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If you want to spend as much as possible on a new Porsche 911, you can grab a Turbo S Cabriolet for $284,300. But Porsche has just unveiled a new truly special 911 collector car that costs over $100,000 more than that—$387,000, to be exact. This is the 2027 911 GT3 90 F.A. Porsche, and the name tells you all about why it’s so special. This car pays tribute to Ferdinand Alexander Porsche (also known as F.A.), the grandson of Porsche AG Founder, Ferdinand Porsche. The younger Ferdinand passed away in 2012 but would have celebrated his 90th birthday on December 11, 2026. His significance within Porsche’s history is reflected in this collector car, a truly exquisite version of the 911. Related: 2025 Porsche 911 GT3 — A deep dive into the latest generation Modern Powertrain Meets Nostalgic Touches Porsche View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Only 90 examples of the 2027 911 GT3 90 F.A. Porsche will be built, and each customer will benefit from a one-on-one personalization program for each order. Such programs only become available once you spend close to $400k on a sports car. As the name suggests, this collector car is based on the 911 GT3, specifically the version with the Touring Package. That means you get Porsche’s magnificent 4.0-liter boxer-six naturally aspirated engine with 502 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. The GT3 Touring comes with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, and it has a more subtle adaptive rear spoiler in place of the normal GT3’s aggressive rear wing. Porsche The exterior and interior were inspired by the G-body 911 driven by F.A. in the 1980s. F.A. Green metallic is the exclusive color created for this GT3, which references the Oak Green metallic used on F.A.’s very own 911. Sport Classic wheels in Satin Black are a nostalgic touch, and there are center lock hubs with a 1963 Porsche crest design. A gold plaque on the rear decklid grille has a “90 F.A. Porsche” logo. Related: 50 Years of Porsche Turbo, from 911 and 944 to Cayenne and Panamera Exquisite Interior Details Porsche View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article In the cabin, there are more details inspired by the personal taste of F.A. Porsche. Complementing the Truffle Brown Club Leather are Limestone stitching and seat centers in a grid-weave fabric; this fabric was inspired by the legend’s favorite sport coat. “My father’s favorite sport coat carried this pattern. Like his pencil, his pipe and his ashtray, this coat is part of my childhood memories and directly linked with his home office,” Mark Porsche said. Atop the instrument cluster, there’s a Sport Chrono clock inspired by the original Chronograph 1. The shift lever has an open-pore wood handle, there’s a plaque engraved with F.A. Porsche’s signature, and there’s a special dashboard trim piece with its own gold plaque. Every buyer of this Porsche will receive an exclusive version of the Porsche Design Chronograph 1. The housing is made of titanium, and the chronograph includes a number of special details, like F.A. Porsche’s signature being laser-engraved under the housing. Celebrating F.A.’s Contribution to Porsche Porsche Being born into the illustrious Porsche family is no guarantee that one will go on to contribute to the brand’s legacy, but F.A. made sure he'd be remembered. Born on December 11, 1935, F.A. Porsche developed a passion for design from a young age. He interned in the modeling department at Porsche in 1957, before this department was separated from the bodywork construction division. With F.A. at the helm, models like the 904 Carrera GTS, 804 Formula One race car, and 901/991 were created. He also founded Porsche Design in 1972 with his brother. His design studio’s many highlights include the Chronograph 1 wristwatch and the P’8478 sunglasses with changeable lenses. “I am sure that my father would have loved this very special 911,” Mark Porsche said. “Many details of this exciting project were influenced by his personal taste. Production of the 2027 911 GT3 90 F.A. Porsche will start in mid-2026, with one of the 90 examples to be built globally intended for his son, Mark. Once a few options are added, this will easily be a $400,000+ 911—and one of the most expensive cars you can buy. View the full article

One of drag racing’s most entertaining personalities is about to step into one of the most proven pieces in Limited Drag Radial. Tom “Jimmy Dale” Gunner has been announced as the new driver of Rob Kohler’s familiar screw-blown fourth-generation Camaro, with his competition debut set for the fast-approaching U.S. Street Nationals presented by M&M Transmission – the second stop of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service. Gunner’s arrival in LDR comes with real momentum. A successful small-tire standout, he’s fresh off winning the inaugural Lil’ Gangstas Shootout at the 2025 Drag Illustrated World Series of Pro Mod, and his brand has exploded thanks to a potent mix of on-track performance and an unapologetically authentic presence online and at the track. Now he’ll strap into a car capable of immediately running at the front of the pack – the same machine formerly piloted by Lyle Barnett, which has been as quick as the low 3.90s in the eighth-mile. “I’ve been lucky enough to wheel some killer race cars over the years, and now it’s badass watching my buddy Jimmy Dale get his shot in a top-tier LDR hot rod,” said Barnett. “The dude loves this sport, reps it harder than most, and uses his platform to push drag racing forward. Seeing him step up to the big stage just feels right.” Team owner Rob Kohler echoed that confidence. “I met Jimmy Dale and [Michael] Poland a couple seasons ago and every time I turn around those guys are in the winner’s circle. How do you not give those guys an opportunity to win in a competitive car, and that’s exactly what we are going to do in 2026,” Kohler said. For longtime partner Michael Poland, the move is both a milestone and a validation. “I’m so proud of my brother and how far we have come. His personality and craziness – you would think he would be the same in a race car, but it’s the complete opposite. I’ve been around a lot of drivers in my short time in the industry and he’s the most cool, calm, and collected out of all of them. The dude was born to drive a race car. I’m glad to be a part of this and what we have built together. I’m excited to roll into this next journey with Jimmy Dale Racing and Rob Kohler Racing.” For Jimmy Dale himself, the opportunity is something he’s still trying to process. “To have a team like Rob Kohler Racing believe in me and a mentor like Lyle Barnett is a pinch-me moment,” Gunner said. “Just three years ago Poland and I were racing in an abandoned parking lot in Mineral Wells, Texas, and now this is going to catapult Jimmy Dale Racing into the highest levels of drag racing. We are freaking pumped.” Gunner will begin testing immediately and hit the track in competition when LDR fires up at the U.S. Street Nationals in Bradenton. This story was originally published on December 11, 2025. The post Tom “Jimmy Dale” Gunner Set to Join Rob Kohler Racing for Limited Drag Radial Campaign first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

South Georgia Motorsports Park has tabbed respected racer, veteran, and industry figure Don O’Neal as its new General Manager, tasking him with leading the facility into a new era ahead of a packed 2026 schedule that includes the return of the NHRA Southern Nationals. O’Neal, a U.S. Army veteran with extensive experience across motorsports, business, and event operations, will oversee all day-to-day activity at the Valdosta-area facility. His role includes racer and fan experience, partner development, community engagement, and the continued evolution of SGMP into a true multi-use destination while keeping drag racing at its core. “SGMP is a special place for racers and fans,” O’Neal said. “Our goal is simple: run efficient shows, improve the racer and fan experience, and build strong community and sponsor partnerships.” Track owner Raul Torres says O’Neal’s blend of on-track experience and operational leadership made him the clear choice to guide SGMP’s next phase. “Don combines practical race operations with sponsor and community insight,” Torres said. “We’re investing in facility upgrades and a sustainable schedule, and Don will lead that plan with accountability. This is about boosting tourism, educational opportunities, and economic growth for South Georgia and North Florida.” Under O’Neal’s leadership, SGMP is focusing on several near-term priorities, including: Operational efficiency: on-time shows, improved traffic flow, and a reinforced safety-first culture. Enhanced racer and fan experience: better communication, improved wayfinding and signage, and hospitality upgrades. Multi-purpose programming: adding concerts, festivals, and lifestyle events that complement traditional race weekends. Regional economic impact: deeper alignment with hotels, tourism officials, and workforce programs while tracking local economic output through periodic reporting. Community and partner alignment: strengthening local partnerships and defining measurable ROI for sponsors. The announcement comes as SGMP prepares for one of its most significant seasons yet, highlighted by the NHRA Southern Nationals returning to the facility in May 2026. For more information and event updates, visit GoRaceSGMP.com or follow @GoRaceSGMP on social media. This story was originally published on December 11, 2025. The post Don O’Neal Named General Manager of South Georgia Motorsports Park first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

I’m pleased to say we have positively settled this matter. Representing 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports in its antitrust lawsuit against NASCAR, lead attorney Jeffrey Kessler made the announcement to Judge Kenneth D. Bell at 10:03 a.m. in the Potter Courtroom on the second floor of the Western District of North Carolina. There was still more work to be done to formalize the end of ...Keep readingView the full article

Tesla's Cybertruck is a wicked machine, whether you'd like to admit it or not. That said, even the so-called indestructible pickup has some inherent flaws. One of them is the factory wheel setup, which has become a growing point of criticism as demand for the Cybertruck appears to be cooling down. Now, Unplugged Performance has stepped in with a solution worthy of the truck’s size and aspirations: the UP Forged UP-RW Cyber Road Warrior. Designed to handle the Cybertruck’s weight and real-world punishment, it brings the brand’s Road Warrior philosophy into a more extreme class. Better yet, owners can upgrade without buying new tires and have a lifetime warranty. Forged Strength Meets The Cybertruck Unplugged Performance With its 6,600-pound curb weight and immense torque, the Cybertruck places heavy demands on its wheels. The factory cast wheels simply aren’t ideal for that kind of stress, and Unplugged Performance notes that cast construction can introduce “air pockets, brittleness under extreme loads, and lower resistance to potholes” compared with forged wheels. That alone gives many owners a reason to explore aftermarket options. The Cyber Road Warrior answers this with fully forged 6061-T6 aluminum construction and a 3,195-pound load rating per wheel, up significantly from the stock 2,500 pounds. Unplugged Performance already earned a reputation for its Road Warrior wheels on the Model 3 and Model Y, but the Cybertruck demanded a tougher evolution. It is built for a heavier, harder-working platform, and the design reflects that mission. Real-World Results Without a Range Hit Unplugged Performance Range anxiety often stops EV owners from modifying wheels, but that concern doesn’t apply here. Unplugged Performance tested three identical Cybertrucks on the same High Desert route: one on the Foundation Series setup, one on Tesla’s Core Wheel, and one on the Cyber Road Warrior. The forged wheel matched the efficiency of Tesla’s most aerodynamic factory option and beat the Foundation Series configuration. The company even notes that under certain conditions, range may improve. For shoppers comparing upgrades, especially with wild alternatives like Unplugged Performance’s gold 24-inch Cybertruck wheels, efficiency remains a major reason to choose something more purposeful. Plug-and-Play Practicality Unplugged Performance The Road Warrior line also brings back its signature replaceable outer ring, a sacrificial piece designed to absorb curb rash. Instead of a costly repair, owners simply replace the ring. The brand backs the wheel with a warranty that covers any bent or cracked wheel at no cost, adding peace of mind to an already practical upgrade. Because the wheels were engineered around the factory 20-inch Cybertruck tires, installation is simple and doesn’t require new rubber. Combined with the added strength, range-friendly design, and everyday usability, the UP Forged UP-RW Cyber Road Warrior feels like the setup the Cybertruck should have come with from the beginning. View the full article

A Wagon Revival on the Horizon?Station wagons, once the vehicle of choice for American families, have been largely replaced by SUVs. The NHTSA has previously speculated that increasingly-stricter passenger car fuel efficiency regulations have driven manufacturers to replace station wagons in their lineups with SUVs and crossovers, which are classified as light trucks and subject to more lenient standards. Doubling down on this theory, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, in a recent interview with CNBC, claimed that the proposed rollback of the strict Biden era fuel efficiency standards would incentivise carmakers to offer consumers more entry- and mid-level station wagons, precipitating their widespread return to American streets. Understanding the LogicThe idea of a station wagon revival stems from how the fuel consumption regulations classify vehicles. Station wagons are classified as passenger cars, and passenger cars face more stringent fuel efficiency regulations than vehicles categorised as light trucks. Large, roomy, and heavy station wagons would struggle to meet the tighter passenger car standards and, rather than tackle the pressure to optimize every model for maximum fuel efficiency and face potential compliance penalties, manufacturers started offering SUVs to customers shopping for family-sized vehicles. GM The Trump administration’s proposed plan to relax these regulations and drop the 2031 fleet average fuel consumption requirement from 50.4 mpg to 34.5 mpg once again makes it viable for manufacturers to build large, heavy vehicles in the passenger car segment. But it only makes sense for manufacturers to reintroduce station wagons if the demand still exists. What About SUV Love?The idea that station wagons are set to make a comeback assumes that the massive market shift towards SUVs was driven more by the stringent fuel efficiency standards for passenger cars, and not by changing tastes and preferences. After all, Americans today love their SUVs; the commanding seating position, comfort, practicality, image, perceived safety, and greater cargo space have all contributed to this shift. It seems unlikely that station wagons becoming slightly more available and accessible would once again sway market preferences based solely on nostalgia for the once ubiquitous body type. Subaru The Bottom LineEasing fuel consumption regulations has the potential to lower new car prices and save carmakers billions, as it will reduce the time, effort, and cost directed towards making vehicles more frugal year-on-year. However it will also slow down the development of EV and hybrid technology. Whether or not the revised regulations will drive a station wagon resurgence in a market obsessed with tall and bulky SUVs remains to be seen. View the full article

A Fresh Coat for a ClassicThe Land Rover Defender Octa debuted in 2024 as the new flagship of the Defender lineup, bringing high-performance engineering and exclusive customization options. Now, the British marque is extending those premium finishes by making Octa-inspired colors and trim combinations available to more customers through Land Rover Classic. Land Rover Classic – a division dedicated to restoring heritage Land Rovers – is offering these options for the Defender 90 Station Wagon and Soft Top, as well as the longer-wheelbase 110 Station Wagon. The palette includes Octa-exclusive shades such as Petra Copper, Faroe Green, and Sargasso Blue, plus Narvik Black seen in Defender Octa Black and Patagonia White. These new additions join the existing paint offerings for the Classic Defender V8, including Borasco Gray, Carpathian Gray, and Charente Gray. The company said each example spends around 300 hours in the paint shop, with every color offered in either a gloss or satin finish to mirror the look of the Defender Octa's optional matte protective film. Land Rover More Ways to CustomizeCustomers may also choose interior schemes inspired by the Defender Octa, featuring lightweight Ultrafabrics in Khaki Green, Light Cloud, or Lunar, with Burnt Sienna semi-aniline leather available as an option. The blackout theme from the Defender Octa Black can also be specified, pairing with ebony leather. Additional interior customizations include hand-trimmed heated Recaro sports seats and color configurations for the steering wheel, transmission levers, and dashboard, among others. Land Rover Classic is also offering exterior enhancements, including a gloss-black radiator grille and a chopped-carbon-fiber bonnet script. According to Land Rover Classic director Dominic Elms, this expanded customization program is a response to customers wanting their classic Defenders to match the new Defender Octa visually. He noted that this demand “inspired our Works Bespoke team to work with innovative paint and material technologies to create the ultimate Defender pairing.” Land Rover Style Has Its PriceThese options aren’t limited to existing owners. Through the Works Bespoke program, customers can commission a fully restored Classic Defender built from donor vehicles produced between 2012 and 2016. Each build is fitted with a 5.0-liter V8 producing 400 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic, part of a transmission family also used in several high-performance models, including the Dodge Challenger. However, the price reflects the craftsmanship involved. A bespoke Classic Defender V8 starts at £190,000 (about $254,000 at current exchange rates), significantly higher than the new Defender Octa, which begins around $158,000 in the U.S. That’s roughly the same MSRP as a modern Porsche 911 GT3 RS – but for the right buyer, the appeal of a bespoke classic might speak for itself. Land Rover View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Waymo recently announced an expansion of its self-driving robotaxis into five more cities across the United States, including Dallas, Houston, and Orlando. That may be good news for commuters who want to get to their destination efficiently, but an incident in San Francisco this week shows that these robotaxis aren’t always better than having a human at the wheel. In a video that’s gone viral, two Waymo taxis struck each other, while a third one became involved in a robotaxi standoff that blocked the road completely. That wasn't the only unusual incident involving a Waymo driverless cab this month. Cul-de-Sac Stumps Waymo Robotaxis Chii_Rinna via Storyful The incident occurred on December 6, with two of the Waymo taxis making mild contact on what appeared to be a dead-end road. A third taxi coming from the opposite direction added to the chaos by apparently sensing the other two taxis and coming to a standstill. The three vehicles were then locked in a standoff that left onlookers bemused and other drivers frustrated, as the road became blocked. Waymo employees later arrived on the scene in an attempt to diffuse the situation and get the taxis moving again. The incident occurred just a few days before Waymo released a statement reviewing its year, saying that its robotaxis achieved a more than 10-fold reduction in serious injury or worse crashes when compared to human drivers. To be fair, nobody was injured in this San Francisco incident, but the event does demonstrate the limitations of self-driving technologies. This particular scenario—three taxis stuck in a dead-end road—is an unusual situation, and the tech simply couldn’t work out how to get the cars unstuck. Related: Waymo’s Driverless Cars Can Now Drive Themselves on Highways Not The Only Crazy Waymo Story This Month Waymo While the San Francisco crash isn’t the kind of press coverage Waymo would want, another story involving one of the company’s robotaxis had a distinctly different tone. As per NBC News, a pregnant woman in labor ended up giving birth in the back of a robotaxi when on her way to the hospital. Both mother and child arrived safely at the University of California San Francisco Hospital before emergency services could get to her. It’s very likely that, were it not for the efficient robotaxi, the mother would have been left without assistance for even longer. "We’re proud to be a trusted ride for moments big and small, serving riders from just seconds old to many years young," a Waymo spokesperson said. "We wish the new family all the best, and we look forward to safely getting them where they’re going through many of life’s events." The Waymo and Tesla Robotaxi Battle Continues Steven Paul Waymo and Tesla are both competing in the robotaxi space. While both companies tout impressive safety standards for their self-driving taxis, each has had a few worrying incidents. Tesla robotaxis have been involved in several crashes already, as widely reported earlier this year. In a heated exchange on X (formerly Twitter) this week, Tesla boss Elon Musk claimed that Waymo “never really had a chance against Tesla.” He made this statement when responding to Google DeepMind Chief Scientist Jeff Dean, who pointed out that Waymo has covered far more rider-only autonomous miles than Tesla. Whichever robotaxi company wins the war, let’s hope that there are fewer safety-related incidents than we’ve seen so far. Related: Rimac One-Ups Musk By Revealing a Fleet of Robotaxis Before Tesla Does View the full article

Flat track mad scientist Toshiyuki ‘Cheetah’ Osawa delivers a spicy Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 flat tracker as hot as the chili pepper it's named after.Peaking at 2.2 million Scoville units, the Carolina Reaper is widely considered the world’s hottest chili pepper. But it didn't get that way on its... View the full article

After over a year of back-and-forth litigation and a trial that lasted nine days, a settlement has finally been reached in the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports vs. NASCAR antitrust lawsuit. The two parties appeared outside the courthouse with 23XI co-owner Michael Jordan and NASCAR CEO Jim France standing shoulder-to-shoulder. They've also released a joint statement, which reads as ...Keep readingView the full article

A low-mile 2020 Lincoln Continental Black Label Coach Door Edition is up for auction on Bring a Trailer, giving bidders a rare shot at one of the last big American luxury sedans with rear-hinged “suicide” doors. Showing just 4,000 miles, the car is one of roughly 150 Coach Door Edition Continentals built for 2020 and part of an estimated 230-car total run that marked the end of Lincoln’s sedan era. It is being offered by a dealer in Moonachie, New Jersey, with a clean Carfax report and an open recall noted in the listing. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Stretch Wheelbase, Rear-Hinged Doors, Limo-Style Back SeatCoach Door cars start life as Continental Black Label sedans before going to Cabot Coach Builders in Massachusetts for conversion. The wheelbase is stretched by about six inches to open up rear legroom, and the conventional rear doors are replaced with long, rear-hinged coach doors that open a full 90 degrees. They use electronic latches and soft-close functions and can only be opened when the car is in Park. Inside, the rear bench makes way for two individual rear seats and a full-length center console, turning the car into more of a chauffeured limo than a typical three-across sedan. High-spec Continentals like this one share the same broad mission as classic American cruisers that came before them, from midcentury icons to later luxury coupes and sedans. Twin-Turbo V6 and Black Label ComfortPower comes from a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 rated at 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Adaptive suspension and power steering aim to keep the extra wheelbase feeling composed, while big wheels and all-season tires underline the car’s grand-touring role. Being a Black Label, this Coach Door Edition is fully loaded: 30-way heated and ventilated front seats with massage, individual heated and ventilated rear seats, a Revel Ultima audio system, SYNC 3 infotainment with navigation, a head-up display, and a full suite of driver-assistance features. In period, the Coach Door carried a price premium of around $40,000 over a standard Continental Black Label, pushing it into genuine flagship territory. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A Last Hurrah as Ford Pivots to SUVs and EVsLincoln no longer sells sedans in the United States, and its parent company is refocusing on crossovers, trucks and electric models. Ford is exploring new ways to remake its European lineup, and is even weighing whether to bring back familiar badges like the Fiesta as EVs. Against that backdrop, a short-run, coachbuilt Continental with old-school rear-hinged doors looks more like a time capsule than a template. If values of rare American luxury models keep tracking upward, this may be remembered as one of the last big American sedans built in the spirit of the classic town car. View the full article

BMW has added a fully electric luxury SUV to the Vatican fleet, handing a new iX xDrive60 with M Sport package to Pope Leo XIV. The handover took place at the Vatican with BMW CEO Oliver Zipse and BMW Italy president Massimiliano Di Silvestre in attendance, and is being framed as a showpiece for both the brand’s electrification push and the pope’s public support for climate action. In Italian-market spec, the donated iX is roughly a six-figure vehicle, but unlike a bespoke popemobile it remains a regular road-legal SUV that could blend into the broader fleet when it is not in the spotlight. A High-Spec iX With Plenty Of Power And RangeThe gift car is an iX xDrive60 M Sport, BMW’s large dual-motor electric SUV with all-wheel drive and more than 500 horsepower. In this configuration it can accelerate from a standstill to highway speeds in a few seconds while still offering hundreds of miles of range on a charge, depending on conditions. Fast-charging capability allows the battery to go from a low state of charge to a healthy buffer in well under an hour on a high-power DC charger, which matters even in a city-state as compact as the Vatican if the car is used for regular official trips. BMW is positioning the iX as part of its broader transition toward electric SUVs of different sizes, from compact crossovers like the upcoming iX3 to more traditional models such as the X3. Comparisons like the 2026 BMW X3 against the 2027 BMW iX3 show how quickly the brand’s mainstream lineup is being mirrored by battery-electric alternatives. Symbolism For BMW And The VaticanThe Vatican has already accepted purpose-built electric popemobiles from other manufacturers, but this iX is described more as a general-use vehicle for the pope and his entourage than as a custom parade car. It joins a small but growing pool of zero-emission vehicles used for day-to-day transport around Rome, reinforcing the message that high-profile institutions should be seen adopting cleaner technology. For BMW, the optics go beyond a single donation. The company has been highlighting its interior and design work on electric SUVs, down to details such as the light-colored steering wheel option planned even for base versions of the iX3. Putting an iX in papal service gives that design and technology a global stage, even if it spends most of its life doing quiet, low-profile duty between Vatican meetings. View the full article

INDIANAPOLIS (Dec. 11, 2025) – Heading into its 75th anniversary season, NHRA has announced the full category schedule for all racing classes that will compete in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series at NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series national events during the highly anticipated celebratory 2026 campaign. Along with the full category schedule, NHRA also announced purse increase payouts of nearly 15 percent at national events for racers in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as a 33 percent increase for Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car regional championship purses in each region. NHRA also released new logos for the seven NHRA divisions. The 2026 season opens with the 57th annual NHRA Gatornationals at legendary Gainesville Raceway on March 5-8, starting what will be the 75th season of racing in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock will race at all 20 events, while Pro Stock Motorcycle will appear at 15 national events in 2025. Racing in the highly-competitive Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car categories will take place at 13 races, including NHRA’s national event debut at Maryland International Raceway. Competition Eliminator will compete at 15 events, while Super Stock, Stock and Super Gas will all race at 19 national events, including South Georgia Motorsports Park and Rockingham Dragway, as each track will host its first NHRA national event in 2026. Super Street will be part of seven national events (Pomona 1, Charlotte, Epping, Norwalk, Seattle, Brainerd and Dallas), with Top Dragster racing at 16 national events in 2026. Top Sportsman will take part in 16 events as well. In the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, all four professional categories will race in all six events in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs. Callout races for all four classes will return next year as well, with the NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout taking place in Gainesville and the NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout thrilling fans in Indy. The GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star Callout will again happen in Norwalk, with the GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout taking place in Sonoma. The Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge will return in 2026, taking place at 13 regular-season events. The Super Stock/Stock Class Racing schedule will include races at Gainesville Raceway on March 13, No Problem Raceway on March 27, Firebird Raceway on May 16, Beech Bend Raceway Park on May 22, Brainerd International Raceway on Aug. 14, Indianapolis, Famoso Dragstrip on Sept. 26 and Maple Grove Raceway on Oct. 23. The full category schedule at national events is shown below. To view the 2026 schedule and for more information about NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com. *** About Mission Foods MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/ About NHRA NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The post NHRA RELEASES NATIONAL EVENT CATEGORY SCHEDULE FOR 2026, PURSE INCREASES FOR Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series CLASSES appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Due Already?Believe it or not, the current Mercedes-Benz S-Class is already five years old. Internally known as the W223, it made its (online) world premiere in late 2020 for the 2021 model year, and has received rolling updates since. Model life cycles are pretty predictable, and after four model years, it's now time for the flagship sedan to get a nip and a tuck. The facelifted S-Class was spied just a few weeks ago wearing, er, not-so-subtle camouflage. Well, it's not really camo if it grabs attention, right? SH Proshots/Autoblog Partially RevealedWeeks after it was spotted, Mercedes-Benz has published "official spy photos" of the new S-Class. Mercedes-Benz used the car to kick off its robotaxi pilot program in Abu Dhabi, though it's still wearing wraps on the front. Those autonomous taxis will soon hit the road in the Middle East, presumably after the car has been fully revealed sometime in the first quarter of 2026. The rear appears to have less camouflage, but Mercedes conveniently didn't take photos from that angle. That said, we do see the car wearing its production headlights. We see the three-pointed star LED signature, suggesting that it'll at least get new light clusters. We could also expect new bumpers and a grille. The same goes for the rear end, although the wheel options seem to be the same as before. 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: What to ExpectWhile the (covered-up) car has made a public debut of sorts, Mercedes-Benz isn't revealing any specs just yet. However, it's likely that most of the powertrain will be carried over, perhaps with a few updates to make it more efficient. That means a couple of turbocharged mild-hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and for European markets, diesels. With the company flexing its autonomous driving tech as luxury taxis soon, some of that could end up in customer cars. Nvidia is in the process of doing final touches to the car's level 4 autonomous system, making use of 9 radars, 1 lidar sensor, 12 ultrasonics, and 14 high-definition cameras. The MB.OS will also get a massive upgrade to allow for hands-free driving and more. Based on the spy shots, we're pleased to report that buttons are back in the S-Class. It is similar to the arrangement used in the CLA and GLB, and we're glad more cars in the Mercedes-Benz stable are getting it. The dashboard is also likely to get some tweaks, and it could be the same for the graphics in the infotainment system. SH Proshots/Autoblog SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

We’ve highlighted DD’s Speed Shop here on BANGshift for years, but one of the most talked about videos we’ve ever shared was the first of him plowing snow with his 1955 Chevy car. It’s happened a few times over the years, and people get really excited or really mad about it, and that just makes me laugh. Remember folks, snow doesn’t rust cars. Salted roads do. And also remember, it isn’t your car anyway. LOL I saw do what you like, because someone somewhere is going to bitch about it no matter what you do and the rest will either praise you or just not care! With all that said, what do you think? How well does the ’55 do with plowing snow? And do you think that plowing snow is ruining this car? Let us know in the comments below! Video Description: Its back! The Tri Five Snow Plow lives on! Now the opinions on this rig are always split. Some say its disrespecting a classic, others say we are using it to it’s fullest extent… and I’d have to agree with the latter. Listen- people drove these hot rods in all kinds of conditions back in the 50s, 60s and 70s: towing campers, pulling cars outta ditches, driving on salted roads. These cars were MADE for hard work, built for it. This is our way of keeping that spirit of these hot rods alive. The post DISRESPECTFUL OR AWESOME?! DD’s Speed Shop 1955 Chevy Snow Plow Gets Put Through It’s Paces Again In 2025! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The NHRA LIVE Stage is setup and rocking at the 2025 PRI Show in Indy. A familiar site at both the SEMA Show and PRI, it features your favorite NHRA TV and online hosts getting the scoop and interview drivers, crew chiefs, sponsors and more during the show hours of the PRI Show in Indy. And remember, we’ve got tons of photos to share with you all week as well as we’re on site running around shooting all the cool stuff to see, from cars to engines to parts and more! So tune in, watch the NHRA LIVE Stage coverage right here all week, and enjoy! The post NHRA PRI STAGE LIVESTREAM: Interviews, News, Rumors, And More From The PRI Show Stage In Indy! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Godzilla, ReimaginedNissan had a very limited, special edition of the R35 GT-R called the GT-R50, but it faced production woes due to factors like the pandemic. Out of the 50 planned units, only 18 were reportedly hand-built. Through FRAME, we get a look at how the team in Italy created these futuristic-looking GT-Rs a few years back. The GT-R50 was a collaboration between Nissan and Italdesign, an Italian coachbuilder founded by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who designed iconic models like the one-off Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Speciale. Celebrating the 50th anniversaries of both the GT-R (2019) and Italdesign (2018), the project may not have reached its full production potential, but the extremely limited numbers ultimately contributed to its ultra-rare and collectible status. Italian Design Blends With Japanese EngineeringThe team didn’t use machinery like big automated robots because the GT-R50 was already based on an existing R35 GT-R Nismo. Clay modeling allowed engineers to reshape the body more organically, giving the coachbuilt version a sleeker, more streamlined design reminiscent of modern EVs. The C-pillar area was also redesigned to improve airflow toward the rear, while the roofline was lowered by 54 mm (2.1 inches). Tools such as calipers, 3D scanners, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and micrometers were used to achieve precise dimensional accuracy during the build. As a proudly hand-built vehicle, the team shaped the body panels using traditional tools like hammers and chisels. The styling wasn’t the only thing that changed. Nissan also tweaked the 3.8-liter VR38DETT V6 engine to produce 710 horsepower and 585 lb-ft of torque, representing a 110-horsepower increase over the regular GT-R Nismo. That output bump was made possible through larger turbochargers, upgraded intercoolers, and strengthened internal components. FRAME on YouTube A Collector’s DreamAll of the Nissan GT-R50 examples were already sold before production began. Each carried a starting price of €990,000 (about $1.2 million), putting it in the same ballpark as coveted hypercars like the McLaren Senna and Ferrari LaFerrari. This year, the Japanese marque has officially ended production of the R35 GT-R after an 18-year run. Reports suggest that its potential successor could be an EV hinted at by the all-electric Hyper Force concept. But with the EV market currently experiencing a slowdown, that unprecedented version may not materialize anytime soon. FRAME on YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Maybe not the biggest jet show in history, but quite possibly the biggest one ever at Bradenton! Thanks to the staff at Bradenton Motorsports Park, and the Drag Illustrated Winter Series, fans of drag racing were treated to a show of epic proportions at this year’s Snowbird Outlaw Nationals in Florida. This was a huge event that had packed seats and pits with cars from all over North America putting on a hell of a show. And the jet cars wowed the crowds as part of this winter tradition in Florida. Check out the video below to see all the Night of Fire jet car action and let us know which one is your favorite! Video Description: Bradenton Motorsports Park put on the biggest jet show we’ve ever seen there with a huge fireworks spectacular to go alongside! Make sure you watch to the end for the crazy show when the last jet dragsters go down. The show featured the Hot Streak jet truck, Elaine Larsen’s jet team and two jet funny cars. Thanks to the venue owners Victor Alvarez and Cleetus McFarland for pulling out all the stops to make this the best Snowbird Nationals Night of Fire yet! Also thanks to Drag Illustrated for putting on yet another awesome Pro Modified race as part of their Winter Series and the World Series of Pro Mod. The post The Biggest Jet Show in History? Bradenton Motorsports Park Night of Fire 2025 At The Snowbirds Was Epic appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Ringbrothers debut some pretty awesome cars each and every year at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas and have been doing so for many years now. They do it right and are always pushing the envelope when it comes to fabrication and design. And while most of their cars have a theme, some of them are a bit more subtle than others. And I feel like in recent years they have embraced some of the details that some folks might miss in their builds. The 1969 Mustang that they debuted this year is one of those cars. For all the in your face changes, there is still a subtlety to this car in some ways. Which sounds weird when describing a Ringbrothers car, but it somehow resonates in this one. So when Larry Chen posted up his video of this car, and made the comment that James Bond would drive this car, we had to run with it. Check it out, and let us know what you think. Would James Bond drive this Mustang if he was American? The post If James Bond Was American, Would He Drive This Car? Ringbrother’s 1969 Mustang Takes Modern Engineering and 3D Printing Into Their Hot-Rodding Style appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Midsize Raptor That Somehow Reached the WestDespite the global nature of the automotive industry, certain models are still sold only in a specific region. This is done to spread production costs more efficiently. A slight downside to this is that if the region-specific model is so good, jealousy arises from those who don't have it. That is the case with the Ford Ranger Raptor, primarily built for the Asian regions to satisfy the performance pickup segment without the need to import the big-dog Raptor at a huge price. It became such a hit that it eventually made its way to America and Europe. Muted Models in EuropeAs we all know, America and Europe have very discerning and demanding customers, and the Raptor quickly became a hit in both territories. However, those in Europe find that the V6 engine lacks the necessary oomph. In America, the V6 makes 400 hp, while in Europe it makes only 292 hp. This is mainly due to filters to pass the more stringent emission standards in the Old Continent. This is where ZeroNine Design comes in. The tuning company is based in the UK and specializes in enhancing the performance of Ford models. Their latest project was to unleash more power from the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 of the midsize Raptor. ZeroNine was able to eke out around 100 more hp, bumping it up to 390 hp, almost matching the American spec. ZeroNine claims this modification improves Ranger Raptor's drivability, unlocking its true potential. Proper, Non-Intrusive ModificationOf note, ZeroNine's modification is actually non-intrusive (which is a plus), almost like an over-the-air update. According to the company, it only requires an OBD port and an app to perform the power upgrade. It can even be controlled in such a way that, should you want to retain standard power, you can, and can call upon the 100 hp extra when you feel like it. Those interested in this will be happy to know that the software upgrade was released only after extensive durability testing and is offered for Raptor models from 2022 onwards. The cost is 541.66 pounds, or around $722 with the current exchange rates. Not bad for a highly effective non-intrusive power upgrade. View the full article

A new episode from the Car Wizard YouTube channel shows how a routine coffee run turned into a roughly $700 repair bill for the owner of a 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia. The driver reportedly spilled coffee into the center console, right where the cupholders sit in front of the infotainment controller. Liquid seeped into the electronics, the main rotary knob and buttons stopped working properly, and the only real fix was to pull the console apart and replace the control module. It is a small incident that underlines how fragile some modern interiors can be, even as Alfa is still trying to sell itself on emotional appeal with enthusiast specials and limited series models that sit alongside its regular sedans and SUVs. How a Simple Spill Killed the ControllerOn the Giulia, the cupholders are positioned directly ahead of the infotainment control knob, which is mounted low in the console and houses a full electronic module underneath. When coffee sloshed out of the cup, it ran straight into the seams around the knob and buttons. That liquid can cause short circuits while it is wet and leaves sticky residue behind when it dries, so the controller started to misbehave and then failed outright. Giulia owners on forums have complained about the same layout for years, pointing out that one bad speed bump or a loose lid can send a drink right into the most sensitive part of the cabin. It is a very different kind of ownership worry than you would have in something like a classic open top Alfa, for example a tidy 1960 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider Veloce. Why the Repair Comes To $700The part that failed is not just a plastic knob but a complete electronic assembly. It includes the rotary encoder, several buttons and the circuit board that talks to the rest of the car. Alfa sells it as a single module, so once coffee has soaked the board and corroded or glued up the contacts, the realistic solution is to replace the whole unit. That means diagnostic time, partial disassembly of the console, swapping the module, and then reassembly and testing. With labor and parts, the Car Wizard says the owner was looking at a bill around the $700 mark, which fits with what other Giulia drivers have reported when center console electronics need more than a basic clean. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What it Says About Modern AlfasFor a brand that trades heavily on design and driver appeal, a layout that funnels drinks straight into a critical control unit is not ideal. Alfa is trying to balance that emotional pull with more practical products, from high performance models, to a new business plan that leans on compact crossovers. The company’s next big gamble is staying small to survive by focusing on SUVs like the Tonale and Stelvio, which means it cannot afford many stories about fragile daily usability. The $700 coffee is a reminder that in a modern Alfa Romeo, the way cupholders and electronics are laid out matters almost as much as how the car looks and sounds on a great road. View the full article

Volvo is not giving up on the U.S.In a new interview with Automotive News Europe, Volvo Cars CEO Håkan Samuelsson expressed that despite the hurdles that Volvo and the global car industry are facing, he believes that he could reverse its slowing sales numbers and return to growth in 2026, as it shifts and optimizes production of its fully-electric and plug-in hybrid models. However, the possibility of it happening largely rests on sales performance in a key market for many major automakers: the United States, where EV sales have been hampered by the effects of recent legislation targeting incentives tied to EV purchases. Samuelsson noted that while he anticipates the sales of EVs and other electrified cars to become more challenging, he is convinced that combustion cars won't fully regain their market share, as some Americans will be converted to electrified options. Betty Laura Zapata/Bloomberg via Getty Images "It will be difficult without the incentives, but on the other hand, you should be careful about believing that the market will go back to combustion cars. Why? Because people have underestimated a big advantage of having all-electric cars and long-range plug-in hybrids, which is that you can leave the garage filled up every morning," Samuelsson said. "With a long-range PHEV, you can drive in electric mode for up to 200 km, which is about 125 miles. You very seldom need more range than that in a day, which means the driving experience would be much like an all-electric car. The backup engine would very seldom kick in." Samuelsson told AutoNews that he believes electrified cars, such as plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and fully electric cars, are "a valid solution in the U.S." due to their convenience factor, adding that "a lot of people" have the capability of keeping such cars plugged in at their homes; something that could add another dimension of convenience for many motorists. "It’s true that BEV sales have dropped because so many people purchased their cars before the incentive ended. However, when we are through that process, I think people won’t just look for a combustion car. They will look into long-range PHEVs. That’s something I’m sure will happen," he said. Photo by Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images) Volvo saw a sales dip last month, but EV and PHEV sales stayed strongSamuelsson's remarks come shortly after the Swedish firm reported a significant decline in sales during November 2025. According to numbers released by the automaker, overall global sales for Volvo declined by 10% year-over-year, with 60,244 cars sold during the month. Sales were led by the midsized XC60 crossover SUV with 16,267 units, followed by the XC40/EX40, with 13,965 units, and the XC90 at 8,304 units. However, a more positive takeaway from the numbers is that Volvo's sales of electrified models, specifically its fully electric and plug-in hybrid models, accounted for 50% of its sales during the month. Fully electric cars like the EX90 and EX40 made up 24% of its total sales for the month, while plug-in hybrids accounted for 26%. In a statement, Volvo COO Erik Severinson noted that U.S. sales are softening following the phase-out of Federal EV tax credits back at the end of September, though its performance in the related segment is a positive in the brand’s eyes. “This performance underscores the brand’s momentum in the electrified segment,” Severinson said. “We are encouraged by the growth in sales of our fully electric cars and accelerated deliveries of the new XC70 long-range plug-in hybrid in China. This continues to expand our position in the rapidly growing electrified segment.” Volvo Volvo is leaning on its Chinese partner for PHEV and EV technologyIn September 2024, Volvo announced that it had abandoned its goal to become a fully electric car manufacturer, citing changing market conditions as the reason for retracting the commitment made only three years prior. “There is no long-term future for cars with an internal combustion engine,” former Volvo CTO Henrik Green said at the time. “We are firmly committed to becoming an electric-only car maker, and the transition should happen by 2030. It will allow us to meet the expectations of our customers and be a part of the solution when it comes to fighting climate change.” However, in his recent AutoNews interview, the current Volvo CEO noted that the company will maintain a diverse mix of its second-generation PHEVs and a lineup of fully electric cars for the near future, although it will work with a critical partner to bring them to market. "We will need this bridge technology until 2035 to 2040. But we will also have a really good lineup of BEVs by 2030. To have both options — and to do this in a smart way — we will look at what we can borrow from the Geely Group," he said. "That is what we did with the XC70. Now we are looking to expand the car to Europe. We have some ideas on how to do something similar in the U.S." Final thoughtsAlthough it may seem that Volvo has its plate full dealing with the fallout from the Federal EV tax incentives and slumping EV sales in the U.S., it is important to note that the Swedes have a more fundamental issue to address apart from its major investments in the electrified space. Recently, Volvo rolled out the XC70 in China, a plug-in hybrid crossover aimed to fill a significant hole in its lineup there. It boasts an electric-only range of 200 kilometers (124 miles) and a combined range of more than 1,200 km. When asked about the timeframe for the rollout of the XC70 long-range PHEV, Samuelsson noted that it is "working as fast as we can" to bring it to market, though it faces a major hurdle to get the vehicle to the European market, its first outside China. "We have to switch to Western-compliant electronics and software because it’s a no-no to use Chinese technology in Europe — or in the U.S," he said. "We also have to meet European safety and emissions standards." As for the United States market, the CEO says that building the XC70 in the U.S. "would be a long shot," adding that such an endeavor "would require a huge investment." Currently, it is focusing on bringing a plug-in version of the XC60 to the U.S., but he isn't ruling out any more vehicles for the U.S. market with the XC70's cool tech. "But of course, all our cars will be upgraded when it comes to performance, so I wouldn’t rule out us doing something with longer range. We will talk about this in more detail later." View the full article

We've been waiting more than three years for some meaningful information about the latest sporty middleweight from Moto Morini, the Corsaro Sport. Now it's launching in Europe.View the full article

A short-range hovercycle like the LEO Solo JetBike may not change commuting yet, but the technology behind it is laying groundwork for broader aerial innovation.View the full article

Fans will soon have access to these premium lids developed through a fresh licensing deal with the championship organizers.View the full article