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Ever get confused by all the numbers telling you the specs and dimensions for the wheels on your truck? Adding to the confusion of all the different terms is the fact that both wheels and tires use the silliest combination of metric and standard for their measurements. So let's clear things up! For wheels, you have four main measurements: diameter, width, backspace and offset. What are they? Why are they important? In this post, we're going to take a look and discuss how they affect both the look and performance of your truck, specifically for Toyotas. Buckle in! Diameter Diameter is pretty simple: it's how large the wheel is across the circumference. The larger the wheel, the shorter the tire sidewall will be. So the first question is, how short do you want your sidewall? For off-road, you want a larger tire sidewall to allow the tire to wrap around obstacles and give more traction. For street, you want a shorter sidewall so you get better handling as the tire won't deflect as much around corners. You also need to pay attention to what size wheel will fit your vehicle as brakes can come into contact with wheels that are too small. As we work mostly on off-road Toyotas in our shop, we typically install 17” rims on Tacomas and 4Runners. Some 16” rims can fit the Tacoma, but not the 4Runner. Width Width is probably even simpler than diameter. It’s the measurement of how wide the rim is. You want to select a rim width depending on what size tire you're installing. If your rim is too wide for your tire, then the bead (the part that boa bra bra) can pop off really easily. On the other hand, if your rim is too narrow, then that will change your tire profile and give worse traction and bad wear patterns. Keeping with our Toyota theme, we typically recommend a rim around 8.5” that will fit most 33s and most 35s. Backspace Backspace is the measurement from the wheel mounting surface to the inside edge of the rim. This is important because if your backspace is too high (wheel further into the wheel well), then you can rub on the UCA, spindle or frame, depending on your tire size. A low backspace on the other hand will make the wheel “poke” out of the wheel well, which might be a cool look but is going to affect the scrub radius and cause the tire to rub on the fenders or firewall. Backspace is affected by how wide the rim is. So if you’re running an 8.5” wide wheel with a 4.5” backspace, then the wheel will be 4” outside of the wheel mounting surface. Of course, where and how much your tire rubs depends on what size tire you’re running. I typically recommend somewhere between a 4 to 4.75” backspace. However, some people like lower backspace to get that staaaaaaaance. Offset Our final measurement is offset, which is linked directly to backspace. Basically, offset refers to how far the wheel mounting surface is to the wheel’s centreline. This is the only spec that is in MILLIMETRES for NO REASON. A lower offset means a lower backspace. Common offsets for off-road people are 0 or -10. However, I’ve seen people who want lots of poke who go all the way down to -38. Personally, I prefer to use backspace over offset because it makes more sense to me, but offset is very similar. Everybody has their preference, but people that prefer offset are just a little weird. Summary That's a wrap! That's the basics on wheel fitment. Hopefully that helped to clear some of the cobwebs and make sense of a topic that's been way overcomplicated. I’d love to hear from you. What size wheel do you run? Do you prefer offset over backspace? (Why????) Do you like a bunch of poke or prefer a more conservative stance? Let me know below in the comments and make sure you check our YouTube channel where we share more useful content like this. Or if you're looking for wheels yourself, be sure to check out what we offer! View the full article

A few months ago, Porsche revealed the 992.2 911 Turbo S with a staggering 701 hp, and as always, certain styling cues that differentiate it from a regular 911. But what if you don't want that much power and that much attention? Well, it seems that Stuttgart is about to have you covered, as spy shots of a new prototype on the Nürburgring hint at the first 911 Turbo Touring. The development mule has a deployable rear spoiler rather than the fixed wing found on the regular GT3 and Turbo models, hence the supposition that this is a Turbo Touring, but it's also got a sleeker body, with the side intake scoops taped over. This presents a puzzle for us to solve. 911 Turbo Touring or Non-S Turbo Variant? SH Proshots/Autoblog On the one hand, the smoother body might be a way of Porsche offering customers the same performance as the raucous Turbo S, with the full 701 horses, in a sleeker 'Touring' body. On the other, taping up those side intakes in preparation for a smoother form in production could be an indication that Porsche is aiming to differentiate the non-S Turbo, which will doubtless have less power. With less strain on the engine, perhaps the 911 Turbo doesn't need as much cooling capacity. But this is Porsche, and that means we need to be cognizant of a third, similarly plausible possibility: This might be a special edition. Related: This Limited Edition Porsche Is A Personal Tribute To The Inventor Of The 911 Porsche already introduced 992.1 Turbo-based 50 Years and Sport Classic special editions, and while a third limited variant might seem like overkill, it would be the first based on the 992.2 update. Porsche has a rich heritage from which to draw inspiration, and if this is a special edition, it would surely be quickly snapped up by collectors. Still, fingers crossed that this is a Touring. The 911 Turbo S Platform Delivers Plenty of Innovation SH Proshots/Autoblog Using a similar T-Hybrid setup to that of the 911 GTS, the recently revealed Turbo S features two turbochargers with electrified turbines connected to a 3.6-liter flat-six boxer engine. There's also an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. The result is 701 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque that can be accessed almost instantly, almost anywhere in the rev range; the electric turbines practically eliminate lag. 0-60 mph takes just 2.4 seconds, and in a lap around the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the 992.2 Turbo S is a massive 14 seconds quicker than its predecessor. In a nutshell, this car has bombastic performance, and we can certainly see the case for a slightly less ballistic alternative. We'll just have to wait for the new year to see what form this prototype finally takes and how much power Porsche will deliver. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Meziere Enterprises has added to its suspension components offering. These new Titanium parts save weight and add strength. View the full article

Smoked Garage turns the TVS Apache RR 310 single-cylinder sportbike into a fluid neo-retro café racer.The TVS Apache RR 310 might be small, but it's a firecracker. Its 312 cc single-cylinder mill makes 37.5 hp and 29 Nm, and comes with a six-speed transmission, a quick-shifter, and a suite of electr... View the full article

We get a lot of people coming to us wanting to get off road and often, they just want to know where to start when they're building their truck. If this is you, then this post is for you. There are different directions you could go in depending on where you live and what you want to do, so I’m going to share the order I recommend you go in to upgrade your truck so you can get to all of the places you want to go, comfortably and confidently. It’s worth saying that the purpose here isn’t to build a hard-core rock crawler or a go-fast desert racer but a versatile rig that'll get you where you want to go. Let’s get started. 1. What do you want to do the most? Upgrading your truck can be an expensive hobby, so if you're just getting started, I always recommend that you think very practically. What do you want to do? What do you need your truck to do? What makes the most sense for you? Do that first. If it’s camping, then get some sort of tent. Need dry, lockable storage? Then maybe take a look at a tonneau or a canopy. You’ll get the most value out of what you make the most use of, so that’s where you should always start. 2. Tires Tires are one of the most important upgrades you can do to your truck. Tires are your only contact to the ground (hopefully) and they’re the best way to gain ground clearance and traction. There are two things to choose from when you’re looking at tires: what size do you need and what kind. When it comes to the kind of tire, you're looking at all-terrain or mud-terrain depending on how aggressive you are and what kind of terrain you drive on the most. With size, you can go with more a stock size, you can go huge with a 35" if you want to go wheeling, and right in the middle, you could go for something like a 33” which is a good compromise—good on road, good off-road, That’s a decision you want to make right up front so you can get those tires on the ground and build the rest of your truck around the size of tire you want. 3. Sliders/skids Almost as important as tires are sliders and skids. Here in BC, Canada, the trails are tight, there are lots of trees and big rocks. Odds are you’re going to bash your vehicle and you want to protect it. You do that using sliders and skids. Sliders will protect the sides of your vehicle from trees, letting you slide around obstacles. If you land on a rock, they’ll protect you from that too. You can also use them as a Hi-Lift point, which often comes in handy. Skids will make sure you don’t put a hole in your oil pan or rip out your coolant line. Not speaking from personal experience or anything. When you’re going out in the middle of nowhere, It’s important to protect the most vulnerable parts of your vehicle from damage because BCAA's not going to come out to get you. I mean they might but— They’re not coming to get you. 4. Suspension Suspension is one of the most exciting things you can add to your truck. People hear suspension and they think, “Oh I want to get that lift...” To me, it’s not that important. I would rather go for performance and the ability to haul weight so when you start loading stuff on your truck and putting bumpers and sliders on, you’re able to support that weight when you’re going down back roads. Higher performing suspension will also give a much nicer ride off-road and be easier on your vehicle as well as your body. 5. Lockers Lockers will help you go more places than almost any other mod. What lockers do is help transfer power to both wheels by locking the axle to help you climb over obstacles or get through muddy terrain. You want your wheels to always have traction and these new electronic gadgets like A-TRAC work pretty well but won’t give you as much control as a locker will. 6. Bumpers Bumpers are a great upgrade for a bunch of reasons. Obviously, they provide protection for smashing into stuff. But they’re also very useful for providing recovery points on all four corners of your vehicle. Ideally you do your front and rear bumper at the same time, but it’s not necessary. If you can’t, then you’ll have to decide what is more important to you: A front bumper is good for moving forward and can allow the installation of a winch and a lightbar. A rear bumper is good for protection and recovery moving backwards. 7. Winches Nothing will save you like a winch will. If you are starting to go out more alone, or to more difficult terrain, this is a very handy upgrade to have. A winch is ideally installed at the same time as a front bumper to save time and effort. 8. Lights The last thing on my list is lights. I often see people put lights on their vehicle first because it’s a quick, easy and relatively cheap thing you can do. And they are really cool and fun, but for me lights are low-priority. Don’t get me wrong: they're great for seeing at night, especially when you want to back up or look around corners going forward without nailling cross ditches. But they’re not as important as the other stuff on this list in my opinion, especially if you’re looking to build a capable truck that gets you places. What next? So that’s it! At this point, once you get through this list, your vehicle is pretty capable. From here, order isn’t as important anymore and we’re back at what makes sense for you. If you want to pack around a bunch of stuff on your roof, then maybe a roof rack is the right move. Or if you find that you are away camping for several days in a row without seeing another person, a fridge could be a game changer. The biggest thing is to just get out and use what you have. You don’t need all this stuff to go outside and have fun. Sum it up: Whatever you use the most Tires Skids/Sliders Suspension Locker Bumpers Winch Lights A rule of thumb that I used to get my truck to the point it’s at now, was if I couldn’t get to three places I wanted to go because of an upgrade that held me back, then I would do that. This helped us upgrade slowly and still get out exploring. We started out at all the well-known and easy places and as we got more confident and experienced, and the truck became more capable, we started going further and further away to more and more difficult locations. But that’s just what I think. What do you think? What did I miss? Did I forget something obvious? Let me know in the comments! View the full article

Ferrari has made headlines nonstop this year for a wide range of reasons, from oval-shaped piston designs to the controversial 849 Testarossa release. But this week, one of Maranello’s most expensive modern creations made the news for far less glamorous reasons. A stolen Ferrari Purosangue was crashed into a utility pole in Miami’s Brickell district following a brief police pursuit, triggering a power outage and an investigation that’s still unfolding. What began as a routine luxury vehicle transport quickly spiralled into a very public and very expensive mess. Two Super SUVs Gone Missing YouTube @ WSVN-TV Bentley Gold Coast According to NBC6, the incident dates back to Monday, 15 December, when a Miami Beach resident handed over two ultra-luxury SUVs — a dark grey 2024 Ferrari Purosangue and a white 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan — to a third-party transportation company. The vehicles were reportedly being taken off the island to be wrapped, but several hours later, the owner was informed they never arrived. Authorities believe the pair was stolen while in transit, prompting an investigation that eventually narrowed in on the Ferrari via its tracking data. It’s no small loss either. Even lightly used, 2023 Ferrari Purosangue models can command around $580,000, making the 2024 model year even more valuable – unless it's crashed, of course. Add the Cullinan to the mix, and the theft represented about $1 million worth of luxury metal. Short Chase Ends Violently in Miami Just after midnight, City of Miami officers located the Purosangue near Southwest Second Avenue and 17th Street. Police say they watched a suspect enter the Ferrari and drive off, and when officers attempted a traffic stop, the driver fled. The escape was short-lived. Video from the scene suggests the Ferrari may have already sustained front-end damage, with the tyres screeching and the car appearing unsettled as it turned onto Southwest Second Avenue. Moments later, the Purosangue clipped a police cruiser with its rear before accelerating briefly and then losing control entirely, slamming into a power pole with enough force to snap it in half. The impact damaged a transformer, knocking out electricity to nearby buildings and leaving roughly a dozen customers without power while utility crews carried out repairs. For context, the Purosangue is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 producing 715 hp, meaning even the most skillful driver would have spun out regardless. Apprehended NBC6 According to Local10, police identified the driver as 28-year-old DeShawn Prendergast of New York. He reportedly fled the wrecked Ferrari on foot but later surrendered. After being treated at the hospital for minor injuries, he was booked on charges including grand theft and fleeing and eluding police. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported. The damaged Purosangue was recovered at the crash site, while the stolen Rolls-Royce Cullinan was later found unscaved in Miami-Dade County. Between this incident and the recent airplane-versus-Toyota Camry crash, December is shaping up to be an unusually crash-filled holiday season. Stay safe on the roads, and remember that even six-figure SUVs with cutting-edge tech aren’t immune to old-fashioned theft, poor decisions, and human error. View the full article

Each year in the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series, new drivers join the series and experienced drivers step up to new classes. This year, though, an uncommonly large – and talented – group of rookie drivers made things interesting in the PDRA’s six heads-up categories. This is a roundup of the most notable rookies that made an impact throughout the 2025 season. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in the PDRA Section of DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Amber Denton – Pro Nitrous Amber Denton made the jump up to Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous after securing her second Pro 632 presented by PTC Torque Converters world championship last season. The daughter of three-time Pro Nitrous world champion Tommy Franklin, Denton reached the final round in just her second Pro Nitrous appearance and followed that with an unforgettable first career win at the Northern Nationals. There, she beat her dad in a side-by-side, all-motor final round behind the wheel of her Musi-powered “OG Jungle Rat” ’69 Camaro. Denton even led the points for much of the season, but early exits at the end of the year set her back to third in the final standings. Tim Molnar – Pro Nitrous Numerous seasons driving a big-inch nitrous car in MagnaFuel Elite Top Sportsman presented by PAR Racing Engines prepared 2021 world champion Tim Molnar for his 2025 move up to Pro Nitrous. He threw out the dial-in board and started the season in a Rickie Smith-tuned ’23 Camaro, which he drove to quarterfinal finishes at the first two races. After debuting a new-to-him, Albert-powered GEM Attachments ’69 Camaro later in the season, Molnar added a runner-up finish at the Thunder Valley Throwdown, which was completed at GALOT. Molnar finished the season ranked No. 6 in the championship points standings. Tim Paap – Pro Nitrous Like Molnar, Paap made the jump to Pro Nitrous from Elite Top Sportsman, where he was the championship runner-up in 2024. With a star-studded team led by multi-time NHRA Top Sportsman world champion Jeffrey Barker and two-time Elite Top Sportsman world champion Donny “Hollywood” Urban, Paap made a statement in his Pro Nitrous debut as he swept the East Coast Nationals at GALOT. He qualified No. 1 and won in his Musi-powered Paap Auto Body ’16 Corvette. He then sat out the next race to attend his son’s wedding, but rather than leave his car at home, he sent it to the Mid-Atlantic Showdown to race with past Pro Nitrous star turned two-time NHRA Pro Mod world champion Stevie “Fast” Jackson as the fill-in driver. Paap later added another No. 1 qualifier award and a semifinal finish at the Northern Nationals before finishing the year ranked eighth. John Doc – Pro Boost After making waves in a variety of classes and formats throughout the Southeast, self-proclaimed “drag vlogger” John Doc made a big step into the Pro Modified ranks, specifically WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting and Ty-Drive. Teamed up with four-time PDRA world champion Jason Harris, Doc made his debut at the season-opening East Coast Nationals at GALOT Motorsports Park in a ProCharged Southern Diamond Company ’67 Mustang. He missed out on the cutthroat 16-car field, as 28 cars attempted to qualify, but he bounced back with semifinal finishes in his next two appearances. Later in the season, he swapped the Mustang for a ’69 Camaro, which finished the season equipped with a new Harts Charger. Doc finished the season in the No. 8 spot. Jay Cox – Pro Boost It seems wrong to include Pro Nitrous veteran Jay Cox on a list of rookies, but he made a big switch since his last appearance in the series as a driver. Cox, who won the 2023 Brian Olson Memorial World Finals before stepping away from driving on a full-time basis, converted his fan-favorite Butner Construction “Pumpkin” ’69 Camaro from its traditional big-inch nitrous powerplant to a twin-turbocharged Pro Line engine to compete on a limited basis in big-money Pro Mod races and Pro Boost. He made his Pro Boost debut at the season opener at his home track, GALOT Motorsports Park, and while his five-race campaign only saw first-round exits and a couple DNQs, he certainly turned heads with some wild wheelstands. Frank Falter IV – Pro Boost Young gun Frank Falter IV spent the last couple seasons getting up to speed in one of the quickest cars in Laris Motorsports Insurance Elite Top Dragster presented by Greenbrier Excavating & Paving, the supercharged “Candy Man” entry. Falter decided he wanted to go quicker and he wanted to do it between doors, so he moved into Pro Boost midway through the season. While he didn’t qualify in his debut at his home race, the North vs. South Shootout at Maryland International Raceway, Falter made it to the first round at the final three races of the season in his screw-blown “Candy Man” ’69 Camaro. Fletcher Cox – Pro Street Retiring from a Hall of Fame career with the Philadelphia Eagles last season freed up Fletcher Cox to pursue a lifelong goal of going drag racing on a high level. After several seasons as a car owner in multiple classes, he got behind the wheel of his nitrous-fed “Training Day” ’69 Camaro and made his Pro Street debut at the second race of the season. With Phil Shuler tuning, Cox reached the semifinals. He then picked up his first of three No. 1 qualifier awards at the Maryland race before earning his first career win at the Thunder Valley Throwdown. Cox ended up third in the final points standings with a win and three semifinal finishes. He also made the quickest run in class history, a 3.829, in Northern Nationals qualifying. Editor’s Note: Cox was named the Pro Rookie of the Year at the PDRA Championship Awards Banquet in Indianapolis on Dec. 12. Mikey Sasina – Pro Street Colorado-based sportsman racer Mikey Sasina found a new home in the PDRA’s Pro Street division, where he brought out a Stevie Jackson and Killin’ Time Racing-prepared, ProCharged ’03 Mustang. He didn’t qualify at the season opener and lost in the opening round at the next two, but he picked up round wins at two of the last three races of the season, ending up just outside the top 10 in points. Carson Hoyle – Pro 632 Carson Hoyle became the latest PDRA Jr. Dragster program graduate to excel immediately upon moving into a “big car” class, as he made his Pro 632 debut at the second race of the season. His stepdad, Pro Nitrous standout Chris Rini, shook down his Musi-powered ATI Performance ’69 Camaro at the season opener before handing over the proverbial keys to Hoyle. The young gun reached the quarterfinals in his first three appearances and went to the semis at the next two before closing out the year with his first career win at the World Finals to finish third in points. Throughout the season, he cut multiple double-oh reaction times and a perfect light. Carson Perry – Super Street North Carolina’s Carson Perry has been around the PDRA since the beginning of the series, but this was his first full season as a driver in Super Street presented by Brian’s Heating & Cooling. Representing Greenbrier Excavating & Paving in a Barry Allen small-block AMC-powered ’00 Camaro, Perry joined a strong group of young guns: eventual world champion Connor McGee, Austin Vincent, and Matt Schalow. He reached the final round at the Mid-Atlantic Showdown, made it the semis at Maryland, then dominated the World Finals weekend, winning the Summit PDRA ProStars, qualifying No. 1, and winning the event. Perry ended up third in the points standings. This story was originally published on December 17, 2025. The post Rookie Drivers Mix It Up in PDRA’s Pro Ranks first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Hardware Fixes and ImmobilizersHyundai and Kia have agreed to retrofit more than 7 million vehicles in the United States to address widespread theft vulnerabilities, closing a multistate investigation led by a bipartisan coalition of 35 attorneys general, Reuters reports. Under the agreement, both automakers will provide free zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors for eligible vehicles and commit to equipping all future U.S. models with engine immobilizers, a long-standard anti-theft feature missing from many Hyundai and Kia vehicles built between 2011 and 2022. The settlement also includes up to $9 million in restitution to consumers and states to help cover investigation costs. Owners of eligible vehicles will begin receiving notices in early 2026 and will have until March 2027 to complete the retrofit at authorized dealerships. The deal formally resolves regulatory scrutiny that intensified as thefts surged nationwide and Hyundai and Kia vehicles became frequent targets. Four of America’s Most Stolen Vehicles in 2025 Come From the Two BrandsThe agreement comes as theft data continues to paint an unflattering picture for the two brands. In 2025, four of the 10 most stolen vehicles in the U.S. are either Hyundai or Kia models, underscoring how deeply the issue has penetrated the market. Models such as the Hyundai Elantra and Sonata, along with the Kia Optima and Soul, regularly appear near the top of national theft charts. Unlike traditional auto theft trends, which favor high-value trucks or luxury vehicles, this wave has disproportionately affected mass-market sedans and crossovers. That shift expanded the problem beyond isolated regions, driving up insurance premiums, straining law enforcement resources, and leaving millions of owners exposed to repeated break-ins. Drew Phillips Viral Theft Videos Triggered a Nationwide SpikeThe theft problem accelerated sharply after videos circulated on TikTok and other social platforms showing how certain Hyundai and Kia vehicles without immobilizers could be stolen in minutes. The clips spread rapidly, turning a technical weakness into a widely copied theft method and fueling what became known as the “Kia Challenge.” Regulators previously linked the trend to multiple crashes and fatalities, pushing the issue from a consumer inconvenience into a public safety concern. As thefts mounted, state officials argued that software updates alone were insufficient, increasing pressure on the automakers to pursue a hardware-based solution. Hardware Fixes and Consumer DeadlinesThe settlement requires Hyundai and Kia to install zinc-reinforced sleeves around ignition cylinders, designed to prevent the physical manipulation used in viral thefts. The fix applies even to vehicles that previously only qualified for software updates, significantly expanding the scope of the remedy. Minnesota officials estimate the total cost of installing the hardware could exceed $500 million, making it one of the largest theft-related corrective actions undertaken by automakers in the U.S. Owners must complete the installation within the specified window to receive coverage. Immobilizers Become Non-NegotiableBeyond the immediate retrofit, the agreement cements a major structural shift: all future Hyundai and Kia vehicles sold in the U.S. will now include engine immobilizers as standard equipment. Just three years ago, Hyundai drew backlash after offering to add immobilizers only for a substantial fee. This movefurther angered owners already dealing with rising thefts and insurance costs. This time, the fix applies broadly to affected vehicles at no charge, bringing both brands in line with industry norms and finally closing the loophole that left earlier models easy targets. For Hyundai and Kia, the settlement marks a turning point after years of recalls, lawsuits, and reputational fallout. With their vehicles still overrepresented in theft statistics, regulators, insurers, and consumers alike will closely watch the effectiveness of this fix. View the full article

Return of a Halo CarToyota is preparing to stage the public debut of the GR GT and GR GT3 at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 in Japan next month. The showcase will mark the imminent return of a true flagship sports car from the Japanese automaker, filling a void left since the Lexus LFA, which debuted in 2010. The Toyota GR GT is engineered for road use and will be powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid powertrain, paired with an all-aluminum chassis designed to deliver weight savings. Both the engine and the frame will be displayed in cut-away form at its booth, giving attendees a rare look at the car’s core mechanical elements. According to the brand, the hybridized V8 is targeted to produce 641 horsepower, a figure that mirrors the output of the Porsche 911 Turbo S before the introduction of the T-Hybrid system in the 992.2 generation. Toyota Built With Racing DNAThe GR GT3, meanwhile, is aimed squarely at GT3-spec competition, positioning it for potential entry into racing series such as the FIA World Endurance Championship and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in the U.S. If approved for competition, the track-focused model could share the grid with established GT3 machinery including the McLaren 720S GT3 Evo and Ferrari 296 GT3, while further strengthening Toyota’s motorsports presence alongside its championship-winning GR010 Hybrid hypercar. Both the GR GT and GR GT3 are scheduled to perform their first public demonstration runs during Tokyo Auto Salon 2026. Toyota’s press release also teased the presence of “other vehicles” and concepts, including the under-development GR Yaris MORIZO RR and GR Yaris Sébastien Ogier 9x World Champion Edition. Its compact car subsidiary, Daihatsu, will also join the booth. Some GR-branded road-going models may be on display, such as the GR Yaris, a smaller hot hatch that contrasts with the U.S.-market GR Corolla, as well as the GR Supra, which is slated to end production in March 2026 after a seven-year run. Toyota A GR Statement in TokyoBeyond four-wheelers, the booth will feature a selection of car parts, including a 4A-GE cylinder head and block – famously used in the AE86, or Corolla Sport in the U.S. – as part of the brand's GR Heritage Parts Project. Merchandise will also be available, highlighted by 1:43-scale models of the brand’s flagship icons, such as the 2000GT, Lexus LFA, and the upcoming GR GT. Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 is scheduled to run from January 9 to 11, 2026. Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda, who personally helped develop vehicles like the Lexus LFA, is expected to attend and participate in talk sessions alongside other Toyota Gazoo Racing drivers. Toyota View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

FS Performance and Sam Pack Ford teamed up with Funny Car driver Buddy Hull to create a limited-edition Ford Mustang “Buddy Hull” specialty car, inspired by the same grit, attitude, and adrenaline that drive his Nitro Funny Car program. Hull also has a full-size Funny Car on display at the North Dallas dealership. “This was an amazing opportunity to partner with Sam Pack Ford to design a killer Mustang,” said Hull. “I was able to sit in and give them ideas on the performance levels of the Mustang as well as styling suggestions to make it very personal to my brand. This is a one-of-a-kind Mustang and I can’t wait to hand it over to a lucky customer.” FS Performance brought Hull’s vision to life with a fully dialed-in build featuring a Roush Stage 2 kit, pushing the car to roughly 800 horsepower. Every part of this car has been touched with intention, from motorsport-styling cues to performance upgrades worthy of the Buddy Hull name. 2025 Mustang GT Premium – 5.0L Coyote Key Highlights • 5-Year / Unlimited Mile Warranty • 305 Toyo R888R Tires • Project 6GR Custom Wheels • Corsa Xtreme Full Exhaust Kit • Roush Adjustable Handling Suspension – Full Kit • Whipple Supercharger – Stage 2 (875 HP) • Full Carbon Fiber Kit (Interior & Exterior) • RTR Front Molded Lip Splitter • FS Performance × Buddy Hull Wrap • Buddy Hull Stitched Interior • Custom Satin Black Wrap Fans and potential buyers can come into the dealership and see both high-performance vehicles. The purchase of the Buddy Hull edition Mustang will include the opportunity for the buyer to sit in the driver’s seat of Hull’s 12,000 horsepower Funny Car. Hull will also autograph the Mustang for the buyer. “The person who gets the Buddy Hull Mustang will also get a once in a lifetime experience of sitting in my Nitro Funny Car,” said Hull. “Someone will get the most high horsepower experience and drive away in a killer Mustang.” This will not be a one-time offering. Sam Pack Ford and Buddy Hull plan on releasing Buddy Hull editions of Ford F150 and Broncos with Superchargers. The goal is to deliver high-performance vehicles with custom features. More information on those offerings will roll out in the coming months. This story was originally published on December 17, 2025. The post Sam Pack Ford Releases Buddy Hull Edition Mustang first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

In the most unlikely of mash-ups, Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks (a division of the Daimler giant) has revealed the most luxurious Unimog ever. If you don't know much about the Unimog, here's a quick recap. The name encompasses various multi-purpose all-wheel-drive vehicles, but the idea was conceived in 1944 when Germany was under occupation, and Unimogs have been produced since 1948. With its highly resilient power take-offs, as seen in tractors, for example, and its portal axles, the Unimog is practically unstoppable off-road. And yes, Unimogs have been used as tractors, as well as light trucks, snowplows, and more, but they're perhaps best known as military vehicles. The first Unimog with the Three-pointed Star arrived in 1953, and little has changed since then. Until now - the latest Unimog is by far the fanciest to date, and if it reaches production, only Maybach buyers will be able to afford it. This Unimog is Not for Sale (Yet) Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The one-off Unimog is a show car built in anticipation of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks' 80th anniversary next year. Built in collaboration with upfitter Hellgeth Engineering, this creation is based on the Unimog U 4023 (as 2022's Unimog expedition vehicle was) and boasts a flexible frame, portal axles, selectable AWD, and longitudinal and differential locks on both axles. The most luxurious Unimog is also the most powerful off-road Unimog yet, with the standard four-cylinder engine being replaced by Mercedes-Benz's incredibly reliable six-cylinder OM 936 turbodiesel engine, a 7.7-liter behemoth producing, in this case, 295 horsepower. Mercedes didn't reveal the torque figure, but the engine is capable of as much as 1,069 lb-ft. While described as a show vehicle, Mercedes says that "to gain valuable insights for a possible future development stage, the vehicle will be tested by a customer in real-world conditions next year." So if you have an affinity for brutish beasts that feel like five-star hotel rooms, stay tuned. Sensible Upgrades for the Luxury Unimog Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks Outside, the matte grey bodywork boasts a MirrorCam system with digital cameras and monitors instead of traditional wing mirrors, which is probably for the best given how big this thing is. Aluminum beadlock wheels and modern LED headlights and taillights give the truck a more contemporary look without negating the off-road presence, while front bumper add-ons make the vehicle more intimidating. Side steps aid entry, and in the cabin, it's all about comfort, with premium leather surfacing (including the roof and floor mats), more ergonomic seating with colored stitching, and ambient LED lighting. A regular Unimog U 4023, if any Unimog can be called that, starts at around $225,000 for a very basic single-cab setup, so this four-seater with its luxury appointments will certainly cost buyers much, much more than if it ever makes production. Should it? Let us know in the comments section below. Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A New Engine On The Block?A report from GM Authority teases what the rumored next-generation small-block V8 engine could sound like. This power unit – reportedly set to carry the LS6 engine designation – is expected to power the rumored Chevrolet Corvette C8 Grand Sport for the 2027 model year. The report cites a YouTube video by Rick Conti, a well-known Corvette enthusiast with around 57,000 followers. Conti claims the sound clip was recorded inside the car, audible starting around the 3:45 mark in the video embedded below. Fuel for the Grand Sport TalkWhile the recording itself is described as “unofficial,” it appears to align with ongoing rumors that General Motors is working on an all-new small-block V8. If accurate, this would represent the sixth-generation iteration of GM’s small-block architecture. What does this mean for the rumored Corvette C8 Grand Sport? For the uninitiated, the LS6 nameplate has historically been used for high-performance engine variants, suggesting that the Grand Sport trim would slot above the entry-level Corvette Stingray in the lineup. Reports suggest that the LS6 could be offered in two displacement options: 5.7-liter and 6.6-liter configurations. Currently, the Corvette Stingray—powered by a 6.2-liter naturally aspirated LT2 V8—produces around 495 horsepower. As such, the next-generation LS6 in the Grand Sport is expected to deliver a higher output, though it is unlikely to spoil the track-focused Corvette Z06, which produces 670 hp from its 5.5-liter LT6 V8. Between the Stingray and the Z06 sits the Corvette E-Ray, which could remain positioned above the Grand Sport in the model hierarchy. However, the trims are not directly comparable in performance. The E-Ray features a 655-hp hybrid powertrain paired with an all-wheel-drive system, in contrast to the traditional rear-wheel-drive layout used by most other Corvette variants. Chevrolet Positioning a Mid-Spec Corvette C8Beyond the LS6 engine, the Corvette C8 Grand Sport is also expected to adopt a wide-body exterior, as seen in the Grand Sport treatments on the previous C6 and C7 Corvette generations. Conti has argued that the rumored mid-spec trim could ultimately become the volume seller of the sports car lineup, provided pricing is positioned correctly. For reference, the Corvette Stingray starts at around $70,000, while the Corvette Z06 carries a base price of $120,300. Chevrolet also offers even more extreme Corvette variants in the form of the ZR1 and ZR1X, both of which deliver at least 1,000 hp. However, those low-production halo models are clearly positioned outside the high-volume sales segment. Chevrolet View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Surprise Safety LeadersWith advances in automotive safety, no one brand can truly claim to build the absolute safest cars on the road. Case in point, Hyundai has raked in more IIHS Top Safety Pick+ awards than any other automaker this year, and we're not even including Kia and Genesis, which are also under the Hyundai Motor Group (HMG). Does it mean Hyundais are safer than Volvos these days? Not necessarily, but it goes to show that safety shouldn't be selective of brand, as proven by HMG's products. More recently, two of the company's cars aced one of the toughest tests performed by the IIHS to date. Another Hyundai Gets Top MarksHyundai is on a roll with its safety record. The redesigned Palisade just received an overall good rating from the agency. Its performance was good enough to merit a Top Safety Pick award, adding yet another IIHS trophy to Hyundai's cabinet. But, hold on, isn't there a Top Safety Pick + award? Well, yes, but the Palisade just missed out on that. That doesn't make it an unsafe vehicle at all, but there are some points for improvement, should Hyundai want to make its flagship SUV even safer. Hyundai Almost TherePoints were knocked down in the moderate overlap crash test with a rating of acceptable, while rear dummy kinematics were rated marginal. But for the rest of the tests, such as small overlap and side impact, the Palisade was rated good across the board. Overall injury measures were low for both front and rear passengers. The IIHS even had praises for the Palisade's advanced driver assists. In all the situations that the agency threw at it, the SUV avoided the collision. More impressively, its driver assists still worked well in low-light and dark situations. That proved a challenge for some cars before, but the Palisade performed without a hitch. Overall, a very safe vehicle, and one that people should consider when choosing a midsize crossover. Cars like the Palisade are often aimed at families, and delivering precious cargo in absolute safety is a must. We're pretty sure Hyundai is already working out a way to get that Top Safety Pick + award in the next round of testing. Getting that will be another feather in the cap for Hyundai, but the real winners here will be the consumer. Hyundai IIHS Doesn't Mess AroundThe IIHS isn't a government agency, but it has become instrumental in making safer cars over the decades. They made offset frontal crash tests the norm and introduced tougher tests, such as the small overlap impact and passenger-side frontal crash tests. The agency has caught out several automakers through the years, but it was all for the improvement of occupant safety. In recent years, the IIHS has been putting advanced driver-assist systems through their paces. It's not enough that cars have them these days; they actually have to work promptly and properly. It's all the more reason its findings are worth their weight in gold for both consumers and carmakers. Cole Attisha View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Rare Seal of ApprovalNissan has certified Litchfield Motors as an official Authorized Service and High-Performance Centre for the R35 GT-R, marking the first time an independent specialist in Europe has been brought into the Japanese automaker’s official network. The move signals Nissan’s confidence in Litchfield’s technical capabilities with the GT-R, effectively entrusting the specialist with servicing the GT-R owners across the region. Also known for its work on other brands such as Audi, Ferrari, and Porsche, Litchfield will now provide official Nissan servicing using factory-approved procedures, diagnostic equipment, and genuine parts. Litchfield Preparing for the Post-R35 EraAccording to Litchfield, the appointment follows a period of significant investment at its Tewkesbury, United Kingdom facility. These upgrades include new workshop buildings, additional specialist equipment, and an expanded technical team – developments that should be welcome news for GT-R owners. Of note, Nissan has now discontinued the R35 GT-R after an 18-year production run. In this context, the partnership represents a win on multiple fronts. Nissan can shift its focus toward future performance projects – such as a potential GT-R successor previewed by the Hyper Force Concept – while ensuring that existing GT-R owners continue to receive factory-aligned support. For Litchfield, the appointment adds further credibility to the work it has been doing behind the scenes for years. Owners, meanwhile, benefit from access to a specialist with deep, hands-on experience across a wide range of high-performance vehicles, like the 920-horsepower, Porsche 911-based RML GT Hypercar. The R35 GT-R is powered by a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V6, which has undergone numerous revisions and refinements over its lifespan. In its range-topping Nismo specification, the U.S.-spec model produces around 600 hp, paired with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission that sends power to all four wheels. Litchfield Combining Maintenance and Aftermarket SupportBeyond routine servicing, Litchfield will continue to offer aftermarket performance upgrades for the GT-R. The certification makes it easier for owners to access factory-aligned maintenance and performance support. “This is a milestone for our business and something we are proud to share with our customers,” said managing director Iain Litchfield. “Our goal has always been to give owners the best possible support, and this new status allows us to take that a stage further,” he added. While Nissan leans on Litchfield to help sustain and enrich the R35 GT-R ecosystem in Europe, Nismo has been expanding its own restoration programs for the Skyline GT-R R32, R33, and R34. The performance division recently announced plans to grow its heritage and restoration operations as part of an effort to capture a significant share of a projected 1.2 trillion yen (approximately $7.7 billion) global market for restoration, restomod, and parts sales by 2032. Litchfield View the full article

Youth ATVs made by Luyuan and sold at Walmart, Amazon, and other online retailers could "pose a serious risk of injury or death."View the full article

The CLA That Will Likely Be the Volume SellerBoth EV and hybrid versions of the Mercedes-Benz CLA are now available in Europe, and the electric model is now sitting in showrooms stateside. But back in Europe, the compact sedan is available in a wider variety of trims and model lines, and even comes in incredibly basic forms if the buyer so chooses. That said, the U.S market usually gets the more loaded version of European models, and that’s the case for the hybrid CLA. With that, we can now confirm that the gas-fed model coming to America is the CLA 220. It’s the most powerful version available in Europe, but the U.S will be getting that standard. It’ll also be the one and only powertrain choice for the hybrid CLA for this part of the world. What's it Packing?The CLA 220 uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter Miller Cycle engine with a 48V hybrid system. Technically speaking, it's a mild-hybrid, but it does allow the car to run solely on battery power like a parallel hybrid (like a Prius, Civic Hybrid, etc.). It also helps that it has a relatively large battery, listed at 1.3kWh. The engine alone makes 188 hp and 221 lb-ft, which is then supplemented by a single electric motor that produces 30 hp and 148 lb-ft. Combined, the CLA 220 produces 208 hp and, more importantly, 280 lb-ft of torque. It's then connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission specifically designed for this application. Technical HighlightsThe use of a 48V system allows for compact packaging. It also means the CLA is light for modern hybrid standards. Curb weight is listed at 3,594 lbs, which is still more than the Audi A3 Sedan (3,329 lbs for FWD models) and BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe (3,393 lbs for 228i), but we wouldn't call it porky by any means. And do note that its similarly-sized compatriots aren't offered as hybrids. Another highlight is its EV mode. In situations that require less than 27 hp, the CLA is battery-powered, depending on charge level and throttle application. Mercedes-Benz says its benefit comes into play in city driving conditions. It can also coast without any assistance from the engine, as well as regenerate energy for up to 25 kW, a neat feature for those in hilly areas. Other FeaturesLike the European model, the U.S version has an AI-enhanced MB.OS that's hooked up to the Mercedes‑Benz Intelligent Cloud to allow for over-the-air updates for the infotainment system and more. Google Assistant is also present, and the navigation system is also based on Google Maps. The floating MBUX Superscreen is available for the CLA 220, featuring a 10.25-inch driver display, a 14-inch central display, and a 14-inch front passenger display. Of course, advanced driver assists are standard. Dubbed MB.DRIVE, it includes Digital Extra: Distronic, Blind Spot Assist Plus with Exit Warning, lane-keep assist, and more. Lane change assist and steering assist are options. As for pricing, it's still up in the air, so we'll be keeping a close eye on that. But given that the EV models start at around $47,000, we reckon the CLA 220 will go for less than that. Mercedes-Benz View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Purist Ferrari, Frozen in TimeThe Ferrari 360 is often regarded as a purist’s car, offering an analog driving experience before widespread technological advancements reshaped supercars in the late 2000s. Ferrari also produced a more extreme, track-oriented version called the Challenge Stradale, and one of its 1,288 examples is now up for sale via DK Engineering. This particular example is even rarer than most, as it is one of just 42 cars finished in the factory Blu Tour de France exterior paint. It is also believed to be among only nine units in the same color produced with a right-hand-drive configuration. Perhaps most remarkably, the car is showing just 826 miles on the odometer, an exceptionally low figure for a vehicle that is now more than two decades old. DK Engineering Race-Bred, Road-LegalAccording to the listing, this Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale was originally acquired new through Ferrari Wilmslow in 2004. The original owner reportedly drove the car sparingly before ownership was transferred to his estate following his passing. The 360 Challenge Stradale was built on Ferrari’s early adoption of the F1-style automated manual, while the standard 360 Modena and Spider were also available with a gated six-speed stick shift. It was a significant development at the time, bringing racing-derived technology to road-going supercars. What was once considered cutting-edge hardware has since become widely adopted, with paddle shifters now appearing even in mass-market models such as the Honda Civic. What truly sets the 360 apart, however, is its 3.6-liter V8 engine, which came in naturally aspirated form. This setup enables higher revs, delivering Ferrari’s signature high-pitched, F1-inspired soundtrack. Ferrari retained the naturally aspirated formula for the succeeding F430 and 458 before transitioning to twin-turbocharging with the arrival of the 488 in 2015. In Challenge Stradale specification, the engine was tuned to deliver 425 horsepower—around 25 horsepower more than the standard 360 Modena and Spider trims. The race-focused package also included extensive use of carbon-fiber body panels, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a revised suspension setup optimized for track use. DK Engineering Exclusivity Comes at a CostThis 2004 MY example currently for sale is further equipped with Tan upholstery, Scuderia wing shields, brake calipers finished in Giallo, and the original warranty book, purchase invoice, service documentation, and Ferrari assistance booklet. Given its rarity, condition, and performance-focused enhancements, the car is being offered at £499,995, or approximately $669,000 at today’s exchange rates. That figure is significantly more than a new Ferrari 12Cilindri, although the driving experiences they offer – analog versus digital – could not be more different. DK Engineering View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

More than just a motorcycle cafe and restaurant, the Bike Shed has helped shape modern-day moto culture, and wants to expand all across the globe.View the full article

Toyota’s sporty Scion brand is missed by many enthusiasts. Created in 2003 with the aim to appeal to a more youthful market, the brand brought us fun cars like the FR-S, which was essentially the first-generation Toyota 86. The Scion brand gained recognition again last month when Toyota unveiled the wild Scion 01 off-road concept for SEMA, but it wasn’t clear at the time if this was a one-off or a true resurgence of Scion. Well, we now have some answers. Scion will indeed return with more than just off-road concepts, although it won’t be the Scion we remember. An Innovative Mobility Brand Toyota At a recent media event, Road & Track had the opportunity to chat to Don Federico, the chief engineer behind the Scion 01 off-road concept. “We’re bringing [Scion] back as an opportunity for mobility,” said Federico. He further explained that Toyota is “getting back to the roots of Scion, which was supposed to be this test laboratory. This is that.” Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda said that Toyota is becoming a mobility company, so Federico said that Scion is well-positioned to introduce a range of mobility products that are “not traditional vehicles.” That explains why we got the 01 concept, an all-terrain side-by-side vehicle for recreational purposes. It’s powered by a four-cylinder hybrid engine with over 300 horsepower and even has a Silent Mode for quietly navigating tight trails. Federico said that there would be no return of Scion road cars like a new tC, as such a vehicle would be badged as a Toyota. However, future Scion projects will not be limited to off-roaders, and the company’s concepts may end up going into production. Related: Why Toyota EVs should be under the Scion brand Present-Day Toyota Doesn’t Need Scion Sports Cars Scion When Scion originally launched in the 2000s, Toyota had fewer enthusiast-pleasing models in its lineup. Today, the brand’s range includes the GR Corolla, GR86, and GR Supra. The dramatic GR GT was revealed recently as the company’s upcoming flagship sports car. The GT will set new standards for Toyota Gazoo Racing, as it’s expected to be capable of a supercar-like 0-60 run of below three seconds. Toyota Even the run-of-the-mill RAV4 has a performance variant, a 324-hp GR Sport plug-in hybrid model that’s on the way early next year. Toyota also has its lineup of TRD-badged models, but these have an off-road focus and will be body-on-frame vehicles only. With such a comprehensive lineup of sporty vehicles, these Toyotas would likely clash if Scion returned with a similar lineup to the one it had two or so decades ago. Hence, Toyota’s decision to focus on unorthodox mobility products is a way to revive the innovative spirit of Scion without cannibalizing sales of the GR lineup. View the full article

Guenther Steiner recently said on a podcast that he'd like to get F1 Champion, Lando Norris, on a KTM MotoGP bike for a ride.View the full article

If you want to see some of the most epic hillclimb machines, including tons of Rally and Rallycross cars, plus a bunch more you won’t expect, then check out the video below. This is awesome stuff. We’re talking about the Lillehammer Hillclimb, an event that has grown exponentially, even though it is only in its second year. Read the description below and then watch the video, and let us know what you think. Video Description: Here we go back to Lillehammer HillClimb for the 2nd Year. Held in Norway right besides the famous Ski Jump platform, and a mythic event with great History that has featured some of the greatest Rallycross drivers ever in previous editions, here we have the Top 20 Fastest machines and drivers, with the driving skills on the highest level, as well as the presence of plenty of Rallycross units. Here we have former Group B Monsters, various RWD converted Touring Cars, a number of WRX SuperCars, some of the strangest Engine Swaps, plenty of sideways action and some of the Turbocharged Touring Car Class RallyCross cars coming to HillClimb Racing. And as crown jewel, we have the return of what was probably the most viewed Hillclimb car/driver of last year on our Channel, Johnny Josdal with his mighty Camaro!! (although a different unit now, but the same or even more spectacularity..) This is how they ended up placing after 2 days of Racing uphill: 00:00 – Honda Civic EG6 »»» Johannes Rafoss (w/ ONBOARD) 01:25 – BMW M3 E30 2JZ-GTE »»» Vidar Jodahl 02:27 – Volvo S40 Touring Car »»» Arild Reiakvam 03:50 – BMW E36 Compact »»» Jarle Lippert 05:06 – Chevrolet Camaro LS1 »»» Johnny Josdal (w/ ONBOARD) 07:04 – Skoda Fabia AMG »»» Herbjorn Haug (w/ ONBOARD) 08:34 – Mazda RX-7 SA22C »»» Lasse Aaberg 09:56 – VW Polo S1600 »»» Mats Marthinsen 11:08 – BMW E30 Touring Car »»» Per Jorgensen 12:31 – FORD Escort Mk2 BDA »»» Marius Solberg Hansen 13:54 – FORD Escort Mk5 » »» Mats Lund Heimdahl 15:28 – FORD Focus RX SuperCar »»» Thomas Paulsen 16:52 – Citroen Xsara Kit-Car »»» Lars Berntsen (w/ ONBOARD) 18:15 – BMW 1M Touring Car »»» Petter Paulsen 19:32 – FORD RS200 Evolution »»» Morten Lerdahl (w/ ONBOARD) 21:08 – FORD Escort Cosworth Group A »»» Marius Nylokken 22:10 – BMW E30 Turbo Touring Car »»»» Hans-Joren Ostreng (w/ ONBOARD) 23:41 – Skoda Fabia RS Rally2 »»» Jens Hvaal 25:01 – BMW E30 Touring Car »»» Thomas Bryntesson 26:24 – AUDI A1 Turbo Touring Car »»» Emil Sivesind (w/ ONBOARD) The post CHECK OUT THE TOP 20 HILLCLIMB MONSTERS From The 2025 Lillehammer Hill Climb 2025 appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

BMW’s first Neue Klasse vehicle, the iX3, has gotten off to a strong start. Demand for the electric SUV has been high and its on-paper range and efficiency specifications are excellent. It all bodes well for the new iX1, the iX3’s smaller sibling that will adopt the same design language and technological advancements seen in the iX3. Our spies captured the first images of the iX1 a few months ago, and now we’ve got our first glimpse of its high-tech interior. Related: 5 Coolest Features Of The All-New BMW iX3 Nothing Like The Gas X1 SH Proshots/Autoblog The upcoming iX1 adopts many of the interior changes seen in the iX3, which marks a total departure from the current X1’s more conventional cockpit. There’s a large center touchscreen with the quirky hexagonal shape of the iX3’s one, and BMW’s new Panoramic iDrive system is visible. This setup does away with a traditional gauge cluster in favor of a pillar-to-pillar display below the windscreen. S Below the touchscreen, traditional buttons are largely eliminated. There’s a lower section with buttons for the hazards, gear selector, electronic parking brake, and defogging functions. Ahead of this, we’re likely to find a space for wireless phone charging and the cupholders. The rather attractive floating center console found in the current X1 is gone. The rest of the interior is largely covered up, so we can’t say for sure if the strange four-spoke steering wheel from the iX3 will make it into the iX1. Related: First Look: BMW’s Neue Klasse iX3 Previews the Future Of EVs Downsized iX3 From The Outside 2028 BMW iX1 spy shot SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Based on these and previous spy shots, the iX1 will adopt a very similar look to the iX3. The kidney grills will be vertical but slimmer than on most existing BMW models. The headlights will be integrated into a horizontal strip that runs just below the hood, and the taillights are expected to stretch across almost the entire width of the body. The main changes are beneath the skin, though. Making use of BMW’s new cylindrical batteries and 800-volt architecture, the iX1 will have much faster charging and a longer range than the existing iX1 (not sold in the USA). We wouldn’t be surprised if EPA figures reach 400 miles. The iX3’s batteries can be recharged from 10% to 80% in just 21 minutes at a charge rate of up to 400 kW, so expect similar capabilities for the iX1. Related: BMW Quietly Teases Its Next Electric SUV Will The iX1 Finally Make It To America? B The current BMW iX1 isn’t sold stateside, but we have higher hopes that this new one will arrive here. Considering that the iX3 will start at around $60,000, there’s certainly space at a lower price point for the iX1. Audi’s Q4 e-tron starts at just over $50,000, while Volvo has the EX30 for around $40k. Whether BMW believes a smaller, cheaper EV in America is profitable enough remains to be seen, but the vehicle itself should be a vast improvement over the current iX1. An unveiling of the new iX1 is expected in 2026 with a 2027 launch to follow, with European markets likely to be the first to receive the new EV. View the full article

Think less R1 and more R25, though, which could be great news for small displacement sportbike fans who love the R15 and R25!View the full article

CarPlay can be a real dealbreaker for car buyersIt's fair to say that in today's interconnected digital world, smartphone mirroring capabilities like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren't just subtle luxuries, such as tri-zone climate control, but outright essential features that could make or break a car purchase. In a recent study of over a thousand car owners conducted by American Trucks, approximately 55% of drivers stated that a lack of Apple CarPlay would influence their decision to buy a particular car. In contrast, 36% of Android Auto users shared the same sentiment. In addition, when the same people were asked if they trusted an automaker to build an in-car system as good as Apple or Google, 31% said no, 36% said they were not sure, while 33% said yes. Despite this, one automaker that notably omits these kinds of features from its cars is none other than the adventure EV brand Rivian, the makers of the rugged R1T electric pickup and the R1S SUV. However, according to Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe, the decision to omit CarPlay and Android Auto is not due to any technological shortcomings; it’s actually because, in his opinion, most other cars don’t cut it on the software front. Nissan RJ Scaringe: CarPlay is an excuse to make bad in-car softwareIn a recent interview on Ben Thompson’s Stratechery podcast, the two explored a wide range of topics, including Scaringe’s background, Rivian’s early days, the company’s partnership with Amazon and Walmart. But when he was asked about his company’s controversial decision to skip CarPlay, he called it a “good system,” but pointed out a key thing about its owners. “The only reason people want that is they’ve been trained because they’re in cars that have such bad software that the life raft to escape the horrible software that is embedded in the car is CarPlay, and CarPlay is a really important function for that,” he said. “If I’m in a non-Rivian or non-Tesla and I get in, it’s like a disaster, and I’m like, 'Oh thank goodness there’s CarPlay.' It has some thoughtful UI, but we have a really thoughtful UI, and the few things that are missing we’ve been adding.” The Rivian CEO actually explained his shade at the competition, as it is based on actual technical stuff that can consequently impact one’s driving experience. Scaringe argues that building a truly seamless driving experience means controlling everything on the screen yourself, and that when you hand over your dashboard to Apple a la CarPlay, you’re essentially letting another company run part of your car, which can create conflict between you, your car, and the software running on the infotainment screen. Jason Henry/Bloomberg via Getty Images Scaringe says that he and Rivian are “very convicted” that keeping their own software is essential in maintaining an in-car experience “where you can talk to the car and ask for things,” and also know up-to-the-minute info on “the state of health of the vehicle, the state of charge, distance,” and “outside temperature,” which can be disturbed if an application like CarPlay is integrated into Rivian’s on-screen infotainment software. The real issue, according to Scaringe, is the future of these tech-forward machines, where he believes we’ll soon be talking to our cars like personal assistants. In his line of thought, if you ask your Rivian about your schedule for the day, you shouldn’t have to care whether it’s pulling from Google Calendar or Apple’s system behind the scenes. You just want the answer, instantly. “[...] you just want the information, that interface becomes really important, it becomes so fundamental to the user experience and the whole user journey,” Scaringe said. “So as we’ve thought about this, inserting any sort of abstraction layer or aggregation layer that’s not our own just is extremely risky, and you start to build dependencies on that that are hard to reverse.” This becomes especially messy when you add self-driving features into the mix, of which Rivian has dipped its toes into as of late. CarPlay typically takes over your entire screen, which can hinder the car’s ability to show you essential information about driving conditions. Scaringe suggested that it could use split screens to display different information. Still, in an effort to point to Apple as a guiding example, he noted that such an experience could be overwhelming for drivers. “It’s like you have two different UIs playing out, and I just think it’s poor UI, it’s a poor user experience,” he said. R The no-CarPlay effectRivian has been working to provide people with an experience that would make them forget about CarPlay. In its R1S and R1T, Google Maps is a built-in navigation option, while support for major music streaming services, including Apple Music, Spotify, and Tidal, is also included. Scaringe and the company believe their well-designed user interfaces eliminate the need for CarPlay; so much so that Scaringe says the people actually complaining about missing CarPlay are mostly those who haven’t bought a Rivian yet. “[...] people that are in Teslas and Rivians that are actually driving it, the number of people that actually complain about it is very, very low,” he said, pointing out that Tesla drivers report the same experience. “The number of people that say they’re not buying Rivian because of CarPlay is a higher number, but once you get into it, you’re like, 'Oh, what was I worried about? This is really good!', and I think the same trend exists for Tesla.” Final thoughtsNotably, Rivian is not the only company with this same philosophy. Recently, General Motors announced that Apple Music would be available in select Chevrolet and Cadillac models, and that audio streaming would be standard through OnStar Basics, its eight-year no-cost connectivity package, for all 2025 and newer vehicles in both the U.S. and Canada. This philosophy aligns with Rivian's approach to building cars in general. The company is spending billions developing its technology, and part of that bet is keeping complete control over the driver experience. They see their vehicles as user-friendly computers on wheels, where having a unified, well-designed screen experience isn’t optional; it’s essential. View the full article

It’s time for NHRA’s fastest passes of 2025 and that means several record breaking runs! 2025 was full of falling records, and we love it. If you aren’t an NHRA Mission Drag Racing fan, you should be. There is a lot of drag racing going on all over the country and 2026 promises to be even bigger and better than 2025 already has been. Let’s take a look at NHRA’s fastest passes of 2025 and then compare them next year to see just how hard racers are pushing the envelope. The post The 10 Fastest Drag Racing Runs of 2025! Check Out NHRA’s Biggest And Baddest, Making Record Runs At The Track In 2025. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article