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Three Doors DownHyundai is gearing up to revive the gasoline-powered i30 N, injecting excitement back into the global hot hatch scene. Yet once again, the United States is left watching from the sidelines. According to Autocar, the reborn i30 N is aimed squarely at markets outside America. For US enthusiasts, it is a familiar story. The original i30 N never came here either, despite its cult following overseas and its status as the car that launched Hyundai’s N performance brand. But there is a silver lining. The spirit of the i30 N has already lived on in America once before, in the Veloster N, a quirky three-door hatchback that shared its core mechanicals with the European original. The Veloster N became a surprise hero for American drivers who wanted a raw, engaging, front-wheel drive performance car. Its disappearance left a void, but Hyundai’s recent engineering moves suggest that void might not remain empty for long. Why We Miss Out, and Why That Might ChangeHyundai’s decision to keep the i30 N abroad stems from simple market math. Compact hatchbacks are niche sellers in the US, and electrification pressures in Europe pushed Hyundai to focus resources where demand is strongest. The brand retired the i30 N and i20 N in 2024, while emphasising high-performance EVs such as the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N. Many assumed that signaled the end of combustion for N models. Now, Hyundai is making clear that combustion will still play a role in its performance future, with hybrid assistance expected in the revived i30 N. That fact alone does not promise American entry, but it does hint at something more important. Hyundai is not done building engine-driven performance cars. And that opens the door for a new US-bound model that fills the space the Veloster N left behind. Hyundai The Veloster N: Our Best Clue for What’s ComingThe biggest reason for optimism comes from Hyundai’s recent development mule: a wild Veloster-based prototype that hides a brand-new high-revving combustion engine. They mounted it mid-ship for testing purposes, but its layout is flexible. The key detail is the mule itself. Hyundai chose the Veloster of all things as its test bed. This choice suggests Hyundai sees value in resurrecting the Veloster’s role as the US-friendly gateway to N performance. The brand does not test engines in old shells by coincidence. That makes this mule feel less like a quirky engineering experiment and more like a quiet signal that Hyundai is preparing a next-generation Veloster N or a Veloster-like successor that channels the same snappy, playful, daily drivable magic. What the World Gets and What We Might Get SoonAutocar spy shots from the British publication show that the facelifted third-generation i30 will debut next year, with the reborn i30 N expected by late 2026 or early 2027. Hyundai has already confirmed plans for seven new N models by 2030 with combustion, hybrid, and electric powertrains. That is a wide enough umbrella to fit an all-new small performance car tailored for the US. So while we once again miss out on the i30 N nameplate, the signs point to something equally exciting on the horizon. If Hyundai’s Veloster-based test mule is any indication, the next great N car for America may already be warming up. And if it captures the spirit of the old Veloster N, American fans could end up with a comeback that is more rewarding than getting the i30 N ever would have been. Hyundai View the full article

A Cadillac With an Italian TwistNormally, automakers tap coachbuilders to experiment with fresh styling, but that wasn’t the case with this Cadillac featured in the latest episode of Jay Leno's Garage. Owner Lee Carr brought in his exceptionally rare 1953 Cadillac Series 62, one of only two examples ever built by Italian coachbuilder Ghia. In the early postwar years, Ghia was eager to rebuild momentum after its factory had been destroyed in a wartime air raid. Looking to broaden its presence beyond familiar European marques such as Alfa Romeo, Lancia, and Fiat, the Turin-based coachbuilder set out to showcase its design approach to American buyers. To do that, the team shipped two Cadillac Series 62s from the U.S. to Italy and reworked them in hopes that General Motors would greenlight a full production run, but to no avail. Hitting the Jackpot With a Rare CadillacToday, the surviving pair belongs to Lee Carr and the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles. Carr shared that it was actually his wife who urged him to buy the Cadillac Series 62 Ghia after seeing it displayed at the Imperial Palace collection in Las Vegas. When the casino collection shut down, the custom Cadillac was shipped to Scottsdale for auction, where Carr purchased it. Despite its glamorous past, the car needed extensive work after spending years as a showpiece rather than being on the road. Carr said the body and paint restoration alone took two years, followed by another five years of mechanical sorting to make it roadworthy again. The two-seater coupe retains its original configuration, powered by Cadillac’s 331-cubic-inch V8, which Carr says makes 158 horsepower, but museum records from the Petersen list the output at 210 hp. It’s paired with a four-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission. He described the performance and handling as dull, which is expected for a car of its era, especially when compared with today’s entry-level Cadillac CT4, which already makes 237 horsepower. Jay Leno's Garage on YouTube Beauty, Not the BeastBut he emphasized that the car’s charm lies entirely in its design. According to him, people stop and stare to admire the styling, and he even recalls a police officer flashing their lights at him solely to get a closer look. The Cadillac was just one of several American projects Ghia worked on; Ghia also built the bodies for Chrysler’s experimental turbine cars. Although the original Turin coachbuilding shop no longer operates, the Ghia name lives on under Ford ownership. Jay Leno's Garage on YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Built to Take a BeatingEarlier this year, Ford stirred up plenty of buzz with the reveal of the Ranger Super Duty, thanks to its serious heavy-duty upgrades that set it apart from the rest of the lineup. So what’s behind the hype? Ford Ranger Super Duty supervising engineer Drew O’Shannassy breaks down what makes the ladder-frame chassis so special. In a video posted by automotive journalist Tony O'Kane, O’Shannassy explained that the Super Duty’s chassis carries over only one or two components from the standard Ranger, meaning it’s essentially all-new. The engineering team designed the reinforced steel frame to deliver greater capability, particularly for customers who rely on the Ranger as a true workhorse, such as farmers and emergency service operators. True Workhorse PartnerThe front bumper includes built-in mounting points for off-road accessories like auxiliary lights. Underneath, the frame is protected by bash plates for both the transfer case and the fuel tank, the latter expanded to 130 liters, allowing owners to stay out in the field longer with fewer fuel stops. Power comes from a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 producing 207 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. While a gasoline counterpart is available in the Ranger Raptor, a diesel mill is better suited for heavy-duty demands thanks to its strong low-end torque. Ford also upgraded the steering rack to handle the added weight and stresses of a truck with a 4,500-kg (9,921-lb) gross vehicle weight rating. The suspension features large lower control arms contributing to a wider 1,710 mm (67.3-inch) track width, O’Shannassy’s favorite detail of the build. At the rear, the truck retains a leaf-spring setup, not the plushest arrangement, but ideal for load-bearing and durability. Tony O'Kane on YouTube A Truck Down UnderOther notable specs include 18-inch steel wheels wrapped in 33-inch all-terrain tires, an 850-mm (33.5-inch) wading depth, and a rear driver-assistance technology bar that supports advanced features like parking aids, particularly helpful when towing. While all these upgrades sound enticing, especially in a midsize package, the Ranger Super Duty is currently available only in Australia and New Zealand. America has its own version of the Super Duty, but it refers to a line of full-size heavy-duty trucks, including the F-250 and F-350. Ford View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Ford is preparing for a long-awaited return to the compact car space. The Fiesta nameplate, retired globally in 2023 and years earlier in the United States, may soon reappear in electric form thanks to a new partnership with Renault. Ford has never explicitly said Fiesta EV, but with two compact Ford-branded electric models arriving in 2028 on Renault’s Ampere platform, the direction is hard to miss. The Fiesta could be heading back to showrooms, only this time with a charging cable instead of a fuel tank. Renault Partnership Sparks Two New Ford EVs Ford Renault Alpine After walking away from the Fiesta and Focus, Ford watched its mainstream footprint shrink, especially in regions where compact cars still matter. It seems Ford is now trying to rebuild that entry-level foundation. Ford’s new partnership with Renault gives it access to the Ampere EV platform, the same underlying architecture used in the famously fun-to-drive Renault 5 and Alpine A290. Two small Ford EVs have already been confirmed, both designed by Ford and produced by Renault in northern France. And since Renault has zero presence in North America, this arrangement gives Ford an opportunity to reintroduce a quirky, city-friendly model without overlapping the two brands. There’s also a broader market shift Ford can’t ignore: Demand for affordable, basic transportation is rising again, evident in the popularity of low-spec Ford Maverick trims. Customers have been flocking to the cheapest versions of that truck, proving that simple, budget-friendly vehicles still have a strong place in the market. If Ford wants to re-enter the compact segment with credibility, delivering something small, affordable, and efficient could be exactly the move buyers are waiting for. Mustang Mach-E and Capri Lessons on Heritage Ford Ford’s EV credentials are proven, and the Mustang Mach-E makes that clear. It delivers a competitive range, strong tech, and confident performance. The problem has always been the nomenclature. Using the Mustang name on an electric SUV upset purists who felt the model strayed too far from its roots. The same concern applies to the Capri revival, which resurfaced not as the sleek European coupe people remembered but as yet another electric SUV. That history raises an important question for the potential Fiesta EV. Would Ford stay faithful to what made the original great, or would the badge be stretched into something larger and less recognizable? With the Focus expected to return as an SUV, there is legitimate concern that the Fiesta could face a similar fate. Fingers crossed the upcoming Fiesta EV won't become a coupe-shaped crossover abomination that shares little with the small, playful hatchback people loved. A Fiesta EV Makes Sense, But Expectations Will Be High Ford More than 16 million Fiestas have been sold worldwide, and the model remains one of the most recognizable compact cars on the planet. It earned that reputation by being affordable, practical, and surprisingly fun, especially in ST form. A battery-powered successor makes sense for Ford, particularly as the automaker seeks to regain market share in the high-volume entry-level segment. What remains uncertain is how faithfully Ford will interpret the legacy. A Fiesta EV built on French hardware with a modern design brief could be exactly what the brand needs, or it could be a return in name only. And even if Ford gets it right, one big question still hangs over the entire project. Would the Fiesta EV actually be sold in the United States, or would North America miss out again while Europe gets another quirky electric car that America actually wants? View the full article

Modern Racing, the Mooresville, North Carolina–based race car technology, wiring, and fabrication powerhouse, has added respected industry veteran Billy Carroll as its new Director of Business Development. The move strengthens Modern’s rapidly expanding operation as the company prepares for a major milestone: exhibiting at the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show for the first time. Carroll brings decades of experience in sales, customer relations, and business development through various roles at some of the most influential manufacturers and service providers in the drag racing industry. In his new position, he’ll focus on expanding Modern’s customer network, nurturing existing relationships, and supporting the company’s growing list of racers, teams, and builders. “My primary role is new business development and customer relations,” Carroll said. “This will allow Justin [Elkes, Modern Racing founder and owner] to spend more time focused on new product development. I also plan to make sales calls and visit customers when attending events.” Elkes sees Carroll’s addition as a crucial step in the company’s continued evolution. “We’re thrilled to add an industry veteran like Billy Carroll to our growing team,” Elkes said. “His wealth of knowledge and experience will help us continue to serve our expanding customer base. Modern Racing truly has become a one-stop-shop for everything it takes to go drag racing, from the grassroots level to the top tiers of the sport. Billy will be a big part of continuing that mission.” Carroll’s arrival comes at an exciting time for Modern Racing, which has significantly expanded its in-house capabilities in recent years. The company can now build complete Pro Mod chassis, produces industry-leading wiring and electronics solutions, and offers comprehensive fabrication and race support services. Those capabilities will be on full display at the PRI Show, where Modern Racing will unveil a full in-house-built Pro Mod chassis and showcase its latest wiring, electronics, and fabrication offerings. The booth will also serve as the public debut for the company’s Signature Series “Plug and Play” Harness line. “Our Modern Racing product line will be on display at the PRI show for the first time this year,” Carroll said. “This was the best way to introduce our Signature Series ‘Plug and Play’ Harness line to those not currently familiar with what we have to offer or the quality of our craftsmanship. We install or provide harnesses for many professional teams and are now making this line available to chassis builders and racers that would like to install the kit themselves. Our motto is ‘Don’t worry about Wiring. Worry about Winning.’” With Carroll strengthening the front-end business and customer engagement efforts, and Elkes continuing to drive innovation on the technical side, Modern Racing is positioned for its most significant growth phase yet. The company will exhibit all weekend at PRI, giving racers, builders, and industry partners their first up-close look at Modern’s full suite of products and capabilities – and their first opportunity to meet Carroll in his new role. This story was originally published on December 10, 2025. The post Billy Carroll Joins Modern Racing as Director of Business Development first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Hagerty’s 2026 Bull Market List names 11 vehicles it thinks are poised to appreciate over the next year, focusing heavily on 1990s and 2000s “analog modern” performance cars that younger enthusiasts already love. The lineup runs from sub-$20,000 roadsters to seven-figure supercars, all evaluated in “very good” condition, and is meant to highlight cars that can still be driven regularly without destroying their value. For shoppers who spend weekends scrolling ads for everything from classic trucks to barely used Corvettes, it is a data-driven cheat sheet for what might be worth grabbing sooner rather than later. Modern Performance HeroesAt the newer end, Hagerty tips the 2006 to 2013 Chevrolet Corvette Z06, with its 7.0-liter LS7 V8 and huge performance per dollar, and the 2006 to 2010 BMW M5, the E60 sedan with a standalone V10 that feels more exotic with each passing year. At the very top sits the 2004 to 2007 Porsche Carrera GT, now averaging about $1.55 million and celebrating its 25th anniversary in the spotlight as an untouchable supercar that still reigns supreme. Youngtimer Favorites and Frbidden FruitFurther down the price scale, the 1999 to 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB) offers more power and refinement than the original with the same lightweight feel, while the 1995 to 1998 Volkswagen Golf GTI VR6 adds six-cylinder character to the hot-hatch formula. Hagerty also includes the 1995 to 1998 Nissan Skyline GT-R R33, a twin-turbo all-wheel-drive coupe whose Gran Turismo fame and late arrival under U.S. 25-year import rules keep demand high among younger buyers. These are the cars many new collectors grew up with on bedroom walls and game covers, and Hagerty’s data suggests their values are already responding. Trucks, SUVs and Classic IconsThe list is not all low-slung coupes. The 1990 to 1993 Chevrolet 454 SS pickup and 1981 to 1993 DodgeRamcharger tap into the muscle truck and classic SUV boom, offering big-block grunt or square-body charm at prices that still undercut comparable Broncos. On the classic side, the 1969 to 1972 Dodge Charger remains a muscle-car benchmark, the 1969 to 1972 Alfa Romeo GTV blends racing pedigree with sharp Italian styling, and the 1956 to 1957 Continental Mark II stands out as hand-built 1950s American luxury that Hagerty still considers undervalued. Taken together, the 11 picks show how the collector market is shifting toward later-model performance cars while still rewarding distinctive trucks and long-established icons. View the full article

When I was younger, customs like the MOD ROD didn’t really do anything for me, but as I’ve gotten older I dig them a bit more. In fact, at Holley’s Moparty in 2024 I ran into a guy with one of those acrylic bubble cars that he had built from scratch and everyone was slack jawed over it. Nobody could believe he had actually made the acrylic bubble in his own shop, and seeing everything else on it that looked like it had come from the Jetson’s was pretty cool. It gave me a different kind of appreciation for the wild customs of the 1960s and 1970s. Video Description: This time on Gearz, Stacey rolls in one of the most iconic show cars of the 1970’s, the MOD ROD. Follow along as he walks through what made this car so special then, and what keeps it special now. After that Stacey shows how to properly disassemble the cab or body of your project, and pre-fit some new components at the same time. It’s all about planning and it’s all on GEARZ! The post THE MOD ROD! This Wild 70’s Custom Show Car, Plus How to Strip a Truck Cab, On The Latest Episode of Stacey David’s Gearz appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

There were a ton of awesome cars and trucks at the 21st running of the Street Car Super Nationals in Las Vegas this year and I was in love with several of them. I can’t get enough of the awesome rides on hand each year and it is one of the reasons I love this event so much. The variety is great. But one of the cars that really stood out for me, and probably flew under the radar for many because of its sedate looks, was this killer Chevrolet Nova that had the look of steelies and center caps while running deep in the 4’s on the track. I love this car! It’s a real deal street car, weighing in at 4,000 lbs, and it hauls ass. Oh and it looks like a million bucks too! The best part is that it can be yours! Yep, it is for sale and you can check it out in two videos below. I would LOVE to own this thing, but it’s a bit outside my BANGshift budget, so I’m going to let someone else buy it and enjoy it. It’s not cheap, but you couldn’t build it any cheaper. This thing is rad. The highlights include a twin turbocharged 540, small tires on what look like steelies, beautiful paint, full interior, and so much more. Check it out below. Video Description: Take a detailed walk around the legendary LCR Shop Car “Side Chick”—now updated and better than ever! This street-titled Nova is packing a monstrous twin turbo 540ci Big Block Chevy, custom interior, and over 2,500 horsepower. Check out the upgrades since our last video and see why this beast is turning heads at every event. Key Features: Twin Turbo 540ci Big Block Chevy engine Custom interior Street legal and titled 2,500+ horsepower Recently updated from previous build Available for sale now! If you’re looking for a show-stopping, street-ready muscle car with extreme power, this Nova is for you. Interested in buying or want more details? CLICK HERE TO REACH OUT FOR MORE INFO Lucas takes the LCR Shop Car, known as “Side Chick,” to Las Vegas for one last adrenaline-fueled race. Watch as we push this 4000lb beast to its limits, aiming for a lightning-fast 4.59 seconds in the 1/8 mile! Experience the excitement of high-performance racing, behind-the-scenes moments, and the passion that drives our team. Will “Side Chick” make history on the Las Vegas strip? Tune in to find out! In this video: Final race of the LCR Shop Car “Side Chick” Attempting a 4.59-second 1/8 mile at 4000lbs Las Vegas drag strip action Exclusive driver insights and team strategy The post FOR SALE: This 2,500+ HP Twin Turbo Nova Was My Favorite Ride Of Street Car Super Nationals 2025! Full Walkaround – Lucas’ “Side Chick” Shop Car appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

For the Chinese IndustrialistWe’ve seen plenty of Chinese takes on European luxury cars, but none go as far as the Maextro S800. This is China’s answer to Bentley, Rolls-Royce, but more specifically, the Maybach S-Class. It’s certainly a bargain against its European adversaries, given that prices range between $100,000 and $150,000. Maextro You can tell how similar the exterior is to a Maybach with its dual-tone paint finish and the long silhouette, which, coincidentally, is proportionally similar to Mercedes-Benz’s flagship luxury sedan. The trick headlights and taillights feature a constellation/starry pattern, akin to the Koenigsegg Regera, but dialed up to eleven. Its 21-inch wheels are a direct copy of the Rolls-Royce Phantom and even include the floating hub cap. If you’re taking inspiration from something, might as well take it from the best. Lounge Seats, Refrigerator, and a Built-In ProjectorOn the inside, luxury is aplenty. Everything that you think is metal is metal. If it’s not, then it’s probably glass or wood. The steering wheel has a very Bentley-esque design, and the doors close automatically once you step inside and depress the brake pedal. The 43-speaker premium audio should deliver concert-like depth and clarity, but the experience is elevated with what is perhaps its standout feature—the massive 40-inch Huawei-sourced projector screen. Maextro Exclusive to the rear passengers, the device projects onto an area that doubles as a partition and a screen, which electrically drops down at the press of a button—no surprises there. The entire rear passenger section becomes isolated with blinds covering every nook and cranny where light might sneak through. But it only gets better. To ensure your viewing experience is nothing less than ideal, you have noise-cancellation at your disposal, in addition to a refrigerator and magnetized glass holders. Oh, and there is the Rolls-Royce-inspired starlight headliner, should you feel things are a bit plebian. On the powertrain side of things, you are given the option of a battery-only version alongside two range extender models. The EV packs a 97 kWh battery featuring a dual-motor setup with up to 523 horsepower, delivering close to 420 miles of driving range. Extender models make do with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a 65 kWh battery with either a dual-motor 523-horsepower setup or a tri-motor 848-horsepower arrangement, both capable of delivering a claimed range of well over 700 miles. View the full article

Tech YouTuber Marques Brownlee has spent plenty of time with American and European EVs, but his latest deep dive focuses on something U.S. buyers cannot get: the Xiaomi SU7 Max. The sleek Chinese electric sedan costs the equivalent of about $42,000 in its home market, yet Brownlee says it feels like a $75,000-plus car in terms of performance, software, and interior quality. His conclusion is clear. On product alone, a car like this would put serious pressure on a lot of mainstream and premium EVs sold in the United States. The catch is that it is effectively locked out of the market by tariffs and political worries over Chinese tech. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Inside Xiaomi’s $42,000 EVThe SU7 Max is the flagship version of Xiaomi’s first mass-market car, a fastback sedan with dual motors, all-wheel drive, and more than 600 horsepower. Brownlee highlights strong straight-line performance, calm high-speed manners, and cabin tech that feels closer to a high-end smartphone than a traditional infotainment system. He points to crisp graphics, fast responses, and thoughtful features that make familiar systems in many Western EVs seem dated. That level of polish is arriving from an automaker that has already shipped more than half a million EVs since last year, even though American shoppers will never get to drive one unless the rules change. Brownlee’s video adds a high-profile, hands-on endorsement to the idea that Chinese brands are closing the gap on established players very quickly. Tesla Would It Really “Cook” The U.S. Market?On paper, the SU7 Max lines up neatly against cars like the Tesla Model 3 Performance and higher-end European sports sedans. Xiaomi has already pitted hotter SU7 versions against Tesla in attention-grabbing stunts, including a 2,500-horsepower showdown where the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra races a Model S Plaid. Brownlee’s main point is that if a well-equipped, high-performance EV with this level of finish could really land near $40,000 in the U.S., it would reset expectations for what buyers get at that price. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Great Product, Tough PoliticsBrownlee also acknowledges what keeps cars like this out of American garages. The United States has steep tariffs on Chinese-built EVs, and policymakers are increasingly focused on data, software, and security risks from connected vehicles. Xiaomi is already learning that building competitive products is only one part of the story; a recent fatal crash has put design and safety under the microscope, with scrutiny of a door layout. Brownlee’s verdict is that the hype around Chinese EVs is real, at least when it comes to value and execution. For now, though, the Xiaomi SU7 Max is less a direct rival for American-market EVs and more a warning shot about how quickly the competitive bar is rising in countries that are open to Chinese brands. View the full article

A large part of what makes a Miata so special is Mazda’s dogged resistance to overkill. Decades later, today’s ND is still a small, athletic sports car with a modest four-cylinder mill. But it’s hard not to imagine what the MX-5 would be like with serious power. Well, we need not imagine any longer, as a company named Rocketeer from England has found a way to squeeze a 3.0-liter V6 into the engine bay of the tiny Miata NA, and the performance boost is also being applied to other generations of the sports car. But the modifications go far beyond that, and the result is a Miata turned up to eleven. Related: The Mazda Miata Is America's Most Fun Car—And Its Least Driven Meet The MX-5 ‘Keiryo’ Rocketeer Rocketeer’s vision for Project Keiryo is to keep the analog feel of the stock MX-5, but with a massive dose of power. Whereas the standard car makes just 181 horsepower from its 2.0-liter four-pot, this one will produce 370 hp from a modified version of Jaguar’s 3.0-liter ‘AJ30’ V6. A wet weight of just 1,874 pounds (a base Miata ND weighs 2,366 lbs in stock form) will give Keiryo a power-to-weight ratio that’s comparable to a Lamborghini Huracan V10, Ferrari F40, or McLaren 620R. It’s not clear how Rocketeer got the weight down so low, but it’s an impressive feat for a car that’s already known as a lightweight in standard form. We’re guessing luxuries like air conditioning have been tossed. Rocketeer states that a bespoke, hand-crafted restomod can take as long as a year, depending on customer requirements. According to Top Gear, the first of 10 Keiryo Miatas is being built now, with deliveries expected to begin early in 2026. Although the price is unknown, Rocketeer says on its site that full MX-5 restorations start from £75,000 (just shy of $100,000). The company also does turnkey sports cars, and these start from £19,995 (about $26,600). Related: Want to Buy an NA Miata? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Rocketeer’s Extensive Miata Experience Rocketeer has been building V6-powered MX-5s for years now. Back in 2020, an NB Miata with a Jaguar V6 went up for sale. This swap was also handled by Rocketeer, but unlike the upcoming Keiryo, that V6 produced just 220 hp. That’s still significantly more than a stock NB Miata, though. This model retained the standard five-speed manual, and Rocketeer’s kit made replacing the four-pot with the V6 surprisingly straightforward. As for the stock Miata’s future, one wonders what’s coming next. The current ND has been in production for over a decade now, which is a long time in the motoring world. It’s possible that a successor will receive hybridization, but Mazda must be careful not to inflate the car’s weight. Switching to a hybrid would also likely see the end of the manual Miata, which would be a travesty in the eyes of Mazda fans. Fortunately, in an interview with Road & Track earlier this year, Mazda's CTO suggested the next MX-5 will stick with a manual and a naturally-aspirated engine. We’ll have to wait to see what’s next for the tiny roadster, but in the meantime, Rocketeer’s Miata V6 looks like a ton of fun for those with the wherewithal to acquire one. View the full article

The winter testing season has begun, and several automakers have made the trek to northern Sweden to start evaluating their upcoming cars in some of the coldest weather on the planet, ensuring they're reliable in all conditions. One of those automakers is BMW, with its all-new, all-electric i3 sedan. Unlike the last model to wear that badge, which was a carbon fiber-infused supermini effectively used as a test bed for EV technology, this i3, like the iX3 that has already made waves, is BMW's proof of concept for the 800-volt, 500-mile Neue Klasse EV architecture, and it's expected to be as good as the benchmark in this vehicle size class, the 3 Series. And as these new spy shots show, it'll be a handsome thing. Production Headlights Show Up, but BMW is Still Hiding Bodywork SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article BMW was long known for double rings in its headlights, but as other automakers have adopted similar daytime running light motifs (ahem, Alfa Romeo Giulia), Munich has gone for the 'snake eye' slit approach. Housed in an angular cluster inspired by the Vision Neue Klasse concept, the front lights flow seamlessly into horizontal 'kidney grilles,' which are neither kidney-shaped nor grilles on this EV. The space between them draws the eye to the recessed hood, and on this prototype, this is still covered in some cladding. Lower down, the front fascia features a rectangular opening for radiator cooling. The profile of the car again appears to be nearly identical to that of the Vision Neue Klasse concept, and the rear of the glasshouse adopts a more traditional Hofmeister kink than current-generation G-series Bimmers. Related: BMW Quietly Teases Its Next Electric SUV Further back, a pert rear end with a subtle lip spoiler on the trunk gives the sedan classic proportions. While the bumper remains a development placeholder, the light shining through the camouflage indicates that the production taillights have been fitted, and it appears that these may not be nearly full-width elements like those on the iX3 or the aforemention concept; in fact, these lights look very similar to those on the F30 3 Series, with an upward kink at each end, but we'll have to wait for more camo to be removed before we can be sure what Munich has in mind. All-New i3 Arrives Next Year SH Proshots/Autoblog The i3 is expected to debut sometime next year, with production scheduled in Munich for the second half of 2026. Joining the new electric sedan will be a Touring, or station wagon variant, though it's unlikely that this will be offered in the States, at least not initially. And for those who still aren't ready to adopt silent motoring, a combustion-powered 3 Series with similar styling will also arrive next year. Keep an eye out for more spy shots of the hybridized 3er as BMW's winter testing program progresses. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

KTM's MotoGP team has remained adamant that it will continue racing in the series come 2027. But while it's already testing its new 850cc engine, its new owners have remained mum on the team's future.View the full article

Shoppers shift toward the cheapest versionsSticker shock has become a defining part of the new-car buying experience. With the average transaction price for a new vehicle hitting $50,080 in September, many Americans are simply priced out of the mid- and high-tier trims that automakers love to spotlight. Instead, a growing number are gravitating toward the least expensive versions on the lot, and few brands illustrate this shift more clearly than Ford. The company says interest in base trims surged across its lineup last month. Combined sales of three of its most affordable configurations—the Maverick XL, Ranger XL, and Bronco Sport Big Bend—jumped 26.4% year-over-year. That momentum isn’t a one-month anomaly either. Ford reports that year-to-date sales for these trims are up 12.7%, suggesting that buyers have been adjusting to their new financial reality for a while. Ford’s budget-friendly trucks lead the wayFord’s popular small pickup, the Maverick, shows just how powerful the affordability shift has become. Overall, Maverick sales climbed 43.3% in November, but the real growth came from the no-frills XL trim. Sales of that entry-level model jumped a staggering 76.2%, helping the compact truck set a new annual sales record with a full month still left in the year. Ford It’s a similar story for the Ranger. Sales of the midsize pickup climbed 35.8%, bolstered by a 48% spike in demand for the base XL version. For shoppers who want a truck without paying luxury-car prices, the cheapest Ranger is becoming an increasingly compelling alternative. Ford’s SUVs are seeing the same trend. The Explorer posted its best November since 2018, with more than 20,000 units sold—a 41.5% increase. The entry-level Active trim drove much of that success, soaring 60.7% from a year earlier. Even the mid-tier ST-Line saw big gains, proving that shoppers aren’t just avoiding the top trims—they’re clustering around the lower end of the lineup. Price fatigue and the EV slowdown reshape the marketFord credits part of its recent resilience to staying focused on affordability. While its overall November sales dipped slightly—down 0.9%—the broader U.S. auto market fell an average of 7%. In the process, Ford managed to grow its market share by half a percentage point. Getty Some of this shift comes from “price fatigue,” a phrase automakers are now using openly as many buyers balk at paying more than ever for new vehicles. The cooling of electric vehicle demand following the expiration of federal tax credits has played a role, too. With fewer incentives available, some buyers who might have considered an EV are instead opting for a cheaper gas model. Even affordable models aren’t immune to inflationThe turn toward entry-level trims doesn’t mean these vehicles are truly inexpensive—just inexpensive relative to everything else. Take the Maverick again. When it launched for the 2021 model year, it carried a headline-grabbing starting price of $19,995 before destination. Ford Today, that same truck begins at $27,145 before fees. That’s a $7,350 jump in a little over four years. Still, the Maverick remains America’s most affordable pickup, and with prices rising everywhere, that seems to be enough to keep demand climbing. Final thoughtsAs long as inflation remains sticky and buyers continue feeling squeezed, expect the surge in base-trim shopping to stick around. Automakers may love selling high-margin luxury configurations, but right now, Americans seem far more interested in getting the best deal they can. View the full article

New Era, Neue KlasseIn BMW parlance, Neue Klasse is a moment in the company’s history that saw seismic shifts. We saw the introduction of models such as the 1500, 2002, the Bavaria, and the E9 Coupe. It was then followed up by the Series models we now know today. The company has revived that term for its next-generation models, so we’re expecting to see huge changes in the coming years. The Neue Klasse revival has been kicked off by the iX3. No longer just an X3 with batteries to keep it going, the all-new model rides on a dedicated EV platform, and that’s just scratching the surface. Technology and design elements seen in the new EV crossover will eventually make their way to the rest of the range. That Steering WheelThe 2026 iX3 boasts a whole heap of innovations previously unseen in past BMWs. But, interestingly, the company is quite proud of one of the options it will soon offer in this model. That would be the white steering wheel. As it is, the wheel is a pretty bold design with its crosshair four-spoke design. A nod to pre-war models, perhaps? Either way, it makes a statement, whether one likes it or not. There's another wheel design for the M Sport models, but even that has its own unique look with spokes on the 4 o'clock and the 8 o'clock part. So, what's the big deal with the white wheel? According to BMW Blog, it will be an Individual option for all trims. Individual is the company's more bespoke options list, and it's open to all variants and all models. That way, it allows customers to personalize their specific vehicle. The availability of that white wheel to all grades means buyers will no longer be forced to go straight for the top-spec model if they want that look. What's just as surprising is the fact that the M Sport steering wheel will also be an option for standard models, just like in the past. That, we agree with, and we sure hope that will be the case for the rest of BMW's lineup. BMW BMW iX3: Other HighlightsSteering wheels aside, what are the other noteworthy things to be seen in the iX3? Well, what you won't see is the iDrive scroll wheel, and that will be the case for future BMW models. It's touchscreens from now on, just like, er, everyone else. Also, BMW got rid of the screen in front of the driver and replaced it with something called Panoramic Vision. Instrumentation is now at the base of the windshield and runs across the width of the dashboard. Lastly, there's the Heart of Joy central computer unit that not only handles powertrain, but also the advanced driver assists and the chassis. The BMW iX3 is currently available in Europe, with the US set to get it in Spring 2026. So far, it's doing well in the Old Continent, even outpacing the X3 in orders in its home market. BMW View the full article

Displays in cars have become overgrown, with many seeing them now as a detriment. Now, that same trend is coming to side-by-sides with Polaris' massive infotainment screen in its new RZR Pro R. View the full article

The HJC C71 delivers big performance at a small price, making it a strong contender for street and sport-touring riders.View the full article

Front Bench Seats Still ExistYou might not find them in cars anymore, but bench seats are still around. You'll have to take a look at full-size pickups to see them, though. Ford, GM, and Ram have those in their trucks, at least in entry-level or heavy-duty models. But can you find three-across seating outside of the world of pickups? Apparently, you still can. While fiddling around Chevrolet's configurator, we're glad to see that the Tahoe and Suburban for the 2026 model year still have that option. After checking the competition, we can safely say that those two are the only ones in class to have room for three at the front. Chevrolet It's Not Exactly a Bench, ThoughThe classic definition of a bench seat has a one-piece seat base, and sometimes, a one-piece backrest too. Later on, a split was added to make the driver's side independent from the other two seats. But in the case of the current Tahoe and Suburban, it's more like three individual seats side-by-side with each other. It's actually the same as the ones used in the Silverado and GMC Sierra. It employs a 40:20:40 design, and the center seat has its own base. Still, you can seat three people at the front of a Tahoe or Suburban, bringing the total occupant capacity to 9. That's something the last two generations didn't have. Adding the front seat actually saves you $250. When not in use, the backrest can be used as a center console with cupholders and a storage bin. Mind you, it's only available in the entry-level LS trims for both, and it's a challenge to find one in stock. We tried looking around online for one, but came up empty. We're genuinely curious about the uptake, though. Chevrolet Other SUVs With Three-Across Front SeatingIf the Tahoe and Suburban are too big, there's the Land Rover Defender, which actually comes standard. That means you can fit eight people in it with a 3-3-2 arrangement in the stretched-out 130 version. Another noteworthy mention is the Hyundai Palisade, which offers a 9-seater option. Hyundai made it possible for owners to drive their Palisades in bus lanes in Korea. It's not available in the US, though, and it's unknown if it will even be offered stateside. While uncommon in America, the bench seat is still alive and well in most parts of the world. European utility vans still have them, as do some pickups in Asia. It still has its purpose, but mostly for commercial use. Chevrolet View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Honda was knocked off the top-earning motorcycle brand in the US by Kawasaki. Team Green crushed the competition, and I have a theory as to why.View the full article

MV Agusta’s new strategy looks to introduce cheaper models that could boost stability or spark controversy.View the full article

A Fresh Start After Theta IIWhen the Genesis GV80 was launched around five years ago, it came with a new 2.5-liter turbocharged Smartstream four-cylinder, effectively replacing the troubled 2.4-liter Theta II in Hyundai Motor Group's lineup of power plants. The latter had become infamous for recalls, oil consumption complaints, and sudden failures, so, on paper, the new motor looked like a clear improvement. Known internally as the G4KR, the 2.5-liter Smartstream makes 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, numbers that comfortably move the GV80 without feeling strained. It also came with modern updates like dual injection, using both port and direct injectors to improve efficiency and reduce carbon buildup. Reliability, however, was a mystery – something that owners will attest to after years of ownership. There was a previous recall tied to fuel pump issues across Hyundai Motor Group products, though it wasn't specific to the four-cylinder Smartstream. For one GV80 owner, however, that uncertainty became real when their engine locked solid at just around 30,000 miles. Inside the Prematurely Locked-Up EngineAs always, our favorite engine CSI, I Do Cars on YouTube, initiated this engine teardown. On the stand, the engine was completely seized, refusing to rotate in either direction. From there, the teardown took an unexpected turn. The valve cover came off to reveal an extremely clean valvetrain, with healthy-looking cams, rollers, and timing components. The timing chain system looked almost new, and there were no signs of oil starvation up top. Pulling the cylinder head didn't change much. The pistons showed no valve contact, the combustion chambers looked even, and bore wear was present but not extreme for the mileage. The oil filter was nearly spotless, with no obvious metallic debris. It wasn't until the teardown reached the bottom end that the real damage surfaced. The connecting rod bearings had catastrophically failed. Several were effectively welded to the crankshaft journals, completely locking the engine. Once the rods were disconnected, the crank would finally turn. The damage pattern was consistent across cylinders and unmistakable. I Do Cars/YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article A Simple Human MistakeUnfortunately, this teardown shows that the engine problem wasn't due to a design flaw. The rod bearings evidently failed without the typical signs of prolonged oil starvation, and the upper engine remained largely untouched. That strongly suggests the engine was started and run without oil, possibly after an oil change in which the engine was drained but not refilled before start-up. Preventing this kind of failure comes down to the basics. Oil refills during service should always be checked by verifying oil pressure after maintenance, and don't assume a warning light will save an engine in time. Modern engines can destroy themselves in seconds without lubrication. In this case, the Smartstream 2.5 looks fundamentally sound, but even good hardware can't survive a simple human mistake. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

An engine control software issue could cause the engines in these bikes to stall at low RPMs, increasing the risk of a crash and/or injury.View the full article

It's good to have dreams, but sometimes they carry a higher MSRP than we can handle. But do they have to? That depends on if you're a gambler.View the full article

Subaru's First FWD SUVWith the exception of the BRZ, every Subaru you'll purchase in the US comes with all paws running. That includes the Solterra EV, which, like the BRZ, was developed with Toyota. Subaru is now breaking that AWD tradition with the introduction of the Uncharted – its new entry-level EV that's priced right and specced right despite not having a symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system like other Subaru SUVs. The key headline here is price. The 2026 Subaru Uncharted starts at $34,995 for the Premium FWD trim, making it the cheapest EV in Subaru's lineup and undercutting the Solterra by over $3,000. The Sport and GT trims are priced at $39,795 and $43,795, respectively. Obviously, the Uncharted Premium FWD, despite the name, isn't off-road flex or a halo EV. It's a practical, city-friendly electric crossover aimed at buyers who care more about range and affordability than trail ratings. Subaru says this version will be sold in limited numbers, acknowledging that AWD is still the brand's comfort zone, but the option is finally there for shoppers who don't need it. Subaru Familiar Shape, Cleaner DetailsVisually, the Uncharted feels like a close cousin of the Toyota's C-HR, and that's not accidental. It's shorter than the Solterra, more compact overall, and a little tidier in its proportions. Ground clearance still sits at a Subaru-like 8.2 inches, so it doesn't abandon the brand's outdoorsy posture, even if its mission is more urban. Inside, the cabin leans modern and tech-forward rather than rugged. A 14-inch touchscreen dominates the dashboard and comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru EyeSight, a distraction mitigation system, and a power rear liftgate are all included across the lineup. Even the base Premium FWD gets dual wireless phone chargers, a digital key, ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control. Step up to the Sport and GT, and the Uncharted leans more upscale. StarTex upholstery, a 360-degree camera system, traffic assist features, memory seating, and larger wheels help justify the price jump. The GT goes further with a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, and exclusive two-tone paint options. Subaru Competitively Priced Against RivalsThe powertrain lineup is straightforward. The front-wheel-drive Uncharted produces 221 horsepower and delivers more than 300 miles of estimated range, which is the big payoff for skipping AWD. The Sport and GT use a dual-motor setup with 338 horsepower, Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and X-Mode, with range dropping to around 285 miles and 270 miles, respectively. All versions share a 74.7-kWh battery, an 11-kW onboard charger, and a 150-kW DC fast-charging limit. Subaru claims a 10 to 80 percent charge in under 30 minutes under ideal conditions. The standard NACS port means Tesla Supercharger access from day one. Against rivals like the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV, the Uncharted holds its own on power while staying aggressive on pricing. Of note, the 133-hp Kona Electric starts at $32,975 with an EPA-estimated 200-mile driving range, while the 201-hp Kira Niro EV offers up to 253 miles at $39,600. Comparing the numbers, we'd say the Subaru Uncharted is a pretty good deal. Toyota View the full article

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