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Rear Camera MalfunctionIn May 2025, Volvoissued a safety recall for a rear camera issue: Google-based infotainment screens have faulty software that prevents the rear camera feed from being displayed. What's notable about this recall is that it covers 413,000 cars across most of the Volvo lineup. Not to mention that the production years covered by this recall span over four years, from 2021 to 2025. Same Issue, New SymptomIt seems the problem is far from resolved, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has just issued a new safety recall. The second recall relates to the same issue from May, bumping up the total affected cars to 413,151 in the U.S. A second recall advisory was issued because "an additional issue has been found that causes the same symptom." The issue, as described in the NHTSA advisory, is that "the image does not show up during the start of each backing event." This, of course, is not only a failure of a feature customers paid for but also a potential safety risk for those who rely heavily on the rear backup camera. In the advisory, though, the NHTSA noted that those affected by the issue can still use other safety features, such as park assist warnings, rear automatic braking, and cross traffic alert, which don't rely on the camera to detect obstacles. Pending Remedy ProgramTo address the issue once and for all, the advisory mentioned what Volvo plans to do about it. A remedy program will be implemented where new software will be released at the end of the first quarter of 2026. Once available, Volvo will update all the cars affected by this issue through over-the-air (OTA) updates. It's interesting that the remedy software doesn't yet exist despite the issue occurring around May 2025. This rear-view camera issue is not exclusive to Volvo. A recent one rolled out for both Audiand Porsche. Audi's total tally of affected units is around 356,000, while Porsche's number is 173,00, adding together with Volvo's 413,151 puts a total of almost a million cars across three brands that have rear camera faults. Yikes. Volvo View the full article

If you ride a 2024 through 2026 CBR600RR, you should know about a manufacturing defect involving the engine block cylinder surface.View the full article

Citing a long list of concerns, many of them the common ones on most folks minds, Orland Speed World Dragway has officially closed their doors to Electric Vehicles. The ban does not apply to hybrids, just fully electric vehicles, and this ban is effective immediately. And while I understand the reasons that they have cited, I personally don’t agree with them, as they make assumptions that these reasons are exclusive to electric vehicles and this just isn’t true. I’ll go into that in more detail on an upcoming editorial, but until then here’s the announcement from the race track management. PRESS RELEASE / EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY ELECTRIC VEHICLE at Orlando Speed World Dragway THURSDAY, JANUARY 8th, 2026 #raceosw #ElectricCar #PressRelease #osw #dragracing The post Orlando Speed World Dragway BANS ALL ELECTRIC VEHICLES From Competing At The Track, Effective Immediately. What Do You Think? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A scheduling clash means that the MotoGP summer break will take place after the Suzuka 8 Hours race, meaning there's a slim chance premier class riders will take part.View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Stage Six – Hail to Riyadh Daniel Sanders topped the original time sheets at stage six of the Dakar Rally, with a looming speeding penalty set to change the official outcome. The Australian proving unstoppable in the sand, quickly catching Luciano Benavides after the neutralised zone and setting a formidable pace in […] The post Brabec wins Dakar Stage Six as Sanders hit with penalty appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Earlier this week, eagle-eyed Jeep fans noticed that the brand’s Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid SUVs disappeared from the manufacturer’s website. Jeep said this was due to a stop-sale while it finds a remedy for a large recall affecting these models. But in a more dramatic twist, Stellantis has decided to discontinue these models completely. And, in what appears to be a more comprehensive realignment of the company’s electrification strategy, Chrysler’s Pacifica hybrid has also been scrapped. Shifting Customer Demand To Blame 2024 Jeep Wrangler High Altitude 4xe Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article This move from Stellantis is surprising, given how popular the Jeep PHEVs were. But Stellantis isn’t abandoning electrification—it’s just moving away from PHEVs, specifically. “Stellantis continually evaluates its product strategy to meet evolving customer needs and regulatory requirements,” said a Stellantis spokesperson in an email sent to The Drive. “With customer demand shifting, Stellantis will phase out plug-in hybrid (PHEV) programs in North America beginning with the 2026 model year, and focus on more competitive electrified solutions, including hybrid and range-extended vehicles where they best meet customer needs.” The Pacifica was the only plug-in hybrid minivan in the country, but rivals like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival hybrid have simpler hybrid powertrains that don’t need to be plugged in. As of this writing, the 2026 Pacifica PHEV is still listed on Chrysler’s site, so if you want one, time is running out. As for the range-extended vehicles it now wants to focus on, Stellantis already has the Ram 1500 REV, with its 3.6-liter V6 engine acting as a generator. A range-extended EV version of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer is also on its way later this year. Related: First Ford, Now Honda: Why Automakers Are All-In On Hybrids For 2026 What About The Dodge Hornet PHEV? The Stellantis statement points to a complete exodus of the company’s plug-in hybrid range, and this is likely to include the Dodge Hornet PHEV. Although the compact Dodge PHEV wasn’t mentioned directly, we know that dealers are battling to move this model off showroom floors. Last month, inventory of 2024 (yes, 2024) Hornet PHEVs still sat at over 80%, and we can only assume 2025 versions have been a hard sell, too. The 2025 Hornet PHEV is still listed on Dodge’s website, but we don’t expect to see a 2026 version of the electrified crossover. What It Means Many manufacturers are being forced to continuously adapt their powertrain strategies in response to changing demand. Betting too heavily on one powertrain option is a mistake, as is going all-in on EVs. Last year, we saw a string of EVs being killed off, and the feeling right now is that self-charging hybrids are the sweet spot. As for plug-in hybrids, this powertrain is not only expensive to produce, but these vehicles tend to have significantly more problems than regular hybrids and non-hybrid models. This is another reason for brands like Stellantis to focus on self-charging hybrids. View the full article

GWM Challenges China’s EV MomentumChina remains the global epicenter of electrification, with battery-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles accounting for more than half of all new car sales. Most domestic automakers are aggressively pivoting toward EV-only or heavily electrified lineups built around downsized engines and dedicated platforms. Against that industry-wide current, Great Wall Motor (GWM) made an intentionally disruptive statement at CES 2026 by unveiling a self-developed four-liter twin-turbo V8. The move is especially telling given GWM’s position in the market. New energy vehicles represented just over 30 percent of its 2025 sales, trailing rivals such as BYD and Geely, which have embraced full electrification. Rather than chasing EV dominance, GWM is reinforcing its strength in large-displacement internal combustion engines, particularly for premium off-road and performance applications. Displaying the V8 at one of the biggest consumer trade shows in US, long regarded as V8 heartland, signals confidence that there is still global demand for emotionally engaging powertrains, even as electrification accelerates. A Modern V8 Built for Hybrid PossibilitiesDespite its old-school cylinder count, GWM’s V8 is anything but outdated. The four-liter engine employs Miller cycle technology, twin turbochargers, and a front-mounted water-cooled intercooler. An integrated post-boost piping layout and front-end accessory drive, complete with an optional viscous fan, suggest the engine was engineered with durability and thermal stability in mind, particularly for demanding off-road or high-load environments. Fueling duties are handled by a dual-injection system combining 350-bar direct injection with 5.5-bar port injection, paired with a variable-displacement oil pump. This setup allows the engine to adapt efficiently to different operating conditions while minimizing carbon buildup. Power is routed through a GWM-developed nine-speed automatic transmission with a torque converter, and crucially, the V8’s architecture includes provisions for integrating a small electric motor and battery. This opens the door to hybridized V8 applications, blending electrified assistance with traditional muscle rather than replacing it outright, similar to that of Toyota's application. CHINAPEV.COM Performance SUVs, Supercars, and the Return of EmotionExact output figures remain unconfirmed, though the V8 was previously quoted at around 500 horsepower when it appeared at the Shanghai Auto Show in 2025. GWM chairman Jack Wei, has stated that the engine will underpin the brand’s most performance-focused vehicles. Their upcoming Toyota Land Cruiser 300-sized Tank 800 luxury off-roader is expected to be the first production model to feature the V8, positioning it as a flagship body-on-frame SUV. More broadly, GWM’s strategy reflects a wider industry sentiment. Even as electrification surges, other manufacturers, including Toyota with its highly anticipated Toyota GR GT supercar and Dodge teasing us with bringing back the Hemi V8 in its Charger, have hinted at keeping or reviving V8s for performance-oriented models. GWM’s V8 debut suggests that for enthusiasts and halo products, raw power and mechanical character still matter, and may continue to coexist with electrification rather than disappear because of it. GWM View the full article

A snowmobiler plunged through the ice on Pleasant Lake on New Year's Eve, suffering only hypothermia after being rescued by the Oakland County Sheriff's Office.View the full article

They say bigger is better, but has KTM gone too far with its latest 1390 Super Adventure R?View the full article

Racing Knowledge Translated to Cool Road CarsEvery carmaker with a motorsport arm worth its salt eventually funnels track lessons into road cars. Sometimes, though, racing teams do that, too. Autobacs Racing Team Aguri (ARTA) is doing exactly that at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon with a Civic Type R project that sits far outside the usual tuning playbook. Formed in 1997 by former Formula 1 driver Aguri Suzuki and Autobacs, ARTA has long competed at the sharp end of Japanese motorsport, particularly Super GT. Its latest project uses the current FL5-generation Honda Civic Type R as a base, but this is not a styling exercise or a bolt-on parts catalog. It is a full “complete kit” developed with direct involvement from Suzuki, Keiichi Tsuchiya, and Super GT driver Tomoki Nojiri. Only 20 kits are planned, and ARTA isn’t just making a street car with racing looks. It’s building something much closer to a real race car that just happens to be road legal. ARTA A Civic Type R, Rewritten by ARTAThe ARTA GT FL5 looks aggressive, but every change serves a purpose. The big front opening boosts cooling and adds downforce, while the overfender ducts manage airflow better than typical bolt-on aero. Out back, a large diffuser and swan-neck GT wing handle the rest. Apart from the bodywork, ARTA engineered the turbo system and suspension, ditched the factory limiter, and set up the car for real track use. The goal: get as much performance as possible from the FL5 while still keeping it street-ready. Inside, there’s a suede-wrapped racing wheel in place of the stock one, but the factory controls stay where you expect them. Black Recaro seats hold you in tighter than the originals. Having Nojiri involved in the circuit setup isn’t just for show. ARTA says it actually used his Super GT experience during development, not just for the brochure. ARTA The Price of Going All InThe ARTA kit itself costs 13.5 million yen before tax, and that’s just for the parts. You still need to buy a Civic Type R (about 5 million yen in Japan) and pay for installation. All in, you’re looking at around 18.5 million yen before any extras. ARTA figures the final price could hit 23 to 25 million yen, depending on options. That’s about $160,000, so it’s not for everyone. But exclusivity is part of the draw here. Again, only 20 cars will be made, all staying in Japan. If you want a Civic as close to Super GT as possible without needing a pit crew, this is about as close as it gets. ARTA View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

You ride a bike that proves simple can still feel right. You value ease, clean design, and a calm ride over big numbers. This bike fits where many riders live today, with a focus on feel, finish, and everyday use. You spend time on rough roads, tight streets, and short trips, so balance matters more than speed. You notice details, comfort, and how a bike fits your life. This ride shows how a modest machine can still feel special and well made. Key Takeaways […] The post Reviewed: Honda GB350S — Low Cost, High Character appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Here’s a video showing just what you’ve got to do in order to chop the top on a 1932 Ford Tudor. This is where the cutting begins. There’s no turning back now! The last video showed you everything that has to happen to plan and prepare to chop an all original 1932 Ford Tudor Sedan. There is a lot of measuring and taping and measuring and measuring and marking and staring and measuring and staring, and measuring, before any of the cutting starts. Check it out in the link below, and if you missed the first episode on this epic machine, use the link below as well. This 1932 Ford Tudor Sedan is an amazing survivor. It is completely stock and untouched and has spent the last few decades stored in a storage container in Canada. It recently got shipped all the way to Australia to Bennett’s Customs where it is getting a 48 hour hot rod transformation, and it might even get chopped which is going to piss some folks off I’m sure. But you know what? It’s not ours, so if the guy who owns it wants to chop it then I say chop away! CLICK HERE TO SEE THE OTHER VIDEOS IN THE SERIES ON THIS ALL ORIGINAL 1932 FORD TUDOR SEDAN Video Description: In this episode we chop the roof on a 1932 Ford Tudor that’s been untouched for 93 years. This true survivor gets a dose of attitude as we take the first steps toward building new memories in this iconic Ford. The post How to Chop An All-Original 1932 Ford Tudor: Chopping a True Survivor – This Untouched 1932 Ford Is Becoming A Hot Rod! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A Facelift Hiding in Plain SightThe Nissan Z’s facelift has been on the cards for some time, and now it’s finally stepped into the spotlight at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon. First impression? It’s so familiar, you could almost miss it in a crowded parking lot. The most obvious change is the return of green, specifically a new shade called Unryu Green. It’s a modern interpretation of the classic Grand Prix Green seen on early Z cars. The updated front end also plays into that theme, with a revised bumper inspired by the old S30’s aerodynamic G-nose and a simplified “Z” emblem replacing the full Nissan logo. The rear, by contrast, remains largely untouched. Nissan Small Changes, Real SubstanceTake a closer look, and the changes start to add up. Nissan says the new front bumper isn’t just for show – it’s meant to cut front lift and trim drag, even if only slightly. The 19-inch wheels are a throwback to earlier Zs, and the suspension tweaks hint that this isn’t just a surface-level refresh. Under the skin, the shocks now use bigger pistons, which means they can handle more pressure and react faster to rough roads. Brakes have been beefed up, too, especially on the higher-trim Nissan models that were brought to the show. Inside, there’s a new tan interior that brings a bit of warmth and old-school charm. Practical touches like an auto-dimming rearview mirror make their way in, but the overall layout stays the same – good news for anyone who already likes the Z’s focused cockpit. One odd detail, though: interior images show a six-speed manual paired with paddle shifters, which doesn’t make sense. Most likely, it’s just a mix-up in the visuals, but let's see what Nissan has to say about this “hybrid” setup. Nissan When Will It Arrive in AmericaThe real headline is the Z Nismo. A manual gearbox for the Nismo isn’t a shock – it’s more like Nissan finally listening to what fans have been asking for. The company has already confirmed a manual Nismo for the US, which shows it's actually paying attention to the enthusiast crowd this time. As for when you’ll see it, Japan gets the facelifted Z around summer 2026, with other markets to follow. Since the US already has the 2026 Z updates, expect these tweaks to show up as 2027 models elsewhere. Whether every styling and suspension change makes it across the Pacific is still up in the air, but the timing checks out. Nissan sold 5,487 Zs in the US last year – a 73 percent jump from the previous year. A mild refresh and a manual Nismo should help keep that momentum going, without messing with the formula that’s finally starting to work. Nissan View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Signs of LifeDespite all the challenges, Nissan still ended 2025 in the black and is optimistic about bouncing back in the coming years. At the same time, the company would like to remind everyone that it can still build pretty special cars, and that there is still some adrenaline pumping through its veins. Case in point: here's the Nissan Aura RS Nismo Concept. Unveiled at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, it's a junior hot hatchback that integrates its e-Power hybrid tech with a clever all-wheel drive system. Think of it, then, as a potential rival to the Toyota GR Yaris (not available in America), but with its own unique twist. Nissan There's Even Better NewsIt may say concept on it, but Nissan has plans that will please small hot hatch fans. In its press release, the company said it would like to enter the car in motorsport and, get this, aim to commercialize it. While not an outright confirmation, the intent to bring it to showrooms is there. Of course, that will all depend on Nissan's financial health down the line. Should it continue its small but incremental recovery, it should boost the chances of the Aura RS Nismo coming into production. In other words, people all over the world should buy more Nissans to make it happen. Nissan The SpecsYes, it's a hybrid, but so is a Ferrari 296 GTB. Also, it doesn't use a CVT; instead, it goes with a direct-drive transmission for what could be described as a more direct response. Its entire powertrain and drivetrain come straight from the X-Trail e-Power e-4orce and are shoved into the Aura's subcompact body. By the way, that's the Rogue for the Japanese/Rest of World market that has far more pull power than what's offered stateside. That means a turbocharged 1.5-liter, three-cylinder mill that only serves as a generator for its two electric motors. The front motor is good for 201 horsepower, while the rear puts out 134 hp. Combined, it produces 211 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. Okay, it's not mind-boggling numbers, but the car weighs under 3,300 lbs, and its instant power delivery should help it scoot off the line. Think of it this way: If the X-Trail e-Power can do the 0-60 mph sprint in the 6.4 seconds (as tested by CarWow...in typical British weather), we reckon the Nismo-fied Aura can do it in the fives. Nissan Nissan View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

By any historical measure, drag racing has always evolved in waves – eras defined by cars, personalities, venues, and moments that only fully reveal their importance years later. But every so often, something emerges that refuses easy comparison, something that doesn’t fit neatly into the established timelines. According to Brian Lohnes, that’s exactly what’s happening right now with the Drag Illustrated Winter Series. “I really thought about this,” Lohnes said during The Wes Buck Show. “And you can look at singular examples of singular races. You can look at what the March Meet meant to fuel racing in the sixties. You can look at the U.S. Nationals. You can pick these one‑off things. But in my estimation, for what this is, it is a unique phenomenon because it hasn’t really existed before.” That’s not hyperbole coming from a hype man. Lohnes is one of the sport’s most respected historians and broadcasters, someone who has spent decades contextualizing drag racing’s biggest moments. When he says there is no historical comparison, it carries weight. “I’ve got no reference point for it,” he continued. “Other than the fact that it was something that was needed.” More Than Money, More Than Numbers On paper, the Winter Series is easy to sell: massive car counts, record‑setting qualifying numbers, and some of the biggest payouts the sport has ever seen. But Lohnes is adamant that the money, while important, isn’t the real reason racers are flocking to Bradenton. “As big as the money is, and as cool as the money is, that is not why all these people are there,” Lohnes said. “They want the money. They want to win the race. But it ain’t that at all.” Instead, Lohnes believes the real draw is something far more primal — and far more powerful. “It is that measuring stick that every single person in this sport wants to have and wants to be on,” he said. “The measuring stick is how good am I versus everybody else.” That idea explains the raw emotion witnessed throughout the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals qualifying – crew chiefs pacing, racers barely able to watch the scoreboard, and teams erupting simply for making the field. “Nobody drove out of the gate after the Snowbirds and said, ‘Gee whiz, I sure wish I had the 75 grand,’” Lohnes said. “They drove out of the gate looking at the winner’s circle, looking at guys spraying beer all over each other and going frigging berserk. And they want that.” A Series Built on Pressure The pressure, Lohnes believes, is precisely what separates the Winter Series from anything that came before it. With more than 80 cars fighting for 32 spots, qualifying itself has become a defining achievement. “I’ve spent most of my life watching this sport,” Lohnes said later in the show. “And it is so rare when a guy comes in a position like Jason [Harris] was in and is able to lock in and execute five times. It is incredibly difficult.” That pressure doesn’t ease as the rounds go on – it compounds. Lohnes noted that there was never a moment during Harris’ Snowbirds run where victory felt inevitable. “There wasn’t a single round that I didn’t think he was being threatened,” he said. “There wasn’t a point in the day where it was just like, ‘Well, let’s write it off, baby. He’s just going to cruise through this thing.’” Why It Grew So Fast One of the most remarkable aspects of the Winter Series is how quickly it matured. Lohnes attributes that growth to the same force currently reshaping other parts of the sport. “The double down as to why it grew so far and so fast and so quickly is for the same reason that Lil’ Gangstas has done the same thing,” he explained. “It provided people a home and something that they didn’t necessarily know that they needed until they saw it – and now they will never let it go.” In Lohnes’ view, that sense of belonging – of finally having a place where effort, execution, and nerve are all tested equally – is what makes the series resonate so deeply. “There is no real historical comparison here,” he said flatly. “I’m not even being overly dramatic.” Watching It Happen in Real Time Perhaps the most striking part of Lohnes’ assessment is his awareness that everyone involved may not fully grasp the magnitude of the moment yet. “I had that same feeling driving out of the gate Saturday night at the Snowbirds,” he said. “This felt every bit like the World Series last year.” To Lohnes, that feeling represents something critical – establishment. “That second‑year establishment is real,” he said. “The inaugural thing is everybody looking around going, ‘Okay, this kind of feels like it should.’ And then year two, you go, ‘Okay, now I know what this is.’ And that’s what makes everything feel a little bit bigger.” As the Winter Series moves forward, Lohnes believes its true legacy is only beginning to take shape. The records will fall. The winners will change. But the standard – the measuring stick – is already set. And once racers experience that level of pressure and purpose, Lohnes doesn’t believe they’ll ever be willing to race without it again. This story was originally published on January 8, 2026. The post “I Have No Reference Point for This”: Brian Lohnes on the Winter Series and Watching History Form in Real Time first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Hope That Refused to DieEver since the VB-generation Subaru WRX sedan landed without a proper STI sibling, the longing has been real. We have been clinging to every hint, teaser, and concept that suggested a true-blue WRX STI comeback was still possible. The optimism spiked with the WRX STI S210 prototype revealed almost exactly a year ago, but it cooled quickly. No manual transmission, no Driver’s Control Center Differential, and no meaningful power bump meant it never quite felt like the heir to the last real STI, the one that capped out at 341 horsepower and 330 lb-ft. Subaru didn’t help matters by teasing even harder afterward. Two STI-flavored concepts shown at the Japan Mobility Show, followed by cryptic teasers hinting at sound, feel, and intent, made it seem like something bigger was brewing. And here it is at last: the WRX STI Sport♯. Still not a full-fat STI (cue: sad trombone), but this time, at least, there’s a manual gearbox involved. Given how cautiously optimistic we’ve become, the disappointment feels muted rather than sharp. Subaru What the STI Sport♯ Actually BringsSubaru hasn’t been especially talkative about the new WRX STI Sport♯ shown in Tokyo. Officially, it’s described as a WRX S4 with a manual transmission and STI performance parts, which is both accurate and frustratingly vague. Reading between the lines, though, this appears to be a manual-equipped evolution of the previously revealed WRX S4 STI Sport♯, rather than a clean-sheet performance leap. That means the familiar FA24 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer-four carries over, producing around 275 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Power still feeds all four wheels, now through a six-speed manual instead of Subaru’s performance CVT. The focus remains firmly on chassis balance and response, with Subaru saying that it comes with “high-performance tires, electronically controlled dampers, and Brembo brakes, and exclusive STI parts are used to maximize driving quality.” Visually, the new WRX STI Sport♯ comes with blacked-out elements, a subtle spoiler, dark pink skirt accents all over, and STI badging. As expected, there are Recaro seats inside, trimmed in Ultrasuede, and a stick shift. And more STI badges. Subaru Still Waiting, Still HopingSubaru has stated that the WRX STI Sport♯ at Tokyo Auto Salon (TAS) is still a prototype. There are no details yet on production timing, availability, or whether it will follow the earlier 500-unit limited run in Japan. Will it come to the US? Probably not – and besides, you're better off with the WRX tS that you can actually purchase. For now, Subaru's TAS showing serves as a statement rather than a commitment. This is where the usual frustration returns. The STI Sport♯ suggests Subaru is moving in the right direction, but not fully committing. It offers enough to keep interest alive, but still holds back. The manual gearbox is a positive step, but the overall package still leaves something to be desired. Still, Subaru fans are nothing but loyal to the idea of a WRX STI comeback. Maybe not today, maybe not with this car, but hope, somehow, remains stubbornly alive. Subaru View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

ASBK 2026 A wide cross-section of Australian road racing talent, alongside a handful of internationals, took part in a private two-day test at Phillip Island on January 6–7, with the event organised by Moto3 Grand Prix rider Joel Kelso and three-time Australian Superbike Champion Wayne Maxwell. The idea for the test came from Kelso, who […] The post Strong ASBK and international presence at private Phillip Island test appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

From Nürburgring Lessons to Road-Car RealityToyota chairman Akio Toyoda – otherwise known as Morizo – doesn’t just put his name on Gazoo Racing projects. He gets behind the wheel himself. Last year, he led the Toyota Gazoo Rookie Racing (TGRR) at the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race, which led to the creation of the most hardcore GR Yaris yet. Meet the Toyota GR Yaris Morizo RR – a more track-focused, Nürburgring-bred take on an already wild hot hatch. Morizo himself had a hand in molding it, and the result is a car built for drivers, not just for numbers. Only 200 will be made, split between Japan and a handful of European markets, so it’s a guaranteed collector’s piece from day one. Instead of chasing bigger power figures, the focus here was on feel, consistency, and confidence behind the wheel. This is a car shaped by lessons from endurance racing, not by what looks good on a brochure. Toyota Performance Tweaks Where It Matters MostUnder the skin, the GR Yaris Morizo RR gets suspension tuning dialed in for the kind of rough, high-speed surfaces you find at the Nürburgring. Damping was tweaked to keep the tires glued to the road, and the electric power steering now gives you sharper feedback and more predictable reactions when you’re pushing hard. One of the notable tweaks is a new 4WD control mode just for this car. Instead of the usual GRAVEL setting, you get “MORIZO” mode, which locks the torque split at 50:50 front to rear. The goal? Consistency and stability when attacking corners, not a system that’s always shuffling power around. Toyota didn't mention any update to the power output of the GR Yaris Morizo RR, so we're assuming it keeps the 300-horsepower, 295 lb-ft torque output of the 1.6-liter three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine. Matched with the GR Direct Automatic Transmission, the whole setup mirrors what Morizo prefers from his own racing stints: less work for the driver, smoother power, and the kind of focus you need to keep going lap after lap. Toyota Limited Availability WorldwideOn the outside, the Morizo RR isn’t exactly low-key. The exclusive Gravel Khaki paint gives it a subtle, almost workmanlike look, set off by matte bronze wheels and yellow brake calipers – both nods to Morizo’s own taste. Aero tweaks include a large carbon-fiber rear wing born from Nürburgring racing, plus a carbon hood, front spoiler, and side skirts. Inside, every change has a reason. The suede-wrapped steering wheel with yellow stitching gets new paddle shifters and a switch layout borrowed from Toyota’s Rally2 program. Unique seats, Morizo RR badges, and a numbered plaque make it clear this isn’t your average GR Yaris. If you want one, you’ll need luck – sales in Japan for the first 100 units will be lottery-based starting spring 2026, with the other 100 units heading to Europe. The GR Yaris Morizo RR, like the standard GR Yaris, is still unfortunately off-limits for the US, but with the GR Corolla already here, it’s hard not to hope for a GR Corolla Morizo RR in the future. Maybe someday? Please? Toyota View the 13 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Scott Woodruff doesn’t have a title at the nascent International Hot Rod Association but if you have to call him something, ‘Woody’ probably wouldn’t balk at ‘director of fun’ because that is generally the mandate Darryl Cuttell has provided him. For over two decades, he was the brand and media manager at JEGS Performance, just as a point of reference. However, he preferred the ...Keep readingView the full article

While Brad Keselowski continues his recovery, he will opt out of the pre-season exhibition race at Bowman Gray Stadium. Keselowski suffered a broken leg while skiing with his family on December 18th, and underwent successful surgery soon after. The 68th running of the Daytona 500 follows takes place on February 15th, but The Clash is a full two weeks earlier. While the 41-year-old ...Keep readingView the full article

Purchasing a new car in person can be daunting for most buyersFor most car buyers, walking into a car dealership to buy a new car can be the most nerve-wracking experience that they’ll ever feel, as it can feel like stepping into enemy territory. Apart from a house, a car may be the second-largest purchase that most Americans make, which can be a very daunting prospect. In today's digital world, there are many ways to buy a car from the comfort of your couch and without leaving home. For instance, the online used car marketplace known as Carvana has grown significantly within the past few years, which has led its stock price to balloon last month. At the same time, Hertz has launched a dedicated online car-buying platform, and even Amazon has stepped into the ring with Amazon Autos. However, while the digital car-buying experience may be tempting, some buyers may feel that it is too easy to get a new set of wheels. New data from both dealer software leader CDK Global and online car-buying platform CarGurus show that, despite advances in technology, certain important aspects of car buying are still perceived as better left on paper and in real life, even by young buyers. Getty Images CDK Global: Paperless ain't perfectDespite there being an industry-wide push for car dealers to go entirely paperless, two studies show that most car buyers want to keep important discussions about their purchases in real life and take home hard paper copies of key purchase documents. According to CDK Global’s 2025 F&I Shopper Study, 55% of the customers it surveyed signed paper copies of important documents pertaining to their car purchases, and 53% said that such a practice was the one they preferred. On the other hand, only 25% of customers surveyed signed the same documents on a tablet, with 29% indicating that they prefer this method. At the same time, 20% of customers surveyed signed some important documents physically and some digitally. However, this was the least preferred option, with just 17% choosing the "hybrid" solution. CDK also found that 26% of surveyed car buyers received a digital copy of their key paperwork at the end of their purchase, though 22% said that this was their preference. About 26% of car buyers said they prefer to receive both a physical and digital copy of some paperwork, but in reality, just 11% of consumers actually receive both digital and physical paper copies of these documents. David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images CDK also found that the preference for paper defies generational bounds, as at least half of every demographic studied, including the coveted Generation Z consumers between 18-26 years old, said they wanted all signatures to be on paper. In addition, at least 47% of every generation ultimately wanted paper copies of all documents, including 70% of respondents aged 59 and older. In a statement to Automotive News, CDK product marketer Jason Swiech said that the "most interesting thing" he observed from the survey conducted was the digital-to-paper question, as many dealerships have adopted digitization. He added that consumers view a vehicle as a “huge purchase, just like a house,” which may explain the need for feeling "comfort in paper." "From a dealer perspective or a vendor perspective, we all think paperless," Swiech said. "And I still think that’s the right way, but it was very interesting to hear about how many people still really value paper. And really value that hand-holding of it when they leave the dealership." Getty Images CarGurus: Car buyers want to discuss financing in personOn the topic of car buying being a major purchase for most Americans, the results of a CarGurus survey released in December found that the weight of a car purchase is curbing the consumer appeal for online financing. They found that 31% of car buyers prefer to set up vehicle financing online, a figure that is 5 percentage points down from results collected in 2023 and 15 percentage points from 2022, the first year it collected this data. Alternatively, 29% of buyers stated that they prefer to inquire about and receive help with the financing process in person. In 2025, 33% of car buyers obtained financing for their cars online, while 32% worked on financing both online and in-person at the dealer, and the remaining 34% completed their entire financing deal exclusively in-person. In a statement, David Undercoffler, CarGurus' head of consumer insights, told Automotive News that COVID caused consumers to rethink how they buy cars, though things are different now. “I think now what we’re seeing is sort of a natural kind of pendulum swinging back into sort of the natural balance, the natural order of things,” Undercoffler said. “It’s nice to have a human in front of you when you’re talking about putting thousands of dollars and your credit on the line.” However, one part of the financing process that they found better as a digital experience was the preliminary auto finance step of prequalification; a kind of credit check that doesn’t affect a buyer's credit score, but lays out the kind of loan rates and terms available. CarGurus found that 31% of car buyers preferred to conduct this process online; though 55% of car buyers requested it online, 29% got prequalification both online and in person, while 15% got prequalified in person. Final thoughtsDespite online platforms like Carvana and established names like Hertz continuing to grow by offering transparent, pressure-free alternatives, these insights show that there are certain aspects of car buying that some still feel are best left to traditional dealerships. As a bona fide car enthusiast, I believe that seeing cars up close and actually taking the time to understand the terms is an essential part of the car-buying process. Cars are a significant purchase for many Americans, which not only needs a “touch-and-feel” retail experience, but also one where dealers can explain every process in easy-to-understand detail. View the full article

Congress Reopens the Door for RobotaxisA key U.S. House panel is preparing to revisit one of the most contentious questions in modern transportation policy: how quickly autonomous vehicles should be allowed onto public roads. On January 13, the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee will hold a hearing on draft legislation designed to accelerate the deployment of self-driving vehicles that operate without traditional human controls like steering wheels or pedals. The move signals renewed momentum after years of gridlock in Congress, even as robotaxi testing quietly expands across major U.S. cities. Under current law, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) can exempt only up to 2,500 vehicles per automaker per year from certain federal safety standards, provided companies can prove they are safe. Automakers argue that the cap is far too restrictive for meaningful commercial deployment. One proposal under discussion would raise that limit dramatically, to as many as 90,000 vehicles annually, while also revisiting rules written for human-driven cars, such as mandatory rear-view mirrors or steering wheels. Supporters say the changes are necessary to keep U.S. autonomy efforts globally competitive; critics warn they could weaken safety oversight just as the technology faces growing scrutiny. Getty A Policy Tension: High-Tech Autonomy vs. Simpler CarsThe push to fast-track autonomous vehicles stands in sharp contrast to other signals coming from Washington about the future of cars. In parallel, the Trump administration has floated ideas aimed at rolling back complex regulations and encouraging simpler, more affordable vehicles, most notably through relaxed fuel economy rules and public enthusiasm for importing small, no-frills Japanese kei cars. Those initiatives emphasize accessibility, mechanical simplicity, and lower ownership costs, rather than cutting-edge software and sensors. Taken together, the two directions reveal a fundamental contradiction in U.S. automotive policy. On one hand, lawmakers are considering sweeping federal preemption that would block states from setting their own autonomous driving rules and force a national framework for advanced driver-assistance calibration. On the other, political messaging around “old-school” cars appeals to nostalgia and consumer frustration with increasingly expensive, tech-heavy vehicles. The autonomy bills assume a future dominated by fleets of software-defined robotaxis, while the parallel deregulatory push suggests a desire to return cars to being simpler tools rather than rolling computers. Speed, Safety, and an Unsettled Road AheadReal-world deployments are already raising the stakes. Tesla has launched a limited robotaxi service with safety monitors in Austin, while Waymo continues expanding into new markets. Mercedes-Benz plans to introduce a city-capable automated driving system in the U.S. later this year under driver supervision. At the same time, high-profile incidents, such as a recent report of Tesla driver assist failing, have fueled skepticism from consumer advocates, labor unions like the Teamsters, and federal investigators. The upcoming House hearing won’t resolve that tension overnight, but it could set the tone for the next decade of U.S. vehicle policy. Lawmakers face a delicate balance: moving fast enough to avoid ceding leadership to China and other rivals, while maintaining public trust in safety and accountability. Whether Congress can reconcile its enthusiasm for autonomous technology with its parallel push for simpler, more traditional cars will determine not just how quickly robotaxis arrive, but what kind of automotive future Americans ultimately get. Tesla View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Back in February 2019, Porsche announced that the following generation of the immensely popular Macan crossover, one of its best sellers, would only be available with electric power. The EV launched in early 2024, and by then, the world's view of how quickly all-electric mobility would be adopted changed, and Porsche's former CEO has now admitted that it was a mistake. In an interview with German publication Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, published in his final month at the reins of the automaker, Oliver Blume admitted the blunder: "Our strategy was to offer combustion engines, hybrids, and electric sports cars in each of our three segments — but not for every product. We were wrong about the Macan." This is the second time in recent weeks that Blume has admitted a misjudgment on Porsche's part. Porsche Plans to Rectify the Mistake, But Sticks By the Bad Call Porsche The former CEO (who has now been replaced by former Ferrari and McLaren man Dr. Michael Leiters as of January 1) justified the decision to cull the combustion-powered Macan back then but added that things would be different if the call were made in today's climate. "Based on the data available at the time and our assessment of our markets, we would make the same decision again," said Blume. "Today, the situation is different. We have responded and are adding combustion engines and hybrids." This miscalculation has been mirrored by Stellantis with the Dodge Charger. Related: Is Porsche’s Slowest New Car Still Worth Buying? After poor sales of the all-electric Daytona, a twin-turbo Hurricane engine was hastily added, but Porsche knows that this has its own pitfalls. While the combustion Charger has compromises that cause it to suffer (such as a high floor that was not initially designed for gas engines), Porsche is reviving a gas vehicle for the compact luxury crossover segment, but instead of trying to reengineer the Macan EV for combustion, it's starting with a blank slate. The New Macan Won't Be a Macan at All Martin Leissl/Bloomberg via Getty Images While Blume may have been at the helm while Porsche made some mistakes, he also readily worked to resolve these problems, announcing in the middle of last year that a new model would join the lineup where the gas Macan left a void, and that this new luxury crossover would arrive no later than 2028. Because Porsche invested so much into associating the Macan name with an EV, it now makes more sense for Porsche's gas-powered return to compact luxury to bear a new name. This new nomenclature has not yet been made public, but Blume described the new crossover as "very, very typical Porsche for this segment and also differentiated from the BEV Macan." Since the old gas Macan's platform could no longer meet European cybersecurity laws, the newcomer is likely to be based on the Premium Platform Combustion architecture that underpins the Audi Q5. Getty Interestingly, the next Porsche 718, which was set to be EV-only too, is being reengineered to accept gas engines. Hopefully, Porsche does a better job than Dodge, but that should go without saying. Porsche's new CEO has a lot of work to oversee; let's hope the man responsible for cars like the SF90 Stradale, 296 GTB, and Purosangue - not to mention an improvement in McLaren's build quality and financial stability - can turn Porsche around. View the full article

Former No Prep Kings star Nate Sayler arrived in Bradenton, Florida last December for the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks with high hopes. Piloting his brand-new screw-blown ’67 Mustang, built by Quarter-Max Racing and powered by a ProLine MH8 4.9 Hemi, Sayler appeared primed for a breakout performance. Unfortunately, the car backfired on the starting line in Q1, forcing the team to ship in parts overnight and putting them behind the eight ball all weekend. In the final qualifying session, Sayler laid down a respectable 3.660 e.t. at 206.16 mph – but with 80 top-tier Pro Mods fighting for 32 spots, the run was only good enough for the No. 56 spot. “After not qualifying at the Snowbirds, I decided I needed a big change,” said Sayler. “We changed the car’s setup completely, from top to bottom. I mean, we left nothing unturned. We knew we had all the right pieces; we just needed to get them all in the right places.” Getting those pieces in place required multiple days of testing at Bradenton Motorsports Park in preparation for the upcoming U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission, the second race of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. It also required the right people – whether it was advice from ProLine Racing co-owner Eric Dillard, assistance on the keyboard from championship tuners Steve Petty and Brandon Stroud, or chassis adjustments from RK Racecraft’s founder Ryan Rakestraw. That wealth of knowledge produced results immediately, with Sayler continuously making the quickest passes of his career – passes that would’ve put him in the top 10 on the qualifying sheet at the Snowbirds. “We hot lapped this car just like we were going rounds,” Sayler said. “I was running new career bests every other pass. Once we started chipping away at the number, we had more and more people helping and joining in. We brought an army testing with us and we were on a mission.” Sayler is no stranger to fast doorslammer racing, having won NPK events and a team championship in the past with his steel roof and quarters ’67 Chevy Nova. However, the Snowbirds was just his second appearance in his purpose-built Pro Mod. He debuted the Mustang last November at the IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series event in Benson, North Carolina. Now, with a car that is finally running the way he wants it to – and plenty more left in the tank – Sayler is primed to make some noise at the second race of the Winter Series. “We had the best crew, the best tuners in the business, and one of the best chassis guys around working on this car for two days straight,” said Sayler. “We now have a race car that I’m looking forward to putting in the beams during Q1 of the U.S. Street Nationals in a couple weeks. I say it to my guys all the time: ‘Don’t bitch about it – do something about it.’ And we did.” The 2025/2026 DI Winter Series presented by J&A Service will continue Jan. 23-25 with the U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission at Bradenton Motorsports Park. This story was originally published on January 8, 2026. The post Nate Sayler Believes Big Changes Will Lead to Success at U.S. Street Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Long before the advent of liquid-cooled adventure bikes and specialized motocross weapons, there was the scrambler. In the 1960s and 70s, "scrambling" was a simple affair: take a lightweight street bike, add high-mount pipes for water crossings, knobby tires for traction, and a braced handlebar for ... View the full article