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Tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee has spent plenty of time with American and European EVs, but his latest deep dive focuses on something U.S. buyers cannot get: the Xiaomi SU7 Max. The sleek Chinese electric sedan costs the equivalent of about $42,000 in its home market, yet Brownlee says it feels like a $75,000-plus car in terms of performance, software, and interior quality. His conclusion is clear. On product alone, a car like this would put serious pressure on a lot of mainstream and premium EVs sold in the United States. The catch is that it is effectively locked out of the market by tariffs and political worries over Chinese tech. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Inside Xiaomi’s $42,000 EVThe SU7 Max is the flagship version of Xiaomi’s first mass-market car, a fastback sedan with dual motors, all-wheel drive, and more than 600 horsepower. Brownlee highlights strong straight-line performance, calm high-speed manners, and cabin tech that feels closer to a high-end smartphone than a traditional infotainment system. He points to crisp graphics, fast responses, and thoughtful features that make familiar systems in many Western EVs seem dated. That level of polish is arriving from an automaker that has already shipped more than half a million EVs since last year, even though American shoppers will never get to drive one unless the rules change. Brownlee’s video adds a high-profile, hands-on endorsement to the idea that Chinese brands are closing the gap on established players very quickly. Tesla Would It Really “Cook” The U.S. Market?On paper, the SU7 Max lines up neatly against cars like the Tesla Model 3 Performance and higher-end European sports sedans. Xiaomi has already pitted hotter SU7 versions against Tesla in attention-grabbing stunts, including a 2,500-horsepower showdown where the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra races a Model S Plaid. Brownlee’s main point is that if a well-equipped, high-performance EV with this level of finish could really land near $40,000 in the U.S., it would reset expectations for what buyers get at that price. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Great Product, Tough PoliticsBrownlee also acknowledges what keeps cars like this out of American garages. The United States has steep tariffs on Chinese-built EVs, and policymakers are increasingly focused on data, software, and security risks from connected vehicles. Xiaomi is already learning that building competitive products is only one part of the story; a recent fatal crash has put design and safety under the microscope, with scrutiny of a door layout. Brownlee’s verdict is that the hype around Chinese EVs is real, at least when it comes to value and execution. For now, though, the Xiaomi SU7 Max is less a direct rival for American-market EVs and more a warning shot about how quickly the competitive bar is rising in countries that are open to Chinese brands. View the full article

A large part of what makes a Miata so special is Mazda’s dogged resistance to overkill. Decades later, today’s ND is still a small, athletic sports car with a modest four-cylinder mill. But it’s hard not to imagine what the MX-5 would be like with serious power. Well, we need not imagine any longer, as a company named Rocketeer from England has found a way to squeeze a 3.0-liter V6 into the engine bay of the tiny Miata NA, and the performance boost is also being applied to other generations of the sports car. But the modifications go far beyond that, and the result is a Miata turned up to eleven. Related: The Mazda Miata Is America's Most Fun Car—And Its Least Driven Meet The MX-5 ‘Keiryo’ Rocketeer Rocketeer’s vision for Project Keiryo is to keep the analog feel of the stock MX-5, but with a massive dose of power. Whereas the standard car makes just 181 horsepower from its 2.0-liter four-pot, this one will produce 370 hp from a modified version of Jaguar’s 3.0-liter ‘AJ30’ V6. A wet weight of just 1,874 pounds (a base Miata ND weighs 2,366 lbs in stock form) will give Keiryo a power-to-weight ratio that’s comparable to a Lamborghini Huracan V10, Ferrari F40, or McLaren 620R. It’s not clear how Rocketeer got the weight down so low, but it’s an impressive feat for a car that’s already known as a lightweight in standard form. We’re guessing luxuries like air conditioning have been tossed. Rocketeer states that a bespoke, hand-crafted restomod can take as long as a year, depending on customer requirements. According to Top Gear, the first of 10 Keiryo Miatas is being built now, with deliveries expected to begin early in 2026. Although the price is unknown, Rocketeer says on its site that full MX-5 restorations start from £75,000 (just shy of $100,000). The company also does turnkey sports cars, and these start from £19,995 (about $26,600). Related: Want to Buy an NA Miata? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Rocketeer’s Extensive Miata Experience Rocketeer has been building V6-powered MX-5s for years now. Back in 2020, an NB Miata with a Jaguar V6 went up for sale. This swap was also handled by Rocketeer, but unlike the upcoming Keiryo, that V6 produced just 220 hp. That’s still significantly more than a stock NB Miata, though. This model retained the standard five-speed manual, and Rocketeer’s kit made replacing the four-pot with the V6 surprisingly straightforward. As for the stock Miata’s future, one wonders what’s coming next. The current ND has been in production for over a decade now, which is a long time in the motoring world. It’s possible that a successor will receive hybridization, but Mazda must be careful not to inflate the car’s weight. Switching to a hybrid would also likely see the end of the manual Miata, which would be a travesty in the eyes of Mazda fans. Fortunately, in an interview with Road & Track earlier this year, Mazda's CTO suggested the next MX-5 will stick with a manual and a naturally-aspirated engine. We’ll have to wait to see what’s next for the tiny roadster, but in the meantime, Rocketeer’s Miata V6 looks like a ton of fun for those with the wherewithal to acquire one. View the full article

The winter testing season has begun, and several automakers have made the trek to northern Sweden to start evaluating their upcoming cars in some of the coldest weather on the planet, ensuring they're reliable in all conditions. One of those automakers is BMW, with its all-new, all-electric i3 sedan. Unlike the last model to wear that badge, which was a carbon fiber-infused supermini effectively used as a test bed for EV technology, this i3, like the iX3 that has already made waves, is BMW's proof of concept for the 800-volt, 500-mile Neue Klasse EV architecture, and it's expected to be as good as the benchmark in this vehicle size class, the 3 Series. And as these new spy shots show, it'll be a handsome thing. Production Headlights Show Up, but BMW is Still Hiding Bodywork SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article BMW was long known for double rings in its headlights, but as other automakers have adopted similar daytime running light motifs (ahem, Alfa Romeo Giulia), Munich has gone for the 'snake eye' slit approach. Housed in an angular cluster inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse concept, the front lights flow seamlessly into horizontal 'kidney grilles,' which are neither kidney-shaped nor grilles on this EV. The space between them draws the eye to the recessed hood, and on this prototype, this is still covered in some cladding. Lower down, the front fascia features a rectangular opening for radiator cooling. The profile of the car again appears to be nearly identical to that of the Vision Neue Klasse concept, and the rear of the glasshouse adopts a more traditional Hofmeister kink than current-generation G-series Bimmers. Related: BMW Quietly Teases Its Next Electric SUV Further back, a pert rear end with a subtle lip spoiler on the trunk gives the sedan classic proportions. While the bumper remains a development placeholder, the light shining through the camouflage indicates that the production taillights have been fitted, and it appears that these may not be nearly full-width elements like those on the iX3 or the aforemention concept; in fact, these lights look very similar to those on the F30 3 Series, with an upward kink at each end, but we'll have to wait for more camo to be removed before we can be sure what Munich has in mind. All-New i3 Arrives Next Year SH Proshots/Autoblog The i3 is expected to debut sometime next year, with production scheduled in Munich for the second half of 2026. Joining the new electric sedan will be a Touring, or station wagon variant, though it's unlikely that this will be offered in the States, at least not initially. And for those who still aren't ready to adopt silent motoring, a combustion-powered 3 Series with similar styling will also arrive next year. Keep an eye out for more spy shots of the hybridized 3er as BMW's winter testing program progresses. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

KTM's MotoGP team has remained adamant that it will continue racing in the series come 2027. But while it's already testing its new 850cc engine, its new owners have remained mum on the team's future.View the full article

Shoppers shift toward the cheapest versionsSticker shock has become a defining part of the new-car buying experience. With the average transaction price for a new vehicle hitting $50,080 in September, many Americans are simply priced out of the mid- and high-tier trims that automakers love to spotlight. Instead, a growing number are gravitating toward the least expensive versions on the lot, and few brands illustrate this shift more clearly than Ford. The company says interest in base trims surged across its lineup last month. Combined sales of three of its most affordable configurations—the Maverick XL, Ranger XL, and Bronco Sport Big Bend—jumped 26.4% year-over-year. That momentum isn’t a one-month anomaly either. Ford reports that year-to-date sales for these trims are up 12.7%, suggesting that buyers have been adjusting to their new financial reality for a while. Ford’s budget-friendly trucks lead the wayFord’s popular small pickup, the Maverick, shows just how powerful the affordability shift has become. Overall, Maverick sales climbed 43.3% in November, but the real growth came from the no-frills XL trim. Sales of that entry-level model jumped a staggering 76.2%, helping the compact truck set a new annual sales record with a full month still left in the year. Ford It’s a similar story for the Ranger. Sales of the midsize pickup climbed 35.8%, bolstered by a 48% spike in demand for the base XL version. For shoppers who want a truck without paying luxury-car prices, the cheapest Ranger is becoming an increasingly compelling alternative. Ford’s SUVs are seeing the same trend. The Explorer posted its best November since 2018, with more than 20,000 units sold—a 41.5% increase. The entry-level Active trim drove much of that success, soaring 60.7% from a year earlier. Even the mid-tier ST-Line saw big gains, proving that shoppers aren’t just avoiding the top trims—they’re clustering around the lower end of the lineup. Price fatigue and the EV slowdown reshape the marketFord credits part of its recent resilience to staying focused on affordability. While its overall November sales dipped slightly—down 0.9%—the broader U.S. auto market fell an average of 7%. In the process, Ford managed to grow its market share by half a percentage point. Getty Some of this shift comes from “price fatigue,” a phrase automakers are now using openly as many buyers balk at paying more than ever for new vehicles. The cooling of electric vehicle demand following the expiration of federal tax credits has played a role, too. With fewer incentives available, some buyers who might have considered an EV are instead opting for a cheaper gas model. Even affordable models aren’t immune to inflationThe turn toward entry-level trims doesn’t mean these vehicles are truly inexpensive—just inexpensive relative to everything else. Take the Maverick again. When it launched for the 2021 model year, it carried a headline-grabbing starting price of $19,995 before destination. Ford Today, that same truck begins at $27,145 before fees. That’s a $7,350 jump in a little over four years. Still, the Maverick remains America’s most affordable pickup, and with prices rising everywhere, that seems to be enough to keep demand climbing. Final thoughtsAs long as inflation remains sticky and buyers continue feeling squeezed, expect the surge in base-trim shopping to stick around. Automakers may love selling high-margin luxury configurations, but right now, Americans seem far more interested in getting the best deal they can. View the full article

New Era, Neue KlasseIn BMW parlance, Neue Klasse is a moment in the company’s history that saw seismic shifts. We saw the introduction of models such as the 1500, 2002, the Bavaria, and the E9 Coupe. It was then followed up by the Series models we now know today. The company has revived that term for its next-generation models, so we’re expecting to see huge changes in the coming years. The Neue Klasse revival has been kicked off by the iX3. No longer just an X3 with batteries to keep it going, the all-new model rides on a dedicated EV platform, and that’s just scratching the surface. Technology and design elements seen in the new EV crossover will eventually make their way to the rest of the range. That Steering WheelThe 2026 iX3 boasts a whole heap of innovations previously unseen in past BMWs. But, interestingly, the company is quite proud of one of the options it will soon offer in this model. That would be the white steering wheel. As it is, the wheel is a pretty bold design with its crosshair four-spoke design. A nod to pre-war models, perhaps? Either way, it makes a statement, whether one likes it or not. There's another wheel design for the M Sport models, but even that has its own unique look with spokes on the 4 o'clock and the 8 o'clock part. So, what's the big deal with the white wheel? According to BMW Blog, it will be an Individual option for all trims. Individual is the company's more bespoke options list, and it's open to all variants and all models. That way, it allows customers to personalize their specific vehicle. The availability of that white wheel to all grades means buyers will no longer be forced to go straight for the top-spec model if they want that look. What's just as surprising is the fact that the M Sport steering wheel will also be an option for standard models, just like in the past. That, we agree with, and we sure hope that will be the case for the rest of BMW's lineup. BMW BMW iX3: Other HighlightsSteering wheels aside, what are the other noteworthy things to be seen in the iX3? Well, what you won't see is the iDrive scroll wheel, and that will be the case for future BMW models. It's touchscreens from now on, just like, er, everyone else. Also, BMW got rid of the screen in front of the driver and replaced it with something called Panoramic Vision. Instrumentation is now at the base of the windshield and runs across the width of the dashboard. Lastly, there's the Heart of Joy central computer unit that not only handles powertrain, but also the advanced driver assists and the chassis. The BMW iX3 is currently available in Europe, with the US set to get it in Spring 2026. So far, it's doing well in the Old Continent, even outpacing the X3 in orders in its home market. BMW View the full article

Displays in cars have become overgrown, with many seeing them now as a detriment. Now, that same trend is coming to side-by-sides with Polaris' massive infotainment screen in its new RZR Pro R. View the full article

The HJC C71 delivers big performance at a small price, making it a strong contender for street and sport-touring riders.View the full article

Front Bench Seats Still ExistYou might not find them in cars anymore, but bench seats are still around. You'll have to take a look at full-size pickups to see them, though. Ford, GM, and Ram have those in their trucks, at least in entry-level or heavy-duty models. But can you find three-across seating outside of the world of pickups? Apparently, you still can. While fiddling around Chevrolet's configurator, we're glad to see that the Tahoe and Suburban for the 2026 model year still have that option. After checking the competition, we can safely say that those two are the only ones in class to have room for three at the front. Chevrolet It's Not Exactly a Bench, ThoughThe classic definition of a bench seat has a one-piece seat base, and sometimes, a one-piece backrest too. Later on, a split was added to make the driver's side independent from the other two seats. But in the case of the current Tahoe and Suburban, it's more like three individual seats side-by-side with each other. It's actually the same as the ones used in the Silverado and GMC Sierra. It employs a 40:20:40 design, and the center seat has its own base. Still, you can seat three people at the front of a Tahoe or Suburban, bringing the total occupant capacity to 9. That's something the last two generations didn't have. Adding the front seat actually saves you $250. When not in use, the backrest can be used as a center console with cupholders and a storage bin. Mind you, it's only available in the entry-level LS trims for both, and it's a challenge to find one in stock. We tried looking around online for one, but came up empty. We're genuinely curious about the uptake, though. Chevrolet Other SUVs With Three-Across Front SeatingIf the Tahoe and Suburban are too big, there's the Land Rover Defender, which actually comes standard. That means you can fit eight people in it with a 3-3-2 arrangement in the stretched-out 130 version. Another noteworthy mention is the Hyundai Palisade, which offers a 9-seater option. Hyundai made it possible for owners to drive their Palisades in bus lanes in Korea. It's not available in the US, though, and it's unknown if it will even be offered stateside. While uncommon in America, the bench seat is still alive and well in most parts of the world. European utility vans still have them, as do some pickups in Asia. It still has its purpose, but mostly for commercial use. Chevrolet View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Honda was knocked off the top-earning motorcycle brand in the US by Kawasaki. Team Green crushed the competition, and I have a theory as to why.View the full article

MV Agusta’s new strategy looks to introduce cheaper models that could boost stability or spark controversy.View the full article

A Fresh Start After Theta IIWhen the Genesis GV80 was launched around five years ago, it came with a new 2.5-liter turbocharged Smartstream four-cylinder, effectively replacing the troubled 2.4-liter Theta II in Hyundai Motor Group's lineup of power plants. The latter had become infamous for recalls, oil consumption complaints, and sudden failures, so, on paper, the new motor looked like a clear improvement. Known internally as the G4KR, the 2.5-liter Smartstream makes 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, numbers that comfortably move the GV80 without feeling strained. It also came with modern updates like dual injection, using both port and direct injectors to improve efficiency and reduce carbon buildup. Reliability, however, was a mystery – something that owners will attest to after years of ownership. There was a previous recall tied to fuel pump issues across Hyundai Motor Group products, though it wasn't specific to the four-cylinder Smartstream. For one GV80 owner, however, that uncertainty became real when their engine locked solid at just around 30,000 miles. Inside the Prematurely Locked-Up EngineAs always, our favorite engine CSI, I Do Cars on YouTube, initiated this engine teardown. On the stand, the engine was completely seized, refusing to rotate in either direction. From there, the teardown took an unexpected turn. The valve cover came off to reveal an extremely clean valvetrain, with healthy-looking cams, rollers, and timing components. The timing chain system looked almost new, and there were no signs of oil starvation up top. Pulling the cylinder head didn't change much. The pistons showed no valve contact, the combustion chambers looked even, and bore wear was present but not extreme for the mileage. The oil filter was nearly spotless, with no obvious metallic debris. It wasn't until the teardown reached the bottom end that the real damage surfaced. The connecting rod bearings had catastrophically failed. Several were effectively welded to the crankshaft journals, completely locking the engine. Once the rods were disconnected, the crank would finally turn. The damage pattern was consistent across cylinders and unmistakable. I Do Cars/YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article A Simple Human MistakeUnfortunately, this teardown shows that the engine problem wasn't due to a design flaw. The rod bearings evidently failed without the typical signs of prolonged oil starvation, and the upper engine remained largely untouched. That strongly suggests the engine was started and run without oil, possibly after an oil change in which the engine was drained but not refilled before start-up. Preventing this kind of failure comes down to the basics. Oil refills during service should always be checked by verifying oil pressure after maintenance, and don't assume a warning light will save an engine in time. Modern engines can destroy themselves in seconds without lubrication. In this case, the Smartstream 2.5 looks fundamentally sound, but even good hardware can't survive a simple human mistake. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

An engine control software issue could cause the engines in these bikes to stall at low RPMs, increasing the risk of a crash and/or injury.View the full article

It's good to have dreams, but sometimes they carry a higher MSRP than we can handle. But do they have to? That depends on if you're a gambler.View the full article

Subaru's First FWD SUVWith the exception of the BRZ, every Subaru you'll purchase in the US comes with all paws running. That includes the Solterra EV, which, like the BRZ, was developed with Toyota. Subaru is now breaking that AWD tradition with the introduction of the Uncharted – its new entry-level EV that's priced right and specced right despite not having a symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system like other Subaru SUVs. The key headline here is price. The 2026 Subaru Uncharted starts at $34,995 for the Premium FWD trim, making it the cheapest EV in Subaru's lineup and undercutting the Solterra by over $3,000. The Sport and GT trims are priced at $39,795 and $43,795, respectively. Obviously, the Uncharted Premium FWD, despite the name, isn't off-road flex or a halo EV. It's a practical, city-friendly electric crossover aimed at buyers who care more about range and affordability than trail ratings. Subaru says this version will be sold in limited numbers, acknowledging that AWD is still the brand's comfort zone, but the option is finally there for shoppers who don't need it. Subaru Familiar Shape, Cleaner DetailsVisually, the Uncharted feels like a close cousin of the Toyota's C-HR, and that's not accidental. It's shorter than the Solterra, more compact overall, and a little tidier in its proportions. Ground clearance still sits at a Subaru-like 8.2 inches, so it doesn't abandon the brand's outdoorsy posture, even if its mission is more urban. Inside, the cabin leans modern and tech-forward rather than rugged. A 14-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard and comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru EyeSight, a distraction mitigation system, and a power rear liftgate are all included across the lineup. Even the base Premium FWD gets dual wireless phone chargers, a digital key, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control. Step up to the Sport and GT, and the Uncharted leans more upscale. StarTex upholstery, a 360-degree camera system, traffic assist features, memory seating, and larger wheels help justify the price jump. The GT goes further with a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, and exclusive two-tone paint options. Subaru Competitively Priced Against RivalsThe powertrain lineup is straightforward. The front-wheel-drive Uncharted produces 221 horsepower and delivers more than 300 miles of estimated range, which is the big payoff for skipping AWD. The Sport and GT use a dual-motor setup with 338 horsepower, Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and X-Mode, with range dropping to around 285 miles and 270 miles, respectively. All versions share a 74.7-kWh battery, an 11-kW onboard charger, and a 150-kW DC fast-charging limit. Subaru claims a 10 to 80 percent charge in under 30 minutes under ideal conditions. The standard NACS port means Tesla Supercharger access from day one. Against rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV, the Uncharted holds its own on power while staying aggressive on pricing. Of note, the 133-hp Kona Electric starts at $32,975 with an EPA-estimated 200-mile driving range, while the 201-hp Kira Niro EV offers up to 253 miles at $39,600. Comparing the numbers, we'd say the Subaru Uncharted is a pretty good deal. Toyota View the full article

The Torque Test Channel is one of my go to spots online when it comes to researching tools before I buy them. This is especially true of cordless tools, but any tools that are on their lists are thoroughly tested with results you can trust. Video Description: Lifetime of weekly updated rankings: https://torquetestchannel.etsy.com/li… 10th: Tagged to video 9th: https://amzn.to/4iHf5DF 8th: https://amzn.to/49TxD1b 7th M18: https://amzn.to/4pkNdb5 DeWALT: https://amzn.to/3Ke25c1 , https://amzn.to/4pSXCKU (we’ve not seen any tabless fakes yet, but if you get one we’ll buy it off you) 6th: https://b2b.snapon.com/category/887830 5th: Tagged to video 4th: https://amzn.to/428BK4D , https://amzn.to/4iDaW3H , https://amzn.to/46bsf73 3rd: https://amzn.to/4mZfClZ Large: https://amzn.to/42d8ycS Small: https://amzn.to/42eqMdX 2nd: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FPMPBSLL?… 1st: Tagged to video We do not accept any tools shown on the channel from any brand, nor do we take any sponsorships, partnerships, discounts, product placement deals, pre-market brand samples, money, items or compensation of any kind from brands, tool makers or otherwise in the planning or creation of these videos. The post Top Tools of 2025: Check Out The Torque Test Channel’s Best Performers From 2025’s Tool Testing And Reviews. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Chad Green posts up some pretty cool stuff sometimes, like this new video explaining how to drive a funny car. Yep, watch this video and he’s going to walk you through what a real weekend is like racing one of these beasts. Step inside the world of an NHRA Nitro Funny Car team. Video Description: Go behind the scenes at the biggest drag race in the world! The 2025 NHRA U.S. Nationals. From August 28th through September 1st in Indianapolis, Chad Green Motorsports brings you four intense days of Nitro Funny Car racing, from the pits to the starting line and inside the driver’s seat. Watch Chad Green’s POV cockpit footage as he straps into his 12,000-horsepower Nitro Funny Car, walking you through what it’s really like to drive one of the most powerful machines on earth. Experience the heart-pounding action, late-night thrashes, and raw emotion that define NHRA drag racing at its highest level. This is the U.S. Nationals like you’ve never seen before — unfiltered, up close, and all access with Chad Green Motorsports. The post How To Drive A 330 MPH Nitro Funny Car | 4 Days At The World’s Biggest Drag Race With Chad Green Motorsports appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

There's a particular flavor of sanctimonious bullshit that's infected the overlanding community, and honestly, I'm tired of pretending it's not ridiculous. You know the type - the adventure purists who've appointed themselves the Supreme Court of What Counts , complete with arbitrary rules, minimum requirements, and a smugness that could fuel a small power grid. According to these self-appointed judges, your week-long backcountry trip through the Rockies doesn't qualify. Your carefully...View the full article

The Second-Generation Seltos DebutsThe Kia Seltos has been part of the North American small SUV conversation since the first-generation model arrived for the 2021 model year. Now, Kia is ready to move the nameplate forward – the second-generation Kia Seltos has made its global debut ahead of a wider market rollout next year, and it’s clear this isn’t just a light refresh. Kia is positioning the new Seltos as a more confident and more expressive entry in its lineup, borrowing visual cues and attitude from the bigger and recently redesigned 2027 Telluride. The idea is simple enough: keep the Seltos approachable and city-friendly, but give it the presence and polish buyers increasingly expect, even at the lower end of the SUV spectrum. Kia Bigger Proportions, Louder DesignCompared to the outgoing Seltos, which measures 172.8 inches long on a 103.5-inch wheelbase, the new model takes a clear step up in footprint. Kia says the new Seltos stretches to about 174.4 inches long, rides on a longer 105.9-inch wheelbase, and grows wider to roughly 72.0 inches. Height remains right around 63.0 inches, maintaining a compact stance while freeing up interior space. The exterior design leans into Kia’s newer “Opposites United” philosophy, with a wider grille, vertical lighting elements, and sharper body surfacing. Flush door handles appear for the first time on Seltos, while available X-Line and GT-Line trims push either a rugged or sportier look. Overall, the new proportions help the Seltos look less delicate and more like a scaled-down Telluride rather than an overgrown hatchback. Kia Interior Upgrades That MatterInside, Kia has clearly aimed to modernize the cabin without overcomplicating it. A new horizontal dashboard layout helps open up the space, while dual 12.3-inch displays dominate the driver’s view. A column-mounted shift-by-wire setup frees up the center console, which should make daily usability better rather than just looking slick. Tech features include over-the-air updates, a next-generation Kia AI assistant powered by ChatGPT, and available premium audio systems. On the safety front, the new Seltos brings an expanded suite of driver-assistance tech, including Highway Driving Assist 2, upgraded forward collision avoidance, and surround-view monitoring on higher trims. Kia Expect US Arrival in Time For the 2027 Model YearThe second-generation Kia Seltos will be offered with multiple gasoline powertrain options across global markets. The range is led by a high-output 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. A standard-output version of the 1.6-liter turbo delivers 177 hp with 195 lb-ft of torque, available with a 6-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic transmission, depending on market. A 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder remains part of the global lineup, rated at 146 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, and paired primarily with a CVT automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive offered on select trims, bringing a multi-link rear suspension and selectable drive modes. Like the redesigned Telluride, the new Seltos will go on sale as a 2027 model-year vehicle in North America. With the 2026 Seltos already announced for the US, launch timing is expected in the second half of next year. Kia View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Cruz Pedregon Racing announced today the addition of two highly respected veterans of the sport, Terrance “Rip” Reynolds and Chris “Warrior” Kullberg, to its 2026 Nitro Funny Car operation. Both bring decades of winning experience, proven leadership, and a history of success within the NHRA. Reynolds and Kullberg are no strangers to Cruz Pedregon Racing. Each has previously worked with the team at various points throughout their careers, contributing to on-track victories and championship-caliber performances. Their return marks a renewed commitment to elevating CPR’s competitive strength as the organization prepares for a competitive 2026 season. “It’s rewarding to have Rip and Warrior back with us,” said team owner and driver Cruz Pedregon. “We’ve continued a great relationship with both of these guys who are winners. They know what it takes to compete at the highest level, and they bring exactly the kind of leadership, structure, and organizational strength we’ve been looking to add. This is a big step toward where we want to be in 2026, and I couldn’t be more motivated for what lies ahead.” Reynolds and Kullberg are set to play instrumental roles in the team’s development, helping guide CPR’s technical direction, performance goals, and day-to-day execution as the organization pushes to make a major leap next season. Cruz Pedregon Racing will continue its 2026 preparations in the coming months on the Snap-on® Dodge® Hellcat® Nitro Funny Car and looks forward to returning to the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series with renewed energy, sharpened focus, and an expanded leadership team ready to deliver results. This story was originally published on December 9, 2025. The post Cruz Pedregon Racing Welcomes Terrance ‘Rip’ Reynolds, Chris ‘Warrior’ Kullberg For 2026 NHRA Season first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

In a move aimed at strengthening the current program for the upcoming NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season, SCAG Racing is excited to welcome Aaron Brooks as Crew Chief to the Bluebird Turf/Dave Richards Funny Car team. Brooks, who started as a crew guy and worked his way up the drag racing ladder, has many years of experience as a crew chief in both nitro classes. Brooks’ reputation for maximizing resources and mentoring crew members has made him a respected figure in drag racing and a great addition to the Bluebird Turf team. The entire Bluebird Team welcomes the change and is looking forward to a successful 2026 season. No other changes will be made to the team. “I am extremely excited to have Aaron join our team,” said Dave Richards. “He brings a lot of veteran experience that’s going to elevate our team right away. It’s a great fit as he’s already worked with Jay Ryskey and Glen Huszar, and I know these guys are going to gel instantly. I’m going to work hard this off-season physically and mentally to bring my best to the driver’s seat, and I’m planning on a breakthrough year for this Bluebird Turf team. Can’t wait to get started testing for this year.” For Brooks, the decision to work with Dave Richards and the Bluebird Funny Car team brings familiarity and a new chapter of opportunities. “I’m excited to join the team,” Brooks commented. “I’ve known the Richards brothers for a while now, and I know they are diehard racers. I’m looking forward to the season working with them and the guys, and hopefully we can make big strides with the Bluebird car.” The Bluebird Turf/Dave Richards Funny Car Team will debut with Brooks at the season-opening NHRA Gatornationals in March 2026 in Gainesville, Florida. This story was originally published on December 9, 2025. The post Aaron Brooks Joins Dave Richards, Bluebird Turf Funny Car Team first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Buddy Hull today announced he will be returning to the role of NHRA team owner and driver for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and beyond under the Hull Racing banner. The business owner from Dallas, Texas, parted ways with Jim Dunn Racing after two seasons behind the wheel of their iconic Funny Car. Hull has assembled a complete racing operation and will be ready for the season opening Gatornationals, March 6-8, 2026, at historic Gainesville Raceway. “I want to thank Jim Dunn Racing for the opportunity to race a nitro Funny Car full-time,” said Hull, who raced to numerous quarterfinal finishes over the past two seasons. “After the experiences of the past two seasons the time was right for me to take ownership of my career and brand. I have a lot of business opportunities on and off the track and this was the perfect time to take the next step in my Funny Car career.” Hull will continue to compete in the Funny Car class with his own Funny Car team led by crew chiefs Mike Guger and Johnny West. He currently has two complete Funny Cars at his Dallas area shop, and the team will be testing in advance of the 2026 season with plans to be a consistent mid-3.90 Funny Car in what is shaping up to be very competitive Funny Car field. “I have worked with Mike for a number of years and adding the expertise of Johnny West to my team will give us a great 1-2 punch,” said Hull. “We will be ready to go every qualifying session and every elimination round. I am excited for the future, and we have some great marketing partners that will be along for the ride.” Hull will continue to build his brand off the track with his award-winning television show Talkin’ Funny Cars with Buddy Hull as well as additional marketing events and programs. The team will be making sponsorship announcements during the 2026 PRI Show in Indianapolis this week. More announcements will continue throughout the offseason leading up to the Gatornationals. Fans can stay up to date by going to HullRacing.com or following Hull on social media. For more information and future announcements visit www.hullracing.com This story was originally published on December 9, 2025. The post Buddy Hull Building For The Future With Announcement of Return to Team Ownership first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Heading into 2026 after one of the most successful seasons in Texas Motorplex history, the world famous all-concrete race track and multi-use facility will be looking to expand its family friendly events and races this season. With a long history of hosting some of the biggest drag racing events in the country and on the heels of one of the largest music festivals in the state of Texas last year, the 6th annual Stampede of Speed, October 9-14, will once again feature the fastest motorsports in the world during the 41st Texas Fall Nationals, October 14-18 and the biggest names in country music October 9-11 during the Stars of Texas Music Festival. The track will also host a wide variety of national and regional events including the NHRA Right Trailers Junior Dragster Western Conference Finals. These two signature national events will be surrounded by nationally recognized multi-day races TX2K26, the NHRA Double Divisional and GT-R Festival. The entire 2026 event schedule was released in advance of the Performance Racing Industry Show in Indianapolis. “So much planning went into the 40th NHRA Texas Fall Nationals and 5th Stampede of Speed that we are carrying that momentum into 2026,” said Christie Meyer Johnson, Texas Motorplex co-owner. “This is the 75th year of the NHRA so we will be highlighting legends that have impacted the sport in Texas. We are going to continue to work with promoters to bring family friendly regional and national series that keep fans entertained and provide exciting racing action throughout the year.” “Our goal is to host fun and high value events for the fans and the racers. I love the fact that we will have almost every type of race car on the track in 2026 from bracket cars to trucks to imports to 340 mph Top Fuel dragsters. We are thrilled to have TX2K and Funny Car Chaos back as well as the NHRA Right Trailers Western Conference Junior Dragster Nationals,” said Meyer Johnson. “The return of TX2K26, Funny Car Chaos and GT-R Festival will bolster a strong schedule that has something for everyone in 2026.” Highlight events in 2026 will include: Texas Motorplex Bracket Series (February 27-March 1, April 24-26, June 27-28 and July 24-25) Texas Motorplex will host four bracket events, the season opening event in February, a spring event in April, the mid-season June race and a July event highlighting the best local and regional racers competing for big money. TX2K26 (March 17-22) Recognized as the super bowl of street car events this nearly week-long race returns to Texas Motorplex, TX2K26 will consist of six action-packed days of motorsports, including test-and-tune, qualifying and elimination rounds for drag racing, roll racing and related contests. Funny Car Chaos Classic (April 9-11) Featuring nitro burning cars from Funny Car Chaos and Nitro Chaos, this mega-event is a crowd pleaser. This throwback event highlights the Funny Cars from the past with the thrill of high-speed performance. NHRA Double Divisional (May 14-17) The NHRA Lucas Oil Double Divisional will feature the future NHRA stars in Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car battling for critical championship points. Four full days of racing action will kick off the summer season. Right Trailers NHRA Junior Dragster Western Conference Finals (June 6-14) The Western Conference Junior Dragster Nationals is a major NHRA Jr. Drag Racing League event where young racers from tracks in the western United States compete for individual honors and a team championship. Racers are selected to represent their local tracks and the event features different age categories for participants from 6-17 years old. Stampede of Speed and NHRA Fall Nationals (October 9-18) The 41st NHRA Texas Fall Nationals will anchor the Stampede of Speed and feature concerts, bull riding, lantern festival, beer expo and racing with more drag racing leading up to the cornerstone event of the Motorplex schedule. Fans will be treated to every NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series pro categories, as well as the premiere Lucas Oil categories, the JEGS All-Stars and Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown season finale race. Fans can purchase tickets by calling 1-800-MOTORPLEX or ordering at www.texasmotorplex.com. 2026 Event Schedule February 27 – March 1 – Texas Motorplex Bracket Series March 7 – Truck Convoy March 8 – Import Face Off March 17-22 – TX2K26 April 9-11 – Funny Car Chaos Classic April 17-18 – Popeye Sailorman Productions Street Car Rise of the Beast April 19 – RaceWars April 24-26 – Texas Motorplex Bracket Series May 9 – Street Madness May 14-17 – NHRA Lucas Oil Double Divisional May 22-24 – Flicker Promotions Bracket Series Spring Stampede May 29-30 – Street Car Takeover June 6-14 – NHRA Right Trailers Western Conference Finals June 20 – Texas Whipfest June 27-28 – Texas Motorplex Bracket Series July 24-25 – Texas Motorplex Bracket Series September 4-6 – Flicker Promotions Bracket Series LeTexan Lasso September 11-13 – NHRA Div 4 Bracket Finals September 18-19 – Hood 2 Hood Picnic September 25-26 – NHRDA Diesel World Finals October 9-18 – Stampede of Speed October 9-11 – Stars of Texas Music Festival October 14-18 – NHRA Texas Fall Nationals October 29-31 – Texas Radial Round Up November 7 – Texas Truck Invasion November 8 – Import Face Off November 13-15 – GT-R Festival USA December 5 – T&E Promotions Street Car Showdown This story was originally published on December 9, 2025. The post Diverse, Family Friendly Events Fill 2026 Texas Motorplex Schedule first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

There has been a constant theme over the past week as it pertains to the testimony of senior NASCAR officials under examination from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports lead attorney Jeffrey Kessler. The official is asked a series of specific questions about their knowledge of something that should fall under their authority. The official then deflects with a ‘I don’t know’ or ‘I ...Keep readingView the full article

2025 St. George MCC Summer Series Round One – SMP With Nick Edards – Images by Half Light The sixth season of the St. George MCC Summer Nights series (SNS06 for short) opened with Round One at Sydney Motorsport Park on Saturday, December 6. Daytime temps were drifting into 40C+ territory, and the threat of […] The post Recapping a big St. George MCC Summer Series opener from SMP appeared first on MCNews. View the full article