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'Tis the season!With the holiday season in full swing, crunch time has arrived for anyone still searching for that elusive gift for the gearhead in their life. Whether they’re into cars, trucks, racing, or simply anything mechanical with wheels, automotive enthusiasts can be notoriously difficult to shop for. To help ease the pressure, here are five simple, but genuinely thoughtful, gift ideas that are likely to land well. Automotive enthusiasts, gearheads, petrolheads - call them what you will - are often challenging to buy for. That’s especially true if you’re not one of them, but still want your gift to feel personal and meaningful. Sure, the easy route might be something generic, like a small tool kit (and yes, we do love those), but a little extra thought and originality can go a long way. Not every gearhead turns wrenches on weekends. Some may not even own a vehicle yet. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all gift when it comes to automotive passion. Before shopping, try to learn a bit about their interests. A favorite automaker, racing series, race team, or even tire brand can help narrow the field and make your gift feel targeted rather than transactional. Gift idea #1: Automotive outerwear & apparel (Pricing: $9 – $90) View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article This is one of the easiest - and safest - routes if you want something personal without overthinking it. Automotive-branded apparel taps directly into someone’s passion, much like wearing your favorite sports team’s colors. This is one of the easiest gifts to find in this category, no matter what the recipient's age. Hats, shirts, hoodies, socks, and even belts are easy to find online. If you’re unsure about sizing or style, accessories like keychains, wallets, or beanies are safe bets. And yes—underwear counts. I personally own a few pairs of Italian automaker-branded boxers that I treasure far more than I probably should. Gift idea #2: Air compressors, tire gauges & roadside repair kits (Pricing: $15 – $300) View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Having tools on hand for a flat tire or roadside issue isn’t just for gearheads; it’s useful for any driver. Still, many automotive enthusiasts somehow manage to overlook basics like a tire gauge, repair kit, or portable air compressor. Modern options are compact, lightweight, and easy to stash in a glove box or trunk. I’m a big fan of the latest wireless tire inflators, some of which are barely larger than a soda can and can double as power banks. Canned tire inflators might seem old-school, but they’re lifesavers for vehicles without spare tires. Repair kits range from simple plug tools to full roadside safety packages. Gift idea #3: Cleaning & detailing kits (Pricing: $40 – $250) View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A surprising number of people prefer to clean and detail their own vehicles. Many gearheads take pride in maintaining their ride, saving money while staying hands-on. It’s worth noting that cleaning and detailing aren’t the same thing. Cleaning kits typically include soap, interior wipes, upholstery cleaner, glass cleaner, and maybe an air freshener. Detailing kits focus more on paint correction and finish enhancement, often including wax, polish, microfiber towels, and sometimes buffers. Some kits also include interior detailing products. Both options make practical, appreciated gifts, especially if your recipient enjoys keeping their vehicle looking its best. Gift idea #4: Coffee table car & truck books (Pricing: $25 – $150) Singer Vehicle Design View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Yes, we live in a digital age, but a well-chosen coffee table book still has real impact. High-quality automotive books filled with stunning photography, illustrations, or historical insight can be both decorative and deeply personal. Even if you don’t know their favorite automaker or racing team, books centered around exotic cars, motorsport history, or iconic vehicle classes are safe bets. Nearly every automaker has at least one book dedicated to a halo model, and plenty of race teams have beautifully produced retrospectives. Used books, if in good condition, can also be a budget-friendly way to score something special. I recently received a compact book on the history of muscle cars. It usually lives on my coffee table, but it often finds its way into the guest room when visitors start flipping through it. Gift idea #5: Tools (Pricing: $10 - $1,000) View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Local auto parts stores and online retailers carry tool kits for every budget. From ratcheting screwdrivers and wrench sets to multitools and full emergency kits, most gearheads will gladly accept tools, even if they already own similar ones. My personal go-to gift is a compact ratcheting screwdriver kit with interchangeable bits and sockets. Pair it with a quality set of pliers, and you’ve got a genuinely useful combo. Many kits come in flimsy cases, but upgrading to a well-made, aesthetically pleasing toolbox adds a nice finishing touch. A toolbox can be a fine gift on its own as well! I firmly believe every vehicle should carry both an emergency kit and a basic tool kit. Packaging them together thoughtfully makes the gift feel intentional rather than last-minute. Final thoughts PAUL CHIASSON via Getty Images View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Yes, it’s the thought that counts, but it’s even better when that thought aligns with something the recipient truly appreciates. From scale models and dash cams to race tickets and driving experiences, the possibilities are nearly endless. Gearheads may seem hard to shop for, but with a little insight and creativity, you can deliver a gift that resonates long after the holidays are over. Happy holidays and happy shopping! View the full article

EVs Match or Beat ICE on Radiation SafetyMost people picture an electric vehicle as a massive battery pack on wheels, packed with high-voltage wiring and powerful electric motors. While that isn’t too far from the truth, the mental image does cause concerns about electromagnetic radiation exposure. As it turns out, those fears are less rational than one would think. Research conducted by Germany's ADAC automobile club showed that electric vehicles produce extremely low levels of electromagnetic radiation that remain well below international safety thresholds, and in some cases, even lower than conventional combustion vehicles. The test, while by no means exhaustive, included 11 battery electric vehicles, several plug-in hybrids, and one internal combustion vehicle. Chevrolet View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What the Numbers Actually MeanThe German study used rigorous testing methods that involved placing ten measuring probes in seat dummies and evaluating vehicles under realistic driving and charging conditions. What researchers discovered contradicts popular belief. Electric vehicles actually emitted less electromagnetic activity than the single ICE car included in the study. The electromagnetic fields that were detected appeared primarily in the footwell area near high-voltage cabling, while measurements around the head and torso remained minimal. Tests on Chinese electric vehicles showed cabin electromagnetic radiation ranging from 0.8 to 1.0 μT in the front row and 0.3 to 0.5 μT in the rear. To put this in perspective, electric blankets commonly emit between 10 and 50 μT, making warming up under a heated blanket more radioactive than sitting inside a modern EV. Nissan More worryingly, heated seats produced some of the strongest electromagnetic readings across EVs, hybrids, and ICE-powered cars. The study also examined whether charging increases radiation exposure. Brief spikes occurred during hard acceleration or when electrical components were used, but none approached concerning thresholds. Interestingly, DC fast charging actually generated weaker electromagnetic fields than slower AC charging, meaning sitting inside a charging EV shouldn't be cause for concern. There was no relation between a motor's power output and magnetic field strength either. Why EV Buyers Can Stop Worrying About RadiationTraditional gasoline and diesel vehicles contain their own electromagnetic field sources that many people never consider. Components like alternators and ignition systems all produce electromagnetic radiation during normal operation. Because electric vehicles eliminate many of these conventional parts, the total electromagnetic exposure inside the cabin can actually be lower. The German Federal Office for Radiation Protection concluded that no health-relevant effects are expected based on current scientific knowledge. Anyone who already drives an electric vehicle or is considering making the switch need not worry about electromagnetic radiation exposure. Well, at least, not any more compared to common household appliances or even conventional combustion vehicles. View the full article

While the obscenely heavy (5,368 lbs) 717-horsepower G90 BMW M5 has enormous kidney grilles, at least they're not longer than they are wide, like on an M3. And with the 2027 Life Cycle Impulse, or facelift, the so-called supercar in a suit may be even better dressed, thanks to some Neue Klasse design influence. Spy shots captured in Germany reveal revised headlights and taillights, and there may be some changes to the front bumper and its grilles, too. It's tough to be certain exactly how much will change, given the extent of the false body cladding applied to this development mule, but things definitely seem to be improving. More Elegant Front End for the 2027 G90 BMW M5 SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article At the front of this prototype are likely placeholder headlights, not the production units, but we can see that the shape is changing, with the outer edges now slanted downward instead of up. In this writer's opinion, the update makes the M5 look more like the classic Sharknose E34 M5, giving the super sedan a more aggressive look. Moving inward, the grilles appear to be a little thinner, making them look wider, but we can't be sure because the cladding underneath still bears a resemblance to the current model, whose grilles almost meet the lower intake at the middle of the bumper. SH Proshots/Autoblog Still, moving to shallower grilles would seem like a logical choice that would help the M5 blend in with the rest of the Neue Klasse family. As for those lower intakes, they appear to retain the shape and sizing of the current vehicle, and we can probably ignore the cladding on the hood and fenders. Not much of note is apparent on the sides of the M5, either, with rocker panels, glasshouse, and wing mirrors unchanged. Slightly Softer Taillights for the Refreshed G90 M5 SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article At the back, the outer edges of the taillights have also been mildly revised; the line that leads to a downward slant aimed at the rear wheels is no longer a straight edge but a subtle curve, and inside the clusters, the graphics have been updated to align with vehicles like the next 3 Series. The rear bumper of this updated M5 is a placeholder item, but it appears that the massive dual diffuser panels will be retained, allowing a tow bar to deploy and hide again without hindrance. In the cabin, we can expect the new Operating System X version of iDrive, with Panoramic Vision, just like the iX3, and a reliable source on the Bimmer Post forum reports that Alcantara will be generously applied to various surfaces. Under the skin, the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain as the current car will reappear, and it's unclear whether this will see a performance bump, but aftermarket tuners have proven that the setup can easily handle well beyond 800 hp. The current model was launched in November 2024, so don't hold your breath for the facelift until late 2026. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Jerry Bickel Race Cars, an industry-leading builder of Pro Modified-style race cars, will now serve as the presenting sponsor of the Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous division within the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series in 2026, series officials announced today. Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous presented by Jerry Bickel Race Cars will compete at all seven national events on the 2026 PDRA schedule. “We’re proud to welcome Jerry Bickel Race Cars as the new presenting sponsor for Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous,” said Will Smith, marketing director, PDRA. “JBRC has built some of the most competitive cars in the class going back to the beginning of the series, and under the new ownership of Rick Hord, I’m sure many more championship-winning, record-setting cars will come out of the JBRC shop. Like Switzer Dynamics, JBRC is committed to providing a top-notch product and service for our racers, making them a perfect partner for the class and the series.” This partnership reinforces JBRC’s long-standing commitment to supporting racers and series that prioritize competition, innovation, and giving back to the racing community. PDRA has built a reputation for fostering a family-oriented environment while continually reinvesting into its racers – values that align closely with the core philosophy of Jerry Bickel Race Cars. “We’re extremely excited to partner with PDRA and to serve as the presenting sponsor of Pro Nitrous under Switzer Dynamics,” said Rick Hord, who acquired JBRC after years of competing in Pro Mod himself. “PDRA has consistently proven that they are focused on the racers first, and that’s something we believe is critical for the long-term growth of the sport.” The Pro Nitrous class has become one of the most competitive and technically advanced categories in professional drag racing—and it’s a class where Bickel-built machines have consistently set the standard. During the 2024 season, 59% of the Pro Nitrous field competed in Jerry Bickel Race Cars chassis, underscoring JBRC’s engineering excellence and on-track performance. That dominance was further highlighted at the championship level where several of the top 10 poisitions were claimed by drivers competing in Jerry Bickel Race Cars, including newly crowned world champion Marcus Butner, as well as three-time world champion Tommy Franklin, who finished second. “As a chassis builder, it’s incredibly rewarding to see so many racers choosing our cars and succeeding at this level,” Hord said. “Pro Nitrous is one of the most exciting classes in the sport, and we’re proud to support a category where our customers continue to lead the way.” Jerry Bickel Race Cars looks forward to working alongside PDRA and Switzer Dynamics throughout the season to further elevate the Pro Nitrous class and continue supporting the racers who make it one of the premier categories in professional drag racing. The Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series will kick off the 2026 season March 25-28 at Darlington Dragway in Hartsville, South Carolina. The post Jerry Bickel Race Cars Named Presenting Sponsor of PDRA’s Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

After competing at the World Series of Pro Mod for the past two seasons, Pro 10.5 officially joined the full three-race Drag Illustrated Winter Series lineup – and Ohio doorslammer veteran Bill Lutz wasted no time making the moment count. Lutz entered the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals with something to prove and left Bradenton Motorsports Park with a $10,000 Pro 10.5 victory, capping the weekend by outrunning Super Bowl champion Fletcher Cox in a pressure-packed final round. For Lutz, the win wasn’t just about numbers on a timeslip. It was about timing, belief, and finally capitalizing on a car that had been capable of winning this race for years. “We’ve had a car to win here multiple years and either the driver messes up or something happened to the car,” Lutz said. “The car was just phenomenal from the day we unloaded it, and I told them after the first run, I was like, ‘This is our weekend. We’re going to win this damn thing,’ and here we are.” Driving his screw-blown “Big Boost” ’67 Camaro, Lutz qualified third before turning on win lights round after round. He opened eliminations by setting low E.T. of the first round, ripping off a 3.935 at 192.66 to defeat Jerry Morgano. A quarterfinal bye run kept the momentum rolling, followed by a decisive semifinal win over Nick Agostino, where Lutz laid down a 3.969 at 183.24. The final round paired Lutz with Cox, whose nitrous-assisted “Training Day” ’69 Camaro added a layer of intrigue – and intensity – to the matchup. Cox left first, but Lutz never wavered, charging past with a 3.886 at 193.88 to seal the victory. “To race somebody of his caliber, obviously, he’s an elite athlete, and I don’t care what anybody says – that all transfers over into this type of deal,” Lutz said. “He’s felt pressure, he knows pressure, and I have too. I’ve raced in every type of racing you can do, and I feel we can excel at anything, so I don’t never let pressure get to me. But to beat the guy that is quite possibly one of the best NFL linemen ever? It still means more than just outrunning a typical guy.” As meaningful as the final-round matchup was, Lutz was quick to put the weekend into historical context. Among a career filled with marquee moments, this one stands tall. “I tell you, it ranks right up there with winning Shadyside’s King of the South,” he said. “That was a massive race to win, but I’m telling you, this is right there with it.” Equally important to Lutz was the team effort behind the scenes. With son Kenny leading the charge and Patrick Miller handling tuning duties, the operation delivered exactly when it mattered most. “I never do it without my crew,” Lutz said. “It’s a team effort, and without them, I’m nothing.” Beyond the win itself, Lutz sees Pro 10.5 as a class worth investing in – literally. Rather than chasing the path of least resistance, he’s committed to helping grow the category within the Winter Series. “Honestly, if I had any brains, my car should be running in the True 10.5 class because it’s so light,” Lutz admitted. “I’m here on a 33×10.5 to support the class, and I’m willing to put money into it to help grow it. I think at the U.S. Street Nationals, we will have 16, maybe even 20 cars.” For a racer who has spent decades chasing big moments, the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals delivered more than a trophy. It delivered validation – of the car, the team, and the belief that when preparation meets opportunity, everything finally clicks. “We more or less follow with the money anymore,” Lutz said. “But to win this is phenomenal. It’s a lifelong dream.” This story was originally published on December 22, 2025. The post “It Was Our Weekend”: Bill Lutz Delivers Long-Awaited Breakthrough at Snowbird Outlaw Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Garrett Mitchell, a popular YouTuber more commonly referred to as Cleetus McFarland, had only known Greg Biffle for about 1.5 years, but they had quickly become close friends, and they were planning to spend the day together when the fatal plane crash occurred. Biffle, his wife Cristinia, their son Ryder, and his son Emma were among seven killed in a tragic plane crash last week. The accident ...Keep readingView the full article

A new class action lawsuit claims 2022–2023 Kia Carnival minivans still have dangerous power sliding doors, even after a recall that was supposed to fix them. Filed in federal court in Maryland, the case argues the recall didn’t address an allegedly defective pinch sensor and that every affected Carnival is now worth less because of it. Kia, for its part, has fired back with a motion to dismiss, saying the suit is built on worries, not real-world damage. It’s a sharp contrast to the value-forward image the brand has tried to build with other models, from midsize sedans like the K5, to budget-friendly newcomers like the K4. Recall, Investigation, And A Pinch-Sensor ProblemPlaintiffs Rachel and Andrew Langerhans bought a new 2022 Kia Carnival SX in November 2021. Within a few months, they say they noticed the power sliding doors weren’t reacting properly when they hit obstacles or people while closing, and they weren’t alone. By early 2023, complaints to federal regulators had triggered a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation into the 2022 Carnival’s sliding doors, focused on the auto-reverse function that’s supposed to stop and back the door up if it hits something. Kia responded with an April 2023 recall covering roughly 51,000 2022–2023 Carnivals. The fix, documented under campaign SC266, involved a software update that slowed the doors as they approached the latch and added extra warning chimes, giving people more time to move clear. NHTSA closed its investigation based on that remedy. The Langerhans had the recall work done and told the dealer they were worried about the door’s pinch sensors, but technicians said the system was working as designed. Owners Say The Fix Didn’t Change The ForceThe class action, Langerhans v. Kia Corporation, argues the recall didn’t change the underlying problem. According to the complaint, the pinch sensors along the door edge still require too much force to trigger, meaning the door can keep closing on a child, pet or adult before it finally reverses. The lawsuit calls the software update a “band-aid” that does nothing to reduce the force needed to activate the sensors. Because of that, the plaintiffs say they have to closely supervise their kids whenever the doors operate and that their Carnival, and every other recalled Carnival in the country, is now worth less on the used market. It’s a familiar theme for a brand that also leans heavily on aggressive pricing pitches elsewhere in the lineup. Here, though, the focus is on alleged lost value rather than value for money. Kia Calls The Case HypotheticalKia’s motion to dismiss takes a very different view. The company points out that the plaintiffs don’t claim they or their children have suffered any injuries from the sliding doors. Instead, they say they “have concerns” about what could happen. Kia also notes that the Langerhans don’t allege any post-recall malfunctions and haven’t gone back to the dealer after the recall work if they truly believe it failed. Without a current defect showing up on their own van, the automaker argues, the lawsuit asks the court to rule on hypotheticals. The company also raises a procedural defense, arguing the case doesn’t belong in court at all because the buyers signed a binding arbitration agreement when they purchased the Carnival. For us, none of this stops the minivan from remaining on sale. View the full article

The 2026 Can-Am Maverick R Xrc pushes the high-performance Maverick R platform into new terrain with a dedicated focus on rock-crawling domination. Built from the ground up to tackle the toughest technical trails, this purpose-built machine pairs the Maverick R’s potent turbocharged 240 hp Rotax engine and rugged chassis with rock-ready features like Smart-Lok with Rock mode and oversized 35-inch XPS Hammer King tires, giving drivers unparalleled traction and capability where others stall. With premium tech such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen, front/rear cameras, and available Smart-Shox adaptive suspension, the Maverick R Xrc blends cutting-edge performance with everyday usability for serious off-road enthusiasts. We spent two days rock crawling at Southern Utah’s premiere rock crawling destinations, Sand Hollow, with three different drivers behind the wheel on three different trails. First up, Jon Crowley took on Double Sammy. Then Chad Hughes hit up Milt’s Mile. And finally Justin Kee traversed West Rim. Watch all the action and get all of our feedback in the video below: The Can-Am Maverick R X rc package includes a range of rock-crawling-specific features like an Extra Low gear range (with transmission from 4 seat Maverick R) and ROCK mode for the Smart-Lok differential, optimizing rock-crawling capabilities. Other features include: 35-inch XPS Hammer King tires FOX steering damper HMW skid plate, rock sliders and arm guards Intrusion bar High clearance radius rod Audio system LED light on the hood Front and rear cameras Can-Am Maverick R X rc Can-Am Maverick R X rc Can-Am Maverick R X rc Can-Am Maverick R X rc The King of the Rocks: the Can-Am Maverick R X rc The post Can-Am Maverick R Xrc Rock Crawling Review appeared first on UTV Guide. View the full article

A Nameplate We All Once LovedFor years, the Honda Fit earned a devoted following in the U.S. because of its remarkable fuel efficiency and cleverly designed practicality. Its hallmark “Magic Seat” system gave the subcompact hatchback near-mythical versatility, allowing owners to configure the interior for bulky cargo, long items, or even a quick nap. Critics praised the Fit for punching above its size, delivering a level of interior space and usability that embarrassed larger, pricier competitors. It became especially popular among urban dwellers, college students, and anyone who valued smart engineering over sheer style. But that chapter closed after the 2020 model year, when Honda discontinued the Fit in America as buyers gravitated toward SUVs and crossovers. The Fit’s fate reflected a broader market shift away from small cars, combined with rising costs tied to emissions and safety standards. Overseas, however, the Fit nameplate continued to evolve, though in forms that have increasingly diverged from the approachable, efficiency-first model U.S. drivers once knew. Minisitry of Industry and Information Technology China A China-Only Fit With a Radical New FaceThe latest iteration of the Fit story now unfolds in China, where GAC-Honda is preparing to launch a heavily restyled version of the current-generation model. While the car’s proportions and side profile remain recognizable, the redesigned front end marks a striking departure from tradition. Leaked images from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, as reported by Autohome, show a split-headlight design and a sharper, more angular front fascia, replacing the friendly, rounded look of past Fits. The new styling pushes the car closer to the aesthetic of rivals like the Toyota Yaris, with slim upper LED strips, separated main beams, and a bold lower grille that gives the hatchback a more aggressive stance. Rear updates are subtler, retaining much of the JDM Fit's look, limited to a revised bumper that mimics a diffuser, but the overall effect is a distinctly edgier Fit. The car stretches slightly longer, to 165 inches, but mechanically, it stays firmly in familiar territory. Minisitry of Industry and Information Technology China Powertrain and Market-Specific DetailsUnder the hood, the Chinese-market Fit carries a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower. That’s a modest bump from the Japanese version, but the formula remains classic Honda: front-wheel drive paired with a CVT, and no hybrid or all-wheel-drive options. It’s a straightforward setup aimed at keeping costs and complexity low, appealing to first-time buyers in a value-driven segment. Interior details remain under wraps, leaving questions about whether Honda plans a more substantial refresh inside. Similarly, the brand has not confirmed whether the Crosstar or Sport trims, which previously added rugged or sporty styling, will return. Alongside this GAC-Honda version, China will also continue selling the Dongfeng-Honda Life, a close twin with more conservative styling that is expected to receive its own update soon. Despite sharing a familiar name, the odds of this newly styled Fit making it to American showrooms are virtually zero. Honda’s earlier decision to retire the model reflected a strategic realignment toward small crossovers like the HR-V, which now serves as the brand’s entry-level offering. View the full article

A Mustang With a Point to ProveWhen Top Gear stages a lap-time test, the results tend to resonate well beyond the perimeter fence of their test tracks. It has long served as a neutral proving ground where marketing claims collide with the stopwatch. In the show’s latest YouTube feature, that tradition continued with the arrival of the Ford Mustang GTD, handed to The Stig for a full-bore attempt to validate Ford’s boldest performance promises yet. Ford’s ambition for the GTD has never been subtle. CEO Jim Farley has openly cited the Porsche 911 GT3 RS as the benchmark, framing the GTD as a road-legal offshoot of Ford’s GT3 racing program rather than a conventional muscle car. On the Top Gear leaderboard, that meant aiming at the GT3 RS’s 1:14.8 lap time. Given the Mustang’s front-engine layout, substantial curb weight, and sheer physical size, the target looked aggressive. Even so, Ford arrived armed with 815 horsepower, race-derived Multimatic suspension, carbon bodywork, and active aerodynamics rarely seen on an American production car. How the GTD Delivered a Shock ResultEngaging Track mode fundamentally alters the GTD’s character. The suspension drops the ride height by roughly 2 inches, stiffening the springs and dampers while recalibrating the car for maximum circuit performance. At the same time, its active aerodynamic systems come alive, with adjustable front splitter elements and a hydraulically controlled rear wing capable of deploying drag reduction on the straights, generating meaningful downforce without sacrificing straight-line speed. That hardware translated into immediate confidence on the stopwatch lap. Through notoriously awkward sections such as Chicago and Hammerhead, the GTD remained composed, absorbing bumps and kerbs that often unsettle stiffer, lighter cars. Data shown during the lap revealed braking forces of 1.64 G and lateral loads exceeding 2.0 g through Follow Through, figures that place the Mustang firmly in supercar territory. On the back straight, the GTD reached 149 mph before hauling itself down for the final corners, its carbon brakes visibly glowing under sustained punishment. Ford And the Results are In...The final time is 1:13.7, putting the Mustang GTD more than a second clear of the GT3 RS on the Top Gear test track. Context matters, however. On longer, more complex circuits such as the Nürburgring, Porsche still holds the advantage, with its benchmark laps remaining several seconds quicker than Ford’s best effort. Dunsfold’s bumps, transitions, and short straights played to the GTD’s strengths. Even so, the significance is hard to overstate. This lap reframes the Mustang nameplate, positioning it as a credible threat to Europe’s most focused track cars rather than a straight-line bruiser with racing stripes. Ford View the full article

Team Z's new tubular front ends for the 4th Gen F-bodies save weight and create space. These kits make it easier to add turbo kits and more.View the full article

A revived Phelon and Moore is launching cruisers, adventure bikes, and scooters all at once, and that’s a big move for a brand many riders have never heard of.View the full article

At the beginning of December, Stellantis had to recall some 2019 and 2020 Ram pickups, including the 1500, 2500, and 3500, over an airbag problem that could send metal shrapnel flying through the cabin. And now, as the month draws to a close, Ram is being forced to recall its biggest pickup trucks for airbag problems once again, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This time around, there's a single malfunction that could result in three different and dangerous problems, with the airbags, seatbelts, and electronic stability control system all potentially failing to work as intended. And this time, the recall impacts every class of Ram truck but the smallest (the 1500). More Than 52,000 Ram Pickups Being Recalled Stellantis According to the NHTSA recall report, 52,565 examples of the 2025 Ram 2500, 3500 Pickup and 3500 Cab Chassis, 4500 Cab Chassis, and 5500 Cab Chassis are potentially impacted by a software error in the occupant restraint controller module. The vehicles, produced between July 18, 2024, and May 22, 2025, have modules "which may go into an offline state while driving," and if this happens, it could not only mean a faulty driver's side airbag, but also a faulty seatbelt pretensioner and a disabled electronic stability control system. As winter is officially upon us, this is particularly worrying. Not only could these drivers of these trucks be at a greater risk of losing control of the pickups and crashing, but they might not be adequately protected when they do. And there's another problem. Sorry, Ram Owners, but This Recall Requires a Dealer Visit Stellantis Although this is a software-related issue, much like the problem that caused a recall of 72,000 Ram pickups earlier this month for faulty instrument clusters, it cannot be resolved with a simple over-the-air update, and owners will have to visit the dealer for a reflash of the occupant restraint module. And although dealers have already been informed and VINs are searchable on nhtsa.gov, the remedy notification program is only planned for January 15 and 16, 2026, so owners will have almost four weeks of waiting before their pickups are deemed safe again. With these heavy-duty trucks used for a variety of purposes nationwide, including as tow trucks, snow plows, flatbeds, and dump trucks, this isn't good news. The one upside is that the problem isn't deemed serious enough to warrant a Do Not Drive warning. Hopefully, the midsize Dakota will be more reliable when it returns in 2028. View the full article

Straight-Line Racing Still Tells a StoryDrag races don’t tell the whole story about a car’s performance, but they do reveal a lot about straight-line speed, traction, and how well a car actually puts its power down. In that sense, the Tesla Model S Plaid comes out swinging. Thanks to its tri-motor setup and instant torque, there’s no waiting for revs, gear changes, or boost – it just launches. On paper, it’s a weapon off the line. But drag racing isn’t just about who gets the best launch. To really see how the Plaid measures up against the tod-dog version of America’s sports car, Hennessey Performance put it head-to-head with the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 in two types of races: standing starts and rolling starts. Strip away the corners, focus on pure acceleration, and you get a clear look at which approach works best depending on how the race kicks off. The Tale of the TapeOn paper, this matchup is tighter than you’d think. The Model S Plaid throws down about 1,020 horsepower, hits 0-60 mph in just under two seconds, and can blast through the quarter-mile in the low nines at 155 mph. But it’s also hauling more than 4,800 pounds, and needless to say, that extra weight matters in this scenario. Meanwhile, the Corvette ZR1 champions the combustion-powered performance. Its twin-turbo 5.5-liter flat-plane V8 cranks out 1,064 hp and 828 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. With carbon-ceramic brakes and real aero, it’s built to stay planted even as the speed climbs into serious territory. The ZR1 has already shown what it can do on proper race tracks, including the dreaded Nürburgring in Germany. But here, the test is stripped down to basics. No corners, no braking – just a straight shot to see how fast each car can cover a quarter-mile in different scenarios. Chevrolet View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The Results Depend on the StartIn the standing-start quarter-mile runs, the Model S Plaid took both wins. Instant torque and all-wheel-drive traction let it leap out front and stay there all the way to the line. From a dig, the Tesla does exactly what you’d expect, just like it did at a proper drag strip before. On rolling starts, however, the results were different. While the Model S Plaid got the early jump, the Corvette ZR1 pulled considerably ahead in both runs at around 100-120 mph. Evidently, the ZR1’s power and gearing took over at high speeds, proving the gas-powered supercar isn’t outmatched once traction stops being the main hurdle. Tesla View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Lainey Abney’s path to the driver’s seat wasn’t traditional. Jr. Dragsters weren’t her thing, and she instead opted for a 110cc dirt bike to get experience going down the dragstrip. She estimates she’s made a thousand passes on the dirt bike starting at age 11. Now 21, she races in Lil Gangstas and True Street in her turbocharged, LS-powered ‘06 Mustang, turning on win lights while hoping to inspire the next wave of young girls interested in the sport. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Abney graduated from the dirt bike to a door car when she was just 13 years old. Her father, Mike, let her make a pass in his C5 Corvette. “I was hooked,” she says. “We took it out every weekend after that and I just made pass after pass after pass.” Eventually, they made upgrades including adding a Nitrous Express kit. “It reached the point where it was way too fast without a cage,” she says. “That’s when we got into the Mustang I have now.” As far as actual event wins go, Abney counts her Power Adder class victory at Holley’s LS Fest this year as a career highlight. But it was a True Street win at her home track over longtime mentor Tom Gunner – better known as “Jimmy Dale” – that held more personal meaning. “Tom has always taken Lainey under his wing,” explains Mike Abney. “He’d always work with her and push her to be a better racer. He let her drive ‘Magic,’ his pride-and-joy car, when she was 16. It meant a lot to her to finally beat her mentor after all these years.” Lainey remembers the moment clearly. “It was a heads-up race and I beat him. I was so pumped. I got out of the car screaming, ‘Oh my gosh, how did I beat you?’ I didn’t think there was any way.” With experience, Abney has also grown into a more mature, composed competitor. “I used to be a very sore loser,” she admits. “If I lost, I’d be very mad. I would throw my helmet, not talk to anybody. Now, this is just for fun, even if I lose.” With that mindset, she finds validation in more than just win lights, trophies, and big checks at the end of the night. “I really like just seeing kids’ faces light up when they find out I’m a girl or that I’m young,” she says. “I think that really motivates me and pushes me to keep doing this.” Abney’s schedule for the 2026 season includes plenty of outings with the Lil Gangstas class, which is quickly growing into one of the biggest movements in grassroots racing. That suits Abney’s goals perfectly. “I would like to go to more states and travel more,” she says. “And get faster. I would like to be able to go up in classes and compete with the real fast people.” Her support system will be with her every step of the way. “I would first like to thank my family – especially my mom and my dad for always being there and supporting me,” she says. She also credits mentors like Mike Wood, Michael Poland, Brent Albury, Tom Gunner, and Dakota LSX, along with her sponsors. “Without all of your help, I would not be able to be as fast and as reliable as I am.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Lainey Abney first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Ducati’s off-road stars carried the Olympic flame across Italy for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games.View the full article

Different NCAPs, Very Different OutcomesMost people see New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) safety ratings as a universal standard, but the truth is, they’re anything but. Each region has its own tests, priorities, and scoring standards. The Suzuki Fronx, a subcompact SUV sold in most Asian countries and Australia, is a perfect example of how those differences play out. Of note, the Fronx is also sold in some parts of the world with a Toyota badge. In October, the Fronx received a five-star rating from ASEAN NCAP, which should have made it a safe bet for families in Southeast Asia. But when ANCAP put the same model through its paces, the result was a shock: just one star, missing the lowest rating a vehicle could get by a whisker. The consequence was immediate – Suzuki Australia pulled the Fronx from showrooms while they figure out what went wrong. That doesn’t mean one test is right and the other is wrong. What it does show is how easy it is for buyers to get the wrong idea if they just look at the stars and skip the details. In this case, the ANCAP result raised red flags that no one could ignore. What Went Wrong in ANCAP TestingANCAP’s tests showed the Fronx struggled in several crash scenarios, especially when it came to protecting adults and kids inside. The biggest problem showed up in a full-width frontal crash, where the rear seatbelt retractor failed. That meant the belt let go, leaving the rear dummy unrestrained and sending it straight into the front seat. ANCAP called the seatbelt failure “rare and serious,” and told owners of about 1,300 Fronx units in Australia and another 1,000 in New Zealand not to use the back seats until there’s a fix. Even before the seatbelt issue, the Fronx had already scored zero in some parts of the test, so the one-star rating wasn’t just about that one problem. Suzuki Australia says it’s working closely with the factory in Japan and local regulators to get to the bottom of the problem and has stopped sales of the SUV. The Fronx already meets local certification and comes with features like AEB and lane-keeping assist, but right now, the priority is fixing the basics – making sure the seatbelts do their job. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog This Isn’t Suzuki’s First Safety Wake-Up CallThis isn’t the first time Suzuki has faced tough questions about safety. The Swift hatchback, which shares its platform with the Fronx, got a zero from Latin NCAP in 2021. The S-Presso, a small city car, also scored zero in 2020, but after some updates and a retest, it managed three stars in 2022. Whether the Fronx can bounce back from this recent fall is a mystery at this point. For now, this is a caution that safety ratings can change, and a five-star badge in one region doesn’t mean much somewhere else. Plus, seatbelts not working is a dire issue, which shouldn't have happened in this day and age. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Big motocross jumps are already insane. But what if you tether a bunch together, and then jump gaps over open water? Easy, you get a Red Bull video. View the full article

This untouched two-stroke survivor just resurfaced after two decades, offering enthusiasts a rare shot at true powersports history.View the full article

Safety SellsIf there's one truth about automotive sales these days, it is that, apart from sustainability and value-for-money, safety is a top priority for car buyers. In comparison, it may not seem like the most interesting topic about cars, safety tests, and the results are – and should be – significant considerations for anybody looking to buy a brand-new vehicle. Subaru is one of the brands that uses safety to further its brand, pioneering the use of its award-winning Eyesight technology and improving production to ensure safety for all its customers. More importantly, the star-spangled brand recently added a notch to its safety front, with the latest Subaru Forester getting the Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) – the highest honor the institution awards. Hitting the MarkThe Subaru Forester's recent award was announced on the IIHS's official list of results, the latest round of its safety tests. Of note, to earn the coveted TSP+ rating, the car had to score "Good" in all three of the following categories: Crashworthiness, Crash Avoidance and Mitigation, and Seatbelts and Child Restraints. Digging a little deeper into the IIHS results, the intensive testing shows that all the hard work Subaru puts into safety pays off across all significant aspects. In terms of driver's safety, the Forester got a Good rating for Head, Chest, Hip, and Thigh safety, with the lower leg or foot rating at A (acceptable). Passenger safety results show as Good-rated across all aspects in front- and side-impact tests. As mentioned, Subaru is very proud of its Eyesight safety suite technology, and during the test, it performed as intended. The IIHS tested the Eyesight pre-collision braking at speeds from 31 to 43 mph using different obstacles, such as a passenger car, a motorcycle, and a semi-trailer. The Eyesight system promptly detected and avoided a collision, earning it a Good rating. It also performed well on pedestrian collision avoidance, with the test conducted in "day" and "night" simulations. Safest Ever ForesterThe results speak for themselves: the 2026 Forester is one of the safest vehicles you can buy today. It must be noted, though, that an A rating is more than sufficient for pedestrian front collision prevention and headlight performance. This is because the standards are slightly more lenient on these criteria. The last time a Forester received the TSP+ rating was in 2022, but back then, safety tests weren't as rigorous as they are now, making the 2026 model the safest ever. Cole Attisha View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Rad Bikes has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and hopes to sell the company within the next two months, but its debts far outweigh its assets.View the full article

The F-Pace Bows OutJaguar has officially rolled the final F-Pace off its production line in Solihull, England. More significantly, the milestone marks Jaguar’s last internal-combustion model to be built as the brand prepares to transition to an all-electric future, even as more competitors across the industry scale back their EV ambitions. According to a report from the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club, the final example built was an F-Pace SVR, the range-topping performance variant of the luxury SUV. The SVR is powered by Jaguar’s in-house 5.0-liter supercharged V8, an engine that produces 542 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque in standard form. As a fitting tribute to the end of an era, the vehicle has been handed over to the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust in Gaydon, where it will be displayed alongside other historically significant models, including the final Jaguar XE and the very first SS Jaguar. Turning the Page on CombustionWhile the final unit has now been produced, the F-Pace, which went on sale in 2016, is not gone just yet. In the U.S., the F-Pace currently starts at around $57,000, while the range-topping SVR 575 Edition, which increases output to 567 hp, starts at approximately $93,000. That availability, however, is time-limited. As Jaguar restructures its portfolio under the all-electric Reimagine strategy, the F-Pace – along with the rest of the brand’s current lineup – is set to be discontinued. This includes the I-Pace, Jaguar’s first battery-electric model, which remains in service today as part of Waymo’s autonomous vehicle fleet. No direct replacement has been officially revealed yet, although Jaguar has offered a glimpse of its future direction through the four-door grand tourer Type 00 concept. Details surrounding Jaguar’s first next-generation EV remain limited, but early reports suggest it will feature a tri-motor configuration producing around 1,000 horsepower. That would place it in the same performance bracket as the Tesla Model S Plaid. The new model is widely expected to make its debut sometime in mid- to late-2026. Setting the Stage for Jaguar’s EV EraBy the time that vehicle arrives, several rivals that once committed to all-electric futures will already have adjusted their strategies to retain combustion or hybrid options. Volvo, for example, previously pledged to go fully electric by 2030 but has since pivoted toward a more diversified lineup that includes plug-in hybrids. Jaguar’s corporate sibling, Land Rover, has also slowed the pace of its EV rollout, with earlier expectations of a larger lineup of electric models by 2026 now giving way to a more conservative rollout focused on key vehicles such as the Range Rover EV. How these recalibrated strategies ultimately play out remains to be seen, though Jaguar will be hoping its reboot helps reverse its recent sales challenges, even if that means operating as a more exclusive, niche brand going forward. In the meantime, Jaguar’s U.S. customer-facing website continues to list the E-Pace, I-Pace, XF, F-Type, and, as mentioned, the F-Pace – the brand’s best-selling model of the modern era. Cole Attisha View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Red Bull Erzbergrodeo regulations have been amended to allow electric motorcycles, namely the Stark Varg, to run in all events. Here are the details.View the full article

Our politicians continue their fight to sell off public lands. More insulting than the overwhelming support for them, they want to sell these lands off for pennies compared to what they bring in. View the full article

When you hear that the Simola HillClimb is the biggest motor racing event in the entire country of South Africa, it really hits home as to how popular this event really is. And with 2025 being the biggest one ever, it is awesome to hear that all the heavy hitters, who have won the title of King of the Hill in the past, were on hand to take a swing at the mountain for another title. Check out the Top 20 below! Video Description: Simola HillClimb 2025, the biggest Motor Racing event in South Africa, has reached new heights this edition, with all the the great Monsters in the country being reunited during a weekend to find out a new King of the Hill!! In an event where having 1000Hp has become normal and the level of the machinery has risen to absurd levels, here we have some of the best Nissan GT-R, Lotus Exige, Audi, Toyota builds in the World, this year also accompanied by a very Special guest, the most dominating RallyCross driver ever, Johann Kristoffersson, with the fully Electric VW Polo RX1e, to give a very unique perspective. The event would also be marked by a very unfortunate trgedy, the crash of Pieter Joubert, which ended up having the worst outcome possible. With his brother allowing the evtn to proceed, we would also see a New Record being broken by an incredible margin, marking an entirely new Era in Simola, where the times are tumbling down in an insane rate!! The post TOP 20 VIDEO: HILLCLIMB MONSTERS FROM SIMOLA || KING OF THE HILL 2025 SET A NEW RECORD! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article