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Trick Rides Modernizes the GT350 FormulaTrick Rides has built its reputation on obsessive craftsmanship and reverence for American muscle. Recently, it unveiled the Shelby GT350TR, a modern, track-focused reinterpretation of one of the most important names in American performance. Built entirely in the company’s 31,000-square-foot facility in Yukon, Oklahoma, the GT350TR blends classic Shelby styling cues with contemporary engineering, aiming to deliver modern performance without abandoning the character that made the original GT350 a legend. Unlike a traditional restoration, the GT350TR is a ground-up build designed to meet today’s performance expectations. Steel body panels maintain authenticity, while flush-mounted glass, custom LED taillights, and Ringbrothers hardware introduce subtle modernization. The approach is intentional: keep the visual identity familiar, but engineer everything beneath the surface to modern standards. Trick Rides View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article 700 Horsepower and a Manual-Only SetupPowering the Shelby GT350TR is a supercharged 700-horsepower Coyote V8, paired exclusively with a TREMEC T-56 six-speed manual transmission. Trick Rides is clearly targeting purists, prioritizing driver engagement over automated performance. A custom exhaust system with Ultimate Headers and MagnaFlow mufflers delivers the aggressive sound expected from a Shelby-branded build. For buyers seeking a different flavor of performance, Trick Rides also offers a naturally aspirated 427 cubic-inch stroker engine. Both powertrain options reinforce the same philosophy: high output, mechanical involvement, and a driving experience that stays true to the Shelby name rather than chasing trends. Trick Rides View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Power Has a Price, and it ain't CheapThe GT350TR rides on a Roadster Shop chassis similar to that of the Fox body Mustang at last year's SEMA, It brings modern rigidity, ride quality, and handling to the classic platform. Independent front suspension, Fox coilover shocks, and a parallel four-bar rear suspension with a 9-inch rear axle provide tunability and stability. Oversized sway bars front and rear, Forgeline three-piece wheels, and Continental Z-rated tires complete the performance-focused setup. Braking is handled by Baer hardware, with six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers sized to match the car’s output. According to founder Jason Engel, the goal was a Shelby that could be driven hard without losing its identity. The Shelby GT350TR starts at $339,000 and is offered in custom paint schemes, positioning it as a high-end, no-compromise build aimed squarely at serious collectors and drivers. Trick Rides View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Detroit Auto Show has kicked off, setting the stage for the Automotive Press Association to announce the winners of the North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards (NACTOY). Choosing from a pool of nine finalists (three in each category), judges have selected the following as the best all-new or substantially redesigned vehicles on the market in an independent process that involves them voting individually, with the votes only being counted by Deloitte just before the presentation. Without any further ado, let's see what the winners were. North American Car of the Year Winner Honda View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The finalists in the Car of the Year category were the Dodge Charger, the Honda Prelude, and the Nissan Sentra, and it's the controversial eighth-generation Charger, now in its 60th year, that took home top honors with its 550-horsepower inline-six. While some judges liked the budget-minded simplicity of the Sentra or the accessible style and fun of the Prelude, it's the retro-futuristic muscle car that won the most votes. Will the Charger's success at the awards ceremony be reflected in improved sales in 2026, or will buyers disagree with the judges? Time will tell. North American Truck of the Year Winner RAM View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Finalists in this category were limited to just two manufacturers, with the Ram 1500 HEMI and Ram 2500 competing against the Ford Maverick Lobo for North American Truck of the Year. The compact pickup was the winner, giving Ford the Truck of the Year award for the sixth consecutive year. The Ram options may be giving buyers what they want in a V8 engine and exceptional capability, but the Maverick Lobo's fun factor and accessible pricing helped it stand out this year. North American Utility Vehicle of the Year Winner Lucid View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Competing in the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year category were the innovative new Lucid Gravity SUV, the compellingly-priced Nissan Leaf crossover (which starts under $30,000), and the larger, more luxurious Hyundai Palisade SUV, with the latter winning the award in 2026. The Gravity made the finals for its innovative technologies and space, while the Leaf was competing on its price and usefulness, but the Palisade is just too good an all-rounder and too well-priced to be beaten. Final ThoughtsRelated: Every 2026 World Car of the Year Finalist Has Some Form of Electrification With any award, there is always bound to be some controversy, and there will always be those who disagree with the winners or even the finalists. The Dodge Charger is a tough one to justify this year, as its platform was originally meant to be EV-only, baking in unavoidable compromises, and its sales so far have been weak. With affordability a hot topic at the moment, some will argue that the Sentra should have won. But perhaps that's why the Ford Maverick Lobo stood out in its category — it's a blend of practicality, style, and fun in an affordable package. Some might wonder why something as expensive as the Gravity was considered, too, especially since it's an EV, which makes it a niche vehicle. But that's the beauty of the NACTOY awards: numerous judges from a diversity of backgrounds vote independently, and even the president of the association doesn't know the winners until the moment they're announced. Do you agree with the winners this year? If not, which of the finalists would you have given the awards to? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article

Keeping the V8 RunningDownsized turbos have been the way for the last couple of years. Sixes have been replaced by boosted fours, turbo-sixes have substituted V8s and V12s, and, well, you get the picture. Yes, the V8 is still around, but the options are slimming down by the minute. Thankfully, there are still automakers who want to keep it alive by any means necessary. One of those manufacturers is Ford, and it's hoping its planned solution will keep them around for much longer. According to CEO Jim Farley, the company is open to hybridizing its V8 engines if that should help extend the relevance of the eight-cylinder motor for more generations to come. Ford Hybrid V8s Coming SoonApart from turbocharging, electrification has become another avenue for automakers to extract more performance and efficiency out of their powertrains. Of course, one of the reasons why they're doing that is to comply with ever-tightening emissions standards worldwide. With that, Ford acknowledges that it has to hybridize its large and performance-oriented engines to stay relevant. "It’s pretty clear that hybrid is the performance drivetrain of the future," said Will Ford, the General Manager of Ford Racing, during the Dakar Rally. CEO Jim Farley also mentioned that hybrid V8 power was 'absolutely' on the cards for the Raptor range. Car Expert also noted that the Mustang could receive some battery assistance in the future. A Good Move?During the event, Farley pointed out to the press that the best-selling version of the F-150 has been the EcoBoost hybrid. He also mentioned that Ford has accelerated investment in the hybridization of its vehicles, including the performance side. While Ford has seen success in hybrid pickups, the final decision will depend on customer reaction towards the idea. "We’re not going to get ahead of ourselves and do something that customers don’t want, but we absolutely need to make sure that we continue to push Raptor in every way to make it maintain its position as the most off-road capable vehicle," said Ford. He adds, "That's the nice thing about hybrid is it might allow us to keep the V8 alive a little longer – hopefully a lot longer." John Beltz Snyder Potential ProductsWith that in mind, it seems that Ford is already in the middle of developing its battery-assisted V8. But what products could make this possible hybrid engine? The most logical answer seems to be the F-150 Raptor. Currently, the Raptor R uses a supercharged 5.2-liter Carnivore V8 with 720 hp and 640 lb-ft of torque. No doubt those are strong numbers, but electrification could bump that up even higher if given the chance. Of course, another candidate would be the aforementioned Mustang. That said, a hybrid V8 could also make sense in less performance-oriented applications. The Ford Expedition is one, and another could be the Super Duty. The latter could greatly benefit from a hybrid system should it be given the capability to power tools and devices in remote job sites. Either way, Ford is looking deep into the matter, and there's a chance we might see the first electrified V8s roll out before the end of the decade. Ford View the full article

Introduced for the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, this special edition Suzuki DR-Z4S is meant to amp up the adventure aspect of the capable dual sport.View the full article

Backing Away From The Brink of Trade WarAfter months of escalating tensions, the European Union and China have agreed to a framework replacing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles with minimum pricing agreements. Rather than forcing Chinese manufacturers to pay tariffs, the EU is asking China to sell cars at or above a predetermined price floor. China's Ministry of Commerce called the framework an important breakthrough. It marks a marked departure from 2024, when China threatened countermeasures on European imports. Notably, Chinese carmakers captured nearly 13% market share of electric vehicles in Europe by the end of 2025, despite the existing tariffs. How the Price Agreement System Actually WorksUnder the new framework, Chinese manufacturers avoid tariffs by guaranteeing their vehicles won't undercut European competitors. Each carmaker negotiates its own minimum price floor with the EU, based on vehicle type and market segment. The EU monitors compliance through import documentation and can reimpose tariffs if manufacturers breach agreements. This system allows Chinese EVs market access while theoretically protecting European automakers from what Europe calls predatory pricing. However, enforcement remains challenging since manufacturers can adjust specifications or introduce new models to work around pricing commitments. Volkswagen View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article America Took A Different ApproachIn comparison, the United States has taken a fundamentally different path to address the looming threat of cheap Chinese EVs undermining domestic production. Electric cars, like the best-selling $10k BYD Seagull with a 250-mile range, could seriously shake things up in the US market, where the average price of new cars has crossed $50,000. The Seagull, and a flood of Chinese EVs like it, remain unobtainable in America thanks to high import tariffs, bans on the connected tech in them, and registration hurdles that’ll turn off even the most enthusiastic deal-shoppers. The practical impact on consumers remains minimal in the US, since Chinese EVs represent only 2% of total electric vehicle imports. BYD Why the US Won't Adopt EU-Style Pricing AgreementsThe probability of America implementing EU-style minimum pricing appears extremely low. All things considered, the tariff debate is bipartisan, now leaving little room for diplomatic compromise. Secondly, the US puts national security and industrial policy before access to super-affordable Chinese EVs. Lastly, with Chinese EVs representing a tiny fraction of vehicular imports, the US faces much less pressure than the EU to compromise, where electric vehicles from China clocked in over 20%. Europe has sought to regulate Chinese competition while keeping markets open. America has chosen to wall off its market, betting domestic manufacturers can catch up behind protective barriers. View the full article

Around a month ago, Dodge dealers were still battling to sell 2024 versions of the Hornet plug-in hybrid. At that stage, inventory of the 2024 electrified SUV still sat at over 80%. But the Hornet’s problems run far deeper than the hybrid model, as Dodge has seen fit to kill off the crossover entirely, including the base non-hybrid model. This means there’ll be no 2026 Hornet, with the sporty crossover surviving for a mere three model years. Dodge Blames Policy Shift For Hornet’s Demise Dodge Hornet James Riswick View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A Dodge spokesperson was vague when explaining the reasons for the Hornet’s demise, but ensured that existing owners of the crossover would continue receiving support for parts and servicing. "Production of the Dodge Hornet, built in Italy, has ended due to shifts in the policy environment,” said the spokesperson in a statement to CarBuzz. “Dodge is committed to ensuring Dodge Hornet owners continue to receive customer support, service, warranty coverage and sustained parts supply. All Dodge Hornet models carry a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Dodge Hornet R/T PHEV upgrades to 8-year/80,000-mile warranty on hybrid components and 8-year/100,000-mile warranty for battery." Last year, sales of the Hornet fell off a cliff. Only 9,365 units were sold, a decline of 54% relative to 2024. In Q4 alone, only 879 Hornets were sold, a drop of 82%. Poor sales aside, the “shifts in policy” Dodge referenced likely had to do with the implications of tariffs, which particularly impacted smaller models like the Hornet in price-sensitive segments. As the Hornet was assembled in Italy, it was directly affected by the Trump administration’s tariffs. Dodge Can Refocus On High-Horsepower Models 2026 Dodge Durango Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Although the Hornet’s 268-horsepower engine was no slouch, it was still an outlier in Dodge’s lineup of cars. This is a brand that thrives on large, powerful models, as evidenced by strong sales of the Durango three-row SUV last year. The SUV’s powerful V6 and V8 engines make it an outstanding performer in its segment. The new Charger muscle car also emphasized the continued relevance of gas power at Dodge, with the SixPack models introducing a 550-horsepower 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine last year. There are still hopes that a V8-powered Charger will make a comeback, too. The Hornet’s departure is a disappointment, though, as it was one of the more engaging small crossovers to drive. But you can still buy one, sort of, in the form of the Alfa Romeo Tonale, which lives on for 2026. It has the same powertrain and underpinnings as the Hornet, but with an even more attractive design. View the full article

Like a growing number of Americans, you might look back fondly on your younger days, strapping on a backpack and hiking into the woods for a weekend of camping adventures. But the days of sleeping on the hard ground are but a memory for most campers who prefer to have at least a few of the comforts of home wherever they bed down for the night. Honda That’s given rise to a growing market for lightweight, towable RVs like the Scamp Lite and Airstream Basecamp. And they could soon get some serious competition from Honda Motor Co. The automaker today pulled the wraps off the new Base Station Prototype, a small and modular package it believes could “revolutionize and redefine the towable EV space.” “Base Station is a perfect example of what can happen when you let a team of researchers, designers and engineers pursue bold new ideas to create new value for our customers,” Jane Nakagawa, vice president of the American Honda R&D Business Unit, said during a preview of the new camper. Big Things in a Small PackageThe camper is small enough to fit into the typical garage or parking space, Honda noted, and, at under 1,500 pounds, can be towed by even some subcompact crossovers and sedans. The futuristic design of the Base Camp Prototype is no accident. Honda didn’t want to roll out just another small RV. While it folds into a compact, aerodynamic package, the prototype quickly pops open into a roomy living space with a 7-foot ceiling and room for as many as four. That includes a fold-down, queen-size futon, as well as an optional bunk bed for the kids. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Base Station shows a lot of creative thinking, such as the LED light ring surrounding its big side window. The design is modular, with a variety of different options available, including a fold-out kitchenette and shower. The modules, meanwhile, can be swapped in and out without the need for power tools, said the development team leader Dillon Kane. “The goal is to democratize camping with a light, towable camper you can tow with a compact crossover or EV,” Kane explained during a sneak peek event at the Honda R&D center in Torrance, California where primary development work has been taking place. A Focus on Comfort, Wherever You Go Along with the kitchen and shower, Base Station can be equipped with a fully functional climate control system. You can easily plug it in should you settle in at one of the countless RV parks that dot the American landscape. But the Honda RV is designed to let you travel far off the beaten path and still enjoy many of the comforts of home. The Base Station Prototype features a roof-mounted solar array. And its modular design also provides room, should a buyer choose, to mount a lithium-ion battery backup system, rather than having to rely on a generator for power at night or on rainy days. The pack Honda is developing should provide enough justice “to get you through a long weekend,” said Kane. Related: The Idea of a Self-Driving RV Seems To Have Everyone Excited A Package for Everybody The flexibility of the Base Station design could give Honda a let up on the competition which, from a price standpoint runs around $17,000 for a stripped-down version of the Scamp Lite 13’ model to more than $54,000 for a well-equipped version of the Airstream Basecamp 16X. Honda officials haven’t yet set pricing but expect a production model “would be priced competitively in the towable RV market,” Honda’s U.S. sales chief Lance Woelfer said Tuesday during a media conference call. Translation: a stripped-down Base Station would almost certainly start at the low end, though a fully equipped package, especially with the solar array and battery backup system, would climb substantially higher. “We wanted Base Station of be for everybody,” Nakagawa said. Final development work is still underway and Honda hasn’t formally confirmed whether it will actually put the Base Station into production. But listening to individual members of the R&D team leaves little doubt the Japanese manufacturer is itching to get out there with Base Station. "We will share more information in the coming months,”, “including our future intentions" on building Base Station, Woelfer said. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Drag Illustrated, Melling Performance, and promoters Tom Gunner and Michael Poland have teamed up to deliver the Lil Gangstas Championship Series presented by Melling Performance for the 2025-26 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, race officials announced today. The points champion at the end of the three-race series will earn $10,000 and a sponsorship package from Melling. For over 75 years, Melling has been manufacturing and providing customers with the newest cutting-edge performance engine parts. Melling is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket oil pumps and related products. The Melling Performance line has BILLET Aluminum and Cast Iron oil pumps, camshafts, valve train, and timing components. Their goal is to continually analyze the high-performance engine parts market to be able to provide their valued customers the parts they need. “Melling is looking forward to an outstanding 2026,” said Cale Risinger, Aftermarket and Performance Product Manager. “As a company, Melling will be celebrating its 80th year in business and is one of very few family-owned companies remaining in the engine parts industry. We are excited to be sponsoring one of the fastest growing classes in drag racing, on one of the biggest stages in drag racing. We are also excited to announce that the Lil Gangstas points champion at the Winter Series will be receiving a Melling sponsorship for the remainder of the 2026 racing season.” Lil Gangstas is currently one of the hottest classes in drag racing, featuring heads-up racing on a pro tree, running on a 5.30 index but with the clocks off. Tommy Hoskinson is the current points leader after his $20,000 final-round victory over Gage Burch at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks. For Gunner and Poland, having a highly respected company like Melling on board for the DI Winter Series is another step in the effort to bring their unique grassroots-style brand of drag racing to a mainstream audience. “I remember as a kid watching drag racing and seeing the Melling logo on dang near everything,” said Poland. “All these years later, it’s an honor to have a company that has been behind the racers for decades involved in what we are doing. Having Melling on board for this Lil Gangstas Championship Series is another step for Melling to keep supporting all forms of racing.” Risinger agrees with that statement, praising the duo for not only promoting the working-class drag racers, but celebrating them. At a time when costs are seemingly skyrocketing across the board, helping those drivers and teams that don’t have unlimited budgets is what will allow the sport continued growth and success. Cale Risinger “Melling feels that grass roots-style racing such as Lil Gangstas is very important to the future of motor sports,” Risinger said. “More affordable forms of racing such as Lil Gangstas levels the playing field and allows a larger number of competitors to participate and be competitive. People are far more likely to show up to events knowing they have a chance to win the event, even though they might not have the most expensive car on the property. Giving more participants the ability to race and be competitive is a great thing for the sport of drag racing, and can only lead to its continued growth.” The next race in the Lil Gangstas Championship Series presented by Melling will take place January 23-25 at the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission. The final event will be at the World Series of Pro Mod February 26-28. For more information on Melling’s parts and services, visit www.melling.com. For tickets to the U.S. Street Nationals, visit https://tickets.thefoat.com/BradentonMotorsportsPark/US+Street+Nationals+Presented+by+M%26M+Transmission/tickets/id-U93VjbT5hYtO/ The post Melling Performance Partners With Drag Illustrated Winter Series to Launch Lil Gangstas Championship Series first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Redefining the LensThe six category winners of this year’s Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) have been announced. Before anything else, it’s worth emphasizing that there is no such thing as a “woman’s car” – a point the awarding body itself has long maintained. Rather, the jury is composed entirely of women, giving them a voice in what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry. Now in its 15th edition, this year’s category winners are the Nissan Leaf (Compact Car), Škoda Elroq (Compact SUV), Mercedes-Benz CLA (Large Car), Hyundai Ioniq 9 (Large SUV), Toyota 4Runner (4×4), and Lamborghini Temerario (Exclusive Car). The jury consists of 84 women motoring journalists from 54 countries, and all eligible vehicles – from an initial list of 55 candidates – were required to be produced and sold in at least two continents or 40 countries between January and December 2025. Škoda Electrification With PurposeWWCOTY cited the Nissan Leaf for its “practical approach, offering smooth, quiet driving and outstanding efficiency.” Now in its third generation, introduced last year, the Leaf has evolved from a traditional hatchback into a crossover body style. The Škoda Elroq, meanwhile, is a Czech-built EV that shares its underlying platform with the Volkswagen ID.4. Not sold in the United States, the Elroq earned its category win thanks to its practical interior packaging and aerodynamic improvements, delivering a driving range of over 311 miles under the WLTP test cycle. That roughly aligns with the EPA-rated range of EVs such as the Tesla Model Y RWD, once testing differences are accounted for, with WLTP typically more forgiving. The Mercedes-Benz CLA – which was recently crowned 2026 Car of the Year in Europe – won the Large Car category for its advanced technology, digitalization, and refined driving dynamics. The Hyundai Ioniq 9, on the other hand, was recognized for its “generous interior space, modularity, and a clear focus on comfort for all occupants.” Available in the U.S. market, it competes in the three-row EV segment alongside models such as the Rivian R1S and Cadillac Vistiq. Mercedes Trail Toughness and Supercar TheaterThe remaining two category winners retain internal combustion as the core of their propulsion, setting them apart from the more electrified entries. WWCOTY recognized the Toyota 4Runner for staying true to its traditional SUV roots, combining a 4×4 drivetrain with a body-on-frame chassis. The Lamborghini Temerario, the successor to the Huracán, uses a twin-turbo V8 engine with three electric motors, producing a combined output of up to 907 horsepower. Beyond the category awards, the organization also presented Renault with the Best Tech Award, while Ford received the Sandy Myhre Award, which honors a brand’s commitment to women. The six category winners will now advance to the final round for the overall Car of the Year title, set to be announced in March during the week of International Women’s Day. A month later, the World Car of the Year – a separate organization – is scheduled to reveal its winner on April 1 from a shortlist of 10 finalists, which, like the WWCOTY list, includes the Hyundai Ioniq 9, Mercedes-Benz CLA, and Nissan Leaf. Hyundai View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Jack Roberts may not have grown up in drag racing like so many of the other honorees who appear on the 30 Under 30 List, but he’s become fully entrenched in the sport as a rising star tuner, specifically in the world of small-tire no-prep racing. Roberts and his Squirrel Tuned brand have put drivers like Chase Womack into the winner’s circle at major events in recent months, and if Roberts has his way, he’s just getting started. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Roberts, now 28, first got interested in cars in 2014, but his interest was limited to street cars and roll racing. It wasn’t until 2017 that he took his father’s Jeep SRT down the dragstrip for the first time. When the high-end motor let go in the elder Roberts’ Corvette ZR1, Jack decided he needed to learn how to tune so he could fix or know when something was going wrong. He dove deeper into the drag racing world when he built a Fox body Mustang powered by a stock bottom end 4.8 LS engine. “I pretty much entirely built that car just to learn how to tune on my own stuff,” he says. Roberts admits he was starting from scratch when he got into making high-performance upgrades and tuning cars. “Whenever I first started, I would’ve been nervous to bolt a cold air intake on a car just because I’d never messed with anything like that,” Roberts says. “I was always interested in tuning and thought it was super cool, but it was kind of black magic to me.” Roberts gradually gained knowledge through guidance from mentors like Chris Delgado and classes like High Performance Academy, and of course, through taking his Fox body Mustang to the track and getting real-world experience. At TX2K19 in Houston, Roberts put radials on his Mustang and set the record for a stock bottom end 4.8 in the quarter mile with a 7.91-second pass. That marked a turning point in Roberts’ career. “That was the first time I really did anything like that and proved to anybody that I was able to do something like that,” he says. “That’s where my career started as a tuner. I had done some stuff on friends’ cars before then, but after that is when I actually started advertising and tuning for other people and charging for it.” Most recently, Roberts’ proudest accomplishments have come as the tuner for Chase Womack, who purchased Bobby Ducote’s No Prep Kings car and converted it to run on 28×10.5s. Earlier this summer, Womack won two of the three nights at Outlaw Armageddon in Tulsa driving the “Hitman” ’00 Firebird powered by a ProCharger-boosted Hemi further enhanced with nitrous. “On the third night, we ended up taking a rod out the block in the burnout, so we’ll never know if we were going to be able to clean-sweep it, but we were really happy with that performance,” Roberts says. Along with working with his Squirrel Tuned customers, Roberts takes pride in helping racers who need a nudge in the right direction, paying forward the assistance he received early on. “I’ve been lucky to have a few people that have helped me along the way, and I’ve been lucky to have the opportunity to tune on a lot of cars and make a lot of passes down the track,” Roberts says. “I try to share that knowledge because, ultimately, I think we’re all here just because we’re having fun and enjoying our cars.” As of this writing, Roberts and Womack are preparing for what Roberts describes as their biggest challenge yet: competing in the new True 10.5 class at the three-race Drag Illustrated Winter Series at Bradenton Motorsports Park. With some of the biggest names in small-tire no-prep set to compete, it’s yet another stage for Roberts to show what he’s learned. “I’m looking forward to that and hoping that we can have a good showing there,” Roberts says. “I just want to continue to push the 28×10.5 stuff and do whatever I can – keep working on nice combos like [Womack’s], getting to learn more, improve more, and just push the limits of what’s possible.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Jack Roberts first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Royal Enfield’s new electric mobility brand unveils an electric scrambler motorcycle. It's pretty to look at, but details remain limited.View the full article

The original Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a timeless icon that continues to attract buyers, so it's no wonder that the German automaker expected to build on its success by expanding the range with an all-electric variant. Unfortunately, that hasn't worked out well, but Mercedes sees another potentially profitable avenue of expansion with the crossover in these new spy shots, known as the "Little G." Very little in the way of official information has been provided by Affalterbach, but these spy shots confirm that the mini G-Class is set to be powered by batteries. Will it be exclusively so? That remains to be seen, but perhaps a smaller, rugged-looking electric soft-roader will be more attractive to buyers. Mercedes-Benz's Little G Takes Shape SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The baby G-Class won't simply be a scaled-down G-Wagen, but it will be built on a miniature ladder-frame chassis to preserve the character of the original. Similar suspension and wheels will be fitted, too, but other than that, nearly every part of the compact G will be custom, including the upper body panels and even the door handles. These spy shots seem to confirm these reports; while the overall silhouette is similar to that of the original, the miniature G-Class looks almost like a Chinese knock-off in these spy shots, and the blanked-off front end of the EV exacerbates the effect. Related: Mercedes Ready To Make The V8 G-Class Family Bigger Than Ever Of course, when the camouflage comes off, we expect the baby G to look a lot more premium, but for now, its smaller proportions and overall softer looks have more than a hint of Kia Soul about them. At the rear, at least, the tailgate-mounted spare tire carrier (if it's not a charging cable store as in the midsize G-Class EV) and the rectangular taillights are more typical of the original. Of course, if Mercedes wants to make the smaller G more aggressive, there is a solution... Could the Baby G Get a Real Engine? SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A miniature G-Class has been rumored for many years, and when Mercedes indicated a 2026 release date back in 2023, the appetite for EVs seemed stronger than it does today. Hence, it's entirely plausible that poor sales of the midsize G-Class EV, combined with shifting regulations, could encourage Mercedes to consider reengineering the miniature G with combustion power. In the past couple of years, Mercedes has begun moving away from its poorly received 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid setup, as found in the C63, with straight-six engines and even new V8 power plants being planned and introduced. V8 power, classic styling, and a smaller footprint could be one potent combination, but until we spy a baby G with its front end agape, we'll have to assume that Mercedes is sticking with electric power. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

Malcolm Stewart may be known as a Supercross champion, as well as one of the most badass dirt bikers on the planet, but the man loves to fish. That's why he's starting his own fishing apparel line called Rivell Fishing. View the full article

As of mid-January 2026, a new day has dawned over in Mattighofen. What's going to come next for the mega motorcycle concern?View the full article

A New Generation Without a Sticker ShockMazda is giving the CX-5 its biggest update yet for 2026. There’s a new platform underneath, a cabin that finally feels spacious (at least according to Mazda), and a much more digital interior. Usually, a full reset like this means a big jump in price. This time, Mazda keeps things in check where it counts. The 2026 CX-5 starts at $29,990 for the base 2.5 S, just a small bump over last year. That’s with more standard tech, better safety, and a bigger cabin. Higher trims cost more, though, at least when taken at face value. Here’s how the new pricing stacks up against the 2025 CX-5, based on comparable trims: Trim 2025 Starting MSRP 2026 Starting MSRP CX-5 2.5 S $29,050 $29,990 CX-5 Select $30,380 $31,990 CX-5 Preferred $31,730 $34,250 CX-5 Premium - $36,900 CX-5 Premium Plus $35,680 $38,990 Mazda has trimmed the lineup for the new model year, dropping the Turbo models for now and keeping things straightforward. Entry pricing stays sharp, though keep in mind the $1,495 destination charge isn’t included here. Mazda Sharper Design, Bigger Screens, Calmer CabinThe 2026 CX-5 still looks like a CX-5, but with intentional changes. It sits wider, the wheelbase stretches to 110 inches, and the Kodo design tweaks make it look more solid on the road. New LED lights and a fresh Mazda wordmark on the back clean up the look and bring it up to date. Inside, the changes are more apparent. Mazda claims there’s more room in the back seats and cargo area, fixing one of the old model’s biggest issues. The automaker also stepped up the materials and sound insulation, so the cabin feels quieter and more comfortable. In terms of tech, every CX-5 now uses Mazda Connect with Google Built-in, so you get voice control for navigation, climate, and media. The standard screen is now 12.9 inches, and the top models get a huge 15.6-inch display. Ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and a 360-degree camera system are standard on higher trims. Mazda Familiar Power but Updated DynamicsUnder the hood, the 2026 CX-5 is powered by the same 2.5-liter Skyactiv-G four-cylinder with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, paired to a six-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is standard across the range. The powertrain setup may be the same, but Mazda claims the CX-5 gets improved driving manners. Revised suspension tuning, updated shock absorbers, new wheel and tire setups, and the latest G-Vectoring Control Plus system are in place, touted to deliver smoother responses and better low-grip traction. Mi-Drive modes for Normal, Sport, and Off-Road are also now available. Mazda says the 2026 CX-5 will begin arriving in dealerships in the coming months. Just like you, we couldn’t wait to get our hands on one to see if Mazda’s best-selling model has changed for the better or worse. Mazda View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage 10 – Bisha (Marathon) to Bisha Adrien Van Beveren has claimed the 2026 Dakar Rally Stage 10 win, with a disastrous crash for Australia’s Daniel Sanders early on seeing him quickly back on the bike, but obviously struggling for the pace that’s come so naturally to him, so far. Thankfully the […] The post Broken collarbone can’t stop Sanders at Dakar Stage 10 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

It's a good time to be a fan of German compact luxury crossovers, as there's a greater abundance of choice than ever before, with more to come in 2026: Mercedes-Benz has confirmed that the electric GLC is coming to America to do battle with the EPA-estimate-beating BMW iX3, and each automaker's combustion-powered original will lock horns too. For Mercedes, one of the weapons in its arsenal will be the vehicle in these spy shots, the facelifted GLC 53, AMG's answer to the BMW X3 M50. Captured for the first time in the far north of Sweden, where sunlight is a rare luxury in January, the warmed-up crossover reveals a sporty set of seats to go with its muscular bodywork. 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLC 53 Gets Tweaked SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The camouflage only appearing at each end of the vehicle is effectively proof that the development mule is a facelift, not an all-new vehicle, and that means the cosmetic changes are subtle. While it appears that the front bumper may gain minor alterations around the lower side intakes and perhaps even the large upper grille, the main updates concern the headlights, where three-pointed star-shaped LEDs will help define the daytime running light signature, bringing the GLC 53's styling closer to that of its electric sibling. At the rear, there's only a little camouflage on the bumper, with the lower diffuser-style panel and its circular quad exhausts (square tips would indicate the more powerful 63 variant) left uncovered. The same applies to the taillights, but we suspect these may be swapped for units with Mercedes stars once the late 2026/early 2027 predicted debut date arrives. A Refreshed Cabin and a Bigger, Better Engine SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Our spies also got close enough to the mule when it was parked to snap a single good photo of the cabin. While we can't see very much, the fact that the entire dashboard and the steering wheel are covered indicates that there will be considerable updates. All new Merc products are getting the MB.OS operating system with its Google and Microsoft-powered AI and large Hyperscreen displays spanning the cabin. Also, note the very sporty bucket seat and red stitching. Like its BMW nemesis, the 393-horsepower X3 M50, AMG's GLC 53 will reportedly gain a much more interesting turbocharged straight-six, ditching the current C63's widely derided 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo, which makes 416 hp in the crossover. The GLC 53 will reportedly combine this with an EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, as in the larger GLE 53 4MATIC+ (which is also about to be facelifted). There, it makes 429 hp, so AMG has room to get bragging rights over the Bimmer once more. Of course, a new X3 M will eventually follow, but most likely, so will a refreshed GLC 63. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Honda’s new E-Clutch on the CB750 Hornet adds convenience while keeping the clutch lever and real rider control intactView the full article

After public outcry due to public land sales being included in the Big, Beautiful Bill, Utah and the feds are quietly and discreetly circumventing public comments on a public land deal in the state.View the full article

With the silhouette of a doorstop, technology borrowed from BMW, Rimac and Hyundai, and production rooted in Saudi Arabia, this strange new electric vehicle prototype is truly one of a kind. Spotted testing in public by Response, the sharp-edged machine comes from Ceer, Saudi Arabia’s first domestic EV brand, founded in 2022 by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. While GM’s largest SUVs are selling like hotcakes in the Middle East, and the UAE still retains its obsession with outrageous gas-powered machines like the Mercedes G63 AMG 6×6, its neighboring country, Saudi Arabia, wants to disrupt the EV space with a "car" that looks unlike anything else on the road. The Retro-Futuristic Designこんな形のクルマ、アリ!? ガルウィングと世界最大のフロントガラス、サウジアラビア発「CEER」が始動https://t.co/DY4y0Vs5M1#新型車 #電気自動車 pic.twitter.com/bboKc3YmHu — レスポンス (@responsejp) January 11, 2026 The first thing you notice about Ceer’s upcoming EV is its shape. The easiest way to describe it is what happens when a DeLorean DMC-12 and a Tesla Cybertruck have a baby. It's wide, aggressive, futuristic, rugged, and has an unmistakable wedge look. Ceer claims the car will feature the world’s largest windshield, and judging by the prototype, that does not seem far-fetched. The glass stretches far back over the cabin and sits almost flat. It looks cool and helps improve airflow – a win-win situation. Then there are the doors, which appear to follow a gullwing or Falcon-style design, much like the Tesla Model X, adding yet another layer of visual theatre to the so-called "car." Built Through Global Partnerships BMW Hyundai Rimac Ceer may be new, but the engineering behind its first EV is not. The brand is a joint venture between Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and Foxconn, with key technology licensed from BMW to speed up development. On the mechanical side, Hyundai Transys is supplying a compact three-in-one electric drive system for certain models, while higher-performance versions are set to benefit from Rimac’s high-output electric drive system. Instead of trying to reinvent everything from scratch, Ceer is stitching together tried and tested components from established players to give itself the upper hand that many young EV brands struggle to achieve. The First Step for Saudi Arabia’s EV Ambitions X @responsejp Saudi Arabia is best known for its oil reserves, but the global shift toward cleaner energy has made change inevitable. Ceer’s unusual prototype offers a glimpse of what that transformation could look like. Ceer will be the country’s first true homegrown EV manufacturer, with plans to build vehicles locally for domestic buyers and select international markets. It also ties into Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to reduce dependence on oil by investing in future-focused sectors like electric mobility. While pricing, range, and performance figures remain under wraps, seeing this wedge-shaped EV testing in the real world suggests that Saudi Arabia is serious about carving out a place in the global electric car conversation – in a way no one has ever done before. View the full article

I’m old enough to remember when Monster Trucks just ran over parked cars, and didn’t fly through the air. Hell, back then nobody would have ever imagined they would be doing backflips and stuff with them. But there were some unique and weird ones back in the day, that’s for sure. In the last 20 years there have been some REALLY strange monster trucks out there so check out the video below and see what you think. Video Description: I looked at the weirdest monster trucks that have ever been created, from Monster Jam trucks, to Bigfoot trucks, and everything in-between. The post Are These The Weirdest Monster Trucks Ever Produced: Taking A Look At Monster Jam Trucks, Big Foot Trucks, And More! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We’ve known for a few days now that Ford has something big planned for the Mustang at the Detroit Auto Show this month. Two new models from the Ford Racing department are expected, with rumors suggesting the Mustang Cobra or Boss nameplates would be making a comeback. Well, we now know what at least one of these models will be, thanks to a new teaser on the official Ford Mustang Instagram page. A more extreme, track-capable Dark Horse will be revealed tomorrow, and the spine-tingling sound bite shared by Ford suggests it’ll be supercharged. An Unmistakable Soundtrack f Other than the exclusive Mustang GTD, the last supercharged Ford Mustang you could buy from the factory was the Shelby GT500. But the current king of the Mustang lineup is the Dark Horse, which uses the brilliant 5.0-liter naturally aspirated Coyote V8 with 500 horsepower. It’s already available with a Handling Package, which adds revised chassis tuning, a performance rear spoiler, and adjustable strut top mounts, among other things. But the new Dark Horse we’ll set eyes on tomorrow, January 15, sounds like a different beast altogether. Ford The supercharger whine is obvious (you can listen to it here), and Ford calls this “the most advanced, powerful, and track-capable Dark Horse ever.” This suggests not only a lot more power, but a series of enhancements to improve the Mustang’s track credentials. Ford already sells a supercharger kit for the Mustang GT and Dark Horse, which boosts outputs to 810 horsepower and 615 lb-ft of torque. Those are the potential figures that are achievable in this track-ready Dark Horse. Ford also has the 5.2-liter Predator supercharged V8 in the Mustang GTD, another possible powertrain choice that can also make over 800 hp. Why Not Call It The Cobra? Ford The new supercharged Mustang would’ve been the ideal opportunity to bring back the Cobra name. Between 1993 and 2004, the supercharged Ford SVT Mustang Cobra from the SN95 generation sat above the GT and Mach 1, until the GT500 supplanted it. This teaser suggests the Cobra name won’t be used, and the new Dark Horse may very well take the place of the previous Shelby GT500, given the performance potential of a supercharged V8. The teaser gives nothing else away, but we can expect the more powerful Dark Horse to be a pricey proposition. The normal Dark Horse already starts at $64,080, while adding the Handling Package adds another $5,495. If you want the supercharger kit, that’s another $10,500. All things considered, this new Dark Horse will likely cost in the region of $80,000 or more. All will be revealed tomorrow. View the full article

IMSA’s Rolex 24 Hours at Daytona is coming up in just over a week, with the Roar Before the 24 coming this weekend. If you aren’t familiar with everything that goes on during the month of January at Daytona, you need to start paying attention. The original Rolex 24 at Daytona is the big show, but the Roar is the last chance for teams to get testing done prior to the big race. It is a lot going on and the racing is great. IMSA is prepping for the race as we speak, and that means some fun content to get us all excited. In the video below, you’ll get a feel for the action at the Rolex 24 because IMSA has put together their favorite finishes of all time. Check it out and let us know what you think, and which one is your favorite. The post The Best Rolex 24 at Daytona Finishes of All Time! IMSA Shares Their Favorite Finishes Of All Time! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Larry Chen has some fun rides, but his 240z is “the one”. What I mean by that is that this is his forever car, the one that will never get sold and sent on its way to a new home. Larry has had this car since his 21st birthday and they have been through a lot together. In this video he’s going to explain the history, walk us through some new mods and updates, along with plans for the future. All this was going down on the car to prep it for the Japanese Classic Car Show in SoCal and also the SEMA Show. The Japanese Classic Car Show is awesome, and I loved going to it when I lived in SoCal, and I’m sure this thing made a splash there. Check it out. The post Larry Chen’s 240Z Final Gets Much Needed Suspension and Interior Upgrades, Plus Other Cool Stuff! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Randy Shipp has a thing for classic Chevrolets. This Corvette is one clean ride that Shipp pilots in Super Street. View the full article