert explained: "If you look at North American Utility of the Year [for 2025], it was the VW ID. Buzz, which was a fun vehicle to drive, but the mere fact that, okay, Volkswagen has pulled that from the market this year... I think if jurors knew what the sales output was gonna be for the vehicle, maybe they would have decided differently. That was an extremely close vote; only a couple of points separated the ID. Buzz from the Hyundai Santa Fe, and y'know, in hindsight, if that vote was taken today, I don't know if it would have come out the same way. But hindsight is 20/20, you take your best shot." The ID. Buzz suffered from defects that earned it last place in the 2025 J.D. Power Dependability Study, so poor sales aren't the only blot on its American ledger. Related: All The EVs That Died In 2025 Gilbert also noted that a vehicle he couldn't recall "eight or nine years ago" won an award and then got "terrible" J.D. Power Dependability Study scores the following year. This is the struggle in awarding a new vehicle a prestigious honor — a juror cannot know what that vehicle is like after extended periods of ownership and use, and it's not just VW's EVs that have suffered in long-term owner surveys. The Ford Bronco and Ford Maverick were winners in 2022, and Ford achieved below-average problem rates in the following year's J.D. Power studies. Will the 2026 NACTOY Car of the Year, the Dodge Charger, be looked back on similarly to the ID. Buzz, years from now? Sales continue to be sluggish while prices rise... View the full article

The Training Wheels Come OffHyundai, together with its autonomous driving joint venture Motional, said its Ioniq 5-based fully driverless Level 4 robotaxi service in Las Vegas is targeting commercial operation by the end of this year. The move marks a clear step beyond the supervised pilot program that began earlier this year. This positions the joint venture—established in 2020—to compete more effectively in the robotaxi market against established rivals such as Waymo, which currently operates a fleet largely made up of Jaguar I-Pace EVs. Tesla is also expected to enter the segment with its two-seat Cybercab, although the trademark for the name remains on hold due to an ongoing dispute involving a prior-filed application. Hyundai Safety Before ScaleHyundai also emphasized that the Ioniq 5 robotaxi – produced at its Singapore facility – has been developed to comply with U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). According to the company, the program has undergone extensive validation, including large-scale simulations, repeated testing in controlled environments, and a carefully staged expansion onto public roads. While the Ioniq 5 may look like a compact hatchback in photos, its overall footprint is comparable to that of the Toyota RAV4. Its all-electric architecture allows for more efficient packaging – particularly of the battery system – resulting in additional usable cabin space for passengers. As with most EVs, the absence of an internal-combustion engine also contributes to a smoother and quieter ride, with significantly reduced vibration compared with combustion-powered alternatives. The Korean automaker further highlighted the joint venture’s use of an end-to-end (E2E) AI motion-planning system, which refers to a unified machine-learning framework designed to replace the traditional modular self-driving software stack. In practical terms, this approach is intended to reduce software complexity while enabling faster system updates and improved scalability as operations expand. Hyundai The Hard Part Starts NowCommenting on the technology, Motional CEO Laura Major said, “Motional does not place safety behind technological progress.” She added that the company remains focused on “accelerating our ability to scale the technology and operations in a sustainable way, from development through the commercialization stage.” Notably, the latest press release did not explicitly indicate where Hyundai and Motional plan to commercially expand their robotaxi network next. The company only hinted that “what happens in Vegas, this time, won’t stay in Vegas,” suggesting broader geographic ambitions as the program gains momentum. California could be a plausible candidate, given Motional’s prior testing footprint that includes Los Angeles. Whatever the future plans may be, the challenge will be avoiding the kind of setbacks that led to the collapse of General Motors’ Cruise program. Hyundai View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The chase for the Elite Motorsports Million is officially on. With a commanding victory at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, the opening race of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, Jason Harris became the lone driver still eligible for the million-dollar bonus offered by Elite Motorsports to any racer capable of sweeping all three Winter Series events. The Elite Motorsports Million, announced prior to the 2025-26 DI Winter Series held at Bradenton Motorsports Park, awards a $1,000,000 prize to any driver who can accomplish the nearly unthinkable feat of winning all three races against one of the deepest and most competitive fields in professional drag racing. Following Harris’ dominant performance at the series-opening Snowbirds, Elite Motorsports owner Richard Freeman acknowledged both the magnitude of the achievement so far – and the mountain still ahead. “Anything is possible,” Freeman said. “It’s not going to be easy, and it might not be pretty either. I think there has to be some luck involved, but we’ve seen some remarkable things in drag racing. Winning the Elite Million, winning these three races, that would be at the top of the list. I’d ultimately like to see someone do it.” Harris now heads into the final two races with the full weight of the field squarely focused on stopping him. With roughly 80 of the best Pro Mod teams in the country still in contention to play spoiler, Freeman believes the pressure has unmistakably shifted. “I think the pressure ramps up for sure, at least for Jason,” said Freeman. “For the rest of the field, the pressure is kind of off. There’s nothing extra on the line if they win, except the bragging rights. Everyone now has two chances – two races left – to block him from winning the Elite Million.” As history has proven throughout the Winter Series, nothing is guaranteed – even for the favorites. Anyone that gets into the 32-car field is more than capable of winning: from Jason Harris winning the Snowbirds from the No. 1 qualifying position, to Spencer Hyde taking the 2023 World Series of Pro Mod title from the No. 32 spot. “You’ve got the best of the best out here racing,” Freeman said. “There’s a whole list of drivers who are capable of preventing Jason from winning the Elite Million. It’s the driver, it’s the team, it’s the car, it’s the track. All are huge factors, and they don’t always all come together every run. It’s so tight. Spencer Hyde won from the last qualifying spot one year. It goes to show you it’s anybody’s game.” Freeman also admits that while part of him hopes Harris can pull it off, another part hopes one of his two Elite Motorsports cars – driven by Aaron Stanfield and six-time NHRA Pro Stock champion Erica Enders – can be the one that plays spoiler to Harris walking away with all the biggest cash prize in Pro Mod history. “I hope we can knock him off,” said Freeman. “He’s got to be perfect and probably hope that other people make some mistakes.” With two races remaining in this year’s Winter Series – the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission January 22-25, and the World Series of Pro Mod February 26-28 – the Elite Motorsports Million storyline now becomes one of its defining narratives. Whether Harris can finish what he started remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the road to a million dollars has never been more intense. Tickets for the U.S. Street Nationals and World Series of Pro Mod are on sale now. Visit www.TheWinterSeries.com/tickets to purchase tickets. This story was originally published on January 19, 2026. The post Richard Freeman Weighs In On Elite Motorsports Million Ahead of U.S. Street Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Record Prices and Stretching CreditThe average price Americans are paying for a new car has climbed to unprecedented levels. According to a Kelley Blue Book (KBB) report, the average transaction price for a new vehicle topped $50,000 for the first time ever, driven by a mix of high-end trucks, luxury vehicles, and electric models, with more than 60 models selling above $75,000 and EVs averaging over $58,000. This record price point isn’t just a luxury-segment story: even mainstream models are being pulled upward by broad pricing shifts in the industry. To cope with these rising prices, buyers are increasingly turning to longer, riskier auto loans. Industry data shows a growing share of new-car buyers signing contracts with terms of 72 to 84 months or more and monthly payments exceeding $1,000, a historic high that reflects stretched affordability. While wealthier purchasers are plentiful, many middle-income households are only able to access new cars through extended financing, effectively propping up prices that would otherwise be out of reach. Luxury Demand Masks a Broader SqueezeThe new-car market’s headline strength has been the sustained demand at the top end of the price spectrum. Reports tracking broader industry trends show that luxury car sales are surging even as middle-class buyers fall back to more entry-level variants of already expensive models. This bifurcation suggests that a growing portion of new vehicles sold are going to higher-income households, while value-oriented purchases stagnate. Even with tariffs, interest cost headwinds, and other market pressures, luxury segments, including well-appointed SUVs and electrified premium models, remain resilient and often command discipline in dealer inventories. For new-car sellers, these affluent buyers help keep average transaction prices elevated. In an interview with USA Today, Luxury dealer Nelson Andrews says high-end buyers are still spending, underscoring the widening gap over who can afford record vehicle prices. “We’re going to have our best year ever this year,” said Andrews, whose Middle Tennessee dealerships are on track for a milestone year. Kristen Brown The Real Cost of AffordabilityFor the middle class, the intersection of high prices and stretched loans is a potent affordability challenge. Rather than declining, auto debt burdens are rising: recent analyses show significant increases in loan terms and the share of buyers committing to four-figure monthly payments. These conditions risk making new vehicles a luxury good for many households rather than a practical necessity. Without a meaningful supply of lower-priced models and with financing tilted toward longer terms, middle-income buyers are increasingly squeezed out, forced to choose used cars, delay purchases, or remain in older vehicles longer. In effect, what appears on the surface to be a healthy auto market may be sustained not by broad affordability but by credit-driven demand and segmented consumer spending patterns. Nissan View the full article

Paul Lee Racing is proud to announce that veteran tuner Jon Schaffer has been named Crew Chief for the team’s Nitro Funny Car entry in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Schaffer will lead the team alongside longtime consultant John Medlen and Assistant Crew Chief Seth Randall, forming a highly experienced and collaborative performance group for the upcoming season. Schaffer brings years of top-level nitro Funny Car experience to the team and will play a key role in continuing the momentum built during a standout 2025 campaign. Lee finished the season sixth in the NHRA Funny Car points standings, marking a career-best result, and captured his first career Funny Car victory at the Phoenix NHRA event. “We’re building on something special from last year,” says Paul Lee, team owner and driver. “The momentum we created in 2025 gives us a strong foundation, and bringing Jon Schaffer on board is a fresh start that raises the bar for our entire program. Jon’s talent, experience, and approach fit perfectly with what John Medlen, Seth Randall, and our team are building. I’m excited about where this can take us.” Schaffer is equally enthusiastic about the opportunity and the direction of the team. “This team proved last season that they belong at the top level of Funny Car competition,” said Jon Schaffer. “Paul’s win in Phoenix and the sixth-place points finish show what this group is capable of. I’m excited to work with John Medlen and Seth Randall and help build on that momentum. There’s a lot of potential here, and I’m looking forward to contributing my experience to help this team keep moving forward.” Longtime Paul Lee Racing crew member Seth Randall steps into the role of Assistant Crew Chief, continuing his progression within the organization and adding continuity to the team’s leadership structure. “I’m more than ready for the season to get started,” said Seth Randall. “We worked extremely hard in 2025 to build momentum, and it’s exciting to be able to continue that with this group. Being able to work alongside John Medlen and Jon Schaffer is a great opportunity, and I’m proud to step into the assistant crew chief role and help keep pushing this team forward.” Lee and the team continue to have support from their loyal partners McLeod, FTI Performance, Silver Sport Transmissions, Competition Clutch, Independence Driveline, Mainline Sales, PowerEdge, DENSO, Red Line Oil, Gates, Lincoln Electric, Justice Brothers, SRI, Daido Metal, Advanced Sleeves, Cometic Gaskets, Fischer Honda, IGTG, Seefried Ranch, Boninfante, OptiTorque, Riken Rings, ShurTape, ProThings, Goodyear, and Sam & Kris Maus. This story was originally published on January 19, 2026. The post Jon Schaffer Named Crew Chief For Paul Lee’s NHRA Funny Car Team first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Mitsubishi’s EV PlansLast year, Mitsubishi said its electric comeback would lean on Nissan, so most people expected future EVs to share Alliance hardware. That still looks likely for North America, but things are playing out differently in Australia. Mitsubishi’s first new EV for the Land Down Under in 15 years reportedly won’t use Nissan tech. Instead, it’s based on a model from Foxtron, the car division of Foxconn. Foxconn, the company that assembles iPhones, just launched the Bria EV in Taiwan. That’s the car Mitsubishi is expected to use as the base for its new electric hatchback in Australia, according to Drive. What’s not clear is if this Foxtron-based EV is also headed for North America, or if we’ll get something different. It looks like Mitsubishi is shaping its EV plans to fit each market, depending on what makes sense for cost, rules, and timing. Foxtron Hot-Hatch PowerIf Mitsubishi keeps most of the Bria’s hardware, the specs are promising. Base models get a single rear motor with about 229 horsepower, good for a claimed 0-62 mph in 6.8 seconds. That’s already quicker than a lot of mainstream compact EVs. The real attention-grabber is the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version. With about 400 horsepower, it’s said to do 0-62 mph in just 3.9 seconds, which puts it right in hot-hatch territory. Every version uses a 57.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. Foxtron claims up to 321 miles of range on the generous NEDC cycle for rear-drive models, but expect more like 260 to 270 miles by EPA standards. All-wheel-drive versions will likely get a bit less. DC fast charging tops out at 134 kW, so you can go from 10 to 80 percent in about half an hour. The car is heavy for its class, at around 4,450 pounds, so getting the suspension and steering right will matter even more. Anadolu/Getty Images Which Mitsubishi EV Will America Get?The Bria looks a lot like Foxtron’s Model B concept, with clean lines, full-width lights, flush door handles, and aero details. Pininfarina did the styling, but Mitsubishi could add its own design cues; it’s not clear how much will change. Australia will reportedly see this EV in the second half of 2026. For the US and Canada, things are still up in the air. Mitsubishi hasn’t said if this Foxtron-based model is coming here, or if we’ll get a Nissan-based EV instead. Right now, the Bria-based car looks like just one piece of a bigger, still-changing EV plan. Nissan View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Even the Tough Ones Have a Breaking PointThe LS-based L96 small-block V8 is deemed a tank for its iron block and conservative tune, traits that typically favor reliability over outright performance. That’s what made this particular L96 example featured on I Do Cars so interesting, as it failed violently and unexpectedly, raising questions about what actually went wrong. General Motors introduced this 6.0-liter V8 around 2010 for full-size vehicles such as the GMC Yukon XL and Chevrolet Suburban 2500. According to the mechanic, the engine – destined for teardown – was likely pulled from a Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra 2500/3500. Specific details like mileage or service history were unknown, which is entirely expected given that the engine was purchased for just $50. The Damage Speaks for ItselfRight off the bat, a hole in the engine block was visible, indicating a catastrophic internal failure – especially considering the L96’s iron block is far more durable than aluminum. Parts in the cylinder head showed only minor, scattered damage, nothing particularly severe. The real disaster, however, was in the cylinder block itself, where two cylinders on each bank of the V8 were missing their pistons entirely. Interestingly, a wrist pin – known for its strength – had shattered into four pieces, underscoring just how severe the internal impact must have been. The mechanic noted that one of the broken wrist-pin fragments likely locked up the crankshaft, which may have helped prevent even greater damage. But the fact that this component, which connects the rod to the piston, had already failed indicates the engine was effectively beyond repair at that point. I Do Cars on YouTube Where Things Took a TurnTypically, a blown engine results from hydrolock, oil starvation, or overheating, yet none showed clear signs during the teardown. As a result, the mechanic concluded that the owner likely ignored early warning signs of failure, which ultimately led to the blowout. Other contributing factors – including the use of cheap parts, “shoddy” repair work, and improper torque specifications – only worsened the situation. On the bright side, this teardown didn't implicate an inherent engine design flaw. At the time, the L96 went head-to-head with heavyweight rivals such as Ford’s 6.2-liter Boss V8 and Chrysler’s 6.4-liter Hemi – the latter being the most performance-oriented of the group and even finding use in the Dodge Challenger. GM’s small-block V8 was later succeeded by the L8T, which increased displacement to 6.6 liters and raised output from 360 horsepower to 401 horsepower. Chevrolet View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

At 29 years old, Johnny “Lil JT” Thompson Jr. is living two racing careers at once. He’s the driver of the “Lil Fugitive” ’04 Mustang Cobra, a nitrous-fed, small-block-powered no-time car, and he’s the crew chief and tuner for the “Big Fugitive” Pro Mod driven by his father, longtime Mississippi racer JT Thompson. Together, the father-and-son team has become one of the most respected duos in Southern no-time and Pro Mod competition. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Raised in Terry, Mississippi, Johnny learned the sport by living it. He spent weekends watching his father race a nitrous big-block Camaro long before he was old enough to reach the pedals. “When I say I was brought up around it, that’s all I know,” he says. His first chance to step into his own came with the Mustang he now races. At his very first event behind the wheel, he took the car to the semifinals of a 34-car field. That early success turned into a pattern: multiple wins, late-round finishes, and a growing reputation for cutting lights that rattle even seasoned racers. “I’ve always been able to chop the tree down,” Thompson says. It’s an ability proven by runner-up and semifinal finishes at marquee practice-tree shootouts, including a $7,000-to-win shootout at the PRI Show defeating hitters like past 30 Under 30 honorees Lyle Barnett, Marques Hatton, Kyla Hubbard, and Evan Salemi. Thompson’s growth as a driver has paralleled his evolution as a tuner. Working with his father and uncle, Thompson learned how to coax more performance out of the team’s nitrous-assisted “Big Fugitive” ’68 Camaro, which was just recently upgraded to a Buck 959-cubic-inch engine. “I take care of all the tuning,” he says. “My dad trusts me 100%.” Thompson’s learning curve was steep. He studied data logs, leaned on mentors, and spent late nights staring at the computer. His efforts have paid off, though. The team has earned top-three points finishes in the SNRA in three of the last four seasons, and the elder Thompson has turned in career-best numbers 3.91 at 193 mph. “That’s with a Pro Mod that weighed 2,600 pounds, an 855-cubic-inch motor with carburetors, and no lockup transmission. “It’s a different level of pride when my dad gets out smiling,” Thompson adds. “That’s better than anything I’ve done in my own car.” What separates Thompson from most racers his age is what he carries with him every time he straps in. Born with Aortic Coarctation, a congenital heart defect, he has endured surgeries and long childhood hospital stays. Those challenges shaped both his racing mentality and his career. He now works as a cardiac technologist, helping patients whose stories mirror his own. “I let them know what I’ve been through,” he says. “If I can do it, they can do it. It’s all about mindset.” Racing, then, is more than a hobby. It’s proof – for himself and others – that obstacles don’t define outcomes. “I was so sick at one point that the doctors told my folks to call in the family and to make a decision,” Thompson says. “One year, I think I missed 74 days of school. I couldn’t play football, basketball, soccer – none of that. All I had was drag racing. So throughout all the doubters and everything, I’m just grateful that I am able to race, and that’s why I take it so serious.” Thompson embraces his role as a mentor and motivator, both in-person and online. Through Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, he shares racing updates, motivational content, and showcases other racers. “I like to encourage people,” he says. “I love talking with fans, signing autographs, doing pictures, giving out shirts. It’s bigger than me.” Thompson and his team participate in community events, from local parades to charity car shows and school outreach programs. He sees it as part of his responsibility to represent the Mississippi racing community with pride and to give back to the people who support him. Speaking of the people who support him, Thompson gets emotional when he lists off everyone who’s played a part in his racing journey, starting with his parents. “I wouldn’t be here without my family, my friends, and my teammates,” Thompson says, also thanking Michael Poland of Nitrous Express. “If it wasn’t for that support, I probably wouldn’t be racing today.” Thompson, who also shouted out past 30 Under 30 honorees like Mieshael Henry, represents so much of what makes a standout 30 Under 30 candidate. He’s a reminder of what keeps drag racing thriving: generational legacy, resilience, humility, and the desire to lift others along the way. “At the end of the day, it’s about being better every pass – as a driver, a tuner, and a person,” Thompson says. “I want to make a difference. If I can inspire even one person, that’s a win.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Johnny Thompson Jr. first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

With three decades of racing heritage, this 1988 Mustang GT has evolved again with a new twin-turbo Coyote powerplant. View the full article

Lifestyle Trucks That Can HaulPickups are supposed to be able to haul almost anything, from people to cattle to building equipment, and much more. There is room for a lifestyle side, though, such as the reemergence of street trucks among Detroit's Big Three. But beyond the low-slung haulers, we've also seen several interesting truck-based builds out there, because no matter what, pickups, in various shapes and forms, will always be cool. None is cooler than a recent conversion kit introduced for the Ford Super Duty. Say Hello to "Shorty"Truman Motors is a small firm based in California, and its bread and butter are conversion kits for the Ford Super Duty trucks. It currently has two kits for sale. "The Signature" is the definition of an all-rounder based on a 4-door F-450. We're focusing, though, on the latest offering, the cutely named "Shorty." The Shorty uses the same form as the Signature; both are based on the F-450, but the Shorty uses the single-cab 2-door body. Truman dubs the Shorty as more of a weekend warrior, alluding to the lack of passenger space compared to the Signature. The Shorty, at first glance, is a clean build but has an imposing stance thanks to the massive 44-inch tires, which raised the ride height by two inches. The vision behind the build was to create a true California truck with a Surfboard rack as one of the main highlights. The main highlight and the source of the name is that the truck's overall wheelbase has been shortened to just 122 inches from the original 145 inches. Truman then had to find someone who could give them an OEM specification short bed, which was crucial to achieving the build. Truman also wanted to retain the Super Duty truck's true essence while improving its off-road capabilities. To achieve this, it used Fox HD shocks that improve ride quality. Rounding out the updates are the Baja design lightbars, new steel front and rear bumpers, and two winches that can pull up to 16,500 pounds. Powering this beast is an equally beastly 7.3-liter V8 aptly named the "Godzilla." Make your Short Bed Dreams Come TrueTruman's impressive Shorty build is for sale to the general public; those who want their own can pay the $175,000 price that includes the truck itself. It Hope to be able to finish purchased builds within a timeframe of 12-16 weeks. What makes the Shorty cool is that it looks the part without being unnecessary. We're so used to seeing pickup builds that cater to a more hardcore crowd; this is geared towards those who want usability and uniqueness. View the full article

LS2’s Rapid III delivers big safety and sporty looks for small money, making it one of the best value helmets today. View the full article

A V12 in an EV WorldRolls-Royce is in an interesting position right now. The all-electric Spectre is already on the road, with a second EV in the pipeline, but early demand hasn’t quite matched expectations. That’s worth noting, since Rolls-Royce has publicly committed to going fully electric by 2030. Still, electrification hasn’t shut the door on combustion just yet. According to Autocar, BMW – Rolls-Royce’s parent company – has confirmed that its current V12 can be updated to meet upcoming Euro 7 emissions standards, which are set to take effect for new passenger cars from this year onward. That means Rolls-Royce won’t face regulatory pressure to immediately retire its most iconic engine, even as its public-facing strategy continues to lean electric. Rolls-Royce How BMW Is Keeping Big Engines AliveBMW’s confidence comes from planning ahead. According to Dr. Joachim Post, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG in charge of the development of future BMWs, the automaker’s Euro 7 compliance won’t need a full engine redesign. Instead, BMW is focusing on exhaust tweaks – mainly new catalytic converters and updated emissions hardware. BMW has been updating its engines with stricter rules in mind, so meeting Euro 7 doesn’t require a huge investment. This benefits Rolls-Royce, but also means BMW’s next models will still offer four-, six-, eight-, and twelve-cylinder options, all ready for the new standards. This shared approach covers everything from BMW M cars to big sedans, SUVs, and even Rolls-Royce’s low-volume models. For now, BMW sees combustion engines running alongside EVs, not being pushed out entirely. And thanks to that, combustion is very much alive for Rolls-Royce, as it is for BMW’s own models. BMW Europe’s Rules Are Now SofterThis strategy fits with Europe’s shifting rules. The EU still plans to ban new pure gasoline and diesel cars after 2035, but recent changes allow combustion engines that run on carbon-neutral or synthetic fuels. This key detail gives brands like BMW and Rolls-Royce more breathing room, especially in low-volume luxury segments where buyers aren’t always clamoring for EVs. For Rolls-Royce, it means the V12 can stick around without running afoul of the new rules – at least on paper. The bottom line: the move to EVs isn’t as straightforward as it once seemed. For established luxury brands, this extra window could be just enough to keep engines like the V12 alive a little longer. Rolls-Royce View the full article

The 4xe DramaHold up, weren't 4xe models quietly removed from the Jeep website not so long ago? Why, yes, and it also means you can't order a Wrangler or Grand Cherokee with a plug-in hybrid powertrain anymore. It's unknown whether those models will ever come back, effectively putting the future of Jeep's hybrid models in limbo. The reason? In case you missed it, the 4xe models have had their fair share of issues in the past couple of months. A fire risk warning was issued in November, and in the same month, engine casting debris was causing the engines to detonate. That's left owners with cars they can't charge and with engines that could let go without much warning. It's Not Going Away, ApparentlySo, are 4xe models gone for good? As it turns out, not at all. During the North American International Auto Show, Jeep displayed a new 4xe vehicle during the show. We say displayed as Mopar Insiders mentioned that it was just sitting there with no fanfare surrounding its debut. The model launched? The Grand Wagoneer 4xe. It was a blink or you'll miss it reveal, and the only identifying markers were subtle badges and a charging flap on the fender. Interestingly, there's no mention of the new model on Jeep's website or even a press release from Stellantis. One would think the company would be a little proud of a new model launch. The ongoing recall drama is a factor, perhaps? The NumbersIssues aside, what numbers does this electrified Grand Wagoneer pack? For starters, it comes with a whopping 92 kWh battery pack that's even bigger than a lot of EVs. It's worlds apart from the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler 4xe that 'only' came with a 17.3 kWh pack. The reason for the massive battery is that the Grand Wagoneer 4xe isn't entirely a plug-in hybrid. Instead, this full-size SUV is an REEV or range-extended electric vehicle. There's still an engine on board, but its sole purpose is to serve as a generator for its battery that then powers the motors. It's similar to Nissan's e-Power technology, albeit supersized in this application. The batteries get their charge from the familiar 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. Horsepower and torque figures weren't given for it, but it's largely irrelevant at this point as it doesn't drive the SUV at all. Instead, it's the two electric motors that are responsible for that, and it has a combined output of 647 hp and 620 lb-ft of torque. If those figures look familiar, that's because it's close to the arrangement used in the upcoming (and repeatedly delayed) Ram 1500 REV. With that, it's safe to say that the Grand Wagoneer 4xe is the SUV version of the Ram 1500 REV. When Is It Coming to Showrooms?Sadly, we can't answer that yet. There is no official word from Jeep on when order books will open for it, and the same goes for pricing and trim selections. It's possible that it could reach showrooms around the same time as the Ram 1500 REV, although that model still doesn't have a definitive availability date, either. That said, it's likely to be more expensive than the standard gas-fed Grand Wagoneer. For reference, Jeep's flagship SUV ranges from $63,230, all the way to $100,085. That means the 4xe won't be exactly within reach for many, but it should be an interesting addition to the lineup. Jeep View the full article

For 2026, Harley-Davidson has introduced three new models to the CVO family and added some welcome performance upgrades to the existing CVO bikes.View the full article

PWC sales are still growing post-pandemic, while boat sales are down in 2025 when compared to 2024. Socioeconomic uncertainty and dynamic product ranges might be the reason.View the full article