reporter

KTM’s upcoming 1390 Super Duke RR is the clearest sign yet that the brand is on the road to recovery after Bajaj stepped in to save it.View the full article

Group C race cars are some of the coolest road racing machines, so when I saw this video pop up of the Sauber Mercedes C11 that Michael Schumacher used to drive, I had to watch. When I then saw that there was also onboard video from Spa in the rain, I knew I had to check that one out too. You’ll dig this in car footage that’s for sure, so check out both videos below. Video Description: Racing the Ex Michael Schumacher Sauber-Mercedes C11 against other Group-C Legends. Full WET Lap: • Onboard: Mercedes C11 on WET Spa – HQ V8 s… Engine: 5.0L twin turbo V8 Driven by: Kriton Lendoudis The post Very Cool Onboard Video: The Mercedes C11 Did Not Disappoint! Check Out These Racing Highlights on Spa – HQ V8 sound appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Derek is back at it, this time picking up a Cadillac Allante, a rare and cool Cadillac from the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. They were cool cars that were more important to Cadillac than most people probably realize, as they were the predecessor to the Cadillac XLR that was based on a Corvette platform and ultimately would lead to the Cadillac V program becoming what it is. So can Derek get this Allante up and running dependably enough to make it 1,000 miles back home? These things weren’t known for the most reliable and awesome engines, so I hope he got himself a good one. Video Description: This 1990 Cadillac Alante has been parked for a decade or more. The bodies for these cars were made in Italy by Pininfarina and shipped to the USA for final assembly. I’ve never worked on one, or even seen one in person. This will no doubt be a battle! The post ABANDONED RARE Cadillac Allante Parked FOR YEARS! Will It RUN AND DRIVE 1,000 Miles Home? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) has acquired Maple Grove Raceway, securing the future of one of drag racing’s most historic venues. Founded in the early 1960s, Maple Grove Raceway is widely regarded as one of the fastest tracks in the country. Under the leadership of the Koretsky family, the facility was revitalized in recent years through modern improvements while preserving its long-standing family-focused culture. The Koretsky family will remain actively involved during the transition and moving forward. “This is a track with deep roots and an even stronger future,” said IHRA Owner Darryl Cuttell. “Maple Grove represents what racing should be, competitive, welcoming, and centered around racers and families.” The Koretsky family called the move a natural next step. “Maple Grove has always been more than a racetrack, it’s home,” the family spokesman said. “The IHRA shares our values of affordable, fun, and family-centered racing. This new chapter honors Maple Grove’s legacy while positioning it for the future.” According to the announcement, the Koretsky family will work closely with the IHRA through 2026 and beyond. At the time of this report, the Keystone Nationals remains on the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series schedule for September 17-20, 2026 at Maple Grove Raceway in Mohnton, PA. The post IHRA Acquires Maple Grove Raceway appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Royal Enfield Reveals Twin-Engine VITA and Carolina Reaper Customs in Japan Royal Enfield has unveiled two one-off custom motorcycles at the 33rd Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show in Japan, using the global stage to showcase the breadth of its Custom World programme. The twin-engine VITA, developed by Japan’s Custom Works Zon, pairs two 648 cc […] The post A couple of tasty Royal Enfield customs break cover in Japan appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Your Triumph triple doesn’t have to sound like a LAMS bike! So you went and bought a Triumph 660 triple. Smart move. Whether you opted for the naked Trident 660 or the more adventure-focused Tiger Sport 660, the Brits built a genuinely premium middleweight platform that doesn’t feel like a compromise. But here’s the thing. […] The post Yoshimura AT2 Full System for Triumph Trident and Tiger Sport 660 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Recall Round-Up KTM 390 Recall Recall number – REC-006500 Campaign number – 41_2598833 Original published date – 10 December 2025 Supplier details – KTM Australia Pty Ltd Contact name – KTM Australia Customer Service Contact phone – 1800 644 771 Contact email – customerservice-au@ktm.com Contact website – https://www.ktm.com/en-au.html KTM 390 DUKE, ENDURO R, SMC R, […] The post Recall Round-Up: KTM 390s, Husqvarna 401s appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Dale Earnhardt Jr. hypothesized on Tuesday what would happen to the NASCAR Cup Series if the lawsuit brought by 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports reached a settlement and by Thursday the frameworks of the ‘what if’ were made a reality. Speaking with his sister and business partner Kelley Earnhardt-Miller on their podcast, Earnhardt said permanent charters would effectively make the Cup ...Keep readingView the full article

Pumping the Brakes on EVsThe European Commission is reportedly preparing to scrap the 2035 ban on new combustion-engine car sales – a more concrete move than the previous declaration from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. It's being shaped by pressure from automakers, particularly as U.S. import tariffs and intensifying competition from China have made selling EVs more challenging. Speaking at a press conference in Germany, Manfred Weber, president of the European People’s Party (EPP) — the largest political group in the European Parliament — said, “Next Tuesday the European Commission will be putting forward a clear proposal to abolish the ban on combustion engines.” That said, the announcement will be made on December 16. Mercedes-AMG Munich and Stuttgart SmileAccording to Reuters, the proposal would be a major win for Germany, home to automakers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz. These brands continue to rely heavily on high-performance internal-combustion models like the BMW M4, which typically produce higher emissions than most mass-market vehicles. If the proposal is approved, enthusiasts may also have reason to celebrate, as many beloved performance models – like the Hemi V8-powered Dodge Challenger – have been discontinued in recent years due to electrification targets. However, a reversal could prove costly for brands that fully aligned their strategies with the 2035 ban. Volvo, for example, once offered a wide range of powertrains, but committed to producing mostly electrified cars by 2030. If a key market changes course, companies like Volvo may be forced to rethink their long-term product plans yet again, potentially resulting in substantial financial consequences. Meanwhile, Chinese EV makers are becoming increasingly competitive, offering advanced technology at relatively lower price points. BYD, in particular, has gained global momentum and even challenges Tesla in overall EV sales, with models like the Atto 3 gaining traction in Europe. Tesla Climate Goals Stay on the TableThe proposal, however, would not abandon emissions goals altogether. Weber emphasized that the plan includes a target to cut vehicle emissions by 90% from 2035 onward – short of a full ban but still a significant reduction. He also ruled out the possibility of pushing for a total ban by 2040. A future that is not exclusively EV-focused could reopen the door to alternative powertrains, echoing Toyota’s multi-pathway approach. Toyota has been cautious with EV adoption (the company only offers one EV model in the U.S. called the bZ), while investing heavily in hybrids and hydrogen fuel cells. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who has argued that EVs have yet to meet industry expectations, has also pointed to synthetic fuels, an area Porsche has actively explored. Here in the U.S., there is no nationwide ban on combustion-engine vehicles, though states like California aim to mandate zero-emission new-car sales by 2035. BMW View the full article

Check out our third gallery of photos below, and remember we’ve got a link to anything you might have missed already too! Check them all out and if you click on a photo it will expand and you can swipe through them all! (Words and Photos by Chad Reynolds) We’ve got photos from the 2025 PRI Show in Indy right here! Man this place is full of epic stuff that I’d really love to see under the tree, or under the hood in 2024. The PRI Show is where everyone that’s anyone seemed to be on hand checking out parts, making sponsors happy, signing autographs, partying at the local bars and just having too much fun all around. It’s our favorite trade show of the year and we are having a great time. There are tons of things to see and even more importantly, awesome people to talk to. Check out our continuing coverage below, we’ve got more galleries coming this week as well! We are in Indianapolis for the 2025 PRI Show and man there is lots of cool stuff here as usual. Thursday we got to the show, judged the featured products, saw some awesome stuff we’d never seen before, and then wandered around shooting some photos. Then we attempted a more stuctured approach to our coverage and went aisle by aisle in search of all things cool. Check back tomorrow for even more coverage as we’ve got all kinds of cool stuff we know you will dig. The Performance Racing Industry show is one that any racer would love to attend. Unlike the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where every kind of automotive aftermarket part is on display, the PRI Show features only racing-related parts. If the parts aren’t related to the motorsports world, you won’t find them here. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE PHOTOS WE’VE ALREADY POSTED! The post Our PRI Show Photos Continue: We’ve Shared A Bunch Of Photos From The PRI Show, And Here Are Even More Cool Cars And Parts! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Chevrolet vs Ford, a rivalry that is as old as these two companies. Of course Mopar is in that fight as well, but in this video it is all about the big two going head to head in a Stay Tuned small block shootout. This is no high dollar big power build shootout, but rather low budget hot rod engines where bang for your buck is the goal. So do you think this latest small block Ford build can compete with the 327 Chevy they built? Let’s see in the video below. Video Description: This week on Stay Tuned, Tony Angelo and the Stay Tuned dudes set out to see if they could build a nasty little small block Ford engine for Declan’s new ’68 Mustang project. Question is, will it compete dollar for dollar with the killer little 327 they build a few years ago? Can you make affordable horsepower as easily with a Ford as you can with a Chevy? Stay Tuned to find out! The post Ford Vs Chevy Small Block Shootout! This Budget Power Small Block Test Proves You Can Do It With Both, But Which One Is Best? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Land Rover Defender prices have climbed so far that even pre-Defender models are getting treated like blue-chip collectibles. Case in point is this 1989 Land Rover 90 V8 County Station Wagon being offered in the U.K. for £49,950 (around $66,500). Sold new by Dutton Forshaw in Aylesbury and now with just two owners and 85,854 miles, it is being marketed as a “superbly original” truck that has spent more than a decade tucked away in a heated garage as part of a classic collection. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Original V8 County, Lightly UsedAlthough it predates the Defender badge, this is the template everyone thinks of: short-wheelbase 90, Ermine White paint, alpine windows, grey County cloth and a carb-fed 3.5-liter Rover V8 under the hood. Power goes through a manual gearbox and permanent four-wheel drive, with the ad emphasizing that the truck still looks and feels like a lightly used working Land Rover rather than a freshly restored showpiece. Documentation includes the current V5, MOT through September 2026, original owner’s manuals and a stack of service invoices. For buyers who spend time scrolling older listings like this 1986 Land Rover Defender 110 for sale, the appeal is obvious: it is rare to find a V8 County that has not been beaten up, modified or worked to death. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Preserved Rather Than ModifiedUnlike many classic 90s that have been rebuilt into overland rigs, this one is presented largely as Land Rover intended, right down to its period-correct trim. PistonHeads notes it has covered only a couple of thousand miles since 2013, and photos show straight panels, clean seams and an interior that lines up with the claimed history. That makes it a different proposition from heavily updated restomods or newer factory-built specials, and closer in spirit to stock later examples such as this 2000 Land Rover Defender 90 listing. The question is less whether it looks the part, and more whether a buyer is willing to use it once they have paid collector money for it. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Pricey In A World Of Defender AlternativesAt nearly £50,000, this 90 V8 County sits above well-used V8s and below re-engineered or “Works V8” builds, in a market where almost anything shaped like an old Defender seems to find a home. It also has to live alongside a whole wave of reinterpretations and imitators. For buyers who want the real thing, the premium here buys originality, paperwork and a truck that appears to have survived three and a half decades without being turned into a farm hack or a trail toy. Whether that makes sense as a purchase depends on how much value you put on stepping into an old Land Rover that still feels close to the way it left the showroom in 1989. View the full article

The Japanese custom scene has always marched to the beat of its own drum—and nowhere is this more evident than at the annual Yokohama Hot Rod Custom Show. Colloquially known as the Mooneyes Show, and hosted in the Pacifico Yokohama convention hall on the first weekend in December, the HRCS is a one-... View the full article

While long term projects can be fun and rewarding, there is also nothing like a short rehab on a project that makes big progress and has big rewards. Not everyone can afford the time, money, or space that a long term project requires. So when you can spend a couple of days to a couple of weeks doing a rebuild that makes a huge difference for your project, it can be seriously rewarding, AND inspiring. And inspiration makes us want to do more with our projects and I totally approve of that. So watch the video below to see just what Mortske had to do to this cool squarebody C10 to make a big difference in just one week. Video Description: Let’s drag this 1975 Chevrolet C10 longbed into the shop and see if we can bring it back to life after being abandoned for 9 years and make it a helluva lot cooler along the way by shortening the bed and lowering the suspension! If you’d like to own this truck in the as shown condition it is available for $5,000 CASH! As always, thanks for watching! The post One Week Squarebody Rehab: How To Transform A Squarebody C10 Into A Shortbed ON THE CHEAP In Just One Week! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A Single-Owner Collection Heading to ParisCar collections are as varied as the stories behind them. Some focus on a single era, others chase motorsport legends, while a select few quietly assemble the most significant badges a brand has ever worn. With so much history tucked away in garages around the world, it’s hard to pinpoint which ones really are special. A Mercedes-Benz collection in Europe, however, stands out for its exotic selection of cars – and it’s about to cross the auction block next year. RM Sotheby’s has announced that a single-owner Mercedes-Benz collection will headline its 2026 Paris auction, set for January 28 at the Salles du Carrousel inside the Louvre Palace. The owner’s identity is still under wraps, though a bit of a backgrounder was shared: a Europe-based Mercedes enthusiast who zeroed in on milestone Mercedes models, not just numbers. RM Sotheby's View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Inside the Silver Star CollectionKnown as the Silver Star Collection, the six-car lineup reads like a greatest-hits album from Stuttgart. It’s led by two Mercedes-Benz 300 SLs that bookend the model’s production run: a 1954 Gullwing from the first year of production, one of just 167 cars built, and a 1962 Roadster from the final stretch, one of the final 182 cars made. Backing them up are two modern-day gullwing successors: a 2013 SLS AMG Coupe and its matching SLS AMG Roadster, both barely broken in and spec’d to match. Completing the lineup is a 2010 SLR McLaren Roadster – not the rarest, but it's one of just 520 ever made – and a 1969 280 SL Pagoda, restored to exacting factory standards. Taken together, these cars chart Mercedes-Benz’s journey from post-war motorsport innovation to the era of modern supercar performance. RM Sotheby's View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Expected to Fetch MillionsUsing current exchange rates, the estimated hammer price for each vehicle gives you an idea of how valuable the Silver Star Collection is. The 1954 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing is estimated to be the most expensive of the pack, with a value ranging from $1.46 million to $2.05 million. The 1962 300 SL Roadster, meanwhile, is expected to fetch between $1.40 million and $1.76 million. The modern halo cars weren’t as expensive as the historic ones. The 2013 SLS AMG Coupe is estimated to go for $281,000 to $339,000, while the SLS AMG Roadster will be close behind at $246,000 to $304,000. The 2010 SLR McLaren Roadster is expected to reach a hammer price between $439,000 and $556,000. The most approachable of the bunch is the restored 1969 280 SL Pagoda, valued between $140,000 and $164,000. As mentioned, all six cars will cross the block on January 28, 2026. RM Sotheby's View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Past Problems Point to Oil SolutionsGeneral Motors has faced substantial engine reliability challenges with its current V8 lineup, leading to multiple recalls affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles. The primary culprit behind these failures has been identified as inadequate lubrication in critical engine components. When thin oil struggles to maintain proper film strength under high temperatures and loads, metal-to-metal contact occurs, resulting in premature wear and catastrophic engine damage. GM's response to these warranty claims has been straightforward. Service bulletins now recommend switching to higher viscosity lubricants in affected engines, effectively solving many of the problems that plagued earlier production runs. This practical fix has proven so effective that engineers developing the next generation V8 family are reportedly planning to specify thicker oils from the factory rather than waiting for issues to emerge. The Gen 6 pushrod-driven small block V8s will debut with the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500. I Do Cars/YouTube Community Speaks Through Polling DataGM Authority recently surveyed its readership about what oil weight should be used in upcoming V8 engines. The results were unambiguous and decisive. Readers want GM to prioritize engine longevity by specifying heavier-weight oils from day one. The overwhelming response suggests that enthusiasts have strong opinions about the proper solution for the L87 V8 reliability woes. This community sentiment reflects a broader frustration with modern engineering priorities that seem to sacrifice durability for efficiency improvements. The poll essentially became a dipstick survey on whether GM should continue chasing every last fraction of fuel economy, or build engines that can actually survive their warranty periods without expensive repairs. Regulatory Changes Enable Better EngineeringUltra-thin engine oils became industry standard primarily because they reduce internal friction, delivering small but measurable fuel economy gains. However, these efficiency benefits come at a steep cost when engines operating under real-world conditions experience accelerated wear. The molecular structure of low viscosity lubricants simply cannot provide adequate protection in high stress situations. Recent relaxation of CAFE standards may finally allow manufacturers to abandon this compromise. Engineers can now select oil weights based on what actually protects engines rather than what looks best in EPA testing cycles. This regulatory shift could mark the beginning of a new era where reliability trumps regulatory optimization. View the full article

Six Cylinders Are Cool AgainWith emissions regulations beginning to ease in certain markets, some automakers are reversing course and returning to larger-displacement engines. Mercedes-Benz, for example, is reportedly preparing to drop the much-criticized inline-four hybrid setup used in the C63 in favor of a more traditional inline-six. Maserati now appears to be following a similar path, having discontinued its turbocharged four-cylinder engine in favor of a V6 for the 2026 Grecale. The V6 in question is Maserati’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo Nettuno engine, a powertrain originally developed to power the MC20, as well as the new MCPura, in its battle against rivals such as the Ferrari 296 GTB and McLaren Artura. The engine in the Grecale Modena, however, has been detuned to produce 385 horsepower, which is 137 less than the more potent version found in the range-topping Grecale Trofeo. Maserati The Strategy ShiftNevertheless, the new V6 still represents a clear step up from the outgoing 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four mild-hybrid engine, which, depending on trim, delivered either 296 or 325 horsepower. Meanwhile, the Grecale Trofeo carries over unchanged for the 2026 model year. Positioned against rivals such as the BMW X3 and the Porsche Macan, the Maserati Grecale features an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission and all-wheel drive (AWD) across the entire lineup. With this configuration, the Grecale Modena accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds, while the Trofeo completes the same sprint 1.4 seconds quicker. While Maserati and Mercedes-Benz experimented with downsized, greener four-cylinder powertrains, not all automakers embraced the trend. BMW, for instance, largely resisted the shift by retaining its inline-six engines in performance-focused M models such as the M3 and M4. Maserati Refocused on PerformanceOn the electrified side of the lineup, the all-electric Maserati Grecale Folgore reportedly gains an additional 30 miles of range thanks to a new all-wheel-drive disconnect feature, bringing its estimated total to 275 miles. The Folgore uses a dual-motor setup to generate 542 horsepower and 604 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to sprint from zero to 60 mph in around 4.0 seconds, roughly matching the Genesis GV60 Performance. In the U.S., the Grecale Modena equipped with the detuned V6 starts at approximately $84,500, making it notably more affordable than the outgoing four-cylinder hybrid variants. The higher-performance Grecale Trofeo begins at $117,500, while the all-electric Grecale Folgore sits slightly higher at roughly $119,900. Maserati View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

If you want the rugged crossover experience without driving something big and bulky, the Subaru Crosstrek has always been a top choice. It’s got standard all-wheel drive and doesn’t look like it’ll be out of place on a dirt road. If you want to get behind the wheel of a 2026 Crosstrek relatively affordably this month, Subaru is running a pair of lease deals on its smallest crossover. These Subaru Crosstrek leasing offers apply to the cheapest gas and hybrid trims, so here’s how much you’ll pay, plus a look at how it compares to the Toyota Corolla Cross and Honda HR-V. This Month’s Subaru Crosstrek Lease Deals Kristen Brown The Subaru Crosstrek’s lease price starts at $275 per month for the base non-hybrid model. This is a 36-month lease with $3,274 due at signing, and excludes tax, title, licensing, and registration costs. Subaru includes 10,000 miles per year, and exceeding this limit will cost $0.15 per mile. The other 2026 Subaru Crosstrek lease offer is for the Sport Hybrid. We found this model to be a vast improvement over previous electrified Crosstreks, but it costs a lot more than the non-hybrid model. Expect to pay $359 per month for the Sport Hybrid over 36 months, with $3,859 down. Both these lease deals are based on you taking delivery by January 2, 2026. These particular lease deals for the Subaru Crosstrek are exclusive to California, so be sure to check Subaru’s special offers page for deals in your area. If you want to buy a 2026 Subaru Crosstrek instead of leasing one, it’ll cost you $26,995 for the base gas model and $33,995 for the Sport Hybrid. The most expensive model is the Limited Hybrid, which goes for $34,995. Related: I Drove the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness, Here's My Honest Review Powertrain and Features Subaru The base Subaru Crosstrek has a 2.5-liter boxer-four engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. AWD is standard and a CVT is the only transmission choice. Performance is adequate rather than sparkling, and the most efficient models get 26/33/29 mpg city/highway/combined. The hybrid has the same 2.5L engine, but the electric punch pushes the output up to 194 hp combined. It gets AWD and its own version of a CVT, but the main advantage is that efficiency improves to 36/36/36 mpg. The base Crosstrek comes with the following standard features: 17-inch alloy wheelsLED headlightsCloth upholsteryDual-zone automatic climate controlDual seven-inch multimedia systemFour-speaker sound systemAdaptive cruise controlLane departure warningThe Hybrid Sport is not only more efficient, but better specified, too. It adds larger 18-inch alloys, LED fog lights, a power moonroof, an 11.6-inch touchscreen with navigation, a six-speaker sound system, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. We would have liked to see Subaru offer the hybrid in a lower trim level, though. Related: Subaru Beats Toyota, Honda, BMW, and Porsche in Consumer Reports’ 2025 Brand Rankings Comparison With Honda and Toyota Rivals 2026 Honda HR-V Sport View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Including the initial payment, the 36-month lease for the base Subaru Crosstrek works out to $13,174. That’s almost exactly the same as the 2026 Honda HR-V AWD’s lease, which costs $13,223 over 36 months—Honda’s lease is for 39 months, though, so this amount excludes the three additional payments. Toyota undercuts both, with a 36-month lease cost of $12,963 for the base Corolla Cross L. The Subaru is more powerful than the Toyota, though. If you’re leasing the non-hybrid Crosstrek, its lease price is in line with these key rivals, plus you get the distinctive, rugged Subaru design that so many love. We have reservations about the Crosstrek Hybrid, though; it’s a lot more expensive than the Corolla Cross Hybrid, and the Toyota is more efficient, too, at 42 mpg combined. If you’re going the non-hybrid route, the Subaru is well worth a look. View the full article

Familiar Bones, Carefully UpdatedThe Toyota Hilux entered its ninth generation last month, but it wasn’t sitting atop a brand-new platform. Toyota stuck with the IMV architecture, a body-on-frame setup that’s been around since 2004. The company said it’s been heavily updated and reinforced, but one can’t deny that it’s an aging underpinning. Toyota could have gone with the newer TNGA-F platform – the same one used by the Tacoma, Land Cruiser, and Lexus GX in the US – but it didn’t. Instead, it picked what actually works for Hilux buyers worldwide, not just chasing the latest tech. Toyota Why Toyota Passed on TNGA-FSpeaking to carsales, Toyota Motor Asia regional chief engineer Anyarat Sutthibenjakul laid out four key reasons for sticking with IMV: quality, durability, and reliability (QDR), off-road performance, total cost of ownership, and safety performance. The biggest factor, according to Sutthibenjakul, was the total cost of ownership. She explained that many Hilux markets are developing countries where pricing and serviceability matter more than the latest platform. Of course, moving the Hilux to TNGA-F would have increased its weight, complexity, and cost, with little benefit to buyers. “When we talk about total cost of ownership, there are so many things inside, including the upfront pricing and serviceability, the maintenance, the downtime,” she told the Australian publication. Toyota began studying the new Hilux platform around four years ago, with the decision to uprate IMV finalized about two and a half years ago. Truth be told, merging global pickups onto a single platform would have made things easier and, quite frankly, would have made more sense in terms of costs. However, Sutthibenjakul said that wasn’t the priority. “So we keep the optimum platform for customers, not for ourselves.” Toyota Change Is Very Much on the TableEven though the IMV platform stays for now, Toyota isn’t planning to stand still for the next decade. Sutthibenjakul admitted that new emissions rules and electrification could push bigger changes within five years, maybe even sooner. While America has totally abandoned diesel powertrains for passenger pickups, it remains for the Hilux, with the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel continuing on, now paired with mild-hybrid assistance on some variants and markets. But Toyota is also actively studying HEV and PHEV options, alongside confirmed BEV and fuel-cell versions due as early as 2026. Even the switch to a full-time 4x4 drivetrain is also being mulled by the automaker. “No one knows that this platform will last for five or 10 years,” Sutthibenjakul said, adding that Toyota is closely monitoring markets and regulations. In short, IMV stays for now, but the door to a bigger shift is very much open. Toyota View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A barely driven 2025 Ferrari 12Cilindri coupe with just 214 miles on the odometer is being offered for $699,900 through Ferrari Dallas on duPont Registry, giving buyers a chance to skip the allocation process for Maranello’s newest front-engined V12 GT. The car arrives as the spiritual successor to the 812 Superfast and extends a bloodline that runs from 1960s grand tourers through mid-engined icons like the Dino. First-Year V12 GT, Loaded With OptionsUnder the hood, the 12Cilindri uses a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 that revs past 9,000 rpm and sends more than 800 horsepower to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. In this configuration, Ferrari quotes supercar-level acceleration and a top speed beyond 200 mph, but the 12Cilindri is still positioned as a long-legged GT with a front-mounted engine and usable luggage space under a hatchback-style rear. The pricing on this car reflects both its delivery mileage and a heavy options list, a familiar pattern for early-build front-engined V12s; shoppers comparing it with established V12 coupes, such as a clean 2019 Ferrari 812 Superfast, will find this 12Cilindri sitting firmly at the top of the current GT hierarchy. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Stealth Spec With Yellow HighlightsThe example at Ferrari Dallas wears a two-tone Nero finish with Orbit Gray Gloss wheels, yellow carbon-ceramic brake calipers and black ceramic exhaust tips. Inside, the cabin is trimmed in black leather and Alcantara with yellow striping and stitching, plus matching yellow seatbelts and prancing horse headrest embroidery. The car is fitted with adaptive cruise control via a front radar system and other driver-assistance features, adding a layer of modern usability to a layout that still emphasizes a low cowl, long hood and compact glasshouse. It is a restrained but carefully coordinated spec that leans into the 12Cilindri’s role as a high-speed grand tourer rather than a track-only flagship. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article New V12 Halo In A Hybrid AgeThe 12Cilindri arrives at a time when Ferrari is rapidly expanding its hybrid range and preparing for its first EV, with plug-in models like the 2025 Ferrari 296 GTS showing how much performance the brand can extract from downsized turbocharged engines and electric assistance. Against that backdrop, a naturally aspirated V12 GT has extra symbolic weight, representing continuity with front-engined legends just as regulations and customer tastes push the lineup in new directions. For buyers who want to secure one of the earliest examples without waiting on a dealer list, this 214-mile 12Cilindri offers a shortcut straight to Ferrari’s latest twelve-cylinder flagship. View the full article

Audi's Long History with WagonsAmong its German rivals, Audi was the first to build station wagons. Its first was the F103 Variant, a three-door wagon sold from 1965 to 1972. It was then followed up by the Audi 80 Estate, better known in America as the Fox Wagon. The Avant name would first appear in 1977 in the C2 100 (the 5000 in the US), although that version wasn't sold stateside, and it was really more of a five-door liftback than a wagon. The first true Avant wagon came in the form of the C3 100 and 200, again called the 5000 in this part of the world. The smaller Audi 80 would also eventually get a wagon version, and those models would later evolve into the A4 Avant, A5 Avant, and A6 Avant. Let's not forget the S and RS models, too. But if there's one thing missing in the lineup, it's a full-size wagon. You'd think that one of the pioneers of the segment would've built one by now. Well, it seems that the folks from Ingolstadt toyed with that idea about 25 years ago. Meet the AvantissimoBack in 2001, Audi revealed the Avantissimo Concept. Billed as the ultimate Avant at the time, it was about the size of what would later become the second-generation A8 that ran from 2002 to 2010. The concept was penned by Frank Lamberty, who would later design the first-gen R8 alongside Walter de Silva. The car measured 199 inches long, not that far off the production D3 A8. We can also see some styling cues that would later be applied to the A8 for the new millennium, namely the character line that starts from the bottom of the front bumper, going up through the fender to form the character line. Its headlights appear inspired by the TT, but eventually slimmed down for production. The same went for the low, long, and wide stance. As for the rear, it looks like it's half of what the real car's wraparound units look like. Obviously, the real deal lost the practical body style, which is a shame. Tech (and Lux) for DaysIt also had tech features that eventually made their way to the sedan. The main highlight was the MMI that would become the norm for the rest of Audi's lineup. Anyone who's owned an Audi from 2002 to the late 2010s will recognize that dial-and-button arrangement. In terms of functionality, it controlled the entertainment system, vehicle info, communications, and connectivity. As for luxuries, it's a combination of light cream and brown to give a lighter feel. The full-length panoramic glass roof further adds to that. Wood finishes are seen on the center console, as well as on the back of the front seats. There are even captain's chairs back there, making the most of its lengthy wheelbase. Plus, there's a pair of screens at the back to keep rear occupants entertained. Other neat features? Obviously, there's loads of room in the cargo bay, and it's made even more flexible with undertray storage, as well as a sliding tray to make loading easier. Packing a PunchIn a way, the Avantissimo previewed another Audi model. Under the hood of the concept car was a twin-turbo 4.2-liter V8 mated to a six-speed automatic. Output was rated at 424 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, strong numbers even by today's standards. Sounds familiar? That same engine wound up in the RS6 with even more power. The end result was 444 hp, 20 more than the concept, although there's less torque at 413 lb-ft. The RS6 then used a five-speed automatic, although the six-speed would be applied to the A8. What Might Have BeenUltimately, the Avantissimo didn't reach production. But had Audi built it for real, it would've been the only wagon among its peers. BMW didn't respond to the concept, and neither did Mercedes-Benz. Something like an A8 Avant sounds like a neat idea, but a limited niche that probably won't see a lot of buyers. But we'll never know unless someone takes that leap, right? That brings us neatly to the Genesis G90 Wingback Concept. It follows the same blueprint as the Avantissimo as it's based on a flagship sedan, packs a punchy engine, and looks the business. The difference is that the Genesis appears closer to production, and there's an actual desire from the company to build it. Of course, we'll only believe it once it's sitting in showrooms. Audi View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

TVS boss Gaurav Gupta has been appointed VP of IMMA, showing just how big a role India plays in the global motorcycle industry. View the full article

With three electric motors, a twin-turbo 4.0-liter flat-plane crank V8 spinning to 10,000 rpm, and a whopping 907 horsepower on tap, the Lamborghini Temerario is more than extreme enough, right? Not according to the people at 1016 Industries, who have decided to give the mid-engine supercar as aggressive a visual presence as its powertrain suggests, and from an aesthetic perspective at least, creating the STO variant Sant'Agata won't. The Florida-based tuner has widened the baby Lambo, but also given it elements that call to mind that most extreme of Huracán variants, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. Wings and Wideness In Carbon Fiber 1016 Industries/Instagram On the fenders, 1016 Industries' new kit, called the Vision Widebody and available in numerous materials including carbon fiber, adds louvered front wheel arch extensions, with negative space behind the wheels in line with the standard car's side air intakes, which have been revised to include arrowhead-shaped elements to draw the eye to the flared rear arches. Ahead of the front wheel arch extensions, the body kit features upright intakes in line with the headlights, while the lower fascia is adorned with a new splitter that will make navigating speed bumps even more nightmarish. 1016 Industries/Instagram View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The new hood is aggressively vented, and the rear is made more attention-grabbing with a fixed rear wing that calls to mind the Aventador SVJ. Naturally, the diffuser couldn't be left stock, and 1016's stylists appear to have taken inspiration from the Huracán Tecnica for their design. A carbon fiber snorkel reminiscent of the one on the 1016 Industries Revuelto, complete with new engine covers, completes the bodywork upgrades. Finally, a set of aftermarket wheels will make this supercar feel at home on the floors of the SEMA Show. Lamborghini Itself Will Make the Temerario More Extreme 1016 Industries/Instagram If you'd rather wait for the Temerario to be enhanced from the factory (and have no interest in the Alleggerita package at approximately $45,000), Sant'Agata itself has designs on an even more exciting V8 supercar, with Lamborghini's Chief Technology Officer hinting earlier in the year that a rear-wheel-drive Temerario may be in the works. Rouven Mohr also suggested that a non-hybrid Temerario could come into play, although this is unlikely, and he told Top Gear last year that making more than a thousand horsepower with the Temerario's powertrain would be easy. Beyond that, we know that the Temerario's power plant has been developed to last at least two life cycles, which means that after the inevitable special editions see the supercar out somewhere down the road, its successor will continue to have V8 power. In the meantime, 1016 Industries is here to satisfy those who crave maximum attention, though it should be noted that even without any performance upgrades, the Vision Widebody kit likely more than doubles the cost of that Alleggerita lightweight package mentioned above. View the full article

The Microcar ResurgenceOne could say that microcars boomed in the postwar years in Europe. The desire for personal mobility was strong, and the 1956 Suez Crisis, which drove up fuel prices, helped their cause. Also called bubble cars, notable examples include the Messerschmitt KR200, the Peel P50, and the BMW Isetta. Microcars eventually fell out of favor, but they would remain popular in France as Voitures Sans Permis or VSC, literally meaning car without a license. These VSCs can be driven with just a permit for drivers as young as 14 years old. There were other microcars made over the decades, but it seems that the 2020s have seen a resurgence of the genre. Heck, the President was even charmed by a different kind of microcar, namely kei cars from Japan. One could say it's a good indicator of growing interest in small, efficient, and characterful cars in this part of the world. We've covered five potential kei cars that could thrive in America, but what does Europe have to offer? Here are five prime examples — and one of them is coming to the US, so you can bet these can be driven here. Citroën AmiDo note that three of the five cars in this list are made by Stellantis. The first (alphabetically at least) is the Citroën Ami. Introduced in 2019, it measures just 95 inches long, shorter than the wheelbase of a Mini 3-Door. The body is made of ABS plastic, and it actually uses a spaceframe chassis. Citroën even made an off-road version called the Buggy. The Ami is powered by a single electric motor that musters 8 hp and, if you're curious, has a limited top speed of 28 mph. With a battery capacity of 5.5 kWh, it can go 47 miles on a single charge. Obviously, it's no long-distance cruiser, but it's an interesting "last mile" transport around the city. Fiat TopolinoThe Topolino is the twin of the Citroën Ami and is also made by Stellantis. It has the same spaceframe chassis and ABS plastic bodywork, but it's aesthetically different. Infused with Italian charm, it takes inspiration from the original Fiat 500, adapting the look for its front and rear fascias. Like the Ami, it's powered by a single 8 hp motor that gets energy from a 5.5 kWh battery. Range is also the same as its French sibling, so it's an urban runabout at best. We don't have to put the Topolino on our wishlist for long, though, as it's been confirmed that it's coming to the US. MicrolinoIt may look like an Isetta, but the Microlino isn't a BMW product. It does have the Bavarian spirit, from its bubble shape to its front-opening door. And while its inspiration is German, the microcar actually hails from Italy. The modern interpretation is also 9.2 inches longer than the Isetta at 99.2 inches. One could say that the Microlino is more usable than the Ami and Topolino. For starters, there's an optional 15 kWh battery aside from the 10.5 kWh pack and the standard 6 kWh unit. That means it has more range, with the 15 kWh version getting up to 128 miles. You won't be breaking highway speed limits with it, as it has a top speed of 56 mph. Opel Rocks ElectricAnd we're back to Stellantis. The Opel Rocks Electric is the third triplet of the Stellantis microcar platform. Unlike the Fiat, the Opel version is a direct rebadge, though. It's only sold in two countries, though, namely Germany and The Netherlands. The rest of Europe gets the Ami and Topolino. Specs? It's literally the same as the Citroën and Fiat. Not that we're complaining, though. Renault TwizySadly, Renault no longer makes the Twizy. Then again, it's the oldest of the bunch as it reached showrooms in 2012 and production lasted until 2023. It's wild, wacky, and attention-grabbing; you can count on the French to come up with something like this. At 92 inches long and 48.6 inches wide, it's even a touch smaller than the Stellantis trio. It came with a 6.1 kWh battery and a range of 57 miles, so cross-country trips are out of the picture. It made more power than an Ami, though, with 17.5 hp sent to the rear wheels. The Mobilize Duo has since replaced the Twizy, but the Renault trumps it in charm. View the 18 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Although the Honda Accord has faced declining sales this year, it’s still one of the best-selling midsize sedans in the country. If not for a Toyota Camry-sized problem, the Accord would have no rivals to worry about on the sales charts. If you want to get behind the wheel of a new Accord, Honda has a couple of lease deals running this December. The cheapest of these makes the Accord marginally more affordable to lease than its Toyota rival, so let’s take a closer look at the numbers. Related: 2025 Toyota Camry Vs. Honda Accord: 5 Major Differences This Month’s Honda Accord Lease Deals Honda The Honda Accord’s lease price starts at $229 per month over 36 months, with $3,999 due at signing. That’s for the 2025 Honda LX, and includes a loyalty discount of $1,500. This discount applies to owners of any 2010 or newer Honda. Excluded from the deal are tax, title, licensing, and registration costs. Including the initial payment, this deal will cost you $12,243 over three years, whereas a base Camry will cost $13,763 to lease over the same period. All Honda Accord lease offers this month include 10,000 annual miles, with a fee of $0.20 per mile if you exceed this limit. These Honda Accord leasing deals are available in the following states: AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, HI, IA, IN, KY, MA, ME, MI, MN, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, PA, RI, SD, UT, VT, and WI. If your state isn’t mentioned here, you can check Honda’s website for deals in your area. Honda If you don’t qualify for the loyalty discount, the same LX trim will cost $269 per month over 36 months, with $4,199 due at signing. The Accord Sport Hybrid is also available to lease for $309/month with $3,899 down, while excluding the loyalty discount from this derivative works out to $349/month with $4,099 down. These Honda Accord lease deals all expire on January 5, 2026. If you’d prefer to buy instead of lease a 2025 Honda Accord, the prices are as follows: LX: $28,295SE: $30,560Sport Hybrid: $33,655EX-L Hybrid: $34,940Sport-L Hybrid: $35,375Touring Hybrid: $39,300As you can see, only two Accord trims are non-hybrids. Related: 2025 Honda Accord Vs. 2025 Hyundai Sonata: 5 Major Differences Powertrain and Features Honda The older 2.0-liter turbocharged Accord is gone, leaving two efficient but less exciting powertrains. The first is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque; it directs power to the front wheels via a CVT and gets up to 32 mpg combined. The more expensive hybrid has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder mill which is hooked up to electric motors. This setup produces 204 hp combined and forms part of Honda’s two-motor hybrid system. With this system, the electric propulsion motor drives the wheels directly most of the time, with the engine acting as a range-extender in the background to provide additional energy. The gas engine can also power the wheels, specifically at faster highway speeds. Although there’s a lot happening, the driving experience is smooth and the Accord Hybrid can get up to 48 mpg combined. The base LX that’s featured in this month’s lease deal does without fancy upholstery, a larger touchscreen, or even a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Fortunately, it’s as refined as the pricier trims and still comes with the following standard features: Cloth upholsteryAir conditioningLED exterior lightingSeven-inch touchscreenFour-speaker sound system10.2-inch digital instrument clusterAdaptive cruise controlForward collision warningTraffic jam assistLane-keep assist systemThe Sport Hybrid adds items like a power moonroof, heated front seats, wireless operation for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a blind-spot information system. The much pricier trims not part of December’s lease deals have leather upholstery, heated rear seats, and high-end sound systems, among other items. Related: 2025 Honda Accord: 4 reasons to love it, 2 reasons to think twice Final ThoughtsIn its current form, the Honda Accord is overshadowed by the newer Toyota Camry’s sharper styling and more powerful hybrid powertrain. But to write the Accord off would be foolish. Many may prefer its restrained, elegant shape, and although a manual Accord is long gone, the Honda impresses with its precise handling and comfortable ride. It’s also got plenty of passenger space. This month’s lease deals make it simple to get behind the wheel of an Accord, which has earned its place close to the top of the midsize category. *Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The information presented herein is based on manufacturer-provided lease offer information, which is subject to frequent change and may vary based on location, creditworthiness, and other factors. We are not a party to any lease agreements and assume no liability for the terms, conditions, availability, or accuracy of any lease offers mentioned. All terms, including but not limited to pricing, mileage allowances, and residual values, require direct verification with an authorized local OEM dealership. This article does not constitute financial advice or an endorsement of any particular lease or vehicle. View the full article