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Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 Mana Black review While the Himalayan 450 (Himi) has been available to punters down under for 18 months or thereabouts, I hadn’t had the opportunity to throw the leg over one until now. But plenty of Aussies have and have obviously liked what they saw! I’m told they’ve shifted close to […] The post Royal Enfield Himalayan Mana Black 450 review appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Garelli Motorcycles Engineer Adalberto Garelli established his company in Milan in 1919 after a decade of steadily accumulated experience in the Italian motor industry. He began his career at Fiat, where he focused on two-stroke engine development at a time when such designs were still evolving. In 1912 he moved to Bianchi and designed a […] The post Garelli Motorcycles – An illustrated history appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Stark claims altitude record with Jiri Zak Stark Future and Swiss mountaineer-rider Jiri Zak have completed a 6,721-metre altitude record attempt on Los Ojos del Salado, the world’s highest active volcano. Rumour has it that a local family on a million-mile-old CT90 rode past just after this image was taken…(joke) Ojos del Salado, rising to […] The post Stark claims highest altitude record with ascent of Los Ojos del Salado appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

A little help from the FrenchIn a statement released early on December 9, Ford announced that it has entered a "strategic partnership" with the Renault Group to advance the next phase of what it bills as its "European transformation," as it recommits to its customers in the region with a new strategy. According to the announcement, the Blue Oval and its new French allies have agreed to jointly develop two Ford-branded vehicles based on Renault's Ampere platform, aiming to build new cars efficiently using a shared architecture. Ford says its newfound partnership will combine the Oval's and Renault's expertise, industrial scale, and supply base while delivering the efficiency and production scale needed to compete in Europe, a region it describes as "highly dynamic." Despite its commitment to using Renault's technology in its new project, Ford says it will lead the design of the upcoming models and ensure they have the driving characteristics befitting the badge. “Our plan is about unleashing the Blue Oval,” said Jim Baumbick, president, Ford Europe. “We are leveraging strategic partnerships to ensure competitiveness, but we are obsessing over the product. These will be fun-to-drive, fully connected vehicles that stand out from the crowd.” View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article This isn't Ford's nor Renault's first rodeo with platform sharingFord's European lineup differs significantly from its United States lineup, as it doesn't officially sell any pickup trucks or body-on-frame large SUVs, such as the Expedition, in the region. In recent years, it has been expanding its electric portfolio with models like the Puma Gen-E hatchback and has enlisted Volkswagen's help to enhance its EV offerings. Recently, it introduced the Explorer, an EV based on the Volkswagen ID.4, and reintroduced the Capri as a sloped-back, fastback-style electric crossover based on VW's ID.5. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The first of two vehicles based on Renault's Ampere platform is scheduled to arrive in early 2028; however, Ford and Renault were mum about any further details regarding these models. Renault is no stranger to platform sharing, as its AmpR platforms underpin a variety of electric vehicles sold in markets outside the EU. Renault's AmpR Small platform underpins smaller cars, including the Renault Twingo, the Renault 4, Renault 5, Alpine A290, and the Nissan Micra. Meanwhile, Renault's bigger AmpR Medium platform is used to build the Renault Megane, Renault Scenic, Alpine A390, and the Nissan Ariya. In addition to working on its passenger cars, Ford also noted that it has signed a letter of intent with Renault to develop and manufacture small vans. Kyle Grillot/Bloomberg via Getty Images Ford calls on the EU to enact realistic emissions regulations.In the same statement announcing its partnership with the French automaker, Ford noted that its broader European strategy is "designed to navigate Europe's evolving CO2 emission regulations," as it aims to provide its loyal customer base with a choice of electrified vehicles, whether full-on EVs or hybrids. At the same time, the company proposed three steps to the EU, which it claims are crucial to achieving its CO2 targets. First, it proposed to "align CO2 targets with actual market adoption," and also provide automakers with a "realistic and reliable 10-year planning horizon," which it says could give customers the option to drive hybrid vehicles for longer if they aren't ready to switch to an EV. Ford also proposed that European governments must match the "hundreds of billions" that continental manufacturers have poured into EVs, in the form of buyers' incentives and a "charging infrastructure that extends beyond wealthy urban centres into the rural heartland." In addition, the Oval called on the EU to ease its "Aggressive CO2 targets," calling them an "economic tax on the backbone of Europe" that targets small businesses like plumbers, florists, and builders; businesses it claims to "generate more than 50% of Europe’s GDP." “We need to enable everyone to benefit from electrification and letting customers choose – whether that’s fully electric or hybrid vehicles,” Baumbick said. “It is about making the transition more attractive and more affordable for all consumers and businesses, stimulating demand rather than stifling it.” Related: Ford CEO Warns Europe Its EV Rules Are “Risking the Future” of Its Own Carmakers Final ThoughtsDespite its American roots, Ford is considered a major contributor to the European auto market, as it has a history of selling cars that shaped motoring on the continent. This announcement comes shortly after Ford CEO Jim Farley warned in a Financial Times op-ed that aggressive emissions targets, local-content demands, and shifting bans on combustion engines in the EU are creating an environment that makes it harder to invest in new vehicles and factories. Specifically, he pointed out that while European policymakers call for a sustainable auto industry through "unrealistic regulations," these regulations create a "recipe for turmoil" when changes occur frequently and "consumers do not show up." "On one side, we face the world’s most aggressive carbon mandates, regulations that demand a pace of electrification that is decoupled from the reality of consumer demand," Farley said. "On the other, we face a flood of state-subsidized EV imports from China, structurally designed to undercut European labour and manufacturing." Related: New Tech Could Make Drunk Driving in a BMW a Thing of the Past View the full article

Kris Wright has signed a deal that will see him competing full-time in 2026, driving the No. 81 McAnally-Hilgemann (MHR) Racing Chevrolet. Wright parted ways with Our Motorsports in the middle of the 2025 NASCAR Xfinity Series season, and has since made appearances in a handful of Truck and ARCA races. He has 49 starts in the NCTS, and both of his 2025 starts came with MHR. He finished 26th ...Keep readingView the full article

There's a new recall out for a handful of Volkswagen SUVs, and it's serious enough for VW to issue a Do Not Drive warning. According to documentation from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, three of VW's SUVs are impacted, all from the 2026 model year. The compact Volkswagen ID.4 and the midsize three-row Volkswagen Atlas, along with its two-row Atlas Cross Sport sibling, have been recalled for a problem that could cause their wheels to literally fall off. The NHTSA has been informed that the incorrect wheel bolts may have been installed during manufacturing, and insecure wheels could loosen while the vehicle is on the move, increasing the risk of a crash. A Small Number of VW SUVs Are at Risk Volkswagen The recall report says that only 27 vehicles across all three model lines are potentially impacted. It also says that the incorrect wheel bolts - the fault of a parts mixing error at the supplier - can be spotted with a visual inspection, which VW will, of course, carry out at no cost to the owner, following which the correct wheel bolts will be installed. Drivers may notice a "rattling noise, vibration, or a change in vehicle handling," and due to the inherent risks associated with this issue, VW asks owners to contact their nearest authorized dealer for immediate assistance in having their vehicles transported to the dealership for the recall repair. In other words, don't drive your ID.4 or Atlas to the dealer. Those impacted by this recall can already determine if that is the case by searching their VIN, and dealers were notified of the recall last week. However, owners will only be notified of the remedy on January 30, 2026. This is Not VW's First Strange Recall Volkswagen Something as simple as a wheel bolt shouldn't be a problem, but it's easy to understand how it happened. After all, wheel bolts tend to look alike. Still, this isn't the first unusual recall that VW has faced, nor indeed the first for the ID.4 in particular. Late in 2023, the electric crossover was recalled over flammable sunshades, of all things. And early last year, VW recalled five years' worth of Golf-based vehicles due to a fuel leak that could also cause a fire. A similar issue hit VW-owned Porsche, Lamborghini, and Audi earlier this year, but at least recalls for the German conglomerate's products have been relatively rare. Japanese Toyota and American Ford, for example, have not been so lucky. View the full article

Few motorcycles have defined a subculture as completely as the Harley-Davidson Sportster. Launched in 1957, the Sportster wasn't just another model; it was Harley-Davidson’s answer to the burgeoning performance imports coming from Europe. Built around the powerful, unit-construction Evolution V-twin... View the full article

With the announcement of the V16-powered Tourbillon, Bugatti put an end to speculation that its Chiron successor might be a rebodied Rimac Nevera, but even so, the ultra-luxury automaker has been forced to adopt a form of electrification with the hybrid system supporting that enormous engine. And according to a report from Autocar, it may be embracing further electrification, though the form it will take is unclear. The British publication reports, following a discussion with Rimac Group Chief Operating Officer Nurdin Pitarevic, that Rimac is in the advanced stages of producing solid-state batteries, and that these are expected to be on the market by the end of the decade. Specifically, their first application will be in a new Bugatti model, due in 2030. What Bugatti Might Be Working On Bugatti The Bugatti Chiron debuted in 2016 and stayed in production until 2024, thanks to various special editions. Presumably, the Tourbillon will have a similar lifecycle, though that's far from explicitly confirmed. The Toubillon was unveiled last year, and final deliveries are expected to take place sometime in 2029. Thus, it's not inconceivable to imagine that this new solid-state battery may be earmarked for a Tourbillon final edition, like a Super Sport model, for example, or it could find a home in that car's replacement. Or maybe even a differently named derivative (as the Divo, Centodieci, and Bolide were). It would make sense for an ultralight, ultra-high-energy-density battery to be implemented in the ultimate version of the Tourbillon, but could it have another, all-electric application for Molsheim's famed manufacturer? The European Union is reportedly backing down from its 2035 combustion ban, moving it back to 2040, so an EV is unlikely to be strictly necessary, but that doesn't mean it's not worth developing. Mate Rimac Has Hinted at the Timing of a Bugatti EV Bugatti-Rimac Not too long ago, Bugatti-Rimac CEO Mate Rimac told German outlet Automobilwoche that neither an SUV nor an EV would be produced by the French brand within the following decade. That promise was made in 2022, and although it delighted fans of the internal combustion engine to know that Bugatti would not build an EV anytime soon, hindsight may suggest that Mr. Rimac was already aware of the timeframe in which a Bugatti EV would arrive; was he hinting that an EV would be presented around or shortly after 2030? As much as legislation has seesawed over the last five years and currently seems to favor continued combustion, it makes sense for a world-leading brand like Bugatti to be prepared for any eventuality and offer the best of any permissible automotive technology. And while purists may not like the idea, even McLaren and Bentley have begun work on electrified SUVs because these are easier to drive every day than hypercars and supercars. In a nutshell, Bugatti may be working on a unusually light all-electric car of some sort, or it may simply be preparing an even more impressive hybrid than the already astonishing Tourbillon, but either way, that new vehicle arriving in 2030 will change the game for electrified technology. View the full article

Can a Color be Iconic?To answer that question, we're inclined to say yes. Mention the words Guards Red, Championship White, or Bayside Blue to any car enthusiast, and chances are they're already visualizing what car is draped in those colors. That brings us neatly to BMW. One of the most memorable colors to grace its products is Fire Orange. For the US market, that was applied to the E92 M3 Lime Rock Park Edition. In other parts of the world, that was on the limited-run M3 GTS from the same era. BMW Meanwhile, in South KoreaIt's been a while since BMW offered Fire Orange to customers out in the open. However, over in South Korea, the company held a Create Your Own BMW Edition contest back in May. The top five most-voted designs would reach production and later be sold in limited numbers there. One of the winners was a BMW M5 Sedan finished in, you guessed it, Fire Orange. Only five units of these cars will be sold in South Korea at around $128,000 apiece, guaranteeing collector status. Aside from the unique color, it also gets the Bowers & Wilkins sound system, along with an anthracite headliner and seats trimmed in Kyalami Orange. It also comes with carbon ceramic brakes and the M Driver's Package that raises the speed governor to 190 mph. BMW The Other Contest WinnersThe other winners included a pair of BMW M2 coupes. One is painted Voodoo Blue, while the other is Frozen Portimao Blue. Like the M5, those cars are limited to just five units for South Korea, and both cars are equipped with automatics instead of a manual. As for the other two, there's the X5 xDrive40i M Sport in Dravit Grey, and the other is an X3 20 xDrive in Dune Grey. Yes, Dune Grey is a regular color in the American X3s, but apparently not the case in South Korea. Both are limited to 30 units each. BMW You Can Build Your Own Fire Orange M Car, TooYou don't have to move to Korea to get the chance to get these exclusive and limited-run models, though. You can order an M5, or even better, the popular but pricey M5 Touring in any color from BMW's past catalog. That said, it's not an option in the American configurator, but anything's possible given enough cash and your closeness to your BMW sales executive. There's more fun to be had in the German configurator, though. There, we visualized a Fire Orange M5 Touring and, well, it's quite the result. BMW BMW View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Well-Preserved ClassicThe Ford gained significant momentum in the muscle car war when it introduced the Mustang Mach 1 in 1969, giving buyers a more performance-oriented entry into the pony-car segment. More than five decades later, finding a well-preserved example has become increasingly difficult, which makes this listing on Bring a Trailer particularly noteworthy. This 1971 Mustang Mach 1 shows just around 5,200 miles on the odometer, well under half of what the average American drives in a year. Even more remarkable is its ownership history. The car remained with its original owner until his passing in 2020, after which it was acquired by the selling dealer four years later. Now, this iconic model – which once went head-to-head with rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro SS and Dodge Challenger R/T – appears ready for a new start. Bring A Trailer What This Mustang Mach 1 PacksThe 1971 model represents the first major mid-cycle refresh of the Mustang Mach 1. This particular example sports a white over black finish paired with 15-inch Magnum 500 wheels. Its renowned fastback profile is reminiscent of “Eleanor” from 1974’s Gone in 60 Seconds (no, not the one with Nicolas Cage), although this unit does not appear to have the optional rear-window louvers. Inside, the cabin is appointed with high-back bucket seats featuring knit vinyl inserts and silver stripes, along with woodgrain accents, power steering, and an AM/FM stereo. A small but charming touch is the personalized plaque mounted behind the Hurst shifter, which reads: “This Mach 1 Especially Built For Marsha & John 8-16-71.” Under the hood sits a 5.8-liter (351 cu in) Cleveland V8, one of the more modest powertrain options offered that year, producing 285 horsepower. That’s about 85 hp shy of the 429 Cobra Jet models. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual transmission and a 3.25 Traction-Lok differential. Bring A Trailer Ready to ChargeThe seller reports that the four-barrel carburetor has been rebuilt, which should help deliver smoother idling and more responsive throttle response. Additional maintenance includes a new battery, fuel pump, fuel hose, and fresh oil. In a walk-around video, the seller also highlighted minor imperfections on the left-rear wheel well, hood, and roof, but none of which appear significant. He further clarified that the rear wing is mounted correctly, after early commenters questioned its placement based on a photo from the day the original owner bought the car. The Bring a Trailer listing is scheduled to end tomorrow, December 10, with bidding at $70,500 at the time of writing. Bring A Trailer View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Different Kind of Grenadier for a Different Kind of BuyerIneos may be struggling, but it's not stopping from offering something special to fans of rugged 4x4 machines with BMW engines and Defender personality. In fact, its latest offering caters to a more hardcore crowd – those who don't want a window, let alone a windshield. The Grenadier Game Viewer is a purpose-built safari vehicle developed by Ineos Kavango, the company's in-house conversion arm based in Botswana. First shown publicly as a concept at Goodwood Festival of Speed, Travel Indaba, and We Are Africa events throughout 2024, the open-air Grenadier quickly attracted interest from luxury safari operators, game reserves, and private estates across Africa, the US, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. It's now beyond the concept stage, with series production scheduled to begin in early 2026. Ineos Built for the Bush, Not for ShowroomsThe Grenadier Game Viewer starts life at Ineos' Hambach plant in France, where long- and extra-long wheelbase models are supplied in partial-build form. These donor vehicles skip paint, rear seating, glazing, roof panels, trim, and unnecessary electronics before being shipped to Botswana for conversion. Importantly, no chassis changes are required. The ladder-frame remains untouched, preserving the Grenadier's strength and durability. Depending on wheelbase and layout, buyers can specify between four and nine rear passenger seats, with extensive customization available for seating tiers, storage solutions, and roof designs. No windows installed. Okay, there's a windshield, but you can fold it forward for maximum connection with elements. As opposed to traditional safari conversions (no, not the off-road-going supercars), the Game Viewer is backed by a manufacturer's warranty. Operators can maintain the vehicles themselves without voiding coverage, provided approved procedures and genuine parts are used. Ineos Kavango also offers training, tooling, spares, and service plans, all with full component traceability. Ineos A Niche Product Amid Ineos' Current WoesWhile the Game Viewer showcases a different side of Ineos, we can't deny that the company is currently facing a challenge. The brand continues to face financial pressure, posting heavy losses even as sales have grown modestly. Specialty projects like this one won't change those fundamentals on their own, but they do reinforce what makes the Grenadier appealing to its core audience. As for availability, the vehicle is clearly targeted at commercial and institutional buyers, and there's no confirmation yet on whether it will be officially offered in the US. Any interest from American wildlife adventure junkie would likely face regulatory and pricing hurdles similar to standard Grenadier models. Ineos View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Never AgainThe Toyota GR GT reportedly won’t follow the same ultra-limited production playbook as the Lexus LFA. In a report by The Drive, GR GT Project Manager Takashi Doi said Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda regrets capping LFA production at just 500 units, a decision that ultimately made the Lexus supercar “out of reach.” With that in mind, the GR GT is expected to be more accessible to buyers, meaning production numbers and pricing will play a vital role in determining whether the project becomes a true success. Doi also noted that the team wants the upcoming Toyota halo supercar to be not only track-ready but also capable of passing on the joy of driving and the passion behind it to the next generation. Toyota Supercar Dreams Without Supercar ScarcityWhile the exact production figure remains unconfirmed, pricing for the in-development model is expected to exceed $200,000. That’s significantly lower than the LFA’s original $375,000 sticker, roughly $550,000 in today’s money. At that price point, Toyota could face serious competition, especially from one of today’s most respected benchmarks: the Porsche 911 GT3. Toyota must also think carefully about how it positions the car, as exclusive flagship models often turn into money pits for automakers. The LFA itself was reportedly an unprofitable project despite its legendary status and lasting influence on the brand. The GR GT will enter the market with a twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid engine and rear-wheel drive. Early estimates suggest it will make around 641 horsepower, though this figure could still change once the production model debuts around 2027. Additional highlights include an eight-speed automatic transmission and a dry-sump lubrication system. Exotic Car Trader A Promising Road AheadToyota also revealed a GT3-spec racing version, along with a Lexus-branded all-electric concept that hints at a possible future EV halo model. For enthusiasts who may not secure an allocation for the GR GT, Toyota continues to offer several mass-market performance models under the Gazoo Racing (GR) lineup, including the GR86 and GR Supra – though the latter is scheduled to be discontinued in March 2026, with a final edition already released. Toyota View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Polestar has one of the best value-for-money electric SUVs on the market right now, especially if you factor in its current discount. The mid-sized Polestar 3 normally starts at $67,500 – less than its Volvo cousin, but still in premium territory. While its coupe relative, the Polestar 4, retains its $54,900 price tag, the Polestar 3 benefits from the brand’s Clean Vehicle Incentive, bringing its price down to a level that undercuts most rivals in the luxury EV space. $18,000 Price Cut On A High-End EV Polestar Polestar’s Clean Vehicle Incentive offers qualifying buyers up to $18,000 off any 2025 Polestar 3 when financing through Polestar at a 2.99% APR. Leasing does not qualify. With the incentive applied, the single-motor, rear-wheel-drive model, which produces 299 hp and offers an estimated 350 miles of range, drops to $49,500 – lower than the average price of a new car in the United States. The discount also applies to the dual-motor lineup. The standard dual-motor model delivers 489 hp, 315 miles of range, and falls to $55,400 after the incentive. Buyers seeking more performance can step up to the dual-motor Performance Pack variant, rated at 517 hp with 279 miles of range, and it lands at $61,400 – below the usual cost of a base Polestar 3. The Competition After Accounting for the Discount Polestar BMW Porsche The Polestar 3 sits among rivals like the BMW iX3 and Porsche Macan Electric, all competing for the same premium EV customer. After the discount is applied, the pricing landscape changes completely. The Macan Electric starts at $78,000 and the iX3 at $60,000. Compare that to the $61,400 Polestar 3 Performance Pack, which can sprint from zero to sixty in 4.5 seconds. The iX3 takes 4.9 seconds and the base Macan Electric needs 5.4 seconds. The Polestar 3 also ships with more standard equipment in its top configuration, adding further value. Limited-Time Opportunity For Serious Savings Polestar Polestar’s $18,000 discount is available until January 2, 2026, and is clearly aimed at clearing remaining 2025 stock. That matters because the 2026 Polestar 3 brings major upgrades, including an 800-volt electrical system for faster charging, a revised battery pack for increased range, and significant power bumps across the range, almost touching the new Polestar 5 sedan's figures. The 2026 single-motor model will make 329 hp, the dual-motor 536 hp, and the Performance Pack 671 hp. So, if you want a premium electric SUV without paying premium-EV prices, the current 2025 Polestar 3 offer is one of the most compelling deals available. With the incentive factored in, you get a well-equipped, mid-size luxury EV tied to Volvo’s proven engineering at a price that’s hard to overlook. View the full article

Production ChallengesAutomotive manufacturing is one of the most challenging forms of assembly. This is an industry with (almost) zero tolerance for building quality products that give customers the best their money can buy. There are some instances, though, where quality control doesn't catch specific build quality issues that might sound minor at first but could actually cause more hassle and damage than initially thought. Lincoln Flashing LightsAccording to the Safety Recall Report issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there is a potential issue with the rear lightbar installed on the 2025 Lincoln Navigator. The report claims that "Affected vehicles are equipped with a rear lightbar that may have a cracked outer lens and/or weld track. This condition can allow water intrusion, leading to inoperative or flickering backup lamps. Vehicles with malfunctioning backup lamps fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108." Of note, Lincoln Navigators built from Aug 06, 2025, to December 26, 2025, are included in the recall, though only 1,105 units are affected. Furthermore, the report says that the affected vehicles were not produced in VIN order. A more descriptive cause for the malfunction is listed as, "Expendable cardboard dunnage was used for shipping certain rear lightbar assemblies. Some of the dunnage was damaged in transit during shipping and receiving, potentially causing cracks in the outer lens and/or weld track that allow water intrusion." Awareness and Safety IssuesVehicles with inoperative or flickering rear lamps can pose a safety issue, reducing awareness among other drivers of the affected vehicle, particularly when the driver wants to put the car in reverse. Another (potential) problem is that flashing lights can trigger seizures in certain motorists, posing a significant safety hazard on the road. This is the third recall listed for the 2025 model year of the Lincoln Navigator. In July, a small number of 2025 Navigators had passenger airbags that were incorrectly manufactured and could deploy with too much force. Just a month later, in August, another advisory came out stating that some Navigators were recalled for a potential loss of power-brake assist due to a faulty Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Nissan's Budget Sedan Getting a MakeoverThe Nissan Versa wasn't flashy, fast, or particularly tech-heavy, but it mattered because it was accessible. It held the title of Nissan's most affordable new vehicle and, for a time, the most affordable brand-new car you could buy in the US. After a major facelift in 2022 for the 2023 model year, the sedan carried on largely unchanged, even as rivals gradually abandoned the subcompact segment. That affordability story ended quietly when Nissan axed the manual transmission, but the Versa still remained a price leader deep into the 2025 model year. Now, leaked images circulating on social media are showing that Nissan isn't done with the nameplate just yet. Instead of another light refresh, the next Versa appears to be getting a redesign – at least at the front – even while sticking to the same basic platform as the current car. Josué Adán Granados/Facebook Looks Like a Baby MuranoThe restyled Versa was recently spotted in Mexico without camouflage, where it appeared to be filming a commercial. Photos were first shared in a Facebook group, which also appeared on Instagram, accompanied by a caption suggesting a full reveal is only months away. Design-wise, the changes are concentrated at the front fascia. From the side, the greenhouse, roofline, and overall profile look familiar, confirming heavy carryover underneath. Up front, though, the styling takes a clear detour toward Nissan's current crossover design language. The split LED headlights and glossy black grille immediately recall the new Murano, and in a familiar shade of blue, the resemblance is hard to miss. It comes across as a Murano that's been squashed down closer to the pavement. Out back, everything is still very familiar: black trim links the redesigned taillights and reappears around the bumper-mounted reflectors. A small exhaust outlet tucked under the rear bumper hints at continued use of a small-displacement engine. There's also a reworked trunk lid, with the license plate now mounted lower on the bumper than before. What to ExpectBecause the car was allegedly caught during an ad shoot, we expect an official debut sooner rather than later. Mechanically, the redesigned Versa should retain the familiar 1.6-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder and the existing transmission options, at least outside the US. If Nissan were to keep the Versa alive stateside, this new generation would likely arrive as a 2026 model. That remains a big "if," given ongoing profitability concerns and rising costs. Still, Versa is a strong seller in America; in fact, there's been a surge in demand for the model this year. As of Q3 2025, 41,463 units have been sold, representing a 41.5 percent year-over-year increase. Josué Adán Granados/Facebook View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Jeep is giving its smallest SUV more runway in Japan with the limited-run Renegade North Star Edition, a 150-unit special based on the Renegade Altitude e-Hybrid. The North Star pairs a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, sending power to the front wheels only. Priced at about 5.47 million yen ($34,900 USD) including tax, it aims to blend urban-friendly size with a tougher look, a standard panoramic roof and a more premium cabin than the regular Renegade, while also nudging the brand’s electrification plans forward in one of Asia’s most competitive small-crossover markets. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Hybrid-only, limited to 150 unitsThe Renegade North Star Edition uses Jeep’s mild-hybrid setup to provide electric assist at low speeds, smoother stop-start operation and a little extra shove when pulling away from lights, all for better fuel economy in city driving. Output mirrors other markets, at roughly 130 horsepower from the 1.5-liter engine, with the electric motor filling in torque at lower revs. The package is aimed more at light trails and gravel roads than hardcore off-roading, and the price premium over a standard Renegade reflects the extra kit and the fact this is a numbered, short-run model. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Technogreen paint and lifestyle-focused kitVisually, the North Star Edition leans into the lifestyle angle. It wears Jeep’s Technogreen metallic paint with a contrasting black roof and black exterior trim, 17-inch black wheels, full LED lighting and privacy glass. A dual-pane panoramic sunroof is standard, and there is unique North Star badging and hood graphics. Inside, the seats use high-resistance upholstery said to be more durable than the usual Altitude trim, with contrast stitching and specific logos. Standard gear includes a digital instrument cluster, Uconnect infotainment with smartphone integration and a suite of driver-assistance systems. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Why it matters for JeepJapan’s compact-SUV space is crowded with homegrown nameplates, so giving the Renegade a bit of limited-edition buzz helps keep it visible next to small crossovers from Toyota, Suzuki and others. Globally, Jeep still leans on bigger, pricier models to carry the brand image, whether that is shoppers chasing 2026 Jeep Wrangler lease deals or families cross-shopping in tests like the 2025 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee. At the same time, Stellantis is investing in electrification and new Jeep production, even as it faces political and financial friction in the region. In that context, the Renegade North Star Edition is one more small step that keeps Jeep’s hybrid range in the conversation, even in a market far from the U.S. heartland. View the full article

A New Jersey woman is suing Volvo Car USA and a Volvo employee after she says a hands-free power tailgate struck her in the head and left her with a traumatic brain injury. The lawsuit, filed in Superior Court of New Jersey in Ocean County, stems from an October 2023 hiking trip where plaintiff Megan Kohr was standing behind a Volvo SUV with its tailgate open. According to the complaint, a motion sensor under the rear bumper interpreted the movement of a dog walking behind the vehicle as a command to close the tailgate, which then allegedly swung shut and hit Kohr. She claims ongoing vision and balance problems, sensitivity to light and permanent injury, and is seeking damages for medical costs, lost income and long-term pain and suffering. Volvo What the lawsuit says went wrongThe SUV was equipped with a hands-free tailgate that can open or close with a simple kicking motion when the key is nearby. Kohr’s suit argues that the system is too easily triggered by unintended movement, including animals, and that it lacked adequate safeguards to prevent the tailgate from closing on someone standing in the opening. Her legal team also points to Volvo documentation describing “pinch protection” that is supposed to stop or reverse the tailgate if it encounters an obstruction, and says the fact it allegedly kept closing on her head shows a defect in design or performance. The employee named in the suit, a Volvo worker who was driving the company vehicle and owns the dog involved, is accused of negligence for allowing the dog to walk under the rear bumper despite knowing the sensor could activate the tailgate. Volvo, for its part, has moved to dismiss the claims against the company, arguing that the employee was off duty on a private outing, that the complaint fails to spell out a specific legal duty Volvo owed to Kohr, and that the allegations against the automaker are too vague to proceed. Volvo Why it matters for Volvo and smart tailgatesThe case comes as Volvo leans harder into its safety-first image and pushes more advanced SUVs and crossovers into the market, from bread-and-butter models attracting shoppers with current Volvo XC60 lease deals to wagon-like crossovers like the returning Volvo XC70. It also comes at a time when Volvo is recalling vehicles for an oddly specific reason. Beyond this one lawsuit, the dispute highlights a growing tension around convenience tech, that systems like kick-to-open tailgates are marketed as hands-free helpers in busy driveways and parking lots, but when they misread motion or fail to stop on contact, they can quickly become a safety and liability problem. Automakers of all kinds may face more pressure to show not just how these features work in ideal conditions, but how they behave around kids, pets and cluttered real-world environments. View the full article

Luke Bogacki will set his sights on the Top Dragster category, the three-time NHRA World Champion announced on social media Monday. He’ll pilot a Moser Engineering-backed American Race Cars dragster in 2026, with additional partnership from Advanced Product Design and Watts Auto Diesel Service. “To be honest, the term ‘Top Dragster’ might be a little strong, at least in the traditional sense” joked Bogacki. “We’re going to go fast – faster than I’ve ever been before – but we’re really just building a fast bracket car that can compete on the slower end of T/D.” The powerplant for this venture will come from APD: a 648 cubic inch engine featuring the Ohio-based manufacturer’s latest 16.5* cylinder head design, intake manifold, shaft rockers, and fuel system. Bogacki hopes to post E.T.’s in the 6.8-second range. “To be honest, our main focus in ‘26 is going to be the NHRA Division 3 Super Quick Series,” Bogacki explained. “Jessica and I have always been intrigued by the Super Quick stuff, and with the addition of Jr. Dragster classes to the series this season, we’ve got the unique opportunity to race as a family: all four of us competing at the same events. That’s really the motivation behind this project. We’ll run most of the Lucas Oil Division 3 events as well, but we’re really looking at this as more of a test season in Top Dragster, with an eye on pursuing that category with more vigor in ‘27.” With the addition of the new Top Dragster entry, the Bogacki family will campaign a trio of Moser Engineering-backed hot rods in NHRA competition: Jessica will wheel her Super Comp dragster, and Luke will compete in the Super Street category in his signature Vega as well. While Bogacki says he doesn’t intend to make a national title pursuit in 2026, he did mention that the team does plan to attend a full schedule of Division 3 Lucas Oil Events, which could allow him to add to a trophy case that already includes nine division championships across four separate classes and four different divisions. Bogacki’s latest ride is a 2012 American Dragster that belongs to good friend Carl Watts. “Carl’s a longtime friend who has been battling some issues after multiple knee surgeries – he says he can get in and out of his Super Gas car, but the dragster is a struggle. I told him my plans to buy another dragster, and he basically said ‘Don’t buy one – come get mine!’ That was pretty hard to pass up: it’s a great car that’s been well taken care of, and I’m very familiar with the American Race Cars design. I haven’t had a car owner in a long time, but Carl’s so easy going that he just kinda handed me the keys and said ‘have fun.’ “It’s at our shop now, we’re stripping it down. I’m making some updates, putting it on a diet, things like that. It’s a really good car as is, and we’re going to make it even better before the season gets underway.” In addition to Moser Engineering, APD, and Watts Auto Diesel, the new machine will feature quality components from Wiseco, Brodix Cylinder Heads, Accelerated Graphics, Fuel Factory, Mickey Thompson Tires, BTE, Milodon, and numerous manufacturers that the Bogacki Motorsports team has relied on for decades. To keep up with the build, follow Luke Bogacki Motorsports on Facebook. This story was originally published on December 9, 2025. The post Luke Bogacki Sets Sights on Top Dragster first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

NHRA team owner/driver Antron Brown has appointed veteran partnership specialist Kevin Contardo to lead sponsor relations for his AB Motorsports team for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. As Director of Business Operations, Contardo will oversee ABM’s existing partnership programs while pursuing new relationships with both endemic and non-endemic brands. He will also collaborate closely with ABM’s hospitality, merchandising, and machine shop departments as he builds upon the strong foundation Brown has successfully established through his first four years of NHRA team ownership. Contardo brings more than a decade of sponsorship development experience to AB Motorsports. His previous roles include serving as Director of Strategic Partnerships for John Force Racing and JCM Racing. He also held the position of Director of Global Partnerships at Oak View Group, a global sports and live entertainment venue management company, and served as Director of Strategic Partnerships for the Nashville Zoo. His in-depth partnership management experience, paired with his extensive motorsports background, uniquely positions him to support ABM’s continued growth. “I’m ready to hit the ground running with Antron and his AB Motorsports team,” said Contardo, who will work from the team’s Brownsburg, Ind., headquarters. “I’m a lifelong drag racing fan and have had the privilege of working in the NHRA space previously. I was thrilled to get the call from Antron and have the opportunity to rejoin the NHRA circuit with his AB Motorsports team. “I’ve long admired Antron, and it’s been especially impressive to see how far his operation has come in just four short years,” Contardo added. “From the addition and expansion of his FAB Machining business to the Accelerate program, the show car, and the 2024 Top Fuel championship, the team has built something truly remarkable. My goal is to support and enhance what ABM has already created and help streamline processes and operations so Antron can focus his attention on driving the Matco Tools Top Fuel dragster and engaging with ABM partners.” Contardo’s first order of business as Director of Business Operations will be joining Brown at the Performance Racing Industry Show at the Indiana Convention Center later this week. “We brought Kevin on board at the perfect time,” said Brown, a four-time NHRA Top Fuel world champion. “He’s an Indy local and already well established within the drag racing community. This week’s PRI show will be the perfect opportunity for Kevin to get to know some of our current partners and have some one-on-one time with them, as well as make some new connections for our team. We’ve got big things in store for 2026, and the addition of Kevin to our team is just the beginning.” The 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season opens with the NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Fla., March 6 – 8. This story was originally published on December 9, 2025. The post Kevin Contardo Named Director of Business Operations at AB Motorsports first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Many people have asked where is Brad McBride’s Volkswagen Fastback. For the past few seasons, the famed VW known as “BLITZKRIEG” has been seen touring the PDRA circuit in Super Street. But the last half of 2025, it seemed to have disappeared. “A lot of fans and competitors would ask why I was not racing the VW, and I would tell them that I am working on something special,” said McBride. At this year’s Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show, McBride will unveil the Fastback as he celebrates a five-year partnership with ICON Pistons, a division of United Engine and Machine. McBride states that Chris and everyone at ICON have been great to work with and that it is exciting to be a part of developing high-quality parts. The partnership has been instrumental in the success of McBride’s program, which has seen world records set along with a VW Heritage Series World Championship. In addition, McBride also won the PDRA World Finals in 2024, which made the famed Volkswagen the first and only to win in a pro category. “It takes a lot to compete against the V8s in the PDRA, but the durability of ICON allows us to push hard,” McBride said. “We see excess of 60psi boost and never have an issue.” McBride has been busy creating the new look and designing new parts and pieces for BLITZKRIEG as the team prepares for PRI. If you want to see it all, ICON Booth 1251 is the place to be at this year’s PRI Show. This story was originally published on December 9, 2025. The post Brad McBride To Unveil Fresh New Look At PRI Show first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Two in OneA listing on Auction123 features a 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429, one of the rarest high-performance variants of the first-generation Mustang. But what makes this example even more intriguing is that it comes with an extra “sister” Boss 429 engine – a valuable spare that can be rebuilt or just be sold. Produced only for 1969 and 1970, the Mustang Boss 429 was created to house Ford’s 7.0-liter (429 cu in) big-block V8, a larger and more powerful engine than the one used in the Boss 302. The massive 429 was engineered as a homologation motor to help Ford remain competitive in NASCAR and challenge Chrysler’s 426 Hemi. Auction123 Backed by Proven PedigreeThis was critical during a period when Richard Petty – who would later become a seven-time NASCAR champion – briefly joined Ford in 1969, then returned to Plymouth the following year, where he drove the iconic #43 Petty Blue Superbird. Because of its racing purpose, the Boss 429 power plant received extensive engineering upgrades. It featured a semi-hemispherical combustion chamber to improve airflow and maintain power at higher RPM, along with forged steel connecting rods and a forged steel crankshaft for exceptional durability under sustained high-load conditions. This particular car’s engine is claimed to make 600 horsepower, roughly 225 hp more than the factory rating. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a four-speed manual gearbox. Other notable equipment includes its Royal Maroon exterior, vinyl high-back bucket seats, an AM radio, power steering, power front disc brakes, and a competition suspension. The sister engine, meanwhile, is fully complete and has been disassembled for inspection. This allows prospective buyers to examine its NASCAR-homologated internal components closely and verify its authenticity. Auction123 A Heavy Hit to the WalletDespite the car’s high-performance nature, the seller says it has been garage-kept, well-maintained, and used as a show car and magazine feature. The pony car has 52,000 miles on the odometer, and the current owner has driven it for fewer than 200 miles. Further validating its authenticity and provenance are a build sheet, Mustang Club of America judging certificates, and a Marti Report. The asking price is a staggering $410,000, but that’s expected for a five-decade-old muscle car limited to a little over 1,350 units. Interestingly, it even surpasses the price of Ford’s modern, race-ready Mustang, the 815-hp Mustang GTD, which launched at around $325,000. Auction123 View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

This blast from Harley-Davidson's past is a small-displacement, dual-sport outlier, and it can be kind of valuable if it's running right. If.View the full article

Piaggio refreshes the Beverly for its 25th birthday with new styling, refined details, and a celebration of its Italian roots.View the full article

Ken Block's last Gymkhana video before he tragically passed away in 2023 was in the Audi S1 e-tron quattro, and despite that car being an EV, Block gave us an unforgettable show on the streets of Las Vegas. Now, xtreme sports athlete Travis Pastrana has taken up the Gymkhana challenge, and he's proved just as impressive as the man who started it. In 2020, he revealed the Airslayer STI, which he called the "wildest WRX STI ever," for his first crack at the Gymkhana series, and in 2022, he took to the streets of Florida in a Subaru GL nicknamed the Family Huckster. This December, the Subaru partnership has continued with a pickup called the Brataroo 9500 Turbo, a custom 1978 BRAT with 670 hp and a redline north of 9,500 rpm (the highest of any Gymkhana car to date), and Pastrana has used every inch of the tachometer in his latest Gymkhana film, Aussie Shred, which went live today and is embedded at the bottom of this article. Australia Changed Its Tune for Pastrana Subaru According to local publication WhichCar, Australian authorities reportedly had no interest in having someone like Block or Pastrana show their skills on public roads, even if those roads were closed, fearing that it would encourage automotive silliness. They've clearly softened their stance since Gymkhana 9's attempt in 2016, allowing the Brataroo to dance through the Outback and on the streets of Sydney. Fun fact: Australians coined the term 'hoon,' which describes dangerous driving and inspired the name of the media house that Block founded, Hoonigan. And this Subie pickup is certainly capable of insane hooning. Related: Subaru Teases a WRX STI Comeback with Both Gas and Electric Power The 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine produces a whopping 680 lb-ft of torque, feeding all four wheels through a six-speed SADEV sequential transmission. The Khyzyl Saleem-designed bodywork, which features some insane active aero, is made of carbon fiber, and the chassis is from Vermont SportCars, with a WRC-grade roll cage included. As you'll see below, Pastrana tests the limits of sanity several times in this film, and it must have been nice to know he would have been fully protected if anything went wrong. Travis Pastrana Has No Fear Subaru As he did in Florida with his last Gymkhana film, Pastrana dipped a wheel over the edge of a body of water, and although we know that no Gymkhana film is shot in one take, nor is any single stunt typically attempted only once, Pastrana's skill behind the wheel is a joy to behold and gives one shivers contemplating the possibility of failure or misjudgement. The scenes in the sandy Outback are less scary, but even there, Pastrana's fearless driving makes for exciting watching. Subaru says this is the ultimate Subaru Brat, and it probably is, but is this the wildest Gymkhana yet? Jumps, drifts, and near-misses reach new heights. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. View the full article

Two Sea-Doo Spark PWCs were tossed out of a plane at altitude with parachutes for one insane stunt with Red Bull, and you have to watch it. View the full article