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Volkswagen’s retro-futuristic electric van has found a new stage outside the auto show floor. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz appears prominently in Bradley Cooper’s new film Is This Thing On?, positioning the EV as more than a background prop and tying it directly into the movie’s central story about family, transition, and reinvention. The film, directed by Bradley Cooper and starring Will Arnett and Laura Dern, follows a couple navigating separation and co-parenting while reassessing their identities in midlife. Within that framework, the ID. Buzz serves as the main character’s family vehicle, appearing repeatedly as a constant during key moments rather than as a fleeting product placement. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article More Than A Cameo RoleAccording to Volkswagen, the ID. Buzz was deliberately written into the film as part of the lead character’s attempt to reset his life and reconnect with his children. The van is portrayed as something he chooses, not inherits, reinforcing the idea of a fresh start. Cooper has described the vehicle as reflecting both nostalgia and reinvention, themes that mirror the arc of the characters themselves. That positioning aligns closely with how Volkswagen has marketed the ID. Buzz since its debut. As the spiritual successor to the Microbus, the Buzz trades heavily on emotional appeal and cultural memory, aiming to stand out in an EV market often dominated by range figures and charging speeds. Volkswagen Cultural Exposure Meets Market RealityThe big-screen appearance comes at a complicated time for the ID. Buzz in the U.S. While the van has generated strong interest and visibility, Volkswagen has also acknowledged production pauses and strategic reassessments. At the same time, the Buzz has continued to score well in objective measures, including safety. This adds credibility to its family-friendly image as portrayed in the film. Still, challenges remain, as pricing has been a sticking point too. The clash between what a brand dreams of being and what the market actually demands makes the film placement particularly striking. Why It MattersBy placing the ID. Buzz at the centre of a character-driven Hollywood film, Volkswagen is showing a new approach to raising awareness about electric vehicles. Instead of focusing on technical details, they’re highlighting identity and lifestyle. It’s still uncertain if this cultural presence will lead to lasting demand, but the strategy makes it clear that the ID. Buzz is intended to be a symbol, not just a car. View the full article

Mercedes-Benz is clearly going out of its way to keep momentum behind its electric G-Wagon. The brand has now doubled its incentive bonus to $10,000, according to CarsDirect, up from the previous $5,000, which shows Merc is very well aware of the current state of the EV market – annual EQS sales have not exceeded 30,000 units. The updated deal applies to both purchases and leases, giving buyers more flexibility than before. It also shows that even at the very top end of the luxury spectrum, automakers are having to work harder to keep electric models competitive. A Bigger Incentive On A Very Expensive Luxury SUV Mercedes-Benz The new $10,000 bonus is the largest incentive Mercedes has ever offered on the electric G-Class. It applies to the G 580 with EQ Technology, and replaces earlier deals that were limited to lease customers. On paper, a five-figure cut sounds dramatic, but in reality, it trims just over 6% off a vehicle that still starts at more than $160,000. That makes the electric G-Wagon slightly easier to justify, though it remains one of the most expensive electric SUVs on sale. While the expensive side of the EV market cools down, leaders like GM continue to argue that electric vehicles are the long-term winner. As a result, brands are constantly adjusting their strategies to keep buyers engaged rather than stepping away, like Mercedes-Benz is doing. How The Electric G-Wagon Stacks Up Against Rivals BMW Lucid Rivian Just like its petrol-powered sibling, the electric G-Class is all about status. Four electric motors deliver 579 hp and 859 lb-ft of torque, pushing the nearly 6,700-lb SUV to 60 mph in just over 4 seconds, while its range sits at around 239 miles. Those numbers are respectable, but in the luxury EV space, they don't stand out. Rivals such as the BMW iX, Lucid Gravity, and Rivian R1S offer more range and stronger value for money. The quad-motor R1S, for instance, delivers more than 1,000 hp, has a claimed 0 to 60 mph time of 2.5 seconds, can do over 400 miles per charge, and starts at just over $120,000. A Tiny Discount For A Niche Market There is no denying that overall interest for EVs has declined – especially lavish ones – and Mercedes is very well aware of that. Therefore, there are plans in motion for a baby electric G-Wagon aimed at buyers with a tighter budget. Still, the bigger picture suggests electric vehicles are far from fading. Mini sold more than 100,000 EVs in 2025, showing that demand remains strong among the right audience. But on the other hand, buyers are more value-conscious than ever before, hence why BYD has overtaken Tesla as the world’s largest EV seller. Will the electric G-Wagon’s $10,000 bonus translate to millions of sales overnight? No. But it could be enough to sway buyers who are already torn between the traditional V8 icon and its electric successor. At least until 2 February, when the incentive expires. View the full article

Super soft sand and the biggest dunes of the race, all after spending the night in the middle of the desert in tents and working on their own rides, means Stage 10 is going to be a tough one. Speed is 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 10 Racing Action! The 2nd Half Of Marathon Stage 2 And The Biggest Dunes YET! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Bentley Batur is rare, with just 18 examples being made, and the Batur Convertible is even more unlikely to be seen at a Cars & Coffee, with only 16 planned. So how do you make one of these extraordinary vehicles stand out even more? By allowing a customer's individualization options to be nearly limitless, and that's the case with the Batur Convertible #4, which has just been completed, showcasing new ways of customizing the most exceptional of Bentley products. In fact, the Crewe-based automaker says this "represents the most luxurious commission to date with Mullinter Coachbuilt." Presumably, the coming Batur Convertibles will offer similar enhancements, but for now, this is the zenith of Mulliner bespoke artistry. Four New Ways of Making Ultra-Luxury Even More Special Bentley View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article This Batur Convertible is the first to be customized in a quartet of new avenues, formerly unavailable to even the wealthiest Bentley customers. Batur Convertible #4 is the first Bentley to have a tri-toe color scheme using the customer's own colors, the first to have a color-matched bespoke roof color, the first to feature an animated welcome lamp design created by its commissioning customer, and the first to wear 3D-printed platinum. The upper color of the car, Breslow Blue, is what appears on the fabric roof, and when this is stowed, the 'Airbridge' behind the seats is revealed in the same color. Bentley View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A Midnight Breslow Blue hood pinstripe matches the lower bodywork and reappears in accents on the wheels and wing mirrors, while a 6-millimeter-thick gloss-silver stripe on the hood adds contrast. Polished titanium exhaust tips and bright silver grilles bring it all together. As for the welcome lamp, this projects a handwritten script of the customer's name — Sonia Breslow — using 415,800 microscopic mirrors. Batur Convertible #4 Has an Exquisite Interior Bentley View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Inside, tan and caramel hues are accented by the same light blue as the upper part of the exterior and the Airbridge, with contrast stitching on the tonneau, seats, and instrument panel. In the deep-pile floor mats, the Batur volcano that inspired the vehicle's name is outlined, while the Bentley Rotating Display gets bespoke colored faces, matching the satin blue clock face. Bright aluminum in an "engine spin finish" ties the exterior to the cabin, and the 3D-printed platinum mentioned earlier is found on the center marker of the steering wheel, as well as each organ stop. Of course, not just anyone can convince Mulliner to allow such extensive personalization; this Batur Convertible joins a collection that includes a Blower Continuation Series, a Speed Six Continuation Series, and a Bacalar. Sonia Breslow, you've helped design a masterpiece. Hopefully, you'll use the 6.0-liter twin-turbo W12's 740 horsepower as often as possible. View the full article

The cost of buying a new car in the US crossed another psychological threshold at the end of last year. New data from Kelley Blue Book shows that the average transaction price for a new vehicle topped $50,000 in December, marking the highest monthly figure ever recorded and underscoring how far the market has shifted from pre-pandemic norms. Kelley Blue Book reports the average buyer paid just over $50,300 for a new vehicle in December, up slightly from November and higher than a year earlier. This is not a sticker price average but the real-world figure consumers actually paid at dealerships. It reflects a market where higher-priced vehicles dominate sales and where affordability pressures continue to build. Trucks, SUVs, and the Mix ProblemOne of the biggest drivers behind the $50,000 average is the type of vehicles Americans are buying. Full-size pickup trucks and SUVs continue to account for a growing share of sales, and both segments carry transaction prices well above the market average. In December alone, buyers spent a record amount on full-size pickups, many of which now regularly transact above $65,000 when equipped with popular trims and options. This mix shift matters more than across-the-board price hikes. Entry-level cars still exist, but they represent a shrinking slice of the market. As buyers gravitate toward larger, better-equipped vehicles, the average price naturally rises even if individual model pricing remains relatively stable. Affordability Pressures Keep BuildingThe $50,000 milestone lands at a time when affordability is already under strain. Recent Edmunds data exposes the reality of new-car affordability showing that monthly payments and loan terms are stretching further than ever. Higher interest rates combined with higher transaction prices mean many buyers are paying more each month, even when incentives increase. Automakers have attempted to soften the blow with larger discounts toward the end of the year, but incentives have not been enough to reverse the broader pricing trend. December followed a familiar seasonal pattern where year-end demand and premium vehicle sales push averages higher. Looking ahead, there is little indication that average new-car prices will meaningfully retreat. GM and Toyota have warned buyers that new-car prices are unlikely to drop in 2026, citing ongoing cost pressures, regulatory requirements, and consumer demand for high-content vehicles. Even design trends, such as lighting and technology features, point to an industry increasingly focused on complexity and differentiation rather than cost reduction. Jay L Clendenin/Getty Images Why It MattersCrossing $50,000 is more than just a number. It highlights how the US new-car market is drifting further away from mass affordability and closer to a premium-led model, with implications for buyers, lenders, and automakers alike. View the full article

Last month, Porsche said it would be increasing prices of new cars by up to 2.9%, depending on the model. This move comes as a result of the Trump administration’s tariffs. Porschealready increased prices at least twice in 2025, and this latest price hike is now evident in the staggering starting price of the 911. The base 911 now begins at $135,500, and that increases to $137,850 once you add the expensive destination charge of $2,350. In roughly half a decade, the cheapest 911 has seen prices rise by around $40,000. Related: Here's How Automakers are Raising New-Car Prices Without Changing the MSRP Iconic Sports Car, Epic Price P Before this latest price increase, the base 911 had a starting price of $134,650, including the destination charge. It’s now $3,200 pricier, representing a 2.4% increase, which is within the range Porsche promised last month. Other 911 variants have been affected by the price jump, too. The mid-range Carrera S now costs $158,550 including destination, up by $4,500 (+2.9%), while the Carrera 4 GTS costs an eye-watering $191,650, up by $5,300 (+2.8%). If you want the breathtakingly quick 911 Turbo S, it will set you back $272,650—the same variant cost $217,550 back in 2023. To be fair, the Turbo S justifies its hefty price for 2026 somewhat, as it has a new T-Hybrid powertrain that produces combined outputs of 701 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. Going back to the base 911 for a second, this model started at just below $100,000 back in 2020. In roughly half a decade, it’s $40,000 more expensive. Is The Base 911 Still Worth It? Porsche The cheapest Porsche 911 still has a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that produces 388 hp. It’ll reach 60 mph in 3.9 seconds without any options. This is still a remarkably well-rounded sports car that thrills on a twisty road but is compliant enough to work as a daily driver. But it’s impossible to look past the performance cars you can get for less money. The base Chevrolet Corvette starts at $70,000, almost exactly half the price of the cheapest 911, yet packs a 495-hp V8. For just $117,700, you can drive off in the Corvette Z06 with its monster of a flat plane crank V8, which makes 670 hp. In performance and drama, it’s in a clear league above the base 911. 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Chevrolet View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Mercedes-AMG GT 55 has a 469-hp V8 and starts at $138,150, around the same as the base 911. It’s slightly quicker to 60, sounds better, and is a lot more luxurious. After some Italian flair? The Maserati GranTurismo starts at $145,000 and has almost 100 horses more than the 911. The 911 is still the benchmark, but it’s becoming more and more challenging to find a rational reason to spend so much more on one. View the full article

BMW Motorrad has confirmed that the highly anticipated F 450 GS will become available in India in the first half of 2026. View the full article

Putting a positive spin on declining sales is tough, but Audi has tried. While BMW and Mercedes each recorded over 100,000 more U.S. sales in 2025 than Audi did, the Ingolstadt-based automaker reports that things began improving in September, with deliveries rising year-on-year in every month thereafter. Audi also delivered a record 223,000 electric vehicles in 2025, a remarkable 36% increase spearheaded by the A6 e-tron (37,000 units) and the Q6 e-tron (84,000 units). However, Audi saw an overall decline worldwide of three percent compared to 2024, delivering a little over 1.6 million vehicles last year. Audi's Sales Figures Lag Behind Key Rivals Audi Audi delivered over 202,000 units in North America in 2025, a decline of 12.2%. Meanwhile, Mercedes shifted 343,200 cars in the U.S., and the BMW Group broke another sales record, selling over 400,000 cars in America. Granted, the latter figure includes Mini, but still, Audi's rivals seem to be doing better. Audi notes that "geopolitical and economic challenges" pressured its deliveries, essentially blaming tariffs for at least some of its decline in U.S. sales. Other markets weren't especially encouraging either. Audi recorded 464,000 deliveries in Europe, matching the previous year's output, but like many of its peers, the company saw a decline in China, dropping deliveries by five percent to 618,000 vehicles. Related: Audi Recalls Over 356,000 Vehicles Across 19 Models As reported by Reuters, Audi cut its full-year profitability forecast twice last year while contending with restructuring costs and technological setbacks. "An intense competitive environment in China and U.S. tariff policy affected the entire automotive sector and shaped global consumer behavior," said the automaker. So is it all doom and gloom? Not according to Audi execs. Audi Expects Continued Momentum in 2026 Audi Audi says that its newest vehicles should help improve the outlook this year, with March Schubert, Member of the Board of Management for Sales and Marketing, saying, "Our product initiative is hitting the road, and deliveries are gradually reflecting this. In 2025, we were mainly able to achieve increases for electric models. [...] We want to continue this upward trajectory in 2026." Audi recently won the China Car of the Year award, and with buttons returning to its cabins, as well as the possible arrival of a new sub-R8 sports car before long, the company can claw back some of the ground it's been losing to BMW and Mercedes. A new partnership with Rivian should also be beneficial, though that will take longer to bear fruit. In the meantime, Audi's compatriots in Stuttgart and Munich will be looking over their shoulders. View the full article

There were plenty of things to do around his family’s home near Tulsa, Oklahoma, but a teenage Bobby Savedra III chose to spend time working on street cars with his father. They spent hour upon hour in the garage turning wrenches, and as soon as he was 16, Savedra purchased a 2005 Mustang GT and promptly pumped up its power with a Roush supercharger. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. “I have always been good with my hands, and working on cars seemed to come naturally,” says Savedra. “I am motivated to make whatever car I am working on perform better.” As a result, Savedra had one of the most muscular cars at his high school, and appreciated the accolades he received while driving around town. When he turned 18, Savedra’s father ran into Keith Haney, a successful Pro Mod racer who stands out in the Mid-West Drag Racing Series and the Drag Illustrated Winter Series, and asked if he would consider giving his son a position on his championship-winning Pro Mod team. “My father told him that I was a hard worker and would love the opportunity to be part of his racing team, and fortunately, Keith welcomed me aboard,” says Savedra. “I was very happy, and my father told me to buckle up and get ready for the opportunity I was given.” As determined as he could be, Savedra, who was working at a car wash at the time, closely observed what the team did to prepare for a race, what they did at a race, and what they did after a race. He soaked in as much information as he could the first year, and by the second year, he was helping with engine maintenance and tire and wheel maintenance on a full-time basis. “What I remember most about the very first race I went to as a member of Keith’s team is how bone-shaking it felt to be standing on the starting line when his car launched,” says Savedra. “It was awesome, and because of the team I was surrounded by, it was not intimidating or imposing. Instead, it was incredible. Now I have worked my way up to car chief, so I am checking over everything, writing things down, making jet changes, putting pistons together and more. Among the many things I am proud of is our 2023 Mid-West Drag Racing Series Pro Mod championship.” Savedra realizes he’s working on a high-caliber piece. Haney’s Jerry Bickel-built “Black Mamba” Camaro sports a 998-cubic-inch Pat Musi engine, a nitrous system by tuner Brandon Switzer’s Switzer Dynamics, and a Lenco and Ty-Drive and runs 3.61 at 209 mph in the eighth mile. Savedra III, who has developed a close bond with Haney, acknowledges that being part of the team requires a huge amount of commitment and hard work, but his heart is in it. “This is rewarding for me personally, and I am grateful to my family, especially my dad, and to Keith, who believes in me and gave me this opportunity,” says Savedra. “I also owe a lot to Steve Cooks, who taught me so much; Shane Goodnight, who taught me about the engine; Dale Hancock, who taught me how to do the nitrous bottles and about how dangerous they can be; and Brandon Switzer, who taught me how to set up the four-link and suspension and so many other things. I also appreciate that my fiancée, Lakin Shelton, is by my side while I follow my dream.” The ambitious Savedra, who aspires to reach even greater heights, will climb into the driver’s seat of Haney’s Camaro in 2026, as Haney is set to debut a new hot rod. “I will make test passes in the Camaro over winter, just to get the feel of it, and take it from there,” says Savedra, who will get his start in the MWDRS Pro 4.20 class. “That opportunity just makes this whole experience even better.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Bobby Savedra III first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Yes, Jensen is Still AroundSay Jensen to any Brit, and they'll likely picture the Interceptor grand tourer built from the mid-'60s to the mid-'70s. Of course, Jensen's history goes far beyond that, as it was founded in 1922. They built cars on a fairly regular basis until 1976, paused for nearly 25 years, and tried to produce cars again in 2001 with the Jensen S-V8. That said, the S-V8 wasn't exactly a huge hit, and the original company was eventually dissolved in 2011. However, the name is still alive through Jensen International Automotive (JIS), and it has been rescuing and restoring Interceptors since 2011. Now, the company is opening a new chapter with an all-new vehicle. A Modern InterpretationJIS has announced that it will build its first-ever vehicle. Given that the Interceptor is its most popular vehicle, perhaps it's no surprise that it will be a grand tourer inspired by the classic. The company is keen to point out that it will not be a restomod or a continuation series of the '60s model. Instead, the car will be developed from the ground up utilising JIA's in-house engineering. Based on the teaser image, JIS is sticking to its word. The silhouette incorporated the classic long hood, short deck look that has served as the template for many GTs. We can also see some aero elements, namely the front splitter and rear diffuser. Hopefully, the Interceptor's distinctive glass hatch makes an appearance here. Jensen International Automotive What to ExpectJIS says the car will be built on a bespoke aluminum chassis. At the same time, it'll be powered by an in-house V8, a huge departure from the Chevy LS-powered 'recommissioned' Interceptor the company has been building for about 15 years now. There's no mention of electrification here, which is probably for the best if JIS really wants to capture the spirit of the original. JIS calls it a "thoroughly modern take on a luxury British GT," and that it'll "ensure a fully analogue driving experience." Each car will be hand-built, so those interested in one shouldn't expect it to roll out in just a few weeks. It's not that the lines for it will be really long, though, as it will be a limited-run model. They didn't say how much each car will cost, but we're assuming it'll be at least six figures. View the full article

MotoGP is switching to 850cc engines in 2027 in the name of safety, but history suggests lap times won’t stay slow for long. View the full article

A veteran racer and promoter is leading the charge to reopen an abandoned North Carolina 1/8-mile strip in 2026.View the full article

Ford has been making waves lately, winning a NACTOY award for Truck of the Year with the Maverick Lobo compact sport truck and unveiling the Dark Horse SC as the successor to the Shelby GT500. And now there's something coming for those who prefer a more utilitarian vehicle in their lives, with the Blue Oval announcing that a new 2027 Super Duty Carhartt truck will arrive later this year. Details are scant, and only a single teaser image was provided with the announcement, but a badge on the driver's door indicates that the pickup will be powered by the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbodiesel engine. Also, note the wheels, which are inspired by manhole covers. Ford and Carhartt Go Back a Long Way Ford Ford and Carhartt's first factories in Detroit were situated just a mile apart, with the former founded on 16 June 1903, and the latter being born more than a decade earlier, in 1889. A fascinating video published by automotive enthusiast James Pumphrey's Speeed YouTube channel (yes, with three e's) is embedded below and shows how Carhartt's apparel became so famous for its no-nonsense durability and easygoing style, and Ford took note in the early days, with its factory employees being dressed in Carhartt workwear over the past 100 years. Their partnership dates back to the 1920s, and the two collaborated on apparel programs through the 1970s, and now, their partnership has been made official at the 2026 Detroit Auto Show. This collaboration will result in new co-branded merchandise and access to ToolBank USA resources (providing access to tools for community revitalization, trade education, and disaster relief). Ford also intends to donate an F-150 to the ToolBank non-profit, while Carhartt will support Ford dealerships with new workwear programs. Presumably, it won't be long before customers can purchase Carhartt clothing at Ford dealers too. What to Expect From the Carhartt Truck Ford Ford says that the collaboration on the Carhartt truck will bring heritage workwear and automotive craftsmanship together and that "the inspiration for many of the details of the vehicle came after Ford designers visited the Carhartt store [...], gaining insights into different textures, colors, and functionality of Carhartt products." This means we can likely expect something like upholstery inspired by Carhartt's durable fabrics, with muted tones like beige, black, navy blue, and grey. As noted above, Ford also says we can look forward to wheels inspired by the manhole covers outside Carhartt's Detroit store. Expect more teasers with additional info to follow in the coming weeks and months. View the full article

This little guy allegedly gets 75 miles on a single charge, and it even comes with reverse to make every rider's life a little easier.View the full article

The End of the Current RDXThe Acura RDX has quietly been a mainstay in the compact premium SUV segment since 2007. It was one of Acura’s first real pushes into this space, and over the years, it’s become a pillar for the brand. The third-generation RDX, which landed in 2019, brought turbo power back into the mix, sharpened up the handling, and packed in more tech. That run is about to wrap up. Acura has confirmed that the current RDX will roll off the line for the last time later this year. The good news is, it’s actually the setup for a bigger change. The next RDX is already in development, and for the first time, it’s going electric. Instead of dropping the nameplate, Acura is giving it a new job – helping lead the brand into its next era, where electrification and familiar models go hand in hand. What Acura Has Confirmed So FarAcura has confirmed that the next RDX will be a fourth-generation model, and it’s getting a two-motor hybrid-electric system. This is new territory for Acura, but not for Honda. The same hybrid setup is already at work in the CR-V, Accord, and Civic hybrids, where it lets you cruise on electric power at low speeds and blends in the gas engine when you need more punch. It’s a proven system, just now making its way into Acura’s lineup. For Acura, this is a big move – taking Honda’s tried-and-tested hybrid tech and putting it into a premium package. The hybrid RDX is meant to bridge the gap, giving buyers a choice between gas, hybrid, and eventually full electric, all under one familiar badge. Production of the current RDX – built in Ohio right next to the MDX – wraps up later this year as Acura gears up for the changeover. Expect the hybrid RDX to hit showrooms in the next couple of years, keeping a nameplate alive that’s already found homes with about 850,000 North American buyers. The RDX Isn’t the Only Acura Getting AttentionThe RDX isn’t the only Acura getting attention right now. The Integra Type S is set for some exterior and interior tweaks to keep it sharp as rivals step up their game. Acura also has more updates planned for the MDX, with those changes coming in the second half of 2026. Looking at the bigger picture, all these changes fit into Honda’s broader product roadmap. Acura’s first all-electric RSX SUV is also on the way, with a launch set for the second half of 2026, about a year after it was first shown as a prototype in Monterey. Kristin Shaw View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage 11 – Bisha to Al Henakiyah Skyler Howes competes in his eighth Dakar Rally this year, but Stage 11 of the 2026 running marked his first special win, as well as becoming the ninth American rider to win a stage, with fellow Monster Energy Honda HRC rider Adrien Van Beveren making […] The post Howes leads Honda HRC 1-2 at Dakar Stage 11 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

A handful of laws passed last year have come into effect, and two from Utah prohibit lane-splitting and make popping a wheelie a crime. Lane-filtering, however, remains legal. View the full article

Opel’s 50,000-Pixel Headlight GambitOpel is betting big on brains over brute force with the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, unveiled at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show. The headline feature is Adaptive Intelli-Lux HD lighting, a system boasting more than 50,000 individual light elements, 51,200 to be exact, now trickling down from their Grandland SUV, which shares a platform with the Jeep Compass, to Opel’s compact car. On paper, the technology is designed to dramatically improve nighttime visibility while reducing glare, a timely move as modern headlights face growing criticism for being painfully bright. That criticism isn’t unfounded. For years, automakers operated under the assumption that brighter meant safer, an arms race that led to eye-searing LED setups and regulatory blind spots. Studies and reporting have since shown that excessive brightness can be just as dangerous as inadequate lighting. Opel’s pitch is that Intelli-Lux HD isn’t about blasting more light down the road but about putting the right light in the right place, and nowhere else. Stellantis Precision Lighting, Not a Blinding MenaceEach Astra headlamp contains 25,600 individually controllable pixels, allowing the system to shape the beam with surgical precision. Using a forward-facing camera, Intelli-Lux HD detects oncoming traffic and vehicles ahead, then “cuts them out” of the light pattern faster and more accurately than earlier matrix systems. The result is a narrower light tunnel around other road users, while the rest of the roadway stays fully illuminated. Opel claims real safety gains back this up. At 50 mph, obstacles can be detected 30 to 40 yards earlier than with halogen headlights, translating to one or two extra seconds of reaction time. The system also adapts to corners, activates side lighting to avoid dark spots, reduces glare on rain-soaked roads, and even dims traffic signs so reflections don’t blind the driver. It’s a clear attempt to answer concerns raised by regulators and researchers about glare, spectrum, and driver discomfort, without retreating to dimmer lights. Stellantis The Complicated, Regulated Future of Car LightingThere’s no ignoring the complexity that comes with 50,000-pixel headlights. Repairs won’t be cheap, and DIY fixes are basically a thing of the past. How many car guys can replace a light bulb? Apparently, these days, it’s not as easy as we remembered it to be. As headlights evolve into high-resolution digital devices, a cracked lens could mean a four-figure bill rather than a quick swap in the driveway. Still, this complexity may be unavoidable. The industry needs smarter solutions to stay compliant while improving safety. Opel’s Intelli-Lux HD suggests the future isn’t about dimming things down, but about using technology to balance visibility, comfort, and regulation. Stellantis View the full article

Honda recently announced that the TRX90X ATV will be returning for model year 2026, despite difficulties in the niche.View the full article

If you are used to driving modern Formula 1 cars, and someone throws you into a Model T Ford, you are probably scratching your head and wondering who thought to design things so backwards compared to 2026 standards. But it’s fun driving different cars, so I’m sure these guys had fun when they were told they got to drive some special Fords that represent 100 years of advancement. And because anytime two or more people are going the same way in a car, truck, van, bike, or boat, it is automatically a race, we’re sure this one is going to be special. But who will win? Watch and find out. Video Description: Two F1 drivers, 12 cars and over 100 years of motorsports history combine in this racing challenge in partnership with ‪@ford‬. Watch ‪@redbullracing‬ driver ‪@MaxVerstappen1‬ and ‪@VisaCashAppRB‬ driver ‪@ArvidLindbladOfficial‬ face off in a series of on-track challenges in Ford vehicles spanning over 100 years, culminating in a head-to-head, winner-take-all showdown. Join Max, Arvid and Jeremiah Burton from ‪@bigtimebigtimebigtime‬ for this ‪@FordRacing‬ challenge through the ages. Featuring the Ford 1901 Sweepstakes 1924 Model T 1966 GT40 MKII 1970 Mustang Boss 302 1986 RS200 2003 Mustang Cobra 2017 WRC Fiesta 2024 F-150 Lightning SuperTruck 2025 Mustang GT3 2025 Raptor T1+ 2026 Australian Supercar 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC And special guest‪@DanielRicciardo‬ The post What Happens When You Take A Couple Of F1 Drivers And Tell Them They Have To Race 100 Years Of Ford Cars? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Hyundai Thinks Car Doors Are Due for a RethinkAutomakers have spent decades refining engines, suspensions, and software, but Hyundai is aiming at something far more basic: how people actually get in and out of cars. A newly published patent application shows the company experimenting with a double-sliding-door setup that feels less inspired by minivans and more by subways and commuter trains. Published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in January 2026 (you can look it up yourself using patent no. 12523084), the filing outlines a door system where two panels meet in the middle and slide away from each other along a shared rail system. The goal appears simple but ambitious: create a wider, cleaner opening without the packaging compromises of a single large sliding door or the clearance issues of hinged doors. USPTO Subway Logic Applied to Passenger CarsThe most striking thing about Hyundai’s idea is how familiar it feels if you’ve ever boarded a train. Instead of one door moving rearward, the opening splits at the center, with each door sliding outward in opposite directions. That symmetry could make entering and exiting faster and more intuitive, especially in crowded urban environments or curbside pickup scenarios. From the patent illustrations, the mechanism lives largely in the roof structure, using synchronized motors and rails to keep movement smooth and controlled. This approach could reduce door weight per panel while still delivering a wide opening, which is ideal for families, rideshare passengers, or anyone dealing with child seats or bulky cargo. It’s easy to imagine this layout shining in autonomous shuttles or robotaxis, where passenger flow matters more than driver-focused design. USPTO Big Ideas, With the Usual Patent CaveatsOf course, patents are not promises. Automakers routinely file applications to protect ideas long before, or even if, they reach production. Hyundai, like every major manufacturer, uses patents to stake out future possibilities rather than confirm upcoming models. Any trademarks or technologies referenced in the filing are not guaranteed to appear on a showroom vehicle. Still, this application reveals something important about Hyundai’s mindset. As cars evolve into shared, semi-autonomous spaces, the act of getting in and out becomes part of the user experience. Whether or not these double sliding doors ever make it to production, the concept suggests there may be a smarter, more transit-inspired way to think about vehicle access, and Hyundai clearly wants to catch that train of thought. USPTO View the full article

Well, it’s that time of year where the LIWA Hillclimbs are happening. This is some really fun stuff, where folks come from all over to race up an epic dune in Dubai. Located not far from the Liwa Oasis, this is a hot spot for dune racing. In fact, every Friday evening huge crowds show up to have fun, eat, race, and enjoy the sand. They show up in everything from build 2JZ combos to twin turbo LS engines, and even Pro Mod combos. Yep, there are some serious players here, and when you see these purpose-built machines hauling ass up the dunes you’ll understand. The LIWA hillclimb is huge, but the annual New Years LIWA festival is really something special. Below are the first two videos we’re going to share from this epic spot. If you haven’t watched any of this event before, then you have missed out on flips, crankshafts falling out, and fires, along with a lot of flying sand and speed. Watch. The post The LIWA Festival 2026 Hillclimb Was Epic As Always! The Rooster Tails, Stunts, And Carnage Start Right Here! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The 2026 Triumph Bonneville adds refinements to both the T100 and T120 to give riders more of what they want out of both bikes.View the full article

It’s winter, and the last thing anyone wants is to be stuck on the size of the road with a flat tire in freezing conditions. But if you own a 2026 Nissan Rogue—the company's best-selling model in the United States, with almost 220,000 models sold in 2025—your problems may continue even after fitting your spare tire. Nissan has issued a recall for some 2026 Rogues for having spare tires that may not match the size and inflation pressure information on the tire placard. While no incidents have yet been reported, this spare tire mixup could pose an increased risk of a crash. Maintenance Technician Spotted The Problem N Back in October, a maintenance technician noticed that a spare tire assembly was out of sequence during production. Following an internal investigation by Nissan, it was found that a significant number of Rogues were manufactured with the wrong spare tires. The potential number of affected units amounts to 4,655 vehicles. According to a recall report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these vehicles don’t comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, named as Tire Selection and Rims. Nissan says dealers will inspect the spare tire of affected models and replace them if necessary, free of charge. Notification letters will be sent to owners on February 13, 2026, so it’s something to be aware of if you own a 2026 Rogue. According to Car Complaints, the job will take roughly 30 minutes. Related: Darker 2026 Nissan Rogue Revealed As All-New RAV4 Looms Kia SUVs Faced Nearly Identical Issue Last Year Kia Late last year, Kia issued a similar recall for certain Telluride and Sorento models. As with the 2026 Rogue, these SUVs were equipped with incorrectly sized spare tires during production. The automaker violated the same federal safety requirement because of this, but Kia also admitted that the traction control and anti-lock braking systems may be affected by the fitment of the wrong spare tire. The number of Kia SUVs affected was way smaller than Nissan’s recall—only around 45 units. Oddly, Kia ran into the same issue back in 2022. On both occasions, human error was blamed. While this tire recall may not seem as serious as the engine recall for 2021-2024 Nissan Rogues, one can’t underestimate the importance of tire health and specifications, especially during winter driving. Tread depth, correct tire pressure, and the correct tire type are all critical in helping you maintain control of your vehicle in adverse conditions. View the full article

A Type R That Refuses to Bow OutThe Honda Civic Type R is starting to look like it’s running out of road, at least outside the US. Japan has already shown off a Civic Type R Final Edition, and Europe has rolled out its own Ultimate Edition as emissions rules tighten and priorities shift. For a lot of markets, the FL5 is being treated as the last hurrah, making it feel like the Civic Type R is about to bow out. The US, however, is telling a slightly different story. American Honda confirmed that the Civic Type R will carry on into the 2026 model year, albeit with a price increase. Rather than quietly extending production, Honda appears to have more ambitious plans. In its official 2026 US business outlook, the company stated that the Civic Type R is scheduled to receive updates this year, including changes to both exterior and interior styling. That puts the American-market Type R in a unique position: not a farewell model, but a refreshed one. Honda What Honda Is Likely ChangingHonda hasn’t given the full details yet, but the direction is starting to show. A Civic Type R-based HRC Concept was displayed in the recently concluded Tokyo Auto Salon, which could be hiding the update underneath a colorful camouflage and a flurry of body kits. Outside, we expect new front and rear bumpers and updated LED rear turn signals to match the latest Civics. Honda is also expected to use tougher paint, like what’s already on the Civic, which should finally address complaints about paint durability. Inside, the updates are all about making the car easier to live with. Swapping the USB ports from Type-A to Type-C is long overdue, and adding front seat heaters would make the Type R more comfortable all year. Expect a Google-powered Honda Connect 9-inch navigation system, which brings the tech up to date without changing the cabin’s basic layout. Other tweaks, like memory for the auto brake hold, are also expected. Crucially, nothing so far suggests changes to the powertrain or chassis – at least not yet. Honda Other Honda and Acura UpdatesThe Civic Type R update isn’t happening in a vacuum. Honda and Acura are both pushing harder on performance for 2026. The Integra Type S will get its own exterior and interior upgrades this year, making it clear the car is here to stay as the more polished sibling to the Type R. The Acura MDX is also getting more updates later this year, and bigger changes are coming. The next RDX will bring Acura’s first two-motor hybrid system, while the all-electric Acura RSX SUV is set to launch in late 2026. On the Honda side, updates to the Pilot will also happen this year. And just like what’s shown in the Civic RS e:HEV at the Tokyo Auto Salon, America’s Civic Hybrid will adopt the Prelude’s S+ Shift. You might also want to get used to Honda’s new logo, as it will be slapped on Honda EVs and hybrids starting next year. View the full article