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Jeep Makes Room in the BudgetThe Jeep Wrangler posted an 11-percent year-over-year sales increase in 2025, but its longtime archnemesis, the Ford Bronco, has been steadily closing the gap – ending the year significantly closer to the Wrangler than in their 2024 sales matchup. Now, Stellantis appears to be looking to sustain that momentum by cutting prices. According to a report from Bloomberg, the four-door Wrangler Sport S now starts at $42,495, a figure that already includes the $1,995 destination fee. That price represents a $1,350 reduction compared to the previous model year. It also slightly undercuts the Bronco Big Bend, which carries a starting price of $42,990. Cole Attisha Using Gemini 3 Pro and Adobe Lightroom Reworking the Option SheetJeep has also reduced the cost of certain options. A bundle that includes LED lighting, all-terrain tires, and a heated steering wheel and seats is now priced at $5,000 – down sharply from $9,400. Meanwhile, the Sky Slider, a motorized canvas roof designed for open-air off-roading, is now offered for just $995 from roughly $4,000. According to Bob Broderdorf, Jeep’s chief executive officer, the latest pricing strategy is intended to reinforce the brand’s core identity and appeal. “We did this on every car,” Broderdorf told the publication. “This is us giving back to the customer the things that make Jeep Jeep.” The timing of the price reductions appears fitting, especially as the average transaction price of a new vehicle in the United States has climbed to around $50,000. Whether this revised strategy will strengthen the Wrangler’s position – and perhaps slow the Bronco’s rapid gains – remains to be seen. However, moving forward, the Wrangler, along with the Grand Cherokee, will no longer be offered with Stellantis’ 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. Jeep A Bet on AffordabilityFor reference, Jeep sold 151,163 Wranglers in 2024 before improving that figure to 167,322 units in 2025. The model also recorded a 3-percent sales increase in the fourth quarter of 2025 compared to the same period a year earlier, even as several automakers posted steep declines during the quarter. The Ford Bronco, meanwhile, sold 109,172 units in 2024 and surged to 146,007 units the following year. Aside from the Wrangler, Jeep continues to compete across multiple segments of the SUV market with the 2026 Grand Cherokee and 2026 Cherokee. Dealer shipments of both models have already begun this year, with a particular focus on updated powertrains. Notably, the Cherokee gains a new 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid engine, which the automaker claims can deliver a driving range of up to 500 miles. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Putting the engine over the rear wheels and keeping it there has been both a blessing and a curse for Porsche and its 911. On the one hand, the challenges that come with putting an engine so far back without creating handling that makes a car unmanageable have been immense, but on the other, finding ways to overcome those challenges has created a spirit of innovation throughout the company, and Porsche's latest patent is further proof that the engineers in Stuttgart never stop trying to make their cars and the people who drive them faster. A new patent filed with the German Patent and Trade Mark Office, first noted by CarBuzz, illustrates this perfectly. Therein, the sports car manufacturer suggests a system that projects the ideal driving line into the driver's field of vision, not unlike in racing video games. How Porsche's New Idea Works Porsche In 2022, BMW launched the M Mixed Reality experience, using virtual reality goggles to help a driver take the optimal route around a track, but Porsche's idea needs no in-car accessories, and instead of using a head-up display (or similar system) to project the ideal driving line onto the windshield, Porsche imagines having a drone flying above and ahead of the car, projecting graphic information onto the track ahead. If this system works as intended, it would not only allow seasoned drivers to improve their abilities, but it would also help novices to get faster more quickly. Learning a track that you've never driven before could also be simplified. Related: Porsche Patents Heated Paddle Shifters That Feel More Like a Manual The computing power required for such a system would no doubt be immense, as the patent proposes the ability to "dynamically adapt the optimal driving line to the driving behavior of the vehicle and/or/ to track conditions of the race track [...], i.e., adapted to real-time data." This means the drone would need to be very fast, know the limits of the track, and understand what the car itself is capable of on said track. But that's not the only challenge. Numerous Obstacles to Production RM Sotheby's While patent applications can never be taken as official confirmation that an idea will reach production, this one seems particularly far-fetched. Not only would the drone need to be particularly quick and agile, and not only would the drone and car need to communicate with each other in real-time, but the drone would also need incredibly advanced projection technology to be able to display the ideal driving line in bright sunlight or on a lit nighttime track. There's also the question of how this drone's projection and even its presence would interfere with other drivers. Would the drone only be able to work properly when a driver is alone on the track, or would Porsche be able to find a way of ensuring that projections are partially canceled out when another driver is in their path? That's unclear, but with Ferrari introducing a similar patent back in 2023, and with cars becoming faster and more capable than ever, manufacturers are always looking for ways to allow drivers to harness optimal performance. View the full article

Stroud Safety has acquired White Safety, expanding its presence in motorsports safety while continuing to support racers entering the sport and those seeking accessible safety solutions. White Safety will continue operating from Oklahoma City and remain focused on providing reliable, cost-effective motorsports safety equipment for grassroots and entry-level racers. The acquisition is intended to strengthen long-term support for the White brand while maintaining its established role within the racing community. “White Safety has always served an important part of this sport,” said Tommy Cunningham, owner of Stroud Safety. “There are a lot of racers who need dependable safety equipment at an accessible price point, and White has earned their trust by delivering exactly that.” White Safety will continue offering its most popular products while benefiting from Stroud Safety’s manufacturing experience, testing resources, and operational support. John Gentry, Chief Revenue Officer of Stroud Safety, said the acquisition supports a clear distinction between the two brands. “Stroud and White serve different racers with different needs,” Gentry said. “This allows each brand to stay focused while improving long-term support, availability, and service for customers.” As part of the transition, White Safety has launched a newly updated website designed to improve product access and customer communication. For more information, visit www.whitesafety.com or contact White Safety at 405-733-2795. This story was originally published on January 13, 2026. The post Stroud Safety Acquires White Safety; Brand to Continue Serving Entry-Level Racers from Oklahoma City first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

How many new wagons with a manual gearbox can you think of? Zero is the only right answer, at least in the United States. When even Volvo has ditched wagons, it’s obvious the body style is on a downward trajectory, and adding a manual shifter in an era where automatics dominate is even more unexpected. But this is exactly the sort of car Kia has just revealed—the new K4 Sportswagon is a compact wagon that can be had with a manual gearbox. It’s a refreshingly unorthodox arrival in a sea of crossovers. The K4 Family Expands 2027 Kia K4 Sportswagon Kia View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Kia already has a K4 sedan and K4 hatchback, with both being on sale in this market. The K4 Sportswagon is the third addition to the compact family, sharing its front fascia with its siblings. But the longroof design adds a totally different twist. Kia has kept things sleek by concealing the handles of the rear doors, and the upswept beltline between the C and D pillars is another sporty touch. The K4 Sportswagon is 184.8 inches long, which is actually 0.6 inches shorter than the sedan sold in the USA. Its cargo area measures a useful 21.3 cubic feet, though, easily exceeding the 14.6 cubic feet in the sedan. A powered, hands-free tailgate further improves versatility. "With the K4 Sportswagon, we are extending the appeal of the K4 to customers who value space and versatility as much as they are interested in design and technology," said Sjoerd Knipping, Chief Operating Officer of Kia Europe. "By offering this wagon, we continue to show our ambition to provide practical solutions without compromising on innovation." Related: Are Station Wagons Set To Make a Comeback? The Trump Administration Seems To Think So Small Engines Keep Things Simple 2027 Kia K4 Sportswagon K View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The K4 Sportswagon doesn’t quite live up to its name in the engine department. It comes with a standard 1.0-liter turbo engine producing just 113 horsepower, a figure that the average American would scoff at. This engine is paired with a six-speed manual, and it’s also available with a mild-hybrid setup. A 1.6-liter turbo engine with up to 177 hp sounds much peppier, and this model gets a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Later this year, a hybrid will be added to the range. Kia’s familiar high-tech interior and available driver-assistance features will be present, including blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree surround-view camera. Unfortunately, the 2027 Kia K4 Sportswagon isn’t destined for American shores. Wagons struggle here, and the budget wagon segment is extinct in the United States, whereas the body style still has a loyal following in Europe. The K4 Sportswagon joins a trio of recently revealed Kia GT EVs that are also unlikely ever to be sold in America, and honestly, it’s our loss. A K4 Sportswagon with a manual gearbox and the sedan’s available 190-hp turbo-four sounds like a great alternative to a small crossover, but it’s simply not the kind of car this market would be interested in. View the full article

Unfiltered View on the New RoadsterTesla CEO Elon Musk recently touched on the unveiling of the next-generation Roadster, offering comments that quickly raised eyebrows. Speaking on the Moonshots podcast, Musk said the upcoming performance electric vehicle will not prioritize safety, going so far as to discourage potential buyers if safety is their top concern. For an EV promised to rocket from zero to 60 mph in just 1.9 seconds, it would seem reasonable to expect safety to remain a central focus for the new Roadster. After all, Tesla likely cannot afford another regulatory or reputational setback – especially as federal regulators continue to probe the EV maker over safety concerns tied to its products, including the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. 🚨 Elon on the Roadster unveiling, scheduled for April 1: pic.twitter.com/U4N3lVADRK — TESLARATI (@Teslarati) January 6, 2026 The Ferrari ComparisonMusk justified his statement by pointing to Ferrari buyers, arguing that customers do not purchase the Italian marque’s cars with safety as their primary consideration. That comparison highlights how Ferrari ownership is often linked to prestige and, for others, outright performance. He told the Moonshots podcast (via Teslarati on X): “Safety is not the main goal. If you buy a sports car or buy a Ferrari, safety is not the number one goal.” He added, “If safety is your number one goal, don’t buy the Roadster.” Despite the bluntness of those remarks, Musk clarified that Tesla aspires “not to kill anyone” with the new Roadster. The long-delayed EV, whose concept debuted in 2017, is instead positioned as what Musk described as the “best of the last of the human-driven cars.” That framing suggests the model is intended to serve as a performance benchmark before fully autonomous vehicles eventually dominate the market. Tesla Chasing the Performance BenchmarkIn that context, the Roadster would compete in the same halo-performance tier as the Rimac Nevera and Lotus Evija. Early reports indicate the upcoming Roadster will offer features like a tri-motor powertrain and a claimed range of up to 620 miles. If achieved, that figure would surpass the current production benchmark set by the Lucid Air, which boasts an EPA-rated range of 512 miles. More details are expected once Tesla officially unveils the Roadster on April 1. Coincidentally, the date falls on April Fool’s Day, which some may view skeptically given the company’s history of ambitious timelines and optimistic claims. But if the company ultimately delivers on its promises, the nameplate would mark a significant step forward from its predecessor, which was introduced in 2008 – at a time when the EV market was still almost non-existent. Tesla View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

BMW has already reported record sales in the United States for 2025, with 388,897 vehicles sold. Those sales were driven by the X3 and X5, which each sold over 76,000 units. But BMW’s strong 2025 wasn’t limited to the United States or its core luxury models. The high-performance M division has shared its global sales figures for last year, and it achieved its 14th consecutive record year. The automaker sold 213,457 M models globally last year, surpassing competitors in the process and demonstrating that BMW remains a benchmark brand for enthusiasts. BMW M Outsells Rivals Once Again 2026 BMW M2 CS BMW View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article BMW’s 2025 sales of M models were up by 3% over 2024, and the brand says it outsold competitors for the seventh consecutive year. While not all rivals have reported sales of performance models, we know that Mercedes-AMG hit 145,000 sales last year, so BMW M’s 213,457 units is easily ahead. We must point out that BMW combines true M car sales (like the M3 and M4) with sales of “M-lite” variants, or M Performance models, such as the X3 M50. Mercedes-AMG did not provide a detailed breakdown of how individual AMG models performed sales-wise. “Our 14th consecutive sales record validates our strategy. We will continue to offer performance and high-performance vehicles across the entire BMW model range. With fully electric, partly electric and all-ICE powertrains,” says Franciscus van Meel, CEO of BMW M GmbH. Almost one in every 10 BMWs sold in 2025 was an M variant; these performance models had a share of 9.8% within BMW’s range, another milestone, up from 9.4% previously. In Switzerland, BMW M models are especially popular, with almost every fourth BMW sold there being an M model. The United States was BMW M’s largest single market, with over 72,000 vehicles sold in 2025. An SUV Is Now BMW M's Top-Selling Model BMW BMW says the X3 M50 was its best-selling individual model, without specifying exactly how many units of the SUV were sold. Although not a replacement for the full-fat X3 M (a new X3 M should be on the way at some stage), the X3 M50 is still a serious performer. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine produces 393 horsepower, enabling a 4.4-second sprint time from zero to 60 mph. With its performance in 2025, the X3 M50 overtakes the i4 M60 as the best-selling BMW M product. BMW says the M5 and M5 Touring saw “enormous sales increases” in their first full year on sale. The M2 was the best-selling high-performance model—this group includes only full-fat M cars. The M3 family was another significant contributor to M car sales, buoyed by new additions like the M3 CS Touring, which is sadly not sold in the United States. Related: BMW’s New M3 CS Touring Is the Fastest Wagon Ever Around the Nürburgring Final Thoughts BMW BMW M has had its fair share of criticism in recent years. The XM was universally panned for its brash design and for being a poor choice as the only modern standalone M car. The new M5s are brilliant, but their plug-in hybrid powertrains have added an enormous amount of weight. And, lower in the lineup, the new M2 CS sadly doesn’t come with a manual. But despite all of this, the M division is still going strong. A larger and larger percentage of all BMWs sold now come with an M badge on the back, and the range still includes a few key ingredients that BMW fans worship: Rear-wheel drive, the availability of a manual, and the presence of potent six-cylinder and V8 engines. View the full article

Simultaneously owning a Mustang, a Corvette, and a Cobra would be a dream, but it's out of reach for most — unless you're willing to mash design elements of all three together in a single car. That's what appears to be the motivation behind perhaps the weirdest car for sale in America, this custom 1955 Ford Thunderbird "Moon Rocket," now bidding on Bring a Trailer for just $36,000, with four days of bidding remaining. Built nearly 70 years ago, it's an award-winning creation, bagging the People's Choice Award at the Oakland Roadster Show in January 1957, just two years after it was purchased new by San Francisco-based hot rodder Jerry Anolik. This Thunderbird Has an Incredible Backstory Bring a Trailer View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article According to the listing, the car had a crash shortly after winning the abovementioned award, and that's when custom front-end bodywork was created. It's reportedly been rebuilt three times between 1954 and 1959, with the last year being when it was reintroduced in silver and red at the Oakland Roadster Show, where fellow builder George Barris dubbed the car, which was originally blue, the "Moon Rocket." The car was toured across America and also raced in NHRA events, but after a fire at Bonneville Speed Week in September 1960, it was disassembled and stored until 2010, when it was placed on a rotisserie and reassembled by its original builder. Later that year, it was sold, with the new seller restoring the Moon Rocket over the course of several years. Under the hood is a 331 cubic inch (5.4-liter) Cadillac V8 with a GMC blower, quad Stromberg carburetor, and a three-speed manual transmission from a LaSalle (a now-defunct GM brand that was positioned alongside Cadillac). The shifter for this transmission is also out of the GM parts catalog, having been sourced from a C1 Corvette, and other highlights include a dual exhaust system with Smitty mufflers, a power-adjustable bench seat, and an AM radio. Overdone in Every Sense of the Word Bring a Trailer View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Besides the outrageous bodywork and the protruding power plant, the car has been overdone in the paint booth, too, with some 31 coats of lacquer paint reportedly being applied during its refurbishment. But why not? This is a car with a louvered tail panel made from 1941 Chevrolet truck door skins; nothing on this car is ordinary. Fake side pipes are made from 1936 Ford driveshafts, the taillights are from a 1956 Buick, the fuel filler is now on the trunk, and there's no way to put a roof on this thing anymore. The BaT listing documents a lot more of this once-famous build, and for whoever does buy this weird and wonderful one-off, it's still got plenty of life in it, with just 54,000 miles on the odometer. View the full article

Three-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Tony Stewart is back, at least for one race at the national level of NASCAR. Stewart, who is now 54 years old but still actively racing, will pilot the 'free agent' truck for Kaulig Racing and Ram in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series season-opener at Daytona International Speedway. 'Smoke' hasn't started a NASCAR race since retiring from the Cup Series at ...Keep readingView the full article

Not Exactly a SecretCars have been collecting data the moment vehicle telematics became widespread. These days, however, it's more extensive now given the advancements in technology. There are more data points to collect, which has become a concern for consumers. The worry here is that the data is being collected by third-party companies that then offer it for sale to those who need, or rather, want it. Since then, there have been several lawsuits against automakers that claim regarding the matter. James Riswick This Time, It's ToyotaMore recently, Toyota has been named in a lawsuit for the "unauthorized collection and dissemination of private information collected" by a Florida resident, WTSP reports. The plaintiff claims that data was gathered from his vehicle's telemetry, specifically a 2021 RAV4. He found that out when he was getting insurance for his vehicle, only to find that there was already a comprehensive driving profile on him. Toyota has since argued that the plaintiff accepted the terms and conditions of its connected services. It includes the collection of data "on a continuous and regular basis," although there was no mention of whether said data could be purchased by affiliates outside of Toyota. That said, it's unknown whether rejecting the terms and conditions disables the vehicle's connected services. Toyota Features Masquerading as Data Gold MinesRemember GM's Smart Driver program? It analyzed driving behavior and gave a score at the end of every trip, turning into a challenge of sorts for those behind the wheel to gain a higher score. But on the other side of the screen, it was a data gold mine for GM and its affiliates, and allegations of sharing said data without consent came pouring in. The automaker has since been penalized by the FTC. GM has been ordered to stop selling data for five years. However, these 'driver score' systems are still around and allegedly continue to gather telemetry. That's on top of the microphones in vehicles and built-in apps such as navigation and concierge services. Chevy Is There a Way to Avoid It?As we mentioned before, "take one extra walk-around: ask the dealer what data you’re opting into. If they cannot answer you, huge red flag." Also, take time to read the 'lawyer screens' and, if possible, disable the so-called driver score apps. Some automakers offer the option to delete the data entirely. That should come in handy if one is getting a second-hand vehicle. Privacy settings can also be changed via an application if possible. But if you want to avoid all of that completely, the only solution here is to get a relatively analog car with no telematics whatsoever. With that, driving a modern classic doesn't sound like a bad idea at all. Toyota View the full article

Stark Future posted a 77% year-over-year sales growth in 2025, but that's just the start of a list of financial achievements from last year.View the full article

Stark Future 2025 earnings and profitability Electric motorcycle manufacturer Stark Future has reported €115 million in revenue for the 2025 financial year, representing year-on-year growth of 77 per cent, according to figures released by the Barcelona-based company this week The company said it recorded profitability in five of the final nine months of the year, […] The post Stark Future reports 2025 growth and profitability figures appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has been setting records all over the country and all around the world, and now its hybridized ZR1X big brother, which powers all four wheels, is taking some more. In a new video published by GM (embedded at the bottom of this article), Chevy has announced that the Corvette ZR1X has become the quickest American production car available, "and the fastest way to get down a quarter-mile drag strip for under a million dollars." For the record (ha), the ZR1X starts at $209,700. With that out of the way, let's see what incredible feats of performance the supercar can claim. The ZR1X's Quarter-Mile Time is Eye-Popping Chevrolet View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The ZR1X took to the US 131 Motorsports Park drag strip in October last year, and on a prepared surface, the supercar ran the quarter mile in just 8.675 seconds with an exit speed of 159 mph. Chevy says this was achieved on pump gas, using standard Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and production 50-state street-legal engine calibration, and with a 0-60 mph time of just 1.68 seconds on the same run. It got to 60 mph in less than 100 feet, generating a peak of 1.75G as it did so. As this was an acceleration run and not a lap record attempt, the ZR1X in question was equipped with the standard aero setup, so no big wing or dive planes from the Carbon Fiber Aero Package (which, by the way, can generate over 1,200 lbs of downforce). With Corvette development engineer and test driver Stefan Frick behind the wheel, the ZR1X "completed multiple back-to-back quarter-mile runs all under 8.8 seconds." On an unprepped surface, Chevy says the ZR1X with ZTK Performance Package can do the quarter-mile in 8.99 seconds, hitting 60 mph from rest in 1.89 seconds. How the ZR1X's Quarter-Mile Time Compares Quarter Mile Trap Speed 0-60 mph Starting MSRP Corvette ZR1X 8.675 seconds 159 mph 1.68 seconds $209,700 Rimac Nevera R 7.9 seconds 186 mph 1.66 seconds $2.5 million Pininfarina Battista 8.55 seconds 155 mph 1.79 seconds $2.2 million Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut 8.77 seconds 185 mph 2.4 seconds $3.4 million Bugatti Tourbillon 8.8 seconds 176 mph 1.9 seconds $4.6 million Lucid Air Sapphire 8.95 seconds 158 mph 1.89 seconds $249,000 Chevy's time makes vastly more expensive hypercars look almost pedestrian, competing with even the almighty Rimac Nevera R, as well as the similarly underpinned Pininfarina Battista, both of which are more than 10 times as expensive. The ZR1X also beats the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut, the upcoming Bugatti Tourbillon (which is more than 21 times pricier), and the all-electric Lucid Air Sapphire. The Nevera R makes 2,078 horsepower, the Pininfarina Battista produces 1,874 hp, and the Koenigsegg Jesko and Bugatti Tourbillon make up to 1,600 and 1,775 hp, respectively. The only "regular" car Chevy compares to, the Lucid Air Sapphire, is a rapid EV making 1,234 hp. By comparison, the ZR1X makes a total of 1,250 hp from its 1,064-hp 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 and a 186-hp electric motor on the front axle. Phenomenal, but just imagine what the car will do once aftermarket tuners get their grubby paws on it... View the full article

Used Cars With Significant WarrantiesGeneral Motors is moving aggressively to strengthen its position in the used-car market by doubling warranty coverage on vehicles sold through its CarBravo platform. Effective January 2026, CarBravo-certified vehicles now come with a 12-month/12,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, replacing the previous 6-month/6,000-mile policy. The expanded coverage is included at no additional cost and carries no deductible, a clear attempt to remove friction for buyers increasingly wary of repair costs and long-term ownership risk, as well as to ease concerns about rising car prices. The new warranty is paired with 24-hour roadside assistance and courtesy transportation, signaling that GM wants CarBravo to feel closer to an OEM-backed ownership experience than a typical used-car transaction. Vehicles that fall outside CarBravo’s standard certification, often older or higher-mileage models, can still qualify for a 30-day/1,000-mile BravoBudget powertrain warranty, allowing GM to extend protection across a broader slice of used inventory. Strategic Timing in a Competitive, Price-Sensitive MarketCarBravo program leader John Fitzpatrick, in a statement to The Detroit News, said the platform was designed to simplify vehicle comparisons while building confidence in certified used models, particularly through service support at GM dealerships nationwide. The aim, he said, is to ensure customers enter the buying process informed and confident they’re purchasing a dependable used vehicle, not just chasing the lowest advertised price. About 700 dealerships are participating so far out of roughly 4,000 GM stores nationwide, covering all brands except Cadillac, which operates its own certified pre-owned program. The move to extend the standard warranty from six months to a full year came directly from dealer feedback, according to Fitzpatrick. In announcing the change, he said the longer coverage helps customers better manage the total cost of ownership at a time when affordable vehicle options are front and center for shoppers. With higher interest rates and new-car prices still elevated, GM is betting that predictable ownership costs will matter as much as upfront pricing in winning used-car buyers. Chevrolet Setting a Higher Bar for OEM-Backed Used CarsOnline used-car retailers continue to face pressure around profitability, customer satisfaction, and post-sale support, while traditional dealers are being pushed to modernize how they sell used vehicles. This hybrid approach allows customers to shop online, in-store, or through a mix of both and lets GM leverage its physical dealer footprint while offering the flexibility buyers now expect. As earlier reported, car-buyers are going as far as taking out historically the longest loan terms seen yet for new cars, simply for the peace of mind and the warranty. With these developments, CarBravo is positioning itself as a lower-risk way to buy used, backed by longer warranty coverage and a national dealer service network. For the broader industry, the implications could be significant. A 12-month bumper-to-bumper warranty on used vehicles may soon become the baseline rather than a differentiator. If buyer response is strong, GM’s move could force competing platforms and dealer groups to rethink what “standard” protection really looks like in today’s used-car market. Chevrolet View the full article

The Factory model adds titanium Akrapovič exhaust, race suspension, and significant weight savings over the standard Desmo450 MX. View the full article

Toyota Stays on Top AgainToyota Motor Corp. finished 2025 right where it’s been for most of the past decade: leading the global sales race, Nikkei Asia reports. Toyota has now held the world’s best-selling automaker title for six years running, a streak that started back in 2020. From January to November 2025, the Toyota group moved 10,327,976 vehicles worldwide. That figure counts Daihatsu and Hino, which still pull their weight in small cars and commercial vehicles. Of note, Toyota’s 11-month total already beat Volkswagen's full-year sales. The Volkswagen Group, meanwhile, ended 2025 with 8,983,900 vehicles sold worldwide – a slight dip of 0.5 percent from 2024. With Toyota’s numbers already ahead before December even wrapped, the outcome is clear. Regional Differences in MomentumThe contrast between Toyota and Volkswagen becomes even clearer when you break it down by region. Volkswagen is still under pressure in China, its biggest market for years. It sold about 2.69 million vehicles there last year – an 8 percent drop – as local brands ramped up the fight in both EVs and traditional models. Toyota, on the other hand, finally saw its first sales growth in China in four years. It's unclear whether the Toyota RAV4 will reclaim its spot as the world's best-selling vehicle, but we won't be surprised if it does. Volkswagen did have some wins. Sales in Europe held steady, and global EV deliveries jumped 32 percent to 983,100 units. Demand for EVs in Europe and the US outpaced last year, so the electrification push is working – just not enough to close the gap with Toyota. The uneven results across regions left Volkswagen well behind in the overall sales race. Toyota Stark Contrast in the USIn the US, Toyota and Volkswagen went in opposite directions. Toyota had a strong year, thanks to steady demand for hybrids and crossovers. Its early bet on hybrid tech is paying off as buyers want better fuel economy without going all-in on EVs. Volkswagen, meanwhile, struggled in North America. With the Tiguan and Atlas as its best-sellers, VW of America’s US sales dropped 10.4 percent last year, squeezed by pricing pressure and tariffs, prompting the automaker to pause some models and rethink its strategy. Even with big investments in EVs, Volkswagen couldn’t keep up with Toyota or the top domestic brands. Amos Kwon View the full article

Coming Soon to a Fancy Hotel Near YouThe heavily updated Mercedes-Benz S-Class will be making its world premiere towards the end of this month. The company claims the facelift will be "the most ambitious launch program in Mercedes-Benz history." With that, wealthy folk can rejoice, and some nations will probably get one of these to replace their current presidential cars. It was somewhat previewed not that long ago, albeit still wrapped in camouflage and as a luxury autonomous taxi for the Middle East. Of course, we can expect some styling tweaks out of it, a revised interior, and even more tech. But what we weren't expecting was a new engine option. Mercedes-Benz A New V8For the most part, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is powered by a turbocharged inline-six engine. America is lucky enough to still get the twin-turbo V8 in the non-Maybach version, and it's still quite the engine. It's fitted to the S580, and it's good for 496 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. But that engine will soon be replaced by a different kind of V8, one that's straight from the S63. That means even a bog-standard S-Class (if we can call it that) will be getting a raspy flat-plane crank V8. It's not exactly the kind of engine we'd expect from a normal S-Class, but we say it's a great bit of news. More on that EngineThe 4.0-liter biturbo V8 for the new S580 isn't exactly an all-new design. Internally known as the M177, it was first introduced in the previous-generation C63 from 2015. It has since been applied to the other AMG models, as well as a couple of Aston Martin vehicles. Sticking this engine in the standard S-Class is perhaps Mercedes-Benz's way of atoning for the four-cylinder C63. It would be lovely to stick the M177 back in that car, if you ask us. Per Autocar, the move to the flat-plane V8 was for the sake of lowering emissions and more power. We can also assume that another benefit of the engine design is a finer, higher-pitched soundtrack. By the way, Mercedes-Benz also told the publication that the V8 in the S580 will now make 530 hp. Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

From a reinforced shell to protect your head to a reinforced shell to protect your belongings during travel makes a certain kind of sense, no?View the full article

The EV market has taken a dive since federal tax credits were phased out last September. But General Motors Chairman and CEO Mary Barra remains optimistic it’s only a matter of time until demand rebounds. Eventually, “people will choose (EVs) because they’re better vehicles,” she said during a meeting of the Automotive Press Association at GM’s new Detroit headquarters on Monday. Barra said her company has to respond to the slowdown in EV sales by directing more investment dollars into internal combustion engines. But she remains a skeptic when it comes to the plug-in hybrids that some of GM’s competitors see as the near-term bridge to an eventual all-electric future. Barra Remains Charged Up It’s become her mantra, even now Barra insists GM is on a “path to an all-electric future,” and while it may be redoubling development of internal combustion engines, it’s continued to roll out new EVs, including the reborn Chevrolet Bolt. At $28,995, plus $1,395 in delivery fees, it’s now one of the most affordable battery-powered products on the market. Longer-term, Barra believes several things are necessary to kick-start EV momentum, starting with the reliable and readily accessible nationwide charging network that former Pres. Joe Biden earmarked $5 billion for. His successor, Donald Trump has tried to put that program on hold, among a number of steps he’s taken to pull back on electric vehicles. It will also be crucial to bring out newer, lower cost batteries, the single highest cost of any EV, Barra noted. Like most industry leaders, Barra isn’t a fan of government intrusion. And even though the loss of federal incentives has hammered the U.S. EV market, she said “I don’t want the regulatory environment to drive EV adoption,” she explained. “I want it to be because people choose them because they felt they were better vehicles and they fit their lives.” Chevrolet Skeptical About PHEVs“I’m a little surprised at some (automakers) that are really pulling away very quickly” from their EV plans. Mazda now says it won’t introduce its first new EV for several more years. Stellantis has killed off its all-electric Ram 1500. Ford scrubbed several three-row pickups and last month said it was ending production of the F-150 Lightning, the market’s best-selling all-electric pickup. Related: Mazda Is Delaying Its First Real EV and That Might Be the Smart Move GM will take more time to go all-electric, said Barra, noting the carmaker has sharply increased spending on development of internal combustion engines. “We’re not going to cede our leadership there,” she stressed. But she sounded an unexpectedly sour note when asked about plug-in hybrids, a technology many industry leaders now see as a “bridge” to EVs. “We’re evaluating plug-in hybrids,” she said, declining to offer more details. S A year ago, Barra had indicated GM would introduce PHEV versions of some of its larger truck models. Her comments suggest the automaker might be backing off from that plan. Part of the problem, she explained, is that a large share of owners tend not to plug in their PHEVs, meaning they don’t get the benefit of the all-electric range they offer. Just Say No to RobotaxisAsked what she personally drives, Barra said she can be stopped around town in a GMC Hummer EV, which makes her feel like a “badass soccer mom.” The GM CEO was trained as an electrical engineer and waxed eloquently about the benefits of all the new digital safety and creature comfort features coming to the latest automobiles. She previously expressed her belief that GM will generate billions of dollars of new earnings through sales of those technologies and subscriptions to various digital services. That includes the company’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system. Getty That said, she has backed away from some high-tech plans, in 2024 shutting down GM’s San Francisco-based Cruise subsidiary following a near-fatal crash. “We don’t want a (robo)taxi business. We don’t want a (robo)bus business.” Instead, “We want to focus on personal autonomy, not on ride-sharing.” GM has repeatedly update Super Cruise which now can operate hands-free on 750,000 miles of U.S. and Canadian roads. The next step is a “Level 3” upgrade allowing drivers to not only take hands off the wheel but eyes off the road, allowing them to text or watch videos – though they’d still need to be ready to retake control of the vehicle in an emergency. The ultimate goal is a “Level 4” system that could operate even without a driver. But Barra admitted she’s been overly optimistic before about when that can happen, declining to offer a new target date. Barra’s in No Rush to Leave Having turned 64 early last month, the inevitable stories have begun circulating about when Mary Barra will retire. She’s now in her twelfth year at the helm of the largest U.S. automaker, logging more time than any other GM CEO but the legendary Alfred P. Sloan who led the company from 1923 to 1946. But don’t expect her to rush out the door, even when she turns 65. “I’m having a lot of fun,” said Barra, adding that she still has plenty she wants to do at the company. If she were to retire anytime soon, current betting seems to be focused on Sterling Anderson, the co-founder of autonomous tech firm Aurora, who joined GM last June as its global chief product officer. But Barra wasn’t going to leave any clues as she wrapped up her Monday session. “We have several people who are very, very talented,” and who could be chosen by the board to succeed her. Ultimately, she noted, it will be up to the GM Board of Directors to make the choice – though, as chairman, she clearly will have a strong say in whomever does eventually fill her stylish high-heeled shoes. View the full article

Whether you go 900cc or 1200cc is up to you, but the basic building blocks of a good time on two wheels just get stronger either way.View the full article

High Stakes at High SpeedThe Chevrolet C8 Corvette ZR1 may be touted as the most extreme production version ever built, but that doesn’t mean it’s immune to mishaps. In fact, one Corvette ZR1 recently spun out and slammed into a wall during a drag race against a Nissan GT-R, raising questions about what exactly went wrong. In an Instagram post shared by the Nissan owner himself, @everythingavron, the GT-R pulled away early during a rolling start – an advantage likely tied to its standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, which distributes power to all four wheels for maximum traction. The Corvette ZR1, by contrast, relies on a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout. While the Vette later kept pace, it lost rear traction, veered left, and ultimately crashed. Breaking Down the Possible CausesNo official details were provided regarding the cause of the incident, but several plausible explanations exist for why such a capable performance car might spin. One possibility is that the driver disabled the traction control system. This feature is designed to maintain grip by managing wheel slip – often by reducing engine output or selectively applying the brakes. While traction control is ideal for everyday driving and safety, some drivers turn it off during track days in an effort to extract maximum performance. Another contributing factor could be track conditions. Based on footage shared by Instagram user @lightskin_luck33, who was seated trackside during the race, there appeared to be standing water near the drag strip, suggesting it may have rained earlier. While drag strips are typically among the stickiest surfaces on Earth, even minor moisture can affect stability, especially at high speeds. Regardless of the cause, the GT-R owner said that the driver of the Corvette ZR1 was okay. @lightskin_luck33 on Instagram Looking Beyond the CrashFrom the factory, the Corvette ZR1 is powered by a 5.5-liter twin-turbo LT7 V8 producing 1,064 horsepower. Its performance credentials are well established, highlighted by its lap that beat the time set by the Ford Mustang GTD at the Nürburgring. In a run conducted by DragTimes, the vehicle completed a quarter-mile run from a standing start in just 9.291 seconds at 153.20 mph. Despite crashing in a straight-line race, dismissing the Corvette ZR1’s performance would be unfair, as numerous external variables may have contributed to the incident. For those seeking added stability, Chevy also offers an all-wheel-drive alternative in the Corvette ZR1X, which pairs AWD with a hybrid system to deliver a combined output of 1,250 horsepower. Chevrolet View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Jeep is making good on its promise to reveal 12 special edition Wranglers over 12 months, as part of the Twelve 4 Twelve series to celebrate the brand’s 85th anniversary. The first was the Moab 392 in November, followed by the Wrangler Whitecap last month. Now, Jeep has revealed the new Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition this January. This is also the most affordable of the special editions so far, as the more affordable Wrangler Sport S has been used as a starting point. Here’s a look at what the 85th Anniversary Edition offers. Related: 2026 Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 Ushers In a Year of Special Editions Heritage-Inspired Design and More Standard Equipment 2026 Jeep Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition Stellantis View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article A tribute to Jeep Americana heritage, the 85th Anniversary Edition features Blue Agave 85th Anniversary badges and decals on the exterior. There are body-color fender flares, bronze tow hooks, and 17-inch wheels in a Steel Oxide-painted finish. Deep-tint windows, a Gorilla Glass windshield, heated mirrors, and LED headlamps/daytime running lamps/fog lights are all standard. Customers may upgrade to a black molded-in color hardtop or body-color hardtop optionally, and all-terrain tires are available at no extra charge. But as good as it looks from the outside, the heritage theme really comes to life in the cabin. Here, Jeep has gone for stylish plaid design cues, which can be found on the instrument panel and seats; these seats also have an 85th tag. They remind one of the heritage-inspired plaid seats in the Volkswagen Golf GTI. An 85th shifter medallion and cupholder plaque, along with rugged Berber floor and carpet mats, are also part of the upgrades. Stellantis The Wrangler has never been the most comfortable machine on four wheels, but there are some items that make the 85th Anniversary Edition easier to live with. It has the Convenience Group equipped as standard, which includes heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, and keyless passive entry. An Alpine sound system is fitted, as are safety features like adaptive cruise control. Related: The Jeep Wrangler Has Many Trims, But Only One Is The Smart Buy How Much Is It? 2026 Jeep Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article According to Jeep, the Wrangler 85th Anniversary Edition is only $710 more expensive than the Sport S trim when it’s equipped with the Convenience Group and Alpine sound system. It’ll start at $46,300, excluding a destination charge of $1,995. That’s way less than the $79,995 Moab 392, the first of the special editions. It’s also less than the Whitecap, which was based on the pricier Sahara and Rubicon trims. Since Jeep mentioned the Sport S, we can safely assume that the 85th Anniversary Edition has access to the same engine choices, which would be a 3.6-liter V6 or 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo. Jeep has just killed off its Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid, so none of the forthcoming special editions will be available with this powertrain. The 85th Anniversary Edition specification will also be available for the Gladiator (not pictured here) at a starting price of $45,820, excluding the destination charge. “For 85 uninterrupted years, every Jeep vehicle has been built with purpose, designed first for capability, engineered for real world use and shaped by the needs of those who rely on it,” said Bob Broderdorf, Jeep brand CEO. “The Wrangler 85th Anniversary special edition reflects this enduring mindset, translating into thoughtful details and authentic design cues that honor the past while continuing to deliver confidence and capability for today’s adventures.” View the full article

Some Bell Scout Air helmets don't provide proper penetration protection, and an NHSTA recall has been issued.View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage Nine – Wadi Ad Dawasir to Bisha (Marathon) Stage Nine of the 2026 Dakar Rally proved one to remember for Tosha Schareina, claiming his third stage win of this running, and his career fifth win, with a strong finish towards the end of the special that saw him outpace Daniel Sanders […] The post Stage Nine win for Schareina as Sanders extends lead appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

The Honda Beach Cleaner ATV has been participating in community cleanup activities across Japan for years, and now it has its own soundtrack.View the full article

A Familiar Badge, Slowly ReshapedHonda’s H badge has been part of the brand since 1963, starting out as a simple, no-nonsense symbol for its cars. Over the years, it changed shape to match the times. Early versions looked sharper and more mechanical, while the 2000 update brought in the flatter, modern badge most people know now. The 2000 badge stuck around through Honda’s biggest years – global expansion, hybrids, and the first steps into electrification. But change was coming. In 2024, Honda showed off a new H badge on its EV concepts. It looked lighter, flatter, and more open. At first, it seemed like something just for the EVs. Now, Honda says the new H isn’t just for EVs. It’s going to represent the whole car lineup. The badge that’s been on Honda cars for decades is about to start a new chapter, one that’s more about where the brand is headed than what’s under the hood. Honda What the New H Is Meant to SayHonda says the new H was designed together with its next-gen cars, including the upcoming Honda 0 Series EVs. The idea was to go back to zero – rethink what it means to build and sell cars, and look at Honda’s roots with fresh eyes. The new badge is supposed to look like two outstretched hands. Honda says it stands for openness and sincerity – a way to show it wants to push mobility forward but still keep things personal. It’s less stiff and less industrial than before, which makes sense now that software and user experience are just as important as hardware. There’s a bigger message, too. Honda calls this a “second founding,” treating electrification and smart tech as a full reset rather than just another step. The new H is supposed to show that shift, without falling into the usual tech buzzwords. Honda Where You’ll See the New BadgeThe new H won’t show up everywhere right away. Honda says it’ll first appear on new EVs and hybrids (e:HEVs) starting in 2027. So, for now, the current badge sticks around on today’s models. The new H isn’t just for cars, either. It’ll show up on dealership signs, in ads, and even in Honda’s motorsports. Motorcycles are left out for now. Over time, the badge becomes less about a single model and more about tying the whole car side of Honda together. Honda View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article