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Here comes Stage 11! How will it compare to the previous 10? Speed was key in Stage 10 because slowing down in the soft stuff will make a really tough stage even tougher. It may be getting closer and closer to the end of the 2026 Dakar Rally, but there is still a lot to go for these racers. The bike guys are particularly tough and crazy, but everyone has to earn it whether on two or four wheels. We’ve been sharing every day’s coverage from the 2026 Dakar Rally and today is no different. Watch the video to see all the Stage 6 action, highlights, and more below! Bodies and vehicles are being put to the test and the carnage and emotions are real! This tough and technical stage was toughernastier than many expected. Dakar Rally 2026 is on! The worlds longest, toughest, and most infamous off-road race has started and we couldn’t be more excited! Famous racers and teams, well known for their prowess in the sand and on Dakar in general, have already been struggling which is just more proof of how gnarly this race really is. There are a lot of new cars and new teams mixed in with proven cars and older teams, but it’s the little things that matter at Dakar. If you don’t take care of your equipment, and keep your teams and people healthy, then you’ll never finish and if you don’t finish you can’t win. This race goes all over Saudi Arabia and will subject drivers and riders to all kinds of sand terrain and more. But the sand is what swallows teams. It’s the most fierce of the challenges. Will 2026 prove to be even tougher than last year? Would you run at Dakar if given the chance? Let us know in the comments section below. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED ANY OF THE COVERAGE FROM PREVIOUS STAGES! The post Dakar Rally 2026 Coverage: Stage 11 Racing Action! Dakar Rally 2026 Is Nearly Complete! Will The Dunes Be Conquered? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Nissan is giving buyers in China another reason to look at its new N6 midsize sedan, by adding a fresh interior color scheme that normally costs extra but is temporarily free. The update comes from Nissan’s official site as shared by Autohome, and it is positioned as a quick way to refresh the cabin without changing the rest of the package. Autohome What Changes Inside And What You GetThe new interior theme is priced at 7,000 yuan and is free for a limited time, and it appears across the steering wheel, center console, door trim panels, and seats. The official images focus on color and texture detailing, and the report notes the rest of the styling and equipment remains consistent with the existing model range. There are also five configurations, with list pricing translated as roughly 99,900 to 129,000 yuan, plus limited time pricing translated as roughly 91,900 to 129,000 yuan, with the exact figures best treated as provisional because the English translation is inconsistent. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Tech And Driver Assistance DetailsThere is a 15.6 inch 2.5K floating central screen, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8775 chip, and a Nissan OS interface that supports a flat panel style layout. The report also adds that the system integrates large model software branded around Xinghuo from the University of Science and Technology of China plus DeepSeek, along with a deeply customized Gaode navigation experience. On the safety side, the lower trims use five cameras and three millimeter wave radars for L2 assistance, while top trims add seven cameras, one in cabin camera, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and three millimeter wave radars, enabling highway navigation assistance, urban memory navigation assistance, and full scene parking assistance. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Design And Powertrain ContextThe N6 is described as using Nissan’s latest V motion family design, with a full width front light signature and a full width rear lamp, plus an illuminated Nissan badge. Autohome lists dimensions of 190.2 inches long, 74.2 inches wide, and 58.8 inches tall, with a 110.8 inch wheelbase. The report also describes a plug in hybrid system with a 1.5 liter engine and a single speed DHT, a 208 hp electric motor with about 236 lb ft of torque, a 21.1 kWh battery, and a CLTC electric range claim of 111.8 miles, plus a 30 to 80 percent charge time of 17 minutes. The positioning fits the broader push Nissan is making with electrified sedans, while US buyers are still being pulled toward monthly payment clarity through offers like the Nissan Leaf lease deals and Nissan Roguelease deals. View the full article

Tesla has always branded itself as the rule-breaker of the auto industry. From how its cars are engineered to how they’re sold, Elon Musk’s company built its identity on doing things differently, especially by pushing customers toward an online-only buying model. But different isn't always better. In Japan, under the leadership of Richi Hashimoto, Tesla rewrote that strategy. And the results have been impossible to ignore. After years of slow growth and its fast-rising rival, BYD, outselling them, Tesla’s sales finally took off once it embraced what the industry has relied on for decades: real people, real showrooms, and real customer service. From Digital-First to Face-to-Face X @partitioncharge For years, Tesla’s presence in Japan barely moved the needle. Sales hovered around 5,000 units annually despite the brand’s global reputation. That changed in late 2024 when Tesla began opening physical showrooms inside busy shopping malls and expanding its retail footprint. Instead of waiting for customers to stumble across the brand online, Tesla put itself directly in front of shoppers, just like every traditional automaker. In fact, other brands are reviving relationship-driven sales tactics, similar to those defined in the 1990s, focusing on trust, familiarity, and long-term loyalty rather than one-click transactions. Why Service, Not Software, Made The Difference Tesla On top of introducing physical locations with real people, Tesla also overhauled its approach to staff training. The carmaker turned showroom employees into product specialists who could confidently guide buyers through everything from charging and range anxiety to real-world ownership costs. That human connection paid off fast. In 2025, Tesla’s sales in Japan jumped nearly 90% to more than 10,000 vehicles. Building trust and relationships is crucial for Tesla, especially since its reputation has taken a few hits, from yet another lawsuit over Model S door handle failures. A Wake-Up Call For Tesla in The US Tesla In the United States, Tesla’s market share has slipped as competition intensifies, new entrants arrive, and rivals continue their global expansion. Online car buying is a tried-and-tested tactic, there's no doubt about it, but without the backing of physical dealerships, it risks alienating a huge portion of potential customers. Tesla’s success in Japan proves that innovation does not always mean reinventing the wheel. Sometimes, the smartest move is going back to basics and realizing that trust is built in conversations, not just clicks. View the full article

When BMW Motorrad unveiled the R18 in 2020, it wasn't just launching a motorcycle; it was reclaiming a piece of its soul. Designed as a direct challenge to the American cruiser hegemony, the R18 is a paradoxical machine—a modern vessel that feels like a pre-war relic. At its heart lies the "Big Boxe... View the full article

Dale Earnhardt Jr. was one of those present for NASCAR's announcement earlier in the month, revealing the return of The Chase and more emphasis put on points-racing. He was a big fan of the changes, which those within the sport say adds legitimacy to the championship, even if the NASCAR Hall of Famer still prefers a full, 36-race format. He confirmed that in a recent episode of the Dale Jr ...Keep readingView the full article

Porsche has just released its sales results for 2025, and while the United States saw another year of record sales for the automaker, other major regions saw a decline. Globally, Porsche sales dropped by a disappointing 10%, but in the U.S., Porsche sold 52 vehicles more than in 2024—a new record by the narrowest of margins. Locally and worldwide, the Macan was the manufacturer’s best-selling model, while the 911 set another delivery record globally. Here’s a closer look at the numbers. Strongest U.S. Performance Ever Porsche With 76,219 vehicles sold in the United States, it was Porsche’s best year here ever, although the company only just squeaked past 2024’s sales. The Macan led the way with 27,139 units sold (including the electric version), while the Cayenne took the runner-up spot with 20,314 units. These were followed by the 911 (13,574), 718 (6,399), Panamera (4,651), and Taycan (4,142). The 911 enjoyed its best December sales ever. "Driven by the loyalty and enthusiasm of our customers for the incredible cars we offer, we have achieved stability and even growth to set a new record in a market that experienced profound change in 2025,” said Timo Resch, President and CEO of PCNA. Resch was no doubt referencing the impact of tariffs on manufacturers like Porsche in 2025, with the brand being forced to implement multiple price hikes during the year. Related: Porsche 911’s Crazy Price Hikes Make Corvette and AMG Rivals Hard to Ignore A Less Rosy Picture Globally Porsche While U.S. sales were steady, Porsche sold 31,269 fewer vehicles globally last year. The biggest loser in percentage terms was in China, where Porsche sales dropped by 26%. Sales in Germany dropped by 16%, while Europe (excluding Germany) saw a decline of 13%. Porsche had been on a record run globally for a couple of years, so the 10% decline last year marked a big change in fortunes for the brand. Globally, the Macan was also Porsche’s best-selling model, with 84,328 units sold, and over half of these (45,367) were for the electric Macan. The 911 held firm with 51,583 deliveries, up by 1%, but the 718 declined by 21% as that model line was phased out. Taycan and Cayenne sales both went down by over 20%. Porsche “After several record years, our deliveries in 2025 were below the previous year’s level. This development is in line with our expectations and is due to supply gaps for the 718 and Macan combustion-engined models, the continuing weaker demand for exclusive products in China, and our value-oriented supply management,” says Matthias Becker, Member of the Executive Board for Sales and Marketing at Porsche AG. Trouble was brewing for Porsche back in July already, when the company had already downgraded its profit forecasts for 2025. At the time, then-CEO Oliver Blume delivered a sobering message to Porsche employees, saying its business model “no longer works in its current form”. Related: Porsche Admits Trouble Ahead: “Our Business Model No Longer Works” Where To From Here For Porsche? Porsche Cooling EV demand and a significant decline in the key Chinese market are major issues that Michael Leiters, Porsche’s new CEO, will need to address over the next few months. The company is already back-tracking on some of its electrification plans. The new 718 generation was meant to be electric-only, but due to slower demand for EVs, Porsche is now re-engineering the sports car’s platform to accommodate gas power, too. We expect the automaker to electrify remaining models with more caution, based on current market conditions. In the meantime, Porsche fans in the U.S. will have to live with high price hikes, as we saw a few days ago with the 911—the base version of the sports car is pushing $140,000, making it far more expensive than more powerful rivals. View the full article

Genesis is no stranger to exciting concepts, prototypes, and one-offs — just look at the Magma GT mid-engine supercar or the G90 Magma Wingback wagon. As for production cars, there’s the new 641-hp GV60 Magma. Now, fresh spy shots taken by Shorts Car of what appears to be a Genesis GV70 test mule with a stretched wheelbase have surfaced. But we have a feeling it's more than just an elongated GV70. Once you look closer, you'll see the C-pillar appears subtly redesigned, and of course, it's riding on a set of peculiar wheels. We believe this could be Genesis testing the production version of the X Gran Equator Concept — cleverly disguised as a GV70 to throw off the scent. The Possibility of a Stretched GV70 Instagram @shorts_car The current GV70 hits a rare balance between sporty proportions and everyday usability. Adding length would naturally tilt it toward comfort and practicality, but this might create competition within the Genesis lineup itself, having the GV70 stepping on the toes of the GV80, its mid-size sibling. The possibility of it becoming a Chinese-exclusive, like the Tesla Model Y L, is still on the table. That said, a longer wheelbase is not only about legroom. It can also be about packaging. As everyone continues to push deeper into electrification, extra space could allow for larger battery packs, giving its electric variant, the Genesis Electrified GV70, or upcoming hybrid and EREV versions more range and maybe even more power. The Wheels That Change The Narrative Instagram @shorts_car While some claim this elongated prototype rolls on Kia wheels, we believe they're identical to those from the Hyundai Kona EV. That small detail still tells a big story. Using sister-brand components is a classic development tactic, allowing engineers to test new hardware discreetly and efficiently. It also reinforces the idea that this mule may not represent a GV70 at all, but something entirely new wearing familiar clothes. So, chances of a new Hyundai or Kia are high, especially considering their impressive growth in the US. Using a Genesis as a test platform is the perfect way to hide in plain sight. What This Test Mule Really Tells UsSpeculation aside, this prototype tells us that there's a new car coming from the Korean umbrella brand. It'll share the same ethos as the Genesis GV70, but come in a slightly longer package. Genesis itself has been giving us some pretty special cars recently, like the refreshed G80 and one-off GV80 Black. Whether this new model will be a gas-powered, hybrid-assisted, or all-electric model remains to be seen, but the Hyundai Motor Group is working on something pretty special, and for now, it's disguised as a GV70. View the full article

When Ford designed the modern Bronco, it digitally scanned the classic 1976 model’s design as a reference point, as the company wanted to capture the original’s enduring appeal for a new generation. But for some, nothing but the original, old-school look will do, and that includes actor Kevin Hart. He purchased a 2024 Bronco, but soon had it redesigned to mirror the look of the Bronco from the 1960s and early 1970s. If classic looks and advanced underpinnings sound like the perfect combination to you, Hart’s retro Bronco is going up for auction at no reserve at Scottsdale 2026. Related: Jeep Slashes Wrangler Prices as Ford’s Bronco Gains Ground The Best Of Two Bronco Generations Custom 2024 Ford Bronco Barrett-Jackson View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Hart worked with builder Vintage Modern to create his custom 2024 Bronco. Finished in Triple Black with matte black trim, it successfully mimics the original’s round headlights, simple horizontal grille, and boxy lines. The front and side orange indicators are virtually identical to the ones on the first-generation model, as are the narrow, vertical taillights. This Bronco has a removable soft-top roof and rides on BFGoodrich all-terrain tires. It has a Roush intake and exhaust and a Fox Factory Racing suspension. While it looks just like the first-generation model that relied on naturally-aspirated six- and eight-cylinder engines—and three-speed manual or automatic transmissions—this Bronco has a far more advanced powertrain. It uses the 2.7-liter EcoBoost turbocharged V6 engine, rated for 330 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. That’s paired to a ten-speed automatic transmission. Side-impact beams, six airbags, and all the other modern safety equipment lacking on the original Bronco has been retained for this 2024 model. Related: Ford Just Turned Vaughn Gittin Jr.’s Bronco Mods Into a Factory Model All-Black Cabin Doesn’t Go Back In Time Custom 2024 Ford Bronco Barrett-Jackson View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Head inside, and there’s no doubt that this is a modern Bronco. Modern amenities like a digital driver’s display and a center touchscreen are still in place. But Vintage Modern and Hart didn’t leave the interior untouched. It has the same all-black look as the exterior, but there’s hand-stitched leather everywhere you look. The “Vintage” script has also been applied to the center console and steering wheel. As mentioned, this special, one-of-one Bronco is up for sale at no reserve. It has been listed by Barrett-Jackson and will be one of the highlights at the Scottsdale 2026 auction, which runs from 17 to 25 January. Given its celebrity status and old-school looks, Hart’s Bronco could sell for a lot more than the roughly $54k it’ll cost you to get a new Bronco Outer Banks with the same powertrain. View the full article

The Polestar 3 has been named the safest Executive Car of 2025 by Euro NCAP, giving the electric SUV one of the strongest endorsements available in the European market. The award places Polestar’s flagship model at the top of its class for overall safety performance, based on a combination of crash protection and advanced driver assistance systems at a time when buyer confidence matters more than ever. Euro NCAP’s Best in Class awards compare vehicles tested throughout the year and recognize those with the strongest combined results across adult occupant protection, child safety, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assist technology. In that context, the Polestar 3 did not simply meet expectations for a premium EV, it set the benchmark for the executive segment. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Why Euro NCAP Rated It So HighlyThe Polestar 3 earned a five star Euro NCAP rating in earlier testing, with standout scores for adult and child occupant protection. Euro NCAP highlighted how close the vehicle came to a perfect child safety result, pointing to its cabin structure, restraint systems, and collision mitigation technology. Active safety also played a major role, with autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assistance, driver monitoring, and comprehensive crash avoidance systems helped push the Polestar 3 ahead of its rivals. Euro NCAP’s scoring increasingly rewards vehicles that can prevent collisions altogether, not just manage the aftermath, an area where modern EV platforms tend to perform strongly. Safety Meets Market RealityThis recognition arrives at a critical point for Polestar as a business. The company has been working to stabilise its financial footing, including a recent funding boost, while also trying to expand its appeal beyond early adopters. Pricing has also become part of that broader reset, as a recent adjustment saw the Polestar 3 receive a major reduction, reshaping how buyers may view its value proposition. Strong safety credentials help reinforce confidence as the brand asks a wider audience to take notice. The Bigger Picture For PolestarThe Polestar 3’s Euro NCAP award fits into a wider strategy built around safety, design, and technology. That same philosophy is visible across newer models aimed at balancing performance with everyday usability. As electric SUVs become heavier, quicker, and more complex, safety rankings are increasingly influential in purchase decisions. Being named the safest Executive Car of the year gives the Polestar 3 a clear, credible edge in a crowded and competitive segment. View the full article

It takes a special kind of brain to swap a Honda Gold Wing engine into the back of a VW Bug as proof of concept, then take on a Porsche 914 next.View the full article

A Flagship Years in the MakingThe Genesis GV90 has been in the pipeline since 2024, when the Neolun Concept first appeared. That concept made its intentions clear: a big SUV meant to set a new benchmark for Genesis and challenge the top luxury brands. Since then, the Neolun Concept has steadily evolved into what we now know as the GV90, with multiple prototypes spotted testing and an initial launch window pointing to April of this year. Along the way, those prototypes hinted at something extra bold: rear-hinged, Rolls-Royce-style coach doors. Now, it looks like the GV90’s launch will slip to the second half of 2026. The coach doors may not make it to production either. For anyone waiting, it’s another sign that Genesis is still working out the final details on its most ambitious SUV yet. Shorts Car/Instagram Why the DelayAccording to the Korean Car Blog, the delay appears to stem from a mix of internal reviews and technical hurdles. New leadership at Hyundai Motor Group and Genesis is taking a close look at all major projects, and the GV90 is getting extra attention. Flagship models always get the most scrutiny, especially when priorities shift at the top. Technology is another sticking point. Level 3 autonomous driving is still in the works, and rivals are already rolling out hands-free systems. Genesis likely wants to make sure its tech is ready before putting the GV90 on sale, rather than launching with features that aren’t up to par. As for the doors, recent prototypes reportedly no longer show the rear-hinged coach doors seen on earlier test vehicles. The likely reason is a move to simplify the design. Coach doors add cost and complexity, and Genesis may be focusing on core engineering and technology before considering niche features. Expectations Upon the GV90’s ArrivalEven without coach doors, the GV90 is still expected to aim high. Genesis has signaled plans for ultra-luxury, including possible one-off builds and custom versions that recall the exclusivity of brands like Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Leaks have also pointed to limo-style configurations, suggesting the GV90 is intended to be more than just a bigger electric SUV. However, Genesis seems to be taking a careful approach. The GV90 might be delayed, but if Genesis gets these details right, it could become the brand’s most important model yet. View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

While the Ford factory has seemingly abandoned the Shelby badge (at least for the time being) and decided to name its latest supercharged track star the Dark Horse SC, Shelby American is keeping tradition alive with the return of its GT350 for 2026, and for the new model year, the sports car gets two options that will heighten the driving experience. As before, the GT350 can be had with a manual or an automatic transmission (the Dark Horse SC and even the ultra-costly GTD skip the stick option), but now, buyers can also have the GT350 experience without a roof, letting them enjoy to the full either the roar of a naturally aspirated V8 or the whine of a Whipple supercharger. GT350 Returns for Another Year in a New Color Shelby American View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Shelby American brought the GT350 back around this time last year, and according to the company, demand was strong enough to warrant a second model year. But in 2025, the model was only available in fastback form, and this new convertible option should increase appeal. Based on the Ford Mustang GT, with its 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Coyote V8, the GT350 lets buyers either stick with the standard performance level of 480 horsepower or upgrade to 810 hp through the addition of a Whipple supercharger. The latter option makes this the most powerful GT350 ever produced. Shelby American View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Either way, the GT350 gets a rorty cat-back exhaust from Borla, upgraded suspension, and unique styling elements, including Shelby's iconic stripes. Those who like to stand out in a crowd can also now spec Orange Fury paint for 2026. Open the door, and you're greeted by Shelby door sills, Shelby floor mats, and reupholstered Shelby-branded seats. On convertibles, there's also a roll bar spanning the width of the cabin. Final Thoughts and Pricing Shelby American View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Shelby American is not doing anything revolutionary here. The GT350 gets the above upgrades plus lowering springs and updated sway bars, some new 20-inch alloy wheels, a couple of serialized plaques for the dash and engine bay, and, on manual cars, a short-throw shifter with a ball shifter. Some Shelby badges, redesigned grilles, a vented hood, and a ducktail spoiler complete the upgrades, and if these things sound familiar, it's because this is almost exactly the same treatment the company gives its Super Snake. The only major differences are that the Super Snake makes another 20 hp, gets a smattering of carbon fiber, and will be over three times rarer (300 units versus 1,000 for the GT350). The Super Snake also costs a lot more — $175,885, while a supercharged GT350 fastback costs $121,385, and the convertible costs $127,884. Either option is hard to justify when a Whipple supercharger upgrade can be completed in your own garage, giving you 90% of the Shelby experience for 10 grand or less. Sure, that excludes tuning and a louder exhaust, but those aren't going to break the bank. View the full article

Jeep unveiled the Wrangler Moab 392 two months ago, the first of 12 special-edition Wranglers to celebrate the brand’s 85th anniversary. One special Wrangler will be released each month for a year, and we’ve already seen two more since the Moab 392. It’s been a bit of a wait, but the V8-powered Moab 392 is finally available to order in all 50 states, including states that have adopted the California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards. The presence of a V8-powered Wrangler also gives Jeep an advantage over the Bronco Raptor, which doesn’t come with a V8. HEMI-Powered Wrangler Available Everywhere Introducing the new 2026 Jeep® Wrangler Moab 392, a HEMI® V-8-powered homage to Jeep brand's legendary heritage. The vehicle kicks off the Jeep brand's “Operation Airdrop” campaign, ushering in a yearlong celebration of off-road icons. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Jeep likely needed some more time to certify the Wrangler Moab 392 for sale in CARB states, which include California, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington. The star of the Moab 392 package is the 6.4-liter V8, which delivers 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Those outputs are even better than the 418 hp and 440 lb-ft in the Ford Bronco Raptor, which uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. Of course, the Wrangler also sounds brawnier than its impressive rival. “The Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 represents everything our brand stands for, authentic capability and value, legendary performance and confidence-inspiring power,” said Jeep Brand CEO Bob Broderdorf. “Now available in all 50 states, it gives enthusiasts everywhere access to one of the most capable Wranglers we’ve ever built.” Related: Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 Vs. Ford Bronco Raptor V6: The $80,000 Question Trail-Ready Hardware, But The Price Is High Besides its storming V8, the Moab 392 also comes with steel bumpers and standard 35-inch off-road tires. A 4.56 axle ratio, the 2.72:1 Selec-Trac full-time transfer case, and a cold-air intake hood with water separator should make for a formidable off-road toy. Available exclusively as a four-door model, the Moab 392 can also be equipped with a range of roof options, including the Sky One-Touch Power Top and the Sunrider for the Hardtop; the latter allows you to open only the front portion of the roof. Nappa leather seats are standard, as is a 12.3-inch touchscreen interface. Jeep All of this comes at a cost, as the Moab 392 starts at $79,995, excluding a destination charge of $1,995. Both the base price and destination charge are identical to the Raptor R. We managed to add enough options to the Wrangler to raise the price to $88,960, including special paint and a Warn winch for $1,995. If you don’t have $80k or more to drop on a Wrangler, the 85th Anniversary Edition and Whitecap are cheaper special editions that were also revealed over the last two months. View the full article

Automakers and LawsuitsLawsuits are now just part of the job for automakers. Recent examples include Toyota getting dragged into court after a driver said his car was tracking him without his knowledge. Tesla, meanwhile, is back in the legal spotlight over claims that its Model S's door handles break more often than they should. Most of these cases come down to customers who feel their car crossed a line – whether it’s about privacy, safety, or just plain reliability. But there’s one lawsuit in the mix right now that’s a little different. This time, it’s not a driver or owner taking Kia to court – it’s one of its own seasoned technicians. The problem isn’t some flashy tech or a defect that shows up in the showroom. It’s a sharp metal edge tucked away behind the dashboard of a Kia Soul. What Allegedly Went WrongHere’s what happened, according to the presser: An experienced technician was working inside the dashboard of a 2012 Kia Soul when he ran into trouble. A hidden metal edge sliced his wrist deep enough to damage a tendon, sending him in for surgery. The twist? He’d done this same repair plenty of times before, on similar vehicles, without incident. The technician took Kia to court, arguing everything from strict liability to breach of warranty (which we think is a bit odd), failure to warn, and both manufacturing and design defects. Kia pushed back, saying workers’ compensation should cover it and that most of those legal arguments didn’t fit the situation. The court didn’t buy Kia’s argument about workers’ comp blocking the lawsuit. Arkansas law lets injured workers go after third parties like manufacturers. But the judge did toss out the warranty claims, pointing out that those protections are for buyers and their close contacts – not for technicians working on a car years down the line. Where the Case Stands NowThe strict-liability accusation didn’t stick either. The court zeroed in on whether the car was actually unreasonably dangerous for someone with the technician’s background. With decades on the job, a Kia master certification, and experience dealing with sharp edges behind dashboards, the judge decided the risk wasn’t out of line for a pro. At this point, the case isn’t closed yet. Negligence claims – like failure to warn, manufacturing defect, and design defect – are still on the table. The court pointed out some open questions, like whether Kia should have told technicians to wear gloves, or if that bracket was sharper than it should have been, or could have been made safer. View the full article

Drag racing wasn’t something Mellie Snedeker was born into – it was something she discovered, chased, and built a life around. Now 29, she’s carved out a space in the creative side of the sport, using photography, writing, and social media to tell the stories behind some of drag racing’s biggest moments. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Snedeker’s father and brother had an interest in cars, and the family had an old Monte Carlo project car, but drag racing wasn’t in the cards. She shared her family’s interest in cars and checked out local car shows before eventually checking out a test-and-tune session at her local track, then known as Skyview Drags. Through that, she met Mike and Robin Thompson, which opened the door attending the monthly Strange Engineering Outlaw Street Car Shootouts and Yellowbullet Nationals at Cecil County Dragway. “Once I saw what cars could really do at a track like Cecil, I was permanently hooked,” Snedeker says. A friend let Snedeker borrow his Canon 1D camera to shoot his car, sending her down the photography rabbit hole, and interest that reached a new level when she shot the 2018 PRI Show in Indianapolis. It’s where she realized photography could lead to something more, as she notched her first-ever sale and networked with Street Outlaws stars Jeff “AZN” Bonnett and Sean “Farmtruck” Whitley and photographer Lou Renova, who helped her get started with some photography and social media online courses. “I owe so much to those two for giving me the confidence and knowledge to get off the ground.” Today, Snedeker shoots a variety of drag racing events, primarily in the Pro Mod and drag radial niches. “As we all know, Pro Mods are where it’s at,” she says. “Yellowbullet will always have a place in my heart, with that event and track being where I got my start and first fell in love with the sport.” In recent years, Snedeker has also expanded into writing, giving her another storytelling medium and the opportunity to reach new audiences. “Having my first article featured in Drag Illustrated about Skyview Drags was a proud moment,” Snedeker says. “I went out on a limb pitching the idea and asking if I could write it. Seeing it in print was unreal.” Snedeker loves getting a wild action shot, but she also focuses on the humans behind the machines. “The people of this sport are some of the most passionate I have ever met,” she says. “They pour it into their race program, media outlet, however they’re involved, and I try to showcase that passion and commitment as much as possible.” In fact, connecting with the people of drag racing has been one of Snedeker’s biggest accomplishments over the last few years. “I struggle with shyness and I feel I’ve been doing really well overcoming that,” she says. “Walking up to people I may not know very well and having to talk with them or take a photo is honestly one of the most anxiety-inducing parts about my role in racing media, and it’s something I plan to continue to work on.” With encouragement and guidance from a wide support system, Snedeker has grown and evolved in many ways since she first strolled through the gates at a dragstrip. A niche of that support system can be found in the tightknit group of media members that travel with the Red Line Oil PDRA Series. “The entire PDRA media team is unlike any other,” Snedeker says, specifically noting the mentorship she received from David Hilner and Jason Reiss. “We support each other, provide each other content, bounce ideas off each other. We truly build each other up selflessly. That’s hard to find in this highly competitive industry. “My parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles all pooled money together to help me buy my first full-frame camera and laptop so I could dive right in while I was in graduate school to become a school psychologist,” she adds. “They supported me leaving my ‘safe’ job to pursue work in racing full-time.” Snedeker, who hopes to someday participate in the sport as a racer, continues to find new ways to cover the sport. Building on the social media management skills she developed while working for Butner Motorsports and 2023 DI 30 Under 30 honoree Marcus Butner, Snedeker recently took on a new social media position with Dragzine. It’s part of an effort to scale back exposure to the elements that aggravate a medical condition while still contributing to drag racing’s storytelling. “With a diagnosis of dysautonomia, being out on the track in the hot sun for 14-plus hours a day or freezing temps in spring and fall is becoming less tolerable,” she says. “I’ll never stop taking photos, but I do need to start becoming more mindful of what I shoot and how long I’m outside. Writing and social media allow me to still be involved in the sport in a way I love, while taking care of myself and my health.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Mellie Snedeker first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Four snowmobilers were caught in an avalanche in central Washington, killing two. The other members were saved thanks to a Garmin inReach. View the full article

Long Live the 4erWe remember people scratching their heads when BMW spun off the coupe and convertible versions of the 3 Series into the 4 Series. More people scratched when the company then added a four-door version of the said model as the Gran Coupe, not long after. Still, it's been a proven success, and it even outsold its more practical counterpart last year. To say the 4 Series has its fans is an understatement. Not even the polarizing 'beaver teeth' front end was enough to blunt sales. That said, there were some questions about its future given BMW's Neue Klasse direction. But fear not, the car will live to see a third generation. Confirmed by the CompanySpeaking to Autocar, BMW board member Joachim Post is well aware of the model's popularity. See, Post isn't just a board member; he's also one of the engineers overseeing the development of future BMW Neue Klasse models. With that, he assures consumers that we can expect an all-new 4 Series down the line. "The 4 Series is an important car for us. It's more sporty, and BMW is a sporty brand which has a clear heritage also on the performance side. It will play an important role also for the future," said Post. BMW What to ExpectWe can bet that the present body styles will be carried over to the new generation. Post notes that economies of scale will make it easy for those models to be produced despite being niche products. That said, it's the Gran Coupe that does a lot of the lifting in the 4 Series range. More important here are the powertrain choices. There will still be traditional ICE models, albeit with mild hybrid. With that in mind, we could see tweaked versions of the current 2.0-liter and 3.0-liter engines. Plug-in hybrids will also join the range, as well as a full EV model. The EV version will likely use a different platform and be based on the iX3. The best part? The M4 has been largely confirmed, too. While it's not known if it will be split between ICE and EV versions, there's a good chance of that happening. Should that be the case, the electric M4 should benefit from the same software and hardware applied to the upcoming M3 EV. Of course, BMW is keeping its cards close to its chest regarding that matter, but we'll know more once the folks from Munich drop more hints. View the full article

A Reset After a Rough Year for Mercedes EVsMercedes-Benz wrapped up 2025 in the US with a slight 1 percent uptick, but that small gain didn’t come from electric vehicles. The German marque’s EV sales actually dropped by 54 percent compared to 2024, with almost every electric model sliding backward. Only the G-Class with EQ Technology and the E-Sprinter managed to buck the trend and post higher numbers. That decline wasn’t just the market talking. Late in the year, Mercedes pulled most EQ sedans and SUVs from US production, just as federal EV incentives ended. For a while, dealers and buyers simply couldn’t get their hands on an EQE or EQS. Now, the EQ lineup is back in the US, as if nothing happened. Check the Mercedes-Benz website, and you’ll see every EQ model listed again. This isn’t just a website update, either – Mercedes confirmed to The Drive that the lineup is officially available. “Mercedes-Benz USA temporarily adjusted US EQ order availability last summer to align with US market demand. We continuously optimize our production network and use its high flexibility to react to fluctuations and changing market conditions to remain competitive,” a spokesperson told the publication. Mercedes-Benz EQ Models Are BackThe full roster is back: EQE Sedan, EQE SUV, EQS Sedan, and EQS SUV. Prices haven’t moved much since last year. Both the EQE Sedan and EQE SUV start at $64,950, putting them in the mid-tier luxury EV space with the usual Mercedes look and features. The EQS SUV now starts at $89,950, while the EQS Sedan is – well, perhaps more surprisingly – back with a starting price of $104,400. Mercedes also added a more approachable EV: the new CLA with EQ Technology, now on sale from $47,250. It’s smaller, looks more traditional, and promises the kind of range numbers that might attract buyers who skipped the bigger, more expensive EQ models before. With these models back, Mercedes now covers everything from entry-level luxury EVs to full-size flagships, something the brand was missing when the EQ lineup vanished last year. Did They Get an Update?What’s less clear is whether these EQ models bring anything new. Mercedes hasn’t said anything about changes to range, software, or hardware, so for now, these look like the same vehicles as before. If updates are in the pipeline, we expect a proper announcement. One thing that hasn’t changed: the EQE and EQS SUVs are still built in Alabama. That gives Mercedes a leg up as tariffs rise and incentives disappear. It won’t guarantee big sales, but it does help keep prices and supply more stable than some competitors. For now, Mercedes is putting the EQ lineup back in play to see if the market is any more welcoming this time. Sebastian Blanco View the full article

If you or your off-road group is looking to help conservation efforts, trail projects, or need some financing to ensure we all benefit from public land trails, onX Offroad's Trail Revival project is back.View the full article

Austin Prock will take over driving duties from Bob Tasca III in 2026 as Tasca Racing reshapes its Nitro Funny Car program.View the full article

The first facelift for the Volkswagen ID.4 may be critical. Competition is ramping up like never before, with alternatives from Ford, Tesla, and Hyundai undercutting the ID.4 (which used to start at $39,995 but now costs no less than $45,095 before destination). While we don't yet know if VW is planning to reintroduce a more accessible trim for the 2027 model year's facelift, insiders say this won't be just a facelift but such a major update that it's practically a fresh take on the compact electric crossover, which appears to explain the significant styling alterations coming to the car internally nicknamed the "electric Tiguan." It's even rumored to adopt the ID. Tiguan name. Not only will the ID.4 get sharper looks, but with better underpinnings and tech, not to mention a real name, it might be able to justify its higher price point. 2027 ID.4 to Look a Lot Less Electric, a Lot More "VW" SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The new ID.4 will get both a facelift and a Brazilian butt lift, with restyled lighting and more aggressive bumpers at each end of the compact SUV. The headlight clusters will be larger and less rounded, losing soft edges in favor of angular lines. The headlights will remain connected by a full-width LED strip (some EV trends may never die), though it appears each cluster may retain the pulled-back outermost upper element of the current ID.4 and other Vee-dubs. The main one it needs to resemble is the upcoming ID. Polo, which has even sharper cosmetics thanks to Andreas Mindt, but may also get a significantly inflated price. That also means the ID.4's rear end will retain a full-width bar, but look beyond the camouflaging decals, and the new setup is more rectangular, sharper, and less drooping. Naturally, the side profile looks unchanged, but that doesn't mean it's the same car. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article According to our spies, the ID.4 facelift will be built atop a revised MEB+ architecture with modern battery cells, including Lithium Iron Phosphate, which would typically have lower energy density than the ID.4's current liquid-cooled Lithium-Ion, or Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) battery type, but is more durable, less harmful to the planet, and safer. With newer tech, the updated ID.4 should be more efficient and have a longer range estimate. The powertrains themselves, however, reportedly only need minor updates. Inside, however... 2027 ID.4 Cabin Shows Volkswagen Listens and Learns SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Although we don't have any photos just yet, the next ID.4's interior will be proof that VW listens to its customers, and we mean that in more ways than one. Not only will the cabin finally get physical buttons on the steering wheel and switches in the center console, as customers have long wished for (another reason to laud the ID. Polo), but new software will bring with it a revised IDA voice assistant with ChatGPT. The new software will also allow battery preconditioning (which wasn't possible on pre-2024 ID.4s) and, on a fun note, the ability to select retro gauge clusters, like those from a Mk. 1 Golf. With all these positive revisions, let's hope Volkswagen has the bandwidth for one more, a characteristic that endeared so many fans to the brand in the first place: a price we can all afford. View the full article

Denago unveiled its new RanchHawk UTV, which has an MSRP of $9,999 and is packed with far more features than any of its competitors.View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage 12 – Al Henakiyah to Yanbu Ricky Brabec and Honda HRC’s strategising paid off, as the American pulled off a 3m20s lead on main rival Luciano Benavides, to head into the final stage, with only 105 km of special and a 36 km liason left to run, leaving him with a […] The post Brabec leads after penultimate Dakar Stage as Sander struggles appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

It’s a new name, but familiar roots and power, which is why this may be one of the coolest modern Mustangs ever built. I know that is saying a lot since they recently highlighted the new Mustang GTD, but this one here is like MGD Light was to MGD. This time it’s just with Mustangs, as this one gets many of the unique features of the GTD, including its engine and transmission, along with some sick Carbon Fiber accents. There is a Track Pack option that will be coming, plus a Special Edition Track Pack is apparently on the list as well. Watch the video and you’ll see. The post 2026 Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC First Look: A Shelby GT500 in All but Name. Is This Ford’s Best Mustang? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

If you don’t dig old school Minis, then you are NOT my kind of people. These little machines are responsible for so much in motorsports today and are an absolute riot. They weigh 5 lbs, are surprisingly roomy inside considering their tiny size, and even though they don’t make much power it feels like a lot because of their ultra light weight. I’ll never forget the first time I was in one on a track, and would absolutely LOVE to add one to the collection of muscle cars and trucks at my shop. In the video below you’ll see all kinds of fun wheel to wheel action, from Goodwood, as these little beasts get put through their paces. There is in car, out of car, and on car footage, so check it all out below. Video Description: Sure… the V8s make enough thunderous rumblings around Goodwood to shake your fillings out, but we have a big soft spot for the other end of the scale. How can you not love the plucky underdog? Minis are a Goodwood fan favourite and the high revving engine is a big part of that. We followed this ‪@AlexBrundle1‬ prepared beauty at practice and the 82nd Members’ Meeting. So sit back and soak in the buzzing hornet’s nest that is the Mini at Goodwood. The post Minis, Minis, And More Minies: Here Is High Winding, Side by Side, Sideways, Mini Racing Action From Goodwood In England. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article